7 Best Disney Restaurants for Adults You Have to Visit

Are you trying to figure out what are the best Disney restaurants for adults?

Over the years, I have discovered that one of the biggest misconceptions when it comes to Walt Disney World is that it’s just for families or for children. This is how so many adults miss out on the fabulous opportunities here, especially when it comes to dining.

Little known fact that families can hire sitters to watch their kids in the hotel rooms while the parents go out to eat for some solo time.

For solo travelers or couples who decided to experience the magic for themselves without the kids, no need to worry. But then remains the important question,

Where should we eat and not be surrounded by kids?” Have no fear!

I am a major foodie and have dined at quite a few Disney Dining options on property that are especially wonderful for adults and have a variety of Dining styles.

Walt Disney World for Adults with Cinderella Castle in the Florida Sun. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

What to Expect on This Disney Food Guide

Because I will be exploring the entire Walt Disney World property, I will be hitting an assortment of restaurants in all four parks, Disney Springs and Resorts that range from Buffet to fine dining.

This is to be able to showcase every style that Disney has to offer and to give options to the unique tastes of solo travelers and not just mine.

ORDER NOW to secure your ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY DISNEY TICKETS!

My Top 7 Picks for the Best Restaurants in Disney World for Adults

For the purpose of this guide, I will be narrowing it down to 7 best Disney restaurants for adults. The options on this list were chosen due to their ability to cater to the older audience as well as price, atmosphere, overall experience, etc.

1. Skipper Canteen at the Magic Kingdom

This list doesn’t go in any particular order except by Parks, Disney Springs and resorts. We are starting off in the beloved Magic Kingdom with probably an unexpected choice, Skipper Canteen.

Disney Magic Kingdom Adventureland Skipper Canteen Menu. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Located a little way across from the attraction that inspired it, The Jungle Cruise, in Adventureland, it serves up African, Asian and Latin cuisines to guests!

How’s that for adventure in one of the most magical places? It is underrated but worth the experience.

Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom with classic rides such as Jungle Cruise and Skipper Canteen

Dining Options at Skipper Canteen

The skippers of the Jungle Cruise have opened their headquarters to you and are sharing some of their favorite dishes that feature steak, pork, fish and chicken!

Skipper Canteen Menu Options Display Magic Kingdom Food. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Only the best for the visitors who traveled down the Nile to this tropical outpost. Since we are all friends here, this place gives you a great atmosphere of relaxing with friends with the puns of the Jungle Cruise.

Skipper Canteen Designs withthe Society of Explorers and Adventurers. disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

It’s very immersive and fun with some nods to the members of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers for my hardcore solo travelers.

Best Dishes at Skipper Canteen

Be sure to consider these dishes upon your visit:

  • Perkins Thai Noodles
  • “Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork
  • Sustainable Fish
  • Dr. Falls Signature Grilled Steak
  • Falls Family Falafel
  • Kungaloosh!

Pricing at this Disney Restaurant

For casual dining, it’s a “get what you pay for” kind of deal. Portion sizes are decently sized and will fill you up! Depending on the type of food and drinks you get, it can range from $10 to $45.

Skipper Canteen Fried Chicken Photo Copyright Disney Co. disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Dish: “Tastes like Chicken” Because it is! Photo Copyright Disney Co.

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

The atmosphere is full of hidden mickeys and gems that guests can search for in the 3 dining rooms. You are immersed in the continued experience of the attraction with quirky and fun host and hostesses to add to the punny experience.

Disney Magic Kingdom Skipper Canteen Entrance next to menu Adventureland. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

It’s very relaxed and great for Solo Disney travelers that love nods to the past. They have an excellent variety of drinks as well that you should try.

Disney Magic Kingdom Adventureland Skipper Canteen Entrance

If you are open minded and want to take your taste buds on a journey without going to Animal Kingdom, this one of the best Disney restaurants for adults!

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

2. Mama Melrose’s at Hollywood Studios

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano was one of my very first Disney Parks restaurants that I visited and its one of my favorites.

Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano Hollywood Studios. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

It’s a bit hard to find but its tucked in the very back of the Grand Avenue area of Disney’s Hollywood Studios near Muppetvision 3D.

Muppet 3D Vision at Hollywood Studios

Its location means it’s usually not too busy and its casual but colorful atmosphere is welcoming while giving that California flair. Making it one of the best Disney restaurants for adults.

Dining Options at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano

You will find some super yummy, not to be missed dishes such as a variety of familiar pasta dishes, like Mama’s Italian Pasta and Classic and hearty Spaghetti and Meatballs.

They also serve up steak and vegetarian options. Here are some more favorites!

  • Shrimp Campanelle
  • Oven Baked Chicken alla Parmigiana
  • Crispy Calamari
  • Margherita Flatbread
  • Traditional Canolli

Pricing at This Disney Restaurant

One of the reasons I come back to this restaurant is its pricing. Food and drinks range from $8-$50 altogether which isn’t bad for a filling lunch or dinner.

Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano Menu in Disney Hollywood Studios. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

It has great options for kids who are picky and the alcoholic drinks I have been recommended each time never miss!

Mama Melrose Ristorante Italiano Disney Photo
Mama Melrose Ristorante Italiano Photo Copyright: Disney

One I tried was available over at Italy Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase so I’m grateful to my hostess who helped me be able to bring my experience home with me.

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

If you are a sucker for Disney’s backstories for their locations, you’ll love this one. A young aspiring actress from a Sicilian village moved to Hollywood but soon discovered her calling was for cooking instead!

Mama Melrose Menu at Disney Hollywood Studios. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

She took her papa’s recipes and opened up a place in a backlot warehouse once used to store film equipment. Soon she was serving up her Hollywood friends and the Hollywood elite who dubbed her “Mama Melrose.”

You will appreciate the warm and welcoming theme inside and you are treated like family every time. The comfort food combined with its excellent pricing is bound to treat you right.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

3. Tiffins Restaurant at Animal Kingdom

This restaurant sparked attention when it opened as the first high end dining establishment in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. It laid it roots on the pathway towards Pandora-World of Avatar and is another on this list that was inspired by adventure and exploration.

Tiffins Restaurant Entrance at Animal Kingdom. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Tiffins Restaurant Entrance at Animal Kingdom

The theme thrives in the Latin, African and Asian dishes that will make your taste buds explode in a gorgeous palette of flavor you probably have never experienced.

While there isn’t a dress code to attend this place, it is indeed a fancy and classy place to dine while visiting and it shows in its artwork.

Tiffins Animal Kingdom Wagyu Beef White Wine and Broccoli. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Tiffins Restaurant White Wine with Juicy Beef Short Rib at Animal Kingdom

You will feel as if you are dining with imagineers who worked on Animal Kingdom as you gaze upon paintings, sculptures, photo collages and even actual notes and field sketches from the people who worked on the park within its 3 stunning dining areas.

Joe Rohde has been known to host dining expeditions here during earth month. Making it one of the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Dining Options at Tiffins

Similar to Sana’a at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Bread service is never to be skipped. Try the wild side with the charred octopus and North African Spiced Tofu among others that will tempt you as much as they intrigue.

Tiffins Animal Kingdom salad. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Top Dishes on the Menu at Tiffins

  • Surf and Turf
  • Butter Chicken
  • Tamarind Braised Short Rib
  • Gobi Manchurian
  • Lobster Mac and Cheese
  • South American Chocolate Ganache
  • Jen’s Tattoo
  • Lamu Libation

Pricing at This Disney Restaurant

With this being a high-end restaurant, you should expect to pay a bit more, so if you aren’t really willing to try new or different dishes, you may want to try elsewhere.

Tiffins Restaurant Exotic Animal Dining Room at Animal Kingdom. disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Tiffins Restaurant

Food and Drinks together will have your bill at about $25- $75 depending on what you order. This is also factoring in if the 21 and older crowd orders from the specialty wine list, which I recommend you do!

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

If you are a fan of Joe Rohde, you’ll be excited to know he had a hand in the creation of this restaurant. The location is easy to find and you are guaranteed an excellent, unique meal.

Tiffins Animal Kingdom entrance room with Cast Members. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

The atmosphere fits in perfectly with the theme of Animal Kingdom and is perfect for adults due to its range of wine selections, tranquility and views.

Guys, if you want to impress your date, hint hint with this option. This place is on par with others of its kind such as Citricos or Shula’s.

Tiffins Animal Kingdom Dining Room. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

The combination of romance and thrill-seeking adventure will be memorable for your party and your mouth.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

4. Teppan Edo at Epcot

Japan Pavilion is one of the most popular locations to visit in World Showcase. The land of the rising sun has fascinated travelers for decades and for good reason. Japan is known for its delectable dishes and traditional style.

Epcot Japan Pavilion View from atop the Mitsukoshi restaurants. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Epcot Japan Pavilion

At Teppan Edo, you get dinner and a show as your meal is cooked by professional Japanese chefs at your table.

If you’re an extrovert and a solo traveler, this is a perfect way for you to meet new people while you dine over authentic dishes.

Best Japanese Restaurants in Epcot Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining Sign. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Let’s see what kind of foods are in store for your visit!

Dining Options at Teppan Edo

Signature Dishes at Teppan Edo are made even more enticing as the skillful chefs create onion volcanoes, Sushi like the popular Ueno and Nihonbashi combinations, as well as Steak, Chicken and Fish.

Epcot Japanese Restaurant Teppan Edo chef cooking hibachi. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

I have to suggest you try some sake while you’re there for a truly authentic time if you’re 21 and older.

Top Dishes on the Menu at Teppan Edo

  • Volcano Roll
  • Filet Mignon
  • Salmon
  • Ebi
  • Tori
  • Mango Mousse
  • Matcha Tiramisu

Pricing at This Disney Restaurant

As you can only do dinner here, the prices are higher than normal. This is also due to the experience with authentic and traditional Japanese style dishes and dining.

Epcot Japan Pavilion Mitsukoshi Restaurants Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

You can expect food and drinks to start at $6 and can go as high as $100 plus depending on if you partake on add-ons, which features wagyu beef for $79.

Normally, I have paid no more than $75 here with an appetizer, entrée and beverage.

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

This is probably the closest you will get to actually dining in Japan! It’s truly a fun, exciting good time with scrumptious food. What really should entice you is the drinks such as my favorite Tokyo Sunset and Japanese Breeze.

Tokyo Dining Restaurant in Epcot Japan Pavilion Violet Martini. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Violet Silk Martini in Japan Pavilion

It’s also another awesome date night spot which can be paired with dining packages that will allow you special seating for the nighttime shows on World Showcase lagoon. Making it one of the best Disney restaurants for adults!

Read: 7 Best Restaurants at Epcot that You MUST Try

5. The Edison at Disney Springs

Have you ever watched or read “The Great Gatsby” and wished you could experience the glamorous parties that ensued in the story? This is where The Edison right in the heart of Disney Springs comes in!

The Edison at Disney Springs Entrance

You are truly in for a spectacular combination of casual dining, luxury, and industrial, Gothic style experiences!

It sounds like none of this would blend well together and yet this place pulls it off magnificently. On some nights, the entertainment will transport you to the 1920’s with its electric company style architecture and music.

Loaded Fries at Disney Springs The Edison. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Loaded Fries at Disney Springs The Edison

On top of that, it has a wide variety of options to choose from when it comes to food which will bring you back to try something new every time.

Dining Options at The Edison

The Edison has a great selection of appetizers, salads, burgers, sandwiches, pasta dishes, desserts and specialty alcoholic beverages to choose from! While the theme caters to adults mostly, it even has some great choices for kids too!

The Edison at Disney Springs Happy Hour Hours with Stiff Bourbon Drink. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

There is so much to choose from, I will just share the popular items on the menu.

Top Dishes on the Menu at The Edison

  • Eletric-fries
  • DB “Clothsline Candied Bacon”
  • Tesla Shrimp Cobb Salad
  • The Edison Burger
  • Beyond Burger
  • Menlo Park
  • Mahi Wrap
  • Triple Chocolate Voltage Cake
  • Cherry Cheesecake Trifle

Pricing at This Disney Restaurant

Prices for dishes and drinks are reasonable which is awesome for a night on the town. They range from $9 to $24.

The Edison at Disney Springs Happy Hour Menu. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

However, you can spend up to $60 if you get a specialty drink and dessert too which overall isn’t terrible, especially when you get over the top, toe tapping entertainment too.

Hipster Power Tip: Visit during Happy Hour to get half-off selected drinks and appetizers!

Why Should You Visit This Disney Restaurant

This restaurant, since its debut, has been recommended to book in advance and for good reason!

The unique combination of unusual aspects allows for a once in a lifetime experience which lends an excuse to dress up in fashions of the era to have a great time with friends.

The Edison at Disney Springs Outdoor Entrance. disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

The Cast Members and entertainment amp up the almost adrenaline feeling of the 1920’s with luxury theme and Gothic, industrial architecture while allowing you to feel like you’re not breaking the bank with its casual style dining menu.

Happy Hour in Disney Springs. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Happy Hour in Disney Springs

Its menu also allows you to be able to have numerous options and not feel boxed in to just a selection of the average chicken, fish and vegetarian options you can sometimes see.

6. Ale and Compass Restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club

As a native to a seafood town, it was inevitable that a seafood restaurant would end up on this list. Located perfectly at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, this restaurant matches the theme of the resort and a truly amazing place to unwind and relax while recharging the body.

Yacht Club Resort Walt DIsney World. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Yacht Club Resort at Walt Disney World

The establishment will remind you of New England with its lighthouse charms and classic seafood dishes.

Dining Options at Ale and Compass

Another casual dining restaurant that will make you feel like New England royalty with dishes such as Truffle fries with roasted shallot mayonnaise, the sustainable catch of the day, Roasted Garlic Shrimp, Pappardelle Pasta with Shrimp , Jumbo Lump Crab Cake and warm apple cobbler.

Yacht and Beach Club Resort Walt DIsney World Ale and Compass Lounge. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

Is your mouth watering yet? Tip from a Marylander: ask them to put Old Bay on your chicken or fish dishes.

Top Dishes on the Menu at Ale and Compass

  • New England Seafood Pot Pie
  • Brick Lemon Herb Half Chicken
  • Bacon and Vermont Cheddar Burger
  • Mango Torte Spiced Lemon Pound Cake
  • Chipotle Barbecue Chicken Flatbread
  • Blackened Sustainable Fish Tacos
  • Maine Lobster Roll

Pricing at this Disney Restaurant

With this place in particular, I focused on the lunch and dinner menu as the breakfast menu is pretty standard but still worth visiting.

Dinner at any Walt Disney World restaurant tends to be higher but it usually has more food options. In this case, it’s the opposite.

Ale and Compass Restaurant at Disney. disney restaurants for adults
Photo Copyright: Disney Co.

Lunch is the better option as it has more food variety and the prices are better. Food and drinks range between $6.50 to $20, which is majorly reasonable and perfect for a relaxing break from the parks with an enjoyable, filling meal.

Yacht Club Resort Walt DIsney World. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

You can expect to pay between $45-$60. I personally have paid no more than $50 due to splurging on an appetizer or alcoholic drink.

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

This is one of the few places on property that allows you to enjoy mouthwatering seafood dishes that won’t break the bank. It’s in a very lovely resort, which will allow you to explore a bit and maybe even see if it’s worth staying at on your next visit.

Yacht and Beach Club Resort Walt DIsney World Pool Section. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Yacht and Beach Club Resort Walt DIsney World Pool Section

Everything from the food to the atmosphere is extremely comforting and perfect for some nautical photo ops. Making it one of the best Disney restaurants for adults!

Ready to start planning your next Disney World vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!

7. California Grill

I simply had to finish this list with what I consider the best that I have had to date, which is saying something as it beat out some other favorites like Sana’a and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto.

Disney Magic Kingdom Lagoon overlooking Contemporary Resort

Located at the very top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort and offering up extraordinary views of Disney’s Magic Kingdom, lies California Grill.

Disney Contemporary Resort with giant Christmas Tree in the front

It’s true to its name with its pacific coast inspired décor and architecture. You will take a private elevator to the 15th floor to be introduced to vibrant flavors of sushi, seafood and American dishes in an onstage kitchen.

This is one of the ultimate places to experience signature dining with equally signature views.

Dining Options at California Grill

You will get the best of the best when it comes to Californian cuisine here combined with a true melting pot of international flavors, just like the culture of the state itself. Making it one of the best Disney restaurants for adults!

Dragon Roll Tempura Shrimp at California Grill Restaurant. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.
Photo Credit: Disney Co.

The menu also changes seasonally to match the changing of seasonal items from the state so you can experience a unique specialty dish every season. Mouthwatering sushi, pasta, pizza, ravioli and more await you.

Top Dishes on the Menu at California Grill

  • California Combination Roll
  • Braised Beef Short Rib Wontons
  • Oak Fired Filet of Beef
  • Plant Based Truffle Selezione Pasta
  • Black Grouper
  • Poulet Rouge Chicken
  • White Chocolate Crème Brulee
  • Warm Valrhona Chocolate Cake
  • Blueberry Lemon Drop Martini

Pricing at This Disney Restaurant

I will be transparent; this is probably the priciest restaurant on this list. You should expect to drop around $100 for your experience here.

California Grill Disney Photo. disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

In Terms of price, Dishes and drinks range from $16- $60 but the quality of the food combined with the luxurious experience makes it truly unforgettable.

Theme Park Hacks at Your Finger Tips. Plan your next vacation with the latest tips and tricks on the ThemeParkHipster App. Download Today!

Why You Should Visit This Disney Restaurant

You cannot beat an experience like this, especially during a Halloween or Christmas party night where you essentially get treated to a free firework show.

Disney view from California Grill
Photo Credit: Disney Co.

You are given the VIP experience from the elevator ride up to when you leave the resort. The food is magnificent tied with that rich, cultural pacific coast ambiance.

It is important to note that this is the only restaurant on this list with a dress code which can be found here from the Walt Disney World Website:

“Guests are asked to adhere to the minimum dress code requirements at this Signature Dining experience. Dressier attire is also welcome.

Please explore the minimum dress code requirements: Men must wear khakis, slacks or dress shorts and collared shirts. Jeans may be worn if in good condition. Sport coats are optional. Women must wear Capri pants, skirts, dresses or dress shorts. Jeans may be worn if in good condition.

Not permitted are tank tops, flip-flops, swimsuits, swimsuit cover-ups, hats for gentlemen, cut-offs, torn clothing and t-shirts with offensive language and/or graphics.”

Recommended: Get More Disney Food Reviews and Tips here!

Final Thoughts on the Best Disney Restaurants for Adults

One of the biggest parts of planning your Walt Disney World trip is where you will be dining, so it’s a given to research the best places to get a one-of-a-kind experience with food to match.

You’re paying a lot of money so you want to get your money’s worth. With the places I shared in this list, whether you want casual dining or a signature dining, you will get the best that Disney has to offer as far as food, ambiance, and theme.

What are the magic best disney restaurants for adults. Keep reading to learn about the best Disney World restaurants for adults.

What’s one of the best Disney restaurants for adults to you? Let us know in the comments section below!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

Victoria Wade Disney Writer at ThemeParkHipster

About the Author

Victoria is a professional solo traveler here to make your solo trips as stress free AND enjoyable as possible for you.

She has over 5 years of Disney and Non-Disney travel experience and was featured by POPSUGAR as one of the Top 50 Black Disney Creators you should follow.

She is a Proud Native to Baltimore, Md but always will call Disney World home. You can find her at Disney Tea with V.

UP NEXT: Is Disney’s most expensive restaurant worth the price? Read the full review of Victoria and Albert’s here!

(Original Article Date: September 14, 2020/Updated by Editor on July 29, 2022)

Share this article!

Leave a Comment