Foodie Paradise: The 5 BEST Restaurants in Downtown Disney You MUST Try in Anaheim!

Do you want to try food from some of the BEST restaurants in Downtown Disney?

Well look no further!

When it comes to dining at the Disneyland Resort everyone knows about the restaurants inside the park, but there are also some fantastic places to grab a bite to eat at the Downtown Disney District.

In fact, you likely walked by some of them on your way to the theme parks if you’re staying at one of the official Disneyland Resort hotels.

The Downtown Disney District is a small shopping, dining and entertainment complex the connects the main theme park plaza to the resort hotels.

While it’s not nearly as large as its Orlando counterpart, Disney Springs, it does still pack a punch in the dining department.

These are my top five best restaurants at the Downtown Disney District.

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1. Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes

After a long day in the parks or as a break from the hustle and bustle of Main Street U.S.A. nothing sounds better than a thick juicy burger and an over-the-top milkshake.

For those over 21, the restaurant even serves local beer brewed right in Anaheim. This makes it one of the best restaurants in Downtown Disney.

What meals are served at Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes?

Currently Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes serves lunch and dinner. Hours do vary based on the day of the week and the season, so be sure to check the times before heading there.

Here are a few of the most popular items on the Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes’ Menu:

• THE GREG NORMAN: 1/2 pound wagyu beef burger, house buttermilk-dill, blue cheese, arugula
• WAGYU STEAKHOUSE BURGER: wagyu beef, pepper-jack cheese, bacon, crispy onions, A1 sauce, roasted garlic mayo
• BLACK TAP BURGER SALAD: Prime Burger, American Cheese, Bacon, Lettuce, Tomato, Pickled Onion, Cucumber, Pickle, Scallions, and a side of Special Sauce tossed in House Vinaigrette of Olive Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar
• CRISPY CHICKEN CAESAR SALAD: crispy chicken, lettuce, moroccan spice roasted tomatoes, shaved parmesan, croutons, side of caesar dressing
• KOREAN BBQ WINGS: sweet & spicy bbq, scallion, sesame seeds, lime, served with house buttermilk-dill dressing
• MEXICAN HOT SAUCE WINGS: spicy hot sauce, blue cheese crumbles, scallions, served with blue cheese dressing
• CRISPY CHICKEN SANDWICH: buttermilk coleslaw, cilantro, fresh lime, spicy mayo, Korean bbq
• THE CAKESHAKE®: vanilla frosted rim with rainbow sprinkles topped with a funfetti cake slice, whipped cream, rainbow sprinkles, whipped cream & a cherry
• BAM BAM SHAKE™: vanilla frosted rim with fruity pebbles topped with a fruity pebbles rice krispy treat, strawberry pop-tart, laffy taffy, whipped cream & a cherry

Is Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes open for late night dining?

Currently, Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes is not open for late night dining. The latest the restaurant is open is 12 a.m.

Are discounts offered at Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shake?

The restaurant does offer discounts to Magic Key holders. So, if you’re a part of the program, be sure to take advantage of this discount.

Are reservations needed for Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shake?

Reservations are highly recommended for Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes.

The restaurant does fill up quickly on weekends, but they may be able to accommodate some walk-up seating outside.

My foodie recommendations for you:

The menu for Blacktap Craft Burgers and Shakes is the same for lunch and dinner so there’s no need to worry about a special burger being on one menu versus the other.

My favorites from the menu are the fried pickles with house made buttermilk and dill dipping sauce, and the Mexico City burger which is piled high with pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, onion rings and chipotle mayo.

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2. Naples Ristorante e Bar

Have a pizza party just down the walkway from Disneyland Park at Napes Ristorante e Bar.

The large restaurant is known for its wood fired pizzas, house made pastas, and decadent Italian desserts.

Whatever you order at Naples Risorante e Bar, you’re sure to enjoy it.

What meals are served at Naples Ristorante e Bar?

Naples Ristorante e Bar is open for lunch and dinner, with the delicious Italian menus being the same for each service.

Here are a few of the most popular items on the Naples Ristorante e Bar Menu:

• Panzerotti: includes Fried Pizza Dough filled with fresh Mozzarella, Ricotta, and Parmesan, served with Marinara
• Quattro Formaggi: fresh Mozzarella, Fontina, Provolone, Parmesan, fresh Tomatoes, Basil
• Pollo alla Parmigiana: Breaded Chicken, Tomato Sauce, Mozzarella, Parmesan, and Spaghetti with Marinara
• Lasagna: Baked Eight-Layer Pasta with Meat Sauce and Béchamel Sauce, topped with Marinara
• Purple Garden: Empress Gin, Elderflower Liqueur, Lemon Juice, Simple Syrup

Is Naples Ristorante e Bar open for late night dining?

No, the restaurant is currently not open for late night dining. Currently, the last seating is at 9:30 p.m.

Are discounts offered at Naples Ristorante e Bar?

Yes, if you’re a Magic Key holder, then you can get 10 percent off of your bill at the restaurant.

Are reservations needed for Naples Ristorante e Bar?

Reservations are highly recommended for Naples Ristorante e Bar.

If you don’t have a reservation, you can try to sit outside or order the same food from the to-go window next door.

My foodie recommendations for you:

In the past, I have always start with the aracini, which are saffron risotto balls with sausage ragout and tomato sauce.

Then order a Quattro Formaggi pizza where size is determined by the amount of people with us.

The pizza is topped with fresh mozzarella, fontina, provolone, and parmesan cheeses, fresh tomatoes, and basil.

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3. Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio

If you’re looking for a classy spot with plenty of New Orleans and Southern flair consider Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio (formerly known as Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen).

Dishes are all served with a side of southern hospitality and a bit of a kick from creole seasoning.

You’ll also love the charming Louisiana traditions come to life in the food, music and decor!

What meals are served at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio?

Lunch and dinner are both served at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio. Whatever time you dine you won’t be disappointed.

Here are a few of the most popular items on the Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio Menu:

• Gumbo Ya-Ya: Andouille sausage, roasted chicken, holy trinity, simmered with Creole seasonings in a rich dark roux thickened broth, served over green onion rice
• Gulf Coast Poutine Fries: French Fries, White Cheddar Cheese Curds, Gumbo Ya-Ya
• Pasta Jambalaya: A New Orleans favorite and Jazz Kitchen signature dish! Gulf shrimp, andouille sausage, roasted chicken, Creole seasoning with spinach fettuccine
• NOLA BBQ Shrimp & Grits: Gulf shrimp simmered in a “New Orleans” barbecue sauce with roasted garlic, lemon served over andouille sausage-parmesan grits
• Blackened Chicken “Mac & Cheese”: Applewood smoked bacon, caramelized onions, oven roasted tomatoes, baby arugula, penne pasta, smoked gouda cream sauce, rosemary garlic ciabatta bread
• Bananas Foster Glazed Beignets: Banana rum icing, cinnamon sugar dust caramel drizzle, vanilla bean creme anglaise
• Chocolate Blackberry Mint Julep: Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Muddled Blackberries, Angostura Chocolate Bitters, housemade Mint Simple Syrup

Is Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio open for late night dining?

Sort of. The restaurant closes at 10:30 p.m. on weekends, which is the perfect time to order a basket of beignets after leaving the parks.

Are discounts offered at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio?

Yes, Magic Key Holders and Disney Vacation Club members are privy to discounts at the restaurant.

Are reservations needed for Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio?

Reservations are recommended here, especially on the busier weekend days.

However, you can often get seated quickly without a reservation if you choose to dine during off-peak times or right when the restaurant opens.

My foodie recommendations:

The food at Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio’s is quite eclectic and is inspired by New Orleans cuisine.

To start I love the Gumbo Ya-Ya, which is served with andouille sausage, roasted chicken, the trinity, simmered with Creole Seasonings in a rich, dark, roux-thickened broth and served over Green Onion Rice.

The BBQ Shrimp and Grits is a good choice for a hearty lunch or dinner, and don’t forget to order a basket of beignets to share.

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4. Céntrico

If you’re craving Mexican food, then head to Céntrico where south-of-the-boarder flavors are highlighted.

The restaurant is known as the brainchild of Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán who offers a uniquie twist on this traditional cuisine as seen through the incredible menu and world-class tequilas.

Making it one of the best restaurants in Downtown Disney.

What meals are served at Céntrico?

Lunch and dinner are both served at Céntrico which makes it a great place to take a break or end your day filled with fun adventures at Disneyland.

Here are a few of the most popular items on the Céntrico Menu:

• Guacamole: fresh Creamy Avocado, Pico de Gallo, Queso Fresco, Tortilla Chips
• Chicken Taquitos: four lightly fried Corn Tortillas, Marinated Chicken, Sour Cream, Queso Fresco, Salsa Verde, Avocado
• Quesabirrias: fresh Corn Tortilla, Lamb Birria, Oaxacan Cheese, Avocado Mousse, Cilantro, Red Onion
• Mexican Street Corn: local fresh Corn, Epazote, Garlic Aïoli, Chili Powder, Lime Juice
• Tlayuda: crispy Corn Tortilla, Black Beans, Queso, Cecina, Chorizo, Avocado, Radishes, Pico de Gallo, Salsa Macha
• Burrito Norteño: Braised Short Ribs, crispy Oaxacan Cheese, Pinto Beans, Tomatillo & Chile de Arbol Salsa, Sour Cream, Queso Fresco, Avocado

Is Céntrico open for late night dining?

Yes, Céntrico is open for late night dining. This Downtown Disney restaurant is open until 11 p.m. on weekdays and 12 a.m. on the weekends.

Are discounts offered at Céntrico?

Yes, both Magic Key holders and Disney Vacation Club members get a discount at Céntrico (this can change at anytime).

Are reservations needed for Céntrico?

Since it’s new, you should do your best to snag a reservation, but there may be walk-up availability throughout the day.

My foodie recommendations:

Some of my favorite dishes at Céntrico include the Tlayuda with crispy corn tortilla, black beans, queso, cecina, chorizo, avocado, radishes, pico de gallo, salsa macha and it’s made without gluten!

If you’re really hungry, then get the Burrito Norteño which comes with braised short ribs, crispy Oaxacan cheese, pinto beans, Tomatillo & Chile de Arbol salsa, sour cream, queso Fresco and Avocado.

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5. Ballast Point Brewing Co.

For a taste of the California lifestyle head to Ballast Point Brewing Co. The restaurant is located right next to Wetzel’s Pretzels and is a California-based craft brewer that serves classic American dishes such as burgers, salads, and more.

The beautiful views of Downtown Disney is enough to add it to your Disney foodie list.

What meals are served at Ballast Point Brewing Co.?

Lunch and dinner are both served at Ballast Point Brewing Co. Please note that breakfast is not served at this location.

Here are a few of the most popular items on the Ballast Point Brewing Co. Menu:

• Ahi Poke: Crispy fried Calamari Rings, Tomato Basil, Relish, Parmesan, served with spicy Calabrian Marinara and Lemon
• Steak and Eggs: Marinated Asada, bp Cheese sauce, Queso Fresco, Avocado salsa, Pico de Gallo, Chili Lime seasoned Tortilla Chips, Micro Cilantro
• BP Smash Burger: 1/2lb. patty, American Cheese, Shredded Lettuce, Tomato, Grilled Onions, BP special Sause, Sesame Bun
• Blackened Fish Tacos: Blacked Mahi Mahi, Blended Tortilla, Cabbage, Pico, Queso Fresco, Avocado Salsa, Side of Tortilla Chips
• Flying Embers ‘Pineapple Chili’: juicy Pineapple with a hint of Ginger and a subtle refreshing, Chili finish

Is Ballast Point Brewing Co. open for late night dining?

Yes, Ballast Point is open for late night dining. This Downtown Disney restaurant is open until 10 p.m. on weekdays and 11 p.m. on the weekends.

Are discounts offered at Ballast Point Brewing Co.?

Yes! Magic Key holders are eligible for a discount at this Disney restaurant.

Are reservations needed for Ballast Point Brewing Co.?

Yes, reservations are recommended and can be made up to 60 days in advance.

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My foodie recommendations:

When there’s a smash burger on the menu I ALWAYS order it, and the BP Smash Burger at Ballast Point Brewing Co. it is a 1/2lb. patty with American cheese, shredded lettuce, tomato, grilled onions, BP special sauce in between a sesame bun.

You can also add avocado, an egg and bacon it you want to take this dish to the next level!

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Final Thoughts on Choosing the Best Restaurants in Downtown Disney (Anaheim)

As you can see, there are so many fun and unique places to eat in the Downtown Disney District. Before you go remember that:

• Many of the restaurants at the Downtown Disney District also offer first come, first served bar seating. If you can’t get a reservation, this is a good option for dining as well.
• Dining at the Downtown Disney District is also easy if you’re staying at one of the onsite hotels, where you can order to-go meals and eat them on the balcony of your hotel room.

I hope this guide helps you on your foodie quest at Disneyland Resort. In the meantime, be sure to follow our YouTube channel for more Disney trip planning tips!

Now that you know what the best restaurants are in Downtown Disney, let us know what your favorite spot is in the comments section below.

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

(Original Article Date: February 14, 2022/Updated by Editor on May 21, 2024)

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