Signature Dining at Walt Disney World

When one thinks of Walt Disney World, fine dining isn’t typically the first thought that comes to mind. But believe me when I say that some of the best meals that I have ever enjoyed have been on Walt Disney World property. While my family has not been to all of what Disney calls the Signature Restaurants, we have been to several, and they truly offer exceptional service, food, and ambiance. Let’s take a closer look at a couple of the Signature Restaurants and what makes them so wonderful!

(My gorgeously-presented dessert at Citrico's at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

Back before my son was born, my family and I would really be able to linger and enjoy our nightly dinners when we traveled. Nowadays, we travel with a toddler, who accompanies us to dinner each night, and so we often find ourselves spending a little less time at meals than we have in the past. However, when we dine at Signature Restaurants, we still find ourselves spending a few hours enjoying our meal. If you have a child who you do not feel would do well in this kind of situation, then have no fear- there are several Childcare Clubs (separate fees apply) at WDW resorts where you can take your child to have some fun while you dine. The clubs are located at Animal Kingdom Lodge resort, Yacht & Beach Club resort, the Polynesian Village resort, and the Dolphin resort. Since I have not used these clubs before, I cannot give much information, but if you are interested in this option, I would call Disney well ahead of your trip to inquire about these clubs for your child.

(My son enjoying his gelato at Citrico's at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

If you are on the (standard) Disney Dining Plan, please be aware that a Signature Restaurant will require two table-service credits to dine here. I have written previous posts about how I feel regarding the use of the dining plan for Signature Restaurants, however, my thought is that if you are on the free dining plan, go ahead and use those two credits per person! If my family is paying out-of-pocket for the dining plan, then we always pay cash for our Signature dinner. But your opinion may vary, and that’s fine!

(My husband and our son enjoying the incredible view from California Grill at the Contemporary Resort)

Our most recent Signature Dining experience was at Citrico’s at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. I just love the Grand Floridian- as the flagship resort of Walt Disney World, it’s an absolutely gorgeous resort, and the general vibe of the resort is that of pure luxury. Citrico’s offers a Mediterranean-influenced menu, and as a result, I was hesitant to book here, as my family is not big on Mediterranean food. Our last visit occurred during Hurricane Matthew, and due to the park closures, we missed out on two nights of dining. Rather than letting credits go to waste, we chose to book a Signature Restaurant the day we checked out of Caribbean Beach Resort, and Citrico’s had an opening at the time of day we prefer to eat dinner (around 7:30pm). Since the menu featured filet mignon, which almost everyone in my family loves, as well as key lime pie, my father’s favorite dessert, I figured Citrico’s just might be a winner for my family. Was I ever right! Our server Kiera was attentive, knowledgeable, and friendly, the atmosphere was delightful, and the food was simply outstanding. At one point, my son was sitting on my lap, and I only had a fork within my reach, so I attempted to cut my filet with a fork, and it cut. When you can cut a piece of beef with only a fork, you know it’s a great cut of meat! We all loved our meal here, and I have absolutely no doubt that we will be back!

(The beautiful interior at Citrico's at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

Citrico’s Top Drink: The Salted Caramel Manhattan- there are no words to describe it, it was THAT delicious!

(The Salted Caramel Manhattan at Citrico's)

Citrico’s Top Appetizer: The flat bread changes seasonally, but my husband and I shared a truffle flatbread, and it was out of this world. I look forward to trying more seasonal flatbreads here!

(The seasonal flatbread being offered in October 2016 at Citrico's)

In 2016, my family dined at California Grill at the Contemporary Resort twice, and as a result, we were given a nice ‘Welcome Back’ card the second time that we ate there this year. That really started our California Grill experience off on a sweet note last month. But the best part of the California Grill experience has to be the view. California Grill is located high atop the Contemporary Resort, and after check-in at the California Grill podium, you and your family are whisked up on a private, staffed elevator to the top of the Contemporary Resort, where one of the first things you will notice is the incredible view of the Magic Kingdom. If you time your dinner right, you may be treated to a fireworks show as you dine, but if not, have no fear- you can bring your receipt from earlier in the day back to California Grill to gain access to the exclusive rooftop viewing area adjacent to the restaurant. As is common with most Signature Restaurants, everyone in my family loved their meals, and wishes to return again. The fireworks were late the night we ate there, 10:00pm, but we took our time at dinner and finished just as they were about to begin. The Hallowishes Halloween fireworks show was really the icing on the cake to a wonderful meal!

(My family enjoying dinner at the California Grill high atop the Contemporary Resort)

California Grill Top Drink: Wine! The wine list here is EXTENSIVE, and there is a wine to suit every taste and budget served here. Be sure to check out the wine cases in the waiting area, as they really are impressive!

(My parents checking out the waiting area of California Grill)

California Grill Top Dessert: My favorite dessert at any Disney restaurant is served here- the warm banana fritters with a trio of dipping sauces! The fritters are reminiscent of little donuts, and the dipping sauces are all amazing- you’ll be glad you tried this delightful dessert!

(My spectacular dessert at California Grill!)

There are multiple other Signature Dining Restaurants which my family has tried, and others that my family wishes to try. If you are looking for a great dining spot in Epcot, look no further than Le Cellier, which specializes in steaks in the Canada pavilion. Please be aware that this is an extremely popular restaurant, and reservations tend to go quickly. Within walking distance of Epcot is Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club Resort. This was not a favorite of my family, but perhaps we just went on an off night, as I continuously hear wonderful things about it on other Disney blogs and websites. Flying Fish Café is the Signature Restaurant located at the Boardwalk Resort, and though my family ate there many years ago, I cannot remember much about it (though you can’t really go wrong with dinner and a stroll on the bustling Boardwalk!)

(Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club Resort- photo from www.disneyworld.com)

In the Magic Kingdom Resort area, Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is another family favorite, and is the only Signature Restaurant where you can use your dining plan for filet of beef AND lobster when you order the Surf and Turf dinner. This restaurant is located on the water, and offers a gorgeous view of Cinderella Castle. At the nearby Wilderness Lodge, Artist Point features Pacific Northwest favorites amid spectacular water views.

(The impressive interior of Artist Point Restaurant at Wilderness Lodge Resort- photo from www.disneyworld.com)

There are several other Signature Restaurants located throughout Walt Disney World, and I highly recommend that you check out at least one on your next WDW trip. Six Deluxe Disney Resorts, plus each park except the Magic Kingdom have at least one Signature Restaurant. Disney Springs also has multiple Signature Restaurants to check out, all with different theming and types of food!

(Doesn't this duck entree look mouth-watering? Photo of an entree at Tiffins at Animal Kingdom from www.disneyworld.com)

I hope you have enjoyed reading all about some of my favorite restaurants at Walt Disney World! As always, if you have any travel-related questions, please feel free to email me at dana_aimee@hotmail.com. Happy Travels!