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5 Most Underrated Disney World Restaurants

By Jade Monzo, Owner, Rope Drop Travel March 9, 2021

180 days. That’s how far in advance you need to have your dining reservations made! Most travelers will have heard of the staple Disney World restaurants, like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Be Our Guest or Chef Mickeys. These are always highly sought-after reservations, nearly impossible to get if you don’t make them as soon as your 180-day window opens. But there are other awesome restaurants and dining experiences that seem to fly a little more under the radar. While it can still be difficult to snag a table at some of the places below, some first-time guests don’t even know about them to have the chance! Others are easier scores, but I still highly recommend ALWAYS making a reservation when possible. 

Read below to find 5 restaurants you may not know too much about!

5. Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre, Hollywood Studios
Talk about Atmosphere! Disney doesn’t play around with this one, and many Disney-goers don’t truly know the unique experience Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre offers. The restaurant is literally a theatre, with a huge screen in front of the restaurant. Each “table” is a car, offering “front” and “back” seating. The restaurant actually stays relatively quiet, so you can hear the movie on screen! Menu offerings include burgers, salads, and sandwiches with some yummy appetizer options as well. 


4. Tony’s Town Square, Magic Kingdom
As a New Jersey resident, my family’s standard for Italian fare is above average. Reluctant at first, we soon realized we made the right choice. Your meal starts with bread (which is required before any good meal! 😉), followed by several pasta, chicken or meat options. We find this to be the best Italian meal we’ve had so far at WDW!  The restaurant is focused on Lady and the Tramp and sits right on Main Street. A great lunch option before a day in the park, or dinner option on your way out! 


3. Nine Dragons, Epcot
Everybody loves a delicious Chinese dinner. And that is exactly what Nine Dragon’s is! Large portions and a gorgeous interior are just two reasons Nine Dragons is one of my family’s favorites. It is one of the only Chinese restaurants in Disney World, which can be a nice changeup for those taking longer trips! It is also a participating restaurant for Disney’s Candle Light Processional during the Holidays.


2. Boma, Animal Kingdom Lodge
Serving both breakfast and dinner, Boma is a great option for those seeking more of a low key meal, not including characters or antics. Breakfast as an array of options including creative spins on french toast and other favorites. Dinner offers an African themed menu with several options on rotation. Boma also gives you the opportunity to visit the gorgeous and unique Animal Kingdom Lodge.  Make sure you head out to the smores making available outside after!


1. Maya Grille 
Hands down one of the most delicious restaurants for Mexican-inspired cuisine in Disney World, you’ll never have a problem obtaining even a last-minute reservation. Head over to the newly refurbished Coronado Resort for a meal at this restaurant during your next stay!


Jade is the owner of Rope Drop Travel, a full-service travel agency specializing in Disney destinations. She lives with her husband and seven little ones' ages eleven and under. She enjoys helping with her children’s school PTO’s and all things Disney.


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