But certain restaurants go to infinity and beyond in that department. There are hundreds of fantastic restaurants on property, but these are nine fine/signature restaurants in WDW that are a cut above.
1. Victoria and Albert’s
This exclusive restaurant is the cream of the crop. The waitlist for reservations can be insane if you’re not proactive about it. Seated regally in the already elegant Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Victoria and Albert’s has an exclusive menu of high-quality American cuisine. It has been a AAA Five Diamond Award recipient since 2000. For an even more romantic experience, try the Queen Victoria Room or the Chef’s table! Just make sure you bring your best credit card…
2. Jiko – The Cooking Place
Having dinner at Jiko is an experience. This remarkable Cooking Place is tucked away in Animal Kingdom Lodge. The interior of Jiko looks like the African savannah, its back wall changing color as the sun would set. The food is all authentic African cuisine. More likely than not, you’ll try a flavor you’ve never encountered before but will love!
3. California Grill
California Grill rocks because it has amazing foods and amazing views to match. It sits atop of the Contemporary Resort, overlooking Bay Lake and Cinderella Castle. It has a superb American cuisine menu, including a separate sushi menu that is awesome in its own right. Enjoy dinner or a spectacular brunch at California Grill, or hang out at its adjacent lounge that offers the same menu on a first come, first served basis.
4. Monsieur Paul
High class dining meets the architecture and detail of Epcot and you get Monsieur Paul. This restaurant from well-known to the world and World Showcase Chef Paul Bocuse has a beautiful menu of gourmet French cuisine, with elegant ambiance and terrific views. Another aspect of this signature restaurant that they love to emphasize is food presentation. Not only will the meal be delicious, it’ll look like art.
5. Capa
Capa is a restaurant unlike any other on Disney property. It can be found on top of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando. This restaurant doesn’t scream Disney in the traditional sense. Mickey is no where to be found, a view of Cinderella Castle is not possible. But its sophistication and authenticity shines. This is an “award-winning, Spanish-influenced rooftop steakhouse.” It has also recently been named to Wine Enthusiast magazine’s list of ‘Top 100 Wine Restaurants in the U.S.’ Make sure to check this one out!
6. Morimoto Asia
Morimoto Asia is a new hit for Disney Springs. It’s a family affair with some really amazing cuisine. This menu is huge, featuring Pan-Asian delicacies like peking duck, ramen, and an extensive sushi and sashimi selection. This restaurant is special because it not only feeds its guests, but teaches them about these amazing foods. Morimoto Asia is open for lunch, dinner, and late night dining, with a street cart selection for all the time!
7. Yachtsman Steakhouse
Sometimes you just need a really good steak. Here’s where Yachtsman Steakhouse can help. Located in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, this New England-style steakhouse has a spectacular menu. They feature high-quality, aged grass-fed beef that will make your mouth water. But they also specialize in surf and turf with their Maine Lobster and Pacific Halibut. You will not leave hungry.
8. Le Cellier
Le Cellier is a fan favorite for years. It’s a cozy little Canadian chateau inspired restaurant snuggled beneath a waterfall in its respective Epcot pavilion. This is a romantic spot, but also perfect for families searching for a unique, signature dining experience. The Canadian cheddar cheese soup is a must, but the salmon entree is phenomenal. If you can manage, try the maple creme brûlée for dessert!
9. Tiffins
Maybe not what anyone would have expected of a fine dining restaurant, but it definitely holds up! Themed after the movie Avatar and located in Animal Kingdom’s Pandora, this signature restaurant is all about the story. Its menu is an interesting conglomeration of things from chicken and waffles to charred octopus to spicy sadza (crispy corn cake). I’m dying to try the guava mousse and sweet potato ice cream.