Which Walt Disney World Restaurants Should You Skip?

Which Walt Disney World Restaurants should you skip on your next vacation? We have the answers and suggestions for where you should go instead.

The beauty of dining at Walt Disney World is that there is an experience for everyone. What may not be to your taste could be a standout favorite for someone else. With that said, however, there are some restaurants that frequent Walt Disney World guests suggest that you skip on your next vacation. I consulted a group of amazing Disney and family bloggers to get their opinion. Whether it was poor service, mediocre food, or loud atmospheres, these table service dining experience are not worth spending your money on. But, I’d be remiss if I only told you the bad. I’m offering my suggestions for where you should go instead.

Which Walt Disney World Table Service Restaurants Should You Skip?

Sci-fi Dine-In

While we had a decent meal there, Sci-fi Dine-In was overwhelmingly the number one choice for restaurants to skip. People tend to have to wait a very long time for food that is just ok. The dark atmosphere is also a big negative. If you are dining with guests with food allergies, guests have experienced a disconnect with their chefs. Overall, there’s not enough good to make some vacationers go back again.

Where you should go instead:

The big draw to Sci-fi is the experience. You get to eat in a car and pretend as if you are in a drive-in movie. If you are looking for a unique experience with better food and service try 50’s Prime Time at Hollywood Studios instead.

Restaurant Marrakesh

While the atmosphere and the ambiance is a huge draw, the menu at Restaurant Marrakesh in Epcot’s Morocco pavilion needs a revamp. Guests with non-adventurous eaters in their party will have a hard time finding something on the menu to satisfy their appetite.

Where you should go instead:

If you have your heart set on dining in Morocco, try Spice Road Table instead. Plus you’ll have a great view of World Showcase Lagoon.

Le Cellier

Le Cellier usually comes highly recommended, but seasoned travelers know there are better places on property to get a good steak. The restaurant in Epcot’s Canada pavilion is overpriced and overcrowded. Personally, we’ve only dined there once as nothing about it really wowed us.

Where you should go instead:

 

Head over to the Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.

Coral Reef

The big draw to Coral Reef is the large fish tank that is the focal point of the restaurant. After that, there isn’t much else. The food here is mediocre at best.

Where you should go instead:

If you’re looking for a good seafood meal, I highly suggest making a reservation at Flying Fish at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. Its contemporary American menu does not disappoint.

Tony’s Town Square

For us, Tony’s Town Square at the Magic Kingdom was a one and done restaurant. The menu is limited and the cuisine of heavy pasta and meats doesn’t seem to fit into the Magic Kingdom. Our one meal there was alright, though we did like the atmosphere and the Lady and the Tramp fountain. For many, Tony’s is a last resort.

Where you should go instead:

The best Italian on property can be found at either Via Napoli or Tutto Italia which are both found in Epcot’s Italy pavilion.

Rainforest Cafe

When I’m on vacation, I don’t want to eat somewhere I can eat at home. There are Rainforest Cafes in almost every state in our part of the country. But that’s not my biggest issue. The food there isn’t good. For some reason, the wait is always long which can be hard if you’re traveling with kids. The atmosphere is loud, chaotic and overstimulating. Needless to say, I’m not a fan.

Where you should go instead:

Though owned and operated by the same company, T-Rex at Disney Springs Marketplace would be a better alternative. The restaurant is unique in that it is themed after dinosaurs and it’s only found at Walt Disney World. And in our experience, it’s less crowded, which means less waiting and better service.

San Angel Inn Restaurante

San Angel Inn inside Epcot’s Mexico pavilion gets mixed reviews. Some people love the food, some hate it. Some love the atmosphere, some think it’s too dark. Service is also hit or miss. For me, the fact that this restaurant can be unpredictable is reason enough for me to stay away.

Where you should go instead:

Across the way from the pyramid is La Hacienda de San Angel. This restaurant is bright, spacious and includes a more varied menu. La Hacienda also offers waterfront views. If you make a later reservation, you may be able to catch Epcot’s nighttime fireworks show.

Note: La Hacienda de San Angel is only available for dinner.

House of Blues

Just like Rainforest Cafe, House of Blues at Disney Springs has multiple locations around the country. It doesn’t give you the Disney vibe or experience. The menu is also not something to write home about. Sure the live music is nice, but there are ways to enjoy that without having to spend your time eating a full meal there.

Where you should go instead:

With the recent expansion of Disney Springs, there are so many other dining options. But, if you have your heart set on live music with your meal, I highly suggest Raglan Road. This Irish pub and restaurant are fun. flavorful and offers live Celtic music and dancing. If you can’t make it fit into your dinner plans, definitely try their brunch!

 

For more Walt Disney World Dining posts:

Tables in Wonderland | Save Money on Disney Dining

Is the Disney Dining Plan worth it?

The Best Walt Disney World Table Service Restaurants for Kids

The Best Character Meals at Walt Disney World

10 Best Walt Disney World Restaurant Views

 

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