Hey Moms (and Dads) — if you’re planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World Resort, listen up: yes, you’ll get all the family fun, character pics, ride-screams and Mickey ice cream. But don’t forget: it’s your vacation too! A Disney trip can be exhausting and my husband and I love to take a night for ourselves. After a long day of stroller pushing, a kid-free dinner is a well-deserved break. It’s a common misconception that there’s no good food at Disney World, but I’m here to tell you that’s not true! 

So here are five of my favorite date-night restaurants at WDW, each with its own vibe, price point, and dress-code notes (because you’re busy, and I’ve done the homework for you).

5. Shiki-Sai Sushi Izakaya (EPCOT, Japan Pavilion)

• Location: The Japan Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase.
• Pricing: $15-$35 entrees for adults
• The Vibe: This is a more casual, yet still wonderfully grown-up option. It’s a lively Izakaya (Japanese gastropub) offering delicious sushi, hot dishes, and a great sake selection. The large windows offer beautiful views of the World Showcase Lagoon.
• The Dress Code: None. Theme park casual is perfectly acceptable here, which is great if you’re coming straight from a day in the park!

4. Narcoossee’s (Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)

• Location: A picturesque waterfront pavilion at the end of the boat dock at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
• Pricing: $45-$89 entrees for adults
• The Vibe: This spot has a light, airy, Victorian seaside feel. It’s known for fresh, inventive seafood and steak dishes. Since it sits right on the water, you get fantastic views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and, yes, a spectacular view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks!
• The Dress Code: Signature Dining, so Resort Casual is recommended.

3. Monsieur Paul (EPCOT, France Pavilion)

• Location: Upstairs inside the France Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase.
• Pricing: Starts at $195 per person, prix fixe menu, tax and gratuity not included (but it’s totally worth it!)
• The Vibe: This is your fancy date night. Named after a renowned French chef, it offers a refined, luxurious, and quiet experience with an elaborate, high-end French prix-fixe menu. It’s the most intimate and formal option on the list.
• The Dress Code: An opportunity to dress up! While they won’t kick you out for wearing casual theme park attire, dressing up for this Signature Dining experience is recommended and you may feel out of place if you’re dressed too casual. They also have an age limit of 10 and up, adding to the sophisticated feel.

2. Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Disney’s Riviera Resort)

• Location: On the rooftop of the Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Pricing: For dinner, entrées range ~$40-$65+ for adults
• The Vibe: You’ll feel like you’ve been whisked away to Europe for the evening, yet you’re still at Disney. It’s a “wow” moment for you and your spouse amidst the family fun. Don’t miss the views from the terrace. If you’re lucky, you can see the EPCOT or Hollywood Studios fireworks.
• The Dress Code: Signature Dining, so Resort Casual is expected. A perfect excuse to dress up a little!

1. California Grill (Disney’s Contemporary Resort) – My Favorite Date Night Spot at Disney!

• Location: Perched on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Take a private elevator up for the ultimate “getting away” feeling!
• Pricing: Prix Fixe menu $99 per adult, plus tax and gratuity
• The Vibe: It’s sophisticated, buzzing, and the food is modern Californian cuisine. The real star? The panoramic view. Time your reservation right and you’ll watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from their outdoor observation deck with the music piped in—pure magic!
• The Dress Code: Yes, it’s Signature Dining. Think Resort Casual. Khakis, slacks, or nice shorts and a collared shirt for him; skirts, dresses, or nice shorts for her.

Don’t forget – if you’re booking your Disney World vacation with me, Your Magical Mom, I will book all of your dining reservations for you! The reservation booking window opens up 60 days prior to your trip at 6 AM. If you book with me, I set my alarm clock bright and early, so you don’t have to!

Are you ready to start planning your dream Disney vacation? Let’s go!