Credit: DisneyDisney Springs, at the Walt Disney World Resort in Central Florida, has evolved into a first-class shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Combining well-recognized brands with Disney quality, this outdoor shopping mall-like experience is a must-visit that does not require admission to enter.
With over a dozen entertainment experiences, 60 + dining locations and more than 100 shopping opportunities, Disney Springs is the perfect place to grab a bite to eat, shop till you drop and snag a souvenir or few. Free parking and entry ensure enjoyment is easy for locals or those visiting the resort.
Spring Fourth
The Walt Disney World Shopping Village arrived at the end of Hotel Plaza Boulevard in 1975. Over the years, expansions added Pleasure Island and Downtown Disney Westside. Today all three regions comprise the Disney Springs district.
Inspired by American coastal towns, Disney Springs houses four fun areas: Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side. Strewn across this entertainment complex is an enticing assortment of dining possibilities. These come in two distinct service-style experiences: quick/counter food and table side meals.
Sit down dining delights
At each of these fine epicurean experiences, guests can enjoy a relaxing meal attended to by professional wait staff. Prices range from around $14 to $35 per adult. Reservations are strongly recommended and can usually be made up to 180 in advance (check each individual location for details and number to call).
AMC – MacGuffins – The perfect place to grab a drink before catching the latest blockbuster, MacGuffins (located on the West Side) also serves meals from Dine-in menu, all of which can be taken into the theater.
AMC Disney Springs 24 Dine-in Theaters – Delivering “Dinner and Movie” in one Disney Springs (West Side) experience, AMC touts a full menu of casual fare (flatbreads, appetizers, burgers, salads, wraps, milkshakes and more) delivered right to guests’ reserved movie seats.
The Boathouse – Upscale dining at Disney Springs’ Landing arrives with sumptuous surf and turf style. Steaks, seafood, sandwiches, desserts and more compliment the menu of this waterside restaurant.
Bongos Cuban Café– Live music, elegant ambiance and “world famous” Vaca Frita (seared shredded beef) or the award-winning roasted park (Lechon) join favorites like mojitos, flan, aroz con leche and Natilla (vanilla custard). The pineapple-shaped creation of Gloria and Emilio Estafan can be found in the West Side area.
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ – Southern classics like church lady deviled eggs, fried chicken, fried catfish, and grilled pork chops define comfort food at this Landing located restaurant. Brunch bites include fried chicken and doughnuts, green eggs and ham, short rib hash and shrimp & grits.
City Works Eatery & Pour House – A new sports-themed food venue will soon join the West Side. Promising variations on traditional American fare and over 90 different beers on tap, all surrounded by “gigantic high-definition TVs,” City Works is sure to satisfy the appetite for food and viewing of any sports fan.
The Edison – Seven steampunk powered environments give this 1920s styled space a wide range of visual eye candy. Culinary sights like DB ‘clothesline candied bacon,’ Impossible or Edison burgers, and a host of sweet surprises (black cherry cream shake, lollipop tree, triple chocolate voltage cake to name a few) fit well with Edison’s evening entertainment experiences. The Edison is located at the Landing in Disney Springs.
Enzo’s Hideaway – Inspired by the prohibition days of rum-running, this Landing located hidden gem features a Sunday supper (short ribs, meatballs, and sausage served with rigatoni) along with classic Italian temptations (pastas, cheeses, meats and more). Enzo’s also boasts the biggest collection of rum and scotch selections at Disney Springs.
Frontera Cocina – Mexican masterpieces crafted by award winning chef Rick Bayless are delivered in a bright colorful setting at this Town Center treasure. Impressive adult beverages compliment the menu (top drawer tequilas, wines, cocktails and margaritas (including the frozen “La Cava Avocado”).
House of Blues Restaurant & Bar – While this West Side restaurant serves Southern inspired cuisine daily, the Sunday Gospel Brunch (10:30 am – 1:00 pm) features live gospel acts and magnificent menu.
Jaleo by José Andrés – Coming soon to the West Side, this Washington DC-based Spanish sensation will soon be serving tapas style favorites and sangria.
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar – Inspired by the Indiana Jones movies, Jock’s serves savory temptations like snake bite sliders, Air Pirate pretzels, with flights of beer to wash it all down with. Several of the specialty spirits (Cool-headed Monkey, Scottish Professor, German Mechanic) take their names from the famous film franchise.
Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante – Sicilian dishes (eggplant parmesan, pastas, steaks and more) served in what appears to have been a 1930s airline terminal make magical meal experiences at this Italian restaurant at Disney Springs Landing. A prix fixe Sunday brunch is also offered.
Morimoto Asia – Perfectly prepared Peking Duck, dim-sum other Pan-Asian flavors can be found within this Shanghai styled restaurant owned by Iron Chef Morimoto (located at Disney Springs’ Landing).
Paddlefish – Originally known as the Empress Lilly, this seafood and steak dining room is located within the permanently docked paddleboat at the Landing. Guest can even have lobster guacamole prepared for them table side.
Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas – Waterfront dining at Disney Springs Landing features flavors from across the Americas. Enticing options include South Carolina-style pork ribs, Jamaican Jerk spiced shrimp cocktail, fire roasted corn on the cob, and Baja fish tacos.
Pepe by José Andrés – Spanish sandwiches, salads and sangria, and other creations by award-winning chef José Andrés, will soon be available at this forthcoming West Side casual dining destination.
Planet Hollywood Observatory– Movie memorabilia surrounds diners at this iconic Town Center restaurant. Feast on finds from famous chicken crunch appetizers to mouthwatering burgers brought to life by chef Guy Fieri.
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Traditional Irish fare (Shepherd’s pie, Atlantic fish & chips) and more pair well with European and American beers. Not only is the menu crafted by Dublin based chefs, but the entire interior was also imported from Ireland. Nightly entertainment (including the 90-minute Rhythms of Raglan Dance Show) and weekend brunch add to the charm of the Landing based restaurant.
Rainforest Café at Disney Springs Marketplace – While the exterior appears to be an active volcano, inside is a lush tropical setting stocked with animated birds, elephants, gorillas, accented by the occasional rainstorm. American dishes fill the menu.
Splitsville Dining Room – At Disney Springs’ West Side, Splitsville’s indoor/outdoor restaurant features favorites like burgers, pizza, sushi, and rice bowls.
STK Orlando – Appetizers like shaved Brussels sprouts and beef tartar, join seafood, salads, glazed beef short ribs, chili rubbed rack of lamb, grilled lobster Rockefeller on the menu of this modern steak house. Adding to the lively atmosphere, a DJ spins tunes during the dining experience at this Landing restaurant.
T-REX – Roaring dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures populate the dining room at this Marketplace immersive dining experience. Paleo pizzas, Jurassic chicken (dinosaur shaped), Megasaurus burgers, Tar Pit fried Shrimp lend themselves to the themed menu. After enjoying a dessert of either Chocolate Extinction or Meteor donut bites, take time to explore the various discovery zones.
Terralina Crafted Italian – With its waterfront view and Italian Lake-District inspired menu (eggplant fries, woodfired pizzas, Porchetta, seafood cannelloni and much more) award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano and Executive Chef Justin Plank have expertly crafted this dining experience at Disney Springs’ Landing.
Wine Bar George – Whether enjoying late night small plates (hummus, meatballs, burrata, grilled octopus salad), a cheese board, or a family sharing plate (Skirt steak, grilled whole Greek sea bass or wine braised chicken), be sure to leave room for dessert (olive oil cake, key lime pie or the chocolate experience-which pairs wines with chocolate). Cocktails and over 130 different wine selections can be found at this casual dining restaurant (Disney Springs Landing).
Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill – Found within the Town Center, Wolfgang Puck Bar and Grill satisfies hungry guests with a host of appetizers, wood-fired pizzas, sandwiches, pastas and entrees (which include mesquite grilled NY strip “Steak Fritees,” chicken schnitzel, and grilled shim geek salad).
Quick service selections
At these kiosks, food trucks and counter service locations, visitors order at the counter. Depending on the location, seating is provided, but usually, guests have to pick up their own orders. Costs can be as much as $15 per adult.
4Rivers Cantina Barbacoa Food Truck – Florida’s famous 4Rivers Smokehouse has its own food truck at Disney Springs. Located near Basin and World of Disney, Latin and Mexican cuisine fills the menu.
Amorette’s Patisserie – Specialty cakes, pastries, and New York cheesecake are among the treats which tempt guests at this mouthwatering bakery in the Town Center area.
Aristocrepes – Thin pancakes filled with sweet or savory ingredients can be found at this kiosk located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs.
The Basket at Wine Bar George – Part wine bar, part market, quick service options here include sandwiches, cheeses, cookies and over 130 wine selections. Look for this picnic inspiring gem at the Landing area.
B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. – One might think the Big Bad Wolf finally won based upon the gourmet sausage selections found at this Disney Springs Marketplace kiosk.
Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza – Salads and fully customizable pizzas (over 40 topping temptations and several sauces) ensure that this Town Center quick service pizzeria has a flavor to please everyone.
Bongos Cuban Café Express – Latin favorites like ham croquettes, empanadas, Cuban coffee offer perfect snacking sensations at this walk-up counter in Disney Springs’ West Side.
Chicken Guy – Famous Food Network personality Guy Fieri has his own counter service dining spot in the Town Center of Disney Springs. Chicken tenders, sandwiches, salads, and sides are served at this quick service shop.
Coca-Cola Store Rooftop Beverage Bar – Enjoy adult beverages or sip on Coca-Cola flavors from around the world while enjoying a rooftop view of Disney Springs. Guests can even blend ingredients to create their own flavor at this Town Center experience.
Cookes of Dublin – From fish and chips to meat pies, this counter service style eatery at The Landing in Disney Springs offers American and Irish inspired favorite fast foods. Indoor and outdoor seating is available.
D-Luxe Burger – Town Center located quick service breakfast, lunch and dinner by way of burgers (including breakfast burgers) can be found at D-Luxe. Shakes, floats and adult beverages are also offered.
The Daily Poutine – Featuring five French fry flavored poutine toppings (Classic, French, Italian, Latin, and Octoberfest), Daily Poutine also sells beers and beverages at its Town Center quick service location.
Disney Food Trucks – Exposition Park (Disney Springs West Side) provides parking for sumptuous street food serving food trucks. While these may vary from day to day, palate pleasing possibilities include “Fantasy Fare”(chicken/waffles, corn dogs, lobster mac & cheese) and “Springs’ Street Tacos (serving a quartet of taco temptations).
Dockside Margaritas – Marketplace at Disney Springs hosts a “1960s Florida fruit stand” where specialty adult beverages are served.
Earl of Sandwich – Founded by the creators of the sandwich (descendants of John Montagu), guests can enjoy fine-crafted toasted treats (Roast Beef, Holiday Turkey or Ham and more) as well as salads and wraps at this Marketplace manifestation.
Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC – Located at Disney Springs’ Landing, this bakery offers vegan, kosher and glut-free options of its donuts, muffins, cookies, and cupcakes.
Florida Snow Company Cart – In most cases, snow is rare in Florida, but not at this Marketplace marvel. Snow cones, roasted nuts, and beverages bring refreshment to shopping guests.
Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop – Coffee, shakes and ice-cream sundaes are served at this San Francisco founded franchise. At this Marketplace sweet-treat palace, specialty espresso (hot, iced or frozen) and chocolate drinks dot the menu as well.
Haagen-Dazs Kiosk at Disney Springs West Side – Shakes (with or without toppings), ice cream sandwiches, cones, coffee and frozen drinks delight guests seeking a cool, creamy treat.
House of Blues – The Front Porch – Live music (weather permitting) and creative cocktails entice visitors at this West Side lounge.
House of Blues – The Smokehouse – Pulled pork sandwiches join turkey legs and hot dogs on the menu of this West Side quick service spot.
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company – The Landing at Disney Springs is home to the “official specialty coffee provider of Walt Disney World Resort:” Joffrey’s. Latte’s, coffee, tea (30+ varieties), hot cocoa and other beverages quench thirsts here.
Joffrey’s Handcrafted Smoothies Kiosks – Find fruit flavored frozen snacks and adult beverages at two Disney Springs locations: Marketplace and West Side.
Lava Lounge at Rainforest Café – Located in the Marketplace at Disney Springs: “Cool off with a tropical cocktail at the bar of this refreshing Rainforest Cafe hotspot. Then, while your thirst gets quenched, peer out at picturesque views of Village Lake via the “lava tube”—a molten magma-inspired experience flowing in the walls near the restaurant’s entrance.” – Disney
Morimoto Asia Street Food – Octopus Fritters, Morimoto baby back ribs join other snacks from sushi to short rib, teriyaki chicken or pork Bao Tacos at this Pan Asian quick-service spot in the Landing.
Pizza Ponte – In addition to an assortment of pizza-by-the-slice selections, this Landing located Italian eatery offers sandwiches, desserts, soft drinks, and adult beverages.
The Polite Pig – Town Center’s quick service Barbeque “outpost” offers smoked meats, sandwiches, sides, desserts, and beverages (adult and non-alcoholic).
Sprinkles – Famous for its gourmet cupcakes, Sprinkles, in the Town Center area, even has a cupcake ATM to deliver its unique sweet treasures.
Starbucks – With locations at both Marketplace and West Side, Starbucks coffees, pastries and sandwiches are available for visitors to Disney Springs. Starbucks will even deliver to guests while they shop at Disney Springs!
Stargazers Bar – With its West Side patio featuring live entertainment (weather permitting) specialty cocktails, wine and beer set the stage for a relaxing respite to shopping at Disney Springs.
Vivoli Il Gelato – Florence based Vivoli il Gelato made The Landing at Disney Springs its first location outside of Italy. Featuring Italian gelati, sorbetti and baked treats, flavors like Cannolo (Cannoli), Tiramisu, Riso (rice pudding) Cocco (shredded coconut) are among the many amazing options.
Wetzel’s Pretzels – There are two places in Disney Springs (Marketplace and West Side) to enjoy these savory, soft, doughy delights.
Wolfgang Puck Express – Tucked away near Disney’s Days of Christmas at the Marketplace, is the counter service version of Wolfgang Puck’s dining destination. A lighter, counter-service version of the full-service West Side restaurant, there’s no shortage of gourmet delights. Handcrafted pizzas, salads, soups, and sandwiches join entrees like bacon wrapped meatloaf and oven-roasted salmon. Breakfast is also served.
YeSake Kiosk – West Side’s Japanese cuisine option, YeSake serves build-your-own bowls & wraps as well as slushies and sake.
Disney Springs is open every day with most locations opening at 10 am. Each of these shopping and entertainment experiences can be found just off the Hwy 535 exit on Interstate 4 at the intersection of Hotel Plaza Boulevard and E. Buena Vista Drive. While 5 parking lots and two multi-story garages offer plenty of parking, Disney bus and water transportation also services Disney Springs. Because there is no charge to park and entry into Disney Springs is free, it can tend to become very busy. Arriving early affords opportunities to enjoy a relaxed breakfast and usually beat the crowds.
Source and images: Disney, Wikipedia, Erin McKenna’s Bakery, ITM Archives