The 21 Must-Try Foods at Disney Springs
The extensive revitalization of Disney Springs has transformed the former Downtown Disney into a sparkling outdoor promenade. As the only Disney property of this scale that doesn’t require admission, it’s a must-visit for anyone in the area. At its essence, Springs is a large waterfront shopping mall divided into four charmingly themed districts, but it also serves as a culinary hotspot, featuring vibrant bars, outstanding restaurants, and well-known culinary names. While there's ample shopping and entertainment, you're here for the Dole Whip cocktails and chicken biscuits.
Carlye Wisel is a theme park journalist and expert, known for her insights on topics like the creation of butterbeer and Disney's hidden food lab on her podcast, Very Amusing With Carlye Wisel.
Jaleo by José Andrés
The fifth and largest outpost of the renowned activist chef’s restaurant serves up Spanish cuisine that doesn’t shy away from flavor, even for a Disney audience. Enjoy sangria by the carafe, hand-carved jamón ibérico, and a nightly selection of paella, alongside modern interpretations of classic dishes, such as chicken croquettes presented on a Cinderella glass slipper “pillow.” In a hurry? Visit Pepe, Andrés’s quick-service spot, for grab-and-go bocadillos and sangria.
Rice Krispy Treat at Summer House on the Lake
This airy coastal Mytoury, an extension of Chicago’s Summer House Santa Monica, features an eye-catching cookie bar at its entrance. With a variety of tempting choices, the standout item is their decadent Rice Krispie Treat, rich with brown butter in every delicious bite.
Ice Cream from Salt & Straw
The 27th outpost of Portland’s beloved ice cream brand introduces arbequina olive oil and cinnamon snickerdoodle to the realm of traditional vanilla and chocolate. With carefully selected ingredients and vibrant flavors, the monthly rotating menu features wonderfully unique scoops, from pineapple-roasted to black pepper-infused. (Fortunately, they offer unlimited tastings.)
Pizza slices at Pizza Ponte
If you’re looking for a quick yet delicious meal on Disney property, head to Pizza Ponte, where the hearty Sicilian slices are as big as Mickey Mouse’s head.
Chicken Tenders at Chicken Guy!
This unique spot by Guy Fieri is part restaurant, part meme, offering fried and grilled chicken tenders, sandwiches, and seasoned fries. It’s popular among fans and newcomers alike. The only tough decision? Choosing from a dozen signature sauces to complement your meal.
S’more at the Ganachery
Experience the preparation of this campfire classic through a glass wall at this chocolate haven, celebrated for its range of artisanal squares. The live demonstration pairs perfectly with the s’mores featuring house-made gooey vanilla marshmallow, melted chocolate, and cinnamon sugar-dusted graham crackers.
Thigh High Chicken Biscuits at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’
Led by Florida native and celebrity chef Art Smith, this bustling Southern Mytoury features an ultimate sampler of crispy chicken thighs nestled between flaky cheddar biscuits. The weekend menu offers delicious upgrades like eggs Benedict on hush puppy cakes or biscuits generously topped with pimento cheese and gravy. Be sure to try the fried chicken accompanied by house-made donuts—if you can score a sought-after reservation!
Cookies at Gideon’s Bakehouse
Since the top cookie maker in Orlando took center stage at Disney, the bakery has kept its unique charm. The offerings of enormous cake slices and creative cold brews are tempting, but the star attraction is their nearly half-pound cookies—soft in the middle and packed with chocolate chips, Oreo pieces, and other exciting monthly flavors. They maintain high standards and don’t ship nationwide, making these hefty cookies some of the most sought-after treats at Disney World. Avoid dessert elsewhere, prepare for the long virtual queue, and stay tuned for exclusive events like hot cookie hour, coffee cake cookie specials, and secret cake slices that need a social media password to order.
Build-Your-Own Pizza at Blaze Pizza
Although Blaze is a fast-food chain found nationwide, this is Disney World. After a week of splurging on overpriced theme-park snacks, you’ll appreciate a fully customizable, made-to-order pizza for just under $12.
Firecracker Shrimp at the Boathouse
The Boathouse’s expansive waterfront venue is known for its luxurious seafood towers and steaks, but this plate of fried shrimp, topped with chiles and Sriracha mayo, is quickly becoming a top Disney indulgence.
Spicy Kimchi Ramen at Morimoto Asia Street Food
Despite catering to a family-friendly audience, this savory bowl of freshly cooked noodles topped with bulgogi, kimchi, and a soy egg is impressively delicious. You can find it at the outdoor kiosk next to Morimoto’s main restaurant, alongside other delightful Japanese offerings.
Spare Ribs at Morimoto Asia
Skip the typical in-park turkey legs — if you crave a hearty bone-in meat experience, wait for these. Braised in a delightful sweet-and-spicy hoisin sauce and lightly fried, these succulent pork ribs are available in quarter or half racks and are undoubtedly the star dish at Morimoto Asia.
A Scoop at Vivoli il Gelato
This family-owned gelato shop, with locations in Florence, Italy, and here, has been serving creamy gelato for decades. Perfect for Florida's heat, where soft serve melts instantly, their flavors like almond, cannoli, and cream custard offer a refreshing alternative to the usual sugary options around. You can grab a scoop at the storefront or from the gelato cart just outside World of Disney.
Crispy Mac and Cheese Bites at Wine Bar George
These heavenly morsels, filled with mascarpone, Havarti, fontina, and pecorino, are coated in a spicy jalapeño cracker crust and are utterly irresistible. Enjoy them alongside one of George's 'Outstanding by the Ounce' wines for a small taste of typically pricey selections, and don't miss the family-style skirt steak board.
Frozen Cocktails at the Basket at Wine Bar George
In Florida’s sticky heat, a frozen cocktail is a must. Disney offers many options, but for a truly tasty choice, head to Wine Bar George. Their takeaway window features the famous frozcato — a delightful blend of Dole Whip, moscato, and vodka — while the strawberry frosé is just as delicious. Other chilled delights include raspberry freaujolais, frozen Old Fashioned, and frozcato mimosa.
Ger’s Bread and Butter Pudding at Raglan Road Irish Pub
This rich, dense bread may seem plain at first, but once drenched with the vanilla crème Anglaise and house-made butterscotch, it morphs into a fluffy dessert that is nothing short of divine. At brunch, it becomes an indulgent French toast topped with vanilla mascarpone and fresh berries.
Cheeseburger at D-Luxe Burger
Featuring crispy, juicy patties crafted from a mix of Angus chuck, short rib, and brisket cooked to perfection, this burger is topped with a buttery, toasted Parker House bun, making it one of the finest burgers you'll encounter on Disney property. Spend a little more for the fresh-cut fries, which come with a selection of delicious dipping sauces.
Seafood at Paddlefish
On this spacious docked steamboat, indulge in a variety of fresh seafood options, whether chilled, fried, stuffed, or steamed.
Dole Whip at Swirls on the Water
Known as the “ultimate Dole Whip destination” in Disney Springs, this kiosk features flights, rum-infused floats, and other creative desserts celebrating Disney’s beloved soft-serve treat.
Petit Cakes at Amorette’s Patisserie
This Disney-owned pastry shop serves up delightful treats that defy expectations for a theme park shopping area. While Amorette’s character-inspired dome cakes steal the spotlight, the petit cakes are a must-try. The seasonal options tend to be more sophisticated, but it’s the Mickey and Minnie Mouse cake, filled with decadent mousse and Italian buttercream, that truly brings a touch of elegance to Disney World’s mouse-themed desserts.
Eet by Maneet Chauhan
Nestled in a secluded corner of Disney Springs is a true hidden gem from chef and Food Network star Maneet Chauhan. The menu features creative takes on Indian favorites, like naan pizzas and tandoori chicken poutine, alongside surprising dishes such as jhalmuri (puffed rice salad). The exquisite gulab jamun cheesecake is a standout. For the most fiery experience at Disney’s mall, opt for chopped green chiles and a side of bunna curry.
Evaluation :
5/5