Top Outdoor Dining Restaurants at Disney World

Selecting dining options has always been a key part of planning a Disney getaway. With ongoing pandemic concerns, many guests aiming for a safe experience are choosing to limit their meals to outdoor venues.

Numerous Walt Disney World favorites and highly themed dining experiences lack outdoor seating, leaving even seasoned visitors exploring new options as their usual must-visit spots are temporarily unavailable.

Finding outdoor table-service dining at Disney World can be challenging, particularly within the theme parks. While quick-service restaurants offer more opportunities for al fresco meals, there are still excellent table-service locations to enjoy outdoor dining during your visit.

We’ve compiled a list of the top spots at Walt Disney World for outdoor dining, emphasizing table service but also including reliable quick-service options when table service is limited.

Essential tips for enjoying outdoor dining at Disney.

When planning outdoor dining at Disney World, it's crucial to prepare for the unexpected and have a contingency plan. The weather in Central Florida can be quite erratic, swinging from chilly winter spells to sweltering summer heat and sudden thunderstorms, which can impact your outdoor dining experience and even lead to the closure of outdoor seating areas.

The positive news is that if you have a table-service reservation and the restaurant cannot accommodate you outdoors, they will waive the same-day cancellation fee if you inform them at the host stand about your need to cancel.

With a limited number of outdoor table-service choices available at Disney, we highly recommend exploring "lounges," which often provide shareable small plates and excellent cocktails, though they may not have a standard kids menu.

Many of the most charming dining locations at Walt Disney World are lounges, but they do require some creativity when it comes to meals—especially if you're accustomed to a traditional three-course dining experience while on vacation. However, with an open mindset and a hungry belly, you may uncover some delightful new favorites from our list of top outdoor dining spots at Walt Disney World.

Top outdoor dining experiences at the Magic Kingdom

Among the four theme parks at Walt Disney World, the Magic Kingdom offers the fewest solid outdoor dining choices in terms of both food quality and ambiance. None of the options on this list would rank higher than alternatives outside the park, so if these selections don’t appeal to you, consider visiting another park or a nearby resort for more variety.

Table service options

Tony's Town Square Restaurant

If you're seeking outdoor table-service dining at the Magic Kingdom, your sole choice is Tony's Town Square Restaurant, which isn't always open. This "Lady and the Tramp"-themed eatery offers Italian-American favorites like spaghetti and meatballs, Tony's pizza pie, and fettuccine alfredo. While the food often receives mediocre reviews, the outdoor patio provides a charming view of the Town Square area on Main Street, U.S.A.

Patio seating is contingent on weather conditions and staffing availability, so it’s best to check with the restaurant upon opening to see if outdoor seating will be available for your reservation. If it's not, you can cancel in person at the desk (just explain your situation, and they’ll waive the cancellation fee) and switch to your backup plan.

Quick service options

Casey's Corner

Dining at Casey's Corner may not be extravagant, but it’s hard to go wrong with corn dog nuggets, stunning castle views, and the occasional live performance by the pianist. They offer a hot dog for every preference, from Walt's all-beef chili-cheese foot-long hot dog (try saying that five times fast) to a plant-based loaded slaw dog.

Make sure to monitor mobile order return times—this location can become quite popular during peak hours—then secure a spot under one of the vibrant red-and-white umbrellas for a fantastic meal.

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn & Cafe

This Frontierland eatery features Tex-Mex favorites like fajitas, nachos, rice bowls, and burgers, making it one of the top-rated quick-service options at the Magic Kingdom. Pecos Bill's spacious outdoor seating area fills up swiftly, along with mobile order return times, so don’t wait until your group is starving to place your order.

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café

The menu at Cosmic Ray's is as theme-park basic as it gets, but that’s exactly what some diners crave—especially those with selective tastes. This Tomorrowland venue offers burgers, hot dogs, and chicken strips, and it’s usually easy to find a fully shaded outdoor table.

Top outdoor dining options at Disney's Hollywood Studios

Similar to the Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios has limited outdoor table service, but quick-service dining is a must-try here. In my opinion, the best meals at Hollywood Studios can be found in a galaxy far, far away within the park's newest area, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, along with a few other great options—enough to keep you well-fed outdoors throughout the day.

Table service options

The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge

The sole outdoor table-service option at Disney's Hollywood Studios is actually the lounge section of our top choice for the best table-service meal in the park: The Hollywood Brown Derby, which pays homage to the legendary Hollywood landmark.

To dine outside at The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge, join the walk-up list where you can enjoy classic cocktails like an Old Fashioned, Paloma, or Hollywood Manhattan, along with lounge favorites such as the renowned Brown Derby cobb salad, shrimp cocktail, and BLT sliders. If you're feeling particularly hungry, you can also order from the full restaurant menu while seated at the outdoor lounge tables.

Quick service options

Woody's Lunch Box

It’s no surprise that the menu at Woody's Lunch Box in Toy Story Land is dominated by kid-friendly comfort food.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, this vibrant, all-outdoor eatery draws families with its unique spins on classic dishes. While everyone has their personal favorite, you can’t go wrong with the BBQ brisket melt, the grilled three-cheese sandwich served with a cup of tomato soup for dipping, or the "Totchos," a decadent mash-up of tater tots and nachos piled high with chili, cheese, queso, corn chips, sour cream, tomatoes, and green onions.

Daily lunch box tarts (imagine delicious homemade Pop-Tarts) and breakfast bowls are perfect for mobile ordering, making them a quick grab-and-go option after experiencing Slinky Dog Dash or the nearby Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway.

Docking Bay 7 Food & Cargo

If you're seeking more than just the basics from your theme park dining, the menu at the main quick-service spot in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is truly impressive. Just look for the food freighter perched on the roof of this hangar-bay-turned-restaurant, where Chef Strono "Cookie" Tuggs serves up some of the finest quick-service dishes at Walt Disney World.

Dishes such as the fried Endorian chicken Tip Yip, smoked Kaadu pork ribs, and plant-based Felucian kefta with hummus garden spread may sound—and look—exotic, but they’re popular choices even among those with less adventurous tastes.

The seating area offers a serene atmosphere, even though it's just steps away from the lively Black Spire Outpost's Marketplace and the Millennium Falcon.

Ronto Roasters

Located in Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Ronto Roasters resembles an otherworldly shawarma stand.

A pitmaster droid rotates the spit roasting a side of "ronto," an animal from Tatooine, but the classic Ronto wrap features roasted pork, grilled pork sausage, peppercorn sauce, and zesty slaw all wrapped in pita bread. (This dish is actually TPG travel editor Madison Blancaflor's top pick for an in-park meal at Disney World.)

For vegans and vegetarians, the plant-based Zuchii Wrap is filled with grilled zucchini and a smoky chickpea-onion slaw. This spot is also considered one of the best breakfast locations in the park. Bright Suns, as the locals say.

All the tables here are outdoors and tend to fill up quickly, but there’s always a standing bar available as a last resort.

BaseLine Tap House

More akin to a traditional bar than any other venue on this list, BaseLine Tap House still deserves recognition for its fantastic outdoor seating area (complete with a great soundtrack), a solid—if limited—menu, and an appealing selection of California wines and beers on tap.

BaseLine is an excellent spot for snacks, but adults can easily turn it into a meal with options like California cheese and charcuterie, coffee-rubbed rib-eye steak puffs, and the enormous Bavarian pretzel served with beer-cheese fondue and spicy mustard. This menu is sure to please hungry kids as well.

Top outdoor dining options at Disney's Animal Kingdom

While Disney's Animal Kingdom may not have many outdoor table-service options, it compensates with consistently excellent quick-service food throughout the park, along with some picturesque dining spots.

Table service options

Nomad Lounge

Although none of the table-service restaurants at Disney's Animal Kingdom feature outdoor seating, Nomad Lounge, the more laid-back offshoot of Tiffins Restaurant next door, could very well be the park's best-kept secret. Simply join the walk-up list (reservations aren’t accepted) and choose an outdoor table on the lounge's wraparound terrace that overlooks the Discovery River.

The drinks here have garnered a devoted following. Don’t miss the Hightower Rocks, a refreshing blend of tequila, watermelon, sweet-and-sour, and lime juice, or the Kungaloosh Spiced Excursion Ale Draft, an African-inspired amber ale brewed exclusively for Walt Disney World.

Unwind on the cozy wicker couches as you enjoy the passing character flotillas, refueling with small plates like the Togarashi-spiced tuna nomad bowl, Impossible sliders with chipotle aioli, yucca fries, and churros served with vanilla crema and chili-strawberry sauce.

Quick service

Flame Tree Barbecue

Barbecue enthusiasts should let their noses guide them (after placing a mobile order, of course) to this outdoor venue, which offers smokehouse favorites like pulled pork, St. Louis ribs, and slow-smoked chicken. Even the plant-based option, the Hot Link Smokehouse Sandwich, is a hit, topped with slaw, crispy onions, and mustard barbecue sauce, all served on a fluffy housemade roll.

As if the food weren’t enticing enough, Flame Tree offers one of the most picturesque seating areas in any of the theme parks.

You can sit by the serene pond or head down to the waterfront, where — if you time it just right — you might catch a front-row view of Disney KiteTails, the park's new must-see daytime show that debuted with Walt Disney World's 50th-anniversary celebration.

Satu'li Canteen

Satu'li Canteen is frequently hailed as one of the top quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World, and for good reason. Situated in Animal Kingdom's Pandora — the world of "Avatar" — it serves as the ideal remedy after indulging in too many fried, fast-food meals in the park.

Enjoy fresh, customizable bowls featuring your choice of protein served over a bed of hearty salad, noodles, rice and beans, or red and sweet potato hash. Complete your meal with a vibrant, crunchy slaw and your preferred sauce.

If bowls aren’t your preference, the steamed cheeseburger pods are also a beloved choice. Pair your meal with a refreshing Hawkes' Grog Ale and treat yourself to the much-loved Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse for dessert.

The expansive outdoor seating area provides a fantastic backdrop to enjoy the sights and sounds of Pandora. Despite Satu'li's popularity, it’s generally easy to secure a table. We particularly enjoy mobile ordering at Satu'li and timing our pickup right after experiencing Avatar: Flight of Passage, which conveniently exits near the restaurant's entrance.

Best outdoor dining at Epcot

While other parks may fall short on outdoor dining options, Epcot excels with a variety of choices. With several table-service restaurants, numerous quick-service venues, and seasonal festivals throughout the year, it’s much easier to enjoy outdoor meals here than at the other parks.

Table service

Rose & Crown Dining Room

This charming pub nestled in the U.K. pavilion features ample outdoor seating by the water, offering stunning views of World Showcase Lagoon. Be sure to specify your preference for outdoor seating when checking in for your reservation. Enjoy a delightful menu of British classics, including excellent fish and chips, bangers and mash, and shepherd's pie, best complemented by a proper pint or a dash of scotch whisky, followed by some sticky toffee pudding for dessert.

For a memorable dining experience combined with a show, consider booking a Rose & Crown Fireworks Dining Package ($89 per adult and $39 per child), which includes a prix fixe meal on the patio during Harmonious, Epcot's spectacular nighttime event.

Spice Road Table

While technically classified as a lounge, Spice Road Table in the Morocco pavilion operates on a walk-up basis, making it quite easy to find a table most of the time.

The stunning open-air space, adorned with vibrant tiles and overlooking the water, is truly beautiful. The service is top-notch, and the selection of small plates is consistently delectable. Highlights from the menu include the vegetarian Tiropitakia, phyllo pastries stuffed with cheese and topped with cucumber-tomato relish, plant-based pomegranate-chili crispy cauliflower, spiced chicken, and fried calamari. Don't let the word "spice" intimidate you; it refers more to rich flavors than heat, as most dishes are quite mild.

Spice Road Table also provides a Fireworks Dining Package during Harmonious for $72 per adult and $31 per child, featuring a prix fixe meal.

Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria

Known for serving some of the finest pizza at Walt Disney World, Via Napoli in Epcot's Italy pavilion specializes in authentic Neapolitan pies that are flash-fired in wood-burning ovens named after Italy's three active volcanoes.

The food here is outstanding, but do keep in mind that outdoor seating is quite limited and often hard to come by, so it may not be the best choice for outdoor dining. Similar to other table-service restaurants without guaranteed outdoor seating, you can make a reservation and request to sit outside. If they cannot accommodate you, you should be able to cancel without any penalties in person.

Tutto Italia Ristorante

Similar to its neighbor Via Napoli, Tutto Italia doesn’t always have patio seating. However, when it does, it's a fantastic choice for enjoying Italian staples such as lasagna alla bolognese, chicken parmigiana, and delightful desserts like cannoli and panna cotta.

Quick service

La Cantina de San Angel

The Mexico pavilion features two reliable table-service restaurants, but unfortunately, neither provides outdoor seating.

Fortunately, La Cantina de San Angel comes close to matching the quality of its more expensive table-service counterparts. Enjoy flavorful options like tacos de pollo, barbacoa, or pescado, along with empanadas con queso and nachos.

The shaded seating by the waterfront makes this an ideal place to relax and enjoy a midday snack. Refresh yourself with a frozen mango or lime margarita, paired with guacamole and totopos (we highly recommend adding their delicious white nacho cheese to enhance your chips).

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue

Since its opening on February 19, 2020, this barbecue haven has revitalized quick-service dining in Epcot's The American Adventure pavilion. Regal Eagle Smokehouse is a paradise for meat enthusiasts, offering a menu influenced by some of the most renowned barbecue regions and traditions in America.

Indulge in mouthwatering options such as Memphis dry-rub pork ribs, a sliced Texas beef brisket sandwich, Kansas City smoked half-chicken, and a North Carolina chopped smoked pork butt platter, all paired with classic sides like creamy coleslaw, macaroni and cheese, and baked beans with burnt ends. Even the vegan selection stands out with the BBQ jackfruit burger, featuring BBQ jackfruit, lettuce, and plant-based mayonnaise on garlic toast.

Order your meal via mobile, then enjoy a creative cocktail or craft beer from the fantastic outdoor bar while settling into the spacious alfresco seating area. If you're lucky, you might catch some live musical performances from the America Gardens Theatre—just check the My Disney Experience app for the showtimes.

Katsura Grill

Nestled just off the main path of World Showcase, this serene retreat feels like a world away from the park's hustle and bustle. Located in a peaceful, elevated area amidst the koi ponds and gentle waterfalls of the Japan pavilion, Katsura Grill offers a delightful menu featuring sushi, ramen, udon, and teriyaki. It's an ideal spot for overstimulated little ones needing a quiet break—plus, they'll enjoy watching the fish swim.

Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Save a few bucks while enjoying the same delectable fish and chips offered at Rose & Crown by grabbing them to-go from the quick-service Yorkshire County Fish Shop. Treat yourself to a basket of crispy, beer-battered hake paired with thick-cut chips and a refreshing draft Harp Lager or Bass Ale, then savor a classic British meal at one of the U.K. pavilion's many waterfront tables overlooking the World Showcase Lagoon.

Top outdoor dining spots at Walt Disney World Resorts

Walt Disney World's array of hotels features outdoor seating options alongside their quick-service eateries. Many of the resort's most beloved table-service restaurants, like the newly opened Steakhouse 71 at Disney's Contemporary Resort and Sanaa at Disney's Animal Kingdom, now provide a "To Go" service, allowing you to place a Mobile Order and enjoy your meal outside or back in your room.

If you're planning to dine at a resort, keep in mind that a dining or hotel reservation is necessary for parking. While rideshares may sometimes get waved through, they technically require a reservation for drop-off. To reach a resort without one, consider using Disney transportation.

Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney's Wilderness Lodge

A perfect retreat to access by boat during a busy day at Magic Kingdom, Geyser Point Bar & Grill is set in a charming, open-air building along the shores of Bay Lake, nestled beneath the impressive Disney's Wilderness Lodge.

Although technically classified as a lounge, this restaurant does not accept reservations. However, you can add your name to the walk-up list when you're nearby. The menu features small plates like cheese and charcuterie and barbecue brisket, alongside larger offerings such as the beloved bison cheeseburger, roasted salmon, and grilled portobello salad. Guests can also enjoy a variety of specialty cocktails, local craft beers, and popular seasonal cocktail flights.

Trattoria al Forno at Disney's BoardWalk

Conveniently located just steps from Epcot's International Gateway and the Disney Skyliner station, Trattoria al Forno on Disney's BoardWalk offers a few outdoor tables available upon check-in. Following a recent change in chef and a revamped menu earlier this year, the restaurant has transformed its once-average Italian dishes into some of the finest at Walt Disney World.

Dinner highlights include the shrimp pappardelle, veal osso bucco, and a plant-based rigatoni bolognese that even meat-lovers rave about. For breakfast, the menu offers a delightful Italian twist on classics, featuring favorites like tiramisu-style French toast and a caprese omelet, perfect for a relaxed meal before venturing into Epcot.

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the boardwalk from an outdoor table. If you can't secure a reservation, you can still order from Trattoria al Forno to-go and savor your meal at one of the many tables along the boardwalk.

AbracadaBar at Disney's BoardWalk

An ideal spot for people-watching on the Atlantic City-inspired boardwalk, AbracadaBar is a magician-themed lounge that offers a limited but delightful menu of small plates prepared in the adjacent Trattoria al Forno kitchen. Options include Abra Fries, margarita pizza, or salumi, and you can also grab a bite from the nearby BoardWalk Pizza Window or Boardwalk Bakery to enjoy alongside one of AbracadaBar's craft cocktails.

Dahlia Lounge at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

For stunning views and delicious food without the need for a reservation, visit Dahlia Lounge located in the recently opened Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. This hidden treasure features a menu of Spanish tapas-style small plates, specialty cocktails, and an excellent array of Spanish wines and cavas.

You can create a delightful meal with shareable options like Spanish Charcuterie, Ham and Cheese Bocadillo, Crispy Artichokes, and Tortilla Espanola. Alternatively, enjoy a drink while soaking in the stunning views before heading to the nearby Three Bridges Bar & Grill for an alfresco dinner.

Olivia's Café, Old Key West

With lush tropical landscaping, vibrant buildings, and an inviting soundtrack, Disney's Old Key West Resort exudes a perpetual vacation ambiance. As the original Disney Vacation Club Resort, it also houses one of Walt Disney World's hidden gems — Olivia's Café.

This restaurant offers island-inspired seafood dishes typical of Key West, such as crab cakes and conch fritters. However, Olivia's is best known for two Southern specialties: the famed breakfast grits (one of the finest on property) and the southernmost fried chicken served at lunch and dinner. Be sure to request an outdoor table in the spacious seating area and don’t forget to indulge in a Key lime tart for dessert.

Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace and Capt. Cook's, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Trader Sam's Grog Grotto stands out as one of Disney's most elaborately themed and immersive dining experiences, making it essential to visit the iconic tiki bar if you enjoy indoor settings. Nevertheless, the outdoor extension, Trader Sam's Tiki Terrace, is a delightful destination on its own.

With a soothing waterfall, beautiful views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Cinderella Castle in the background, plus the chance to enjoy live ukulele music or catch a glimpse of Disney Enchantment from Magic Kingdom, the terrace offers an unforgettable evening.

Indulge in the tiki cocktails Trader Sam's is famous for, including the Polynesian Pearl, Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum, Zombie, and HippopatoMai-Tai, along with small plates such as sushi, dumplings, flatbreads, and lettuce cups.

For a more extensive menu, head to Capt. Cook's, the adjacent quick-service eatery sharing the patio. It features kid-friendly favorites like chicken fingers, mac and cheese, and burgers, along with Polynesian specialties such as the Aloha pork sandwich, pan-Asian noodles with vegetables, and Thai coconut meatballs. Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is conveniently accessible by a boat ride from Magic Kingdom or a short walk from the Ticket and Transportation Center.

Grand Floridian Café and Gasparilla Island Grill, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

A short boat ride or a 10-minute walk from Magic Kingdom, Grand Floridian Café evokes the charm of a Victorian tea room, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The breakfast and lunch menus feature beloved dishes like the lobster thermidor burger, fresh salads, and breakfast staples such as steak and eggs and buttermilk fried chicken with waffles, all available throughout the day. You can request outdoor seating upon check-in, although it's seasonal and usually limited to breakfast or lunch.

If outdoor seating isn't available at Grand Floridian Café during your visit, Gasparilla Island Grill is an excellent alternative. This quick-service spot nearby boasts ample outdoor seating with views of Seven Seas Lagoon and Cinderella Castle, serving a range of burgers, hot and cold sandwiches, pizzas, and salads.

Enchanted Rose, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Another lounge that shines. This elegant escape, inspired by "Beauty and the Beast," is adorned with tasteful nods to the film. Make sure to check out the stunning main bar and the cozy library before settling into a spot on Enchanted Rose's heated patio.

Enjoy signature cocktails such as the Lavender Fog, Floral Bitter Beauty, and a rotating seasonal old fashioned. Pair your drinks with shareable small plates like flatbreads, truffle fries, and crab macaroni and cheese.

Bar Riva, Disney's Riviera Resort

With only one outdoor table-service option at Disney's Hollywood Studios, a quick ride on the Disney Skyliner to Disney's Riviera Resort offers another delightful choice. Although it functions as the resort's pool bar, Bar Riva is a lovely open-air venue, adorned in tranquil shades of blue with plenty of references to the Italian and French Riviera.

Bar Riva operates on a walk-up basis but features a table-service lounge menu showcasing Mediterranean-inspired dishes like tuna Niçoise, Greek salads, baked brie in puff pastry, and grilled vegetable skewers. If the tables are occupied and you prefer not to wait, the quick-service Primo Piatto next door is a dependable alternative. You can mobile order and enjoy your meal outdoors.

Disney Springs

When it comes to outdoor dining at Disney Springs, you'll find yourself with an abundance of choices. While there are numerous excellent options to consider (notable mentions include Raglan Road and The Polite Pig), here are a few favorites, all of which feature outdoor seating—just make sure to indicate your preference at check-in.

Wine Bar George

George Miliotis' wine bar at Disney Springs is celebrated for its delectable small plates and thoughtfully selected wine list. Enjoy shareable dishes such as flaming saganaki, crispy mac and cheese bites, and grilled romaine, along with cheese and charcuterie boards. Alternatively, save some appetite for the entrees and family-style options like skirt steak or grilled whole Greek sea bass.

Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar

For Disney enthusiasts, Jock Lindsey's Hangar Bar is the ultimate destination at Disney Springs. Owned and operated by Disney, this Indiana Jones-themed bar, housed in a converted airplane hangar, is filled with fun nods to the films, the history of Disney Springs' Adventurers Club, and the Society of Explorers and Adventurers lore.

Before settling at a table on the waterfront terrace, take a moment to appreciate the decor. The menu is filled with themed shareables like loaded pretzels, Fountain of Youth chicken wings, and Doctor Astorga's queso fundido, along with a variety of flatbreads and tacos. The inventive cocktail selection is another reason why patrons keep returning.

The Boathouse

Embracing the charming maritime theme, The Boathouse excels at waterfront dining, offering surf and turf like no other at Walt Disney World. Start with oysters on the half shell from the raw bar, peel-and-eat shrimp, or a rich lobster bisque, then move on to a Maine-style lobster roll or their award-winning burger. For a truly indulgent experience, opt for the Gibsons heritage steak with a Maine lobster tail add-on.

Chef Art Smith's Homecomin'

Disney Springs boasts an impressive lineup of culinary talent, featuring renowned restaurants like José Andrés' Jaleo, Rick Bayless' Frontera Cocina, and Masaharu Morimoto's Morimoto Asia.

Led by culinary star Chef Art Smith, Homecomin' is a tribute to Florida's farm-fresh ingredients, serving up mouthwatering Southern comfort dishes like Art's renowned fried chicken paired with irresistible cheddar drop biscuits, country fried steak, and fried catfish. For brunch enthusiasts, the Southern-inspired Rise 'n Shine Brunch is an absolute highlight.