The 13 Best Restaurants At The Disney Boardwalk | Orlando, FL

Written By: Gail Clifford | Published By: Foodie Flashpacker | March 18, 2024

Whether you’re craving a gourmet meal, eager for some swimming pool time, or mesmerized by the sight of an original model wood rollercoaster at the Boardwalk Inn or a gingerbread carousel at the Yacht Club at Christmas, Disney’s Boardwalk beckons with promises of magic and memories. Here, we’ll review the best restaurants at the Disney Boardwalk.

Rediscovering the Disney Boardwalk after 25 years (my first visit was for a medical conference) is like uncovering a treasure that has withstood the test of time and the waves of renovation, thriving in its ability to enchant visitors with its nighttime allure. 

Conveniently located next to EPCOT and accessible by the whimsical Skyliner, the Boardwalk offers a hassle-free escape from the everyday.

Here, the choice to park your car or forego the rental entirely simplifies your adventure, allowing for leisurely strolls or serene boat rides from the parks to this enchanting esplanade. Each step is an invitation to unwind, indulge, and create new memories, an ideal spot for families, friends, and solo travelers alike.

Its easy access and array of entertainment options make it a versatile choice for anyone eager to immerse themselves in the Disney magic, combined with the charm of a bygone era rejuvenated for today’s visitor. Whether you’re staying on-site or sampling the culinary delights that the Boardwalk has to offer, your journey here promises to be both memorable and perfectly tailored to your Disney experience.

The Boardwalk is a place where the day begins with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and sizzling delights and ends with the culinary crescendo of world-class cuisine under a velvet sky.

Immersed in the thrills of Walt Disney World’s parks, it’s no surprise that the bustling Boardwalk reserves its prime culinary scenes for the bookends of your day. With breakfast and dinner being the peak times for these delightful eateries, you’re invited to kick-start your mornings with hearty breakfasts and wind down with dinners that boast an array of flavors. While midday adventures may call you away to the wonders of the parks, rest assured that a quick bite for lunch is always within reach, with a spread of comfort classics like pizza, chicken strips, and burgers waiting to fuel your next magical moment.

For those in the know, an easy, picturesque stroll around the lake and across the bridge along the Disney Boardwalk leads you directly into the heart of EPCOT. This convenient path is more than just a shortcut—it’s a scenic journey that drops you off right between the charm of the United Kingdom and the allure of France in the World Showcase.

So when you’re ready to exchange the relative serenity of the daytime Boardwalk for the vibrant energy of the parks, take this insider’s walkway and find yourself seamlessly transitioning from one enchanting experience to another. Or take the Skyliner over to Disney Springs for even more to see and do.

Our dining experience at the Big River Grille & Brewing Works was one to remember, with my savory salmon and my daughter’s perfectly cooked steak highlighting the day. Unfortunately, we’ve learned that this delightful spot has closed its doors.

The news comes with a touch of sadness, as we had looked forward to sharing more about our meal and the restaurant’s hearty American cuisine—ranging from towering burgers to succulent ribs, all paired wonderfully with their selection of brews, making it a spot we’ll fondly remember and surely miss. Meanwhile, the anticipation for the Cake Bake Shop’s opening continues. It remains a “coming soon” attraction on the Boardwalk, another spot for sweet treats and enchanting ambiance it promises to bring.