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The Top 3 Restaurants You Need to Try at Disney Springs

by | Jan 30, 2023 | Disney Springs, WDW Blog, WDW Food

Disney Springs has no shortage of delicious spots to grab a bite to eat. But some are better than others! Discover our picks for the top restaurants below.

Looking for a bite to eat? There are restaurants galore to choose from at Disney Springs, with options that include Italian, seafood, comfort food, BBQ, and beyond. The endless list of dining choices makes Disney Springs a truly mouthwatering destination within Walt Disney World Resort – but honestly, with so many options to choose from, the decision of where to eat can quickly become overwhelming.

Make your next trip a breeze and try our favorite restaurants! Below, we’re breaking down our top three restaurants you need to try at Disney Springs. With something for every kind of diner, you’ll enjoy some of the very best food Disney Springs has to offer while at these locations. 

1. Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ 

Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' exterior

The exterior of Homecomin’. Photo by Stephanie Shuster

Showcasing the flavors of Florida in a unique way, Homecomin’ by celebrity chef, Art Smith, is all about comfort food. On the menu, you’ll find a selection of items you’d be served right at home in your mom’s kitchen, bringing classics right to your table.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is perhaps best-known for Art’s Famous Fried Chicken. Buttermilk-brined and fried, the chicken is usually served with mashed potatoes and a cheddar drop biscuit (but you can swap or substitute the side dishes based on your preferences).

But that’s not the only must-try dish. Southern classics like Gator Bites, Okra Fries, Thigh High Chicken Biscuits, and Bee Haven Bay Fried Green Tomatoes are also diner faves. You can also try delicious meat mains like Braised Short Ribs, Chopped Pork Barbecue, Shrimp and Grits, and the always-a-must-have Country Fried Steak. Oh, and did we mention you can pair your fried chicken with doughnuts?!

If you have any room left after dinner, it’s worth ordering the Doughnuts, the Hummingbird Cake, or the Shine Cake.

You also won’t want to overlook the drink menu if you’re a fan of cocktails and mocktails. Drinks play a big role in the Chef Art Smith culture, so you’ll find a variety of delicious drink options on the menu at Homecomin’, including Shine on Tap with items such as Sweet Tea Shine, Moonshine Margaritas, and Blue Hooch.

Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' fried chicken

A look at the fried chicken from Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. Photo by Jen Marrazzo

Pro Tip: Purchase the Souvenir Squeeze bottle for $22, which includes your drink of choice. You’ll be able to bring the bottle back every visit and get it filled for only $13 with your favorite drink!

Know Before You Go

Pros

  • Amazing comfort food
  • Relaxed atmosphere
  • Fun drinks 

Cons:

  • Reservations are hard to get 

2. The Boathouse

The Boathouse dining area

You’ll have a great view while dining at The Boathouse. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Located right across from Wine Bar George and next to Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar, The Boathouse is a top Disney Springs restaurant that cannot be missed. Offering seafood options galore in a gorgeous waterfront setting, The Boathouse is home to some unique experiences and dishes.

Known primarily for a selection of seafood offerings, The Boathouse leans into fish for many of its main dishes. However, those who aren’t fans of seafood will also find plenty they can enjoy on the menu – it also features steak, chops, pasta, and more for everyone and every taste.

The appetizers are a delicious way to kick off your meal, with classic picks that include a Raw Bar with Oysters, Yellowfin Tuna Poke, Wedge Salads, Lobster Bisque Soup, and a variety of fresh salads. 

Entrees run the gamut from sandwiches (don’t skip the Filet Mignon Sliders!) to Dockside Classics like the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake. You’ll also want to check out the Market Fresh Fish selection, which includes tasty choices like Cedar Planked Gulf of Maine Salmon, Gulf of Mexico Red Grouper, and Coriander Seared Yellowfin Tuna.

If your mouth isn’t watering yet, take a peek at the dessert menu! There, you’ll find classic sweets like Key Lime Pie in a Mason Jar, a Triple Chocolate Layer Cake, and a Pineapple Upside Cake to round out your meal.

And if you’d like an amazing alcoholic beverage, this is the place to find one. Aside from a wide variety of wines and beers, the Boathouse is home to some signature cocktails like the Blueberry Lemonade, the Shipwreck, and the Duck Duck Razz. Did we mention the Duck Duck Razz includes a rubber ducky as decor?

The Boathouse Duck Duck Razz

The Duck Duck Razz and its rubber duck accessory. Photo y Jenn Marrazzo

Know Before You Go

Pros:

  • Variety of seafood options
  • Unique drinks
  • Beautiful view and atmosphere 

Cons:

  • Smaller-than-normal portion sizes

3. Wine Bar George

Wine Bar George exterior

Photo by Courtney Reynolds

Located right near the ever popular Gideon’s Bakehouse, Wine Bar George offers guests delectable wines and pairings for any palette. Created by Master Sommelier George Miliotes, who can often be found in the restaurant pouring wines for guests, Wine Bar George’s menu takes a unique spin on dinner. It’s a must-visit restaurant at Disney Springs if you’re looking for a truly special night out – and wine enthusiasts will really love this spot!

Known primarily for tapas appetizers such as Saganaki on Fire, House-Made Meatballs, Roasted Pork Belly, and Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites, Wine Bar George does appetizers well. Everything on the menu is designed to be paired with the perfect glass of wine, too, rounding out the experience. 

If these bites aren’t enough, guests can order larger dishes like the Grilled Ribeye or Bell & Evans Chicken Breast. Those looking to share with the table can also opt for a family-style plate that serves two to four guests. Family style offerings include Skirt Steak and Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass.

And when you’re ready for something sweet, Wine Bar George also serves dessert items such as Key Lime Pie and Olive Oil Cake.

In terms of drinks, there are just too many wines to mention! Here, you’ll have expert recommendations and perfect pours readily available. But, if you’re looking to go beyond wine, there’s also a selection of standout drinks. You definitely don’t want to miss the Frosé or the Frozcato, which is made with Dole Whip Pineapple.

Wine Bar George family plate

A look at one of the family-style menu options at Wine Bar George.

What to Know Before You Go

Pros:

  • Easy access
  • Delicious appetizers
  • Amazing drinks (wine and more)

Cons:

  • Limited entree menu with just two offerings

Of course, these restaurants are just three of the top options you can try at Disney Springs! There are plenty of other delicious spots to stop and grab a bite or a drink. Discover more to try at Disney Springs restaurants below:

Healthy Options at Disney Springs This Month (And Beyond!)

Meet Executive Sous Chef Takeshi Ikeuchi of Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs

Written by Jenn Marrazzo

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Jennifer Marrazzo is a writer and adjunct professor and knows way too many facts about Disney and cruises. She’s a DVC Member and WDW Annual Passholder and has a vast collection of Disney merchandise from Beauty and the Beast to Baby Yoda. Jennifer has her own blog, The Happiest Travels on Earth, where she offers reviews and tips for Disney and cruises!
Jenn Marrazzo

Written by Jenn Marrazzo

Jennifer Marrazzo is a writer and adjunct professor and knows way too many facts about Disney and cruises. She’s a DVC Member and WDW Annual Passholder and has a vast collection of Disney merchandise from Beauty and the Beast to Baby Yoda. Jennifer has her own blog, The Happiest Travels on Earth, where she offers reviews and tips for Disney and cruises!