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The Ultimate Guide to Magic Kingdom Dining: Ranking ALL Sit-Down Restaurants

Writer's picture: Chrissa KarnesChrissa Karnes

Statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse in front of Cinderella's castle, surrounded by visitors. Blue sky, pink flowers, festive atmosphere.

Magic Kingdom is home to some of the most iconic rides and attractions in Disney World—but the restaurants here can be just as magical!


Over the years, I’ve had the chance to try all eight sit-down restaurants in Magic Kingdom, and today, I’m ranking them from my least favorite to my absolute favorite.


Now, just to be clear—I don’t think any of these restaurants are bad. This is just my personal ranking based on my own experiences, including the food, atmosphere, and overall vibe.


So, grab your fork and get ready—because here’s how I would rank every table-service restaurant in Magic Kingdom!


#8 – The Plaza Restaurant




Overview & Atmosphere



The Plaza Restaurant is a charming, turn-of-the-century, Victorian-style eatery at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. With its elegant yet casual atmosphere, it feels like a quaint, old-fashioned café where you can take a break from the hustle of the park while enjoying classic American comfort food.





What We Like

  • The Triple Decker Turkey Club Sandwich is a standout.

  • Hand-scooped ice cream sundaes and milkshakes are fantastic.

  • Offers a relaxing escape with a great view of Cinderella Castle.


What Could Be Better

  • Minimal theming compared to other Disney dining experiences.

  • Limited and basic menu (mostly sandwiches, salads, and burgers).

  • Small and noisy dining space, making it feel cramped during peak hours.


#7 – Tony’s Town Square



Overview & Atmosphere



Located right at the entrance of Magic Kingdom, Tony’s Town Square is an Italian-American eatery inspired by Lady and the Tramp. It has a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with subtle nods to the film.




What We Like

  • Lady and the Tramp theming adds a charming touch.

  • Tiramisu Cannolis and Tony’s Garlic Bread are delicious.

  • Prime location makes it a convenient stop.


What Could Be Better

  • Overpriced Italian food ($26 for Spaghetti and Meatballs).

  • Minimal immersive theming beyond a few decorative touches.


#6 – The Diamond Horseshoe




Overview & Atmosphere

The Diamond Horseshoe is a Western-style saloon that serves up an all-you-care-to-enjoy, family-style feast in Liberty Square.




What We Like

  • Hearty Thanksgiving-style meal (turkey, pot roast, stuffing, mashed potatoes).

  • Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake is one of the best desserts in Disney.

  • Easier reservations since it’s often overlooked.


What Could Be Better

  • No live entertainment, making the space feel empty.

  • Heavy food may not be ideal in Florida’s heat.


#5 – Liberty Tree Tavern



Overview & Atmosphere

Liberty Tree Tavern, located next to The Diamond Horseshoe, is a colonial-style restaurant that transports guests to 18th-century New England with six historically themed rooms.




What We Like

  • Same delicious Thanksgiving-style meal as Diamond Horseshoe.

  • More immersive and themed atmosphere.

  • Great for history buffs with early American décor.


What Could Be Better

  • Heavy meal may slow you down during a park day.


#4 – Skipper Canteen



Overview & Atmosphere

Located in Adventureland, Skipper Canteen brings the humor and adventure of Jungle Cruise into a dining experience, with hidden details and Jungle Cruise Skippers as servers.




What We Like

  • Adventurous, globally inspired menu (Baa Baa Lamb Chops, Hardy Har Char Siu Pork).

  • Fantastic theming and Jungle Cruise Easter eggs.

  • Servers add fun jokes and playfulness.


What Could Be Better

  • Could lean even more into the Jungle Cruise theming.


#3 – Be Our Guest



Overview & Atmosphere

Set inside Beast’s Castle in Fantasyland, Be Our Guest is one of the most immersive dining experiences in Magic Kingdom.



What We Like

  • Stunning theming (Grand Ballroom, West Wing, Rose Gallery).

  • Elevated French-inspired cuisine (Filet Mignon, French Onion Sour, The Grey Stuff).

  • Occasional appearances by the Beast.


What Could Be Better

  • Expensive prix fixe menu ($70+ per adult).

  • Difficult to secure reservations.

  • Limited character interactions.


#2 – The Crystal Palace



Overview & Atmosphere

The Crystal Palace is a bright and elegant Victorian-style buffet that offers character dining with Winnie the Pooh and friends.




What We Like

  • Great character interactions with Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, and Eeyore.

  • Beautiful conservatory-style atmosphere.

  • Diverse buffet with quality options (Mickey waffles, carved meats, fresh pastries).


What Could Be Better

  • Crowded and noisy, especially during peak meal times.

  • Difficult reservations due to popularity.


#1 – Cinderella’s Royal Table



Overview & Atmosphere

Located inside the legendary Cinderella Castle, this storybook dining experience is the most enchanting in Magic Kingdom.




What We Like

  • Dining inside Cinderella Castle is a bucket-list experience.

  • Meet-and-greet with Cinderella and four other princesses.

  • Special magical touches (wishing star, souvenir sword, autograph cards).

  • Elegant prix fixe menu (Filet Mignon, Roasted Lamb Chops, Clock Strikes Twelve Dark Chocolate Mousse).


What Could Be Better

  • Expensive ($80+ per adult).

  • One of the hardest dining reservations to secure.


FAQs About Magic Kingdom Dining


What is the hardest restaurant to get a reservation for in Magic Kingdom?

Cinderella’s Royal Table is the most in-demand reservation, followed by Be Our Guest and The Crystal Palace.


Which table-service restaurant has the best character interactions?

The Crystal Palace offers the best character dining experience with multiple interactions with Winnie the Pooh and friends.


What is the best restaurant for a budget-friendly meal?

The Plaza Restaurant is one of the more affordable sit-down options, although it still comes at a Disney premium.


Which restaurant has the most immersive atmosphere?

Be Our Guest and Cinderella’s Royal Table offer the most magical theming.


Conclusion


Magic Kingdom has some truly special dining experiences, whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience inside Cinderella Castle, a fun Jungle Cruise-inspired meal, or a classic character buffet. While all of these restaurants offer something unique, my top choice remains Cinderella’s Royal Table for its unforgettable atmosphere and magical moments.

Which restaurant is YOUR favorite at Magic Kingdom? Let me know in the comments!

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