If you think Walt Disney World is nothing but hot dogs and chicken nuggets, come sit by me. And if you think it’s nothing more than screaming children and chaos, come sit by me and bring your date. Because I’ve got a nice little list of special places to send you.
Walt Disney World has absolutely no shortage of wonderful, romantic spots. So if you’re looking for a lovely date night, look no further. I’ve got you covered with a spot for each month and two extra.
1. Monsieur Paul in the France Pavilion at Epcot
I’ll never understand why Monsieur Paul in the France Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase doesn’t get more love. Setting aside Japan, it might be my absolute favorite ADR spot in all of Epcot. Sitting a story above ground level, you’re far removed from the bustle of the park to a place where you can enjoy a glass of wine or champagne and an excellent meal with your person.
2. Todd English’s bluezoo at the Dolphin
Without question one of the best dining experiences in all of Walt Disney World – even if it is technically “off property” at the Dolphin Hotel. Todd English’s bluezoo is one of our go to special occasion spots – as much for the ambiance as for the oysters, Cantonese lobster, and miso glazed mero.
3. Jiko at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Very few restaurants come to mind quicker than Jiko when the topic is romance. This dimly lit restaurant at the gorgeous Animal Kingdom Lodge is loaded with incredible food and views of AKL’s savannah. Try to go before sunset to see the animals and stay through dark for the mood that takes over after the sun goes down. Then stroll over to Victoria Falls Lounge for a drink at one of the loveliest spots on property.
4. Narcoossees at the Grand Floridian
The only thing better than the views at Narcoossees are the food and the peace and quiet. Go early to enjoy the surrounding deck and castle view and stay for every course that you can fit in.
And pro tip? Don’t miss the shrimp and grits. It will change your life.
5. Nomad Lounge at Animal Kingdom
Don’t get me wrong – the attached Tiffins is wonderful and equally worthy of a spot on this list. But there’s just something about this more casual spot that draws me in. If the weather isn’t too hot, grab a spot in the outdoor section and cuddle on the cushioned loveseats under overhead fans. Then enjoy some fabulous drinks and shareable plates together.
6. Capa at the Four Seasons
I’ve raved about the Four Season’s Ravello before – but if you want to kick it up another notch for date night, head upstairs to Capa. The food and drinks here are spectacular – but the views of all four parks are second to none. You’ll be far removed from the noise of the parks but able to enjoy every firework show as you cuddle on the outdoor seats for a drink after dinner. And on cooler nights, there are beautiful fire towers to warm you up.
7. Wine Bar George in Disney Springs
A bit more relaxed but every bit as deserving of a spot on this list is the still-relatively-new Wine Bar George at Disney Springs. This spot is gorgeous inside and all about the details. And it’s not rare that you’ll see George himself wandering around making sure that everything inside is on point.
8. The Garden View Lounge at the Grand Floridian
If your date night is more of a date afternoon, do not miss high tea together at the Garden View Lounge. And if you really want to kick the experience up a notch, add the champagne and caviar. It’s one of those experiences on property that you’ll never forget.
9. Morimoto at Disney Springs
What could possibly be more romantic than sushi and Peking Duck under the long hanging lights of Morimoto in Disney Springs? An evening here never disappoints – whether we’re seated downstairs at the tables or relaxing in the lounge area upstairs. Especially when their sangria is involved.
10. Flying Fish at the Boardwalk
Oh Flying Fish – how do I love you? This restaurant has always been a standout signature spot but since its remodel it’s easily among the top spots on my list. The food is wonderful, the space is gorgeous, the service is outstanding – and it doesn’t hurt that it’s located at one of my favorite places on property. Enjoy your meal here – but save room for a stroll after to take in the views and Boardwalk entertainment.
11. California Grill at the Contemporary
But when it comes to romantic spots – there’s one place that has it all. California Grill at the top of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This gorgeous space has some of the best food around, impeccable service, and – to top it all off – perhaps the best view of the fireworks anywhere. They pump the music in, too – so you can enjoy the full experience while you eat and drink, or stroll outside to the outdoor landing to get a closer view.
12. Victoria & Albert’s at the Grand Floridian
But even without its fireworks view, nothing – and I mean nothing – says special occasion date night like Victoria & Albert’s. This adults only spot is the only place in Walt Disney World where children under 12 aren’t even allowed to enter. And while the bill at the end of the night makes this a very, very rare treat (to say the least), it’s something that every couple should experience once if at all possible. Add the wine pairing while you’re at it. And plan to take an Uber home.
Honorable Mentions off the Beaten Path:
13. Geyser Point at Wilderness Lodge
So very different from everything on our list so far – but Geyser Point comes up often here for a reason. It’s so casual and lovely. The food is relaxed but excellent. The drinks are good. And the view, especially if you take your food outside by the water, is second to none. If your “date night” is more like a “date hour” in the afternoon, this is a perfect way to spend it.
14. Splitsville at Disney Springs
And speaking of different from the rest, I cannot end this list without mentioning Splitsville. I’ve raved about it before and I’m about to do it again – because this place is so, so much fun, and boasts some of the most surprisingly excellent food (including sushi!) around. If you want to do more with your honey than sit at a table, come here. And as a bonus, the AMC theaters at Disney Springs are right next door, so you can make it a movie night too!!
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So now that you’ve seen my list, I want to hear from you!! What’s your favorite spot on property for a date night?
