Ready for a Romantic Dinner? Bon Appetit!

Whether you’re getting married at Disney World or celebrating an important milestone anniversary, there’s nothing quite like walking into the parks for the first time on your trip. The first dinner you have can set the tone for your entire visit. Let’s take a look at some truly special and romantic spots to have your welcome dinner.

Le Cellier

Located in Epcot’s World Showcase, Le Cellier has a wonderful combination of standard Disney theming and elegance. The mood lighting will make you feel that you’re in a warm, inviting Canadian lodge, and there’s an overall fun and whimsical feeling to the restaurant – all without diminishing the romance.

The menu is divine and includes everything you’d expect from a fine steakhouse. Fan favorites include the pretzel bread and cheddar soup, and the NY strip steak and filet are highly recommend as well. End your meal with the maple Crème Brulee and pair it with a delicious Mount Blanc Semifreddo.

Le Cellier is a great choice for beer drinkers who want to try some unique beers you won’t often see in the states, including numerous Unibroue varieties.

Romance Factor: Moderate. You’re likely to see more couples and fewer families at this spot, compared to other Disney restaurants. While the mood lighting does create an enchanting and inviting atmosphere, the tables can be somewhat close together which makes this spot less intimate than it could be.

California Grill

Locatedat the Contemporary Resort, this restaurant offers the perfect ambiance. With sophisticated, newly remodeled décor, incredible views via the floor to ceiling windows that overlook the Magic Kingdom, and an impeccable staff who handles every need, this is an experience you won’t have anywhere else in the world.

The food here is consistently rated as some of the best in any Disney restaurant. The sushi is delicious, the flatbreads are unique, and the entrees are divine – especially the oak-fired filet of beef. The desserts and cocktails are whimsical and a perfect way to end the meal.

Romance Factor: High. If you want your welcome dinner to make you feel like you’re at a special event, then California Grill is the place to be.

Tip: Make a reservation about 60 minutes before the nightly fireworks display at the Magic Kingdom theme park tickets. Get to your reservation a little early and wait for a window table to become available. When you’re just finishing up your entrees, you can gaze out the window at one of the best fireworks displays in the world. They even pump the music in through the restaurant speakers so you get the full experience.

Monsieur Paul

Once known as Bistro de Paris, this restaurant is quite different than any other restaurant you’ll visit in the Disney parks. Located in the France pavilion at Epcot, the ambiance lends a truly classy feel to the place. Though some patrons will be dressed up for a night out, you should also expect plenty of other guests to be wearing their typical theme park attire.

The food here is classic French, and a Prix Fixe menu is available. Frequent guests claim that the grilled beef tenderloin with mushroom crust, accompanied by mashed potatoes and a Bordelaise sauce, is the best entrée here hands down. Though it is considered to be a “Signature” restaurant by Disney’s standards, it’s actually quite reasonably priced compared to other choices on this list.

Romance Factor: High. This quiet tranquility and upscale décor come together to create one of the most romantic spots on Disney property. Though you won’t have the excitement of fireworks outside the window, you will feel that you’ve stepped out of Disney and into an elegant French bistro.

Victoria & Albert’s

If you’re looking for exceptional food paired with an ambiance that can’t be beat – and you’re willing to pay a premium price – there’s no better option than Victoria & Albert’s. Located at Disney’s Grand Floridian resort, it’s the only AAA 5-Diamond restaurant in all of central Florida. The restaurant is quiet and intimate, the service is over-the-top, and yet it’s not stuffy or intimidating.

This restaurant does not allow guests under 10 years old, so you’re in for an adults-only evening of some of the best food you’ll ever eat. A fixed price meal is available for $125 per person, with an optional $60 per person wine pairing.

Romance Factor: The Highest. For a truly no-holds-barred experience, reserve the Chef’s Table. These reservations go quickly, but if you snag one in time you’ll be in for a private dinner in the kitchen with your own personal service and specially prepared food by the chef – who will deliver and explain it himself.

Jiko

Located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jambo House, this restaurant is yet another unique spot you’ll have a hard time comparing to other romantic dinners. It’s dark – very dark, in fact – and gorgeous. A wall in the back of the restaurant slowly changes colors as it gets later, to simulate the Africa sunset. The dark glossy woods and sensual colors come together to create a romantic and cozy atmosphere.

The food is also a special experience, and is best suited for a couple who’s willing to experiment with new flavors. The dishes change frequently and all reflect African staple ingredients, though there are a few options for the less adventurous, like flatbreads and steaks. Regulars love the grilled and marinated lamb loin and braised beef short rib.

Romance Factor: High. This is the perfect choice for the couple who wants an affordable, delicious, special meal – and who doesn’t want to make reservations months in advance.