4 Underrated Walt Disney World Restaurants To Try

There are certain Walt Disney World restaurants that get all the (totally justifiable!) hype. Cinderella's Royal Table, Be Our Guest, the list goes on and on. (In fact, I have an entire blog post dedicated to some of the best romantic restaurants!) Sometimes, those hard-to-get reservations elude us. I've found these tried-and-true hidden gem dining spots for those days where you're in a pinch and need a reservation quickly!

The Wave
The Wave...of American Flavors is located at Disney's Contemporary Resort. If you're dying to check out the Contemporary, this is an exceptional hidden gem. Located just off the lobby, this spot has breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. The food is fresh and there's something for everyone...even for the pickiest of eaters! (Pro tip: if you're there for breakfast, order the sweet potato pancakes...then be prepared to fall in love!)

​Whispering Canyon
Whispering Canyon Cafe is located in the lobby at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. Here, they're known for the phenomenal all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets for breakfast lunch, and dinner, though you can order an entree a la carte if you'd like. The name of this restaurant is definitely misleading, because this sounds about as far from "whispering" as you can get! Be prepared for some silly shenanigans from your waitstaff. (Of course, if you don't want to participate in the hijinks, just let them know! It's still a lot of fun to watch!)

nGrand Floridian Cafe
Located at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, this elegant yet unpretentious eatery offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The lobster "thermidor" burger is found on each menu and is a must-try! You can find this restaurant on the main floor of the Grand Floridian.

Kona Cafe
​Serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the Kona Cafe at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is truly a hidden gem. The atmosphere is relaxed and you can expect Asian influences into traditional American cuisine. There is an onstage sushi kitchen, but the real stars of the show are the famous Tonga Toast at breakfast and the cocktail menu during lunch and dinner. Since 'Ohana has not yet reopened (I'm holding back tears as I type!), you'll be happy to know that cocktails like the Lapu Lapu and the Backscratcher are served here. For the best non-alcoholic drink around, make sure to order a liliko'i juice! (a.k.a. POG juice!)
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Bonus Tip: Lounges
One of the most hidden gems of all are the lounges adjacent to some of the best restaurants on Disney property. Some of the best lounges to visit include:

• Tambu Lounge (Disney's Polynesian Village Resort) - adjacent to the Kona Cafe and still-closed 'Ohana. You may even be able to snag some 'Ohana favorites: noodles, mixed-grill kebob, and even the infamous bread pudding.
• Sanaa Lounge (Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - Kidani Village) - adjacent to Sanaa, you can find cuisine inspired by the signature restaurant, as well as a huge offering of South African wines. Better yet, you can also order some of the famous bread service at the lounge!
• Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge (Disney's Hollywood Studios) - this small outdoor lounge adjacent to the Hollywood Brown Derby gives you access to the restaurant's menu in addition the lounge's small plates, including the famous Cobb salad.
• Lounge at California Grill (Disney's Contemporary Resort) - the creme de le creme of Disney lounges, this one is at the California Grill atop the Contemporary. Seating is limited, but if you're lucky enough to snag a spot, you'll have access to the entire menu and all of the perks of a Cali Grill diner!