• On Oct 17, 2020
    Kayla from OK Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    My Hubby, Son 6,Daughter 3.5 & I are 1st timers this Dec. To kick off vacay w/o using park pass, where's the BEST evening restraunt for 1st day that FEELS like Disney?

    A perfectly pixie-dusted welcome to planDisney to you and your family, Kayla!

    First timers? I am so excited for you!

    There are so many magical things to see and do at Walt Disney World, and starting off your vacation with a truly unique dining experience will be a wonderful way to begin!

    For a super-special meal that's perfect for each member in your party, check out T-REX at Disney Springs. Like a Rainforest Cafe--also located at Disney Springs--T-REX offers an amazingly detailed environment that will give the kiddos something to watch the entire time you're dining. Here, though, everything is prehistoric! Your dino-fans will be thrilled by being surrounded by so many Jurassic buddies...and the recurring meteor shower never gets old. My kids absolutely loved it. Even better? The menu! Be sure to save room for the Chocolate Extinction (serves four)--you've never seen anything like it. :-) 

    If you haven't experienced Rainforest Cafe, my kids always enjoyed Rainforest Cafe at Disney Springs Marketplace, too. The aquarium alone kept my kids enamored, but that gigantic menu is spectacular, as well.

    For something completely different--but truly incredible--consider dining at Sanaa, located at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village. One of my family's favorite Walt Disney World restaurants, Sanaa offers a truly unique menu, with delicious options for every palate. Set alongside Sunset Savanna, you'll even get to marvel at some four-legged friends while you dine. Before or after dinner, head out to the overlook for a closer view. We've spent hours doing just that.

    If you head over to Disney's Beach Club Resort, consider a visit to Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, where you'll find some fabulous sandwiches, the best onion rings I've ever tasted, and ice cream treats like nowhere else on Earth.

    All of these Advanced Dining Locations are situated in areas that do not require a Theme Park Ticket; however, all do require Advanced Dining Reservations. As such, take a look at availability, keeping in mind your arrival time on that first day and building in a little extra wiggle room in case you are a delayed a bit. Because each is located at either Disney Springs or a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you'll be surrounded by beautiful Disney theming both before and after dining; this will let you know that you have, in fact, arrived at The Most Magical Place on Earth. 

    As you plan this monumental first visit ever, Kayla, be sure to send additional questions our way. We love to help!

    Andrea
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Meet the Panelist: Andrea, Pennsylvania

I am a teacher, wife and mom who has been a member of the Disney Vacation Club since 2003. I love discovering a new favorite DVC resort, fantastic restaurant or hidden gem onboard a Disney ship! I'm a micro-planner who can help you capture your own magic! Learn More About Andrea

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