Welcome to planDisney, Melissa, and congratulations on your upcoming graduation! That's such an incredible accomplishment, and there's no better place to celebrate than Walt Disney World. Whether you're picturing a casual dinner with family and friends or a special signature dining experience, there are some truly magical spots outside the theme parks that are perfect for a group celebration.
If you're looking for something a bit more laid-back but still super delicious, I highly recommend
Boma - Flavors of Africa at
Animal Kingdom Lodge. It's a buffet-style restaurant with a huge variety of options, and the vibrant atmosphere is perfect for celebrating. Plus, it's one of the easier places to snag a reservation for a larger group. You'll also get the added bonus of wandering out to the savanna overlook to see giraffes and zebras before or after your meal!
Another fan favorite is
'Ohana at the
Polynesian. The food is served family-style, the vibe is relaxed and fun, and you'll be close enough to
Magic Kingdom to enjoy a great view of
Happily Ever After during or after your dinner. Just note that it's a popular spot, so reservations may be trickier to come by. You can try breaking your party into a few smaller reservations at similar times and request to be seated together when you arrive, or give Disney Dining a call at (407) WDW-DINE, and a Cast Member can help with a larger group booking.
If you're looking to treat yourself to something a bit more upscale, check out
Cítricos at the
Grand Floridian. It's beautiful, elegant, and the menu is fantastic. Or, head over to
Jaleo by José Andrés in
Disney Springs, which is a lively, modern spot with Spanish small plates that are perfect for sharing. Disney Springs is a great choice overall because it doesn't require park tickets, has tons of group-friendly restaurants, and even allows some reservations through OpenTable, which can sometimes be easier for coordinating larger parties.
And if you're dreaming even bigger, maybe a private event or something beyond what a regular restaurant reservation can handle,
Disney Meetings & Events can help you plan a custom celebration, complete with private dining rooms or even catered events.
No matter what you choose, you're going to have the most magical graduation celebration ever!
Jessica