Hi Chris! Welcome to planDisney. One of the best parts of any Disneyland Resort vacation (aside from the attractions, of course) is the food! From Mickey-shaped snacks to elegant, sit-down meals, there’s something for every palate, and I’m happy to help you plan how to enjoy it all.
If there are specific restaurants you absolutely want to experience, I definitely recommend booking those in advance. Popular spots such as
Carthay Circle Restaurant and
Lamplight Lounge in Disney California Adventure, or
Carnation Café and
Blue Bayou Restaurant in Disneyland, tend to fill up quickly. Reservations open 60 days in advance, so I suggest marking that date on your calendar and logging into your Disney account early that morning to secure your preferred times. These locations offer not only delicious meals but also uniquely Disney atmospheres, from dining beside the gentle glow of the Pirates of the Caribbean lagoon to savoring a delightful meal alongside Paradise Bay.
If reservations are unavailable at first, don’t worry! Availability often changes as Guests adjust their plans. I recommend checking back regularly, especially in the week leading up to your visit. You can also use the Mobile Dine Walk-Up Availability feature in the
Disneyland app. Simply open the app, search for your desired restaurant, and if same-day space is available, join the list right from your phone. My wife and I have had great luck with this, once nabbing a walk-up table at Lamplight Lounge just in time for sunset and their famous lobster nachos (which I highly recommend!)
For Guests who prefer spontaneity, Disneyland’s quick-service dining options are full of flavor and charm. In Disney California Adventure, Flo’s V8 Café is a personal favorite, especially if you grab a seat on the back patio overlooking Radiator Springs Racers. It’s a postcard-perfect view at dusk. Over in Disneyland, The Golden Horseshoe offers hearty bites and a cozy atmosphere with a view from its second-story balcony, perfect for relaxing between adventures.
No matter how you dine, Chris, you’re sure to enjoy something delicious and memorable. Whether it’s a beignet in New Orleans Square or a cold brew beneath the lights of Main Street, every meal adds its own touch of magic to your visit.
Bon appétit and have a truly magical trip!
David