Most Overrated Walt Disney World Restaurants!
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- Опубліковано 9 лют 2025
- Okay, so we all love Walt Disney World right? Cool. So do we. But we do think that some of the restaurants might be a little overrated and overhyped...
These aren't necessarily the worst restaurants in Disney, just ones that don't live up to their own reputations!
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I totally agree with the rainforest cafe one, it's awful! Cold, loud, bad food and rude servers!
I don't really think of Rainforest Cafe as a Disney restaurant because I'm pretty sure they are their own thing but Disney just lets them have a presence on property. Sorta like Planet Hollywood and House of Blues.
Really, I dont remember having any of the complaints when my family and I went
I agree with your list! I have never been to Sanaa but all the rest I have. I describe Rainforest and Trex as a overpriced Applebee's/ Friday's.
YES! That is what they are. They could of done so much with the theme. I just feel that they are just falling back on the fact that it is a well known chain and not thinking too much about the food quality.
I feel I must defend Sci-Fi Dine-In's honour :) Not only did I enjoy it, but it was my favourite thing in Hollywood Studios, rides and attractions included. I thought it very wonderfully captured the atmosphere of a 50's drive-in, with suitable food, and I liked the clip show. But I can see how one wouldn't like it if that entire premise wasn't really what you want. Like, yes, it's not a place to go to have an intimate dinner and conversation with your partner. It's a place to sit in a fake car, have a big greasy burger and a milkshake, and imagine you're at a drive-in. Yes if you expected a whole movie you'd be disappointed, but if you enjoy the images, graphics, ads, etc. of the 50's drive-in experience (and are familiar enough with 50's Sci-Fi films to know where the clips are from), it's a fun little show. I think it's great, but it's a certain KIND of great that you have to want to check out. I would definitely recommend it, but with a qualified description of how it is a themed dinner experience and not simply a restaurant.
Yes I agree!! I love the look of this restaurant and sometimes I just want to eat and not have to keep talking to everyone so my family loves this place. We also love watching the movie clips. I always eat the same thing, but their reuben sandwich is great!
Oh absolutely! It's definitely got to be a qualified recommendation. This made the list purely because when we were planning for this trip it was recommended several times without any qualification, and without us expressing an interest in the theme! I can totally see the appeal though if you're in the mood for that.
That Sounds Fun Which goes to show that when someone recommends something, you always need to ask why :)
I can see why some people wouldn't like it. It is dark and yes it isn't good for personal interaction. But if you are nostalgic about drive-in movies, it's great!!!
I completely agree.
I really enjoyed this! These kinds of videos can really upset some people, but it's nice to know before you go because you just know you'll be the 1 in 100 who have a bad experience. We booked Sanaa but recently cancelled it so phew! I think this is the kind of video we'll make when we get back, being massive foodies too :) Emma and Jacob x
+Emma + Jacob we tried not to be too harsh. Haha but I am not going to sugar coat it if I didn't like it. Yes do one! Maybe you could recommend or not recommend places we haven't been to yet.
Good, I hate when people say something is "good", you fork out for it and it's naff, and then they speak up. And yes, we will do! Jacob's been 13 times, but this is my first so hopefully between us we'll find somewhere you haven't been x
I went to Jiko a few years back and it was AMAZING! I had an unforgettable experience. You can see the chef cook in the middle of the room. They give you rose water towels to cleanse your hands with. They also gave us creamed broccoli soup with créme fresca on top. Soooooo so good!
I have heard some great things. It is for sure on our list for next time!
Just love this video, i love some of the restaurants that you dont, like flame grill but everyone has their own opinion and i loved hearing yours, just a great video like always
+Rachel Butcher Thank you! It is just our opinion at the end of the day and I know loads of people love these restaurants. There are also some that I love that I know other people hate. That's just because they are wrong. Hahaha 😜
Loving the videos! Keep it up!! ☺️
+Lennon Wood thank you!
This was useful, thanks guys! Enjoying your videos x
Thank you!
Enjoyed your honest reviews! Would love to see the flip side and a video where you recommend a restaurant in place of each of these ones! Thanks for sharing! :-)
We've got a Top 5 Quick Service and a Top 5 Table Service video on our Walt Disney World Planning Videos! playlist, so if you're interested what we think, check them out! We talked about putting some recommended alternatives in this video, but they haven't changed from that list really!!
Great video yet again. I always agree with you two:) I had a rough day this video made me forget about it for a bit, thanks for making these.💗🍽
Also, Sarah cracks me up, and so cute at the end!
She is pretty funny! Sometimes! But don't tell her I said that.
Great video as always. Thanks for the reviews.
+sonya stodghill thanks for watching!
Have you ever been to the 50s prime time cafe ??
Motor mad!!!! That shit is dope the fried chicken👌👌👌👌👌👌
I love their pot pie!!
Had the roast, it was really good. The atmosphere is entertaining
Júles didiott yeah, the food was total shit
Hmm you've made me think on our list of where we want to eat next year! We are going as a couple with no kids like you guys, and pretty much have the same set up as you where i'm a fussy eater and my husband really likes his food! We have mainly got on our list places that we are going for the experience rather than the food. Sci-fi is on there which we will be keeping but we also had Le Cellier, T-Rex and Rainforest Cafe! You've confused me now guys, thanks for that! Haha
Snap! 🤔 x
+Fiona Whittle I'm really sorry. By all means try them! They are not terrible and I have spoken to loads of people that love them. Just in my personal opinion they are overrated. Doesn't mean that you won't have a great time!!
You don't need to apologise! I've just watched your fave restaurants video and we have most of them on our list so that's a bonus. Plus now if i think they're rubbish i can blame you guys as you said they were good :-D. Only kidding. It's a whole new world with this 180 days booking malarkey. Anybody else would think we were ridiculous for knowing where we were going to eat each day 6 months ahead of time, unless it was a Michelin restaurant!
I've been to Disney world quite a few times so when friends or family that haven't been there ask me for dining suggestions I've learned how to talk about each restaurants strengths and weaknesses. everyone has different tastes.
I don't want to be the person that gets fussed at because the restaurant that I recommended wasn't what they expected. ;)
That's a great way to recommend places!
My family loved the Sci-fi Diner, but my husband and daughter love old sci-fi movies and my daughter loved "driving" us around. The food was OK, but not the greatest
I will weigh in on the restaurants that I have eaten at:
Le Cellier is good but WAY overpriced
Sci-Fi Drive In was great, the onion rings were cooked perfectly and we really enjoyed it. I had a good burger and a nice cocktail to go with it. We liked the car and the clips of the old B movies. A nice dark place to get out of the sun.
Rainforest Cafe is the worst food. It was too dark, too loud, and IT WAS TOO COLD.
TheLindsaySue the rainforest is always loud, I love the cold because I'm always worm lol. But I actually surprised that our food was soo good. It's definitely not my top pick of places to go eat.
WE were sp looking forward to Le Cellier but we had the worst experience ever there in 2011. It was so bad we refuse to try it again
When we went to Disney World, we ate at two sit down restaurants - the buffet at the Animal Kingdom resort and the Rain Forest Cafe at Downtown Disney. We didn't like the food at either. I really enjoyed the counter service places a lot more.
+Elizabeth Hoyle I really enjoy counter service. You just know what to expect. I think next time we just need to mange our expectations a little better!
I am so glad to hear that feedback on Sanaa -- my husband and I were incredibly disappointed with how bland the food was. We also did not think Flame Tree BBQ lived up to the hype. In general, we've come to the conclusion that we must be food snobs, because we've actually liked very few table service restaurants in Disney World (California Grill and Via Napoli being the exceptions). This is where I have a dilemma: we have reservations for Le Cellier on our trip next week! Haha and now I'm considering either moving them to the Yachtsman (which we've never tried) or just cancelling them altogether. We're just tired of being disappointed in the "must try" restaurants! Kudos to your for making a potentially controversial video!
+JamiesGirl1990 I don't want to over hype it for you but sounds like we have similar tastes. We also enjoyed the California Grill and also equally enjoyed Yachtsman. We did have the filet mignon so can't comment on the other entrees but the food and sides we ordered were really good! So if you were looking to get steak, we were really impressed with it.
I was part of the Trex opening team in 2008, and worked for them for 4 years. They have the worst food in Disney Springs and you're both right, it's too loud and too scary for young kids.
Le Cellier doesn't even offer a genuine poutine experience, from what I've seen. I live in Canada anyway, so I can replicate an entire nearly $100 meal from Le Cellier with stuff from the grocery store for less than half the price AND actually get the poutine right.
That's a shame, we stuck with the steak after hearing that it may not be that "authentic". I'm looking forward to travelling to Canada one day to get some of the proper stuff!!
One place my husband and I enjoyed was the restaurant in the Mexico pyramid. I think it's called San Angel. The food was OK, not the best or worst at Disney, but it was quiet, and the restaurant itself was just pretty. We enjoyed our time there. I'm not going to say you MUST try it, but it was a very pleasant experience for us as 2 adults at Disney alone
I have eaten there. Not with Ash but on one of my previous trips. We got a table by the water. The food was alright but the atmosphere was magical!
Leigh Ann Greenawalt I've been told by a couple of people it's absolute trash
Ryan Morgan different strokes for different folks. Like I said, it wasn't the best or worst, it was just average. Not like eating at Taco Bell, but not like actual Mexican food. More like what you can get at any Chi Chi's or other "Mexican" restaurant in America. But I've still had worse food at Disney.
But I will say that the restaurant itself was peaceful, relaxing, quiet, and pretty
O'hana is the best dinner u will get especially if ur a big eater and always save room for that delicious dessert
It's on our list for the next trip now I feel!
Loved this video, really funny :) slightly concerned that 3 out of the 4 are on my plan for my visit in 2 weeks lol
Ah no I was afraid this would happen! Don't worry too much about it and I'm sure you'll have a great time! :D
I agree with you guys about everything.
I think Le Cellier is still coasting on its reputation from 10+ years ago, when it did have good steaks and it was the only place you could get the cheese soup and pretzel bread. Even back then it was overpriced, though. And for all the comments people make about how pretty the restaurant is, I feel it's kinda...stark.
Sci-Fi Dine In is a fun concept, but the food is super-average. I like Primetime's food and ambience much more.
That's definitely how we feel about it! That it was a "MUST DO" once upon a time, but they haven't kept that up. So it still gets the recommendations and the rave reviews - but just doesn't quite live up to it anymore...
Sounds like inconsistency is the best word to describe the Disney Dining Experience
We agree about Le Cellier, we preferred Yachtsman Steakhouse as well and love it there!
Yachtsman is my favourite!
That Sounds Fun where is yachtsman steakhouse what park?
thank you yes I don't know why people suggest sci-fi dinner
+Josette, obviously. I think because it's a cool theme. It's just a shame it's not as good as it could be.
We had pretty bad service at T-Rex when we went. Very slow service. And the reward for waiting forever for our food: a bland meal. I don't think we will be back.
We are going to do the Sci-Fi theater. It was recommended to the wife so now she's put it on the must eat at location when we go later this year (and yes, the reservation has already been made). I'm baffled as to why this is a table service meal. But she wants to experience it...
I completely agree with your review of Rainforest Café. the theming is cool, but it's loud with inconsistent lighting. The food is Ok but waaaay overpriced. I loved it as a kid, but I don't think I'd be as impressed if I went back now.
The food is definitely one of its biggest let downs!
Hello! My family go to Disney World every year, but we tend to do the same restaurants each time we go, so I was wondering if you could let me know or make a video about some good table service restaurants in the parks and resorts? Thank you :)
We filmed a run down of our favourite quick service and table service restaurants. So if you get a chance definitely check them out!
We are THOROUGHLY offended.... Nah, the only one we've been to together was Flame Tree and it was just ok. Gem enjoyed the ribs, my chicken was just some dry chicken without much actual meat on it.
+Mark & Gem it's definitely not the best BBQ we have ever had. It also was not the best meal I have had in Animal Kingdom which is a shame.
I was recommended T-Rex, I agree with everything you've said! Definitely won't be going back!
+Kate Ballamy it's such a shame because a Dinosaur themed restaurant was such a good idea!
THANK YOU! I despised Sci-Fi! Too dark to see, if you have a reservation after 7 they treat you like crap, a server for another table stood behind us and recited the movie clips word-for-word the entire time instead of tending to their tables; and my plate, which didn't fit on the tiny table, instantly dumped in the floor when the stupid server perched it wrong! So I can't even say if the food was any good. Ninety minutes of waiting and listening to some guy say every single word recited on the screen and all I got for my trouble was a nasty waitress who pretty much laughed as she watched my food hit the floor. The rest of my party said their food was awful, so apparently I didn't miss much. I will avoid that place like the plague on our next visit! Horrible experience!
Super long-winded response (sorry in advance!)
Le Cellier - I'm a little worried about this one. My husband and I went to Disney World on our Honeymoon in 2009 and went here for dinner. However, one of the kids in our wedding party ended up getting the stomach bug and passed it to everyone so we spent the first day and a half of our trip deathly ill. Our Le Cellier reservation happened the night after we started feeling better. So with that in mind, we got there and had a very similar experience to you. It was just... meh. However, we're going back in November 2016 and want to give it another try (and hopefully not get sick this time). Now I'm worried we're still going to be underwhelmed.
Jiko - This one was one of my absolute favorites on our honeymoon trip in 2009. I LOVED this place (we went later in the week and were feeling much better by that point so that helped). The food was delicious and it was nice and quiet (perfect for people without kids). I've never been to Sanaa (I don't even think it was there in 2009) so I can't comment on that, but I definitely think Jiko was great. Boma is pretty good too and gives a nice variety of food.
BBQ - Just commenting that I feel the same way as Sarah about BBQ. I hate when the sauce gets under my finger nails, ugh! LOL
Sci-Fi Drive In - We have two sons now (6 and 4) and I really wanted to take them there thinking they'd love eating in a car. But my sister talked me out of it because she went there and said it was really dark (and probably too scary for them) and the food wasn't great. You seem to agree with her.
My personal most underwhelming restaurant from our Honeymoon trip (which was the most recent time I've been there) was... Cinderella's Castle. We went because we thought it'd be a nice, magical way to celebrate our honeymoon but it really just left us underwhelmed. My food was brought out on the colder side and it wasn't very good. I will say though that I liked the Fairy Godmother's little celebration type thing that she did. But the food was not worth the 2 dining credits.
I just wanted to say, also, that I've been religiously watching you guys since I found you a couple of weeks ago. You are so good at explaining everything and are really helping to give me a good idea of what to expect when we go in November (because I'm sure a lot has changed in the 7 years since I've been there). So thank you for all of the work you do on these videos! You're making my Disney planning a lot easier and more exciting! (and if you read to the end... extra kudos to you! lol)
Love the detailed response! I always love reading about food. Let us know what Le Cellier is like on the re-visit. It was really hard to determine whether what we experienced was the norm or just a random "off"-evening.
We're excited for Jiko next trip, hopefully it'll deliver on what Sanaa underwhelmed us on.
BBQ is literally the messiest thing in the world to eat. I can totally get why you both don't really get on with it. It's a fair comment, but I definitely think it's kind of part of the fun.
I always wanted to do Sci-Fi Dine In, but I'm glad we never got a table after hearing Sarah's experiences with it.
Cinderella's Castle is one that we both read this comment, looked at each other and said "OMG YES". I can't believe we missed it off this list. If we ever had to refilm this video that restaurant would definitely be on there. Princesses? Great. Food? Not so great. Even though everyone says it's amazing. Definitely overrated for 2 credits!
Thank you so much for watching, and thanks for you comment too. Like I said, I like detailed responses :D Have an amazing time in November, let us know how it goes!
Since the beginning of 2014, I've been to Disney World twice and Disneyland once and the only restaurant I tried, of the ones you mentioned, is T-Rex. I was there with my husband, our son, and his two sons in early 2016. I agree, whole-heartedly, with much of what you said about dining there; particularly, that it gets LOUD when all of the creatures are activated, so it's not recommended for young children, and that the 'experience' won't be of much interest to most adults who are not dining with children, and, finally, that it is rather expensive to dine there (which, unfortunately, can be said of at least 95%+ of the WHOLE 'world' of Disney).
However, given that my grandsons were 10 & 12 at the time (pretty much the perfect age for the theme), that my husband and son are carnivores (LOL), and that we were using a Disney Dining Plan, T-Rex was actually our favorite dining experiences of our week at DW (personally, I enjoyed it, mostly, because my 4 guys enjoyed it so much).
In defense of T-Rex's prices, I would like to mention that the portions were HUGE (I think the only one who finished his meal was my son). Though many people will probably point out that, as a rule, small portion size is not a problem at most eating establishments on Disney properties (T-Rex, which is at Disney Springs... formerly, Downtown Disney... is not owned by Disney), the portions here are even BIGGER than usual.
I would also like to add that, though I am more partial to ethnic cuisines (Italian, Chinese, Mediterranean, etc.), for what it is (a meat-eaters' paradise), the food at T-Rex was pretty tasty. My 10-year-old grandson is the pickiest eater of all our grandchildren (7 in total) and he said that this was one of his favorite meals of the week!
Even though our experience at T-Rex was different from yours and, therefore, our opinions differ, I enjoyed your video (as I do most of your Disney-related videos). I appreciate your offering the 'disclaimer' that these are YOUR opinions, based on YOUR experience(s), and that you respect the views of other people. Keep up the good work!
Yeah, we totally go to sci fi so our little ones can sit in front of us and mommy and daddy can have a conversation. It's for them-and us. But I hate rainforest cafe, and you are right about the noise. It scares small children. And if you sit by the water it's even louder! I do love flame tree though. Their watermelon salad is so refreshing.
I love Sarah's haircut! 😊
+SimsCoOpAwesome thannnnnkkkkksss!! 😄😄😄
+SimsCoOpAwesome thannnnnkkkkksss!! 😄😄😄
most controversial video on this channel:
*Overrated Disney restaurants*
I agree about Sanaa and Rainforest. I haven't been to La Cellier and Flame Tree. I see what you're saying about Sci-Fi, but for me it's still a must-do every time we go, and we go again in December and we're booked for lunch. I think it's a nice decompression from the park. It's dark, it's quiet (amazingly so, comparative to all the other VERY loud WDW restaurants). It's quirky and fun, and the food, although not stellar, is solid. I've had a reuben and a salmon burger and both were decent. I think for me the draw is to take a break from the bright sun, asphalt and noise of the parks and to just chill for a bit while enjoying lunch and some really weird movie clips.
I think you might be saying, "Manage your expectations, even for very recommended restaurants."
+Rebecca Perry Yes! That is almost exactly what I was trying to say. Sarah is better with words in videos, but that's definitely what I was trying to get at! Manage your expectations!
Great video 😃 Only thing I can't agree with is Flame Tree BBQ, it's delicious! Wouldn't miss it on a trip! But then again I don't like BBQ sauce so it's perfect because your just left with really tender flavourful meat. Oh well it's all about preference, more for me lol 😀
Yes definitely, and you'll never have to worry that I'll eat all the Pulled Pork before you get there! :D
Totally agree about Le Cellier we had an meh meal there, they wouldn't let us swop out anything, they messed up our order and the food was just ok, we heard the beer cheese soup was amazing and it was so mild and quite bland.
+Maria Pass I am glad we tried it, but I think it's definitely a one time place for us.
I think flame tree is recommended because of the portion!
Rainforest Cafe is also bad no matter which one you go to! It just draws in people with kids because of the animatronics that usually are old ! lol
But Sci-FI is good food and I like it because of the theming and I love the videos because I love 50s movies ! so i think it depends on your personal style for that restaurant
We've heard that they may have improved the food quite a way since we last had anything from them - we're not so keen on the layout and the gimmick, but at least if they've improved the food that's something!!
I couldn't agree more about T-Rex. Never made it to rainforest cafe because we assumed it would be the same. WE WENT AS A FAMILY AND I STILL WOULDN'T RECOMMEND. If you have spent a day at the parks, I think the loud noises, flashing lights and smog is the last thing you need. It was so overpriced for terrible food, not ideal for anyone let alone families. I would say save your money for something (anything) nicer. (even if your 8 year old child demands to eat here)
I would say overall this put us off disney restaurants for that trip. Keen to try some of the top 5 ones tho now :)
Sci fi has not changed ever since it has opened
if you haven't yet, you should try Boma, oh and Ohana too.
They are both on our list for next time!
Yay so happy to hear! Becuase I won't get to any time soon. I just heard by ear how good those places are. Let's just hope they are right haha.
O'hana breakfast is our favorite!
I know the noise is a big complaint of T-Rex, but I honestly love how loud it is. I got a lot of food for what I paid. So much that I had to bring some back to the hotel room and put it in the mini fridge.
That's great! There certainly was a lot of food.
You are so right about Le Cellier. It was slightly worse than Texas Roadhouse (a steakhouse chain). I'll definitely try Yactsman instead, thanks!
+Brent Gleason such a shame because I wanted it to be really good. It just wasn't!!
Brent Gleason I'm a fan of Le Cellier but I rarely get past the soup
1900 Park Fare is overrated. The food isn't as good as everyone says; good character experiences but it feels rushed, like any character dining experience. There was a very rude woman at the front.
I had ribs at Flame Tree and was so excited, but it was so disappointing! I didn't finish it :( I loved the seating areas but that's about it, was such a long queue and chaos at the ordering/receiving stations
Yes the setting of the restaurant is amazing. Just a shame the food doesn't live up to that!
I appreciate this video and your opinions as a person who has never been and is in the process of planning my first trip. I will take it into consideration when booking ADRs =)
Don't let us put you off anything though! If you want to do it, do as Sarah said and just do you - that's what's important at the end of the day!
Of course!! It's all part of the planning process, thank you =)
At Disneyland the over-hyped restaurant would be Blue Bayou. I used to love eating there, but in the last few years they have really shrunk down their menu choices to only 2-3 choices. If you don't want one of those few choices... too bad.
That's a shame! We'll keep that in mind, we do like very different things so varied menus are always a plus!
I tried Le Cellier and thought it was alright, but not worth the price. Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater, I didn't like the food, and hated not being able to talk to my family. Every Rainforest Cafe I've been to has terrible food that's way over priced.
Butter chicken at Sanaa was literally THE BEST butter chicken I've ever had I SO disagree
When we went to the Sci Fi diner we ended up having a 'UFO' or just one of the normal tables at the back cause all the cars were taken so we didn't have that problem. I had the blue cheese stake with iceberg lettuce and honestly I dunno why people say they don't like the food in there cause that dinner was one of the best dinners I've ever had. The theming I thought was amazing too. I'm glad they never showed a movie cause then no one would be talking to each other. Felt more relaxed just little clips and yeah they played them over and over but when you are eating and talking you don't pay much attention to it.
When my whole family went to WDW in 1992 we stayed at Fort Wilderness campground and decided to eat at Trails End one night. It was HORRIBLE. Some of the food was raw, some was burnt, nothing was edible for a group of 10. You'd think that with those odds we'd have at least one edible meal. We refused to pay for it and went back to our campground for sandwiches. At least they were edible. We've been back twice since and haven't had the guts to try again. Has it gotten any better?
That's a shame, it's not one we've tried I'm afraid - we looked at visiting Fort Wilderness on our last trip, but it got bumped in favour of eating somewhere else!
It's relatively common for people to be down on Le Cellier (sp?) these days. Either it's gone downhill, or it's simply not the same value since the prices have increased. ... I've also seen other's recently say that Flame Tree BBQ is very disappointing now, even though they enjoyed it in the past. It's possible they've dropped the quality in their food, and have been riding on their reputation.
Those are definitely possibilities!
I was told Flame Tree has changed. I'm very disappointed!
I AGREE with everything you said. My favorite place to eat is Tokyo dinning in Japan. So much better than Canada. You guys are so funny, glad to see you guys have fun reviews.
Tokyo dining will be on our list next time we get the chance, quite looking forward to trying it out!!
I completely agree with both of you. Yes, eating at those restaurants would not make for a good holiday at Disney. there are so many really good restaurants on property. Never enough time to eat at everyone of them to begin with.
Yes! So much good food and just not quite enough time... We'll just have to go back :D
Though I have never eaten there I think I have seen polls that put Le Cellier at the top of both the most liked and least liked WDW restaurants.
It's definitely a polarising restaurant! It made our list just because, like you said, we've seen it on the top of the "most liked" lists - and we thought we'd really enjoy it, but it was only "pretty okay".
On all our trips, 6 or so, we have only done a few sit downs. We are not foodies and one of my way too old sons is still a picky eater after 26 year. :(
We have done Whispering Canyon Café a few times only for breakfast because it has food that everyone will like and well its cheaper and you can't really mess up Mickey Waffles.
I've been to the one in Canada. This was about 10 years ago. Loved it!!!! I've tried to go once to the Sci-Fi restaurant. When I saw the prices on the menu and how long the line was to get in, I left. It was over priced. I'm not sure about the current prices though. Have you've tried the all you can eat buffet in Animal Kingdom Lodge? It's so good.
We haven't! Trying out some of the other Animal Kingdom lodge restaurants is on our list for whenever we manage to make it back to WDW!
I had the same experience at Le Cellier. Everyone sang the praises of this place and all I found was a very dark restaurant with just ok food.
Yeah it's such a shame! I had really high hopes from the way people talk about it, but it was just a pretty okay restaurant. We'll definitely have to manage our expectations if we go back to it. But I think we'll just stick to Yachtsman for steak and if we really want to eat in EPCOT we'll give Teppan Edo a try next!!
T-Rex, Rainforest Cafe and The Yak and Yeti are owned and operated by Landry's not Disney. All four are sub par. The 3rd restaurant at AK Lodge is Boma. It's a high end cafeteria style restaurant. It is expensive but due to the quality and wide range of selections I've never had a bad dining experience there.
Thank you for your time put into this review, but I must highly DISAGREE with your report on Sanaa. I've dined there 4 separate times, and each time the food was AMAZING! So good, in fact, that it's my favorite restaurant at Walt Disney World!
It's one of those we really, really wanted to enjoy. Especially after the constant glowing reviews - it just really didn't hit the mark for us at all. Can't really tell if that was an off-evening for them, or the food wasn't as good as it had been for other people or maybe we were just looking for something else out of the meal!
NOOOOOOO we loved sanna lol Great video guys 👍🏻
+Clarke Family Adventures a lot of people do! We just couldn't get on with it
Just found this vid. Agree with all of them, especially Sci-Fi Diner. I went there the first year Disney-MGM Studios opened and haven't been back since. Food was horrible and the theme wasn't that big of deal.
As far as Sci-Fi, I grew up going to drive-in theaters, less expensive than regular theaters and money was tight. This place is really nostalgic for me because of that. I'm not a sci-fi fan, but I love the ambiance. They even have commercials that were shown at drive-ins, and I LOVE them. The food is really not very good, but the place is fun. I find on the whole that Disney is trying too hard to have healthy and unusual food. I'm not a fan. It's getting really hard to find something decent to eat because of that. We end up just looking for a burger, even though we'd rather have something else.
I have never actually experienced a drive-in before, but I can imagine that it has a really nostalgic feel if you have. I would love to go to one but we don't really have them in the UK which is a shame.
They are a relic of the past here. I went in the 60's and 70's. I've heard that there may be one in Virginia, not too far from where I live in Maryland, but I've never looked into it. My memories of being in the back of my parents' station wagon watching movies is fun!
Sci Fi was AWFUL. I honestly really regret spending money there. I mean.... the milkshake was good. I only go to T rex because my 3 year old has an obsession with Dinosaurs. But none of those restaurants are Disney affiliated. Its owned by the Landry's corporation. But the food is not that great. Its... OK
Yeah I 100% think people go for the theme more that anything else.
I much prefer Yachtsman. One of the best meals I have ever had.
Their food is sooooo amazing. 100% the best meal we had at Disney!
Did you guys happen to try their Lobster Bisque? If so, do you remember if it stung the back of your throat/mouth? I got horrific food poisoning from my meal at Yachtsman Steakhouse and had to cancel my plans after dinner :(
She's pretty much right about that restaurant
I've not been to Le celliar in 10 years we had an amazing experience back then mostly made by the staff I'm scared to go back in case it's not as good
You have to expand your horizons when it comes to food.....especially at Disney. We've eaten at most of these places and loved them (Except for rainforest cafe. We have that here at home.). Good video though.
Thank you! We definitely wanted to expand our horizons and try some places we didn't expect - it's just unfortunate that they weren't very good! I had big hopes for Sanaa, I do love that genre of food but they just didn't deliver for us. We have plenty more to try for next time though, it's just a case of fitting it all in!!
I so agree with you Rainforest. I haven't tried T-rex but don't plan on it. The food was bla at best and it was sooooooo loud. We couldn't hardly even hear the waitress.
For us, the most disappointing, overrated Disney restaurants are 'Ohana and California Grill. They're always highly recommended by so many people and we had horrible experiences at both of them. If I'm being completely honest however, I find most Disney restaurants are only ok, not knock-your-socks-off fabulous. Thanks for the reviews!
I hear ya'... I have two classes of food: "good" and "good for Disney."
I hate Ohana but I LOVEEEE the California grill though. I got a kids meal as an adult meal. The dessert was okay. But the fireworks were so pretty from the view.
Oh no. I had O'hana on the list to try next time!
I agree the view is spectacular! I think if we were to go again, it would just be for drinks, sushi and fireworks, LOL.
Some people still love 'Ohana and food is such a subjective thing. We've been to Le Cellier many times and have always had an amazing meal and great service but Yachtsman Steakhouse was only ok for us. I think you should give 'Ohana a try and see if it's worth it to you. :-)
My Fav, place is the Sci-Fi drive in diner in Hollywood Studios. The Atmosphere is amazing.
I haven't been to T-Rex or Rainforest on Disney property but I have been to The Rainforest Cafe in San Francisco and I would agree with you on the over hype. I was disappointed. The atmosphere was stuffy, loud and dark , The food was so so and over priced. Im pretty sure I have had better service and food from a Red Robin at half the cost.
+Tiara Hagaman it could be incredible if they did it well and put a lot of time working on a great menu and toned done some of the loud noises. But right now, as it currently is. I wouldn't go again to any of the Rainforest Café restaurants.
NOOOOO RAINFOREST CAFE IS SOO GOOD ALL THE EFFECTS AND THE FOOD IS SO GOOD
I would add Ragland rd to this list. The food was average and the theme just wasn't really a true reflection of Ireland. Although we were at the end of a long day and me,my wife and our 2 kids were tired I found it to be overrated though I'll give them a mark for being good with the kids.overpriced food,beer only came in small glasses and the staff were to busy to be helpful.
Yeah I know Sarah has eaten here, I haven't yet - but I think I'd MUCH rather eat at Wolfgang Puck express around the corner instead. That food was surprisingly great.
+That Sounds Fun My husband has several food allergies, so Raglan Road is great for him. It's the only place he can have corn dogs and onion rings. For me, it was awful, but it's worth it for him.
I have to agree with Le Celier. It used to be so much better. but as it has become more and more popular, the quality has gone down. Sci-fi is all about the ambiance food was just okay. Have not been to the park in years so they could be worse or better since the last time i went. I used to like Brown Derby (again, haven't been there in years) and it was probably my favorite in park restaurant. Rain forest cafe is better an animal kingdom than any other location i have been to. also Flame Tree used to be the best at Animal Kingdom but there was really nothing there. with the new option Yak and Yeti, etc. i think they are no longer the best option.
I agree! Animal Kingdom has so many great food places. Food being just good or OK doesn't cut it there anymore.
I agree with all of your assessments especially the Rainforest review.
When Le Cellier was rated a Tableside restaurant, it may have merited the hype but Le Cellier is definitely NOT a Signiture Dining Experience!!! To compare Le Cellier to Narcoosees, Jiko, Brown Derby, Yachtsman, Citricos or other "Signiture Dining Experiences" is tantamount to comparing James Buchanan to Abraham Lincoln. They were both U.S. presidents but...........
The most overrated to me would definitely have to be Hollywood Brown Derby. The food was just ok and I ended up getting food poisoning from the cobb salad which is their most famous item on the menu! Service was great but that was the only positive to me.
Oh no! I had that on our list for our next trip! Maybe I will need to rethink that!
Maybe you should have listed the 5 that you'd go to instead that fit the same kind of category. that'd be helpful
We do have a couple of separate videos on which ones we would recommend, one for 5 quick service and one for 5 table service - it's in our planning playlist! We didn't put it in this video as well, as I think our answers wouldn't have changed from doing that - and the ones in those videos are still our definite favourites!!
I'll only eat Canadian food from the Kiosk during Food and Wine. It's delicious and affordable. Far better than going into the restaurant and spending a small fortune.
My favourite disney restaurant is the Garden Grill in Epcot and, after my last visit, I have to say Be Our Guest was pretty good too (or at least the breakfast was) although that one suffers from a similar problem to the Rainforest cafe (in the forbidden west wing room anyway) with loud noises, dimly lit, thunder and lightning. Really freaked out my little sister and made it very hard to see your food.
Great video and you were spot on. Most of these restaurants are way over hyped. I loved what you said about Sanaa. The food was soulless and a bit too commercial tasting and oddly for a place so well hyped it was empty. I really like Jiko at the Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House) I have always enjoyed the food and atmosphere there. As for T-Rex and Rain-forest, I do not really count them as they are not "Disney" restaurants. I agree they are good for some kids but you have to plan to go there for the atmosphere not the food. I ate at Le Celier for the first time this past February (2016) the place was ok but not worth the price as the food was just "good".
I think commercial is a great way to describe it. I wasn't expecting 100% authentic - but I was expecting something a little bit less "safe". I mean if you have a spice blend that just completely disappears and is tasteless, that's not a spice blend! It's pointless!! So I think Sanaa could definitely be a great place, if they decided to be a bit more out there with some of the dishes. Ramp up the spice on a few of the options and keep a few of the safer ones for the less adventurous and I think we'd have had a much nicer meal.
Don't change the bread though! I did love the bread.
Im 17 years old and I love T-rex! I think you guys are missing the point for some of these. Going to disney is about becoming a kid again and immersing yourself in something that you can't do anywhere else. My favorite restaurant in all of disney is Sci-fi dine in and I personally think their burgers and shakes are amazing. Have you guys tried the mexican pavilion restaurant? Its one of my favorites as well but once again its for the atmosphere.
I 100% agree with you on le cellier. Had much better steaks in narcoossee's, California grill and artist point
+dtm316 YES. I really enjoyed my California Grill steak!
hello just wanna say the videos are great.
+Stephen Bagshaw thank you so much!
Agree with all except Flametree. I've had a good meal there.
+Jean Bulger I know a lot of people have. I just think we might have been really unlucky the times we have been.
Y'all are cute! Thanks for the tips! Rainforest Cafe is like frozen bar food. Meh.
No problem! I agree with you on that one!
Didn't think I would but I agree with what you said about all the places you spoke of. The Yachtsman is my favorite restaurant for a great steak. Flying fish from what I hear may be as good or better than Yachtsman. We'll find out in December. Thanks for posting.
I think the Flame Tree has definitely dropped off quality wise but we love the seating area. Is there another place at AK for ribs on the QSDP?
I don't think there is actually. We went their before they did their refurbishment so they could be better now, but to be honest, I don't want to risk it!
Went to the TRex restaurant at Disney Springs about a week ago, the food was cold and horrible. Took one bite of my meal and they never even offered to recook it or take it off the bill. Worst food I've ever had.
There are definitely a lot of better restaurants than T-Rex. I wish they would put more effort into improving the menu!
I liked the Sci-fi cafe but it was just me and my boyfriend so we didn't need to talk to anyone except each other, the for was average but i liked the decor so much because you can't get an eating experience like that. The rainforest cafe i HATEDDDDD the food was bad and we were sat next to the monkeys who were loud and freaked me out! But we enjoyed the T-rex one because my boyfriend is dino crazy (he has a t-rex tattoo) so he appreciated the animatronics. Our fave restaurants from our florida trip was Bubba Gumps and at universal and this random all you can eat buffet near Walmart haha I enjoyed the princess buffet in epcot but some of the princesses were awkward meeting 2 adults which was off putting coz i too am awkward haha
I'd say the worst restaurant for me, is the main restaurant in the Mexico pavilion at Epcot (the one overlooking the Three Caballeros ride). I couldn't even finish one meal.
Haha, La Celier is one of my favorite Disney restaurants. Maybe their other cuts are better, I had one of the best steaks I'd ever had in my life there. Although to be perfectly fair, I had been having a terrible week leading up to that meal, so maybe my perception was blurred.
We did really like their steaks until we tried Yachtsman. That was the point we changed our minds on it a bit.
We were at Ohana for dinner about 4 or 5 years ago. The dinner was overrated. I have heard it is now improved. Is it really?
Well I have Dined at all 5 restaurants & I agree with you on 4 out of 5.
We dined at Sanaa when We stayed at Animal kingdom lodge in 2014.
The meal was ok but not great. at the time they were serving Lamb Tandoori.
I had to send it back it was cold & I had to wait 20 minutes for it. (Jikos & Boma are both great places to eat though).
Rainforest We did in 2016 & it was ok but again not great.
Le Cellier We did not have a great meal, steak over cooked & a bit too dark inside.
Sci Fi Dine in was as you said not good at all.
But Flame tree I have eaten there 3 times & always get the smoked Turky Sandwich which is very tasty meal.
Everyone seems to say that - and I'm willing to give Flame Tree another go, I really do hope it's changed/we just went on an off day. Love me some BBQ!
wait is le cellier the one in beach club orr
the one that mariah carey goes to?
le cellier is in the Canada pavilion in epcot
ooooh a bit different then haha
+carlgrimestan ™ it's themed around a Canadian wine cellar.
The icees, bacon cheeseburgers, and volcano cakes are amazing at rainforest cafe. 😍
+Kelly Spencer I will give you that. The volcano cake was pretty good. Haha