If there is one thing about DVC that has really changed us, we have definitely become more spontaneous. If Paul and I aren’t traveling with friends or family, we make next to no dining reservations. Why? Because it’s fun and we don’t have to tie ourselves down. We usually either hop on My Disney Experience or Open Table to see what’s available last minute, get on an online walk-up waitlist, check out quick service, or visit a lounge.
Disney World lounges are some of the most underrated dining establishments on property. They are small and usually offer small menus and sometimes food from the adjoining restaurant if applicable (always be sure to ask for specials and other offerings not listed). The best part is they don’t require pre-planning. Disney Vacation Club members get to stay close to some of the best lounges on property. If you’re open to trying the food on a small menu, they can be a great option. Here are five of my favorite lounge spaces to stop for a last-minute dinner or snack.
Enchanted Rose, Grand Floridian
Enchanted Rose is not only my favorite lounge on property, it has some of my favorite food at Disney World as well. We have been here multiple times to grab a drink. But one night, we visited for a late dinner and left very happy. The menu is small but packs a punch. We ordered three of the five food items which not only left us full but left us looking forward to going back. The truffle fries had such a depth of flavor with real shaved truffles. The flatbread was savory and the brisket sliders stole the show. The onion marmalade and blue cheese went perfectly together. Enchanted Rose also has some fun drinks, even non-alcoholic ones. The B&B and Rosemary Cooler are both fantastic. You can check out a full review of Enchanted Rose here!
Martha’s Vinyard, Beach Club
Martha’s Vinyard has a super small menu online. However, in our experience, they also offer daily specials. When we went, they also had fish tacos and a specialty burger. Not only was the food tasty, but we were also very impressed with the service. We received great service just as you might at a normal table service location. Also, our food came out hot and fresh and was tasty. Unfortunately, we ate our food so quickly here, we forgot to take a picture.
Sanaa Lounge, Animal Kingdom Villas (Kidani Village)
If you’re like me and could fill up on Indian Bread Service, the Sanaa Lounge is the place to be. The Samosas and salad sampler can also be very good. Pair those things with some good drinks. Then, head out to the savanna for some animal gazing while you digest. I love the atmosphere and food at Sanaa, but if you can’t get a reservation, the lounge is a great alternative.
Citricos Lounge, Grand Floridian
Citricos Lounge currently displays the entire Citrico’s menu. This is a great option if you weren’t able to score a reservation at this newly reimagined restaurant. We have spent time at the lounge prior to its refurbishment and enjoyed sitting by the windows in comfortable chairs and relaxing. The new-look has only elevated the space even more.
Territory Lounge, Wilderness Lodge (Copper Creek & Boulder Ridge)
Territory Lounge is inside Wilderness Lodge. It’s a warm and cozy space just off the lobby. Something we loved about this lounge was they had DVC and Annual Pass-themed drinks. It was just a cute touch and something fun to take a picture of. Their food menu seems to be always changing which can be great if you like to visit often.
There are a few lounges that didn’t make the list, but I wanted to mention. First, the lounge at California Grill can be a good place if you didn’t get a reservation there. Unfortunately, last we checked, they were using the space as overflow for the restaurant which requires reservations. Hopefully, it reopens as a lounge soon. I am also really excited about the lounge at Steakhouse 71. I didn’t add it because of my lack of experience there, but it definitely has a lot of potential to be an awesome lounge space.
I’m curious to hear your thoughts. What are your favorite lounge spaces at Disney World to grab a bite to eat or just sit and relax with a drink? I know I stuck to ones located at resorts with Disney Vacation Club villas, but there are a lot of other great locations throughout Walt Disney World. I’d love to know your favorites!
Enchanted Rose is our favorite, too. It isn’t cheap, but it’s a wonderful place to spend the evening.
I look forward to reading a second post – with the best lounges with food in the parks. After Enchanted Rose, our second favorite lounge is Nomad Lounge. How can you resist the atmosphere there? And the food and drinks are delish. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon break.
Bellevue lunge? Turf Club?
Lounge dining is the way to go! There is something enjoyable and more relaxing about the lounge experience. The ability to order small plates and sample more items combined with the increased interaction with bartenders and staff makes for a memorable time. The Enchanted Rose is as good as it gets! I was devastated when the announcement to replace Mizner’s occurred, but they did a fantastic job with the venue.
Try the Expresso Martini at Enchanted Rose and the bread service at Nomad!
One of our Favorites is Trader Sams Tiki Terrace. Fantastic food with no set reservation times for us to adhere to.
Easy stop on the way to or rom MK.
Sushi, Kalua Pork Sliders, Chicken Flat bread, Lettuce Cups, and awesome Tiki cocktails.