When it comes to dining at Walt Disney World, the options are as diverse as the guests who visit. Two standout spots for a casual yet memorable meal are Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Wailulu Bar & Grill, located in the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Both offer unique atmospheres, delicious menus, and a laid-back vibe, but which one is right for you? Let’s dive into the details.
Atmosphere
Geyser Point Bar & Grill is a hidden gem tucked away along the shores of Bay Lake. This fully outdoor dining spot is surrounded by nature, offering a rustic, peaceful ambiance. Guests can enjoy views of Fort Wilderness, the soon-to-be Lakeshore Lodge, and even the Contemporary Resort in the distance. At night, the Electric Water Pageant adds a touch of Disney magic to the experience. The restaurant is located at the far end of the Wilderness Lodge property, requiring a scenic walk past the main pool to reach it. While the recent switch from lounge-style seating to tables and chairs has slightly altered the vibe, the central bar still anchors the pavilion, making it a cozy spot to relax.
In contrast, Wailulu Bar & Grill offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with its outdoor area featuring booths, tables, and tranquil water features. Situated along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, Wailulu provides stunning views of the nightly fireworks over Magic Kingdom. The Polynesian’s tropical, bustling atmosphere is ever-present, making Wailulu feel lively and vibrant. However, for those seeking a quieter escape, this energy might feel a bit overwhelming compared to the serenity of Geyser Point.
Winner: Geyser Point
While both locations boast beautiful waterfront settings, Geyser Point’s peaceful, nature-filled atmosphere edges out the more energetic vibe of Wailulu. It’s the perfect retreat for those looking to unwind.
Offerings
Both restaurants cater to walk-up diners, with no reservations required. Guests can join the waitlist via the My Disney Experience app or by visiting the hostess stand. Pricing is comparable, with dishes ranging from $11 to $33.
Wailulu Bar & Grill serves a Grab-and-Go breakfast featuring pastries, yogurt, coffee, and juice, in addition to its full lunch and dinner menu. Geyser Point, on the other hand, offers a single menu for both lunch and dinner, focusing on traditional American fare. While Wailulu’s breakfast option adds versatility, both restaurants excel in providing a variety of appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts.
Winner: Tie
Both spots offer convenience and flexibility, with similar pricing and no reservations required. Wailulu’s breakfast option is a nice touch, but Geyser Point’s streamlined menu keeps things simple.
Dishes
When it comes to the menu, Geyser Point leans into classic American comfort food, with options like sandwiches, ribs, and wings. Its standout dish is the Bison Burger, a fan favorite for years. This burger is topped with bacon, cheese, marionberry sauce, garlic aioli, and crispy onion straws, creating a hearty and flavorful bite.
Wailulu Bar & Grill, on the other hand, embraces its Polynesian roots with dishes like Loco Moco, poke bowls, teriyaki chicken, and macaroni salad. The menu feels more adventurous and unique, offering a taste of Hawaiian-inspired cuisine. Wailulu’s Wayfinder Burger has quickly become a hit, featuring two pressed patties, cheese, onion jam, and volcano sauce on a sweet bun.
While both burgers are excellent, the Wayfinder Burger takes the crown for its bold and unforgettable flavor profile. That said, menu preferences will ultimately come down to personal taste—whether you’re craving comfort food or something a bit more exotic.
Winner: Wailulu Bar & Grill
The Hawaiian-inspired menu and standout Wayfinder Burger make Wailulu the more exciting choice for adventurous eaters.
Overall Verdict
Both Geyser Point Bar & Grill and Wailulu Bar & Grill offer fantastic dining experiences, each with its own unique charm. Geyser Point shines with its tranquil atmosphere and classic American menu, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing meal by the water. Wailulu, on the other hand, brings the energy of the Polynesian Resort to life with its vibrant setting and flavorful, island-inspired dishes.
If you’re looking for peace and quiet, Geyser Point is the way to go. But if you’re in the mood for bold flavors and a lively atmosphere, Wailulu won’t disappoint. Either way, you’re in for a treat—because at Disney, every meal is part of the magic.
mymagoogle
September 23, 2025Geyser Point has the counter service with the same menu just to the side, with a refillable mug refillable station. We order ahead on the app. The kids pick up the meal and refill their mugs while I pick up the adult beverages at the bar, and we meet at one of the open cabanas at the quiet pool for a nice al fresco dinner. For that, it’s the winner for our family.