Feb 192015
In the midst of Downtown Disney’s biggest transformation to date, the soon to be Disney Springs is bursting with unique dining spots sure to suit any appetite. With the crowds dying down and the tourists headed home, February is the prime month to visit as a local. And since Downtown Disney can get especially crazy, we recommend checking out these eats soon before the mobs of spring breakers arrive!
- Exposition Park – The permanent home for Disney’s food trucks. Two or more of the Disney food trucks will be at the park most days: Superstar Catering (featuring favorites from Disney’s Hollywood Studios), Namaste Café (Disney’s Animal Kingdom dishes), Fantasy Fare (Magic Kingdom tastes) and World Showcase of Flavors (Epcot Food & Wine Festival). The park is next to Bongos Cuban Cafe and also includes an area for live entertainment, seating for diners and ample shade.
- Fulton’s Crab House – Seafood is flown in from around the globe, but also celebrates Florida’s waters with seasonal catches such as stone crab claws. Choose from the nautical dining room or one of three outdoor decks. Fulton’s is an 11-time winner of Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence, with more than 2,000 bottles in their cellar.
- Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop – The chocolatey smell wafting from the rooftop is enough to draw anyone inside. This spot offers everything from scoops to floats, sundaes and malts. You must try their World Famous Hot Fudge Sundae, with house-made fudge. At the very least stop by for the free chocolate square samples!
- Portobello – Grab a seat on the waterfront porch for the best views in this trattoria that serves wood-burning-oven pizzas, antipasti and hearty dishes like ravioli filled with ricotta and spinach, gnocchi and penne Bolognese.
- Splitsville Luxury Lanes – Sushi, wine and grilled avocados probably don’t come to mind when you think about bowling. For a sport recognized by ESPN, it sure is a shame that bowling has a reputation for being unglamorous and associated with inedible food. But, at Downtown Disney’s Splitsville, this two story 50,000 square foot space is redefining the modern bowling experience with good eats and an enjoyable atmosphere. Click here for our full culinary review.
Have a magical (and tasty) day at Downtown Disney!
Photo Credits: Disney World, Splitsville photo owned by Spork