Buffets at Disney World: A Look at All Your Options

Hey Disney Vacationers! Disney World is packed with diverse dining experiences, and one of the most exciting options is the buffet. Whether you’re craving endless servings of your favorite dishes or looking for a family-friendly dining option, buffets at Disney World have you covered. Let’s explore the different buffet and family-style dining options at Disney World, and find out which one is right for you!

Buffet vs. Family-Style Dining: What’s the Difference?

Before diving into the list of buffets at Disney World, it’s crucial to understand the difference between traditional buffets and family-style dining.

Buffet:

In a buffet setting, you’ll find an array of dishes you can pick and choose from. You serve yourself, allowing you to mix and match items to your heart’s content. Best of all, you can enjoy unlimited servings. It’s the ultimate “eat as much as you like” experience!

Family-Style:

In family-style dining, your server will bring a selection of dishes directly to your table. While the menu might be more limited compared to a buffet, you can still eat as much as you like. The variety of dishes is typically the same for all tables.

Traditional Buffets at Disney World

If you’re looking for a classic buffet experience, Disney World offers several options. You can make dining reservations at all of these dining locations via My Disney Experience or the on the Disney website. Here’s a rundown of the best traditional buffets available:

• Boma: Located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Boma features an African-inspired buffet with a mix of savory and sweet options. It’s known for its exotic flavors and fantastic breakfast and dinner offerings.
• Biergarten: Nestled in the Germany Pavilion at EPCOT, Biergarten offers a delightful Bavarian-themed buffet. With hearty dishes like sausages, schnitzel, and pretzels, plus a variety of desserts, this spot is a favorite for those craving German cuisine.
• Cape May Cafe: Situated in Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Cape May Cafe serves up a seafood-focused buffet. If you’re a fan of crab legs and clam chowder, this is the place for you!

Character-Dining Buffets at Disney World

Who doesn’t love a little extra magic while they eat? Character-dining buffets let you meet beloved Disney characters as you enjoy your meal. Here are the top character-dining buffets you’ll find at Disney World:

• 1900 Park Fare: Located in the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, 1900 Park Fare offers a charming buffet with characters from classic Disney stories. Enjoy breakfast or dinner with Tiana, Mirabel, Aladdin and more.
• Tusker House: At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Tusker House brings a mix of African-inspired flavors to its buffet. Meet Safari Donald and friends while enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner in this lively marketplace setting.
• The Crystal Palace: Located on Main Street, U.S.A. in Magic Kingdom, The Crystal Palace hosts a buffet with Winnie the Pooh and friends. Its Victorian greenhouse setting is perfect for a character-filled breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
• Hollywood & Vine: Over at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Hollywood & Vine offers a character-dining experience with a variety of characters depending on the season. From Minnie’s seasonal dining to Disney Junior favorites, it’s a must for little ones!
• Chef Mickey’s: Found at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Chef Mickey’s lets you enjoy a buffet meal with Mickey and friends. From breakfast classics to dinner favorites, it’s a hit for all ages.

Family-Style Buffets at Disney World

Prefer your food brought directly to your table but still want unlimited servings? Disney’s family-style buffets offer a great alternative. Here’s where to find them:

• ‘Ohana: Located at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, ‘Ohana serves up a Polynesian-themed family-style feast. From breakfast with Lilo & Stitch to a Hawaiian-inspired dinner, it’s always a good time here!
• Roundup Rodeo BBQ: This newly opened family-style dining experience in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios offers a BBQ-inspired menu that’s sure to satisfy every cowboy and cowgirl’s appetite.
• Whispering Canyon: Over at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Whispering Canyon serves up hearty, all-you-can-eat skillets packed with barbecue favorites and breakfast classics.
• Sebastian’s Bistro: Found at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Sebastian’s Bistro offers family-style dining with a Caribbean twist. Enjoy tropical flavors while overlooking the resort’s beautiful waterfront.
• Liberty Tree Tavern: In Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square, Liberty Tree Tavern provides a colonial-themed family-style meal. Indulge in Thanksgiving-inspired dishes that will make you feel right at home.
• The Diamond Horseshoe: Right next door to Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom, The Diamond Horseshoe serves up a similar family-style meal with an Old West flair.
• Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue: Not only do you get a family-style buffet at this dinner show at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, but you’re also treated to an evening of music, comedy, and fun!

Character – Family-Style Buffets at Disney World

Get the best of both worlds with character-themed family-style dining experiences:

• Garden Grill: Located in EPCOT’s Land Pavilion, Garden Grill offers a rotating dining experience featuring Chip ‘n’ Dale. The menu includes fresh ingredients grown right in the pavilion’s greenhouses!
• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: In EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, you’ll dine like royalty at Akershus. With visits from Disney Princesses, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a Nordic-inspired family-style meal.

Pros and Cons of Buffet and Family-Style Dining at Disney World

Thinking of booking one of these dining experiences? Here’s what to consider:

PROS:

• Perfect for Picky Eaters: Buffets work well for those who like to see their food before choosing. With endless options, guests can customize their plates exactly as they wish.
• Free for Kids Under Three: If you have little ones under three, they eat free at Disney buffets. That’s a win!
• Character Meet-and-Greets: Most buffets offer character dining, allowing you to meet 4-5 characters in the same amount of time it would take to find them in the parks.
• Unique Character Experiences: Some buffets feature rare character interactions, like Piglet at The Crystal Palace or Donald Duck in safari gear at Tusker House.
• Cost-Effective for Big Eaters: With a prix fixe, all-you-care-to-eat setup, buffets can be a bargain for those with hearty appetites.
• Early Park Access: Buffets like Crystal Palace, Tusker House, and Hollywood & Vine offer breakfast before park hours, giving you a touring advantage.
• A Relaxing Break: A leisurely, air-conditioned buffet meal is a great way to recharge during a busy park day.
• Disney Dining Plan: Majority of the buffets are options of the Disney Dining Plan, and tend to be some of the best values. Make sure to check out the list of restaurants that are part of the dining plan.

CONS:

• Expensive for Small Appetites: If you’re not a big eater, buffets can feel overpriced, no matter how little you consume.
• Willpower Test: It’s easy to overindulge at a buffet. If you struggle with portion control, you might leave feeling overly full.
• Frequent Movement: Buffets require getting up to serve yourself, which can be tiring, especially if you’re with small children or have mobility issues.
• Difficult Reservations: Some buffets are highly popular and can be challenging to book, especially at peak dining times.
• Time-Consuming: Unlike quick-service dining, buffets are table service and can take longer, potentially eating into your park time.
• Food Allergy Concerns: Cross-contamination is possible in buffets. While chefs can bring fresh dishes from the kitchen, it might take extra time.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between Disney World’s buffets and family-style dining depends on your priorities—whether it’s the variety of food, meeting characters, or finding a relaxed atmosphere. No matter what you choose, you’re sure to find a delicious and memorable experience at one of Disney’s many buffet options!

Looking To Book Your Dream Disney Vacation?

Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!