First Solo Trip Restaurant Recommendations?

[Little E]

Hi Disfriends!

Tomorrow is my 60 day window for my first solo trip. I am staying at Coronado Springs, a new-to-me resort, and it's a really short trip (3 days). While I don't plan on having a ton of TS meals, I'm curious to know if there are places that are extra awesome for solo travelers. I'm excited about this first solo trip, but a little anxious too. Any advice about navigating restaurants solo or restaurants that are fabulous for solo folks would be fantastic!

Thanks so much!

 

[jimmymc]

As a frequent solo traveler, the only restaurants I tend to avoid are character meals. Everywhere else I've been was friendly to solos. Some highlights are:

The bar at Wine Bar George
Flying Fish
Jungle Skipper Canteen
Steakhouse 71
Oga's Cantina (although you'll almost always be standing at the bar)

 

[champagne&disney]

Hi @Little E - I love the Dahlia Lounge at the top of Gran Destino Tower at CS. The food is great and the drinks are even better. It's walk-up only and there are lots of seats at the bar. I travel solo to Disney a few times a year and the lounges are the best spots! Everyone is so nice and I've met tons of great guests and cast members.

Have the best time!

 

[dizneedoll]

I did my first solo trip this year and it was fantastic! I’d recommend Nomad Lounge at AK and since you’re at CSR, Three Bridges and Rix Sports Bar.

 

[Karin1984]

It's been a while, but I had one awesome night as a solo at the bar in Jiko. Great fun with the chefs in the open kitchen, slipping me a few bites to try.

 

[Little E]

You folks are fabulous! These are exactly the kinds of recommendations I was hoping for. Thank you!!!

 

[ScottOKW2K]

It's been a while, but I had one awesome night as a solo at the bar in Jiko. Great fun with the chefs in the open kitchen, slipping me a few bites to try.

I've done the same experience and would do it again in a red-hot minute! Wonderful experience!

I would also suggest Boathouse in Disney Springs.

 

[Little E]

OP here. I was able to make some ADRs this morning, but I have a question. I like the idea of eating in lounges or at the bar...thank you, friends, for that idea! I tried to get Space 220 Lounge, but had no luck. However, I was able to snag a Space 220 restaurant reservation. What are the odds that I can ask to be seated at the bar for my reservation?

 

[jimmymc]

OP here. I was able to make some ADRs this morning, but I have a question. I like the idea of eating in lounges or at the bar...thank you, friends, for that idea! I tried to get Space 220 Lounge, but had no luck. However, I was able to snag a Space 220 restaurant reservation. What are the odds that I can ask to be seated at the bar for my reservation?

I don't think they'll allow it.

 

[shpooey]

OP here. I was able to make some ADRs this morning, but I have a question. I like the idea of eating in lounges or at the bar...thank you, friends, for that idea! I tried to get Space 220 Lounge, but had no luck. However, I was able to snag a Space 220 restaurant reservation. What are the odds that I can ask to be seated at the bar for my reservation?

Note that for a Space 220 restaurant reservation you're required to do the full prix fixe meal ($55 for lunch, $79 for dinner). But with a lounge reservation, you have the option of having whatever you want - could do just appetizer + drink, or also the prix fixe menu from the restaurant if you're hungry. That's why people usually recommend the lounge over the restaurant (and what makes it harder to get!)

Bar seating at Space 220 is usually walk up, so if you're not able to get a lounge reservation, you can always try to walk up day of and see what the wait is like.

A general tip for reservations - if you're not seeing availability for one person, try looking for an ADR for 2. Sometime it'll show more availability, and as long as it's not one of the pay in advance ADRs (e.g. CRT, fireworks dining), you can modify it later or just show up with only one person. Usually you'd get a two-top table as a solo diner anyway.

 

[Lilsia]

There is no "navigating" eating solo. You eat where you want to. Going solo is no different than going with another person. Everyone eats to live, there is nothing awkward or shameful about eating a meal. I have never had any experience that was different when on my own than if I were with another person. What "extra awesome" are you expecting?

 

[2vets]

I see you’ve made ADRs, but I just wanted to add that I’ve had great experiences at the Cali Grill and Brown Derby lounge/bar seating. I clearly need to try Jiko . Enjoy!!