Which restaurants would you call a "hidden gem"?

Joy70

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Jul 17, 2015
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We're going to WDW in the Fall, and with free dining the "must have" reservations have already filled up (BOG, Ohana, etc.). What restaurants, QS or TS, would you consider as "hidden gems" that we should give a try?
 
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In no particular order......

Any Swan & Dolphin Signature should have availability:
BlueZoo - seafood,
Shula's - steak,
Il Mulino - Italian,
Kimono's - sushi.

Also, ESPN & Big River Grill along Boardwalk do not take ADR's. Food is fine.

Sanaa, inside AKLodge is often overlooked for meals that include daytime viewing of animals for an early dinner/late lunch throughout the year. But ADR's should be made.

Tutto Gusto Wine Bar inside EPCOT has it's own menu AND you can chose from restaurant next door (no ADR's taken).

Of course, if you're just adults, you may be comfortable grabbing food from any Signature restaurant bar and/or some of the better stocked Lounges (i.e., Mizner's in Grand Floridian).

Sunshine Seasons is not your typical food court - no ADR necessary.
 
I know it's not for everyone, but a few years ago I gave Restaurant Marrakesh a try and was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved it. The atmosphere is amazing and the food was delicious. I know it's not everyone's cup of tea, but if you're willing to be a little bit adventurous I'm sure you'll enjoy it. It's almost always pretty empty, too, as many people assume the food is going to be "weird" or bypass it for the more popular World Showcase options like Via Napoli or Le Cellier.
 
The Wave (especially at breakfast) at the Contemporary, Splittsville at Disney Springs has great sushi and pizzas, Boma for either meal but my preference is breakfast, Sanaa (bread service alone is worth the trip), Olivia's at Old Key West, Wolfgang Puck Express at Disney Springs, Spice Road Table at Epcot, Liberty Tree Tavern in MK for lunch, not really hidden but we love Biergarten in Epcot. Also, don't give up, tons of places will open up as people change their plans especially at the 45 day mark. And honestly, I've never really considered O'hana worth the fuss.
 
Not sure if any of these are hidden gems, but have you looked into:
Chefs de France (epcot)
Jiko (AK)
Kona Cafe (Poly)
 
TS-The Plaza (MK) Teppan Edo (EPCOT)
QS-Lotus Blossom Cafe (EP-China), Liberty Inn (EP-American Adventure), Captain Cooks (Poly), Contempo Cafe (Contemporary)
 
Biergarten, it's our can't miss and you get a show!

Maya Grill at Coronado Springs is a great little spot for a romantic dinner. There is usually a wonderful guitar player there, very nice atmosphere.

And I think we are going to try The Wave with everyone saying how good it is.
 
Boatwrights! Consistently in our top 5, and we've eaten at every table service on property. Never had a bad meal, and always easy to get an ADR.
 
I really love Yak and Yeti at Epcot, we've gone there several times and always have good food and service!
 


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