Grand Floridian Café – A Hidden Gem Worth Savoring

A Travel n Taste Journal Feature

If you’re planning a Disney trip and craving a peaceful, quality meal outside the parks, let me put you onto one of my favorite hidden gems: the Grand Floridian Café. Nestled inside Disney’s flagship resort, this charming spot offers all the elegance of the Grand Floridian—with a relaxed vibe and zero stress when it comes to snagging a reservation.

The Setting: Casual Dining with Deluxe Resort Charm

Located next to 1900 Park Fare on the ground floor of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the café is easy to find and often overlooked—which works out in your favor.

While the resort is currently under construction, don’t worry—the café itself remains untouched. It’s bright, clean, and filled with natural light, offering a peaceful break from the busy parks. Step outside after your meal to explore the beautifully landscaped grounds, and don’t miss the old-fashioned carriage out front—it’s a charming photo op straight out of a fairytale.

During our visit, the resort also featured a stunning display of beautifully decorated Easter eggs—each one incredibly creative, eye-catching, and meticulously detailed. This festive touch added an extra layer of seasonal charm and was a joy to discover while touring the resort.

Exceptional Disney Service

As with most Disney resort dining, the service here goes the extra mile. Staff are attentive, warm, and always thinking ahead—offering activity books and Mickey stickers for kids, and keeping the overall experience relaxed and unrushed.

The Food – Delicious and Delightful

Shortly after placing your order, you’re brought a basket of warm, house-made biscuits—served with both whipped butter and a zesty orange butter. It’s a simple but thoughtful touch that adds to the overall experience without overshadowing the main meal.

• Chicken and Waffles – 8/10
  A thin, cornflake-crusted chicken breast with a golden Mickey waffle—a savory-sweet combo that totally delivers. The pomegranate limeade was a highlight: bright, tart, and refreshing. The apple juice, however, was a bit on the watered-down side.
• Mickey Ears to You Waffle – 9/10
  This kid-friendly option includes two mini Mickey waffles topped with sprinkles, sausage, and a fruit cup with grapes, strawberries, and honeydew. Colorful, balanced, and perfectly portioned.

Helpful Tips & Extras

• Breakfast and lunch are served all day—ideal for early risers and brunch lovers.
• Check out the Cinderella Glass Slipper Memory Maker photo spot on the second floor—open after 10:00 AM. If that’s a priority, book your meal a bit later in the morning.
• The café is known for easy reservations, even during peak times—a huge plus when other Disney dining options are booked solid.
• Valet parking is available for $42, or access via monorail from nearby resorts makes it ultra-convenient.
• Important Note: This is not a character meal—there are no characters present at this breakfast.

Final Thoughts

The Grand Floridian Café is everything you want in a Disney dining experience: relaxing, high-quality, and full of little magical moments—from warm biscuits to photo-ready carriages and Cinderella slippers. Whether you’re treating yourself to a slow morning or planning a special start to a resort day, this spot deserves a place on your Disney itinerary.

Want more low-key Disney dining tips? Check out our day at Morimoto Asia and Disney Springs here.