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3. Il Mulino, Walt Disney Swan Resort

Image: Disney

New Yorkers reading this article will likely see Il Mulino listed here and do a double take. Yes, not only does Walt Disney World have its own branch of the famed NYC Italian spot, but it also is rarely crowded.

Billed as a “Trattoria,” owing to the more laid back vibe than its NYC big brothers, WDW's Il Mulino is every bit as powerful on the plate. Its location in the Dolphin likely keeps guests away as they opt for the more typically-Disney spots, but be advised that Il Mulino offers some of the best Italian dishes on property.

Reservations, again, are suggested but can be easy to come by – even day of. But don't let the lack of one keep you from trying to find a table at dinner time. For the most part, the wait is minimal and, if lucky, you could find a spot at the bar for dinner if that's more your speed.

The food, of course, is delicious. Options ranging from typical red-checkered-table-cloth-style pasta to higher-end Italian dishes means everyone will find something to enjoy, and while the atmosphere is laid back, it is still classy enough to make dinner feel like an event.

Last-minute diners will likely find all of the restaurants at the Swan and Dolphin to fit their needs – tasty and without long waits – but Il Mulino is an adventure unto itself and is worth a special visit.

4. Crew's Cup Lounge, Yacht Club Resort

Image: Disney

On its face, the Crew's Cup Lounge is a nice comfortable bar, worthy of a relaxing after-parks drink. But, owing to its shared kitchen with the delicious Yachtsman Steakhouse next door, its menu is also worth exploring. And the fact that it doesn't accept reservations means it's a perfect spot for a last-minute diner to find a table.

The food is wonderful and the menu is quite varied: Everything from New England Clam Chowder to short ribs, lobster rolls, and even a great cheeseburger. The house-cut truffle fries and buffalo wings are also great bar food for those looking for something to compliment a nice brew.

As an added bonus, the Lounge remains open quite late – usually to midnight – meaning those returning home after a dazzling performance of Illuminations and are still looking for some nourishment don't necessarily have to settle for a pizza or food court-style grub.

5. Jiko – The Cooking Place, Animal Kingdom Lodge

Image - harshlight, Flickr

Here's the trualy amazing thing about Jiko: despite serving some of the best food at Walt Disney World, despite having one of WDW's most impressive wine lists, despite being housed at one of Disney's most beautiful resorts and despite having a stunning dining room and charming atmosphere, Jiko is one of Disney's easier dining reservations to get. There are often even tables available the morning of. And, even if you don't have a reservation, don't fret – it's still very doable to be seated in a reasonable amount of time without one.

Jiko's food is remarkable. The African-style flavors transform familiar proteins into incredibly unique dishes that linger on bother your palate and your mind for some time. The combination of Mediterranean or European standards with African spices and vegetables is brilliant, and a dinner at Jiko is absolutely an unforgettable dining experience.

It's originality is likely what keeps it from being packed every single night, but use that to your advantage. And, even if you have a short wait, there's always the beautiful Savannah to explore – it's right outside the door. Disney really does think of everything.

 
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Comments

Yeah Beaches and Cream is always packed... Even going later means a long wait.

This is ABSOLUTELY INCORRECT. I used to work at Yacht and Beach and it is extremely unlikely that you will get into Beaches and Cream without a reservation. It is not fancy, but it is small and popular. There are only 10 tables and they are almost ALWAYS booked on reservation completely through the evening. The worst part of my job was having to turn away distraught guest that were told they didn't need a reservation. If there's only 1-3 of you, you might get lucky and get a spot at the counter, but do not base your day around hopefully getting into Beaches if you don't have a reservation. You will be sadly disappointed! (And most likely referred to Creew's Cup, where you can ACTUALLY get in.)

In reply to by Raye Leonard (not verified)

i agree. We had a large party and they couldn't accommodate us at 7 in the evening and told us to come back after our firework cruise which we did but thet still didn't take us! We ended up at the captains crew and was a little disappointed! Too small and the service wasn't so great! Maybe we'll give both another try on our next visit!!

The Marketplace at Coronado...nice variety..self serve.

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