Art Smith’s Homecoming

Image: DisneyMost of the restaurants listed here merit selections for their themes and ambience. In the case of Art Smith’s Homecoming, this selection is 100 percent about the food. Art Smith is a native Floridian who once worked in the Disney college program. Then, he went out and became famous as a celebrity chef before finally returning to Disney Springs as a conquering hero. The foods that he proudly displays on his menu are locally sourced via Jasper, the small hometown that Smith has revitalized thanks to help from Disney. The recipes here are elevated versions of foods you would expect at Cracker Barrel. As for the name, what says family more than the word homecoming?

Be Our Guest

Image: DisneyWhen we’re young, we remember what a big deal it is that first time that we get to eat somewhere nice. Parents generally shy away from taking children to the nicest restaurants in town, at least until they’re sure that the kids will behave themselves. It’s party of the maturation process that kids eventually earn that trust to dine somewhere more elegant. And eating at Be Our Guest is that sort of experience. It’s unquestionably one of the nicest and most upscale eateries at Walt Disney World as well as one of the most popular. The honor of eating here makes children feel as if they’re not that far away from graduating to the grown-ups table, a true rite of passage.

Whispering Canyon

Image: DisneyChoosing between the various restaurants at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is always a mixed bag because they share so many recipes. I’m still going to list two here because the dining experience at each one is so different. Whereas Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue merits selection for its multi-generational elements, Whispering Canyon sells something else: fun. This place is an exercise in ridiculousness, and I mean that in the best way. It’s your cutup of an uncle who pulls practical jokes on everyone, is quick with a smile, and will not rest until he’s made you laugh. With so many gags on display, Whispering Canyon Café undeniably tries too hard and doesn’t have the best signal-to-noise ratio on its jokes. But the intent of this place is to make you feel happy, safe, and content. It accomplishes that goal while providing some hearty flavors that certain seem rich enough that your grandmother could have made them. Whispering Canyon Café consists of loud jokes and comfort food. Doesn’t that remind you of a family dinner?