Disney’s Contemporary Resort is Magic Kingdom’s next-door neighbor. It’s an excellent spot for those who need a break from the hustle and bustle of the park or would rather eat outside of Magic Kingdom. I have hopped on the monorail to the resort several times to grab a bite and decompress, and I highly recommend doing this. Let’s look at all the food options that can be found at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Contemporary Resort Quick Service
Contempo Cafe
The Contemporary Resorts Contempo Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night dining. It’s in the center of the Grand Canyon Concourse, and while enjoying your meal, you can see the monorail fly by and see the characters walking about in Chef Mickey’s Buffet.
Here’s how Disney describes the quick service location.
Soak up your surroundings as you ponder your next meal. Situated on the Grand Canyon Concourse, this eatery boasts a prime view of monorails buzzing by—and the 90-foot mural by Mary Blair, the legendary artist behind “it’s a small world.” You’ll also find a diverse menu of fare, including flatbreads, salads, sandwiches and a tempting array of cupcakes infused with Disney magic.
Disney World Website
Contemporary Resort Character Dining
Chef Mickey’s
Chef Mickey’s is open for Breakfast and Dinner. Previously this location was buffet style and is currently family style. For those of you who miss the buffet, don’t worry because the restaurant will be returning to buffet style on March 1st, 2023. Of course, guests will meet their favorite characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Goofy while dining.
Here’s how Disney describes the character dining experience.
Experience Character Dining and an enhanced all-you-care-to-eat, family-style meal in a bright, happy space. As the monorail whizzes by, soak up the expansive views of Bay Lake and behold the stunning 90-foot-high mural by Disney Legend Mary Blair that overlooks the festive eatery. Each table will receive a special, autographed card keepsake from Mickey and his friends. Throughout the dining experience, Mickey Mouse and some favorite pals will make surprise appearances in each of the dining rooms. See them move throughout the restaurant, waving hello as rollicking music fills the air.
Disney World Website
Contemporary Resort Table Service
Steakhouse 71
Steakhouse 71 is located just off the lobby in the Contemporary Resort and has become a highly-recommended hidden gem since it switched over from The Wave. The restaurant’s theme harkens back to the design style of the 1970s, reimagined in a contemporary, comfortable and sleek way. The space gives off a vibe that is similar to the former Steakhouse 55 that used to be located inside The Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, CA, and even plays the soundtrack from that location.
Diners can feast on a delicious menu that offers a nod to Walt Disney himself with dishes inspired by some of Walt’s favorites, including The Steakhouse 71 Feast or Walt’s Prime Rib Hash for breakfast and French Onion Soup, Prime Rib, 6-oz Filet Mignon or Dry-aged Bone-In Pork Chop for lunch or dinner. Classic cocktails and a portfolio of Disney family wines are also available.
Here’s how Disney describes the dining experience.
Get a taste of Disney heritage when you dine at the newest restaurant in Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Named for the year Disney’s Contemporary Resort first opened, Steakhouse 71 harkens back to the design style of the 1970s, reimagined in a contemporary, comfortable and sleek way. You’ll even notice some Florida flair—such as Orange Bird and citrus groves—mixed in with the décor.
Disney World Website
California Grill
One of the best views of the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom Park is from the California Grill on the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. If you’re lucky enough to dine here during fireworks, the music is piped in, so you can get the full effect of the show. If you don’t get a good enough view from your table, head outside to the terrace area* surrounding the restaurant for the best view on property. The restaurant menu changes according to the season and specializes in Californian-style cuisine.
*The terrace is only for restaurant guests. However, if you are done with dinner before it’s time for fireworks, bring back your receipt, and you will be allowed up to the terrace. Same day only.
Here’s how Disney describes the current dining experience.
Step into a bygone era as we usher in the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort. Evoking the spirit of 1971, California Grill celebrates its past while offering a nod to the incredible future ahead.
Sit down to a 3-course tasting experience offering dishes designed to bring this celebration to life—from succulent steak and seafood to flavorful plant-based options.
Disney World Website
Contemporary Resort Lounges & Bars
Outer Rim Lounge
At the Outer Rim Lounge, you can enjoy cocktails and appetizers as you feast your eyes on a spectacular view of Bay Lake.
Here’s how Disney describes the lounge.
Admire stunning views of Bay Lake with specialty cocktails before—or after—dinner. Try a Piña CoLAVA, Watermelon Margarita, Blue “Glow-tini” or more! A full bar menu is also available.
Disney World Website
Sand Bar
Have a drink and snack by the pool. There is a walk-up window where you can order food. Inside is a bar that serves a limited number of frozen drinks and beer.
Here’s how Disney describes the poolside bar.
Picnic poolside with burgers, hot dogs and more. Tropical cocktails, draft beer, sangria and wine make it even more fun! Or cool off with a full bar menu and some AC inside the enclosed bar. Dessert items are also available.
Disney World Website
I love the Contempo Cafe; it’s quick, and the food never disappoints. Watching the monorails pass by while enjoying my meal is also really fun. Which dining location do you prefer when visiting Disney’s Contemporary Resort?
