There are places that we try to fit in every second or third trip. However, these places I'm listing are locked in every trip for us. Some of them are for the food, atmosphere, service, others are for nostalgic reasons. Our list has changed a little with our son getting older.
Breakfast:
Kona and Boma. It used to be Tusker House, Ohana and Crystal Palace when our son was younger. Early entry in park for two of these. Get some great pictures of Cinderella's castle early morning when the park is empty. Its roped off through, so you can only get so close. Boma and Tusker are almost identical ( I think Boma is better), you don't have the up-charge of characters at Boma.
Brunch: Homecomin'. At Homecomin' brunch, you can order almost anything that is on the main menu as well as what is on the brunch menu. Its a win/win. Get your moonshine sipper early
Lounges: Nomad, Tambu, Trader Sam's, Territory and Three Bridges. These places are all fantastic for different reasons. A couple of these took the place of the next door restaurants we used to visit. Cheaper and faster way to go without being tied down to a reservation.
Lunch/quick eats:
Yak & Yeti , Polite Pig, Boathouse and Sleepy Hollow. We don't generally eat a big lunch (reserved for dinners!) But these four places we always hit. Yak & Yeti restaurant I'm referring to, not outside.
Dinner:
Flying Fish and Boma. This is the toughest part of the list because of changes since covid and general chef changes here and there. My wife and son love Boma's dinner buffet so its always in the plans. Flying Fish was hands down the best signature restaurant on our last trip. It's locked in for next visit.
Ohana dinner and Cali Grill used to be auto reservations for us every trip. Unfortunately, Ohana just isn't the same anymore. I don't care for the changes. I know I am probably in the minority on Cali Grill but I just don't think its anywhere near as good as it used to be. Not a fan of prefixed menus. I do miss going there though. Was always a great night if you timed your reservation right to watch the fireworks. Anyone remember the "snake in the grass"?
Narcoossees, Jiko, Le Cellier, Shulas and Topolino's are all on the "every other trip" list. Jiko was a disappointment last visit. Although I think our waiter was the main reason for our not so good night.
