If you’re looking for a great meal out, Downtown Disney District is the place to be! Even if a day at the Disneyland theme parks isn’t on your schedule, Downtown Disney District is a great place to relax, enjoy a meal and a cocktail, and do some shopping. Whether you’re in the mood for Italian cuisine, a classic sandwich, or a quick juice smoothie, there’s a Downtown Disney dining option for everyone. So without further ado, let’s get started!
Downtown Disney District Restaurant Recommendations
Note – Exciting new experiences are always popping up at Downtown Disney! I try my best to keep this article updated but all offerings listed are subject to change. This is not a complete list of dining options available.
Downtown Disney District – Know Before You Go
Parking – The Downtown Disney lot is located behind the Pixar Place Hotel, with the lot entrance on Disneyland Drive. Follow the signs exact location.
There is a $10 fee to park in the lot and the first hour is free. Get an additional three hours of “free” parking with a $20 minimum purchase and validation from any Downtown Disney location, or an additional five hours of “free” parking with validation from any Downtown Disney table-service restaurant.
Retail shops and dining locations located at any of the three Disneyland Resort hotels do not count towards Downtown Disney parking.
Visitors may also park in the Mickey and Friends parking structure, or Toy Story parking lot at the standard daily rate. Visit this article about Parking at Disneyland for more details.
Naples Ristorante y Pizzeria
Naples Ristorante y Pizzeria at Disneyland Resort is an Italian eatery with a flair for rustic, authentic Neapolitan pizzas. All the pizza doughs are made fresh daily using all-natural ingredients, and the pizzas are quickly baked in wood-fired ovens. The menu offers classic pizza combinations or you can choose your own toppings.
Besides pizzas there are also pasta and salads to choose from, complemented by a wide array of wines, beers, and specialty cocktails. My favorite is the Sangria flight which features a red, white, and rose sangria. Each sangria flavor is available as a stand alone glass as well!
Naples Ristorante features both indoor and outdoor seating. During busy times, they have a second floor available as well. Their outdoor bar, which was remodeled in 2019, is very spacious and has USB outlets for charging your devices.
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Patio & Grill is a dining experience like no other. Celebrating both New Orleans and California cuisine, Jazz Kitchen is a casual, modern eatery with menu options for the whole family.
The star attraction of Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen is undoubtedly its live music performances. Musicians perform nightly (subject to change) in the main dining room.
The menu offers a blend of New Orleans-inspired cuisine and fresh Californian fare, which is sure to satisfy any palate. From classic Gumbo Ya-Ya to their famous specialty Beignets, there’s something for everyone at this restaurant.
The appetizers include seafood favorites like Crispy Calamari and Fried Crawfish Lettuce Wraps. For entrees, guests can indulge in Jambalaya or Lobster Roll. If seafood isn’t your thing, there are burgers and salads to choose from as well. Kids under 10 can choose from Mac & Cheese, Pulled Pork Sliders, and Chicken Tenders.
Solo travelers and couples may be happy to know Jazz Kitchen has a large bartop where the full menu is served. No reservation needed!
Jamba®
Jamba, formerly known as Jamba Juice, is a popular franchise that can be found in various locations across the United States. One of their most notable locations can be found at Downtown Disney District in Disneyland Resort, California. The establishment offers an array of juices and smoothies that cater to different dietary needs and preferences.
One of the most popular types of juice at Jamba is the classic Mango-A-Go-Go, made with mango, orange, and passion fruit. For those who prefer a healthier option, Jamba also offers juice shots that are packed with vitamins and nutrients. I personally love the Great Greens shot, made with lemon, cucumber, apples, and spinach.
(Coming in 2024) Paseo and Centrico
Paseo and Centrico will offer upscale Mexican cuisine created by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan when it opens in Spring 2024. Alongside these two locations, located in the heart of Downtown Disney, Tiendita will serve Mexican street food staples to-go.
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Splitsville at Downtown Disney is a must-visit destination for bowling enthusiasts and foodies alike. This modern take on the traditional bowling alley boasts 20 lanes, each equipped with comfortable seating and state-of-the-art technology to enhance the experience. The ambiance is lively and electric, with neon lights adorning the walls and upbeat music filling the air.
In addition to its top-notch bowling amenities, Splitsville also offers a diverse menu of delicious cuisine. The kitchen serves up everything from classic American fare like burgers and fries to sushi rolls and fresh seafood dishes. Guests can indulge in appetizers like loaded fries or crispy calamari before feasting on entrees such as blackened salmon or glazed pork chops.
Earl of Sandwich
Earl of Sandwich is a popular dining establishment located in the heart of Downtown Disney at Disneyland Resort in California. The restaurant offers guests a unique experience that combines delicious food with an inviting ambiance. As soon as you step inside, you will be greeted by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of Earl of Sandwich.
The decor features vintage-style posters and murals that transport you back to the era when sandwiches were first invented. Guests can order from a vast menu of sandwiches, salads, and soups and take them to-go or enjoy at their open outdoor seating area.
The “tavern” section of the restaurant also has indoor and outdoor seating areas, allowing diners to enjoy their meals while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
When it comes to food, Earl of Sandwich does not disappoint. They offer an extensive menu that includes everything from classic deli sandwiches such as roast beef and turkey to more robust options like the Sesame Ginger Salmon or the Roasted Prime Rib of Beef. A full bar is also available.
Ballast Point Brewing Co.
Ballast Point at Downtown Disney District is a must-visit location for beer enthusiasts. The popular brewery has made a name for itself with its award-winning beers and now has locations across the US, including the one at Downtown Disney. Centrally located within Downtown Disney, Ballast Point offers visitors a unique experience that combines great beer with delicious food.
The restaurant’s interior is stylishly decorated with an industrial feel that complements the brand’s nautical aesthetic. The space features an open tasting bar where they can sample signature brews such as Sculpin IPA or Fathom IPL. Visitors can also take advantage of the outdoor patio overlooking Downtown Disney while sipping on a refreshing ale or lager.
Ballast Point at Downtown Disney is an excellent addition to the Disneyland Resort in California. It offers a wide variety of food options, ranging from small plates to entrees and desserts.
The menu at Ballast Point features classic American pub fare with a twist. Guests can enjoy appetizers like crispy calamari or buffalo cauliflower before moving on to entrees that include burgers, fish and chips, and grilled cheese sandwiches. For those who prefer something lighter, there are salads such as the kale Caesar salad or the roasted beet salad topped with goat cheese. Desserts include classic favorites like chocolate cake and apple pie as well as creative options like beer float made with one of their signature brews.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
Black Tap at Downtown Disney in is a must-visit restaurant for those who crave delicious burgers and fries. But they are probably best known for the CrazyShake® – decadent milkshakes that are piled high with toppings like cotton candy, lollipops, and cupcakes.
The restaurant has been designed to capture the essence of an NYC diner but with a modern twist. The interior décor is all about bold colors and eye-catching patterns that make guests feel as if they’re walking into a retro candy store. The seating area is spacious enough to accommodate large groups or families while still providing an intimate dining experience. An open kitchen concept allows diners to see their meals being prepared by skilled chefs who take pride in creating each dish from scratch.
The food menu at Black Tap features an array of burgers, wings, and salads, with something to suit everyone’s tastes. Some of their signature dishes include the All-American Burger, Greg Norman Burger, Crispy Chicken Sandwich, and Texan Burger. Vegetarians and vegans can also get an Impossible All-American burger made with Impossible “meat.”
Salt & Straw
Salt & Straw is an artisan ice cream shop that originated in Portland, Oregon, and has now made its way to Downtown Disney. This small-batch ice cream parlor offers unique flavors that are handcrafted daily using the freshest ingredients. Salt & Straw’s menu features a rotating assortment of flavors, including classic favorites like Chocolate Gooey Brownie and seasonal specialties like Thanksgiving Stuffing.
What sets Salt & Straw apart from other ice cream shops is their commitment to creating innovative and adventurous flavor combinations. They use unexpected ingredients such as sea salt, olive oil, and even blue cheese to create unforgettable taste experiences. Some of their most popular flavors include Honey Lavender, Strawberry Honey Basalmic with Black Pepper, and Almond Brittle with Salted Ganache.
(Coming in 2024) Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is a Taiwanese restaurant chain that specializes in Xiao Long Bao, also known as soup dumplings. The restaurant was founded in Taipei, Taiwan, and has since expanded to over 150 locations worldwide. Its popularity is due to the quality of its food, which is made from scratch daily using quality ingredients.
In addition to soup dumplings, Din Tai Fung also offers a variety of other dishes such as wontons, fried rice, and braised beef noodle soup.
Downtown Disney District – Dining Summary
With its unique dining options, Downtown Disney District offers something for everyone. From classic American favorites, to real Italian style pizza and pasta, to soup dumplings, Downtown Disney really does have it all. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite after your day at the parks or a full sit-down meal experience, Downtown Disney is sure to impress!
