There are many fabulous places to eat inside the Disneyland Resort, however, Downtown Disney has diverse options to fit your dining needs as well. I have put together a list of top 10 restaurants in Downtown Disney (in no particular order)

Rainforest Cafe: This is my personal favorite Downtown Disney restaurant mostly because of the atmosphere. To me, it’s similar to what the Tiki Room would have been like if they went with the original plans in the 60’s and made it a restaurant. I enjoy the food and love the Volcano dessert. Price wise, I’d say that the prices are similar to a sit down restaurant in the parks.

House of Blues: Good music, good food, and good spirits. You really can’t go wrong when going to House of Blues, and it helps that the happy hour is fantastic! The lobster mac & cheese is one of my favorite dishes they offer. Most of the entrees are southern/creole inspired.

Catal Restaurant: If you are wanting a little Mediterranean taste, Catal is the place for you. Especially at night, try to get a table outside because the view is great and it’s nice to sit and listen to the musicians play down on the street. This place can get pretty expensive, so make sure to work that into your budget if you want to visit. There is also the popular Uva Bar & Cafe which is part of the restaurant and smack dab in the middle of Downtown Disney. Another great place to stop for happy hour.

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen: A little piece of New Orleans in Southern California, why not? This place serves up some great southern hospitality and some down home creole food to go with it, the jazz music that’s playing throughout your dining experience is a treat as well. However, I must admit I do prefer the creole food inside Disneyland at New Orleans Square to the Jazz kitchen, but it’s still a great place to eat in Downtown Disney.

ESPN Zone: This is always my husbands vote if we decide to eat in Downtown Disney, it’s a good place to get some comfort American food, watch some sports, and play a few games. I usually protest to the idea because I like a little calmer of an atmosphere after walking around the parks all day, but still a fun place to eat.

Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria: Mmmm… Pizza! What a great way to refuel your energy than with a big slice of pizza! There are also many other delicious dining options as well in their menu. I always enjoy eating here and love getting my favorite comfort food fix, pizza! A delightful slice of Italy in a convenient location.

Tortilla Jo’s: Out of all of the Downtown Disney restaurants, I’ve always had the best experience with the shortest wait time here. If you have a bigger group, they have very large tables to accommodate your needs. Very good Mexican food, service, and atmosphere.

La Brea Bakery Cafe: A great place for some healthier options, but also have delicious comport food like grilled cheese. I love stopping here and getting a salad for lunch or a quick breakfast stop. It is the closest restaurant to the parks after you walk into Downtown Disney.

Earl of Sandwich: This is my go to place for a satisfying sandwich. Unlike the previous listed restaurants, this is a quick service restaurant. The sandwiches are a little bit less expensive than the ones you would purchase in the park, and just as good if not better.

Quick service versions: Tortilla Jo’s, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria, and La Brea Bakery Cafe all have “quick service” versions of their restaurants. Tortilla Jo’s has Taqueria, RB’s Jazz Kitchen has Jazz Kitchen Express, Naples has Napolini, and La Brea Bakery has La Brea Bakery Express. Even though I love taking a rest at sit down restaurants, it’s very nice they have these options if you are in a rush.

A word to the wise, always make reservations if you can at these Downtown Disney restaurants. Not only are the park guests going here, but local residents as well. Any restaurants in the Disneyland Resort are a safe bet for good food, however it’s nice to have the Downtown Disney dining options.

– Kelsee