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Spectacular Sips and Sights: Fireworks Dining at Disney World

Spectacular Sips and Sights: Fireworks Dining at Disney World

Dreaming of dining with a dazzling view of Disney World’s fireworks? You’re in the right place. This post will give you tips and a list of the best restaurants at Disney World for watching the fireworks.

Let’s dive in!

General tips for booking restaurants at Disney World for fireworks viewing

  • Make your reservation for around an hour before the nighttime show is scheduled to start.
  • There is no way to guarantee a fireworks view. When you check in, ask kindly to be seated where you can see/view the show, but know that sometimes it just isn’t possible.
  • If you don’t mind waiting longer for a table, it doesn’t hurt to ask if you can hold out for a spot with a view.
  • While many tables may be near windows, there are not many that have a “perfect” view. Your line of sight might include trees, pillars, etc.
  • Recent reports indicate that all the restaurants listed below pipe in music for the shows; however, there have also been reports in the past in which some have not. If having the music is important to you, it might be a good idea to confirm that the music will be there before you book.

Magic Kingdom fireworks shows

While you can catch bits and pieces of the fireworks from several of the restaurants inside the Magic Kingdom, your best bet to view the fireworks while dining comes from locations outside of the park.

It is important to note, however, that while the fireworks will be visible from these locations, the projections that accompany the show will not.

California Grill

California Grill is a popular location for dinner. Not only are the views fantastic of Magic Kingdom, but the food is top-notch. There’s also a special plant-based menu, so be sure to ask for that option if you need it.

california grill contemporary

Location type: Fine/Signature Dining
Type of food: American, Seafood, Sushi
Meals Served: Dinner
Seating Available: Indoor

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 2 Table Service credit(s)
  • Pros: Great service and ambiance, amazing food (especially if you like sushi) with a great view of Magic Kingdom fireworks (if you eat earlier in the day, you can return with your receipt to view fireworks at night from their private balcony area)
  • Cons: Expensive, limited options for kids

How are the views of the fireworks from Califorina Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort?

The Good: Viewing deck available for patrons in addition to fabulous views throughout the restaurant. Can eat an earlier meal, leave, and then return with your receipt to watch fireworks from the viewing area.

The Not So Good: The angle of view from this restaurant means that you’ll be watching the fireworks from off to the side instead of straight on, and you won’t be able to see the projections from this distance.


Narcoossee’s

A fine dining experience on the waterfront with panoramic views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom.

narcoossee's at grand floridian

Location type: Fine/Signature Dining
Type of food: American, Seafood
Meals Served: Dinner
Seating Available: Indoor

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 2 table service credit
  • Pros: Fantastic seafood and amazing views including being able to see the fireworks from the Magic Kingdom
  • Cons: Expensive, waits can sometimes be long for food

How are the views of the fireworks from Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort?

The Good: The interior of the restaurant is tiered, which helps to maximize the number of tables that can see out the windows. In addition, there is a porch available for viewing the fireworks from outside.

The Not So Good: Although the deck outside is a pro, it can also be a con since people on the deck may block the views of those dining inside the restaurant.


‘Ohana

‘Ohana is a popular Table Service location that serves breakfast and dinner, with the former featuring beloved characters. The family-style food is also usually a hit here, especially the noodles and bread pudding.

ohana polynesian

Location type: Family-style, Character dining
Type of food: American, Polynesian
Meals Served: Breakfast & dinner
Seating Available: Indoor

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 Table Service credit(s)
  • Pros: Food options to please most anybody (all-you-can-eat American breakfast, lots of meat options for dinner plus the much-beloved bread pudding for dessert, and plant-based choices), characters appear (Lilo, Stitch, Mickey, and others), kids are included in activities during the meal
  • Cons: Popular spot so reservations are hard to get, check in can take a long time so maybe even consider arriving early for your reservation
  • Tips: Book ASAP if you are interested in eating here; breakfast hours extend until 12:00 pm which makes it a great place to grab a late breakfast

How are the views of the fireworks from ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort?

The Good: One of the lesser expensive of the options for viewing the Magic Kingdom fireworks while dining. The view of the fireworks appear straight behind the castle and not off to the side. If you aren’t able to book an Advanced Dining Reservation that will allow you to dine during the fireworks, you can try to snag one for earlier in the evening, then move to the beach at the resort and watch the fireworks from there.

The Not So Good: Tables further back in the restaurant will require you to move/stand in order to see the fireworks.

Epcot fireworks shows

Since the World Showcase wraps around the World Showcase Lagoon, which is the stage for Luminous, you have several choices of restaurants at Disney World for fireworks viewing from which to dine while you catch at least a partial view of the show.

The 2 best locations for fireworks viewing here – Spice Road Table in Morocco and The Rose & Crown in Epcot offer special Epcot Fireworks Dining Packages, which get you the prime seats for fireworks views.

If this is your first time seeing Luminous, your best bet to view the show as intended will be to find one of the many fantastic viewing spots along the perimeter of the lagoon.

However, if you are a Luminous vet or you just want to add a little extra entertainment or romance to a meal and don’t mind having a slightly (or more) obstructed view, then dining at one of the options below might be for you.

La Hacienda de San Angel

la hacienda san angel - epcot - mexico pavilion

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: Mexican
Meals Served: Dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit
  • Pros: Fresh Mexican dishes, options to sit indoors or on an outdoor terrace (if you arrive about 1-1.5 hours before fireworks, you can try to request a table with a view)
  • Cons: Service and food quality can be inconsistent

How are the views of the fireworks from La Hacienda de San Angel?

Pros: Some of the best views for dining while watching Luminous.

Cons: Some areas of the restaurant have no lagoon view at all, meaning you would have to watch Luminous from the back of one of the dining areas that has a view.


Shiki-Sai Sushi Izakaya

shiki-Sai sushi izakaya restaurant in epcot's japan pavilion

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: Asian, Japanese, Sushi
Meals Served: Lunch and dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit
  • Pros: Large menu with an extensive sushi and nigiri selection
  • Cons: Menu isn’t approachable for picky eaters

How are the views of the fireworks from Shiki-Sai: Sushi Izakaya?

The Good: There is an available public walkway outside if your seat doesn’t have good views.

The Not So Good: Since there are several large pillars that can block your view, the best views are those along the windows. In addition, even though the outdoor walkway is slightly below the restaurant, you may still have people outside blocking your view from inside.


Spice Road Table

spice road table - epcot - Morocco

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: Mediterranean
Meals Served: Lunch and dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit
  • Pros: Wide variety of small plates and alcoholic beverages
  • Cons: May not be ideal for kids or picky eaters

How are the views of the fireworks from Spice Road Table?

The Good: A large portion of this restaurant is outdoors, which means there are slightly more tables available with water views.

The Not So Good: The best tables are reserved for people who purchase the Spice Road Fireworks Dining Package. But, even with the package if your table is outside, the low-hanging ceiling might obstruct your view of the higher fireworks. Additionally, the islands in the lagoon can obstruct some aspects of the show.


Monsieur Paul

monsieur paul - epcot - france pavilion

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: French
Meals Served: Dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 2 table service credit
  • Pros: Quiet restaurant with upscale offerings like filet mignon, escargot, duck breast, and creme brulee
  • Cons: Expensive

How are the views of the fireworks from Monsieur Paul?

The Good: Since this restaurant is on the 2nd floor, there are fabulous lagoon views out the windows.

The Not So Good: There are very few tables that are positioned in front of windows and since the windows are small compared to other restaurants, people sitting further back will have a very limited view.


Rose & Crown Dining Room

Rose & Crown Dining Room

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: British
Meals Served: Dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit
  • Pros: Good food and service, offers an authentic British pub experience
  • Cons: The menu is quite small, dining room and bar area can get crowded

How are the views of the fireworks from Rose & Crown?

Pros: Probably the best view of the fireworks while dining.

Cons: The best tables are reserved for people who have purchased a Fireworks Dining Package.

Additional firework viewing options for Epcot

There are a couple of restaurants outside Epcot where you can see the fireworks shows at Epcot.

These spots are further away, but the restaurants themselves are delicious and being able to catch some of the show can be the cherry on top of a lovely date night:

Topolino’s Terrace (Disney’s Riviera Resort)

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: French & Italian
Meals Served: Breakfast and Dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit for breakfast and 2 for dinner
  • Pros: Stunning views, more elegent and less noisy than other restaurants, one of the best character breakfasts at Disney World, easy access to both Epcot and Hollywood Studios via the Skyliner
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive and the menu is smaller

How are the views of the fireworks from Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort?

The Good: You get a panoramic view of Disney World and seeing the show from that angle is unique. There’s a large terrace outside where you can also watch the show from.

The Not So Good: You’re pretty far away from Epcot, and depending on your table you may have most of the show obstructed unless you go out onto the terrace.

Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood (Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort)

coronado springs resort

Location type: Table Service
Type of food: Seafood, steak, Spanish
Meals Served: Dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 1 table service credit
  • Pros: Stunning views, gorgeous interior, and excellent service
  • Cons: Slightly more expensive and the menu is smaller, fireworks views aren’t as good from here as you can get closer to the parks

How are the views of the fireworks from Toledo at Coronado Springs Resort?

The Good: Since you are high up, much like at Topolino’s, you get a unique perspective of the show.

The Not So Good: You’re pretty far away from Epcot, and the views can be obstructed.

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties

Throughout the year, Disney offers premium (read: expensive) experiences that provide guests with reserved viewing locations the fireworks at Magic Kingdom.

And while they used to have similar dessert parties for Epcot (and even Animal Kingdom way back when they had a nighttime show!) the only ones that are still around focus on the fireworks at Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom In-Park Dessert Parties

While not a full meal, you can expect to have an assortment of desserts and beverages (including alcohol) available while you wait for shows to start.

They aren’t cheap, but they can be a fantastic way to view the show without fighting the crowds.

There are 3 different options that guests can choose when booking:

  • Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Pre-Party
  • Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Post Party (our favorite of the 3)
  • Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Seats & Sweets (the only one where you sit in chairs)

The dessert party portion for all 3 options takes place at the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant (label number 5 on the map below).

Pre and Post Party guests watch fireworks from the area labeled with a number 1 on the map below, while those that have the Seats & Sweets have tables and chairs for viewing at number 3.

magic kingdom dessert parties

What are the Differences between the 3 party options?

The dessert portion of all the parties occurs in the Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant, where you eat desserts at tables and chairs.

  • The Happily Ever After Pre-Party and the Seats and Sweets parties both start with desserts in the Tomorrowland Terrace restaurant before the fireworks. 
  • Seats and Sweets is the only one where you view the fireworks from a chair (the other 2 you stand).
  • The Happily Ever After Post Party begins with the fireworks viewing and then moves to Tomorrowland Terrace to enjoy desserts after Happily Ever After is over.

When it comes time for fireworks, each option gives you a slightly different experience. Prices vary slightly depending upon date, but we’ve provided the range you can expect below:

dessert parties comparison chart

Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Pre-Party

  • Cost: $99 to $109 for adults (ages 10 and up), $59 for kids (ages 3 to 9)
  • Fireworks view: After dining on desserts and as the time for fireworks nears, Plaza Garden Viewing people are escorted from the restaurant to a reserved grassy area (the area labeled with a number 6 on the map above). The view from this location is pretty close to straight on and near enough to clearly see the projections on the castle, however, the view of the projections on Main Street is partially blocked. Important note: keep in mind that Post Party guests are being seated in the viewing area while you are dining on your desserts and since spots for viewing are first-come, first-served, if the view of the fireworks is the most important thing for you, you’ll get a better spot with the Post Party option.
  • Seating for fireworks?: Guests that book the Happily Ever After Pre-Party don’t have chairs to watch the fireworks from; however, you’ll be able to sit on the faux grass until show time.
fireworks dessert party viewing area

Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Post-Party

  • Cost: $99 to $109 for adults (ages 10 and up), $59 for kids (ages 3 to 9)
  • Fireworks view: Guests that choose the Post Party will have first dibs on spots inside the reserved fireworks viewing area (the area labeled with a 6 on the map above).
  • Seating for fireworks?: Guests that book the Happily Ever After Post Party don’t have chairs to watch the fireworks from; however, you’ll be able to sit on the faux grass until show time.
fireworks dessert party viewing area

Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties: Happily Ever After Seats & Sweets

  • Cost: $119 to $129 (ages 10 and up), $75 for kids (ages 3 to 9)
  • Fireworks view:  The view from this location is slightly off centered, and although the projections are still visible, you may miss some details from this angle.
  • Seating: Guests booking this option will have chairs available to sit on while watching the fireworks, although many (if not most) of the people that aren’t seated by the rail choose to either stand or to move their chair up closer to the railing that surrounds the restaurant at show time.
seats and sweets dessert party fireworks view

Keep in mind that the following applies to all 3 dessert parties: Theme park admission is required and not included in the dining package price. You must also make a theme park reservation.

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties Outside the Park

Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise

Just like other Magic Kingdom Dessert Parties, the Ferrytale Fireworks dessert cruise lets you savor the magic of Disney’s fireworks while indulging in an array of delicious desserts and drinks (yes, they have both non-alcoholic and alcoholic options!).

ferrytale fireworks a sparkling dessert cruise

But, just like the in-park options, the Ferrytale Fireworks cruise is not cheap.

The Ferrytale Fireworks: A Sparkling Dessert Cruise costs (tax and gratuity is included):

  • $130 per adult
  • $80 per child (ages 3 to 9)

When you board the Ferrytale Fireworks dessert cruise, you’ll embark on a ferryboat ride around the Seven Seas Lagoon. Included in the experience is a variety of desserts, such as cupcakes, cookies, and other Disney-themed sweets. You’ll also have access to a selection of beverages, both non-alcoholic and alcoholic, including signature cocktails.

As the boat sails, it positions itself for an optimal view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. This allows you to enjoy the spectacular display from a unique and comfortable vantage point, away from the crowded park areas. The cruise provides a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience the fireworks while indulging in tasty treats and drinks.

Celebration at the Top – Sip, Savor, and Sparkle

Another dessert party option to view the fireworks outside of Magic Kingdom is the Celebration at the Top party at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

This party is a little bit different, though, in that there is a dress code. Disney says:

This is a Disney Signature Dining experience offering fine dining with a distinctly magical flair. Guests are expected to dress accordingly in attire that respects the sophisticated and upscale aesthetic of this experience. Clothing should be clean, neat and in good condition. Please no swimwear.

Celebration at the Top – Sip, Savor, Sparkle (tax and gratuity is extra):

  • $129 per person

At this dessert party, you get to dine on some of the great food from California Grill, including sushi and other small bites. Plus, in addition to the savory items there are plenty of desserts and drinks including wine, beers, and cordials.

As for the fireworks view, you’ll watch from outside on a part of the observation deck that is reserved for guests of Celebration at the Top.

But save room because after the fireworks are over, you’ll head back inside for more goodies including a spread of petit four desserts, cordials and coffee.

Places to view the fireworks without paying extra

Although dinner with a view is always nice, it can also be nice to save some money. So, if you’re looking for some other options to watch fireworks from outside of the park without shelling out money for a meal or dessert party, here are our top choices:

  • Beach at the Polynesian Resort
  • Transportation and Ticket Center dock
  • The top deck of the Orange Parking Garage at Disney Springs

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What about Fantasmic? Although there is a dinner package you can book for Fantasmic!, you can’t actually see the show from where you dine. It just provides you with access to a special seating section inside the theater, so that’s why we didn’t include it on this list.

Have you ever tried one of these restaurants at Disney World for fireworks viewing? Comment below and let us know what you thought!