Some of my best childhood memories are of my parents piling us kids into the car and heading for an evening at the local drive-in movie theater. Sadly, most drive-in theaters are things of the past, but you and your family can recapture the nostalgic experience right at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is a one-of-a-kind dining experience in which Guests are transported back to the 1950s. When you arrive you will be seated either in a replica of a classic convertible or at tables under the “stars.” The entire ceiling of the restaurant twinkles with stars so you really feel like you are outside while you eat and watch movie clips from the 1950s that are silly, fantastical and downright hilarious. This is the one restaurant where, consistently, my kids ask to visit on each Disney trip we take, so it is a family favorite for us.
The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is open daily for lunch and dinner. Breakfast has been recently added to the line-up for a limited “test” period from November 1, 2015 to January 23, 2016, but I am sure Guests will be hoping it stays on permanently.
Breakfast: 8:00 AM-10:15 AM
Lunch: 11:00 AM-3:55 PM
Dinner: 4:00 PM-9:00 PM
DIStracted Tip: Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) are strongly recommended for this extremely popular experience and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. However, I have seen several parties walk up right at 11:00 and be seated without reservations. If you can’t secure an ADR, try to walk up near the beginning of a mealtime and hope for some pixie dust.
So, what’s on the menu? Breakfast entrees include the typical eggs, sausage and Mickey Mouse Waffles, with a few unique dishes as well like Brioche French Toast or Shrimp and Grits. Lunch and dinner menus are identical, with so many tasty choices. Adventurous? Be sure to try the Fried Pickles appetizer. Classic favorites such as burgers, fries, onion rings and sandwiches are available, of course, but the extensive menu also includes pasta dishes, salads, and even a Flame-broiled New York Strip Steak. Fries can be subbed for a healthier cucumber salad. And what is a burger without a milk shake? In addition to shakes in several flavors, desserts include the classic Hot Fudge Sundae, Turtle Cheesecake, Fruit Salad or a Warm Glazed Doughnut topped with ice cream. My family’s favorites are the burgers at lunchtime and steak or pasta for dinner. In addition to all of the delicious options, adults can enjoy wine, sangria, specialty cocktails and martinis as well as beer. Whatever you choose, be sure to bring your appetite!
DIStracted Tip: The Disney Dining Plan is accepted at The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant and will count as one table service entitlement per person. Milk shakes are counted as drinks on the plan, so if you really have a sweet tooth, you can enjoy not only a delicious shake, but still indulge in dessert … all included with your dining plan table service credit.
Everyone knows that part of what makes Disney Parks so amazing is the theming. The close attention to detail immerses Guests in the experience. If this is something you love, next time you hit Disney’s Hollywood Studios you definitely need to travel back to the 1950s and dine “under the stars” at The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant.
Betty says
I go to Disney often, but have never got the chance to go to sci-fi cafe! Thanks to you I will make sure I check it out!