Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: a perfect place to dine-Photo by Lisa McBride

Friends always ask me for Disney Dining recommendations. They want a casual and quick, but special dining experience, often one that does not require a theme park ticket.  Our go-to departure day counter service restaurant is Gasparilla Island Grill. Tucked in the back of the main lobby of the regal Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Gasparilla Island Grill is a casual eatery that is open 24 hours a day for Guests to enjoy.  Serving breakfast, lunch, dinner and a late night menu, Gasparilla Island Grill is the spot for grab-and-go food items, snacks and drinks as well. Looking for an early morning cup of coffee or for a place to top off your refillable mug?  This is the spot!

Disney Dining at Gasparilla Island Grill

Prior to the major renovation in 2013, Gasparilla Grill and Games was a one-stop-shop for my family. As a kid, my family vacationed at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa yearly. My siblings and I loved the concept of eating and playing video games all in the same spot. During the renovation, however, removal of the arcade opened up plenty of room for seating. The décor of the restaurant definitely improved. Gasparilla Island Grill now features warm green and chocolate brown chairs and booths. But the truly magical seats are outside. Our favorite tables overlook the Seven Seas Lagoon and the iconic Cinderella Castle across the water at the Magic Kingdom Theme Park.  It does not matter how hot it may be outside. My family will not enjoy our meal without the amazing scenery!

Breakfast at Gasparilla Island Grill

Menus are pretty comprehensive and offer Guests a wide variety of favorites. Breakfast boasts the typical eggs and bacon, in addition to breakfast sandwiches, pancakes hot off the grill and everyone’s favorite Mickey-shaped waffles. Pastries, bagels, muffins, cereal and oatmeal are available as well, with fruit and yogurt.  Additionally, with choices like juice, cappuccino, PowerAde and chocolate milk…the variety of beverages is pretty amazing.

Disney Dining at its best: Breakfast!

Lunch and Dinner at Gasparilla Island Grill

No Guest will go hungry at lunch or dinner either! Lunch and dinner items include typical burgers, as well as sandwiches and chicken nuggets. But the flatbread pizzas really deserve top billing here. The Margherita Pizza is delicious and my kids definitely gobbled up the Gourmet Pepperoni Pizza as well.  Another delicious and healthy option is the Create-Your-Own-Salad.  Choose your lettuce, toppings and grilled chicken, flank steak or vegan chick’n chunks to create the perfect culinary masterpiece. In addition, hot soup is always a favorite Disney Dining option, along with several kids’ options, including healthy Mickey Check Meals.

Late Night, Snacks and Desserts at Gasparilla Island Grill

After a late night at the Disney Theme Parks, Gasparilla Island Grill serves up their Late Night Menu, offering pizzas and a variety of grab-and-go snacks as well. Finally, for Guests who have a sweet tooth, this is the spot. It is super convenient to grab a cookie, gourmet cupcake, brownie or soft-serve ice cream at Gasparilla Island Grill. Or even a heathy option like veggies and hummus, a granola bar or fruit cup.

DIStracted Tip: You don’t have to be a Guest at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa to enjoy Gasparilla Island Grill.  Take a break from your day at the Magic Kingdom Theme Park and hop on the resort monorail or resort boat.  Either mode of transportation is an easy way to head over for a quick meal. Plus,  Arcadia Games didn’t move too far. It is right next door, so your group can still get their video game on!

Hours of Operation

Breakfast: 6:30AM-11:00AM

Lunch/Dinner: 11:00AM-11:30PM

Late Night: 11:30PM-6:30AM

The Disney Dining Plan is also accepted in this fabulous location. Each full meal will count as one counter service entitlement. Additionally, many Disney Dining Plan snacks are available for purchase as well.  So if you are looking for a casual, tasty meal with amazing views, look no further. Gasparilla Island Grill is sure to be a hit with your family too!