If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris and looking for a dining experience that combines delicious food with a unique atmosphere, Walt’s – An American Restaurant is a must-visit. Our family of four had the pleasure of dining here for lunch, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. We booked our reservation about 30 days in advance, which I highly recommend, as this popular restaurant tends to fill up quickly.
In this blog post, I’ll share our experience at Walt’s, from the food and service to the magical view we had of the main daytime parade. If you’re considering a meal at Walt’s, read on to find out why it might just be the perfect spot for your family too.
Booking and Arrival
Booking our lunch at Walt’s was easy and straightforward. Knowing how popular the restaurant is, we made our reservation about 30 days in advance. This gave us peace of mind and ensured we could enjoy one of Disneyland Paris’s most iconic dining experiences without the stress of trying to secure a table last minute.
We arrived at Walt’s a little before our reservation time. The restaurant’s location on Main Street, U.S.A., made it convenient to find, and the exterior, with its turn-of-the-century architecture, was charming and inviting. We were immediately struck by the attention to detail, from the elegant decor to the welcoming staff at the entrance. A piano sits in the lobby and waiting area downstairs – one day…
Top tip for arrival: The Lift or Elevator from ground floor to first floor is a work of art. We had a stoller with us and were able to use it. If the opportunity presents itself to use the lift, do it.
The Atmosphere
Walt’s – An American Restaurant is themed as a tribute to Walt Disney himself. The decor is rich in history, with each room dedicated to different lands of Disneyland, such as Adventureland, Fantasyland, and Frontierland. As we walked through the restaurant, we could see the thoughtful design and beautiful touches that make this place so special. The walls are adorned with Disney memorabilia, giving you a sense of being part of the magic.
We were seated in one of the centre rooms (there are multiple little rooms) next to a window in the centre of that room, facing out onto Main Street. This turned out to be a prime spot for our lunch experience, but more on that later. The ambiance of the restaurant was elegant yet comfortable, making it perfect for a family meal. The kids were particularly fascinated by the decor, pointing out the different Disney references throughout the room.
The Menu and Food
The menu at Walt’s offers a variety of American-inspired dishes with a touch of French flair. We found it to be a well-balanced selection that catered to both adults and children. The menu included appetizers, main courses, and desserts, with options ranging from classic American dishes like burgers and ribs to more refined choices like salmon and filet mignon.
The food at Walt’s was truly excellent. Each dish was well-prepared, with high-quality ingredients and attention to detail in the presentation. The portion sizes were generous without being overwhelming, and the flavours were spot-on. It was clear that a lot of care goes into the kitchen at Walt’s, and we were thoroughly impressed.
The Service
The service at Walt’s was attentive and friendly, making us feel welcome from the moment we arrived. Our server was polite and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the meal. Although their English was not the best (please note; you are in France!), I found that my basic French was more than enough to communicate effectively. In fact, the slight language barrier added a charming touch to the experience, and the staff made every effort to ensure we were comfortable and happy.
The pacing of the meal was perfect, with enough time between courses to enjoy the food without feeling rushed. Our server was also very accommodating to the children, making sure they had what they needed and engaging with them in a warm and friendly manner.
The Parade View
One of the highlights of our lunch at Walt’s was the unexpected yet magical view of the main daytime parade. From our window seat, we had a bird’s-eye view of the entire parade as it made its way down Main Street, U.S.A. The kids were absolutely thrilled to see the performers, floats, and characters up close, all while enjoying their meal.
Watching the parade from the comfort of our table was a unique experience that we hadn’t anticipated; of course, I could have used Disneyland’s App to know the time of the parade and that it coincided with my booking, but I hadnt as we had only just flown in from Dublin.
There was no need to jostle for a spot in the crowd or stand for long periods waiting for the parade to start. We had an unobstructed view of everything, from the vibrant floats to the big Maleficent Dragon breathing fire, all while seated comfortably and enjoying our lunch.
The timing was perfect, and the parade added an extra layer of magic to our meal. The kids were captivated by the characters and the spectacle, and it was one of those moments that truly made the day special.
Overall Experience
Our lunch at Walt’s – An American Restaurant was nothing short of magical. The combination of excellent food, attentive service, and the unforgettable view of the parade made it one of the best dining experiences we’ve had at Disneyland Paris.
Was the Experience at Walt’s – An American Restaurant Worth it?
Yes, unquestionably. Theme park food is expensive, and we were not on any dining plan (we never do in Paris, by the way. Too restrictive. Only in Orlando.), and this is not a cheap experience. But I have no complaints over food, service, setting, and thoroughly enjoyed the restaurant experience as a entirity. Its the bits of magic that made this an absolute must do – the parade out the window, the lift (seriously try that lift), the decor, the setting, the view. It’s a must do. It’s the best restaurant I’ve enjoyed at Disneyland Paris.
Would I visit Walt’s – An American Restaurant again?
Yes. Absolutely.
The added bonus of watching the parade from our table was the cherry on top, making the experience even more memorable. It was a relaxing and enjoyable way to take in one of Disneyland Paris’s most popular events without the usual hustle and bustle. Time your visit like this, and it will smash all expectations. That’s how good it was.
Tips for Your Visit to Walt’s
If you’re planning a visit to Walt’s – An American Restaurant, here are a few tips based on our experience:
- Book in Advance and Time It Right: Reservations are essential, especially if you want a window seat to catch the parade. We booked 30 days in advance, and it was well worth it. Staying on site gives you as much time as you need to book.
- Ask for a Window Seat: If you want to watch the parade during your meal, be sure to request a window seat when making your reservation. It’s a unique experience that adds so much to your visit.
- Brush Up on Basic French: While the staff is very accommodating, knowing a bit of French can make the experience smoother and more enjoyable. It’s also appreciated by the servers. This is true for all of Disneyland Paris, and all of France.
- Enjoy the Atmosphere: Take your time to explore the restaurant’s decor and soak in the Disney magic. Each room is themed to different lands, and it’s worth taking a look around.
- Plan Around the Parade: If you’re visiting with children, try to time your meal with the parade. It’s a great way to entertain them and make the meal more enjoyable for everyone.
Conclusion
Walt’s – An American Restaurant in Disneyland Paris is more than just a place to eat; it’s an experience that combines excellent food, Disney magic, and a touch of elegance. Our family’s lunch here was a highlight of our trip, offering delicious meals, top-notch service, and a magical view of the parade that the kids will never forget.
If you’re visiting Disneyland Paris, I highly recommend adding Walt’s to your itinerary. Whether you’re a Disney enthusiast or just looking for a great meal in a unique setting, Walt’s delivers on all fronts. Just be sure to book early, request a window seat, and get ready for a truly magical dining experience.
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