There are so many tips to help everyone plan and make the most of their day at Disneyland Resort; a tried and true Disney travel tip for our family has always been to enjoy a meal at a sit down restaurant when visiting the parks. It gives us all a break from the sun and gets everyone off of their feet so you can recharge before heading back into the parks.  Carthay Circle Restaurant is located in California Adventure Park and is an all-time family favorite.

Dining at Carthay Circle

Carthay Circle is centrally located in California Adventure Park and thus means you may need to wait for a small amount of time for a table.  We have been here countless times both as a family and with friends and the most we have ever waited for a table was twenty minutes when we needed a table for ten.

The lounge area is open seating and convenient when you want to grab a quick bite to eat.  The seating outside of the lounge is also available for dining but you are limited to appetizers and smaller meals from the lounge menu.

The actual dining room is located upstairs and embodies the history of Walt Disney and the history of Carthay Circle Theatre, where Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs debuted in 1937. You must experience the full dining room experience at least one time.

Insider Tip:  We have always found tables in the lounge area and rarely make a reservation.  The staff is incredibly friendly and always offers our children the full kids menu while my husband and I enjoy appetizers that are plenty filling, along with a cocktail.   

For Children

Our kids love that they can get good kids meals at Carthay Circle Restaurant and relax for awhile between all of the fun in the Disney Parks.  One of their favorite meals is the grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup but they also enjoy a few chips from our meals.

If you are traveling with children under four, you will probably be most comfortable upstairs in the full dining room.  If you dine in the lounge area, the areas outside the actual bar are spacious and allow enough space for your children to be up and around if they need to.

For Adults

All you have to do is walk a few steps inside Carthay Circle Restaurant to realize how special this restaurant is. Adults love the vibe in the lounge and parents of any age child enjoy the ability to unwind and get a little “parent” time while dining through good food, Disney service and finer drinks.

The upstairs dining area is home to a smaller dining room with a balcony that is perfect for group gatherings. If you are dining upstairs and know a show is on the schedule in the central area of California Adventure Park, be sure to go outside on the balcony to enjoy the show from a different perspective.  Everyone in the family will love seeing the magic of the park come to life from Carthay Circle Restaurant.

Don’t miss the fun and excitement of Disneyland’s Diamond Celebration this year as well!