For years, certain Disney World restaurants and experiences have been the butt of complaints, from bad food to dated theming to a total identity crisis in an entire park.

For years, certain restaurants and experiences have been the butt of complaints, from bad food to dated theming to a total identity crisis in an entire park. But lately, the conversation has started to shift. Some fans are softening their harsh reviews and finding reasons to give old favorites another chance, while others are doubling down that things just aren’t what they used to be. Here are four places and experiences Disney adults are rethinking — for better or for worse.

‘Ohana

‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is one of those restaurants that has lived through both the highest highs and the lowest lows in the eyes of fans. For a long stretch, the reviews were not exactly glowing. Guests complained about inconsistent food quality, rushed service, and a vibe that didn’t match the price tag. Some even argued that the noodles — a fan-favorite staple — weren’t enough to justify the dining experience anymore.

A big part of the debate centers on how much the quality has slipped compared to its earlier years. One Redditor put it bluntly: “It’s bad compared to 2012.” Another longtime fan added, “Even that wasn’t as good as 2006 or earlier after they removed the shrimp… Without the skewers, the taste and quality will never be as good as it was.” For guests who have been coming since the ‘90s, the shift from fresh skewers to food served in heated bowls still stings.

Despite the criticism, the restaurant still has a loyal following. Many agree that if you time your dinner with the fireworks, it’s hard to beat the atmosphere, even if the food doesn’t feel like it did fifteen years ago. For Disney adults, the nostalgia factor and the Polynesian’s unique setting are enough to keep ‘Ohana in the rotation — even if the debate over quality never really goes away.

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Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

Tony’s Town Square in Magic Kingdom has been on the receiving end of some brutal feedback over the years. For a long time, it was practically a punchline — “don’t waste your money at Tony’s” became a common refrain. Fans often described the food as bland, overpriced, or forgettable, which is a tough label for any restaurant to shake off.

But lately, there’s been a noticeable shift. Part of that is thanks to the menu getting some much-needed updates, and part of it is because certain items have become standouts in their own right. For example, we’ve talked about two particular dishes: Tony’s Garlic Bread For The Table and the Fried Mozzarella.

We’re not exaggerating when we say these will change how you think about garlic bread and mozzarella sticks forever. The garlic bread comes with a Parmesan Fonduta that’s downright heavenly, and the giant mozzarella sticks are the kind of indulgent, melty, crispy snack we’d come back for again and again. Honestly, we’d come to this restaurant for these two dishes alone.

That said, not everyone is convinced Tony’s has fully turned the corner. Some Disney adults still say it’s not worth using one of your rare table-service meals in Magic Kingdom when you could grab a better bite elsewhere. The Lady and the Tramp theming and prime location at the front of the park definitely add to its charm, but critics argue that the entrées can still feel inconsistent.

The truth probably lies somewhere in the middle. If you’re after the absolute best food in Magic Kingdom, Tony’s isn’t it. But if you’re looking for a cozy atmosphere, a spot that’s easier to book than other table-service restaurants, and a chance to devour some of the best garlic bread and mozz sticks on property, then Tony’s might surprise you — and it’s certainly surprising a lot of Disney adults who used to dismiss it completely.

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California Grill

California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort used to be a crown jewel on many fans’ dining lists. The sweeping views of Magic Kingdom fireworks paired with an elevated menu made it a bucket list-worthy experience.

But when the restaurant rolled out a prix fixe menu a while back that was tied to Disney World’s 50th anniversary, the tone of reviews changed quickly. Many fans complained that the cost felt too high for a menu that limited choices and didn’t live up to past standards.

Since the anniversary ended, Disney has introduced new menu updates, and the shift is clear — but the price point is still a sticking spot. Some guests love the dishes and service but continue to question whether it justifies the cost. One recent TripAdvisor reviewer, TOURtheWORLDMexPal, summed it up by saying,

“The concept of must pick one appetizer, one entrée, and one dessert… seems awkward for fixed price of $85. (With Wagyu extra charge). No drinks included… Food overall is not bad at all… The location, the view and the opportunity to watch the fireworks is what you pay for, not for the food.”

That perspective captures exactly why Disney adults are divided. On one hand, the sushi, steak, and wine list still deliver a high-end feel, and the fireworks viewing is unmatched. On the other hand, a rushed service pace and an almost $1,000 tab for a family of six, as this reviewer pointed out, can leave guests wondering if they should spend that dining budget elsewhere.

Still, many longtime fans are finding their way back to California Grill, accepting the prix fixe system as part of the “new normal.” While it might never feel like the great value it once was, for those seeking a milestone celebration dinner, the combination of food, service, and that unbeatable view continues to win people back.

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Disney’s Hollywood Studios

For years, fans have debated whether Disney’s Hollywood Studios was losing its way. The park has seen major transformations, but along the way it felt like its original identity — celebrating the magic of filmmaking — had been pushed aside. Even with new lands like Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, some Disney adults felt like the park didn’t fully click together. Was it about thrill rides? Star Wars? Pixar? Many fans simply felt like the “Hollywood” aspect was fading fast.

That conversation shifted recently with the announcement of the return of the Magic of Disney Animation.

The news was met with excitement and even a sense of relief among longtime fans. For many, this feels like Hollywood Studios is finally reconnecting with its roots. The addition promises to bring a stronger focus on Disney’s animation legacy, which has always been a big part of the park’s original charm.

Fans have been vocal about their renewed optimism. The idea that the park is acknowledging its heritage instead of drifting further away from it has restored some faith in Hollywood Studios’ future. For Disney adults who once rolled their eyes at the park’s direction, this announcement was enough to get them talking — and planning their next visit with more excitement than they’ve had in years.

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At the end of the day, Disney World is always evolving, and sometimes that means our opinions evolve with it. A restaurant that felt like a letdown five years ago might surprise you today, and a park that seemed to have lost its identity can suddenly feel exciting again with the right announcement. Disney fans are nothing if not passionate, and it’s clear that when changes are made for the better, they are more than willing to give things a second chance.

Until then, make sure you stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for all the latest Disney news!

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What do you think — are these spots and experiences really back in your good graces, or are you still skeptical? Tell us in the comments.