I've been going to Walt Disney World since I was 18 months old — that's over 50 years of visits — and since moving to Florida more than 15 years ago, I'm in the parks several times a week. I've seen a lot change over the decades, but Coral Reef at Epcot is one of those places that still manages to impress me.
The atmosphere here is genuinely beautiful. The centerpiece is a massive aquarium that takes up an entire wall of the restaurant, and if you can snag a table right next to it, do it. That's the seat you want. When I visited with a large party of 10, we had to be split into two tables to make that happen, but it was absolutely worth it.
The kids in our group were completely captivated watching the fish swim by — especially the stingrays. It's one of those rare restaurant experiences where the little ones are entertained without anyone having to try very hard.
On the food side, I went with the surf and turf, and I'll be honest — it was really good. My one complaint is that the portions were on the small side, so keep that in mind when you're ordering.
Overall I'd give Coral Reef a solid 4 out of 5. The setting is hard to beat anywhere on Disney property, and the food delivers. Just don't show up starving and expect a massive plate.
