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Din Tai Fung at Downtown Disney


When I found out that Din Tai Fung was opening at Downtown Disney in California, I was really looking forward to it. The new Downtown Disney location brings this amazing dining experience and combines Disney magic with incredible food, making it a must-visit spot for families, couples, and friends.  Din Tai Fung is known for its delicious dumplings and tasty dishes so while we were down in Disneyland for a quick visit, we couldn’t pass up the chance to visit. 
Din Tai Fung started in Taiwan and became popular because of its xiao long bao, or soup dumplings. These dumplings are thin and delicate, filled with tasty broth and tender meat. Eating one is more than just having a meal—it’s an experience.  They have an open kitchen where you can watch the chefs fold the dumplings by hand through a viewing window.

Upon arriving at the restaurant, you will need to go speak to the hostess. If you don’t have a reservation, they will give you a wait time and will text you when it’s time to be seated.  If you have a reservation, they will lead you into the restaurant. If you’re unsure what to order, the staff is always happy to provide recommendations or explain the dishes. Din Tai Fung uses an order sheet where you mark the dishes you’d like to try. This helps streamline the process and ensures your meal is customized to your preferences. You can order as you go, adding more items if needed.
We started our meal with the cucumber salad which was refreshing.  The cucumbers had bits of chili peppers, garlic and combined with sesame oil and the famous chili oil. Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings) is the dish that started it all. These handmade dumplings are crafted with precision, featuring a delicate wrapper that holds a savory broth and tender pork filling. Be sure to savor the burst of flavor with each bite.  Don’t forget to try it with the sauce!





We ordered the Black Pepper Beef Tenderloin which is Premium Angus beef seared alongside shimeji mushrooms, colorful bell peppers, and onions. This dish was delicious, and the beef was both tasty and tender.  

The Sautéed String Beans with Garlic is a simple yet delicious dish is a must-try.  The beans are cooked to perfection and infused with garlic flavor.

The Chicken Fried Noodles are a must-try. This dish combines fresh vegetables, tender strips of premium chicken, and green onion-infused oil.


Chicken Fried Rice is a simple yet flavorful addition to your meal. Tender chicken, delicately-scrambled egg, freshly-chopped green onion, and premium California-grown rice are tossed together with a touch of salt and seasoning. 


Chocolate Xiao Long Bao is a sweet twist on the classic dumpling, these dessert dumplings are filled with rich, melted chocolate—a delightful way to end your meal.  Try this with the Sea Salt Caramel.  You will not be disappointed.




Expert Tips for Your Visit

  1. Make a Reservation: Din Tai Fung is incredibly popular. Secure your spot by booking a reservation through the Disneyland app or website. This will lead you to the Yelp app where you can make reservations 30 days before your scheduled visit.

  2. Join the Waitlist:  If you are within 5 miles of the restaurant, you can join their waitlist via the Yelp app.  You can monitor your place in line and head to the restaurant and check in with the hostess when it’s time.

  3. Visit During Off-Peak Hours: To avoid long wait times, consider dining during non-peak hours. Early lunches and late dinners are ideal times to visit.

  4. Explore the District: After your meal, take some time to explore the rest of Downtown Disney. From unique shops to live entertainment, there’s plenty to see and do.

Din Tai Fung adds something truly special to Downtown Disney. With it's world-famous dumplings, flavorful dishes, and family-friendly atmosphere, this restaurant is a standout destination. Be sure to stop by during your next Downtown Disney adventure for a meal you won’t forget!

 Elisa Mendoza
 Elisa loves helping others create magical memories with their family and friends. You can email Elisa at elisa@kingdomkonsultant.com.


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