Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

23 April 2026 by Steve Bell Leave a Comment

A modern steakhouse with a nostalgic nod to Walt Disney World’s opening era.

If you’re looking for a great meal just steps from Magic Kingdom without the chaos of in-park dining, Steakhouse 71 delivers a perfect mix of convenience, comfort, and quality. Whether you’re starting your day with a hearty breakfast, taking a mid-day break, or winding down after fireworks.

Location

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Steakhouse 71 sits on the first floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, just off the main lobby. It’s an easy stroll from Magic Kingdom or one quick Monorail stop away—close enough to leave the park for lunch or dinner and then return with minimal time lost. It’s also a convenient meet-up spot if your crew is splitting time between park touring and a resort break.

Ambiance

Modern lines meet retro charm. The décor celebrates 1971—the year Walt Disney World opened—through vintage photography, mid-century textures, and subtle callbacks to early Magic Kingdom days.

The space feels polished but welcoming, with comfy booths, wood accents, and warm lighting that works for families and date nights alike.

Bar

Just off the main dining room, the Steakhouse 71 Lounge offers a more relaxed, walk-up-friendly option that’s perfect if you can’t snag a reservation—or simply want a quicker bite.

The lounge features the full bar menu plus a selection of popular dishes from the main restaurant, making it a favorite for last-minute meals or a break from the parks. You’ll find comfortable seating, the same mid-century-inspired design, and a slightly more casual vibe than the dining room.

It’s also one of the best spots on the Monorail loop to grab a drink, with a menu that includes:

• Classic cocktails and modern favorites
• A solid wine list
• Local and domestic beers

Many guests specifically head here for the Stack Burger at lunch or a late-night drink after Magic Kingdom fireworks—without the need for an ADR.

Menu

Steak is the headliner, but there’s a strong supporting cast across all three meals:

• Breakfast: Crowd-pleasers like Walt’s Prime Rib Hash, eggs benedict, and pastries—perfect fuel before rope drop.
• Lunch: Sandwiches and salads plus the beloved Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger for a hearty mid-day break from Magic Kingdom.
• Dinner: Classic steakhouse cuts (filet, ribeye, New York strip) with seafood, chicken, and a thoughtful plant-based option.

The Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger has become one of the most talked-about burgers at Walt Disney World—and for good reason. This isn’t your typical theme park burger. It features a blend of beef cuts, stacked high with American cheese, lemon aïoli, red onion, and house-made pickles on a perfectly toasted bun. The result is rich, flavorful, and just indulgent enough to feel like a true “treat meal” without being over the top.

The Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger

It’s consistently praised for its quality and value, especially compared to other table-service options—and it’s available in the lounge without a reservation, making it one of the best hidden gems for a Magic Kingdom-area lunch. In the main dining room, the  Stack Burger is available ion the lunch menu, and while not on the dinner menu, some have been successful ordering it for dinner.

Steve also highly recommends the Brisket Sandwich!

Brisket Sandwich

Sides & sweets: Think au gratin potatoes, mac & cheese, and the signature multi-layer Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake—a shareable showstopper.

Reservations

One of the many entryway Pictures

Advance Dining Reservations are highly recommended (especially for dinner) via the My Disney Experience app. Breakfast is typically easiest to book; dinner near park close can be competitive thanks to the quick walk back to Magic Kingdom for fireworks. Limited walk-ups may be available, especially at lunch, but expect waits during busy seasons.

History & Background

This ground-floor space has lived several Disney lives. For decades it housed the Contemporary’s massive arcade and quick-service complex—first the Fiesta Fun Center (1970s–2000s) and later the Food & Fun Center. In 2008, the area was reimagined as The Wave… of American Flavors (opened June 2008), a table-service spot focused on modern American cuisine. The Wave closed on July 16, 2021, and the restaurant reopened as Steakhouse 71 on October 1, 2021—Walt Disney World’s 50th anniversary—honoring the resort’s 1971 roots. (The resort’s quick-service moved upstairs to Contempo Café in November 2008.)

Wrap-Up / Final Thoughts

Inside the Stack Burger

With approachable prices for a resort steakhouse, a prime location steps from Magic Kingdom, and a tasty mix of nostalgia and modern comfort, Steakhouse 71 is a smart pick for families, date nights, and anyone craving a quality meal without leaving the Monorail loop for long.

Have you dined at Steakhouse 71? Share your favorite dish in the comments!

• Back to Basics Posts - A great place to start, offering basic topics!
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