Southern comfort food with a Florida twist—served by family-friendly favorite Chef Art Smith.
Let me tell you about my family’s favorite dining location in Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs. Believe me, you will not be sorry if you try Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming!
Location
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ sits in The Landing area of Disney Springs, right along the scenic springs. You’ll spot the welcoming porch-style entrance instantly—handy if you’re strolling from the Lime Garage or the Disney Resort bus drop-off. This spot is a consistent favorite for our family and a must-do meal stop every visit.
Ambiance
Walking into Homecomin’ feels like coming to a Southern farmhouse—reclaimed wood, warm lighting, cozy porches, and an open kitchen humming with energy.
There is a large indoor bar and the very popular outdoor “Shine Bar” patio is especially special for enjoying a cool drink on a warm Florida evening, with a soft breeze and the gently bubbling springs as the backdrop.
Menu
This place serves up pure Southern comfort with Florida flair. Our table favorites include:
- Country Fried Steak – Perfectly seasoned, battered then fried and topped with sawmill gravy.
- Fried Chicken — crispy, juicy, and everything comfort food should be.
- The very popular Kitchen Plate, a sampling of your choice of 3 entrees
- Church Lady Deviled Eggs, hushpuppies, mac & cheese, cheddar drop biscuits — great to share.
- Sweet finishes — like the legendary Shine Cake soaked in moonshine and the ever-delicious Hummingbird Cake.
- Drinks — craft cocktails, local beers, and standout sips like the Florida Crush (my personal favorite), a refreshing, fruity, and perfect-for-Disney-day-release libation.
Chef Art Smith – Why He Matters
Chef Art Smith isn’t just any celebrity chef—he’s Florida-born and deeply connected to the state’s culinary roots. Before becoming Oprah’s personal chef, he served as executive chef in the Florida Governor’s Mansion under Bob Graham and Jeb Bush. His menu at Homecomin’ reflects local Florida agriculture, family traditions, and his philosophy that food brings people together.
Reservations Intel
The Famous Florida Crush
This spot books fast—especially for dinner and weekends. Reservations open 60 days out and tend to fill quickly. If you can’t get a table right away, check for openings regularly, or grab a seat at the Shine Bar patio as a fallback.
See my Ultimate Guide to Disney Dining Reservations
Wrap-Up / Final Thoughts
Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ is more than a meal; it’s a homecoming experience. With soulful food, a warm, welcoming vibe, and that unbeatable Florida Crush in hand, it’s no surprise it’s our family’s go-to dinner spot in Disney Springs every trip.
Have you tried Homecomin’? What’s your favorite dish or drink? Share below—we’re always eager to compare comfort-food notes!
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This MDT Post By: Steve Bell Steve is the Military Disney Tips Founder. He is a retired U.S. Military Member who's been touring the Disney Parks since 1971! He has been writing about Disney for the US Military Community here for 18 years. Steve's mission is to help military families with their Disney vacations in every way possible. See Steve and His Family's Content |
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