Chef Michael Mina brings his celebrated Bourbon Steak experience to Orlando. A refined new steakhouse with stunning design, elevated flavors, and signature hospitality in the heart of Walt Disney World.
- Bourbon Steak Orlando is now open at the Walt Disney World Dolphin, bringing Chef Michael Mina’s award-winning steakhouse to the heart of Disney.
- The space, formerly home to Shula’s Steakhouse, has been fully redesigned, with the entire Shula’s staff retained for a seamless transition.
- Signature dishes like Miso Broiled Sea Bass and tableside Tomahawk Ribeye are paired with luxurious sides, inventive cocktails, and indulgent desserts.
First Look: Romantic Dining at Bourbon Steak in Disney’s Dolphin Hotel
This week, I had the opportunity to attend the ribbon cutting for Bourbon Steak Orlando, the newest restaurant to join the impressive lineup at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. And while I only sampled a few bites during the media preview, I can already tell this is going to be a must-visit destination for special occasions, date nights, and steakhouse fans alike.
What to Expect at Bourbon Steak Orlando
What immediately stood out to me was the transformation of the space. Longtime Walt Disney World guests will remember this location as the former home of Shula’s Steakhouse. The space has been completely reimagined, blending the classic warmth of a traditional steakhouse with contemporary style and energy. As someone who has loved the Swan and Dolphin for years (and even had the pleasure of working there) it’s incredible to see how this resort continues to evolve and remain relevant in the very heart of Walt Disney World.
Another thoughtful touch: every member of the Shula’s staff was retained and transitioned into the new Bourbon Steak team. That continuity and care are rare in a restaurant transition and speaks volumes about the culture at this resort.
“I watched one of our servers who’s been at this hotel for 35 years walk into this completely redesigned space—and she was nervous. I reminded her, same house, new couch. We’re just having a different conversation with our same guest.”
– Greg Sherman, Director of Food & Beverage, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
A New Chapter for Chef Michael Mina
This is the first Orlando location for Chef Michael Mina’s Bourbon Steak brand, part of the celebrated MINA Group portfolio. Chef Mina, a James Beard Award-winning restaurateur, is known for elevating classic steakhouse fare with innovative touches and global influences. His restaurants span the country, and Bourbon Steak Orlando brings that same attention to detail and culinary creativity.
During the event, I sampled a few highlights from the menu. The Miso Broiled Sea Bass was tender and full of umami, paired with delicate baby squash and shishito peppers. It was elegant, satisfying, and made me eager to come back for more. For dessert, I tried a decadent chocolate creation that was rich, layered, and truly indulgent—an ideal ending to a luxurious meal.
“The magnitude of this project—the collaboration between Disney, the Swan and Dolphin team, and Tishman—has been incredible. There’s been more support here than I’ve experienced on most restaurant openings, and that’s made a huge difference.”
– Michael Mina
The Menu
The full menu at Bourbon Steak Orlando offers a mix of timeless steakhouse staples and inventive seafood and appetizers. Every table starts with the restaurant’s signature Duck Fat Fries trio, a craveable replacement for traditional bread service.
Standout appetizers include:
- Tuna Tartare, prepared tableside with quail egg, mint, pine nuts, and sesame oil—a dish Chef Mina introduced in 1991 and still a signature.
- Black Truffle Agnolotti with burrata filling and truffle butter.
- Bacon-Wrapped Scallops with cherry, turnip, and Marcona almond emulsion.
Steak lovers will appreciate a range of premium cuts including a 10 oz Filet Mignon, 45-Day Dry-Aged Cowboy Ribeye, and a dramatic 40 oz Hay-Smoked Tomahawk Ribeye carved tableside. The Wagyu offerings are equally impressive, featuring Miyazaki A5 Strip Steak and Snake River Farms Rib Cap.
Seafood options include the aforementioned Miso Sea Bass and the showstopping Maine Lobster Pot Pie, served tableside in a copper pot with brandy cream sauce and market vegetables.
Don’t skip the sides—options like Black Truffle Mac & Cheese, Jalapeño Creamed Corn, and Crispy Shallot-Topped Spinach are built for sharing.
“We’re not just creating another hotel restaurant. We’re setting a new standard. We want to be the steakhouse people talk about—not just at Disney, but across all of Orlando.”
– Greg Sherman, Director of Food & Beverage, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin
Decadent Desserts
Desserts at Bourbon Steak Orlando are anything but an afterthought. Expect refined spins on classics, like:
- Key Lime Napoleon with layers of sugared puff pastry and citrus cream.
- Brûléed Basque Cheesecake, topped with Florida strawberries.
- Warm Beignets served with a trio of dipping sauces, including Macallan butterscotch pudding and milk chocolate pot de crème.
- The Chocolate Candy Bar—a chewy, crunchy, peanut butter and caramel masterpiece.
- And for something playful, the “On the Rocks” Root Beer Float made with sassafras ice cream and walnut chip cookies.
Elevated Drinks
Bourbon Steak also takes its drinks seriously. The wine list is curated from top regions around the world, while the cocktail menu combines classics with inventive flair. Signature sips include the Famous Martini with Grey Goose and Bombay Sapphire, and the citrusy Fruit Ninja made with tequila, yuzu, grapefruit, and honey peach bitters.
Non-alcoholic cocktails are just as fun, look out for the Fairweather Friend with almond orgeat and cucumber seltzer.
Final Thoughts
While I only sampled a few dishes at the preview, I’m already planning to return with my husband for the full experience. The food, service, and setting all signal that this is more than just another hotel restaurant. Bourbon Steak is a destination that fits into the legendary pedigree of the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort.
With the official grand opening set for July 26, Bourbon Steak Orlando is now soft open for dinner nightly from 5–11 PM. Reservations are available via OpenTable or at swandolphin.com/bourbonsteak.
If you’re looking for a romantic night out or a memorable meal during your Disney vacation, this new addition to the Swan and Dolphin deserves a spot on your list.
