This place really wins on its atmosphere! Sci Fi Dine In is a unique and immersive dining experience that takes guests on a nostalgic journey back to the heyday of the drive-in movie era. Stepping into the restaurant is like entering a time capsule, transporting diners to a 1950s-style drive-in theater complete with vintage cars, starlit night skies, and a giant screen showcasing classic sci-fi movie clips. This one-of-a-kind dining destination combines delicious American fare with the magic of the silver screen, making it a must-visit for Disney guests seeking a dose of retro charm.
The menu here offers classic American food with a heavy focus on burgers (which we think are some of the best on Disney property). In the past, this place has gotten a bad rap for its service and food quality. Nowadays after a menu change and revisit we recommend the Sci-Fi Dine In at Hollywood Studios.
Sci-Fi Dine In Quick Breakdown
- Service: Table-Service
- Type of Food: Burgers, Chicken, Vegetarian-Friendly, Allergy Options
- Price: $$
- Location: Hollywood Studios
- Disney Dining Plan: Yes, 1 Credit
- Discounts: Annual Passholder, DVC
- Features: Reservations, Alcohol
- Good For: Kids, Unique Atmosphere
- Menu: Official Disney Dinner Menu
A Tour Around Sci-Fi Dine In
This dining spot at Hollywood Studios is located just next to Baseline Tap House and is right on the way to Batuu if you want to grab a bite not far from Rise of the Resistance. Just outside the restaurant, you have this perfect picture opportunity!
As soon as you enter inside of the Sci-Fi Dine In you will find the check in desk. Of course, don’t forget nowadays you can always check in when you are close to the restaurant via your the Disney Experience App.
The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is designed to resemble an outdoor drive-in movie theater, with tables placed inside vintage cars facing a large projection screen. The dimly lit restaurant creates an intimate and cinematic atmosphere, while classic sci-fi movie clips and retro advertisements play on the big screen. Diners are surrounded by twinkling stars overhead, immersing them in the ambiance of a warm summer night at the drive-in.
Ta da! It really is just like the drive in movie theaters that you really just can’t find in very many spots anymore. Up on the screen you can enjoy clips from old sci-fi movies!
Each car-themed booth seats up to six guests and offers a front-row view of the projection screen. The retro cars feature detailed interior designs, such as tail fins and chrome accents, adding to the authenticity of the experience. Large groups can be accommodated in the “convertible” tables that offer open seating reminiscent of classic convertibles at a drive-in.
While savoring their meals, you will be treated to a continuous loop of sci-fi movie clips, trailers, and vintage advertisements projected on the large screen. The ever-changing selection of film snippets includes iconic scenes from classic sci-fi movies, adding to the immersive experience and sparking conversations among guests.
Sci-Fi Dine In Dishes
The menu at the Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant features classic American comfort foods with a twist. Guests can indulge in burgers, sandwiches, ribs, salads, and milkshakes, all served with a touch of nostalgia. The following are a few of the dishes we have tried from their menu. You will have to excuse the pictures as the lighting in this restaurant is very dim.
Oreo Cookie Milkshake
Of course, we had to start off our meal with a milkshakes! We heard great things about them and we were not disappointed!! They even split one milkshake into separate glasses so we could share (plus get more whip cream).
Classic American Burger
Classic American Burger, a Signature Blend of Beef served on a Brioche Bun with Caramelized Onions, American Cheese, Bacon, Lettuce, and Gourmet Tomato. After many recommendations, I opted to go with the burger here! I was pleasantly surprised and it was a great price when you compare to quick-service burgers hitting over the $15 mark!
Pork on Pork Burger
Grilled House-made Pork Patty topped with Roasted Pork Belly, White Sharp Cheddar, Caramelized Onions, Cabbage Slaw, and a House-made Carolina Mustard Sauce.
Pan-Seared Chicken Pasta
Chicken Pasta, Penne Pasta tossed in a Four-Cheese Sauce topped with Asparagus, Fried Okra, Red Bell Pepper, and Tomato served with Garlic Bread and Parmesan. Also available with Whole-Wheat Penne Pasta. My husband really enjoyed this dish! It was a bit too spicy for my taste but I am a weakling in that department. The portion was very generous it ended up being so large we even had leftovers to bring home!
Disney Parking Violation
Be sure to take a look at check when it comes, there is a surprise waiting for you!
Easter Eggs at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater
Movie Posters
Adorning the walls of the restaurant are classic sci-fi movie posters, many of which have been modified to include references to Disney characters, attractions, or Imagineers. Keep an eye out for posters with hidden Mickey Mouse symbols or cleverly reimagined titles.
License Plates
As you walk through the restaurant, you’ll notice a collection of vintage license plates hanging on the walls. These license plates often include references to classic sci-fi movies, Disney characters, and nods to Disney Imagineers and Imagineer-related terms.
DJ Rex
Inside the framing of the screen walls, you can spot sketches of our former Star Tours pilot DJ Rex.
The Rocketeer
Look up into the rafters and you will spot the helmet from Disney’s movie The Rocketeer.
Sci-Fi Dine-In Recommendation
Sci-Fi is fun and provides an atmosphere that you’re not going to find anywhere outside Walt Disney World. Really this is one of those shining examples of the magic of Walt Disney World. If you were on the fence about dining here, don’t be and just go ahead and book it. Speaking of reservations this one can be a tricky one to find, so be sure to make this one ASAP!
If you are interested in booking a reservation for Sci-Fi Dine In you can do so through My Disney Experience.
Want more dining tips? Check out our Best Disney World Restaurants recommendations along with Worst Disney Dining Sit Down Restaurants. If you are visiting with young ones read our Best Places to Eat with Kids at Disney World.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
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PeggyP
Monday 19th of March 2018
We went to Sci-Fi Dinner Theater in October of 2017. I think this is one of those "must try" restaurants, but not one that's worth a second time at. The service was horrible. We waited forever to have our orders taken and again forever to get our check when we were finished.And the food's not really that great. I got a burger and wasn't impressed. It was just meh. Definitely not worth the cost. I've had better burgers at Five Guys.
Jax
Monday 23rd of October 2017
We went in September, just split some apps and got kids meals and we were VERY disappointed. Kids meals were inedible, apps were just ok and portion size was small.
PeggyP
Monday 19th of March 2018
Same here. We were there in October and not impressed at all. Food wasn't that great and the service was beyond bad.
Patty Staricha
Monday 23rd of October 2017
This sounds like experiences I have had in the past here. I hope you were able to speak to a manager they typically do a great job at making things right.