Nestled along the tranquil waters of Lake Buena Vista, Summer House on the Lake offers an escape from the usual Disney Springs hustle with its fresh, laid-back vibe and inviting ambiance. The restaurant’s bright and airy design feels like a breezy day at the beach—a perfect setting for a leisurely meal.
Ambiance
From the moment we walked through the doors, the relaxed yet stylish decor struck us. Summer House on the Lake lives up to its name, with a coastal theme that’s evident in every detail. The interior is a refreshing mix of whitewashed wood, large windows letting in plenty of natural light, and soft, beachy tones that make you feel like you’ve been transported to a chic seaside retreat.
The dining area is spacious yet cozy, with an open floor plan allowing plenty of room between tables, giving each party a sense of privacy while still feeling part of the larger atmosphere. The view of the lake from the restaurant is simply stunning, especially as the sun begins to set.
The vibe here is more relaxed than other dining options at Disney Springs, making it a great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to unwind after shopping or exploring the parks. The staff was welcoming and attentive without being overbearing, striking that perfect balance that makes you feel well taken care of without feeling rushed.
Menu
We started our meal with the Signature Guacamole, and after seeing the option, there was no question that we had to add the Dungeness Crab. I’m a firm believer that you can tell a lot about a restaurant by how they handle the basics, and guacamole is one of those dishes that, when done right, can be a showstopper.
This guacamole was just that. Creamy, perfectly seasoned, and bursting with the fresh flavors of avocado, lime, and cilantro, it was everything you want in a guac. The addition of the Dungeness Crab took it to another level, adding a subtle sweetness and richness that paired beautifully with the creamy avocado. The crab was fresh, generous, and perfectly complemented the rest of the dish, making each bite a delightful combination of flavors and textures. Served with crispy tortilla chips, this was the perfect way to kick off our meal.
For my wife’s main course, she opted for the Herbed Chicken Breast Paillard, and judging by the look of satisfaction on her face after the first bite, she made the right choice. The chicken breast was pounded thin, perfectly cooked, and topped with vibrant fresh herbs. The seasoning was spot-on, with the herbs adding a fragrant, earthy, light, and satisfying flavor.
The chicken was accompanied by arugula salad and Calabrian chili, which contrasted with the savory chicken. This dish was a refreshing change from many restaurants’ often heavy, sauce-laden chicken dishes. It truly let the quality of the ingredients shine, and it was clear that a lot of care had gone into its preparation.
I decided to go with the Crispy Fish Tacos, a dish that sounded deceptively simple but was very delicious. The tacos were a feast for the senses—light tempura battered golden fish fillets nestled in soft tortillas, topped with guacamole and a drizzle of chipotle crema that tied everything together.
The fish was perfectly cooked, with a crispy exterior that gave way to tender, flaky fish inside. The slaw added a nice crunch and a hint of acidity that cut through the richness of the fish, while the sauce added just the right amount of creaminess to bring all the flavors together. These tacos were the perfect blend of textures and flavors, making for a satisfying and refreshing dish.
Of course, we couldn’t pass up the opportunity to try one of their mocktails, and the Strawberry Fields looked like a good choice. This vibrant, fruity drink was a hit with both my wife and daughter. Made with strawberry, sage, and lavender, it was the perfect balance of sweet and tart, with the basil adding a nice herbal note that kept the drink from being overly sweet.
It was a refreshing complement to their meal, and my daughter loved that she could enjoy a “grown-up” drink as thoughtfully prepared as the cocktails on the menu. The Strawberry Fields was a standout, and it was clear that a lot of care had gone into crafting a drink that was not just a token offering for non-drinkers but a delicious and well-balanced beverage in its own right.
Overall Experience
Our lunch at Summer House on the Lake was everything we had hoped it would be—relaxed, enjoyable, and full of great food. The restaurant’s ambiance set the tone for a leisurely meal, and the menu delivered on its promise of fresh, flavorful dishes that highlight quality ingredients and thoughtful preparation.
What impressed me most about Summer House on the Lake was the consistency of quality across the board. Everything came together, from the ambiance to the service to the food, to create a special experience without being pretentious. It’s where you can unwind, enjoy great food, and make lasting memories with the people you care about.
Final Thoughts
If you find yourself at Disney Springs and are looking for a dining experience that offers more than just a meal, I highly recommend giving Summer House on the Lake a try. Whether you’re in the mood for a light bite, a refreshing drink, or a full meal, you’re sure to find something that hits the spot. It’s a place that truly captures the essence of summer, with a menu that celebrates fresh, vibrant flavors and an ambiance that invites you to relax and enjoy the moment. It was the perfect way to cap off our day, and we left with full bellies, happy hearts, and a new favorite spot to return to on our next visit.
Summer House on the Lake is located in Disney Springs at 1498 E Buena Vista Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830, and their phone number is (407) 598-8645. In addition to bus transportation from Walt Disney World properties, on-site garage parking is available.
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