The story
Summer House On The Lake sits on the West Side of Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, bringing the same bright, airy spirit that has made the Summer House concept a fixture in Chicago, North Bethesda, and Las Vegas. Part of the Lettuce Entertain You family of restaurants, it carries a clear identity: California-inspired American cooking built on simple ingredients sourced through local grower partnerships and sustainable products, paired with a drinks program serious enough to earn a Wine Spectator Award of Excellence in 2024.
Chef Ben Goodnick leads the menu across the Summer House group, and the Californian sensibility runs through every section. Brunch brings dishes like Avocado Toast with scallion mascarpone and poached eggs on house country bread, Huevos Rancheros built on an oaxaca cheese quesadilla with ranchero sauce and sunny-side eggs, and a Short Rib Hash crowned with caramelized onions. Salads lean into West Coast produce logic — the Wilshire Blvd Cobb layers avocado, egg, corn, cucumber, tomato, bacon, and blue cheese, while the Costa Mesa combines queso fresco, corn, pico de gallo, avocado, and quinoa with a chipotle crema. Pizzas are made from scratch, ranging from a Classic Margherita with fresh mozzarella to a Shaved Mushroom with gruyère, truffle, and parmesan cream.
The kitchen is genuinely accommodating: nearly every item can be prepared gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options are clearly marked, and the kids' menu is made from scratch with natural ingredients — including a pizza-making counter where younger guests can build their own pie.
The signature Rosé Cart is a defining detail — rosé is poured all day, including the house Summer House Rosé from Bonanno in California. The cocktail list spans tequila-forward drinks like the Spiked Picnic with watermelon and ginger beer, a frozen Frozé blending rosé with Aperol and whipped strawberry, and a thoughtful zero-proof section with options like Post Water-Melone and Strawberry Fields. The wine program, recognized by Wine Spectator, covers everything from Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon to Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, with wines available by the glass, carafe, or bottle.
The space is designed to feel bright and open regardless of the season — the kind of place that works equally well for a weekend brunch with family, a date night dinner, or a private party. Outdoor seating, valet parking, and full event and catering services round out the offer, making it one of the more versatile dining destinations along the Disney Springs waterfront.
Recognition
Ambience
Location