is a hidden gem of Walt Disney World dining.
Located in the Swan Hotel in the Epcot resort area, Il Mulino is off the typical beaten path. But for those that find it, it’s often a meal to remember.
Il Mulino is an Italian restaurant modeled after the original and much-lauded Il Mulino in New York City’s Greenwich Village neighborhood. And you see a bit of that in the decor — but you taste a lot of it in the food. Menu items derive from the Abruzzo region of Italy and as such are comprised of an eclectic mix of ingredient from the mountains, the sea, and the pastures.
But origins aside, Il Mulino just serves really good food.
Atmosphere
It’s been several years since my last visit to Il Mulino, and in that time, a lot has changed at the Swan and Dolphin Hotels. New dining and drinking spots have opened, there’s a new executive chef overseeing the seventeen (17!!) dining establishments in the two resorts, and the Swan and Dolphin Classic continues to wow with new (and returning) tastes year after year.
The entrance to Il Mulino will see changes in the near future, but inside, the restaurant’s lounge and seating areas are the same industrial-meets-rustic design.
Seating varies from traditional four-tops to large pub-height tables. A grid of windows separates the diners from the open kitchen, giving the restaurant terrific energy.
Table settings are simple but warm.
Even lighting in the open kitchen is warm, letting diners know they’re not just strangers — they’re family.
And what better way to show a family member you care than to feed them?
Eats
Il Mulino features traditional Italian courses like Antipasti, Zuppe, Pasta, and more. I was anxious to eat some old favorites and try some new dishes.
We ordered the Insalata Caesar — a classic Caesar Salad. It’s not knocking anyone’s socks off, but if you like Caesar Salad, this one will satisfy.
Salad aside, I knew I couldn’t come to Il Mulino without ordering the Polpette al Forno: a trio of flavorful (seriously!) meatballs. These are herbacious, very slightly sweet, and fully delicious. Do NOT skip the meatballs.
Another favorite from my last visit, the Spaghetti Carbonara (like all the pastas here) is available in a half portion. This is a strategy I recommend for those with small appetites or those who want to try more than one dish. Either way, this buttery, salty Carbonara WAS INCREDIBLE. My husband and I were sharing it, and I’m pretty sure we were fighting the whole time for the larger portion! I’m dreaming about going back for more…so, um, get this on your bucket list.
The first new-to-me dish is Gnocchi Bolognese. These potato dumplings are soft and pillowy — just what you want from gnocchi. The sauce is rich, so while this is delicious, it’s quite heavy. Share this one or get a half order (or come ready to fill up!).
The sleeper hit of the night was the Pollo Fra Diavolo! This dish with chicken, sausage, vegetables, and spicy tomato sauce really packed some heat — and you know I love that! That said, if you are spice-averse, be warned: this is very spicy. That spice does not detract from the flavor at all, but it will keep you on your toes.
This is also a great option for those eating low-carb. While there are some carbs in the sauce and veggies, there’s no pasta here.
This was a delicious and multifaceted meal that did not disappoint at any turn. In fact, I’d order any of these dishes again — even the gnocchi, which I would plan to share or maybe halve and pair with a lighter appetizer or entree.
Nosh or Not?
Say buongiorno to Il Mulino if:
- You love Italian food and want to try arguably the best at Walt Disney World.
- You’re staying at the Swan & Dolphin and want a refined table service meal.
- You’ve got a mission to try all of the many Italian food options in the World.
Try something else if:
- Italian food just isn’t your jam.
- You don’t have time for a table service meal.
- You’re not planning to be in the area of the Swan & Dolphin and don’t want to travel for a meal.
Overall
Italian restaurants have easily doubled in number over the past year, with the bulk of them being conveniently located in Disney Springs. (We’re looking at you, Terralina Crafted Italian, Maria & Enzo’s, and Hideaway Tunnel Bar!) But if you can fit it into your schedule, a trip to Il Mulino for terrific Italian food is worth the effort. This is diverse, regional cuisine done exceptionally well.
bjm says
I was wondering if they require a certain dress code?
Kelly says
As for the dress code, we went right after the parks and the only thing we were told was no hats. This is the best Italian food I have had at disney. And, their pizza is my new favorite slightly edging out Via Napoli pizza because the last several times we ate at Via Napoli the pizzas seemed rushed and really doughy, soggy in the middle. This was also one of the very few restaurants where the wait staff encouraged sharing. One of our favorite dishes here is the calamari appetizer. The pizzas are really great, and the meatballs are by far some of the best.
Joe Calamita says
One thing to keep in mind is that they do not accept Disney dining or Disney Gift Cards at this restaurant. Ate there for the first time this year and it will now be on our must eat list going forward.
Sandra says
My family at at Il Mulino twice and we always recommend it for those who want a non-park tables service meal. While the dress code is supposed to follow the signatures (basically, business casual), they did not seem to be enforcing it. We all wore slacks and sweaters and felt appropriately dressed. My husband was a fan of their carbona, which he felt was just as good as his favorite at a now gone local restaurant. Loved the bread and little plate with sliced sausage and eggplant to go with it. The chicken parmesan is huge, covering the whole dinner plate. Even my big adult son could not finish it (they are happy to box up leftovers). The desserts were great, with the best tiramisu my husband ever had, Italian cheesecake and gelato, the last two serve with a spoon of zabaglione and fresh berries.
They are not pushy with the wine list but do have some good choices available. I had a peach bellini that was simply perfect, light and fragrant, so if you want a cocktail, their bar will not disappoint. Service was excellent on both visits and we were made to feel comfortable, even with our son, who has autism. While they don’t take the dining plan, this can be a good option, especially for adults looking for a good meal and drinks in a nice, relaxing atmosphere.
DFB Sarah says
BJM, see other posters’ comments! 🙂
Elizabeth says
Do they take Tables in Wonderland?
Mark says
Buttery carbonara? There is no butter in the classic recipe. Just cheese and egg yolks. Might have been the fat and olive oil from the ham preparation.
Eean says
AJ, I’m so glad you posted this review! I just booked my ADR for this summer, and we’ve never eaten here, but have heard good reviews! I always enjoy your feedback.
Dave says
While my wife and I were not able to get to Il Mulino this past week trip we did get in to try the Tunnel bar. We will get there next trip for sure before the 2 new hotels go up next to swan and dolphin. But I highly recommend Pizza Ponte and the Tunnel bar, did not get to the full Maria and Enzo’s yet. Tunnel bar had excellent service, amazing food incl meatball sliders that were amazing! The bread is true italian hard crust with extra virgin olive oil to dip. The drinks were great and its a cool place to visit.
DFB Sarah says
Elizabeth, Il Mulino is on Disney’s official list of TiW restaurants.
Kara says
I love the food here so much. My husband and I have been often.. even just to sit at the bar late night for a pizza or my favorite the pappardelle (with a meatball on the side of course!). They have a great wine list too. Never had an issue getting a table last minute or a seat in the bar area. And they take reservations on Open Table which is a plus.
Alan says
Sooo disappointed. Il Mulino has a great reputation so I figured why not?
I’ll tell you why not, mediocre food, high prices, harried service. That was my experience.