Disney Springs recently opened the new Frontera Cocina restaurant by Chef Rick Bayless. While there are plenty of Kissimmee restaurants serving Mexican cuisine, this new dining option in Lake Buena Vista offers gourmet Mexican fare. There are traditional items on the menu, but like the new surroundings in the beautiful new Town Center in Disney Springs, be prepared for a contemporary experience.

Frontera Cocina Interior

The restaurant itself has a very contemporary and lively look. There are different sections within this new Lake Buena Vista restaurant. The section with the open kitchen is framed with black and festive warm colors, while the bistro/bar area is highlighted with brighter blue, white and cool gray colors. There are three main dining areas and additional seating outside. Various shades of back-lit tequila bottles line the walls and add to an overall contemporary look.

Interior Frontera Cocina

Chef Rick Bayless has been perfecting his Frontera franchise since 1981 when he opened a restaurant in Chicago. Since then he has opened several award-winning restaurants under various brands. He is best known for winning the “Top Chef Masters” award on television. Moving on to host his own show “Mexico – One Plate at a Time,” Bayless offers unmatched insight into Mexican cuisine.

Frontera Cocina Menu

The menu at Frontera Concina features many dishes that will appeal to many diners. However, there are several dishes that will surprise you. Along with Carne Asada, Carnitas and other traditional Mexican dishes, there are dishes listed on the menu that are not so traditional. How about some Shrimp Mojo de Ajo? Queso Añejo Mashed Potatoes? These are the dishes you’d expect from a gourmet restaurant. Far from ordinary.

For the heat-loving diner, as in spicy, there are dishes that offer a good kick. Habanera peppers are used to provide an authentic experience which is missing in many Kissimmee restaurants that feature Mexican cuisine. If you like it hot, try the Atomic Guacamole. To cool your taste buds, save room for dessert. These dishes too are out of the ordinary.

Exterior photo of Frontera CocinaFast Food Option

If you want a quick sample, try the walk-up window. You can order tacos, chips with guacamole and a delicious margarita or cerveza. The small outdoor seating in the patio area is nice and will be a great place for outdoor dining once the summer temperatures subside.

This new Buena Vista restaurant is open Sunday – Wednesday from 11am to 10pm; Thursday – Saturday from 11am to 10:45pm and the bar is open Sunday – Wednesday from 11am to 11pm and Thursday – Saturday from 11am to 1am. Reservations are not mandatory, however, you can make them through the Disney reservation system. For information about Frontera Cocina call 407-560-9197.

If you don’t care for Mexican cuisine, but love Italian and American food (and loads of it), make reservations to visit Capone’s Dinner & Show. It is just a short drive from Lake Buena Vista’s Disney Springs and offers a hilarious show.  This Kissimmee restaurant attraction features a delicious buffet with drinks included. Call 407-397-2378 for more information and to reserve your seats at half price.

Last Updated on January 19, 2018