Living in Orlando means I almost never plan a park day. It's usually more of a "Hey, got nothing going on today, let's go!" situation. Which also means I almost never have advance dining reservations.
This visit was no different. We were hungry, we were in World Showcase, and I pulled up the app to see what was actually available. Nine Dragons in the China Pavilion had a table, so that's where we ended up.
So, is it worth a spot on your itinerary? Let's talk about it.
First Up: The Lychee Martini (We Need to Talk)
I'll start with the drink, because I have opinions.
My Lychee Martini showed up on the rocks. Why? Why would you do that?
Ice waters down the drink as it sits, so by the halfway point you're sipping something that's lost its punch and its balance. And let's be honest: a martini on the rocks isn't really a martini. It should be shaken or stirred, then served up in a proper glass, nice and cold, the way it was meant to be.
The garnish was cute, a peeled lychee and a sprig of mint on a red pick. But the presentation missed the mark for me. If you order one, ask for it served up and see if they'll do it.
The Food Came Out FAST (and I Was Nervous)
Our food arrived within about 5 to 10 minutes of ordering.
My first thought? Did you actually cook this to order, or was it already made?
I'll be honest, I was a little scared. Fast food in a sit-down restaurant can mean a lot of things, and none of them are great.
But here's the good news: the food tasted fresh. The shrimp in the Kung Pao Duo wasn't rubbery at all, which is usually the giveaway that something's been sitting around. It had good flavor, plenty of shrimp, tender chicken, and the peanuts and scallions gave it a nice bite.
If you're traveling with kids or you're on a tight park schedule, that speed is a real perk.
The Star of the Show: Braised Prawns
Okay, can we talk about these prawns?
The Braised Prawns were the best thing at the table. I actually wish I had ordered them for myself instead of just stealing bites, my friend was the smart one.
Good-sized prawns, coated in a creamy glaze, topped with pistachio, and served over shredded cabbage with a side of white rice. There was also a slight horseradish-y kick in the sauce. It might have been wasabi, I honestly couldn't tell you, but it worked beautifully against the creaminess.
If you only order one thing at Nine Dragons, make it this.
What About the Prices?
For a sit-down restaurant inside Disney World, the prices were good. I didn't walk out feeling like I'd paid a "Disney tax" on top of a Disney tax. For table service in World Showcase, I thought it was fair.
Would I Go Back?
Yes, with a caveat.
If it's another last-minute day and Nine Dragons is the only thing available, I'd happily sit down again (and order my own Braised Prawns).
Was it bad? Not at all. But there are so many other great places to eat in EPCOT, and I wouldn't build a day around this one. Think of it as a solid fallback, not a first-choice destination.
The Quick Take
Best dish: Braised Prawns
Also good: Kung Pao Duo (fresh, not rubbery shrimp)
Skip or tweak: The Lychee Martini on the rocks. Ask for it up.
Speed: Very fast, about 5 to 10 minutes
Prices: Good for Disney World
Best for: Last-minute meals, families who need quick service, anyone who can't snag a reservation elsewhere
Want Help Planning Your Dining So You're Not Winging It?
I get to wing it because I live here. You probably don't, and you shouldn't have to spend your precious vacation days refreshing the app hoping a table opens up.
That's where I come in. I plan Disney trips for a living, including dining reservations that actually fit your schedule, your budget, and your crew. And it costs you nothing extra.
Adventure Made Easy. ✈️