Eating is one of life’s little pleasures, especially when traveling. But unfortunately, a good meal doesn’t always come cheap, particularly when you’re on a Disney vacation. Not to mention, dining can often take a lot of time. And when you have an already full day of rides, character meet-and-greets, shows and parades (and don’t forget the fireworks finale!), a long and expensive meal can be a tough sell.
That’s where quick-service dining at Disney World comes in. Best of all, not only can you find these fast-food outlets throughout Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs (and at the Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon water parks, too), but each of the hotels at Disney World also offers at least one quick-service restaurant to choose from.
Read on as we go over everything you need to know. We hope you brought your appetite!
What Is Quick-Service Dining at Walt Disney World?
Ok, first things first. Just what does quick-service dining at Disney World mean? Basically, consider it Disney’s take on fast food. In general, you either place your order in person with a cast member or through the mobile ordering function on the My Disney Experience app. Then, simply wait for your food to be ready, pick it up at the counter and take it to an empty table or back to your hotel room to chow down.
Sure, it may not be the fanciest, tastiest or most interesting meal you can have at the Walt Disney World Resort. (That’s what the signature restaurants, character dining and other can’t-miss table-service restaurants are for.) However, whether you’re in the theme parks or at one of the Disney resort hotels, quick-service meals are cheap, cheerful and sure to satisfy all sorts of palates—a huge plus for an already expensive and busy Disney World vacation.
Can you buy alcoholic drinks from quick-service restaurants at Disney World hotels?
Yup! As magical as a trip to Walt Disney World can be, it can also be downright stressful. Luckily for all adults out there, there are plenty of places you can buy a stiff drink to help you relax, including the many quick-service restaurants at Disney World resorts.
Most hotel counter-service outlets offer a selection of alcoholic beverages, such as beer, wine, hard seltzer or cider, and even cocktails. Of course, if you’re looking for a more extensive drink selection, you can also try one of the many hotel lounges or pool bars.
Are gluten-free or other allergy-friendly dishes available at counter-service restaurants?
They sure are! Disney Parks and Resorts excel at many things, and that includes accommodating dietary needs. The same goes for quick-service dining outlets at Walt Disney World hotels. That said, while you will find a decent array of allergy-friendly eats at resort fast-food restaurants, the selection won’t be as extensive as what you’d find at a table-service spot.
Still, every quick-service restaurant offers at least a few options to accommodate a variety of food allergies, including gluten, dairy, shellfish, soy and nuts. Just keep in mind that these allergy-friendly options are generally offered through the substitution or omission of ingredients. So, if you’re hoping for custom, off-menu dishes, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Whatever your dietary restrictions, be sure to let a cast member know when placing your order to help avoid any cross-contamination. Additionally, since not all quick-service locations have a designated fryer for food allergies, you’ll also want to double-check when placing your order if you want to get something fried.
Can you go to a Disney resort for quick-serving dining even if you aren’t a hotel guest?
Absolutely! Whether you’re doing some resort hopping or simply looking for a little peace and quiet away from the craziness of the theme parks, a fast-food meal from one of the quick-service restaurants at Disney World hotels can be an enjoyable and affordable option.
However, keep in mind that parking is often restricted to resort guests only, especially at hotels that are located close to the parks. So, be prepared to use a different transportation method—such as the Monorail, Disney Skyliner, water taxi or bus system—or have an alternative dining option in mind.
Best Quick-Service Dining at Walt Disney World Resorts
There are tons of Walt Disney World hotel restaurants to choose from, including around 30 different counter-service eateries. Naturally, not all of them are worth your precious time, money or space in your stomach. Here are our top 13 picks for the best quick-service restaurants at Disney World hotels. Let’s dig in!
BoardWalk Deli at Disney’s BoardWalk
We don’t know about you, but for us, nothing satisfies quite like a sandwich. They’re hearty, portable, stuffed with all kinds of fillings and, best of all, affordable. Located at Disney’s BoardWalk just a short walk from the BoardWalk Inn, the recently opened BoardWalk Deli cooks up a tempting selection of breakfast sammies, lunch and dinner-worthy sandwiches, fresh salads and other deli classics.
Type of Cuisine: American, Bakery
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Capt. Cook’s at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
While Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is known for its popular family-style restaurant, ‘Ohana, as well as the transporting tiki bar, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, this romantic Magic Kingdom Area hotel also boasts a couple of seriously tasty counter-service joints (we’ll get to the other one in a bit).
At Capt. Cook’s, diners can tuck into a taste of the tropics from morning to night, from the fully loaded and ever-popular Tonga Toast to Asian-inspired dishes like Thai Coconut Meatballs and Pan-Asian Noodles and Vegetables. American-style favorites such as burgers, chicken nuggets and chili are also available.
Type of Cuisine: American, Seafood
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Craving some island flavors during your trip to Walt Disney World? Then make your way over to Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. This fast-casual restaurant dishes up an extensive menu of both Latin-inspired and American-style options, all set in a lively, market-like setting. Start your day with fresh and flavorful Avocado Toast or some fruity pancakes.
Or, refuel after a day of adventures on a burger, pizza or vibrant bites like Jamaican-style chicken, a classic Hot Cuban Sandwich, Fish Tacos or a Fried Yucca Bowl with all the fixings. For even more Latin flair, the nearby Spyglass Grill is another great option.
Type of Cuisine: American, Latin
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
What could be cooler than noshing on something yummy while watching the Magic Kingdom Monorail cruise past? If that sounds like it’s right up your alley, then head over to Contempo Café at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This counter-service restaurant in the atrium of the iconic A-frame hotel serves up kid-friendly favorites like Mickey Waffles for breakfast and burgers, sandwiches and salads for lunch and dinner. To top it all off, it’s just a short walk, boat ride or Monorail stop away from Magic Kingdom Park. Talk about convenience!
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
El Mercado de Coronado at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
There’s something for everyone at El Mercado de Coronado at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. As a convention hotel, this moderate resort boasts a tantalizing number of dining options, including a waterfront lounge, a Spanish-style steakhouse with rooftop views and more.
However, for a quick and easy bite to eat for more adventurous eaters and picky palates alike, nothing tops this counter-service eatery. Grab a breakfast sandwich or Mickey Waffles in the morning. Then, try a burger, flatbread, pasta or a flavorful, Mexican-inspired entrée for lunch or dinner. Hanging out by the Lost City of Cibola Pool? Siestas Cantina is a great alternative.
Type of Cuisine: American, Mexican
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: No
Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
If it’s a more genteel quick-service meal you’re after, make a stop at Gasparilla Island Grill at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. With its casually elegant dining room, outdoor seating overlooking the marina and an array of slightly elevated fast-food favorites like flatbreads, sandwiches, burgers, salads and even House-Made Macaroni & Cheese, there’s something here to satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. If that doesn’t sound magical enough, you can even see Cinderella Castle rising in the distance.
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Snacks, Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
No snack at Disney World is more iconic (or delicious!) than cool, creamy DOLE Whip—except for maybe those massive turkey legs—and Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort whips up a whole bunch of the sweet stuff. From cups to floats and even one spiked with rum, this icy treat can’t be beat. For an especially enchanting dessert, take your DOLE Whip of choice to the Polynesian’s beach and watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the shore.
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Snacks
Mobile Order Available: No
Primo Piatto at Disney’s Riviera Resort
Another Disney World hotel with truly decadent dining options is Disney’s Riviera Resort. After all, you can’t stay at a resort themed after the Italian and French Riviera and not enjoy some delicious cuisine. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a bunch of money to enjoy a meal worthy of a European holiday.
Located near the resort’s pool area, Primo Piatto offers a wide range of affordable American dishes with European flair. Indulge in Blueberry-Lemon Pancakes, ‘French Toast’ Bread Pudding or a Lorraine-style Frittata in the morning, then round out your day with hearth-baked pizzas, a Croque Monsieur Sandwich or a Niçoise Salad topped with rare seared tuna. Bon appétit!
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Head on down the bayou for some Southern Louisiana-style fare at Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. Rich in soul food and Southern charm, this is one of the best food court-type quick-service restaurants at the Disney World hotels.
Savor the flavors of Louisiana with a Pimento BLT or Jambalaya, or stick with a classic slice of pizza or some Buttermilk Chicken. The choice is up to you. If it’s a burger you’re craving, be sure to try the Bayou Amber Ale Burger, which comes crowned with spicy shredded prime rib and Amber Ale cheese sauce.
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Roaring Fork at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
If there’s one thing we can devour again and again, it’s BBQ, and you’ll find some very tasty options at Roaring Fork in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Whether you’re in the mood for Barbecued Brisket and Burnt Ends or a 10-Hour Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich, you’re sure to leave full and happy.
But, that’s not all. You can also enjoy stick-to-your-ribs dishes like Country-style Baked Meatloaf, burgers and chicken strips, or go for a light and fresh salad. And whatever you do, be sure to save some room for one of their delicious desserts. Try the Campfire Cupcake or Magic Cookie Bar, and thank us later.
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Let the good times roll at Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. Designed to look like a warehouse filled with Mardi Gras floats, this food court just off the hotel’s main lobby offers up filling, New Orleans-style fare and a lively atmosphere in equal measure.
Fill your belly with some cozy Gumbo, a generous serving of Shrimp and Grits or the Baton Rouge Burger topped with fried green tomatoes, bacon and pimento cheese. American classics like chicken strips, pizza and pasta are also available.
Type of Cuisine: American, Cajun/Creole
Meals Available: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: Yes
Scat Cat’s Club – Café at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Once you’ve finished eating, stop next door to Scat Cat’s Club – Café for another delicacy from The Big Easy: beignets. These fluffy donuts are a must-have when visiting Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. Choose from Mickey-shaped Beignets with your choice of dipping sauce (or go all out and turn it into a sundae) or, for a more grown-up option, jazz them up with pipettes of boozy liqueur, such as Baileys Irish Cream, Kahlúa or RumChata.
Type of Cuisine: American
Meals Available: Snacks
Mobile Order Available: No
The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
For more adventurous eaters at Walt Disney World, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has become a fan favorite thanks to restaurants like Boma, Jiko and Sanaa. However, you don’t need to spend the time or money on a full sit-down meal to take your tastebuds on a tour of Africa.
The Mara features a family-friendly selection of both African-inspired dishes and American-style favorites, from a South African Vegetable Bowl and Chermoula-spiced Shrimp Bowl to flatbreads and sandwiches. Or, enjoy a bit of both worlds with a burger enhanced with berbere spices, a punchy spice blend from Ethiopia. For dessert, don’t miss the famous Zebra Domes.
Type of Cuisine: African, American
Meals Available: Snacks, Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Mobile Order Available: No
Well, that concludes our guide to the best quick-service restaurants at Disney World hotels. What’s your favorite spot for fast food at the Disney Resorts? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how to stretch your travel and food budget even further with our discount Disney World tickets.
