Disney Dining Hidden Gem: Breakfast at Ale & Compass

There are plenty of ways to spend a morning at Walt Disney World—power-walking to Cosmic Rewind at Early Entry, grabbing a Mickey-shaped snack and calling it “breakfast,” or maybe even sleeping in (gasp). But what if I told you there’s a table-service breakfast that’s filling, affordable, and just steps away from EPCOT’s International Gateway?

Let’s talk about breakfast at Ale & Compass at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. It might not have characters or flashy entertainment, but what it does offer is one of the best breakfast values you can find on property. Yes, even if you’re trying to make rope drop.

Ale & Compass Logistics

Location & Transportation

Ale & Compass is tucked inside Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, right off the lobby. If you’re staying at one of the Crescent Lake resorts (Yacht Club, Beach Club, or BoardWalk Inn – or even Swan/Dolphin/Swan Reserve), it’s a short and scenic walk. Guests at any Skyliner resort can easily fly on over to the International Gateway station and walk over to the Yacht Club.

If you’re staying at another resort or off-property, you’ll need to take a Disney bus from your resort to another theme park (not EPCOT) and then transfer to Yacht Club, or catch a rideshare. You can also drive yourself and park in the Yacht Club’s parking lot if you have a dining reservation. Just be aware that the parking lot is a small hike from the lobby, so build in a couple of extra minutes to your arrival time.

Reservations & Availability

Breakfast is served from 7:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., making it flexible for both early risers and late sleepers. Dining reservations are recommended, but this location tends to have better availability than character dining or resort hotspots. Same-day walk-up availability is also common, especially earlier in the morning.

In our experience, Ale & Compass will open approximately 5 minutes before 7:30 am to start getting people seated and served quickly, and it’s possible to finish your meal and be at the International Gateway by 8:00 am. It’s easy to finish your meal and be at the International Gateway by 8:30 am (when early entry typically begins).

Cost

Adult entrées range from $16 to $23, and you have the option to add the continental buffet and a non-alcoholic beverage (milk, juice, tea, coffee, or soda) for a total of $28. But here’s where it gets interesting: if you choose one of the higher-priced entrées and would’ve ordered a beverage anyway, you’re essentially paying less than a dollar to get access to the buffet. This is an incredible deal. You’re getting unlimited continental buffet access, plus a high-quality entree and your beverage for under $30. You can’t find a deal like that anywhere else at WDW.

If you’ve got kids in your party, kids’ meals are pretty reasonably priced and already come with a drink. Although it’s not on the menu, you can also do the continental buffet option for anyone 9 and under. The price for kids is $13 and includes access to the buffet and the kids’ meal of their choice.

Ale & Compass Atmosphere

The vibe here is calm, cozy, and decidedly grown-up. There’s a nautical theme, but it’s not in-your-face. Think navy tones, subtle lighting, and cushioned booths rather than beach balls and rope.

It’s quiet—especially if you’re dining on the earlier side. No characters, no chaotic lines, and no rush. You can actually hear your family talk about their park plans without yelling over clanging plates or background music. And it’s air-conditioned. Never underestimate the power of a peaceful, cool start to your day.

Ale & Compass Breakfast Food

Continental Buffet – $28*
Only available at this price, which includes an entree and beverage

The buffet is a self-serve spread that includes:

• Fresh fruit

• Yogurt parfaits

• Breakfast pastries

• House-made granola

• Breakfast oats

• Cinnamon rolls

• Biscuits and gravy

• Deviled eggs

It’s not a standalone meal unless you’re a very light eater, but it pairs beautifully with the plated entrées. If you’re a nibbler or just want to grab a little extra to round out your meal, the buffet is a perfect addition. It’s a great way to get some fruit into your Disney diet, and the pastries work well as a little treat at the end of your meal.

Crab Cake Benedict – $19
Poached eggs, jumbo lump crab cakes, arugula, and lemon-herb hollandaise

Eggs Benedict is my happy place. Which means I have sampled plenty of versions of this dish across all of Walt Disney World, and this is a good one. For $19, you get two poached eggs served over jumbo lump crab cakes, with a bed of arugula and a lemon-herb hollandaise that’s bright and balanced. It’s plated beautifully and feels upscale without being fussy.

The crab cakes are the real deal—no filler, just flavor—and the dish didn’t feel heavy or greasy. It’s an excellent option if you want something savory and a bit more refined than the standard eggs-and-bacon fare.

Shrimp and White Cheddar Grits – $23
with Poached Egg, Chorizo, and Charred Tomato Stew

This is THE choice at Ale & Compass, in my opinion. There are so many layers of flavor and texture. And maybe shrimp and charred tomatoes isn’t your idea of a great 7:30 am meal, but it really fueled me up for a day of touring EPCOT. The chorizo had a healthy kick, the shrimp were perfectly cooked, and the grits were super creamy and cheesy. Would order again … and again.

Is Ale & Compass Breakfast Right For You?

1. If you want a quiet, relaxing breakfast before heading to EPCOT, then Ale & Compass is perfect – it’s minutes from the International Gateway.

2. If you’re looking for great value on property, then the buffet + entrée combo is one of the best deals you’ll find.

3. If you’re looking for characters, in-your-face theming, or exciting entertainment, Ale & Compass isn’t the breakfast spot for you.

Bottom line? Ale & Compass breakfast is underrated, uncomplicated, and downright delicious. It’s one of the best deals you’ll find at Walt Disney World.

Have you had breakfast at Ale & Compass? Let us know about your experience in the comments!