Disney World Quick Service Food: Not Just Burgers

It’s no secret that Disney World has a variety of sit-down restaurants. However, did you know that Disney World has a plethora of unique dining experiences that are quick service? When most people think of a fast theme park meal, they think of burgers and fries or other typical American fare. That’s not the case with Disney. While you can definitely grab a (really good) burger, there are many more options available to you. Let’s take a look at some unique meals throughout the Walt Disney World parks!

Magic Kingdom has come a long way in recent years to appeal to different taste buds. At my favorite counter service restaurant in the park, Columbia Harbour House (menu), you have the option of the Lighthouse Sandwich, which includes hummus, broccoli slaw, and tomato. It’s really flavorful and actually quite filling. There are also many platters of various seafood, vegetarian chili, and even a really delicious clam chowder. Nearby, Sleepy Hollow (menu) is also cooking up something truly unique and very very tasty. Didn’t you know? Waffle sandwiches are all the rage in Liberty Square. I recently tried the fantastic Nutella and Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich. It was HUGE and really good. Sleepy Hollow also creates a waffle sandwich with spicy chicken and another with ham, prosciutto, and swiss cheese. Crazy, right? Yeah! Crazy good!

Taking a look at Animal Kingdom, everyone knows about Flame Tree Barbecue and its menu of meatalicious (I just made that word up) offerings that are definitely above and beyond most theme park dining options. However, most people forget about a place in DinoLand U.S.A. called Restaurantosaurus (menu). One of my favorite counter service meals in all of Disney World is right here. The Shrimp Po Boy is unique and delicious. Instead of typical fries, I order sweet potato fries on the side because they are healthier and more tasty. There is always ample seating available and, as you may notice, the theme of the restaurant is really fun.

While Disney’s Hollywood Studios doesn’t have the best reputation for great counter service meals, you can find really delicious specialty sandwiches and sushi at Starring Rolls (menu). I think people forget about Starring Rolls because it’s assumed to be a breakfast spot. Just goes to show not to judge a book by its cover! Fairfax Fare (menu) at the Studios is also revolutionizing the hot dog. Say goodbye to boring ketchup and mustard and hello to gourmet meat on a bun. I would have never come up with some of these creations, but they are truly amazing from the reviews that I’ve been reading! Macaroni and Cheese and Truffle Oil on a hot dog sound good to you? It might sound strange, but don’t knock in until you try it. I’m sure peanut butter and jelly sounded odd to whomever invented that! Now, if only I can convince Disney to get on the veggie dog train…

I am the biggest fan of Epcot for many reasons, and one of those reasons is definitely the variety of food found all over the park. Undoubtedly, the largest counter service restaurant in all of Epcot is Sunshine Seasons, found in The Land pavilion. People bypass it while heading for Soarin’ and end up missing out on a gem. For breakfast, lunch, and dinner, Sunshine Seasons has got you covered. There are different stations with all sorts of food to choose from. I recently discovered the Togarashi Seared Tuna Salad. If they ever get rid of this, I’m going to cry my eyes out. That’s seriously how much I love it. Please, do yourself a favor next time you’re in Epcot and grab a bite at Sunshine Seasons. You won’t be disappointed.

Obviously, Epcot’s World Showcase is the cream of the crop for unique eats in Disney World, but I think it’s important to point out a few places that sometimes get skipped over. For some reason, the Norway pavilion’s Kringla Bakeri og Cafe (menu) is just thought of as a dessert bakery. That is so not true. I had an amazing Salmon and Egg Sandwich a few months ago that knocked my socks off. It’s served on a flat piece of bread with smoked salmon, red onion, egg, and a little dill. What a healthy alternative to chicken strips and fries!

I’m rounding out my list with perhaps the most exotic fare available in all of Walt Disney World, Tangerine Cafe (menu).  Head over to Morocco in the World Showcase, and you’ll find a selection of Middle Eastern food sure to please.  I really like the Falafel Wrap, which is served with two sides, Couscous salad and Lentil salad.  What’s great about Tangerine Cafe is that the portions are rather large, so it’s pretty easy to split a meal with another brave soul who’s looking to branch out from basic American food at Disney World, as well.

Any of you out there have quick service meals that you just love?!  Let me know in the comments below!