Though more well-known for their rides, attractions and child-friendly entertainment, there is another component that makes Disneyland the happiest place on earth. What’s anyone’s happy place without great food? Though you will find standard amusement park fare like popcorn, cotton candy, and chicken tenders, you can bet Disney wasn’t going to stop there. Here are the best Disneyland restaurants for the best experience at the happiest place on earth.
Blue Bayou
Blue Bayou is simply the best restaurant in Disneyland. It’s affordable, has a wide range of options and offers an amazing dining experience. You may have to gather you mateys to find this treasure because you won’t find it on any of the main streets. This restaurant is located on the bank of Disney’s Blue Bayou River which is found on the inside of the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. The food is Cajun and Creole-inspired and with entrees priced from $15 to $36, a bit more upscale than some other eateries in Disney. Favorites of this restaurant include the Le Special de Monte Cristo sandwich, Isla~Cruces Crab Cakes, Bayou Surf and Turf and several healthy and vegetarian options. Before shinning your peg leg and donning an eye patch, be sure to book your reservation as this restaurant is by reservation only. However, reservations are available up to 60 days in advance.
Plaza Inn
The Plaza Inn offers American style dining in a Victorian setting and has been a favorite pit stop of guests since the park opened in 1955. The eatery is known for two things, “Minnie and Friends – Breakfast in the Park” and fried chicken. Little ones will love being able to choose their breakfast from the breakfast buffet and dine with Minnie and all of her friends. Their menu for the later meals is relatively small compared to other restaurants, but their fried chicken is a show stopper. A true southern classic, those who order the chicken will also get mashed potatoes and gravy with a side of green beans and a biscuit. This place is also one of the few that offers free refills, so be sure to fill up before you leave.
Bengal Barbecue
What’s American dining without a place that serves food on a stick? Located in Adventure Land, this is a great place to grab a quick bite. These skewers help you do double duty, eating lunch and waiting in line for your favorite ride. The five choices they offer are: Chieftain Chicken, Banyan Beef (for those who like their skewers spicy), Bengal Beef, Safari (bacon wrapped asparagus) and the Outback Veggie skewer. They also offer a few tasty sides and healthy dessert choices to keep you, and your heart, going.
Carnation Café
If you’re looking to catch a bit of a break and grab something to eat beside the traditional comfort food, the Carnation Café is the spot. Located on Main Street USA, the outdoor eating area is a great place for people watching and staying in the thick of things. The small menu offers some great healthy choices such as a chef salad, three cheese veggie sandwich, steak melt and chicken club served on a croissant. If you’re starting your day early and need to grab breakfast, this is the place for the infamous Mickey Mouse Waffles. Guests also love the Carnation Café’s specialty coffee or espresso drinks.
The Golden Horseshoe
Another testament to Disney’s goal to entertain at every turn, The Golden Horseshoe transports guests back to the old west with a 20 minute comedy show and bluegrass concert put on by Billy Hill and the Hillbillies. This place will take you back to your junk food roots with dishes like chicken nuggets, fish ‘n chips, and a western favorite, chili in a bread bowl. Be sure to leave room for dessert because The Golden Horseshoe has some of the best. Decadent sundaes, ice cream floats and a mile high chocolate cake will please your tummy and your sweet tooth.
Village Haus Restaurant
Last on the list, but never in our hearts is the Village Haus Restaurant. All the real boys and girls (and maybe a cricket or two) will love this life-sized version of Geppetto’s workshop. Pinocchio welcomes guests who have a craving for burgers, pizza, chicken sausage sandwiches, veggie burgers, BLTs and other American classics. Located in the middle of the park and outfitted with plenty of cashiers and tons of seating, this is a great place to stop without slowing down.
Low blood sugar will keep you from riding, seeing and participating in everything Disneyland has to offer. Rather than fall victim to your hunger, or battle a temper tantrum from your tiny tyrant, stop by one of the best Disneyland restaurants. Whether it’s for a quick bite or a classic Disney dining experience, you are sure to find food and fun for all.
Katie Campbell loves exploring new places and has been an avid Disney fan since childhood. She believes that no experience is complete without good food, including amusement parks. She works as content writer for Bestcovery.com where she seeks to help discover the best of everything.
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