I’ve been going to Disneyland at least twice a year since I was like 5 years old, which is a LOT for a NorCalian. It wasn’t until a couple years ago that I discovered that Disneyland ACTUALLY HAS GOOD FOOD! That is, if you know where to look. Just for you, I’ve compiled a list of the best cheap food from the most to the least expensive that you can find at Disneyland Resort, so you don’t have to go years without knowing where the good stuff is.
10. Monte Cristo Sandwich from Cafe Orleans (New Orleans Square) – $18.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
The Monte Cristo can be found at Cafe Orleans if you don’t have a reservation for the Blue Bayou. This sandwich is deep-fried to perfection topped with powdered sugar. Served with a side of berry puree, it is the perfect combination of savory and sweet. Sliced turkey, ham, and swiss sounds so simple but how can something so simple taste so good?
9. Specialty Fried Chicken from Plaza Inn (Main Street U.S.A.) – $16.49
Photo by Alyssa Wang
I love coming to the Plaza Inn in the middle of the day around 4 pm. There’s no line and it’s the best time to enjoy this perfectly fried, juicy, tender chicken.
#SpoonTip: If you ask for no leg, they’ll sub it with a breast or a thigh which means more meat.
8. Lobster Roll from Harbour Galley (Critter Country) – $14.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
This small shack is easily overlooked, which makes it the best place to relax. It is right across the Haunted Mansion exit, just bordering Critter Country and New Orleans Square. The seating area has a great view of the Rivers of America, where you can watch ducks swim peacefully while you munch on your lunch. The lobster roll is full of flavor and tastes the best when warmed.
7. Lobster Nachos from Cove Bar (Paradise Pier) – $14.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
These lobster nachos are arguably the best deal in the park. It’s a mountain of tortilla chips topped with chunks of fresh lobster, pico de gallo, black beans, jalapenos, chipotle crema, and oaxaca cheese sauce. Definitely share this among two or three people.
6. Mickey’s Fun Wheel from Cove Bar (Paradise Pier) – $10.25
Photo by Alyssa Wang
For the 21+ year olds: This secret menu item from the Cove Bar will get you buzzed real quick because it’s strong, but tastes amazing. What more could you ask for? #turntatDisney
5. Mickey-Shaped Beignets from Cafe Orleans (New Orleans Square) – $8.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
These are almost too cute to eat… keyword: almost. These fluffy beignets are topped with powdered sugar and come with a vanilla bean dipping sauce. Yum.
4. Hot-Link Corn Dog from Corn Dog Castle (Paradise Pier) – $8.49
Photo courtesy of yelp.com
I’m not much of a corn dog person because I don’t really like corn bread, but this one has a special place in my heart. It’s worth the long line, trust me.
#SpoonTip: If you ask for it without the side, you’ll save some $$.
3. Pommes Frites from Cafe Orleans (New Orleans Square) – $6.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
These thin garlic parmesan fries are light and don’t make you feel oily and heavy after you eat them. Served with a spicy remoulade for dipping, this combo is #OTP.
2. Chipotle Chicken Avocado Sandwich from Earl of Sandwich (Downtown Disney) – $6.99
Photo by Alyssa Wang
This is hands down the best sandwich I’ve ever had. It has the perfect balance of chicken, chipotle, avocado, and bacon. Every bite is evenly layered and delicious.
1. Dole Whip from Tiki Juice Bar (Adventureland) – $4.19
Photo by Alyssa Wang
If you haven’t heard about this yet, where have you been? But really, this delicious, refreshing treat has the perfect amount of sweetness and creaminess, and is also dairy-free.
#SpoonTip: There is a shorter line on the Tiki Room side!