For this foodie, the Magic Kingdom is truly a place where dreams come true. Whether you’re looking for a fairytale experience complete with Prince Charming and tiaras or for a quick snack before you take on Splash Mountain, there is something for everyone. I worked in the Magic Kingdom for a few months last year for the Disney College Program and had a chance to experience all of the dining experiences that the Magic Kingdom has to offer.
Here are the eight places that made my can’t miss list:
1. Gaston’s Tavern
When I was eating and drinking in the Magic Kingdom on a daily basis, Gaston’s Tavern was one of my favorites. Their warm, large cinnamon rolls are the perfect pair for watching Wishes from Fantasyland if you don’t want to fight the crowds in front of Cinderella’s Castle. Gaston’s Tavern is also known for its drink, LeFou’s Brew, which kind of tastes like applesauce TBH.
Location: Fantasyland
2. The Friar’s Nook
The Friar’s Nook was always my favorite rainy day eatery. It doesn’t have indoor seating, so I don’t know why I liked eating here in the rain so much. The Friar’s Nook offers several variation of macaroni and cheese. My favorite is just regular macaroni and cheese with bread crumbs on top.
Location: Fantasyland
3. Be Our Guest
Some of my fondest Disney memories come from Be Our Guest. If I’m being completely honest, you can skip out on their breakfast and just enjoy their lunch or dinner. Be Our Guest operates as a quick service restaurant for lunch and a sit-down restaurant for dinner. Be Our Guest is the only place in the Magic Kingdom where you can buy alcohol, because is any trip to France complete without a glass on wine?
This is also the only place that the Beast does meet and greets. Be aware that you do need to make reservations for any of the three meal times months in advance, as it does fill up quickly, Make sure and try the Grey Stuff (it’s delicious).
Location: Fantasyland
4. Liberty Tree Tavern
While I have never tried their lunch or dinner myself, I can vouch for the fact that their Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake in itself is worth making a reservation to Liberty Tree Tavern. This vanilla cake with toffee filling, caramel sauce, and vanilla ice cream quickly became one of my favorite desserts in the Magic Kingdom. The Tavern also has an amazing storytelling atmosphere.
Location: Liberty Square
5. Pinocchio Village Haus
Pinocchio Village Haus, affectionally called PVH by cast members, may be known for its flatbread pizzas and chicken parmesan sandwiches, but is also has the best chicken nuggets in the entire park. Yes, I have tried them all. No, this is not a statement I make lightly. They also serve a Tiramisu Gelato that is fantastic after you return from your trip to Neverland at Peter Pan’s Flight, which is right across the way.
Location: Fantasyland
6. Big Top Souvenirs
Located in Storybook Circus, Big Top Souvenirs is my favorite place to stop in for a quick snack. No trip to the Magic Kingdom is complete without a Goofy Gusher paired with one of their sweet treats. My personal favorite sweet treat is their Mickey-shaped macaroon.
#SpoonTip: This is also one of the best places to hide out from the rain.
Location: Fantasyland
7. Cinderella’s Royal Table
Like Be Our Guest, reservations for Cinderella’s Royal Table fill up months in advance. If you’re looking for somewhere that is truly straight out of a fairytale that overlooks Fantasyland, then this is the place for you. For dinner, I recommend their slow-roasted pork tenderloin paired with their lemon sorbet for dessert.
Location: Fantasyland
8. Main Street Confectionery
The best way to end the day at the Magic Kingdom is in the Main Street Confectionery. Inside, you’ll find candy and treats galore. I liked to pop in and grab a bag of cheddar popcorn before watching the Kiss Goodnight on Main Street, USA.
Location: Main Street, USA