There are a lot of restaurants in Magic Kingdom, and to state it plainly, some of them just aren’t good.
Cosmic Ray’s
We have our favorite restaurants that we’ll recommend to you time and time again, and one restaurant has started to redeem itself after a long history of disappointment, but easily one of the worst restaurants you can go to is Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. However, there are a few redeeming factors about this spot, so here’s us putting up our best defense for Cosmic Ray’s.
Everyone Can Find Something They’ll Eat
Cosmic Ray’s may be known for the absolute most basic theme park food you can find on Magic Kingdom property (and if we’re being honest, it really isn’t that great), BUT the size of the menu means that everyone in your party can find something they’ll enjoy.
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Spread
And that goes for the pickiest eaters as well. Got someone who will only eat chicken fingers? Cosmic Ray’s has you covered. But what if they only eat mac & cheese? Cosmic Ray’s can help you, too.
Chicken Strips
While the menu has tons of food that you can eat safely, we remind you that this is NOT the spot to go to if you want to see what Disney World food can really be like. This is the “we-panicked-and-didn’t-know-where-else-to-eat” restaurant, and you know what, sometimes that’s okay.
TONS of Seating Inside
Cosmic Ray’s is one of the largest quick service (aka fast food) restaurants in Magic Kingdom, and it has tons of seating to accommodate its visitors.
Cosmic Ray’s Seating
While some of this seating is outside, TONS of it is inside where you can enjoy the air conditioning on those hot Disney days.
More Cosmic Ray’s Seating
Usually, you can find a seat here for you and your family, but if you’re in the parks at peak mealtime and during a super busy time of year, it might be a little more difficult or require some waiting.
Sonny Eclipse
Yeah that’s it, end of sentence. Sonny Eclipse is the super cool alien animatronic from outer space that plays in Cosmic Ray’s, and you can hear his music act while you eat inside.
You have to say hey to Sonny Eclipse!
He plays the Astro-Organ, and he’ll also joke around in between songs with some wonderful puns that may have you laughing or playfully rolling your eyes.
Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Ray’s
He’s a great source of entertainment and Disney history, and who doesn’t want to have some epic intergalactic jazz music while they eat?
Cosmic Ray’s
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What’s your favorite thing to get at Cosmic Ray’s? Tell us in the comments!
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I used to reaaaaally like (love would be a strong word) this restaurant because you could find rotisserie chicken and vegetables there. I don’t understand why they would stop serving them. It was a healthy alternative.
I don’t understand the hatred. For us it’s a quick meal, a refreshing, cold drink, a little rest in the air con, before getting back to the business of rides and shows. The bonus (when you’re body’s still in England’s time zone) is it opens really early for lunch.
This being the “most hated” is news to me. I have been all over WDW forums, social media, etc. and been an AP for over 12 years going at some times once a week and this is the first time I’ve heard this. Sonny alone makes up for any underwhelming aspects of the food. *SHRUG*
I like Cosmic Rays
I do wish they still had the roast chicken meals which appealed to my husband in particular. However, my son and I do hit Cosmic Ray’s once per trip, often in the evening just before fireworks time. We can have a late supper and still see the fireworks in seated comfort. Since my son likes chicken strips and fries, he is happy there, and I had a nice salad last time, not fancy but generously sized and good. The large amount of seating is a plus.
I REALLY miss the rotisserie chicken, was surprisingly tasty. But even without it, have probably eaten here more than any other location at MK (with the possible exception of the Harbour House) but that is mostly because my son loves Sonny eclipse. Yeah, not the best food but I know what I’m getting and don’t leave disappointed.
I agree with Matthieu – I also really miss the rotisserie chicken with veggies. It was a huge plate of food at a reasonable price and was a nice change from burgers and fried food. I really wish they would bring it back. Lately I’ve been getting the grilled chicken sandwich from the kid’s menu, which is a great option for someone who wants a lighter option with healthier sides.