Planning a trip to Magic Kingdom soon?

As you know, what you eat while at Disney World is going to be a HUGE part of the experience, and we get that navigating all the options when it comes to restaurants can be overwhelming. Do you get that churro and Mickey pretzel to eat on the go and hit up Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, or skip some rides for a character meal at Crystal Palace? We’re here to help you ditch the stress and find some spots that will truly make your taste buds happy, without breaking the bank.

Let’s go over three categories of restaurant options for you that are ACTUALLY worth your money!

Craving Something Light? (Ditch the Heavier Options)

If you’re craving something light, skip directly past the heavier options and consider one of these three: Columbia Harbour House, Casey’s Corner, or Sleepy Hollow Refreshments! It’s really hard to pass on any of these when you’re in the mood for a light lunch. Casey’s Corn Dog Nuggets, Harbour House’s Lobster Roll, and Sleepy Hollow’s Waffle Sandwiches — Say Less!

Alternatively, if you do want that full meal, there’s no option better than Liberty Tree Tavern. Just keep in mind that it’s a very heavy meal (you’re essentially eating a Thanksgiving feast).

Picky Eater? (We’ve Got You Covered)

If your party is hungry but can’t handle the exotic, go directly toward the surefire crowd pleasers like these: Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe and Pinocchio Village Haus. These are where you’re going to find those standard, more “theme park” menus with items like burgers, flatbreads, salads, chicken strips, etc.

They’ve also got Mobile Order and PLENTY of indoor seating at these places.

Alternatively, if your taste buds are screaming for wild and adventurous meals, there might not be a better option than Skipper Canteen. This table service restaurant is located in Adventureland, and the menu here has all kinds of adventurous eats, like falafel, curried vegetable stew, “Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork, and a WHOLE sustainable fish.

On a Budget? (Skip the Hype)

If you need to get your grub on, but your wallet is feeling particularly light, you’re going to want to skip, not run, directly past the character dining and visit places like Columbia Harbour House and Casey’s Corner. 

We mentioned them earlier, but that’s just because of how rock-steady they are. They’re truly some of the tried-and-true favorites of Disney World fans.

Both are quick-service restaurants that are significantly cheaper than table service and character dining spots. Also, Mobile Order is going to get you in and out of these in record time, which will help get you back in the game and enjoy your day at Magic Kingdom to the fullest!

Alternatively, if you’ve got the budget for it, you truly can’t go wrong with either Cinderella’s Royal Table or Be Our Guest Restaurant. Just remember that what you’ll be paying for is the location and characters more than the quality of the eats.

That being said, the experiences can be pretty magical. How often do you get to get inside of Cinderella Castle, let alone eat there? Or be inside of the Beast’s castle?

And that’s it! Those are just a couple of the places that we feel are ACTUALLY worth your money in Magic Kingdom. Hopefully, that helps you as you plan for your next trip!

With DOZENS of places to eat at Disney World, we know it can be tough to plan your meals. That’s why we wrote the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining. We have reviews, pictures, and details about every restaurant all in one digital download – along with ALL of our best tips and strategies from decades of Disney World trips. 

Stay tuned to DFB for more tips and planning advice as you get ready for your upcoming vacation!

One of Our Favorite Disney World Meals Is Coming to a Hollywood Studios Restaurant!

What are your favorite and least favorite restaurants in Magic Kingdom? Let us know in the comments!