Why Eating Lunch in Magic Kingdom Is a HUGE Mistake

You’re making a huge mistake by eating lunch at Magic Kingdom.

Cinderella Castle

Don’t get us wrong — we LOVE Magic Kingdom. It was the OG Disney World park, after all. But, when it comes to the food options available there, well, things can be a bit…lackluster. Luckily for you, we happen to know where all the good eats are hiding — and you won’t even have to travel far to find them!

We know we know — there are still some delicious snacks and more at Magic Kingdom. But, more often than not we find ourselves actually leaving the park for lunch and heading to one of the monorail resorts — the Contemporary, Polynesian, or Grand Floridian — instead! Not only will you find some food at these hotel restaurants that just might become your new favorite, but it gives you a chance to explore Disney World and take a break from the chaos of Magic Kingdom.

Main Street Train Station

And now, without further ado, some of our favorite monorail hotel restaurants!

Contemporary Resort

Steakhouse 71

Steakhouse 71 is a casual dining option serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The “71” is a nod to the opening year of Walt Disney World and the restaurant itself opened on the 50th Anniversary of the Resort, October 1, 2021!

Steakhouse 71

Steakhouse 71 offers casual dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner (with varying menus for each meal and a steakhouse focus in the evenings) just steps away from the Magic Kingdom.

YUM

And if you opt for dessert (which is always a good idea), you may want to try the Steakhouse 71 Chocolate Cake, made with “15 layers of whiskey-infused chocolate cake, chocolate mousse, and raspberries – one layer for every floor at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.”

Check Out a Steakhouse 71 Review Here

Polynesian Village Resort

Capt. Cook’s

Captain Cook’s is a quick-service location, popular for being the place where you can grab Tonga Toast for breakfast in the morning, and Island-inspired dishes like the Aloha Pork Sandwich and Thai Coconut Meatballs for lunch and dinner.

Pulled Pork Nachos

For breakfast, Capt. Cook’s serves up a signature dish among its offerings: Tonga Toast! Polynesian favorites (like an Aloha Pork Sandwich and Pulled Pork Nachos) along with classic quick service eats like burgers, are served for lunch and dinner.

Read Our Review of Capt. Cook’s Here

‘Ohana

‘Ohana has an oak wood fire pit that flavors the grilled meats served at an all-you-care-to-enjoy meal each evening. In the morning, Lilo and Stitch entertain guests during an Island-style character breakfast. Hawaiian side dishes complement each meal. Okay, technically if you come here for lunch it has to be before 12:15 and you’ll be eating breakfast — but what’s wrong with that?

Breakfast

Lunch guests at ‘Ohana will be served an all-you-can-eat American breakfast influenced by the exotic tastes of Polynesia, like Hawaiian pork sausages and Island-style potatoes. The Hawaiian breads are a hit here!

Our Latest Review of ‘Ohana is Right HERE

Grand Floridian Resort

Gasparilla Island Grill

Gasparilla Island Grill is a counter-service restaurant with a standard food court menu, and it is open for guests 24 hours a day. Dine outdoors overlooking the Marina (with a view of Cinderella Castle) when the weather permits.

Disney might be the only thing better than cheese and carbs, but it’s close!

Gasparilla Island Grill offers a diverse quick service menu during all meal times. Outdoor seating is cafe-style and offers a beautiful view of the Grand Floridian marina with Cinderella Castle in the distance, while the indoor seating features roomy booths and tables in a peaceful and bright setting. Protip: Get the mac and cheese!

Check Out a Review HERE

Grand Floridian Cafe

Grand Floridian Cafe serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner in an airy, casual setting. You’ll find American fare being served at your table overlooking the hotel’s elegant courtyard.

Grand Flo Cafe fried chicken

Hearty brunch fare is served during both breakfast and lunch meal times, with breakfast items available among the selections through 2PM. A Cafe favorite served throughout the day is the Buttermilk-fried Chicken, which is served as a dinner entree with sides and as Chicken and Waffles during breakfast and lunch.

See Our Latest Review of Grand Floridian Cafe

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