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Much of the time when clients are preparing for their Walt Disney World vacations the focus is on table service restaurants. It’s imperative to make reservations in advance so it’s no surprise it’s often the focus of our planning. Today thought, I’d like to talk about my favorite counter service locations. I think Disney does such an amazing job at offering a variety of food. Disney has so much more to offer than burgers and fries!! My selections below are simply my personal favorites. They are not necessarily the best value, the cheapest or anything else…just my favorites that I tend to visit over and over!

In no particular order…Hollywood Studios is not known for it’s food options but that doesn’t mean you can’t find a few hidden gems..and with new locations being added all the time!  Our go to location is Backlot Express.  It’ not fancy food by any means…burgers and sandwiches BUT I love their Chicken and Waffles and they have some awesome cupcakes! I also LOVE the atmosphere here.  It feels like you are dining right in a prop studio! They serve lunch and dinner here and they offers something for everyone! Salads, burgers, sandwiches…even gourmet hot dogs!

Looking for an awesome cupcakes on the go…be sure to check out Starbucks!!

Let’s hop over to Magic Kingdom!  One that won’t come as a shock to you is Be Our Guest. I love this location not only for it’s variety of food but for it’s unique set up! You’ll order your meal from a kiosk and then be seated by a hostess.  Once your food is ready…they bring it to you!! What an awesome idea! Remember this location is SUPER popular so make sure to get in line either VERY early or later in the afternoon. You might be lucky enough to get a reservation!

While lunch is my favorite, an early morning breakfast can get you into the park before it opens!

Ok as much as I love that Disney offers a variety of food and experiences, I’m going to be honest for a second. I’m a junkie for Disney Chicken fingers! When I was in college and working at the Magic Kingdom, I loved to go to the Tomorrowland Terrace and grab some Chicken Fingers and sit with a view of the castle (back when it was still serving food).  Since that location closed my alternate favorite is Columbia Harbor House. I love this quite little spot. They do offer a variety of food besides Chicken, like Salads, Soups,  and sandwiches!

I had to restrain myself when it came to EPCOT so I’ll share my TWO favorites (although I could pick dozens!).  My first pick is Sunshine Seasons located in the Land Pavilion (next to Soarin’). I just LOVE the breakfast options here  but even more so…lunch and dinner have so many unique offerings like asian cuisine, unique salads, rotisserie chicken and more!!

World Showcase literally has something for everyone…from AROUND the world!  Choose from Fish and Chips in the U.K. to crepes, gelato and pastries in France…traditional Moroccan Food or just plain ol’ American Burgers.  I will tell my favorite little spot in the World Showcase though…Katsura Grill!  I love how quiet the outdoor patio is here and the Shogun Combination is my favorite!! It’s a combination of Teriyaki Chicken and Beef.  It’s a great little spot, hidden away from the craziness of the park!

Speaking of quiet, hidden spots to grab a bite, let’s venture over to Animal Kingdom! One of the best places to grab a bite, also can be on the busiest!  Flame Tree BBQ often appears to have long lines and be very busy HOWEVER they’ve got a lot of great seating behind the counter service location.  Why not take a load off and enjoy an incredible view of Expedition Everest…and this amazing food!

One of my personal favorites is Yak and Yeti however due to the incredibly limited seating, I didn’t add it to this list. BUT nothing stops you from grabbing Yak and Yeti and heading over to enjoy this incredible view!

My previous 2nd choice in Animal Kingdom was Restaurantasaurus BUT after recently having some amazing flatbread at Pizzafari on a recent trip, I’m hooked! It was a really generous portion with great flavors!

Are you looking to grab a bite to eat outside of the park? Check out Captain Cook’s over at Disney’s Polynesian! Not only will you get the opportunity to check out an amazing resort but it has quick and easy access from the Magic Kingdom! My favorite is the pork nachos and self-serve Dole Whip but they also serve up salads, flatbreads and more!
One of my favorite (and CHEAP) options is to grab sandwiches from Earl of Sandwich at Downtown Disney! If you aren’t on the dining plan (gasp!) or don’t want to use a credit, this is a great option! For just $6 you can grab a yummy, toasted sandwich. My favorite is the Original 1762 (Fresh roasted beef, cheddar and creamy horseradish sauce ). If you are looking for a casual place to grab a bite while doing a little shopping, Earl of Sandwich hits the spot!!

Just remember there are tons of options…you aren’t limited to just burgers and fries for your counter service options!

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