Disney Dining: Pleasing Your Picky Eaters at Walt Disney World by Leslie Clevenstine
The full service restaurants at Disney World are bustling these days with the growing popularity of their "Dining Plus" option available for Magic Your Way package. Many guests who previously stuck strictly to the counter service options at the parks or the hotel food court, are getting to sample the huge variety of culinary options available at the full service restaurants.
But new experiences in food don't appeal to everyone. Kids in particular, as well as many adults, have a limited range of what they enjoy eating. If this sounds like someone in (or all of) your group, don't let this stop you from trying a new dining experience. Many Disney restaurants also serve up a unique atmosphere as well as food, and there are ways you can enjoy both the experience and the meal.
General tips:
Every Disney full service restaurant, even the really fancy ones, has a kid's menu with kid-friendly choices like chicken nuggets, hot dogs, spaghetti, and macaroni and cheese. Picky teens and adults can order off the kid's menu too. Just don't expect larger portions.
Although you won't find it on the menu, a peanut butter and jelly sandwich is always available--you just have to ask. Don't see chicken nuggets or a hamburger on the kid's menu? Ask. They may well be able to accommodate your request.
Try a buffet. Disney does a buffet better than most, and chances are you'll find a little something for everyone. Even the kids get their own buffet area with kid favorites (but they can always eat from the main buffet if they wish). Many of the buffet restaurants are character meals, where you'll get some one-on-one time with your favorite characters as well.
Unless you're eating at a buffet or pre-plated character meal, your selections are cooked to order. So don't be afraid to ask for your entrée with no sauce, or to make a substitution. They're happy to oblige.
Recommended Disney World restaurants for picky eaters:
Best buffet: Boma (Animal Kingdom Lodge). Huge selection, good quality, exotic & tame dishes
Best character meal: Chef Mickey's (Contemporary Resort). Kid-friendly, fun, and a great dessert bar
Best fancy restaurant for picky eaters: Yachtsman Steakhouse (Yacht Club Resort). Great steaks, elegant atmosphere with strolling violinists
Best selection of "comfort" food: 50's Prime Time Café (Disney-MGM Studios). A step up from traditional diner fare in a fun 50's atmosphere
Best World Showcase restaurant for the finicky: Biergarten (Epcot). If you're not into German favorites like sauerbraten and red cabbage, you'll also find rotiserie chicken, roast pork, a variety of salads, and a fun oom-pah band (seating is family style)
About the Author
Leslie Clevenstine is publisher of YourDisneyGuide.com, an unofficial guide to making the most of your Walt Disney World vacation.