Untangling the Knot: Ranking Magic Kingdom Quick Service Dining

Any number of blogs will attempt to rank dining or attractions at Disney World. Nostalgia, personal experiences, and food quality come into play in these rankings. I will admit, it is impossible to eliminate such experiences from a ranking. Below you will find my list with reasoning and tips to make sure you have the best possible experience. I have focused on Quick Service Restaurants that have a more traditional meal set up as opposed to food trucks and snack stands. If you need help maximizing your magical itinerary reach out to Untangled Vacations through Facebook or our Web Page.

1a. Be Our Guest Restaurant

Well, if you were expecting something different, I'm sorry to disappoint. Though keep in mind the "a" next to my ranking. Lunch at Be Our Guest is still considered quick service though it operates more like Table Service. There are three rooms where you may be seated. Experiences can vary greatly depending on location and your personal expectations from the price. While the food is fabulous, picky kids may disagree. Wanna get off to a bad start of your day? Fork out $37/kid to watch them take two bites. Trust me.... I've been there.

Untangled Tip: When checking in you can request which section you prefer. With small children probably best to stay out of the West Wing as it tends to be a little more scary. But don't worry, while waiting for food you can walk around and see all sections. That can help you plan your next visit to Be Our Guest.

1b. Pinocchio Village Haus

Remember all that talk about experiences impacting rankings. This is it. As most children do, my kids love pizza. They could eat it every meal. Take into account they also love "Its a Small World;" we don't stand a chance. Perfectly situated at the half way point of my one day itinerary which allows one to hit the major Magic Kingdom attractions in just one day... It's a no-brainer. Pinocchio Village Haus is a must.

Untangled Tip: Schedule to arrive before the main lunch crowd shows up. If you can eat around 11am, you can prevent hangry kids and avoid waiting in a long line. As an added bonus, there should be seating availability inside, along the window overlooking "Its a Small World."

2. Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café

This is where some other Disney Experts roll their eyes. Ok, the food is a typical overpriced theme park fast food restaurant with hamburgers and hot dogs. I get it.... the food is nothing to write home about. However, where else in the galaxy can you be serenaded by an animatronic alien named Sonny Eclipse. Also, though its located in Tomorrowland, it borders Fantasyland making it a centralized location to stop halfway through your day for lunch or at the end of the day for dinner.

Untangled Tip: As with most restaurants with a "show" the good seats fill up quickly. Arrive before peak eating time. You can spot Sonny in the lower seating area on the left side of the restaurant.

3. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café

Looking for the non traditional hamburgers and hot dogs. This restaurant provides Mexican flare. In addition to not being completely standard park food it is surprisingly very good. The only reason it is not further up the list is simply location. Located in Frontierland it is hard to maximize its location for a speedy itinerary. However, it can be done with proper planning.

Untangled Tip: Get the Rice Bowls. They are healthy portions, taste great and keep you energized the rest of the day.

4. Casey's Corner

And here comes one of the most iconic Magic Kingdom Restaurants. Great location with a perfect view of the castle.

While Casey's is a charming classic, $10 hotdogs just aren't our thing. This does turn into a great nighttime dinner location around the holidays when the sun sets early and with the lights. Casey's Corner is be higher on our list during holidays.

Other Notables:

5. Columbia Harbour House

6. The Friar's Nook

7. The Lunching Pad

Untangled Tip: Looking to save money with kids. Bring in a couple Uncrustables. Save the money to buy the kids souvenirs. $7 everyday for lunch/kid can add up if not a meal plan.

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