Top 10 Counter Service Restaurants

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!  Starring Rolls Cafe is a place we stop almost every trip...either for lunch or a snack!  They have some AWESOME sandwiches, fruit/cheese plates and they've even been known to serve Sushi! They also have an amazing selection of desserts...especially cupcakes!!

Another favorite at Hollywood Studios is Backlot Express is another personal favorite! I 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!

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!

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 this incredible view...all while enjoying some incredible BBQ!

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!

Another favorite spot in Animal Kingdom is Restaurantosaurus! I love the themeing of this restaurant almost as much as Backlot Express but they serve sweet potato fries here!! It's mostly a burger place but they do have a few unique choices like a BLT salad, a Black Bean  burger and a Macaroni and Cheese Hotdog! Plus it's tucked away, back near Dinosaur.

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!!

 Click below to look at menu's from all restaurants on Disney property!