Rating the best of Disneyworld dining for kids(part 1)

I thought the best approach to this is assume everyone will be at every park at least once on their trip as well as visiting Downtown Disney at least once. That being assumed this post will strictly focus on what we consider the best of the counter service options in all of Disneyworld dining with kids. I will also give a short description as to why those are our choices and to some surprise it is not always because of the food. Strange isn't it?

1. The absolute best counter service Disneyworld dining has to offer is at Downtown Disney and it is called Wolfgang Puck Express! This is without a doubt the best quality and selection of any counter service restaurant on property. If you are on the dining plan (regular or quick service) this is a not to be missed stop. The portions are large and the quality is exceptional.

2. For number two I am going to have to go with Sunshine Seasons inside The Land Pavilion at Epcot. The food is always OK but the selection resembles a small food court so everyone can find something that appeals to them. This makes the Disneyworld dining experience much less stressed when one family member wants one thing and someone wants something else. For the most part the variety is diverse enough to appeal to everyone.

3. Number three is at Magic Kingdom and is a tie between Columbia Harbor House and Cosmic Ray's. Columbia Harbor House is a favorite of ours for one main reason "SWEET TEA" and it is about the only place Disneyworld dining offers it sweetened. The fact that they have a pretty good salad, sandwich, and of course fish and chips is a nice option from traditional park food. Cosmic Ray's has a large selection with lots of seating. This little alien guy plays the piano and sings while you eat which is annoying to me but the kids love it. If you are on the dining plan you could actually share food here and save some meal credits for later especially if you choose the ribs and chicken. This is usually enough to feed two adults and two kids while only using 2 counter service meal credits!

4. For this slot I am going with Flametree BBQ at the Animal Kingdom. This is actually a pretty good meal and once again strays from traditional theme park food. They serve up BBQ ribs, chicken, and pork with the sides also. The seating is very relaxed among all the trees and natural wildlife which is also very appealing. It is kind of like a midday break from all the Disney craziness.

5. For the final spot I am going way out of the box on this one. The Backlot Express at Hollywood Studios is another good stop off point because of its location. The only reason this place is in my top five is because it is the only place we have found where there is a place to get free refills. This might sound silly but on a hot day a free refill to take with you as you leave the restaurant is priceless. (Not to mention that a coke is 2.50). The food is typical fast food burgers and chicken nuggets but the kids seem to love it but, please do not go expecting to be blown away by the food!


In closing I would like to mention that without kids walking around World Showcase in Epcot can be a real treat. Each pavilion offers a counter service and for those who enjoy trying things this is a great option for you! You can choose Mexican, Chinese, Japanese, Norwegian, German, Moroccan, United Kingdom, or French as a counter service meal or snack! Just another terrific option in the world of Disneyworld dining!