Jump to content

7 Nightmare Meals We’ve Had in Disney World


Recommended Posts

You’d think with the price tag of a Disney World vacation, the food would always be magical, but that’s not always the case.

2024-wdw-Disney-world-entrance-sign-road

Disney World

We’ve eaten a lot of meals across Disney World — the good, the bad, and the “please don’t ever make us go back there again.” And today, we’re sharing some of the most disappointing, frustrating, or just plain awkward dining experiences we’ve had in the parks and resorts. The good news? We’ve got better alternatives for every single one, so you don’t have to learn these lessons the hard way. Let’s get into it.

Planning guide for the ultimate Disney vacation

Oga’s Cantina

This place LOOKS amazing. You’re stepping into a Star Wars scene, DJ-R3X is spinning tracks, and it feels like an intergalactic party.

2021-WDW-Disneys-Hollywood-Studios-Star-

DJ-R3X

But the reality is that it’s cramped, loud, and wildly overpriced for a charcuterie board that barely feeds a Womp Rat. You’ll probably be standing elbow-to-elbow with strangers, chugging a $17 pre-made cocktail with numb-lip foam before your 45-minute time limit runs out. Don’t get us wrong, this place can be really fun and we think it’s good to do at least once but there are more chill spots to snag a drink in the parks.

2021-WDW-Disneys-Hollywood-Studios-Star-

Time to Grab a Drink

What to do instead: Head to BaseLine Tap House (also in Hollywood Studios) for a laid-back vibe, better snacks, and actual seating. Or, if you’re up for table service, hit up Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge for quality bites and classic cocktails — no space helmets required.

Tony’s Town Square

Tony’s should be charming. It’s Lady and the Tramp-themed, it’s on Main Street, and it’s one of the few table-service spots in Magic Kingdom.

2022-wdw-mk-tonys-town-square-restaurant

Tony’s Town Square Restaurant

But sadly, it’s more like “Olive Garden: Salt Edition.” Most of the entrees are forgettable, and the prices don’t match the quality. Yes, we love the Mozzarella Sticks for the Table (order that and you might be okay), but this spot doesn’t blow us away.

2023-wdw-mk-tonys-town-square-restaurant

They’re a foot long!

What to do instead: If you want Italian-style comfort food, make the monorail trip over to Trattoria al Forno at the BoardWalk. It’s a better experience all around. Or stay in the park and mobile order from Columbia Harbour House — lighter, fresher, and cheaper.

Coral Reef Restaurant

This one’s a heartbreaker. Coral Reef Restaurant at EPCOT has stunning aquarium views, but the food just doesn’t live up to the ambiance.

2024-EPCOT-Coral-Reef-Atmo-7-1-700x525.j

Coral Reef

It’s hit or miss (emphasis on the miss), and with EPCOT offering so many better options, this one’s tough to justify unless you’ve got kids who are mesmerized by sea turtles.

What to do instead: Want seafood? Go to The Boathouse in Disney Springs. Want something that’ll still entertain the kiddos? Try Teppan Edo in the Japan Pavilion — dinner and a show, with hibachi chefs that’ll win over any picky eater.

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

Pecos Bill used to be a reliable, fun, quick-service spot with a LEGENDARY toppings bar.

2024-wdw-mk-atmo-pecos-bill-tall-tale-in

Pecos Bill

But those glory days are gone. Now? The toppings bar is a sad memory, the menu feels more like a theme park Taco Bell, and the food just doesn’t wow. If you’re desperate and on a budget, it’ll fill you up. But otherwise, you’ll want to move right along.

2025-wdw-mk-pecos-bill-tall-tale-inn-and

Double Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger

What to do instead: Go to Skipper Canteen if you want something adventurous and different. Or, for better quick service, Columbia Harbour House once again comes in clutch. Bonus: It’s usually easier to find a quiet table upstairs away from the crowds.

BoardWalk Pizza Window

This one’s a late-night trap. You’re tired, you’re hungry, you’re walking back from EPCOT, and hey, look — pizza! But don’t let the hunger goggles fool you.

2023-wdw-boardwalk-resort-pizza-window-r

Pizza Window

This is some of the most basic, cafeteria-style pizza you’ll find on Disney property. It’s not offensive. But it’s not a standout, either.

What to do instead: If you’re craving pizza, walk over to Via Napoli in EPCOT. Yes, it’ll require a little more effort, but you’ll actually enjoy your slice instead of regretting it halfway through.

Turf Club Lounge

This one bums us out because it could be great. It’s got a pool table, drinks, and a few appetizers. But it just feels like a half-hearted sports bar at your uncle’s country club.

wdw-2024-saratoga-springs-resort-turf-cl

Turf Club Lounge

There’s zero Disney magic here, and unless you’re staying at Saratoga Springs and really want to avoid transportation, you can skip it.

What to do instead: Pretty much any other lounge on property. Seriously. Try Geyser Point at Wilderness Lodge for lakeside views, great drinks, and legit food. Or Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Coronado Springs for tapas and cocktails with major ambiance.

Maya Grill

This one’s not a total disaster, but it’s the definition of forgettable. Maya Grill at Coronado Springs serves up decent fajitas and empanadas, but you’ll probably leave thinking, “I’ve had better at home.” If you’re staying at the resort and need something convenient, it’ll do. Otherwise? Not worth the detour.

2023-wdw-maya-grill-restaurant-atmos-sea

Maya Grill

What to do instead: Want margaritas and Mexican food that’ll blow you away? Head to La Cava del Tequila in EPCOT or Frontera Cocina in Disney Springs. More flavor, more fun, and better memories.

Moral of the story? Not all Disney dining is created equal. Some places look amazing or carry that nostalgic charm, but once you sit down and get the bill, the magic can disappear real quick. Stick with the hidden gems, do a little research, and don’t be afraid to mobile order or switch up plans last minute if your gut’s telling you to walk away.

Keep following DisneyFoodBlog for all of your Disney news.

REVIEW: Save Your Money And Skip This Disney World Restaurant

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.


DFB-Guide-Covers-Fan-11-11-24-2.png

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

What’s the worst meal you’ve ever had in Disney World? Tell us in the comments!

The post 7 Nightmare Meals We've Had in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.

View the full article

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...