This chapter is from the book
This chapter is from the book
This chapter is from the book
Dining at the Magic Kingdom
While Walt Disney World’s single most popular meal reservation is located within the Magic Kingdom, many find that in general the restaurant selection here is pretty limited, with little variety, as compared to other parks at WDW. But that is not to say that the food is not good. The choices for lunch are certainly going to fulfill most groups’ needs, just with less flair and selection than in other parks. As for dinner, you still have several solid restaurant choices, but remember that there is no alcohol in the Magic Kingdom, so that may make you want to swing dinner plans somewhere else.
Table Service
Cinderella's Royal Table
$$$ 
American
The Once Upon a Time Breakfast, located inside Cinderella's Castle, is the single most popular meal throughout Walt Disney World. Trust me when I say that the Advanced Reservations phones light up at 7 a.m. months ahead of time to book seats at this character meal. So is it worth it? If you have a little princess in your group (or prince, for that matter), it is. Although the menu is standard, the setting inside the castle is magical, even for adults. Lunch has recently been changed to a character meal as well, so check on times then if the breakfast if booked up.
The Crystal Palace
$$ 
American
Buffet
The wait here can be long, especially for lunch. The food is traditional, and well prepared, so if that is the kind of meal experience you are looking for, go for it. This is another place where advanced reservations are a must, and probably one you want to make before you leave on your vacation. Winnie the Pooh and friends are the constant character hosts at this restaurant.
Liberty Tree Tavern
$$$ 
American
The Liberty Tree Tavern sports traditional American fare in a Revolutionary-era setting, smack dab in the middle of Liberty Square. I recommend the poultry selections or the carved meats. Don't come here for lunch if you are in a rush, as it can take some time.
The Plaza Restaurant
$$ American
Enjoy the casual charm of Main Street U.S.A. in this bright, open restaurant decorated with early 1900s décor. The table service is a bit quicker than usual, though the wait for a table can be significant. Stick to the sandwiches here, and let the soda fountain tempt you with something sweet at meal's end.
Tony's Town Square
$$ Italian
This Main Street U.S.A. restaurant inspired by the movie Lady and the Tramp offers prompt table-service. I recommend sticking with the more traditional pasta dishes.
Counter Service
Aloha Island based snacks including the famous Dole Whip
Casey’s Corner best hot dog in all of WDW
Columbia Harbour House, as well as soups and salads
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café burgers and chicken choices
Main Street Bakery incredible array of sweets
Pecos Bill Café #1 burger stand in the Kingdom. Why? The fixings bar!
The Pinocchio Village Haus, fries, and dogs
El Pirata y El Perico Restaurant food of a Mexican variety
The Tomorrowland Terrace Noodle Station—Salads and noodle dishes