The Best Mexican Food at Disney
Though not *technically* a national holiday (anyway, yet) – Cinco de Mayo is cause for celebration for many Americans, especially when margarita-drinking and guacamole-eating is encouraged. Though these days you might have a family taco-making night with the kids instead of counting how many tequila shots you can handle before midnight, the culinary exploration into all-things fiesta is still a fun time, no matter your life stage. If you’re lucky enough to be on vacation next May 5 and even luckier to be at Disney World or Disneyland, then you have to make sure to make a pit stop at a Mexican-inspired restaurant on resort grounds. From small eateries to bars, consider this your eating itinerary. (Just make sure to pack some TUMS!).
La Cava del Tequila
Located at: the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot World Showcase at Disney World
Have a free evening off from the kids, thanks to your (amazing) mother-in-law? Score! Take your spouse and head to La Cava del Tequila, where the names prepares you for the evening ahead. With more than 100 varieties of Mexico’s national drink – tequila – you might want to chug water along with your margaritas and tastings. The vibrant, warm decor will make you feel cozy, while your buzz will keep you sipping for hours. Work up an appetite? You can order traditional Mexican appetizers, like queso blanco, guacamole or salsa.
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe
Located at: Magic Kingdom Park in Frontierland at Disney World
On your way to Adventureland after scoping out Frontierland? Make a Mexican pit stop at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, where Tex-Mex is served on the reg. This large restaurant is a steal, with all dishes under $15, and they offer a little bit of somethin’ for every palate – even your picky toddler’s taste buds. From the Southwest salad for mom and the Fajita platter for you, your kids can take bites of your dishes and order a taco burger for themselves to enjoy. Make sure to fuel up – you have rides to get on!
Maya Grill
Located at: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort Area at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
For an experience that’s on the fancier side, book a reservation at Maya Grill in the Animal Kingdom area of Disney World. Here, you’ll notice touches of Mayan motifs from the time you walk into the large dining room. A mix between Mexico’s classics and modern American alternations, you can order from a wide variety of dishes, all sure to be the perfect end to your park-trotting day. Have a kiddo with a sweet tooth? Who doesn’t? Luckily for you – and your child – there’s a wide array of dessert options, including coconut flan, lemon sorbet and chocolate abuelita panna cotta.
La Cantina de San Angel
Located at: Epcot World Showcase at Disney World
For the more laid back family, who maybe has older children instead of toddlers, consider La Cantina de San Angel at Epcot. Here, the vibe is more casual, offering tacos, empanadas, guacamole and churros, all street-cart favorites you’ve munched on time-and-time again. But for an added bonus? Cold beers, margaritas and Mexican sodas are all available, meaning you can reap the reward of riding that rollercoaster five times with your 10-year-old.
Rancho del Zocalo Restaurante
Located at: Frontierland at Disneyland Park
Literally meaning ‘Ranch of the Square’ – this open concept restaurant is at the entrance of Frontierland at Disneyland. Here, it’s about authenticity and quick service, before exploration. That’s why we recommend making this pitstop in the morning where your whole fam can enjoy a breakfast fiesta. Yep, that’s right: if your kids have asked for burritos for dinner before, here’s their chance to nom on them. If they decide they don’t like ‘em after all? There are traditional breakfast foods – like bacon, eggs and Mickey Mouse pancakes – available, too.
Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill
Located at: Disney California Adventure Park at Pacific Wharf
For the mama who can’t get enough of frozen margaritas (amen!), make sure to hit up this hot spot at Disneyland. With a photo ID (yep, you’re getting carded) – guests can enjoy the best of icy, frosty margs, in various flavors from strawberry to lemon-line. While you’re sippin’, kiddos can have their own version, sans alcohol, of course. As for food? Quick bites and small meals are available, too.
Not Into Mexican Food?
We can’t believe it – but we’re not judging you. If you’d rather not have a whole weekend dedicated to tacos and guac, chat with our travel agents who can map out a dining gameplan that better caters to your family’s preferences. Just promise us you’ll at least order one burrito for the road, okay?