Eat This, Not That: Overrated Disney World Snacks and Superior Alternatives
Many Disney vacations are centered on food. Travelers spend months grabbing the best dining reservations and scoping out must-eat snacks on blogs (like this one!).
Well, I’m here to say some snack advice is misleading. In my opinion, some “best of” Disney snack lists are clouded in nostalgia and love for anything Mickey-shaped.
Today, I’d like to discuss my favorite snacks. I think these snacks trump the more commonly photographed treats.
(Please note this is my opinion. No need to light the torches Mickey waffle lovers!)
Overrated: Mickey Pretzels – Underrated: Jumbo Bavarian Pretzels
I’m coming out swinging. Mickey-shaped pretzels are nothing special.
These can be purchased at many snack carts. And they are just Mickey-shaped versions of the microwavable ones we eat at home.
Instead, consider the Jumbo Pretzels at the Germany Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase. These pretzels are HUGE, oven-baked, and clearly of a higher caliber.
Did I mention the size? These pretzels not only taste better, but they are also shareable between multiple people.
It’s a perfect complement to around-the-world drinks.
Overrated: Turkey Leg – Underrated: Ronto Wraps and Smoked Kaadu Pork Ribs
Turkey legs tend to be a love-it-or-loathe-it item. I am in the dislike category. The appealing smell does not make up for the lackluster taste.
But I’m a carnivore and sometimes, I just need a hearty lunch. In this case, I’d head to Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios for sustenance.
Photo: Disney
My all-time favorite meal there is the Kaadu Pork Ribs from Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. These sticky ribs have incredible seasoning and are always tender/free of fat.
A close second is Ronto Wraps from Ronto Roasters. The wrap comes with a hearty pork sausage, yummy coleslaw, and unexpected deliciousness.
Photo: D23
There are just better options for meat lovers.
Overrated: Dole Whip – Underrated: Citrus Swirl
I can hear the pitchforks sharpening. Pineapple Dole Whips are one of the most beloved Magic Kingdom treats.
This tangy soft serve has satisfied many overheated guests. (And I get it, I’ve craved one on a summer day.)
If I’m being honest though, I think they’re a little sour. And sometimes that sourness keeps me from feeling refreshed.
When I need a cool down, I prefer the Citrus Swirl from the smaller Adventureland stand, Sunshine Tree Terrace. Home to Disney World’s famous Orange Bird, this stand sells my favorite type of ice cream. A swirled cup of soft serve perfectly mixes vanilla ice cream and frozen orange juice.
Photo: Disney
The orange is less tart, and the subtle vanilla swirl makes it the sundae version of a creamsicle.
Avoid the swarms of people at Aloha Isle and instead enjoy this more satisfying and easier-to-acquire treat.
Overrated: Standard Burgers and Pizza – Underrated: Adventureland Spring Rolls
Let me explain. I know that no one raves about frozen burgers and microwavable pizza. But I know too many guests get sucked into ordering them.
If you’re traveling with picky eaters, there’s a better option.
Head back to the Adventureland entrance and spy the unassuming cart. This is the Spring Roll Wagon and it’s the best spot for good eats.
The menu always offers two varieties of specialty spring rolls. (One of them is always a cheeseburger role, which tastes exactly like a Big Mac!)
The other specialty flavor has rotated between pastrami, chicken cordon bleu, and (currently) pizza!
While the menu does change seasonally, there is always at least one ‘safe’ option for the pickier eaters. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never go near defrosted theme park food again.
Overrated: Disney Cupcakes – Underrated: Gaston’s Tavern Cinnamon Rolls
When it comes to Instagrammable Disney desserts, guests love seasonal cupcakes. These are cute, colorful, and adorably themed.
But they are also just cupcakes. At best, they’re run-of-the-mill grocery store cupcakes, and at worst, they turn your tongue in unusual colors.
The superior pastry can be found in New Fantasyland.
Head into the tavern of everyone’s favorite Beauty and the Beast (1991) braggart. Skip the savories and instead order the huge Cinnamon Roll at Gaston’s Tavern.
This massive treat is the size of a small cake and is very shareable. While already smothered in gooey icing, additional icing comes on the side.
Whether you want a filling breakfast, a mid-day snack, or the perfect dessert for fireworks, this Cinnamon Roll beats out plain old cupcakes every time.
Photo: theodysseyonline.com
Overrated: Funnel Cake – Underrated: Waffle Sandwiches
Funnel cakes are great, but you can find them at any local fair or festival. Skip it and order something more unique from Liberty Square’s Sleep Hollow Refreshments.
My favorite item is the Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich. This decadent dish is a fluffy waffle smothered in chocolate hazelnut spread and generously topped with fresh berries.
I’ve been hooked for a decade.
This is a sugar and breakfast-lovers dream, and best of all, it’s served all day. But if you’re feeling salty, the Sweet and Spicy Chicken Waffle Sandwich is a close second.
Don’t just take my word for it. Try it and see why it’s hard to share.
Overrated: Premium Mickey Ice Cream Bar – Underrated: Ice Cream (Various Other Locations)
I am going after another popular choice. Sorry folks! I know this is a Disney snack cart staple.
Premium Mickey Ice Cream bars are fine. It’s hard to mess up vanilla ice cream coated in chocolate. But in my opinion, they’re ordinary.
Photo: D23
They can be purchased in local grocery stores. And if not, there are plenty of ice cream bar grocery store equivalents, minus the Mickey shape.
I suggest saving your calories for better ice cream. Some of my favorite ice cream spots include:
- L’Artisan des Glaces (EPCOT France Pavilion) – Try the Croque Glace. It’s magnifique!
- Storybook Treats (Fantasyland) – Order one of the seasonal sundaes, floats, or soft serve options. They are usually character-themed.
- Gelateria Toscana (EPCOT Italy Pavilion) – Italians know how to make gelato. Enjoy a hand-churned sundae, float, or just a scoop of naturally flavored gelato. Try the Stracciatella flavor!
Overrated: Caramel Apples – Underrated: Caramel Butter Bars
Disney Caramel Apples are beautiful to look at. The designs are creative and allow for a variety of flavors and toppings.
Many times, I’ve lingered by a shop window to watch the caramel apple artists at work.
After eating one though, I was disappointed. It was unwieldy to eat and the caramel-to-apple ratio seemed off. (Pile on more caramel Disney!)
If you want a caramel fix, head over to Karamell-Kuche in EPCOT’s Germany Pavilion. This shop/bakery is a caramel-lovers paradise.
The whole menu gets rave reviews, but the Caramel Butter Bar is my go-to. Essentially, it’s a pastry that mimics the structure of a lemon bar, replaces the lemon with caramel, and adds a rich cookie base.
Be warned, the size is deceiving. These are filling. I recommend sharing it if you’re casually snacking.
Strawberry Caramel Butter Bar
With these snack recommendations, you’re guaranteed a delicious trip. Take it from an experienced Disney snacker. I would never steer anyone wrong!
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Feature Image: Disney
