Meals in and around the Magic Kingdom

Everyone's got their favorites, so here are mine. This was inspired by my childhood friend's upcoming trip to celebrate her Halloween birthday.


Disney's California Adventure (gluttonous pleasure): Corndogs! ~ moved from Corndog Castle (R.I.P.) to Bountiful Farmers Market. Yes, they are also off Disneyland's Main Street in the Red Wagon, but these come with fries instead of chips!!

Downtown Disney (fine dining): Osso bucco at Catal ~ When in season, by far the finest meal without moving your vehicle. If you can score a table with a view, even better for people watching and/or fireworks gazing.

Downtown Disney (sweet tooth): Beignets at Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen To Go ~ Per a reliable source, these are authentic enough to be served in NOLA. Be sure to grab extra napkins. Available in quantities of six or ten.

Grand Californian (big spender): Napa Rose ~ Awarded the best new restaurant in Orange County. Fantastic service and creative courses from beginning to end. Admire the Craftsman style decor.

Grand Californian (buffet): Storyteller Cafe ~ Easygoing dinner spread featuring family pleasing chicken, seafood and pastas. Oh, and bread pudding rules here. Less stressful than standing around Downtown at about $30 for adults. Just beyond the grandiose main lobby.

Disneyland (beverage): Mint Julep in New Orleans Square ~ While it might not include any actual bourbon, it IS refreshing and more satisfying than standby sodas or lemonade. Found at both the French Market and the appropriately named Mint Julep Bar 'round back by the train station.

Disneyland (meaty snack): Beef skewer at Bengal Barbecue ~ Straightforward hunks of protein sweetened with sauce. Alternating bites between this and the grip of green onion provides some much needed energy (hey, low carb too).

Anaheim (hotel dining): K'ya in Hotel Menage ~ Chic and affordable thisclose to the mouse? With an adjacent palapa bar serving $5 paninis, they now serve an international selection of 'street food' in their modern setting ....all for under $10.

Anaheim (hole-in-the-wall): Zankou Chicken ~ A short drive down Ball and turn left into the strip mall. Featuring mouthwatering garlic sauce, shawerma, and yes, roasted chicken. Generous portions + styrofoam plates = experiencing local culture at reasonable cost.


I'm sure there's much more to comment on, but these all work for me.