The Gourmet Secrets of Disneyland: The Ultimate Guide to the Best Restaurants and Snacks

If you're planning your next adventure at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, food is surely one of the most important considerations. We know that time in the parks is precious, and every meal must be a success. That's why we've prepared this special guide for you, with all our favorites, as if we were giving you our best tips among friends.

We'll start with table service restaurants, where you can sit down, be served, and take a real break. They often require a reservation (up to 60 days in advance!), so don't delay if you have something in mind.

Disneyland Must-Haves

• Blue Bayou Restaurant: It's an institution! Located inside the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, this restaurant offers a unique ambiance. You'll dine under a starry sky, surrounded by fireflies, by the edge of a bayou. It's the perfect place for a special occasion. The Monte Cristo Sandwich is a timeless classic, and if you want a lighter version, the French Fries from Cafe Orléans are an excellent alternative.
• Cafe Orléans: Right next to Blue Bayou, this restaurant offers Creole-inspired cuisine with a view of the Frontierland crowds. It's our favorite spot for garlic, parmesan, and parsley fries. They are truly delicious and served with a spicy aioli sauce.

Disney California Adventure Spots

• Carthay Circle Restaurant: If you're looking for a high-end experience, this is the place. Located in a replica of the famous theater where Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs premiered, this restaurant offers modern Californian cuisine. It's ideal for an elegant dinner away from the hustle and bustle.
• Lamplight Lounge: Our favorite for the atmosphere and food. With its stunning views of Pixar Pier, it's the perfect place to relax with a cocktail and creative dishes. The brunch here is incredible, and for burger lovers, the "Pastrami-Topped Burger" is worth trying. Their cane sugar beignets are to die for!

The Ultimate Guide to Quick Service Restaurants at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure

We know that sometimes you don't have time to sit down for a long meal. That's where quick service options come into play. No reservation needed; you order at the counter and find a seat. Perfect for optimizing your time in the parks!

Best Options at Disneyland

• Tiana's Palace: Brand new and already a success! This restaurant serves Cajun and Creole cuisine inspired by The Princess and the Frog. We recommend the Beignet Cold Brew, an iced coffee drink with beignet cream and a hint of cane sugar.
• Bengal Barbecue: Located in Adventureland, this spot is ideal if you're looking for flavorful skewers and easy-to-eat on-the-go dishes. The beef and chicken skewers are sure bets. You'll also find an excellent miso salad, perfect for a slightly healthier option. Don't forget to try their Thai tea with honey boba pearls.
• Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo: Dive into the Star Wars universe and savor dishes from different planets. The "Smoked Kaadu Ribs" are a delight, and the "Felucian Kefta and Hummus Garden Spread" is a great vegetarian option.

Favorites at Disney California Adventure

• Smokejumpers Grill: For burger and fries lovers, this is the spot. We tried their "Fried Pickles" and loved them! They are pickles fried in a flavorful batter, served with a buffalo ranch sauce. A true treat.
• Aunt Cass Café: If you're in the Pacific Wharf area, this café offers sandwiches and delicious soups, like their famous "Bacon Cheddar Ale Soup." It's a perfect and comforting dish.
• Cocina Cucamonga: For fast and flavorful Mexican cuisine, this is the place. Indulge in their "Ube Flan," a creamy dessert with a hint of purple sweet potato.

The Best Snacks and Drinks You Absolutely Must Try in the Parks

Now for the most important part: snacks! The goal of a day at Disney is also to nibble and discover all those little treats that make the magic. Here's our list of must-try essentials.

Timeless Classics

• Pineapple Dole Whip: A tradition! This pineapple soft-serve ice cream is the perfect refreshment for a hot day. You'll find it at the Tiki Juice Bar in Adventureland. If you're lucky enough to find it, also try the Pineapple Beignets version at the Mint Julep Bar; it's to die for!
• Hand-Dipped Corn Dog: Disneyland's corn dogs are legendary. They are coated in homemade cornmeal batter and fried on site. You'll find them at the Little Red Wagon on Main Street, U.S.A.
• Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums: Located near the Incredicoaster attraction, this warm and giant cookie is a must-have. It's the perfect comfort for those with a sweet tooth.

Must-Try Drinks and Cocktails

• M-Thai Cocktail: For adults, this tiki drink, available at the Ice Cold Refreshment Stand, is a true delight. It's a mix of rums, tropical fruit juices, cherry, and orange. Perfectly balanced between tart and sweet, it's reminiscent of Trader Sam's Mai Tai.
• Citrus Melon Punch: A non-alcoholic option we tried at Smokejumpers Grill. It's a refreshing blend of orange and lemon juice with melon syrup. The orange flavor is dominant, but it's a perfect drink to quench your thirst.
• Matcha Float: At Tropical Hideaway, you can enjoy this original iced drink. It's a blend of matcha tea with vanilla ice cream. For matcha lovers, it's an astonishing and delicious combination.

Original and Gourmet Snacks

• Street Corn Dog: A revisited version of the classic corn dog, with a touch of Mexican cuisine. We found it at Award Wieners, and it's topped with corn, cheese, and lime. A bit messy, but totally worth it!
• Chicharrón Preparado con Camarón: For a bold culinary experience, try this snack at the Cozy Cone Motel. It's a large fried pork rind topped with shrimp, lettuce, and lime. It's crunchy and full of flavor.
• Cookie Croissant: A real treat for breakfast or a gourmet break. We found it at Maurice's Treats. It's a croissant filled with cookie dough, a delight for sweet tooths.

There you have it, you're ready to devour the Disneyland parks! Don't forget to try to reserve in advance for table service restaurants and be open to new things for snacks. Have a great trip and bon appétit!