Bottled water costs more than chocolate milk, so don’t pay an arm and a leg for just any meal. You will dream about these foods for weeks after you leave, I guarantee it.
This is not to be confused with the "cheapest food" list. And you won’t see the Pineapple Dole Whip on here because this is not a rookie list either. Dole Whip is for Disney Transplants. They merely adopted Disney, I was born in it. This is a native list. Enjoy the truly best things to eat at the Happiest Place on Earth.
5. Plaza Inn Fried Chicken
The Plaza Inn has been a Disneyland staple since day one. It was one of the most beloved spots of the boss man himself, Walt Disney. The dazzling interiors designed by Mrs. Disney create a sense of elegance and nostalgia. No black tie required!
Walt wanted the Plaza Inn to welcome the whole family for fast-casual dining. The Specialty Fried Chicken was a fan favorite from the start. This signature dish includes three pieces of chicken fried in buttery batter, dashed with a delectable blend of herbs and spices, served with hearty mashed potatoes, buttermilk biscuit, and seasonal vegetables. They manage to create a harmonious balance of crispy and chewy in every bite. Sending you right back to the comfort of home. Like being at your family’s Thanksgiving dinner, but Donald Duck passes the potatoes.
Price: $18.49
4. Mickey Beignets
Hidden behind New Orleans Square, there is a walk-up window called the Mint Julep Bar. There is almost always a line, but there is mobile order pick up availability (don’t be a rookie, get the app). The Mint Juleps are non-alcoholic and not necessary. But the golden medallions buried in the bubbling fryers are worth the voyage.
The traditional Mickey beignets are lightly fried pillows of dough dusted with sweet powdered sugar. These are available year-round, but the best beignet flavors come in seasons. Delightful creations appear throughout the year, like pumpkin spice, peppermint, chocolate-strawberry, and “Pirate’s Gold” butterscotch. They don’t stick around for long; you’ll have to find them before they're gone!
Traditional 3-Pack: $4.99 Traditional 6-Pack: $8.49
Seasonal 3-Pack: $5.49 Seasonal 6-Pack: $8.99
3. Mickey Pretzel with Cheese
The Mickey Pretzel with cheese is available just about everywhere in Disneyland. You cannot go wrong with a soft pretzel and hot melted nacho cheese. It is no secret that we love a photogenic snack-worthy of our feed. But this classic combo is more than just a pretty face.
You must start with the ears. Their rounded shape offers easy access to the cheese dipping cup. The sauce is creamy, covering the pretzel-like a warm blanket. The oversized salt flakes effortlessly enhance the soft chewy bread holding onto them. Then, you rip off the chin. As you inch inward, you’ll notice the dough is softer. The eyes are the prizes of the piece. Try to save enough sauce for those little beauties.
Price: $6.00
2. Bengal BBQ Skewers
If you are wondering, “Do you eat anything that doesn’t involve white carbs?”
First of all, why? Second of all, you are in luck. If you or your loved one are suffering from ketosis, I have a delicious solution for you.
Located in Adventureland across from Indiana Jones Adventure, you will find Bengal Barbeque. There is patio seating scattered around a thatched palapa. Their specialties are called Jungle Skewers, no buns or bread to be seen. The Safari skewer is crispy bacon-wrapped asparagus. Bengal Beef Skewer is drenched in sweet Zulu sauce likened to a citrus barbeque sauce. The hot and spicy Banyan Beef skewer sauce is a mouthwatering mixture of soy sauce, peppers, and garlic salt. Put that sh*t on everything. I'd dip a shoe in that sauce and eat it. You’re welcome.
Bengal Beef Skewer: $5.49
Safari Skewer: $4.99
Banyan Beef Skewer: $5.49
1. Clam Chowder in a Sourdough Bread bowl
What better way to celebrate being in California than creamy clam chowder in a soft sourdough bread bowl? Even if you are a native, you should always celebrate living in California.
The restaurant is modeled after the historic Boudin Bakery in Fisherman’s Wharf of San Francisco. Complete with a sourdough factory tour where you can get a free sample at the end. I know some of you are thinking, “It’s not the same as the original Boudin." To that I say: you’re right. It’s better.
The bread is just as fresh, made right behind the serving counter. But the real Boudin soup is clam water with milk compared to Disneyland’s recipe. Either it’s crack or roux, the result is heaven. It’s thick and rich, embracing your taste buds while it grabs hold of your serotonin levels. Takes you for a ride through salty savory paradise. You scrape the interior of the bowl with your spoon to get the soft and chewy bread that soaked up the chowder. The sour tang of the sourdough packs a punch in every bite. You’ll want to savor this one for as long as it lasts. Or at least until it's time to get to your Fast Pass return.
Price: $11.49