Screaming at the top of your lungs as you flip upside down on California Screamin’ uses up a lot of energy. Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park do have tons of traditional theme-park fare, if that’s what your belly is craving, but if you want more than burgers and fries to refuel so you can party into the night, try some of these spots for good and hearty food.
Dining at Disneyland Park
Looking for counter service? The French Market Restaurant in New Orleans Square has a great jambalaya and some po-boy sandwiches (one with shrimp, one with sliced roast beef) that will make you feel you’re really on the Mississippi Delta.
Rancho del Zocalo, in Frontierland, has a selection of Mexican dishes including beef enchiladas and fish tacos with authentic flavours.
Thinking of table service? The Blue Bayou wins points for atmosphere – it’s inside the Pirates of the Caribbean ride – but the food is good, too, with hearty options such as rack of lamb and surf and turf (lobster with filet mignon). It’s also a cool, relaxing spot on a hot day.
Feeling more like a cowboy meal? The Big Thunder Ranch Restaurant serves your table “family-style” with all-you-can eat barbecued ribs and fried chicken (plus sides of coleslaw, corn on the cob, etc.). You won’t leave this meal hungry.
Dining at Disney California Adventure Park
Looking for counter service? Pacific Wharf Café serves hearty soups and chili in a fresh-baked sourdough bread bowl – or, if you’d prefer something cooler, try the San Francisco Shrimp Louie, a chilled shrimp salad that is also served in a bread bowl. (Other salads are also available.) You can actually watch the sourdough being made in the Boudin Bakery tour next door.
Flo’s V8 Café features classic diner comfort foods such as roast beef in gravy and pork with Coca-Cola sauce. Try to leave room for desserts – Flo’s pies and milkshakes are the best!
Thinking of table service? Cathay Circle kicks theme park dining up a notch with a menu that includes angus steaks, thick-cut pork chops and grilled shrimp served with inventive sauces and sides.
The Wine Country Trattoria is the place to enjoy some of the flavours of Italy including Lasagna Rustica and Roasted Vegetable Panini. Premium beers and a superfruit sangria really hit the spot after a few hours in the California sun.
If you’re willing to take a longer break for your meals by venturing just outside the parks, the Grand Californian Hotel (exit into the hotel from California Adventure) is a great option (check out the Storyteller’s Café and Napa Rose, both table service), and Downtown Disney offers you more choices, including Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen and the ESPN Zone.
By: Teresa Pitman
