Disney Travel Tips from Mouseketrips
About the Column
Is it possible to have too many Disney tips? Well, yes, if they're from your crazy uncle Louie, but not if they're straight from the experts, the folks who plan perfect trips for others day-in, day-out: Disney travel agents! Keith Anderson, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and co-owner of Mouseketrips, has been doing that for years. He's learned a lot about Disney, especially how to save money on a Disney vacation without skimping on the frills or the thrills. Every week, in Disney Travel Tips from Mouseketrips, Keith will distill new Disney wisdom - just for you! Don't tell Uncle Louie...
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Quick Service Quickies
Keith Anderson finds the best counter cuisine at Disney World
From the Turkey Leg carts in the theme parks to Victoria and Albert's, a AAA Five Diamond restaurant in the Grand Floridian, Walt Disney World has a wide variety of dining options.
Most people, however, just want to grab something quick and get in line for the next ride.
The best place for that is at one of the many Quick Service restaurants located throughout the parks and resorts. The food is decent and so are the prices - though if you have any Disney Dining Plan, you won't be out-of-pocket at all since every dining plan covers counter meals.
If you're thinking that Quick Service often means hamburgers and fries, you're right, but better food is available if you know where to look. Here are three 'hidden gems' that serve fantastic food - and when paired with the Disney Dining Plan, serve up fantastic deals, too.
Anandapur Local Food Cafes (Animal Kingdom)
Also known as the Yak & Yeti Quick Service, Anandapur serves high quality Asian-inspired food from a few 'hidden' windows around the corner from the Kali River Rapids. The portions are large, the food is usually fresh, and there are plenty of tables outdoors (most of them in the shade). The food here is very similar to the food and portion size you'd get at the table-service Yak & Yeti but at one-third the cost.
Tangierine Cafe (EPCOT: Morocco Pavilion)
My favorite counter service restaurant, Tangierine serves Moroccan and Middle Eastern food. Think lamb. The food is freshly made on-site, served warm on your plate, and tasty as can be. There's plenty of seating and even some options for those who don't like lamb (the chicken is good, but the lamb is to die for). And if you happen to be eating while Mo'Rockin is playing, many of the seats have great views of the stage.
Wolfgang Puck Express (Downtown Disney)
Probably the closest you will come to a table service meal at a Quick Service restaurant, Wolfgang Puck Express serves made-to-order salads, pizzas, sandwiches, pasta, and other yummy dishes. The prices are high, considering that the Express is not located in a theme park, but if you're using a Quick Service credit from a dining plan, it doesn't really matter. Order up and find a table. The lines can get long on busy days, and there is often a shortage of tables, so be patient.
You now have no excuse to settle for a burger every day. There is good food available at all price levels at Disney World.
Now that you know about my hidden Quick Service games, what are yours?
While you're waiting for Keith's next Disney tip, why not ask him to plan your next Disney trip? Mouseketrips does nothing but Disney - and they're really good at it! Hook up with them at their website, through Twitter, or on Facebook.
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