I’ve eaten at every quick-service restaurant in the four Disney World parks, the resorts, and Disney Springs. That’s over a hundred and fifty dining spots!

Across those dining spots, I’ve tried hundreds of food items, and some were much better than others. But along the way, some food items and restaurants surprised me! Even though these spots aren’t exactly fan favorites, they’ve got menu items that I really love.

Pinocchio Village Haus

Starting off the list, I have a restaurant that fans love to hate: Pinocchio Village Haus. I know that most of the menu here is less-than-beloved, but I can’t hide it anymore… I’m OBSESSED with the Buffalo Chicken Flatbread! Loaded with chicken, ranch, a hint of buffalo spice, and cheese — what’s not to love?!

I find this to be the best of the flatbreads on the menu here and honestly worth a visit. When going to the parks solo, I like to order one of these bad boys and head upstairs to the balcony seating to get a few minutes in the peace, quiet, and air conditioning. Not a bad solo lunch date!

See Our Pinocchio Village Haus Review Here!

Connections Eatery

Okay, in a park full of interesting and fun cultural eats, Connections Eatery can get seriously overlooked at EPCOT. It’s the go-to spot for basic American fare, but there’s one dish that I think is a standout, and that’s the General Tso Chicken Salad. This is one of the better quick-service salads in Disney World, and it comes with a decent portion of chicken.

There’s a great mix of textures and flavors here, and this is my go-to meal for that mid-week vacation moment when you’re really craving a vegetable. This restaurant can get skipped in favor of dining in the World Showcase, but if you’re stopping by, this salad is my recommendation.

See the Connections Eatery Review Here!

Pizza al Taglio

Tucked away in the back of the Italy Pavilion at EPCOT is Pizza al Taglio, a little dining window that’s only open seasonally. You’ll likely be able to stop by during the busier travel seasons of the year, but the hours are hit-and-miss. However, if you can find it open, there’s some delicious pizza to be had!

The Pizza Pepperoni, in my personal opinion, is the best quick-service pizza in Disney World. The slices are thick and laden with chewy pepperonis with crispy edges. Cheesy, filling, and a great “snack around the world” stop to share.

Check Out Our Review of the Pizza Window Here!

Katsura Grill

This next one shocked and surprised even me when I tried it for the first time, and now I love to shout it from the rooftops. We often tell folks to skip Katsura Grill in the Japan Pavilion because many of their food items are overpriced and they underdeliver. But man, there’s just something spectacular about their Beef Udon!

I find myself keeping coming back whenever I am in the mood for something cozy and filling. The portion is big, and the flavors are rich and savory. Most of their noodle dishes here are pretty good, actually, so if you find yourself at this location, try ordering one of them instead of the sushi or chicken.

See Our Katsura Grill Review Here!

ABC Commissary

We’ve been singing the praises of ABC Commissary here at DFB ever since the restaurant got a major menu overhaul post-pandemic. But there’s one dish on the menu there that seems to fly under the radar, and I have ordered it time and time again. Say hello to the Shrimp Tacos!

Perhaps my favorite thing about this entree is the mix of textures with the chewy shrimp, soft mango salsa, and the crunchy onions. I also love the blend of savory and sweet flavors with the hint of spiciness from the sauce they put on top. All in all, this is a step above your traditional theme park fare, and not enough people are talking about it!

See Our Thoughts on ABC Commissary Here!

Backlot Express

Also nearby in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is Backlot Express. This restaurant gets raked over the COALS and is often thought of as one of the worst places to eat in the park. But when I want a basic (and pretty good) salad, I come here and order the Southwest Salad.

It’s topped with roasted corn and avocado, as well as a house-made avocado lime dressing, and that’s where they REALLY win me over (I’m a dressing girlie and you can win my heart easily if you have the right sauce). It’s not super groundbreaking, but salads can be very disappointing at Disney World’s quick-service restaurants, and this one hasn’t let me down yet.

Check Out Our Latest Backlot Express Review Here!

The Smiling Crocodile

Last but not least, I must shout from the peak of Expedition Everest about my favorite food item in all of Animal Kingdom, the Pulled Chicken Cheese Arepas at The Smiling Crocodile. This snack stand may have limited hours, but it’s 100% worth it to schedule a visit here to grab these for lunch.

The arepa is fluffy and lightly sweetened, and the chicken is juicy and plentiful. Add in the cheese and delicious sauce, and you have a recipe for absolute deliciousness. They’re served with a side of plantain chips. I’m really hoping they get a permanent menu spot when Tropical Americas opens!

See My Thoughts on BOTH the Arepa Flavors Here!

If you’re heading to Disney World soon and looking to have the most spectacular culinary time, it’s totally possible. We’ve dined at every restaurant on property (multiple times), and we’ve got years of experience tasting the snacks, entrees, and desserts on the menus. Check out the video below to see some of our picks for the best snacks to try!

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Are any of these items on your must-try list? Tell us in the comments!