10 best places to eat at Disney without a reservation

A big part of the Disney vacation experience is trying all of the delicious food scattered among the four parks. However, if you’re taking a last-minute trip to Orlando or plan on visiting during the busy season, you may find that many of the parks’ most popular restaurants book up months in advance. The good news is there are many top-notch places to dine reservation-free. Here’s a list of our favorite dining options that don’t require a call ahead.

Backlot Express at Hollywood Studios
Headed to Disney’s Hollywood Studios but forgot to make dinner reservations? The menu at Backlot Express features classic favorites like burgers and sandwiches, served with a Star Wars spin. Plus, this is a great restaurant option not far from the best rides (like Toy Story Midway Mania). Wondering what to eat? Don’t miss the sweet and savory Dark Side Chicken and Waffles.

Flickr CC: Jonathan

Plaza Restaurant at the Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom is arguably the most popular park in Disney. If you’re hungry after a full morning of exploring, the Plaza Restaurant is worth a visit. Here you can enjoy a delicious meal without a reservation, including sandwiches, burgers and salads. They also serve ice cream, which is from Main Street Ice Cream Parlor located right next door!

Flame Tree Barbecue at Animal Kingdom
For those who plan to adventure around Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Flame Tree Barbecue is another great spot to enjoy sans reservation. Menu favorites include a mix of barbecue platters, a fresh watermelon salad, and a smoky pulled pork sandwich. This is a casual, yummy, counter-service restaurant, which works perfectly for a quick stop between attractions.

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Yak and Yeti at Animal Kingdom
Another restaurant to check out while at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is Yak and Yeti. This restaurant serves a variety of Asian dishes, portions are a good size and you won’t have to worry about a reservation here. You’ll love the seared miso salmon, the kalbi steak and coconut shrimp dishes.

Flickr CC: Theme Park Tourist

Marrakesh at Epcot
Looking for a great place to eat in Epcot that doesn’t require you to call ahead for seating? We recommend enjoying Moroccan dishes at Marrakesh. In addition to tasting delicious food, guests can also enjoy belly-dancing and other traditional entertainment while taking in the beautiful decor.

Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen at the Magic Kingdom
If you’re spending the day at the Magic Kingdom and are in search of a flavorful and filling meal, visit Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen. This restaurant near Space Mountain only accepts same-day reservations, so you’ll likely be able to get a table, even without one. Here you can enjoy a mix of flavors with a menu that includes American, African, and Asian-inspired meals like curried vegetable stew and a Berber-spiced lamb chop.

Flickr CC: Theme Park Tourist

Electric Umbrella at Epcot
Also located in Epcot, the Electric Umbrella is one of Disney’s fast-food options. Here you can order a mix of quick, yummy meals, choosing from burgers, veggie-friendly flatbreads and salads. There’s truly something for just about everyone.

Captain’s Grille near Epcot
Located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Captain’s Grille is a restaurant that offers delicious seafood dishes. This spot has a more relaxed atmosphere, which is especially great if you’ve had a busy day. If you’re visiting during breakfast hours, enjoy an a la carte menu or a yummy breakfast buffet. Lunch and dinner menus are also available throughout the day. While seafood is the main find here, you can also enjoy meat options (like tagliatelle pasta with braised short ribs), as well as vegetarian fare.

Flickr CC: Lee

T-Rex Cafe at Disney Springs
If you’re planning to shop till you drop at Disney Springs, we have the perfect place for you to refuel and rest. A visit to the T-Rex Cafe is a must, especially if you’re with the kiddos. This is the perfect dining experience for dinosaur lovers. Both adults and children will be able to find something they love here, and there’s also tasty and unique adult-only cocktails, such as the Lava Flow and the Raptor Rita. Kids will enjoy the interactive and educational play areas, as well!

Trail’s End Restaurant at Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
A reservation isn’t required at Trail’s End Restaurant at Fort Wilderness, which offers a buffet for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is a great way to cater to picky tastes and try a mix of foods for the whole family. We think you’ll especially enjoy the breakfast buffet.

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Tagged: Disney, Florida, Orlando

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Natasha Gabrielle

Natasha is a freelance writer, blogger and traveler. After spending the last 2 years living and working in South Korea, she continues to travel the world and document her adventures at LiveLearnVenture.com.