You’ve had a long day, you’re all exhausted, the crowds are getting stressful, and all you want is a little comfort food.
If you’re at Walt Disney World craving something warm, hearty, and a little sinful, you’ll find plenty of options that fit the bill. The next time you’re craving comfort food for dinner, try these options.
1. Meatloaf at 50’s Prime Time Café, Hollywood Studios
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When you’re craving comfort food, the first place you should think of is 50s Prime Time Café. Not only is the menu comprised almost entirely of meals you’d expect mom to make, your waitress will make you feel right at home – by reminding you to wash your hands and keep your elbows off the table. What could feel more like a childhood meal than that? Cousin Ann’s Traditional Meatloaf features a mixture of ground beef and pork with a classic tomato glaze on top. Roasted garlic mashed potatoes and green beans on the side make this the ultimate in comfort food.
2. Chicken and Waffles at Fantasy Fare Food Truck, Downtown Disney
Though the Downtown Disney food truck court isn’t finished yet, you can still find the food trucks slated to appear there at various points throughout the area. For now you’ll have to chase this specialty down and hope it’s open while you’re in town, but soon this will become a staple that’s much easier to find. The sticky chicken and waffles served on the Fantasy Fare truck is the perfect pick when you want something savory and sweet all at once. The waffles are topped with a sweet Thai chile cream for a distinct flavor that makes this dish a must-try.
3. Pot Roast at Liberty Tree Tavern, Magic Kingdom
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The New England pot roast at Liberty Tree Tavern is heralded as the “Tavern Keeper’s Favorite.” This rich dish features braised beef in a Cabernet wine and mushroom sauce. Best of all, it comes with a side of mashed potatoes for extra comfort food goodness. This filling pick is great when you want a meat and potatoes meal that will really stick to your ribs.
4. Grilled Cheese and Tomato Bisque at Beaches and Cream, Disney’s Beach Club Resort
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Beaches and Cream is best known for its ice cream selection, but this is also the perfect place to get a gourmet grilled cheese. Enjoy the comforting flavors from childhood with just enough of a twist to make it appropriate for an adult. The sandwich features a blend of six cheeses for a bold rich taste that takes you beyond the simple slice of Kraft you may have known at home. Instead of a basic tomato soup, you’ll enjoy a rich tomato bisque – perfect for dipping your sandwich in.
5. Shrimp and Grits at Boatwright’s Dining Hall, Port Orleans Riverside
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Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans Riverside provides the appropriate New Orleans vibe and a menu packed with southern specialties. The shrimp and grits is the perfect choice for diners who have fond memories of a fresh steaming plate of this classic dish made back home by mama. The shrimp and grits served at Boatwright’s adds a bit of a gourmet touch with vegetables, Tasso ham, and fresh herbs alongside the sautéed shrimp. Creamy cheese grits create the perfect base for this dish.
6. Pulled Pork Sandwich at Flame Tree Barbecue, Animal Kingdom
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The mouthwatering aromas of Flame Tree Barbeque’s savory selection will reach you long before you actually spot this counter service restaurant. If you’re looking for a southern favorite, the pulled pork sandwich is sure to hit the spot. With a side of tangy coleslaw, this is sure to bring back images of down home barbeques. You’ll even dine outside, though Flame Tree has several covered pavilions available behind it so you don’t have to swelter in the sun.
7. Spaghetti at Tutto Italia Ristorante, Epcot World Showcase
Craving the carb-laden goodness of a plate of pasta? There’s no better option than Tutto Italia Ristorante, which transports you right to Italy for your decadent dinner. The spaghetti here is served in a pomodoro sauce with beef and veal meatballs. If you’re craving a different type of pasta, you’ll find Lasagna alla Bolognase, Gnocchetti, Fettuccine Campagnole, and Ravioli di Ricotta on the menu as well.
8. Fish and Chips at the Rose & Crown Pub, Epcot World Showcase
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Simple and satisfying, the fish and chips at the Rose & Crown Pub are sure to hit the spot if you’re craving a traditional British bite. The dish is so popular that it’s spawned several copycat recipes online, claiming to provide the same crispy coating you’ll find in the restaurant. If you’re in the mood for fish and chips but you don’t want to take the time for a table service meal, you can also enjoy this comforting dish at the Yorkshire County Fish Shop, where you’ll get your basket of fish and chips to enjoy on-the-go.
For a soothing bit of comfort food on your Disney vacation, pull up your chair for a hearty meal at one of these prime spots.
