Picky Eaters at Disney World
Got a picky eater in the family? Heading to Walt Disney World can feel like a culinary minefield when all they want is plain pasta and chicken nuggets—and your wallet isn’t thrilled about paying theme park prices for “just the fries, please.” Fear not! With a little planning (and some clever snack-packing), you can keep your picky eater happy and your budget intact. Here are ten tips to help you navigate mealtime magic for your selective snacker without breaking the bank. Bon appétit...or, you know, bon chicken nugget!
Instacart
I set up my Instacart order the day before we arrive at Walt Disney World, scheduling it to be delivered the morning of our check-in. If you are curious on how to do this, read my blog on How to Order Groceries to Your Disney Resort. Disney will hold the groceries at the front desk and deliver them to our room for a small fee—a super convenient service! Before ordering, be sure to check if your room has a refrigerator. I like to stock up on easy snacks my kids will actually eat, like string cheese, granola bars, Nutri-Grain bars, yogurt smoothies, bread, fruit, and, of course, Nutella. These make for perfect park snacks and save us a trip to the grocery store, especially if you have a picky eater in the family. And don’t worry, there are always Disney treats to fill in the gaps. I swear my kids have two stomachs—one for “real” food and another bottomless pit just for snacks!
Pack a cooler to Take to the Disney Parks
Disney allows guests to bring small coolers into the parks, up to 24″ by 15″ by 18″—perfect for stashing a packed lunch or dinner! If you have a picky eater, don’t hesitate to bring along your own food; it can make a huge difference when you’re trying to stick to a budget and avoid meal-time battles. Packing a meal ensures you always have exactly what your picky eater likes, from sandwiches and fruit to yogurt, string cheese, or even their favorite juice.
Not only will bringing your own food save you money (so you can spend a little extra on that Mickey-shaped treat!), but it also gives you flexibility with mealtime. You can enjoy a relaxing picnic anywhere in the parks without worrying about long lines, menus that may not have your kid’s go-to options, or the pressure to buy yet another pricey kids’ meal. My favorite spot is Magic Kingdom’s Hub Grass! Pro tip: use freezer packs to keep everything cool, and if you’re planning to bring something that needs to stay very cold, try using a frozen water bottle to keep it fresh (plus, you’ll have ice-cold water as it melts).
In the end, having a stocked cooler means you’re in control of meal options, timing, and your budget, making the day easier for both you and your picky eater!
Topolino’s Terrace
Skip the Fancy Plated Character Meals
I get it—character meals are a blast! But when it comes to budgeting and avoiding food waste, they might not be the best choice. These experiences can be quite pricey, and if you're okay with potentially watching $30 nuggets go uneaten, then go ahead and book it! Most character dining experiences charge for everyone at the table, whether they order food or not, since you’re paying for the overall experience as well as the meals.
On the other hand, Table Service restaurants offer a bit more flexibility. If someone doesn’t order a meal, you typically won’t be charged for them, and you can often split meals among the group. This is especially handy if you have a picky eater who might not want a full entrée. Plus, many Table Service spots will allow you to request substitutions for items your child won’t eat, and our go-to substitute is always FRENCH FRIES! While you can ask for alternatives at character meals, the selection is usually limited, making it more challenging to accommodate specific tastes. So, if you want to enjoy the magic without the hefty price tag or food waste, consider skipping the character dining and opting for a more flexible Table Service experience instead!
Buffets and Hotel Food Courts
Art of Animation Food Court
If you decide to indulge in a character meal or a Table Service restaurant, opting for a buffet can be a fantastic choice, especially if you have a picky eater in tow. Buffets offer a wide variety of options, giving your little one the chance to explore different foods without the pressure of committing to a single dish. They can sample a bit of everything—from mac and cheese to chicken tenders and even a selection of fresh veggies—ensuring there's something they'll enjoy. Plus, many buffets have made-to-order stations where kids can customize their meals, adding an extra layer of fun and personalization.
To make your dining experience even smoother, be sure to check the menu in advance using the My Disney Experience app. This handy tool allows you to scout out the offerings before you even set foot in the restaurant, helping you choose a dining spot that caters to your family’s tastes. Some of the more popular buffet options at Disney include:
Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary Resort: A fan favorite for its lively atmosphere and character interactions featuring Mickey and friends.
1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort: This buffet boasts a charming breakfast with Mary Poppins and friends, along with a delightful dinner featuring Cinderella and her royal court.
Boma – Flavors of Africa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge: Perfect for adventurous eaters, Boma offers a unique twist on the traditional buffet with a variety of African-inspired dishes alongside classic favorites.
Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom: Dine with Pooh and his friends while enjoying a buffet filled with American classics in a beautiful Victorian setting.
Cape May Café at Disney's Beach Club Resort: Known for its seafood buffet at dinner, it’s a hit for families looking to indulge in fresh, flavorful options.
In addition to the buffet options available throughout the parks, quick-service dining at Disney resorts is another excellent choice for picky eaters. These locations typically offer a variety of options, including familiar favorites like chicken nuggets, pizza, and burgers, ensuring there's something to please even the most selective palate. Many quick-service spots also have a range of snacks, fresh fruit, and even grab-and-go items that can help round out your meals. Whether you need a quick breakfast to fuel up for a day of adventure or a late-night snack after a long day in the parks, these eateries provide the convenience of dining without the fuss. Plus, you can often find healthier options like yogurt, granola bars, and salads that can appeal to your picky eater while keeping your family’s dietary preferences in mind. With so many choices available at quick-service locations, you can easily find something that satisfies your child’s cravings without sacrificing convenience or variety!
You can always check the menu on your phone before deciding where to eat in your My Disney Experience app.
Tips for Navigating Meals for Picky Eaters at Disney
Research Menus Beforehand: Before your trip, take some time to explore the menus of the restaurants in the parks and resorts. This will help you identify eateries that offer familiar options your picky eater will enjoy. Many dining locations have their menus available on the My Disney Experience app, allowing you to plan ahead and make informed choices without the stress of last-minute decisions.
Look for Customization Options: Disney is known for its excellent guest service, and many dining establishments are happy to accommodate special requests. If your child has specific dietary preferences or aversions, don’t hesitate to ask! Whether it’s swapping out a side dish or omitting certain ingredients, most restaurants aim to ensure everyone has a delightful dining experience.
Pack Favorite Snacks: Bringing along a selection of your child's favorite snacks can be a lifesaver in the parks. Whether it’s granola bars, string cheese, or fruit cups, having these familiar foods on hand can help curb hunger and prevent meltdowns. Not only does this save you money, but it also gives your picky eater a sense of comfort in the midst of new experiences.
Explore Buffet-Style Restaurants: Buffets are a fantastic option for picky eaters since they provide a wide array of choices all in one place. At a buffet, your child can try small portions of different dishes, allowing them to explore new flavors while still having the security of familiar favorites. Plus, many buffets feature made-to-order stations where they can customize their meals, ensuring a fun dining experience.
Don’t Hesitate to Ask Staff for Ingredient Details: If you’re unsure about what’s in a dish or whether it will be suitable for your picky eater, just ask! Cast members are knowledgeable and eager to help. They can provide ingredient information, suggest alternatives, or guide you to items that are less likely to cause hesitation for your child.
Consider Character Dining Experiences: Character meals can be a magical experience for kids, and many offer diverse menus that include options for picky eaters. With fun interactions from beloved characters, your child might be more inclined to try new foods while enjoying the excitement of dining alongside their favorite Disney pals.
Stay Flexible and Open to Trying Small Portions: Encourage your picky eater to try new foods by introducing them to small portions of unfamiliar dishes. Sometimes, the idea of trying something new can be daunting, but when presented in a bite-sized format, it may seem more approachable. You might be surprised at what they’ll enjoy!
Utilize Snack Carts for Quick, Familiar Options: The parks are filled with snack carts offering quick bites like pretzels, popcorn, and fruit. These easy-to-find options can provide a quick pick-me-up between attractions and help keep hunger at bay without needing a full meal. Plus, they’re a fun way to indulge in classic Disney snacks!
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key, especially during a busy day at the parks. Bringing a reusable water bottle can help you save money on drinks and ensure that your child stays refreshed. You can refill it at water fountains or quick-service locations throughout the parks, making it easy to keep your family hydrated without breaking the bank.
Relax and Enjoy the Magical Atmosphere: Lastly, try to maintain a positive attitude around mealtimes. The magic of Disney is all about enjoying the experience, so if your picky eater sees you relaxed and happy, they may be more willing to try new things. Emphasize the fun and adventure of the trip, and remember that it’s okay if not every meal is a home run—there’s always tomorrow for new culinary experiences!
By keeping these tips in mind, you can help make your Disney dining experience enjoyable for everyone, including your picky eater. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll be able to navigate the parks’ culinary offerings while ensuring your family has a magical time!
And here's a little insider tip to keep the fun rolling: if you buy a refillable Disney popcorn bucket, you can enjoy $2 refills throughout the parks! It’s a super affordable treat that many picky eaters will happily devour. Plus, who can resist the allure of those iconic Mickey-shaped pretzels? They’re not just adorable—they’re delicious too! So, while you’re navigating the culinary maze of Disney, remember that sometimes, a little popcorn and a Mickey pretzel can go a long way in making mealtime a whole lot more fun. After all, if they can snack on those classic treats, you just might find that the magic of Disney helps even the pickiest eaters branch out a bit. Embrace the whimsy, share a giggle, and enjoy the delightful chaos that is dining at the happiest place on Earth!
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World? You're in the right place! At Well Hello Magic, we have tons of helpful resources to make your Disney vacation as magical and stress-free as possible. Whether you're looking for advice on the best time to visit Disney, tips on finding the perfect character meal, or learning how to skip the lines with Lightning Lane, we've got you covered.
As a therapist by trade and a mom of four, I use my expertise in understanding personalities to help you discover your "Disney Enneagram"—a fun way to tailor your Disney vacation planning to suit your family's needs or large group dynamics, ensuring everyone enjoys the magic in their own unique way. With my firsthand experience navigating Disney with babies and toddlers, I'll share all my best tips to make your trip smooth and fun for everyone. Plus, check out some of our family’s favorite rides at Magic Kingdom—there's something for everyone to enjoy!
Make sure to explore our blog for even more Disney planning guides and insider tips!
.
.
.
Thank you for visiting the Well Hello Magic Blog. If you have questions, please leave them in the comments, and I will be sure to answer them.
Planning a Disney vacation can be overwhelming, but you don't need to worry because we have got your back! Here are a few blogs to help you get organized!
Follow me on Instagram, YouTube and Check out my Podcast!
How to Use My Disney Experience: Your Hub For Your Disney Vacation
How to Use Standby Skipper: The App That Books Your Lighting Lanes
Disney Infants: Everything You Need to Know! : Children under 3 are FREE at Disney
Tips for Traveling with Family, Friends & Large Groups
What is Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass? : Learn to Skip The Lines at Dsiney
Everything You Need to Know about Strollers at Disney
What to do if you Get Sick at Disney
Baby Care Centers at Walt Disney World
The Differences between Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort
Who is the Mom behind Well Hello Magic?
I am so happy to be on this journey with you.
