Greetings Scott!
You are absolutely correct- food IS a big part of the Disney experience. In fact, my family begins our planning with identifying everyone's must-do restaurants. Since we recently had a family meeting to outline our dining plans (yes, we are THAT family!) I will share everyone's first choices.
Brian (the 50ish dad to the clan): 'Ohana. A never-ending stream of skewers of chicken, shrimp and steak brought to our table makes this my husbands number one pick
Me: The Flying Fish Cafe. Sitting on the picturesque boardwalk along Crescent Lake, this bustling venue never fails to wow me with its artisanal cheeses and signature potato-wrapped red snapper.
Alex (the 27 year old mom to the cutest grandson ever): 50's Primetime Café. Aunt Liz's Fried Chicken, Mom's Meatloaf, and miles of Formica make this a favorite of our whole family. But, remember- keep your elbows off the table or you could spend some time in the corner!
Jordan and Taylor (teenage girls that are often difficult to please): Kona Café. A true miracle, teenage sisters agree on something. This is Jordan's pick due to the amazing bread served before the meal. Taylor picks this gem due to what she describes as the "best sushi ever!"
Atticus (the cutest grandson ever): Chef Mickey's. Let's face it, for this preschooler, it is all about the Big Boss- Mickey Mouse! Mickey and the gang great you at your table as you enjoy an all-you-care-to-eat buffet. We never miss it.
I hope this helps you in your culinary adventure at the Walt Disney World Resort. One last suggestion- don't miss the carrot cake cookie which can be found at Sweet Spells in Disney's Hollywood Studios.
See ya real soon!
Anne