On
Aug 7, 2011
Brooke from AL
Asked
Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.
Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.
“
What would you consider to be the top five QS dining experiences OUTSIDE of the 4 parks? We love exploring all of the resorts and everything WDW has to offer!”
While most visitors would agree that the best table service restaurants are located in the resorts, I think that some really great quick service dining is outside of the parks as well.
My family's number one quick service restaurant in Disney is without a doubt Wolfgang Puck Express, located in Downtown Disney. There are actually two, one in the Marketplace and one on the West Side, in the same building as the table service Wolfgang Puck Cafe.
Also in Downtown Disney on the West Side, I love Bongos Cuban Cafe. The main restaurant is table service, but there's a walk-up window as well for a quick service meal, and tables to dine outdoors.
You may have already read of my love for Roaring Fork in the Wilderness Lodge. We often feel that the deluxe resorts neglect their quick service spots because they have so many great table service options (I'm looking at you, Grand Floridian), but that is not the case here. Their roast beef and blue cheese sandwich is highly recommended!
Pepper Market at Coronado Springs resort has a very large selection of entrees to suit any taste, including fajitas, BBQ ribs, salads, sandwiches, pasta and more. This quick service restaurant is a bit different from most on property, in that you have a host that will seat you and get your drinks while you order your own food. After you dine, you pay for your meal, to which a gratuity will be added.
Finally, I would say Boardwalk To Go, at (where else?) the Boardwalk resort. I must admit that the food, while tasty, is nothing unusual or spectacular. But I include them on this list because you asked about 'experiences' and not just food. The Boardwalk area should definitely be experienced! In the evenings you'll find midway games and fun performers like sword swallowers, jugglers, and magicians. The atmosphere makes this a favorite spot for a fun evening outside the parks.
And thank you, Brooke, for your great question - this one was really fun to answer!