Hiya, Tara, and welcome to planDisney! It sounds like you're enjoying your vacation at the Most Magical Place on Earth - I hope you're having the best time!
Tara, there's nothing like relaxing around a table full of delicious food. The
Disney Dining Plan includes one quick-service meal per night of stay, so I'll share with you some of my favorites that have a great ambiance and delicious food, in hopes you'll continue to find value in your dining plan. If waiting in line to order your food is part of what you dislike, try the
Mobile Food & Beverage Order feature of the My Disney Experience Mobile App. Many quick-service dining locations offer this option, which allows you to place your order in advance for a pick-up time of your choosing. When you are nearby, you will let the restaurant know to begin preparing your food. Then, you'll pick it up at the designated area and take it to your table.
The Polite Pig at Disney Springs is a must-visit for my family, even when we aren't using a dining plan meal. The portion sizes are generous, and the food is absolutely delicious. Add a cocktail to that, and you're set. It's a great value for your quick service meal. What's unique about this restaurant is that, while you do order at the counter, you'll have a dedicated server who will deliver your food and any drink refills to your table. It's the closest thing to table service that I've found. Arrive as soon as they open for the shortest line, and be prepared to have leftovers.
Satu’li Canteen at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park offers Mobile Food & Beverage Ordering, as well as ample indoor and outdoor covered seating. Unique, fresh food options paired with an alcoholic beverage make this another good value. The Chimichurri Beef and Chili-Garlic Shrimp rivals many table service meals!
A great lunchtime option is
La Cantina de San Angel, located along the waterfront in the Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT. Steps away, you'll find La Hacienda de San Angel, a table service restaurant where you can typically go inside to enjoy your quick-service meal. Enjoy the air conditioning, ample seating, and beautiful views until they open for dinner service.
In Magic Kingdom Park,
Columbia Harbor House is home to New England-inspired dishes and offers lots of indoor seating. Head upstairs and find a table near a window for a unique view of the park.
I'll conclude with
Roaring Fork, which is found at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. It's a short boat ride away from Magic Kingdom Park. I recommend taking your meal to an area where you can truly enjoy the ambiance of this majestic Resort. There's a delightful lounge area on the boat dock where you can relax and dine. Stick around here in the evening to watch the Electrical Water Pageant and view the Happily Ever After fireworks from the water's edge.
Tara, I realize that my suggestions are not the same as the table service dining locations that you and I both love. I hope that you're able to find some delicious food and have great experiences at a quick-service restaurant that will help you continue to embrace the Disney Dining Plan. Please stop by planDisney with any other questions - you have a friend in me!
Bon appetit!
Jennifer