NEWS: Disney World Announces More Restaurant Re-openings

Fun animal murals and mosaics at Pizzafari Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park are the colorful backdrop to a delicious quick meal beginning August 2, 2021. Pizza rules in this jungle but you can also order a Chicken Parmesan Sandwich, Green and Grains Salad, and an adorable “Spaghetti and Meatball” Cupcake. Kick back with a refreshing Blue Lagoon with blue curaçao beverage syrup, lemonade, and gummy worms – also available with a glow cube and with or without rum!

RELATED ARTICLE: 5 Best Counter Service Restaurants in Magic Kingdom at Disney World

by Ryan Miller

When it comes to dining in the Magic Kingdom, there are plenty of options from fast-casual to fine dining. While the table service restaurants get all of the glory, the counter service restaurants can make for equally memorable dining experiences. Whether it’s a mid-day lunch break or settling down for dinner, each counter service restaurant offers a menu with something for everyone. If you’re looking for somewhere new to try or you’d love to try them all, we have put together a list of the 5 best counter service restaurants at the Magic Kingdom.

1 – Casey’s Corner

As one of the iconic locations along Main Street U.S.A., Casey’s Corner has been a delight to guests for years. While the menu isn’t extensive, the style and atmosphere immediately transport you to a baseball state of mind with the feeling that you’re heading off to the ballpark to catch a game and grab a bite to eat on the way there.

With the bright red and white pinstripes and the concession stand-style marquee overhead, you can feel the anticipation build as you head up to place your order. Apart from your standard Hot Dog, the menu also features chili-cheese dogs and all-beef hot dogs. One of the gems on the menu are the Corn Dog Nuggets, which bridge the gap between snack and meal – regardless, they’re delicious. And while they’re easy to share, you might just need to order your own when you become their newest fan.

2 – Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe

After undergoing a menu change, Pecos Bill in Frontierland now serves Tex-Mex dishes in the classic Old-West Saloon guests have come to know and love. The menu features fajita platters or rice bowls. You can also order a plate of Beef Nachos or get a classic cheeseburger.

Churros have also found a new home at Pecos Bill as the iconic snack is now a dessert option for all guests who are looking to satisfy their sweet tooth with this deliciously fried dough. There’s plenty of seating in this cozy, yet spacious restaurant. It feels like the outside has been brought inside with hanging lights and building facades lining the walls.

3 – Columbia Harbor House

Editor’s Note: During the phased reopening of Walt Disney World, Columbia Harbor House is scheduled to reopen on August 5, 2021. 

Over in Liberty Square, the Columbia Harbor House is a hidden gem when it comes to quick-service dining. It’s not flashy or too over the top. Instead, it’s a nautical-themed restaurant that’s quite spacious inside including a second floor filled with extra seating. The dark wood, mooring ropes, and even a captain’s wheel combine to make a relaxed atmosphere where you can rest, cool down, and enjoy your break during the day.

Starting off your meal with a cup of New England Clam Chowder would be enough for many guests, but beyond that, some of the unique entrées include a delicious Lobster Roll, Grilled Salmon with Couscous and the Lighthouse Sandwich, a fan-favorite mix of hummus, tomato and broccoli slaw on toasted multi-grain bread. Finish your meal off with a seasonal cobbler and you’re ready to head back out into the park to continue the excitement.

4 – Pinocchio Village Haus

Over in Fantasyland, you don’t want to miss Pinocchio Village Haus. Guests can enjoy Italian favorites like flatbread pizza and tiramisù. Other menu options include salads and chicken tenders. The dining room is a quaint cottage and you may even get of glimpse of “it’s a small world!”

5 – Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café

If everyone in your group is craving something different for lunch or dinner, Cosmic Ray’s in Tomorrowland offers a 3-sided counter with different options available on each side. From Angus Burgers and fries to pulled pork, rotisserie chicken, and Greek salads, there are lots to choose from at Cosmic Ray’s and a ton of seating for everyone. Between the counter and your seat is a topping bar, fully stocked with things you’d like to add to your meal, whether it be toppings for your burger or extras for your sandwich.

Once you’ve topped off your meal, head to the main dining area where you can take in a performance by Sonny Eclipse, an audio-animatronic alien who plays the Amazing Astro Organ and sings lounge-style songs that are out of this world.