Walt Disney World Breakfasts of Champions

Whether it’s sit-down or on-the-go, Disney has plenty of excellent options for filling your tank before a day of hitting the parks.

It’s the most important meal of the day, especially when running around parks from rope drop to fireworks. So why is it that breakfast at Walt Disney World doesn’t get talked about nearly enough?

Sure, a sit-down morning meal can cut into park plans, but there are plenty of dishes around property that are worth their weight in queue times, or faster options if you need to fuel up as you power walk to the first Lightning Lane of the day.

We asked our own agents to pull from their extensive firsthand experience dining onsite, and have compiled our thoughts on the best breakfasts around Walt Disney World.

Admittedly, we don’t always remember to eat amidst the excitement of being back at WDW. When we do, it’s typical to find our agents with an on-the-go bite or swinging by a quick-service window for something to eat while we make our way to the next queue.

“Anyplace that serves Mickey waffles!” said Brandi. Luckily, Disney knows their audience and offers up Mickey waffles (plus the classic sides) across resort food courts and various quick-service windows throughout each of the parks.

For others, like Agents Lori and Jessica, Disney trips are an excellent time to turn it up a notch with comfort food that sticks with you, while fitting the “quick and easy” bill.

“Anywhere that has breakfast tots!” said Jessica. “Friar’s Nook and Woody’s Lunchbox both have bowls with tater tots, eggs, sausage gravy, and cheese. It’s fast, delicious, and keeps me full longer so I can hit as many rides as possible!”

If you don’t already live in the My Disney Experience app, be sure to maximize your time by ordering ahead. At places like Woody’s Lunchbox or Connections Café, mobile order can make the difference between a quick bite and a long ride wait.

Other on-the-move standouts were the Instagram-friendly cinnamon rolls at Gaston’s Tavern, or the pepperjack pretzel and Cheshire Cat Tail at Cheshire Café in the Magic Kingdom.

Of course, many guests aren’t in a rush, and simply want a morning boost without being tied to a reservation.  Agent Hayden and her family often start their day at EPCOT, making sure to stop into Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe at the Norway Pavilion.

“We pick up some pastries and Viking coffees and enjoy our breakfast with the beautiful views of the World Showcase Lagoon,” Hayden said. If you’ve seen any of our agent tips about taking time to sit and enjoy the atmosphere of the parks and resorts, you’ll see the value in a relaxing, people-watching breakfast from the comforts of a Disney park bench.

While most of our agents prefer a quick breakfast to a sit-down reservation, they agree that the right trip, occasion or restaurant can sway them into an ADR.

Topolino’s Terrace was a top choice for our agents who have dined at the Riviera Resort staple. One of the newer eateries on property, Topolino’s features an artistically-clad cast of Mickey and Minnie, as well as Donald and Daisy, dancing around and mingling with guests multiple times throughout the meal.

Agents Shelly, Jessica, Brandi and more all rave about the quality of the character interaction, which stands up to the excellent quality of the food. Stick to favorites like Mickey waffles and fruit, or level up with steak and eggs, quiche, or even avocado toast with smoked salmon.

The Crystal Palace is a favorite for both kids and adults – with charming characters from Winnie the Pooh and special treats like churro Mickey waffles.

Meanwhile, a classic that’s stood the test of time? Crystal Palace at the Magic Kingdom..

Agents Holly, Carol and Hayden all shouted out Crystal Palace for its charm, Winnie the Pooh cast of characters, and the churro Mickey waffles!
“It’s always a fun time for all ages. I don’t think guests realize that the characters have just as magical interactions with adults as they do with children,” said Hayden. “I’ve been going to the Crystal Palace for over a decade, and I enjoy the experience every time.”

Sometimes, it’s all about when you choose to book a table-service breakfast. Agent Darcy says she and her family like to wrap up their trip by booking a character meal on departure day.

“This is a fun way to end our vacation and see a few of our favorite characters too!” she said, sharing some of her favorites, Cape May Café, 1900 Park Fare and Topolino’s Terrace.

“Since these are all located within a resort, no park ticket is needed and it works out great for a last hurrah before heading home,” she said.
Additional breakfast hot spots our agents recommend include Tusker House, Ale and Compass, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall and Kona Café.

Even the best laid park-day plans have hiccups… like forgetting how hungry you might be after a 6a.m. Lightning Lane wake up and bus ride to 8a.m. rope drop.

Luckily, staying on property also means you have access to your resort’s grab-and-go options when you need something to calm your growling belly.

Many of our agents and clients can get by on adrenaline and Joffrey’s coffee. When you need something more substantial, do not underestimate the power of a quick pastry, granola bar or parfait.

“The Joffrey’s stand at Caribbean Beach by the Skyliner station is so convenient!” said Jessica. “One person can hold your spot in the Skyliner line, and the other can go grab coffee and pastries.”

Caribbean Beach is one of many – if not most – resorts with convenient grab-and-go stations in their main buildings, well-stocked with fresh and packaged items you can snack on all day long.

For Holly, it may just be worthwhile to book a room at Port Orleans French Quarter just to snag a bite of the famous Mickey beignets. The Scat Cat’s Club café serves up fresh, warm beignets to indulge in on your way to the parks, and is well-worth the trip even if you’re not staying at Port Orleans.

It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of a Walt Disney World vacation and overlook your choices for breakfast. It’s not typically the first ADR you think to book, and is often an afterthought during the morning rush.

Still, there are some not-so-hidden gems just waiting to serve you that may change your mind about starting the day with a full belly.