As much as we love them, Disneyland isn’t just about the rides or parades – it’s also a snack-lover’s dream. From the iconic churro to famous sandwiches, rest assured, there are more options here than just your theme park basics.
If you haven’t been to Disneyland before (or in a while), you aren’t going to want to waste your time or appetite on food that isn’t worth it. And while we fully support anything Mickey-shaped, know that there’s an entire menu of must-try bites out there before you dive in.
And full disclosure, this post is dedicated to the snacks of Disneyland, not so much the restaurants. Truthfully, we aren’t the biggest fans of the sit-down spots here (though we’ll give credit where credit is due: Blue Bayou and Cafe Orleans are solid options and worth it for atmosphere alone).
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, savory, or you’re taking souvenir photos for the ‘Gram, this list will cover the good stuff (and in no particular order, mind you – they’re all #1 to us!).
Let’s dig in.
10. Black Caf Cold Brew (Docking Bay 7)
Who knew a little iced cold brew could be the makings for the best coffee concoction in the galaxy? This baby is topped with – wait for it – a Sweet Cream Cheese foam and chocolate puffs (we all know they’re Cocoa Puffs, Disney). Don’t look at us like that, we promise the foam is amazing and not weird. The only downside to this drink is that it’s a hike first thing in the morning to Galaxy’s Edge, but it’s worth it. Now, let’s get another one to go!
9. Mickey Beignets (Mint Julep Bar)
Remember what we said about appreciating the occasional Mickey-shaped thing? Yeah, this one takes the cake…er, the beignet. You get it. Whether you’re into the original or want to try a seasonal spin, they’re warm, pillowy, topped with powdered sugar, and served fresh in either a 3 or 6 pack. This classic sweet treat is one to write home about. Or stuff in your pockets to take there, we won’t judge either way.
8. Monte Cristo Sandwich (Cafe Orleans)
Deep-fried sandwiches? Say less. The famous Monte Cristo comes in the classic turkey and ham combination, or a melty, cheesy one for the Vegetarians in your group. Both are served with a side of thin, crispy, and perfectly seasoned pomme frites. It’s rich and heavy, and totally splittable—if you want to. Bonus: Try the famous (NA) Mint Julep for the full Cafe Orleans experience!
Note: This not-so-little bite comes from Cafe Orleans so you will need a reservation, but that’s not typically an issue.
7. Fried Chicken (Plaza Inn)
Ok, we’re a little biased, but one of us is from Kentucky, so this is definitely not “the best fried chicken ever.” But it is tasty and thus worthy of our list, here. Served generously with creamy mashed potatoes, veggies, and a biscuit, this is another easily splittable dish if you aren’t going full send. And the dish is on the greasy side, so be prepared. It’s comfort food with a side of napkins.
6. Beef Birria Sandwich (Jolly Holiday Bakery)
While we’re on the topic of sandwiches, this seasonal food item has become a staple and a Disneyland cult favorite when it’s available. We know, we know – we hate to tag something that isn’t available all the time, but this toasted sourdough sandwich dripping with tender beef, ooey-gooey cheese, and tangy sauce is a “snack” that hits the spot.
For the whole Jolly Holiday experience, you’ll definitely want to grab a dessert here, too. The Matterhorn Macaroon is the long-standing favorite for many, but we love to grab a seasonally rotating treat.
5. Jalapeño Cheese Pretzels (Refreshment Corner)
A pretzel stuffed with jalapeño cheese? What more could you want? It’s warm, soft, and oozing a creamy cheese with just a little bit of a kick. You might spot this pretzel at a handful of carts or kiosks around the park, but our favorite spot to get it is right at the end of Main Street. Grab one, find a shady bench, and enjoy your savory treat while people-watching. You can thank us later.
4. Bread Bowls (throughout park)
As temps cool and we start to crave cozy, savory snacks, we find ourselves gravitating toward the hearty and delicious bread bowls found scattered around the Disneyland Resort. At the OG park, you’ll find a rotating lineup of flavors like stews and seasonal specials, but we’re more partial to the classic clam chowder and ultra-comforting mac & cheese versions. You can snag these at multiple spots, but they’re almost always available at Harbour Galley and Refreshment Corner. Hearty? Yes. Regrets? Never.
3. Garlic Cheesy Pretzel Bread (Maurice’s Treats)
This unassuming little kiosk might not look like a must-stop, but Maurice’s Treats is quietly serving up one of the park’s best savory snacks. And listen to us carefully: you want this. The menu rotates from time to time, but if you spot the Garlic Cheesy Pretzel bread, don’t hesitate. Warm, buttery, and stuffed with melty cheese and garlicky goodness, it’s the type of snack that has you booking your return trip.
Sorry, we’re missing a photo, but these just don’t last long enough to document. Please don’t judge us.
2. Dole Whips (Tropical Hideaway)
Dole Whip. The classic. The original. The legendary. Don’t let its status as a Disney snack icon fool you into thinking it’s overrated, even though this pineapple soft serve is a rite of passage at Disneyland. Light, refreshing, and just the right amount of tangy sweetness, it transports you with one bite into full vacay-mode.
If pineapple isn’t your thing, there are lots of different flavors. Actually, we often prefer to do a swirl and combine two flavors. And if soft serve isn’t cutting it, you could also get it as a float. Honestly, if you don’t love any of it…we’re not sure we can be friends.
Note: The most famous option is the Chile-Mango Whip (pictured). It’s almost a little too savory tasting for us, but it’s a fun one to try.
1. Bengal Barbecue Skewers (Bengal Barbecue)
Smoky, saucy, and popular for a reason, these skewers are definitely an unconventional theme park food option. This little spot cranks out grilled meat and veggie skewers that are way more flavorful and filling than they have any right to be. The Bengal Beef (with sweet sauce) is our favorite, but there are other options ranging from niche to cult favorites. It’s the perfect grab-and-go snack, but you could stack a few together for a bigger meal. Even if you queue for the smells alone, it’s worth a visit!
Bonus…The Actual #1 Food at Disneyland
We made this list and then almost left it out…yikes.
If you haven’t heard yet, the best thing to eat during your Disneyland trip?
A churro. Disneyland (unlike its Orlando sister) has perfected the churro. And not only that—there are always seasonal and rotating flavors, and they are GOOD. Often paired with a dipping sauce, it just can’t be beat. See one of our favorites below—a Christmas classic cinnamon sugar churro paired with “hot chocolate” dipping sauce. Too cute, and friggin’ delicious.
Churros can be filling, so plan accordingly!
Our Snack Strategy
With so many options (and limited stomach space), it helps to have a loose food strategy before you hit the park. Don’t take the fun out of it and plan every bite, but having a general approach can save you from food regret.
Our usual M.O.? Grab one good quick-service meal – like fried chicken at Plaza Inn or a sandwich from Jolly Holiday – then let the rest of the day revolve around snacks, both sweet and savory. Maybe we’ll kick things off with a churro or breakfast chimichanga, a hearty bread bowl later when temps start to cool off, then a Dole Whip before a nighttime spin on Jungle Cruise.
No matter how you choose to snack your way through Disneyland, you can’t lose. Have fun out there!