Better known for its iconic safaris, Yeti-spotting expeditions, and the floating mountains of Pandora, we find that Animal Kingdom is criminally underrated when it comes to food.
Yeah, it might be easy for Animal Kingdom to be a tiny bit overshadowed by EPCOT’s festivals and Magic Kingdom’s classic sweet snack line up.
But trust us, this park has a seriously impressive lineup of beverages and bites. Whether you’re craving a familiar staple or a more adventurous try, there is plenty of both to be had. Not to mention the range of sweet and savory items, making Animal Kingdom a hidden gem for foodies.
So let’s dig into some of the best snacks you don’t want to miss the next time you’re roaming the wilds of this amazing park!
Pongu Lumpia & Na’vi Sized Pretzel with Beer Cheese – Pongu Pongu
Combining sweet with savory, the Pongu Lumpia is a sweet “spring roll” stuffed with melty cream cheese and chunks of pineapple. Affordable and fun, don’t knock it til you’ve tried it. It’s a cult favorite.
If you’d rather stick with something more savory, we love the Na’vi Sized Pretzel (with beer cheese) paired with a green beer, of course. Grab a table outside of Satu’li Canteen and you’ve got the makings for a pretty great snack break.
Cheeseburger Pods (Bao Buns) – Satu’li Canteen
Objectively speaking, this is usually the #1 most popular snack at Animal Kingdom if you’re into such a thing. Loaded with ketchup, mustard, and pickles, it’s a true cheeseburger experience. Enjoy them as a snack, or you even have the option to make a meal out of them.
Baked Mac and Cheeses & Buffalo Chicken Chips – Eight Spoon Cafe
One of our personal favorite stops, you’ll find Baked Mac & Cheese dishes (from regular ol’ plain to topped with pulled pork), as well as our favorite Buffalo Chicken Chips. Maybe they aren’t the “greatest thing ever!”, but these savory options are an absolutely solid pick, and are a higher quality choice than some of the savory items at the other parks (lookin’ at you, Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios).
Seasoned Fries and Chicken Dumplings – Mr. Kamal’s
When you’re in the mood for a snack more in the realm of “theme park food,” fries are a good pick. And now you can get them seasoned! The dumplings are straightforward and tasty if you want something heavier (these are dim sum style—not Cracker Barrel ;))
The fries used to come with three different dipping sauces and were more fun then, as opposed to the one dipping sauce now. But it’s still a great savory snack if you’re strolling by.
Grilled Corn on the Cob – Harambe Fruit Market
You’ve got some Disney regulars and locals who are obsessed with the curry-spiced corn on the cob at this stand in Africa (note: you can get it without spices, but it’s more fun with the spices!). It is tasty, and we do recommend it, but personally, we don’t look forward to getting corn stuck in our teeth during our visit. And we sure aren’t bringing floss.
Dole Whip & Pineapple Treats – Tamu Tamu
While some of the items here are seasonal and will rotate, this is the spot for all things Dole Whip. From classic cups to sundaes to versions that are spiked with rum, there’s something for everyone to try. Plus, there is almost always a tasty rotating pineapple treat here, too (pineapple crisp…sundae…upside down cake…yes, please).
Cheese Fries with Pulled Pork – Flame Tree Barbecue
Flame Tree is most famous for its barbecue (mmm, the smell!) and big meals, but there are a few snack options here as well. The loaded cheese fries topped with pulled pork have been a longtime favorite, and there are often a few other fun, rotating seasonal snacks here, too (typically a savory and a sweet item).
Giant Mickey Cinnamon Roll – Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery
Located in Africa, right past Dawa Bar, Kusafiri is an almost-hidden little window “bakery” primarily known for its giant cinnamon rolls. While we’re also fans of the chocolate twist (zebra tail!) and Pistachio Honey Croissant, the other pastries are a little more processed and are often hit or miss. Stick with the classics and you’ll be good!
Kakigori – Caravan Road
The AK dupe of the Japanese shaved ice found in EPCOT, this fruity shaved ice comes in a few different flavors, with the option to top it with condensed milk (we recommend trying it!). Tasty and fun, it’s a good treat for all ages!
Egg Rolls and Mini Mango Pie – Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe
If you’re on a savory snack tour of the park, know that the Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe (re: the quick-service) also has snack-size versions of pot stickers, egg rolls, and fried rice that are relatively standard but convenient.
There is also a Mini Mango Pie that is a fun and delicious option if you’re in the mood for dessert.
Note: We know it’s confusing, but we’re referring to the counter-service Yak & Yeti here, not the sit-down restaurant that requires reservations.
Dole Whip Floats – Warung Outpost
Now, here’s where you’ll find even more Dole Whip float options if the options from #6 weren’t intriguing enough (or you’re just too far from Tamu Tamu in Africa and need a Dole Whip – stat!).
Rotating Desserts – Creature Comforts
Creature Comforts is Animal Kingdom’s in-park Starbucks, known by locals and regulars for its pretty fantastic sweet treat lineup. You’ll find your standard Starbucks treats here as well, but there are typically some seasonal options (like adorable animal-themed cupcakes) that are fun to check out if you have a sweet tooth!
Tiger Tail Chocolate Twist – Isle of Java
If the line at Creature Comfort is too long or you’d rather indulge in Joffrey’s coffee, Isle of Java is a quick-service coffee stand that also sells chocolate twists (the Tiger Tail) and a Colossal Cinnamon Roll. Add a Vietnamese Iced Coffee to that, and your morning caffeine fix is covered.
Churros and Bread Service – Nomad Lounge
While every other snack on this list is available to-go at a quick-service location, Nomad Lounge is the one sit-down we had to include because it offers some delicious “snacks” we consider must-tries. For one, the Tiffins Bread Service is incredible (they make their own red curry BREAD!!), as are the freshly baked churros and dipping sauces.
Put your name on the waitlist, grab a glass of rosé, and order some bread service. Then follow it up with churros (and maybe an air high-five from us).
Arepas, Tacos, and more – Smiling Crocodile
Last but not least, this quick stand rotates items but they are all typically “light meal” or “heavy snack” options that are the perfect level of savory and satisfying. Try the arepas, tacos, or really anything here that tickles your fancy.
Bon Apetit!
Animal Kingdom might not have been on your foodie radar before, but we hope it is now. Whether you’re in the mood for savory, sweet, or somewhere in between, there are an impressive number of snacks here for you to try.
From twists on the iconic Dole Whip to the inventive Cheeseburger Pods to the ambitious Grilled Corn on the Cob, there is something for everyone.
And for more tips on making the most of your Animal Kingdom visit, check out our must-do attractions and itineraries for planning a full day (or more!) in the park.