Although I usually travel to Walt Disney World for rides and attractions, food is always a big part of my family vacation. Disney’s Animal Kingdom restaurants are my favorites among the theme parks, thanks to the diverse cuisine and unique dining experiences. Here are some of the best Animal Kingdom restaurants, for your next family Walt Disney World vacation.
Keep in mind, that like the restaurants throughout Walt Disney World, the table service Animal Kingdom restaurants accept Advance Dining Reservations. In some cases, these may be required, especially during the busiest times at Disney parks. Currently, you can make your advanced dining reservations 60 days in advance of your trip.
You’ll need valid park admission to dine in a park, as well as a park reservation (unless you are park hopping and have a different park reservation for your first park). So you’ll want to be strategic about where you plan to spend the day. Keep in mind that the park reservation system will be changing in the new year.
If you choose to eat at one of the quick-service restaurants or at the food carts, mobile ordering may be offered. This can be a great way to save time.
To place a mobile order, simply open the My Disney Experience app and place your order at the restaurant. Then, proceed to the mobile order area of the restaurant and get your food! You’ll be surprised at how much time you can save with mobile ordering.
I am a former member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel and have been on some complimentary press trips at Walt Disney World, but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links. A purchase through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no additional cost to you.
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The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants
Table Service Restaurants at Animal Kingdom
Rainforest Cafe
This popular, family-friendly restaurant chain has one of its two Walt Disney World locations at the main entrance of Animal Kingdom (the other is in Disney Springs). It offers its standard menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are lots of different types of food on the menu, so it will likely appeal to your whole family.
While the Disney Dining Plan is not currently offered, it was not accepted at the Rainforest Cafe. This restaurant is right at the main entrance, so you won’t need a valid theme park ticket to dine there.
Tiffins Restaurant
This signature restaurant is one of the newest offerings at Animal Kingdom. It’s perfect for a special signature dining experience – the food is absolutely delicious. It’s located on Discovery Island, right by the entrance of Pandora World of Avatar. It’s one of the higher-end dining options at Animal Kingdom
The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner. Unique menu items include the Tamarind-braised Short Rib and Lobster Mac and Cheese – don’t miss the bread service appetizer. There is a kids’ menu, which includes things like beef tacos and chicken breasts.
Tiffins is also home to the Nomad Lounge. In addition to specialty cocktails and drinks, you can get small plates including the Tiffins bread service, charcuterie, and poutine. Visiting the Nomad Lounge can be a great way to try some of the delicious flavors without the expense of Tiffins.
Tiffins is definitely one of the best restaurants in Animal Kingdom (if not THE best). It’s one of my favorite places to eat at the parks and is perfect for when you are ready to take a break. It is more expensive than some of the other table service restaurants, so keep that in mind before booking.
Yak and Yeti
Yak & Yeti, located in the Asia part of the park, includes a table service restaurant as well as local food cafes that offer counter service. It’s open for lunch and dinner and offers a Pan Asian-inspired menu. There’s also a kid’s menu.
Tusker House
The only character dining at Animal Kingdom is at Tusker House restaurant, which offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It’s hosted by Donald Duck and friends, who are all dressed in their best safari gear.
If you have little kids, I definitely recommend visiting Tusker House. The food includes some African-inspired dishes, as well as standard American fare. Be sure to try the popular jungle juice, a blend of passion fruit, orange, and guava juices.
Quick Service Restaurants at Animal Kingdom
Satu’li Canteen
Satu’li Canteen opened as part of Pandora and rapidly became one of my favorite quick-service restaurants at Walt Disney World. It’s very popular, so arrive early to ensure seating availability.
Satu’li offers delicious, healthy cuisine. My favorite entree is the Chopped Wood-Grilled Chicken Bowl. There are also delicious desserts. It’s a great place to relax and have lunch before heading back out for more adventure. There are both indoor and outdoor seats.
Flame Tree Barbecue
Another of my favorite quick-service restaurants is Flame Tree Barbecue. This restaurant, located on Discovery Island, has a large outdoor seating area, with plenty of seats in the shade.
As you’d expect, you’ll find a variety of bbq specialties on the menu, including ribs, pulled pork, chicken, and mac and cheese. Entrees are pretty big, so bring your appetite. In my opinion, it’s one of the best quick service locations at all of the Walt Disney World theme parks – both for taste and value.
Harambe Market
For those groups with diverse tastes, Harambe Market can be a good option. Because there are four separate walk-up areas, there’s something for everyone here. Menu items include gyros, sausages, and shave ice.
The seating is covered, so you’ll be able to stay out of the sun during your lunch or dinner.
Restaurantosaurus
Restaurantosaurus, located in DinoLand USA, offers lunch and dinner. It’s a bit tucked away, with a pretty standard menu, so it can be a great choice for families with kids who may have more picky tastes.
On the menu, you’ll find burgers, chicken, and salads. There is both indoor and outdoor seating at the restaurant.
Pizzafari
In the mood for pizza? Pizzafari, located in the Discovery Island area of the park offers a variety of items including salads, pizza, and pasta. That can be a quick way and a great option to grab lunch before riding more rides. It’s another great option for picky eaters.
Snacks and Other Food at Animal Kingdom
Quick bites are available throughout the park. Here are a few of the best options – but there are plenty of other fantastic options that are not listed here.
Dino-Bite Snacks
Looking for a quick refreshing snack during your visit to Animal Kingdom? Stop by Dino-Bite snacks for ice cream cones, ice cream sandwiches, and ice cream sundaes.
Pongu Pongu
This small booth outside of Avatar Flight of Passage offers snacks (including a delicious Pineapple Cream Cheese Spring Roll), as well as alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Dino Diner
Stop by the Dino Diner in DinoLand USA for a quick bite to eat. This trailer offers hot dogs, chips and queso, corn chip pie, and churros. There’s no real seating, but you can eat your item on the go.
Tamu Tamu Refreshments
If you want to try one of those popular and delicious Dole Whips, you’ll need to stop by Tamu Tamu Refreshments. This food cart offers both alcoholic and non-alcoholic versions of this beloved treat.
Creature Comforts
Craving your daily Starbucks? Stop at Creature Comforts on Discovery Island for a full-service Starbucks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, if you are dining in the park, you need to have valid park tickets and a park reservation (if required). Dining reservations don’t cover these items.
It can vary based on your taste. My favorite quick-service restaurant is Flame Tree BBQ and my favorite table service is Tiffins. But overall, Animal Kingdom has some great restaurants.