The magical worlds of Disney are full of iconic snacks and delicious meals, and for mac and cheese lovers, the parks do not disappoint. From decadent, upscale dishes to quick, satisfying snacks, there is a cheesy option for everyone. Whether you are visiting Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, a fantastic mac and cheese is never far away.
Mac and Cheese at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World offers a huge variety of mac and cheese, from specialty kiosks to sit-down restaurants. Here’s where to find some of the best cheesy pasta in the Florida parks.
Animal Kingdom
- Eight Spoon Café: Located on Discovery Island, this walk-up kiosk is a prime destination for mac and cheese fans. In recent years, it has featured a variety of baked macaroni and cheese dishes, including options topped with pulled pork and buffalo chicken. Portions are generous and make for a great snack or light meal.
- Flame Tree Barbecue: Another favorite in Animal Kingdom, Flame Tree Barbecue offers a side of mac and cheese, which is often cited as one of the best quick-service options on property. It is available with entrees, and reviewers frequently praise its smoky flavor.
Magic Kingdom
- The Friar's Nook: This Fantasyland counter-service location specializes in loaded tater tots, including a popular mac and cheese version. It’s a great, shareable snack that combines two comfort food favorites.
Hollywood Studios
- Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater: For a unique dining experience, the Sci-Fi Dine-In offers an adult-sized mac and cheese. While the exact preparation can vary, it provides a grown-up take on the classic comfort dish in a nostalgic, drive-in movie setting.
Disney Springs
- Chef Art Smith's Homecomin': This Southern-inspired restaurant is a must-visit for mac and cheese enthusiasts. Its macaroni and cheese is known for its creamy, rich texture and has a loyal following among Disney guests.
- The Polite Pig: A quick-service barbecue spot, The Polite Pig serves a delectable mac and cheese with a smokey, breadcrumb-topped finish. It is available as a side but is a standout menu item in its own right.
Resorts and Fine Dining
- Jiko – The Cooking Place: Located in the Animal Kingdom Lodge, Jiko has served a unique Bobotie Mac & Cheese as a side dish for its entrees. It’s a fancier version with a spiced, African-inspired twist.
- Steakhouse 71: Found at Disney's Contemporary Resort, this restaurant has served a delicious mac and cheese that even picky kids approve of.
Mac and Cheese at Disneyland
While options may be fewer in number compared to the extensive Walt Disney World, the mac and cheese at Disneyland and California Adventure is equally memorable.
Cozy Cone Motel
- Cars Land (California Adventure): This themed counter-service spot serves the legendary Bacon Mac and Cheese Cone. This meal-in-a-cone features creamy mac and cheese mixed with bacon and served in a savory bread cone—perfect for eating on the go.
Comparing Disney's Mac and Cheese Options
| Location | Style | Toppings | Service Type | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Eight Spoon Café (AK) | Baked Macaroni | Pulled Pork, Buffalo Chicken | Kiosk / Quick Service | Satisfying snack or light meal |
| Flame Tree Barbecue (AK) | Side Mac | Standard, no extra toppings | Quick Service | BBQ meal side dish |
| The Friar's Nook (MK) | Loaded Tater Tots | Mac and Cheese, Bacon | Quick Service | Snack or small lunch |
| Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' (DS) | Southern-Style | Classic, rich and gooey | Table Service | Rich, classic comfort food |
| Cozy Cone Motel (CA) | Mac and Cheese Cone | Bacon | Quick Service | Unique, portable comfort food |
| The Polite Pig (DS) | BBQ-Inspired | Breadcrumbs | Quick Service | Smokey, traditional mac with a twist |
Conclusion
Yes, Disney has mac and cheese, and the options range from simple and classic to loaded and gourmet. Both Walt Disney World and Disneyland offer excellent choices, with highlights including Animal Kingdom's specialty kiosks and Chef Art Smith's Homecomin' at Disney Springs. The availability of diverse styles—from spicy buffalo chicken to smokey pulled pork or bacon in a bread cone—ensures that every fan of this iconic dish can find their perfect cheesy fix. To find specific recipes for making some of Disney's best mac and cheese at home, resources like Good Morning America have even featured official recipes released by Disney chefs. With a little planning, you can make sure your next Disney vacation is a deliciously cheesy one.
