Disneyland, the magical kingdom, is renowned for its enchanting rides, captivating shows, and beloved characters. But let’s be honest, theme park food often gets a bad rap, conjuring images of greasy corn dogs and lackluster burgers. My past experience at Walt Disney World in Orlando did little to dispel this notion, leaving me underwhelmed and yearning for more culinary adventure. However, before a recent trip to Disneyland in California, I decided to consult a trusted source: my Disney-fanatic friend John K., whose boyfriend actually works for Disney.
John’s advice was concise and promising: “The Hungry Bear has a GREAT fried green tomato sandwich and blueberry pie. Paradise Garden Grill at California Adventure is supposed to be amazing too. Also, the skewers at Bengal BBQ in Adventureland are tasty.” Armed with this insider knowledge, I ventured into Disneyland with a renewed sense of gastronomic hope.
My Disneyland day began, as many do, with a thrilling (for some) ride. Despite my aversion to big drops, I braved Splash Mountain, facing my fears head-on.
Entrance to Adventureland at Disneyland Park, California
The near-death experience (slight exaggeration, perhaps!) on Splash Mountain certainly worked up an appetite. Following John’s recommendation, the next stop was Hungry Bear Restaurant, conveniently located right next to the ride.
Blogger experiencing Splash Mountain ride at Disneyland, expressing fear
The Amateur Gourmet blogger standing in front of Hungry Bear Restaurant at Disneyland
Peering at the menu, it was refreshing to see something beyond the typical theme park fare. Hungry Bear proudly featured a Fried Green Tomato Sandwich.
Menu options at Hungry Bear Restaurant in Disneyland Park
In a world of burgers and fries, Disneyland was pushing fried green tomatoes – a bold move! Topped with jicama mango slaw, remoulade, and havarti on a multigrain roll, it sounded surprisingly sophisticated and dare I say, healthy-ish. We both opted for the Fried Green Tomato Sandwich, with sweet potato fries for my companion and coleslaw for myself.
Delicious Fried Green Tomato Sandwich from Hungry Bear Restaurant, Disneyland
And the verdict? It was genuinely delicious! The sandwich was thoughtfully constructed, with the fried tomato providing a satisfying crunch, the slaw adding another layer of texture and acidity, and the remoulade and cheese tying it all together harmoniously. My only minor critique was that the multigrain roll was a tad too bready, but overall, it was a fantastic theme park sandwich. The coleslaw side was also notably tasty.
Side of creamy coleslaw served with the Fried Green Tomato Sandwich at Disneyland
Color me impressed, Disneyland! It seemed my friend John was right; the food scene here was a step above what I’d experienced before.
Of course, a trip to Disneyland wouldn’t be complete without indulging in some classic, less-than-healthy treats. Hopping over to Disney California Adventure with our park hopper passes, we made a beeline for a quintessential theme park snack: the churro.
Entrance to Disney California Adventure Park
Classic Disneyland churro, a popular snack at the park
Warm, cinnamon-sugar coated, and perfectly crisp, the Disneyland churro lived up to its reputation. Later, back in Disneyland Park, we grabbed some popcorn from a uniquely themed stand – the Rocketeer popcorn cart.
Rocketeer themed popcorn cart at Disneyland Park
As the day drew to a close, we braved Space Mountain (transformed into “Ghost Galaxy” for Halloween), another thrilling but slightly terrifying ride.
Blogger on Space Mountain ride at Disneyland, pretending to smile while scared
With the park closing, dinner options were limited to Downtown Disney. Fortunately, this area offered a surprisingly pleasant and civilized dining experience. We settled on Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria.
Exterior of Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria in Downtown Disney District
The atmosphere reminded me of the casual Italian chain restaurants I frequented growing up. We shared a Caesar salad, which was perfectly acceptable, if not groundbreaking.
Pizza chefs preparing pizzas at Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria
Caesar salad at Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria in Downtown Disney
For our main course, we chose a large BBQ chicken pizza. Initially, I had a moment of pizza purist regret, thinking we should have opted for something more traditionally Italian.
BBQ Chicken Pizza from Naples Ristorante e Pizzeria, Downtown Disney
But in the end, the BBQ chicken pizza, as Americanized as it was, was exactly what we wanted. It was satisfying, flavorful, and hit the spot after a long day at the park. It’s a testament to American culinary innovation – taking a classic dish and making it something new and delicious.
So, my Disneyland Food journey was a pleasant surprise. Thanks to insider tips and perhaps a genuine improvement in Disneyland’s culinary offerings, we ate much better than expected. West Coast Disney, you’ve earned my culinary respect!
