Where To Eat At Disney’s Animal Kingdom When You Need A Break From Crowds



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Disney World is a vacation destination that has become even more popular in recent years. As more and more guests visit the parks, the crowds within Disney World continue to grow. While the crowd size is increasing, the guest experience remains positive. There are many ways to manage navigating crowds during Disney’s busiest seasons. Breaking for a meal is one of my favorite ways to escape the crowds. Animal Kingdom is a park will many dining options, with restaurants that will satisfy even the pickiest of guests. Whether you enjoy table-service meals, or quick-service, here are some places to eat at Animal Kingdom that offer a break from crowds.

Flame Tree Barbecue

If you want a quiet retreat outdoors then check out Flame Tree Barbecue in the Discovery Island section of the park. Flame Tree Barbecue has a peaceful outdoor seating area with covered awnings, fans, and waterfront views of Expedition Everest in the distance. This quick-service restaurant serves many barbecue options like pulled pork, chicken, and ribs. Many guests visit Flame Tree Barbecue again and again, and it is considered to be a fan favorite.

Flametree BBQ
Quiet Break From the Crowds. Photo: Disney

Rainforest Cafe

At Rainforest Cafe, you can immerse yourself in the full rainforest experience! Guests can escape the crowds here without compromising on leaving theming behind. At Rainforest Cafe, guests can enjoy a large menu full of anything they can think of including pasta dishes, burgers, salads, sandwiches, and more. Every 20 minutes a rainstorm occurs which brings the animatronic animals to life as sound effects roar. This restaurant is great for families with kids, or for those who enjoy lively and themed dining during their vacations.

Rainforest Cafe
Enjoy Rainforest Cafe. Photo: Disney

Tusker House

Located in the Africa section of the park, Tusker House features character dining with a unique buffet full of African, Indian, and Asian cuisine. Tusker House features Donald Duck, Mickey Mouse, and a few other pals as guests explore the culinary delights of the buffet. Reservations for this experience tend to book quickly, so be sure to book your advance dining reservations as soon as you are able to.

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Tusker House Food. Photo: Disney

Pizzafari

If you have picky eaters in your family, then Pizzafari is the best way to feed your entire crew easily. Located in Discovery Island, Pizzafari serves pepperoni pizza, cheese pizza, Caesar salads, creamy pesto pasta with chicken, and chicken sandwiches. This restaurant is great for those who have little ones, picky eaters, or for those who want something quick and simple for their family to enjoy.

Pizzafari
Pizzafari. Photo: Emily Murray.

Satu’li Canteen

If you’re looking for something more adventurous and unique then you can give Satu’li Canteen a try. Located in Pandora, this restaurant is a quick-service restaurant that brings the world of the avatar to you. Satu’li Canteen has unique entrees like the Ocean Moon Bowl, containing Blue Noodles, Tuna, Watermelon Radish, Pickled Daikon, Rainbow Carrots, Avocado, Cucumbers, and Red Cabbage with Miso and Sweet Soy Drizzle topped with Micro Cilantro. Guests can also love the Cheeseburger Steamed Pods which are bao buns filled with beef and other fixings making it taste exactly like a cheeseburger.

Satu'li Canteen Exterior
Satu’li Canteen Exterior. Photo: Disney.

Have you ever tried any of these restaurants? Which restaurant at Animal Kingdom do you enjoy visiting as an escape from the crowds? We want to hear from you in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Megan Woodard

Written by

Megan Woodard


Contributing Writer

Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.

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