“If you are what you eat, then you might as well eat something good.”

Ratatouille

Disney is a dream destination when it comes to food – at least, I know it is for me. It’s the first thing that comes to my mind when someone mentions Walt Disney World.

No one does it better than the chefs at Walt Disney World. Magic flows through their entire culinary team and they produce some truly unforgettable dining experiences for guests in and out of the parks, regardless of the meal, occasion, or dietary request.

That Disney vacation magical number is fast approaching for me: this Friday marks 180 days until I check into my Disney resort. That means it’s almost time to make my Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR’s). Sure, the parks are closed right now and things are a little up in the air, but I choose to assume my November trip for the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend will happen. It has to happen! Otherwise, this will be my fourth cancelled vacation in a row (and what are the odds of that??).

That being said, I’m going to think positive and share with you some of my favourite places throughout Walt Disney World to visit for some incredible gluten-free food. These three choices are definitely on my ADR checklist.

#1 – Garden View Tea Room

The Garden View Tea Room at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is our go-to dining room for a time out from the rush of FastPasses, and it’s tranquil environment is the perfect place to unwind and take a break from the crowds in the parks.

While food here isn’t included on any of the Disney Dining Plans, it’s a beautiful and elegant array of teas, sandwiches, and sweets served British style that every tea lover should try at least once.

And don’t think you’re left out of any of it because you need gluten-free options!

From delicate finger sandwiches, to monogram-topped bowls of berries, and beautiful sweet treats, you can have it all in the tea room. Here are a few photos of the incredible delicate treats I’ve enjoyed – all gluten-free. I usually order The Bedfordshire from the menu, which is a traditional afternoon tea experience with assorted finger sandwiches, scones, and choice of desserts. I’m drooling just thinking about their curry chicken salad sandwich….my favourite!

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For more on the Grand Floridian’s Garden View Tea Room, you can read this post: Garden View Tea Room – Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

#2 – Yak & Yeti Restaurant

Tucked away, in a busy corner of Disney’s Animal Kingdom park, below Expedition Everest, is an Asian delight that is always busy. The Yak & Yeti Restaurant is (in my humble opinion) not to be missed and boasts a menu that will please pretty much every taste and diet.

My personal favourite, is the Kobe beef burger. It’s served on a gluten-free bun with a side of fries and Asian slaw. So incredible! I have it EVERY TIME I visit and I never get tired of it. This is one reservation I’m definitely making for my solo trip.

#3 – Chef Mickey’s

Maybe it’s because I’m a chef, but Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is my #3 pick, and my #1 buffet restaurant on Disney property (it was hard to choose between this and 1900 Park Fare, but I’ll save that one for another post).

The first time we went to Walt Disney World, we were unable to get a reservation here, and I was horribly disappointed. Let’s just say I’ve made up for that loss over time, and I cannot tell you how many times I’ve eaten here. My favourite meal though, is breakfast.

Chef Mickey’s is a character dining experience, and the meal is served buffet style, but the chef will walk you through the line and tell you what’s safe. Even better, they’ll bring you your own dishes right to the table. Donuts, muffins, waffles…just be sure to ask your server.

How can you not have a magical day when it starts out with a pretty plate like this?

Or how about starting your meal with a cup of coffee and absolutely perfect dunkable donuts?

Chef Mickey’s restaurant is also my favourite go-to spot after I’ve finished a great run on a runDisney weekend. If you go, be sure to wear your finisher’s medal and show it off. After all, you earned that and a good meal!

Waiting for 180 Days with Fingers Crossed

Well, now I’m really excited for my 180 day date, and to make my reservations. I’ve got a couple of favourite spots on my list, plus a few different places I want to try (stay tuned for those reviews in future).

If you have a favourite gluten-free restaurant, meal, or snack at Walt Disney World, please share! There’s still time to change my list.