Do you research dining options as part of the Disney vacation preparation process? I have to admit to neglecting this aspect of vacation planning. With so many details to consider (what to wear, where to stay, all the baby gear to pack, etc), we usually just “swing it” when it comes to meals…which doesn’t always end well.
During our most recent trip to California Adventure, our family wandered in to the Fiddler, Fifer, & Practical Cafe on our way to Soarin’ Over California. We were weary and hot after a morning of attractions.
Our first impressions were positive. The delicatessen and cafe features wooden bench-style seats and open glass “bakery style” windows.
We were hoping to find a few sandwiches or salads that would suit our healthy appetites and line up with our daughters’ palettes.
Unfortunately, the fast-casual restaurant featured only four sandwiches – all heavy on the vinaigrette side of things:
- Roast Beef & Cheddar Sandwich with Horseradish Sauce ($9.69)
- Turkey Rueben with Sauerkraut ($9.69)
- Paneer & Roasted Vegetable Sandwich with a Spicy Tomato Sauce ($8.99)
- Salami Royale with an Olive Vinegar Sauce ($8.99; pictured)
Our three daughters (ages 6, 3, and 6 months), like many young children, were not thrilled by the sour sauce. Both my husband and I agreed that we wished that there had been more “traditional” sandwich options – perhaps a Turkey & Provolone Sandwich, a Grilled 4-Cheese Sandwich, and/or a Roast Beef and Cheddar Melt (minus the horseradish).
Note that several of the sandwiches are sold as a half-sandwich, which isn’t exactly filling after a hard day of play.
If you’re looking for a coffee, espresso, or smoothie, this place is a good stopping point. The Starbucks-branded beverages range from $2.69-$5.49, depending on your drink of choice. You can also ask for a tall glass of complimentary water.
If, however, you’re looking for a lunch spot with little ones, skip this dining venue in favor of something more kid-friendly and with more “fun factors.”
Where do you like to eat lunch in California Adventure? What restaurant inside the park offers the most filling entrees?
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Stephanie Sheaffer is an entrepreneur, writer, runner, and the mother of three little girls. In 2011, she traveled 20,000 miles around the USA with her family in a 300sqft RV. At the end of the trip, her 5-year-old said Disney World was her favorite stop! She now resides in Arizona and blogs at Metropolitan Mama. Follow her on Twitter @stephsday.
My new favorite dining spot in DCA is Paradise Garden Grill. There are three counter service restaurants together in one location offering a wide selection, lovely outdoor seating, and often live music. I usually order a skewer with a couple of the sauce options on the side. Here is a menu: http://allears.net/dlr/din/menu/men_grill.htm
My husband gets pasta at the adjoining restaurant.
Next time you are faced with weird sauces, don’t forget that you are at Disneyland! They will usually make changes for you.
My husband is very particular about what food he eats so planning meals through the day is definitely of importance when we go to Disney. He packs a great many items (one thing I LOVE about Disneyland is that they allow you to bring in food) but we do eat at least one meal in the park. One of his favorites is French Market because the portions are large and we can buy a few plates and then mix and match between the 5 of us so we all get a little something.