I think you’re going to find my list of the best counter service restaurants at Animal Kingdom downright delicious!
Sure, the park is filled with attractions that bring you through a wild African safari, challenge you to defeat a menacing Yeti, and ride on the back of a Banshee!
But believe it or not, these fantastical feats pale in comparison to the food found throughout the park!
Is this a surprise?!
Come on, ThemeParkHipster… you know that we are all about the grub here!
And based on the fact that you are reading this article, something tells me that you are too.
Now, there are currently over 30 hotspots to grab a bite at Animal Kingdom, according to the My Disney Experience App… and I’ve pretty much tried them all.
But with so much to do and see inside the park, I want to focus on the counter service restaurants at Animal Kingdom (also refer to as quick service) to help you get in, get out, and back to the fun!
And in case you’re wondering… all of the dining locations listed below are perfect for solo travel, as they provide plenty of readily available seating with a ton of fun Imagineering details to check out!
THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY DISCLOSURE FOR MORE INFO. Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.
1. Harambe Market
If you’ve never been to Harambe Market, you’re missing out!
Tucked away in the back right of Africa sits an open-air market, serving up hot and fresh African-inspired fare in a highly themed outdoor environment!
As the story goes, Harambe Market was constructed around an old colonial-era train depot.
That is why this counter service location showcases a distinct one-of-a-kind menu— because it was created by using produce and raw goods delivered daily by the local locomotive.
When it comes to theming, every square inch of Animal Kingdom could win an award.
But there is something special about the aesthetic and architectural quality of Harambe Market that makes it feel specifically authentic!
Exposed wires, handmade signage, and rope switchback lanes all help to set the stage for a very memorable dining experience.
Though it doesn’t have some of the additional trinkets that you may find at Tiffins or Yak & Yeti, the charm here is much more tangible and out there in the open… pun intended!
What to Eat at Harambe Market?
In addition to tasty ribs and a succulent chicken bowl, you will also find a Harambe Salad with chicken, hot link bowl with plant-based sausage, and an adorable Simba Cupcake inspired by The Lion King cub himself.
Now, there are four windows from which to choose, Kitamu Grill, Famous Sausages, Chef Mwanga’s, and Wanjohi Refreshments.
However, some of these serve the same thing. So, either pick the shortest line or whichever you feel is most Instaworthy!
- Price Range: $
- Top Dish: Harambe Salad with Chicken – Mediterranean-influenced Salad with Pepperoncini, Kalamata Olives, Cucumber, Tomato, and Feta served with Grilled Chicken with Greek-style Vinaigrette Dressing
Hipster Power Tip: While this is a Quick Service location, it does tend to get rather busy throughout peak hours. Hey, blame it on the tantalizing scents wafting from the kitchen! Make every minute at the park count by timing your meals according to crowd levels.
2. Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes
Found in Asia, Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes present a Counter Service menu that seamlessly blends the bountiful flavors of China, India and Nepal.
Similar to Flame Tree BBQ and Harambe Market, Yak & Yeti showcases roomy outdoor seating with a plethora of Disney details to go around, including a stunning water feature!
What to Eat at Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes?
The menu is reminiscent of a Panda Express, featuring chicken and beef bowls, egg rolls, and fried rice.
Though the selection may be a bit predictable, it certainly is yummy!
- Price: $
- Top Dish: Honey Sesame Chicken – Tempura Chicken, Carrots, Snap Peas, Honey Sauce and White Rice
Hipster Power Tip: If you like to start your park days bright and early, head to Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes for Breakfast!
3. Flame Tree Barbecue
Flame Tree BBQ is positioned in Discovery Island, offering guests an opportunity to enjoy a fine feast while being surrounded by tropical foliage, exotic sculptures, and vibrant décor, including boho-inspired lanterns, ironwork chairs, and more.
Heck, it even presents a stunning water-front view of Expedition Everest!
While all this vibrant theming may seem like a lot to take in, we assure you that Flame Tree BBQ is one of the most relaxing (and shady) places to grab a bite on site! And while I’m on the subject…
What to Eat at Flame Tree Barbecue?
Enjoy an assortment of lip-smacking smokehouse meat and chicken dinners, served with a heaping side of coleslaw and baked beans… you know, just in case you had a little extra room to spare!
Oh, and if you can’t get enough of that Flame Tree BBQ Sauce, you can find a giant pump full on the condiment islands located within the restaurant. So, slather away!
Though the menu is a bit simplistic, it is the perfect place to share a meal because these portions are HUGE!
And not only that, they also feature a Spice Rub and Flame Tree BBQ Sauce exclusive to this location!
- Price Range: $
- Top Dish: St. Louis Rib Dinner – St. Louis Ribs served with Beans and Coleslaw
Hipster Power Tip: A beautiful cornucopia of lively music, wonderful aromas, and awe-inspiring sights await. So, be sure to grab a good seat and stay a while!
4. Restaurantosaurus
Dine in a dino-themed dorm, located in… where else? DinoLand U.S.A.
If you and your family love dinosaurs, this is a must-do!
What to Eat at Restaurantosaurus?
The menu is pretty basic, serving up standard burger and nuggets. But the atmosphere is fun, filled with little dino-friendly tchotchkes.
Not to mention, the service is some of the quickest you will find at the park!
- Price Range: $
- Top Dish: 1/3 lb Angus Bacon Cheeseburger – 1/3 pound Angus Bacon Cheeseburger with Lettuce and Tomato served with French Fries
Hipster Power Tip: Don’t skip over the Safari Amber draft beer!
5. Satu’li Canteen
Enter the Valley of Mo’ara and discover the World of Avatar!
Once deep inside and through the mounds of bioluminescent foliage and mystical floating mountains, you’ll uncover the one and only… Satu’li Canteen!
Here, you are invited to indulge in the art and culture of the Na’vi while dining inside a former RDA mess hall, now owned and operated by Alpha Centauri Expeditions (ACE).
This unique and understated Disney counter service restaurant provides a fast yet casual dining experience that will be sure to please the palate and fuel you for your next big adventure!
ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.
What to Eat at Satu’li Canteen
When it comes to the menu, get ready to pack your tastebuds with highflying flavor! Satu’li Canteen offers an array of international-inspired customizable bowls comprised of Pandora’s natural abundance.
Truly, there is nothing that compares to these delicious pairings of flavors presented in each bowl; tender juicy meat, tangy chimichurri, pepper spice, and much more!
All we can say is… you’re sure to be craving these on the plane ride home!
Y’all, I’m not even playing with you. Satu’li Canteen may be my favorite quick service location in ALL of Walt Disney World.
- Price Range: $
- Top Dish: Slow-Roasted Sliced Grilled Beef Bowl – Slow-Roasted Sliced Grilled Beef marinated in a blend of Garlic, Herbs, Red Pepper Spice, and Red Wine Vinegar topped with Crunchy Vegetable Slaw and Boba Balls served with your choice of Base and Sauce.
Hipster Power Tip: Try everything on the menu! No, really… every time you visit Satu’li Canteen, try something new. Soon you will find… each bite is better than the last!
What to Know Before You Go to Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Now that you know where to find some of the best food in Animal Kingdom, let’s go through a few of the most commonly asked questions.
Where Can I Eat Counter Service at Animal Kingdom?
There are a ton of Quick Service restaurants from which to choose at Animal Kingdom! Here are a list of 6 that are the most popular:
- Flame Tree Barbecue
- Harambe Market
- Satu’li Canteen
- Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes
- Pizzafari
- Creature Comforts
What Should You Not Miss At Animal Kingdom?
Animal Kingdom is one of the most detailed parks in all of Walt Disney World. However, a few specific attractions do stand out from the rest, such as:
- Celebration of the Festival of the Lion King
- Kilimanjaro Safaris
- Avatar Flight of Passage
Are you planning a Disney vacation soon? Read the Disney World Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!
What Quick Service Restaurants are Open At Animal Kingdom?
Below are the current dining options open for counter service:
- Anandapur Ice Cream Truck
- Creature Comforts
- Dawa Bar
- Dino-Bites Snacks
- Dino Diner
- Drinkwallah
- Eight Spoon Cafe
- Flame Tree Barbecue
- Harambe Fruit Market
- Isle of Java
- Kusafiri Coffee Shop & Bakery
- Mahindi
- Pizzafari
- Pongu Pongu
- Restaurantosaurus
- Tamu Tamu Refreshments
- Tera Treats
- Thirsty River Bar
- Trek Snacks
- Trilo-Bites
- Warung Outpost
- Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes
- Caravan Road
- Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages
ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.
Is Yak & Yeti A Counter Service?
The traditional Yak & Yeti Restaurant is not a Counter Service location. However, the Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes is a Quick Service alternative, offering very similar fare as the sit down restaurant.
My Final Thoughts for Choosing the Best Counter Service Location at Animal Kingdom
Well ThemeParkHipster, I hope my list of the to quick service restaurants at Animal Kingdom provided a helpful snack of information for your next journey into the jungle!
Hopefully you’ll walk away with a better idea of where to go for solid theming, food, and fun so you can make an informed decision on your next trip to Animal Kingdom!
OH – and one last thing before I go – be sure to list your FAVORITE Counter Service at Animal Kingdom in the comments below before you leave this page – because variety is the spice of life and this park offers a ton a great options to chew on!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
About the Author
Ted Wioncek III is a professional Show Director, who specializes in developing highly themed experiences with immersive live entertainment. His work has garnered him a reputation as a “master in storytelling.”
In addition, he is also a Walt Disney World Annual Passholdin’-D23 lovin’-DVC card carryin’-theme park enthusiast, specializing in theatrical review, food critique, and double-blind Dole Whip taste testing. Ted lives in sunny Florida with his beautiful wife, daughter, and their adorable rescue beagle, affectionately named, Professor Indiana Bones.
(Original Article Date: November 1, 2021/Updated by Editor on July 8, 2024)