*DIS Contributors review meals, resort stays, and entertainment that they have paid for during their own vacations. They only utilize discounts and offers if they are available to the general public, such as annual passholder discounts, Tables in Wonderland, or DVC membership discounts. They receive no additional compensation for dining experiences or events, so that they may give their honest opinions about price and value.
One goal I had on my recent Walt Disney World vacation was to try some new snacks, and, after light research, found that options abounded. With a love of Alice in Wonderland, the Cheshire Café was a sensible choice. The Cheshire Café is a snack location in Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland. Specifically, it is adjacent to Cinderella Castle, just as the park splits into Fantasyland and Tomorrowland.
I visited Walt Disney World in mid to late August and went to the café at least four times from early morning to late afternoon on different days. Spoiler alert: I liked this place a lot. Even in late afternoon, queues were minimal or non-existent. The menu is quite modest, so perhaps that helps move things along. Regardless, the location was always clean, cast members were incredibly friendly, and service was extremely prompt.
The menu includes a few items beyond the standard tea, orange juice, and other drinks one might expect to be available. The Wonderland Slushy is a layered combination of frozen raspberry lemonade and grape. A candy-coated straw is provided. The straw is nice to have, but can be a minor hindrance. Regular straws are, of course, also available. This drink is sweet as one might expect, but is in no way overly tart or sour. It reminds me of the Night Blossom available at Pandora’s Pongu Pongu.
What really got my attention was the Cheshire Cat Tail (pictured at top). This is a braided pastry, which reminded me of a dense croissant, and it had a chocolate filling. On top, there are chocolate chips, and pink and purple icing. It is kept warm so the chocolate on the inside is melted. The pastry has some flakiness but is not messy. As a big eater, I could easily eat one, but this could certainly be split between two people. While it is warm, it is not overpowering in the heat of August.
The Cold Brew Coffee is extremely refreshing on a hot day. There is not much more to say about the coffee, but it is certainly a convenient stop as one enters the park.
The coffee, cat tail, and slushy are all a snack credit under the Disney Dining Plan, and, in my opinion, a great use of a snack credit. The slushy is politely sweet and flavorful and provides cool refreshment as one goes about their day. The coffee is similarly beneficial. The slushy and cat tail have the high dose of sugar to be expected with Disney desserts, without being overt.
As previously stated, the Cheshire Café is located in Fantasyland. If one proceeds up Main Street, U.S.A. and makes a right at Cinderella Castle, the café is a window at which service is provided. The sign includes a grinning Cheshire Cat, with touches reminiscent of Alice in Wonderland. The iconic Mad Tea Party is located next door, and seating on the brick walls around the attraction provides accommodation with some shade. The Tomorrowland Speedway is also nearby, however, none of the infamous smell or noise wafts over. This makes the location a great place to enjoy the beauty of the park; as well as provide a centralized meet-up spot.
Overall, I would highly recommend this snack location. It is one of many great options in Magic Kingdom. On multiple days and times, the service was impeccable, and the café was well-stocked and prepared. When Aloha Isle or Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café had very long lines, a visit here was pleasant and convenient.
Please consider visiting for a Cheshire Cat Tail, Wonderland Slushy, or Cold Brew Coffee on your next vacation. The Cheshire Café is great place to obtain a worthwhile snack.
Spencer Wright is passionate about Walt Disney World, Disney Film, History, and Old Hollywood. He works in Center City Philadelphia and lives in Delaware County, Pennsylvania. He looks forward to writing articles for The Dis Unplugged; currently focusing on Animal Kingdom and the creatures that live there.
