If we are looking to save $$, we go for pizza at Louies (US) or the cafe in Marvel SuperHero Island (forget the whole name) at IOA. Remember to show your
AAA card or AP for a discount.
There is a "hidden gem" back in Jurrassic Park called Thunder Falls Terrace. It is counter service, but has a lovely dining area overlooking the splash down of River Adventure. Pretty decent food as well. Many on here rave about Mythos over at IOA--which is a sit down with great food and awesome theming.
Our fav at City Walk is Margaritaville. If DS is along he usually insists we do at least one meal at NBA City. If you venture over to the hotels and are up for a more "fine" dining experience, try Tchoup Chop (RPR), The Kitchen (HRH) or Mama Dellas (PBH).
We have been to UO about a dozen times. For our quick trip next month we are likely to:
Have an early lunch at
Margaritaville the day we arrive. After the parks close and we relax a while we will likely have dinner at
The Kitchen at HRH. The following day we are likely to grab slices of
pizza while out doing the parks. We may end the day at
Thunder Falls Terrace for dinner if the park is still open when our evening hunger hits. On the day we check out, I hope to have a late brunch at the
The Islands Dining Room.
That should give you an example of what one seasoned UO traveler would repeat on a trip to UO.