First of all check out this link:
http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1162599
Then here is a link on dining at DL:
http://www.wdwinfo.com/Disneyland/dining.htm#gold-disneyland-dining
As you can see within the parks, there is not the variety of full service dining that WDW parks have. However, with DTD and the three resort hotels all right there, within walking distance you have quite a bit in the way of options. Blue Bayou is the most famous of DLR sit downs, think San Angel Inn in the Bayou vs. Mexico!
I think
Disneyland counter service is really good and actually like it better than WDW cs. Many of the places serve buffeteria style, meaning you go through a line, they serve you the food and then you pay. Its served on real plates, in nice settings with huge portions. My three favorites in Disneyland are: Plaza Inn (great fried chicken, pot roast and pasta), Rancho de Zocalo (Mexican) and Redd Rockets Pizza Port (pizza, pasta, salads). I also love the French Market, on the weekends you can sit outdoors and listen to live jazz. I love the Riverbelle Terrace for Mickey panacakes in the morning. I enjoy eating there, outside looking at the Rivers of America. And Walt Disney used to have his coffee there many mornings so that makes it special.
At DCA I like Taste Pilots Grill for burgers, ribs and chicken sandwiches as well as the Pacific Wharf area which has Mexican, magaritas and a bakery that sells sandwiches, salads and soups in breadbowls.
All the cs and ts places have ac but they also have a lot of outdoor seating too. And since Southern California doens't have that annoying humidity WDW does, that can be very cool and pleasant too. Only the Carnation Cafe is full service with no ac since its all outdoor seating. But its got quite a bit of shade since its covered. Thats right on Main Street U.S.A., and not much more for a quick lunch or dinner than cs (except for the tip).
Like WDW, portions are huge and often enough for two people to share. I think you won't go hungry! I hope you have a great trip to DL, it will seem familar yet very unique too. Have fun!
