I really like the co-op over by the old section of disney springs, in the marketplace area. They have art, household items and some other new stuff that was just added by national georgraphic....(not a fan, it's like Patagonia/Columbia clothing, I guess the goal is to sell to folks who actually live in colder climates). Obviously world of disney is a great store, always mobbed but has a great selection of items. I also like ever after jewelry, they have cute, unique items too. Uniqlo is a great spot for cheap disney tees, they're usually pretty soft but most of the tees I have from there do shrink quite a bit. It's very similar to H&M, fast fashion on the cheap.
Food wise....Amorette's has very pretty desserts and some are better than others, just depends on your preferences. I do like their mini dome cakes, those are always pretty good. I'm not a big fan of everglazed, kids like it, same with salt and straw ice cream. The Ganachery and Gideons are also pretty good, expensive but good. Gideon's will have a line to get in but don't let it scare you. It moves fast and you'll get a return time if it's really long so you don't have to stand in line for hours. Our favorite place to dine at DS is Wine Bar George. We aren't wine drinkers but the food and service at WBG is always great.
Outside of the few disney specific stores, if you live near a major city, most of these retailers aren't that unique. I've had some friends who were floored by Disney Springs since they came from small towns and were expecting it to be a Tanger outlet mall. I enjoy disney springs for having something to do when we aren't at the parks as it's enjoyable to walk around and just browse.