Inexpensive but nice meal/treat suggestions

[Rebecca Pocahontas]

I am going to WDW with my mom and I would love to be able to treat her to a nice meal or afternoon treat. I want it to be a someplace in Disney Springs or at a resort (not in the parks). However my budget isn't the biggest, so even the afternoon tea at the Floridian for $30 a piece is a little too expensive for me.

Does anyone have any good suggestions? It doesn't have to be a full meal, it could just be a little snack and a non-alcoholic drink.

 

[need2travel]

I'll start by admitting that I haven't tried either place but how about something from Amorette's Patisserie (some of their items look so pretty) or gelato from Vivoli Gelateria over at Disney Springs? I can't wait to try their gelato next time we're down there! Or maybe some share some sushi at Splitsville? I know sushi at a bowling alley sounds really weird but it is actually really good Hopefully others will chime in with even better ideas, enjoy your trip!

 

[G719]

Ample Hills ice cream shop on the boardwalk was very good and you can sample the flavors before you decide. The prices were reasonable and the shop is cute too.

 

[Pumbaa_]

Ghirardelli is always yummy

 

[Deb & Bill]

Vivoli at Disney Springs has wonderful gelato.

 

[Nancyg56]

I would look at the Grand Floridian Cafe. It is absolutely pretty, you control how much you spend, and you could choose to go when you were able to spend time relaxing in the Grand Lobby. I think that the Grand is one of the lovliest places to spend time. My DDIL and I were there last December for an impromptu trip, and because we were really trying to limit our OOP spending we were careful in regards to down time. Late afternoon in teh lobby is absolutely awesome. The Grand Pianist entertains, and later on the Grand Orchestra. You could have a late lunch or early dinner, and time that so you could stroll the grounds, relax in the lobby and just enjoy your day.

Erica and I spent time just wandering the main building, going to the shops and having a beverage out on the patio. The upper floor has a lovely sitting areas and a large veranda that is seldon used by anyone.

 

[sleepydog25]

Vivoli is a nice spot for a sweet snack, though it doesn't have much in the way of a seating area outside of a few, very small tables right outside the door. Obviously, you can find another spot to sit and relax, but finding one in the shade can be difficult when it's hot.

Another suggestion would be Sanaa at AKL. They do a bread service that features five different flat breads and eight or nine different dipping sauces that is plenty for two people, and it's only around $15. Toss in a bowl of soup to share, and you have a nice meal for a small price. If you go during lunch or early dinner, then a bonus is you'll likely get to see animals on the savannah. Further, after the meal head over to Jambo House (shuttle or drive) and explore the main AKL area.

 

[Nancyg56]

Vivoli is a nice spot for a sweet snack, though it doesn't have much in the way of a seating area outside of a few, very small tables right outside the door. Obviously, you can find another spot to sit and relax, but finding one in the shade can be difficult when it's hot.

Another suggestion would be Sanaa at AKL. They do a bread service that features five different flat breads and eight or nine different dipping sauces that is plenty for two people, and it's only around $15. Toss in a bowl of soup to share, and you have a nice meal for a small price. If you go during lunch or early dinner, then a bonus is you'll likely get to see animals on the savannah. Further, after the meal head over to Jambo House (shuttle or drive) and explore the main AKL area.

Oh yes! AKL is an awesome place to visit. I forgot about Sanaa, it was a favorite for my family.

 

[anniemae]

I LOVE the Sanaa suggestion and may have to try this myself! I have heard it is wonderful, and the bread service and soup sounds perfect.

 

[Paula Sedley-Burke]

Beaches and Cream at Beach club is lovely and doesn't break the bank.

 

[brittanidp]

Sprinkles cupcakes!!!

 

[sleepydog25]

I LOVE the Sanaa suggestion and may have to try this myself! I have heard it is wonderful, and the bread service and soup sounds perfect.

It's one of our favorites spots out of all the WDW restaurants including Signatures. We also enjoy having a nice glass of wine with the bread service, though that ups the price a bit.

 

[married2mm]

I second gfc.

Really lovely

 

[katt789]

Grand Floridian Cafe!

LOVED IT! Awesome service, great food, and a chance to check out the GFlo, we liked it better than Citricos too!

 

[Ensusieasm]

I am going to WDW with my mom and I would love to be able to treat her to a nice meal or afternoon treat. I want it to be a someplace in Disney Springs or at a resort (not in the parks). However my budget isn't the biggest, so even the afternoon tea at the Floridian for $30 a piece is a little too expensive for me.

Does anyone have any good suggestions? It doesn't have to be a full meal, it could just be a little snack and a non-alcoholic drink.

Here's an idea that doesn't cost anything. Each afternoon at 4:00 you can take a free tour of Boma and Jiko restaurants at Animal Kindom Lodge Jambo House. At Boma you get to try some soup, and a zebra dome. After this you tour Jiko where you will try Jiko's delectable bread service with accompaniments including homemade hummus. The tour takes about a half hour. Afterwards walk around the lobby and out to the Savanah viewing area where knowledgeable cast members will tell you about the animals and answer your questions. After dark you get to use night vision goggles for no cost. If you want to "splurge" you can end your visit with a stop at Mara for a couple of non alcoholic Mango Pina Colada or Raspberry Smoothies. Total cost for your optional treat for Mom: $10 for both smoothies.