The Very Best Appetizers at Walt Disney World Right Now

When it comes to dining at Walt Disney World, the options are endless, from casual quick-service bites to unforgettable signature meals. While the main courses often steal the spotlight, the appetizers at Disney restaurants are just as noteworthy and are sometimes the true hidden gems of the menu. Whether you’re looking for something light before diving into your entree or simply love sampling small plates, Disney World has you covered.

Here’s a look at some of the best appetizers you can enjoy at Walt Disney World right now!

San Juan Style Beef Empanadas – Paradiso 37, Disney Springs

Start your culinary adventure at Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas in Disney Springs. This lively spot offers a range of Latin American-inspired dishes, but it’s the San Juan Style Beef Empanadas that leave guests raving. These crispy, handmade pastries are filled with savory beef and served with a side of aji amarillo sauce and sour cream.

It’s the perfect way to begin your meal at this vibrant Disney Springs restaurant. For a unique twist, don’t miss the South American Crazy Corn—a fire-roasted corn on the cob slathered with P37 cheese and aji Amarillo. It’s a flavorful street food treat right in the heart of Disney Springs.

The duo of Appetizers – Tiffins, Disney’s Animal Kingdom

For an upscale appetizer experience, head to Tiffins in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This signature restaurant features a Duo of Appetizers that combines two fan favorites: the Charred Octopus and Chickpea Falafel. The charred octopus is served with grilled corn salsa, tequila, mole negro, and cilantro, while the falafel is accompanied by mint-pistachio pesto and cumin-scented garlic raita.

Can’t choose between them? The Duo lets you enjoy both for the best of both worlds!

Spicy Cauliflower Wings – Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, Disney Springs

If you’re craving comfort food with a Southern twist, look no further than Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ at Disney Springs. While the fried chicken and biscuits are famous here, the Spicy Cauliflower Wings are a standout appetizer for those looking for something different. These crispy cauliflower bites are tossed in a hot honey sauce and flash-fried to perfection, offering a plant-based twist on traditional wings.

Pair them with the restaurant’s signature cocktails for the ultimate Southern-style experience.

Neptuna Nicoise – Space 220, EPCOT

For a dining experience that’s truly “out of this world,” visit Space 220 in EPCOT. The Neptuna Nicoise shines for seafood lovers among its stellar appetizers. This refreshing dish features diced yellowfin tuna, haricot verts, cherry tomatoes, potatoes, olives, and a balsamic reduction. It’s a light, flavorful way to start your intergalactic meal, and the stunning space-themed ambiance adds to the overall experience.

Escargot Casino – Hollywood Brown Derby, Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Feeling adventurous? At the Hollywood Brown Derby, you can try the exquisite Escargot Casino. This elegant dish offers a bold blend of flavors, with escargot served in a roasted garlic béchamel sauce, crispy prosciutto, and piquillo pepper crumbs. For those with more refined palates, this appetizer is a must-try. If escargot isn’t your thing, the Roasted Squash and Apple Soup is a wonderful plant-based option that doesn’t disappoint.

Sea Salt-Dusted Potato Brioche – Steakhouse 71, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

For fans of steakhouse classics, Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a delicious appetizer that’s hard to resist: the Sea Salt-Dusted Potato Brioche. This light, fluffy potato bread is dusted with sea salt and paired with butter and a roasted garlic-tomato spread. It’s the perfect starter before digging into one of Steakhouse 71’s famed entrees.

Burrata Caprese – Maria & Enzo’s, Disney Springs

When it comes to authentic Italian flavors, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante in Disney Springs delivers, especially with its burrata caprese appetizer. This dish features creamy burrata cheese served with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and house-made focaccia. It’s a classic appetizer elevated by the quality of its ingredients, making it a must-order for anyone craving Italian cuisine.

Beef Carpaccio – Yachtsman Steakhouse, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

The Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is a favorite for steak lovers, but their Beef Carpaccio appetizer is just as impressive. Thinly sliced beef is drizzled with truffle aioli and topped with parmesan cheese, fried capers, and grilled artichoke. The dish is finished with smoked sea salt and halved radishes, creating a balanced and flavorful start to your meal.

Wild Mushroom Bisque – Storybook Dining at Artist Point, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

If you’re looking for a whimsical dining experience, make a reservation at Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. The Wild Mushroom Bisque is a rich, creamy starter that combines wild mushrooms with a crispy mushroom garnish. This appetizer is both comforting and flavorful, perfect for setting the tone for the enchanting meal to come.

Crab-Topped Fries – Paddlefish, Disney Springs

Seafood lovers rejoice! Paddlefish at Disney Springs offers a delicious twist on loaded fries with their Crab-Topped Fries appetizer. Crispy skin-on fries are piled high with blue crab meat and topped with a tangy Louie dressing. This shareable dish is perfect for those who love bold seafood flavors and makes for an excellent start to any meal at this iconic Disney Springs location.

Indian-Style Bread Service – Sanaa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

No list of Disney World appetizers would be complete without the famous Indian-Style Bread Service from Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This fan-favorite appetizer includes five different types of bread Traditional Naan, Garlic-Ginger Naan, Spiced Naan, Onion Kulcha, and Paneer Paratha served with nine unique accompaniments such as mango chutney, roasted red pepper hummus, and spicy jalapeño-lime pickle. It’s a flavorful and satisfying start to any meal and a must-try for bread lovers.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World for a magical vacation or just stopping by Disney Springs for a quick bite, the appetizer selections are sure to impress. From light bites to hearty starters, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Don’t miss out on these top appetizers during your next trip to Disney World!