Cosmic Rays Cafe in Magic Kingdom gives good food fast

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe is the largest eatery in the Magic Kingdom but it wasn't until my last visit that the restaurant hit my radar screen. The eatery is adjacent to Tomrrowland and is just across the walkway from the People Mover attraction.

Diners to Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe will find an assortment of American food choices but may find the atmosphere to be confusing at first. The tips in this dining guide will help you with ordering and with securing a quieter table than you might find otherwise.

Family dining tip

Families with children may find this set-up to be challenging. I know that I did. Bay has the widest range of foods.Families may want to check the menu there before entering the line. The online menu at Walt Disney World may help.

Band at Magic Kingdom

Fast food

I enjoyed the well stocked fixings/condiment bar. Besides the usual selection of condiments it had mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, and all the toppings. Sauteed onions were even available.

Where to find a quiet table

Here's the tip for finding a quiet table. Most diners look for a seat near the condiment bar and walk right be an alcove. This is good news for you. As you come into the front door entrance look toward the bays. The alcove is behind you just over your right shoulder.

Drink tip - Ask for extra ice when you order

Tea isn't in a fountain and is warmer than soda. Ice melts almost immediately. Ask for an extra cup of ice at Cosmic Ray's in the Magic Kingdom. You'll be able to replenish the melted ice without navigating the bay again.

Entertainment tip

The animatronic Sunny Eclipse performs at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe in the Magic Kingdom. We missed it and were told to look for the show on cloudy days. Sunny performs in the center of the seating area away from the alcove mentioned above. Those who want to see the show will be best served by sitting close to the middle of the seating area instead of the alcove.

How to order

Three lines greet you when you walk into the front entrance at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe. There is a different menu item for each line. Line (bay) One has chicken (grilled sandwich, fried tenders or ½ rotisserie) or barbeque ribs. The second bay has burgers, hot dogs and a veggie burger. Finally, bay three has a barbeque pork sandwich, burgers, salads or cheese steak sandwich. Each line has an array of side dishes.

Bottom line

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe is among my favorite eateries in the Magic Kingdom. Not only was the alcove quieter than any other place that we found but it was also air conditioned. Glass windows also make this a fun spot to people watch.