Running a runDisney race is an unforgettable experience, and proper fueling is key to crossing the finish line strong. Whether you’re gearing up for a 5K, 10K, half marathon, full marathon, or tackling the Goofy or Dopey Challenge, carb-loading can help provide the sustained energy you need. Luckily, Walt Disney World is home to plenty of great dining spots where you can load up on pasta, potatoes, and other runner-friendly fuel. Here are 9 of the best restaurants for carb-loading at Walt Disney World before runDisney events!
Here’s a list of 10 top restaurants perfect for pre-race carb-loading:
1. Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
A classic choice for Italian comfort food and one of the best for carb-loading at Walt Disney World, Mama Melrose’s serves up delicious pasta dishes like spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine Alfredo, and more. It’s a popular spot for runners, so be sure to make a reservation—especially on race weekends!
2. Trattoria al Forno
Disney’s BoardWalk
This charming Italian eatery is a pasta lover’s dream! Trattoria al Forno serves fresh, house-made pasta dishes like rigatoni bolognese, lasagna al forno, and fettuccine Alfredo. The warm, cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect place to fuel up before race day.
3. Tony’s Town Square Restaurant
Magic Kingdom
Inspired by Lady and the Tramp, this Italian spot specializes in carb-heavy classics like spaghetti and meatballs, fettuccine Alfredo, and penne alla vodka. If you’re planning a Magic Kingdom day before your race, Tony’s is a great in-park option for a pasta-filled meal.
4. Ale & Compass Restaurant
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
This cozy spot offers plenty of carb-friendly options, from pasta dishes to warm Parker House rolls. If you’re looking for a relaxed pre-race dinner, Ale & Compass is a solid choice.
5. Garden Grill Restaurant
EPCOT – Living with the Land Pavilion
Garden Grill serves an all-you-can-eat family-style menu featuring carb-rich options like cornbread, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese. This rotating restaurant offers fresh ingredients sourced directly from EPCOT’s Living with the Land greenhouses. You’ll get a variety of other foods, but it still checks out as being one of the Best Restaurants for Carb-Loading at Walt Disney World.
6. Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria
EPCOT – Italy Pavilion
Known for its authentic Italian cuisine, Via Napoli is a great place to load up on carbs. The restaurant offers a variety of pasta dishes . Plus, their wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas are perfect for a pre-race meal.
7. Il Mulino New York Trattoria
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
For a more upscale Italian dining experience, Il Mulino is an excellent choice. This spot offers handmade pasta dishes like linguine with clams, gnocchi Bolognese, and traditional lasagna. The generous portions make it a great place to stock up on carbs before race day.
8. Tutto Italia Ristorante
EPCOT – Italy Pavilion
Another excellent Italian option in EPCOT, Tutto Italia serves up rich and satisfying pasta dishes, including fettuccine Alfredo, spaghetti carbonara, and lasagna alla bolognese. The elegant setting makes it a nice choice for a pre-race dinner.
9. ‘Ohana
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
If you’re in the mood for a different type of carb-loading, ‘Ohana’s family-style dinner includes servings of their famous noodles, among other things. At this time it is an all-you-care-to-enjoy dining venue, so don’t be shy about asking for seconds if you find yourself a fan of the noodles. The mix of flavors and relaxed tropical atmosphere make it a great option before race day (or even better- after the race when you don’t care as much about carbs but have an appetite for ALL THE THINGS!)
Conclusion to 9 Best Restaurants for Carb-Loading at Walt Disney World Before runDisney Events
These 9 best restaurants for carb-loading at Walt Disney World offer plenty of options to help you fuel up before your runDisney race. Whether you’re craving a classic pasta dish, fresh-baked bread, or something a little different (but still carb-heavy), Walt Disney World has you covered. Be sure to make reservations in advance—these spots tend to fill up fast during race weekends!
If you get stuck and are staying on Walt Disney World property, never fear! A lot of the resorts will have a pasta dish available in their quick-service dining areas. There are also several quick services locations around the parks that will have pasta and other carb-heavy dishes.
Where are your go-to best restaurants for carb-loading at Walt Disney World before a runDisney event?
Want a cut shirt that describes just how you feel during marathon training? Grab this Hungry and Tired shirt featuring, you guessed it, CARBS!
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