You’ve probably passed by this hidden treasure without realizing it.
But man have you been missing something! Situated opposite of The French Market in New Orleans Square at Disneyland, you’ll notice people sitting outside under the awning, enjoying a quiet meal at the park. Mostly outside seating along the walkway between Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion, the entrance is hidden around the corner and up the street near the parasol cart. This classic Louisiana sit down restaurant is a great reflection of some fun Southern cuisine. They have salads, soups, sandwiches, and crepes, but you come here for the Monte Cristo!
Location: New Orleans Square, Disneyland
Type: Sit down service
Specialty: New Orleans / French Quarter cooking
Cost: About $20 per entree
Craig’s Favorite: Believe it or not, the Monte Cristo Sandwich
You won’t be able to get enough of the Monte Cristo Sandwich (but you’ll walk away full for sure). This whopping, deep-fried sandwich will set you back a calorie or two-thousand, but it is so scrumdiliumcious, you won’t mind. The Monte Cristo is probably the highlight of the menu. You can also get one at the Blue Bayou, but it’s so crowded there and hard to get a reservation, your best bet is over at Cafe Orleans. It’s basically a jelly donut with ham and cheese! Okay, that might not sound appealing, but the flavor is amazing. It’s a great combination of sweet and savory mixed together in just the right proportion. It’s served sparsely with nothing but berries, but considering I haven’t been able to finish one, there really isn’t much more that’s needed. It is so deeply rich, it’s likely you’ll walk away with half.
Besides the Monte Cristo, they have a number of great food choices, both healthy and less healthy for you. And of course, kid options that should satisfy most children’s palettes. The first time I remember going, I had the Cafe Orleans Salmon Sandwich. Served with tasty sweet potato waffle fries, this put a smile on my face. Sadly it’s gone. But they’ve replaced it with other delicious sounding dishes. Fried green tomato sandwich, chicken muffuletta, “Crescent City” salad, and a Nawlins Vegetable Ragout. Although I haven’t tried it, I’ve heard the crepes are very good as well and there are two to choose from – Braised Beef Crepe and Chicken Gumbo Crepe. Speaking of gumbo, the New Orleans Gumbo is pretty incredible. When my friends and I go, we tend to share an appetizer of pomme frites (french fries with garlic and parmesan cheese). The remoulade that goes with it is the best – ask for extra. The French Onion soup is also a must have. Quite tasty. The smooth broth slides down your throat with plenty of cheese and not too much bread. And as far as I know, this is the only place in Disneyland that serves Minute Maid Light Pomegranate Lemonade. It’s a nice break from regular light lemonade and definitely a nice low calorie, low sugar option.
This is also one of only two places you can get a Mickey beignet! We went for my daughter’s birthday and they gave her one all decked out with plenty of confectionary sugar, whipped cream, and a candle. And even though it’s not on the menu, I’m pretty sure they still let you order a sweet Mint Julep. If you want something tasty, classy, and relaxing, then come to the Cafe Orleans and enjoy a fine meal. And make reservations in advance. There is usually available seating, but don’t miss out on the off chance they book up.
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