7 of Disney World’s Best Burgers Are at Skyliner Resorts
This list combines three things we love at Walt Disney World: transportation, resort hopping, and burgers. We’re especially big fans of the Skyliner, and make a point of staying at these resorts whenever possible, or even visiting when we have downtime or want to take a break from the parks.
That’s precisely why we came up with the Skyliner Sip & Snack Stroll or Disney’s Gondola Gastro Glide itinerary, as a way to encourage others to use the gondolas and visit these resorts on their non-park days at Walt Disney World. Then came a “discovery” during a recent stay at Caribbean Beach Resort: Skyliner resorts have stacked menus when it comes to burgers!
I felt like an ancient astronomer, charting the night sky as I discovered that a half-dozen of the best burgers at Walt Disney World are all located in this one little resort area. And that is why some people are calling me the Galileo of Disney Burgers (in addition to being the Michael Jordan of Disney Trash).
In case you’re unfamiliar with it, the Skyliner connects Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT to Art of Animation, Pop Century, Caribbean Beach, and Disney’s Riviera Resorts. With the exception of the last one, these are all Value or Moderate Resorts, which are not typically what Walt Disney World visitors seek out for burgers.
Unlike our Skyliner Sip & Stroll Strategy, we’re not going to pretend this is an actual itinerary for a progressive dining experience, that you can follow for food and fun. Eating one of these burgers is going to be a filling and satisfying meal. Do all six or seven in a single day and you’re in a coma, and hopefully only of the food variety.
Regardless, maybe this takes you to some Walt Disney World resorts that you’ve never visited or places where you’ve never dined. Experiencing new places and things is half the fun of Walt Disney World! So let’s cut to the chase and begin our list of the best burgers along the Skyliner, as we glide around the gondola resorts…
Hourglass Lake Burgers
Everything POP Shopping & Dining is the gift shop and (more significant for our purposes) food court at Disney’s Pop Century Resort. It is absolutely massive, with multiple ordering bays and an expansive seating area. The menu has a wide variety of options, including two different delicious gourmet burgers (that might seem like a lot, but at one point, it had 8!).
Everything POP punches above its weight, and is better than you’d expect for a Value Resort. At this point, the case can be made that it’s actually better and more well-rounded than Landscape of Flavors, which used to be the gold standard for counter service cuisine at Walt Disney World’s lowest-tier resorts.
If you haven’t visited Everything POP in a while, one thing to note is that the interior was reimagined last year. As a result, it has a nice new seating area, with mid-century stylization and far more vibrance and visual interest than the old seating area had. The colors, patterns, and textures all work well. It looks clean and has a pop flair thanks to the upholstery, flooring, and light fixtures. There’s also a greater variety to the seating, with booths, tables, and chairs adding a more laid-back lounge vibe.
Everything POP currently has two burgers on the menu, although I’ve noticed they aren’t both available simultaneously. Or at least, they have not been available at the same time during our meals here over the course of the last few months. Let’s start with the weaker of the two, the Gouda Vibes Burger.
This features Arugula, Garlic Aïoli, and Bacon Jam on an Onion Kaiser Roll served with French Fries for $14.69.
You can also upgrade to the Street Corn Fries, which are French Fries topped with Roasted Corn Relish, Cotija Cheese, and Cilantro-Lime Crema. We highly recommend doing this; the Street Corn Fries are among the best ‘fancy fries’ at Walt Disney World.
As for the Gouda Vibes Burger, it’s very good to great, but not ‘elite tier’ like the other option at Everything Pop.
The Garlic Aïoli, Bacon Jam and Onion Kaiser Roll are just enough to elevate this to an above-average Walt Disney World burger. I’m a big fan of all of these things, and wouldn’t hesitate to order the Gouda Vibes Burger the next time we’re at Pop Century and just looking for an easy and indulgent meal.
The better of the two burgers at Everything POP is the Porchetta Burger. This is also #1 overall at the Hourglass Lake resorts.
This is a Beef Burger topped with Porchetta-style Pork, Fried Egg, Herb Dressing, and Pork Crackling, also for $14.69. You should likewise pay the premium and order this with the Street Corn Fries. Your stomach, but perhaps not your heart, will thank me later.
The Porchetta Burger is better than it has any right to be as a counter service Walt Disney World burger. The Porchetta-style pork is shockingly good, adding flavor and fattiness.
The fried egg further enhances the burger, and both help mask the otherwise pedestrian beef patty. The pork crackling theoretically adds texture and soaks up some juices, but this did nothing for me, taste-wise. To each their own on that, though.
I highly recommend this burger, to the point that I might make the trip over if staying at Caribbean Beach or Art of Animation (no “might” about it; I did exactly that). That’s about as destination dining-worthy as a Value Resort food court entree gets, and makes a case for the #1 overall counter service burger at Walt Disney World.
If the Porchetta Burger is not available at Everything POP, consider heading across the Generation Gap Bridge to Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
Here you’ll find the Patty Melt, which is a Beef Burger Patty with Swiss Cheese, Caramelized Onions, and Tangy Mustard Sauce on Rye Bread for $13.49. I’m not quite sure why it’s cheaper than the basic burger at Landscape of Flavors, but I’ll take it!
The Patty Melt is better than it looks or sounds. The combination of cheese, caramelized onions, and rye bread works wonders. I’d also add that the supposed tangy mustard sauce is addictively good, and creamier than you’d expect based on that description. This Patty Melt punches above its weight, even if it’s not best of class.
With all of that said, there are a ton of great options at Landscape of Flavors. The menu has slowly but surely been expanding, and it’s once again one of the best counter service food courts at any resort.
We’ve done all of the “Dinner Specialties” that are served after 5 pm, and all of them are good picks. I still want to try the nachos before doing a standalone review, as the enormous portion recently caught my eye. (Basically, including the Patty Melt is an excuse for a ‘quick hit’ review that re-endorses Landscape of Flavors!)
Centertown Market’s Swashbuckler Burger
Centertown Market is the food court inside the Old Port Royale lobby area of Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. This was reimagined back ahead of the adjacent Disney’s Riviera Resort opening, and still feels fresh and new-ish.
Centertown Market is very similar to its predecessor, Old Port Royale Food Court. The previous incarnation had different ordering bays meant to resemble an open air outdoor market in the Caribbean. This still has different bays, albeit with a centralized ordering station.
The open air market look has been carried over into the new location, albeit without quite the same charm and character. It looks fresher and upmarket, but it’s also not convincing as a lived-in or themed place. When fans point to Walt Disney World stripping personality from modern designs, this is arguably the biggest offender. But hey, at least the menu has dramatically improved.
Centertown Market is home to a lot of deceptively good cuisine, to the point that I plan on re-reviewing the menu as a whole very soon. Honestly, I’m more inclined to recommend something else at Centertown Market if you’re dining here. The Swashbuckler Burger is like my fourth-favorite thing of what I’ve tried from the current menu. But this is a post about burgers, and the option here is very good, even if it’s not the best item on the menu.
The Swashbuckler Burger is served with Curry-Coconut Aïoli, Jalapeño Jam, Tostones, and Arugula on a Brioche Bun. Like the Everything POP options, it’s $14.69. Also like those, you can upgrade to ‘fancy fries’ for an extra charge. At Caribbean Beach, those are the Cuban Fries, which are seasoned French Fries topped with Mustard and Swiss Cheese Sauce, Ham, and Pickles.
Even Sarah was impressed by the Cuban Fries, which are unexpectedly and addictively good; like the sandwich in fry form. (I’d rank them slightly behind the Street Corn Fries, but these are #1 and #2 of the ‘fancy fries’ I’ve tried at Walt Disney World.)
As for the Swashbuckler Burger, it’s very good by counter service standards but falls just short of greatness.
The coconut aïoli gives the burger a tropical taste, while the jalapeño jam adds flair but maintains mildness. The fried tostones contribute to a unique flavor, while also adding texture. My problem with this burger is that none of the toppings are enough to effectively overcome the standard issue Walt Disney World burger patty, which is low-quality and dry. The bun likewise is nothing special.
This is typical of gourmet Walt Disney World burgers, and my solution everywhere else is to typically request more sauce. That’s what I’d recommend doing if the Swashbuckler Burger appeals to you. There are flashes of a great flavor profile here; the burger is just dragged down by the garden-variety patty and bun.
Primo Piatto Burger
Primo Piatto is the counter service restaurant at Disney’s Riviera Resort. Walt Disney World describes this Italian-inspired eatery as being “reminiscent of chic dining venues found along Riviera promenades.” It’s tucked away on the first floor of Disney’s Riviera Resort, nestled between the Bar Riva poolside lounge, the bocce ball court, and the grand lawn.
In terms of design and atmosphere, Primo Piatto is pretty straightforward. Inside and outside, there’s a variety of seating; booths, tables, and high tops are all among the options that make good use of the space.
Thematically, there’s a variety of mosaic tile-work, arched windows, wainscoting panels, trim, light fixtures, and photos of Lillian and Walt Disney on their travels in the French Riviera. This all works to give Primo Piatto’s seating area a bit of personality.
Primo Piatto serves up the Bacon Cheddar Burger for $14.69. This might sound like a basic burger, but it isn’t. This is a Signature-blend Brisket and Chuck Burger, topped with Bacon, Aged Cheddar, and Garlic Mayonnaise. (I recommend requesting more garlic mayo for fry dipping.)
This is basically just a higher-quality, well-executed burger. The patty is juicy relative to the standard Walt Disney World counter service option, and both the cheese and bacon are higher quality. The one weakness is the bun, which is the same dry brioche used elsewhere on basic burgers.
There are several good items on the Primo Piatto menu, many of which are better than the burger, so it’s difficult to recommend this too enthusiastically, even if it’s a cut above the competition.
Banana Cabana Burger
Banana Cabana is the fan-favorite bar by Fuentes del Morro Pool in the Centertown or Old Port Royale area of Caribbean Beach. Prior to the resort’s reimagining, Banana Cabana was a modest pool bar. A small square building with minimal space and bar seating under the covered area of the building. Essentially akin to one you’d find at the Value Resorts.
Following the reimaginign, there’s even more to love about the location itself, and its fantastic food and drinks menu. This bar has considerably more seating than before, actual theme, lounge chairs, and fun details. It offers the same poolside tropical ambiance, but now also has its own distinct vibe.
Banana Cabana is a lovely open-air setting with the sounds of the pool providing background ambiance, Skyliner gliding by in the distance, and a cool breeze coming off the water on a hot day. There are even live musicians on select nights (usually weekends), and no matter when you visit, Banana Cabana is also a great spot for sunsets and watching EPCOT’s fireworks.
Beyond ordering dessert from the menu at the adjacent Sebastian’s Bistro, the highlight here is the Banana Cabana Burger: Tomatillo-Jalapeño Cream Cheese, and Pineapple Salsa with Plantain Crunch served with French Fries for $19.50.
The Banana Cabana Burger is unique and playful, but at the same time, it is not in the upper echelon of burgers at Walt Disney World. Top 10, but not among the 5 best. This is for those already doing Banana Cabana, plus completionists and those wanting to mix things up with a light taste of the tropics.
The Banana Cabana Burger features a thick patty that’s juicy and flavorful, plus crunch added by the plantain chips, and the sauces. All of this is delicious, and makes for a tasty and unique burger.
The bun is a tad too chewy and slightly oversized for the burger. Beyond that, the combination of the Tomatillo-Jalapeño Cream Cheese and Pineapple Salsa fell a little flat. Hence it only being a light taste of the tropics.
It’s basically just a flavorful burger with a pinch of pineapple. All of the other flavors fade into the background. I wouldn’t have been able to tell you there was cream cheese on this without looking at the menu, and it doesn’t have any of the heat you might expect from these flavors. It’s nevertheless delicious when viewed as a relatively straightforward burger with a tropical twist.
However, this isn’t my favorite meal at Caribbean Beach, nor is it my #1 burger at the Skyliner resorts. That distinction goes to our final entry…
Bar Riva Signature Burger
Bar Riva is the open-air pool lounge that’s right next door to the hotel’s counter service restaurant, Primo Piatto. Like the rest of the resort, Bar Riva draws its inspiration from the Mediterranean, serving up light European and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine in a chic setting.
Simple but stylish, Bar Riva is a lovely location. The indoor-outdoor lounge is a visual feast of vibrant blues and stark whites, with a beautiful mural spanning the length of one wall. It’s sleek and modern, while also classy and timeless. Bar Riva is exactly the type of less-is-more beachfront venue you might find along the Côte d’Azur.
It’s also a nice escape from the crowds, and every time I’ve dined here for lunch, it’s been about half-full. I’ve seen Bar Riva busier in the evenings, but seldom slammed. This has become one of our go-to spots as a family, as it’s low-stakes and the kids menu has healthy options.
One such healthy option is not the Signature Burger, unless you count that small salad that tops it. This consists of a Signature Beef Blend, Brie, Balsamic, Caramelized Onions, and Black Garlic Aïoli for $18.29.
I’m almost reluctant to print that price, not wanting to draw unnecessary attention at the low price. (Thankfully, it did not go up with the fiscal year increases!) And also because it’s one of the cheapest signature sit-down burgers at Walt Disney World, costing $2 to $7 less than its counterparts.
All of the Magic Kingdom resort area options have burgers over $20, and some are over $25! Even the Banana Cabana Burger costs more, and that’s a stone’s throw away at a Moderate Resort. The pricing here doesn’t make sense, but I’m not complaining!
Without question, the Bar Riva Signature Burger is the best burger on the Skyliner.
While the beef patty is about the same (high) quality as its counterpart over at Banana Cabana, everything else here is better. The toppings are superior, and the burger looks and tastes like something you might be served in a French bistro.
And of course, you should choose the Parmesan-Herbed Fries as your side. (Please disregard the photos featuring fruit as the side. I had no say in the matter.)
The big thing, obviously, is how it tastes. The Brie, Balsamic, Caramelized Onions, and Black Garlic Aïoli all come together for an incredibly distinct and mouth-wateringly delicious flavor. A “generous” portion of arugula is also present, which technically counts as salad (so check that box!).
There’s a richness to the Signature Burger, and the depth of flavors is formidable, with the sweetness of the onions cutting the acidity of the balsamic. As I type this, my mouth is watering and I’m craving this.
Even Sarah was impressed by the Signature Burger. This was her favorite item on the menu at Bar Riva, which is high praise, given that there are several more “Sarah-centric” dishes here that are lighter and healthier. This burger is just that “worth it.”
Another thing I appreciate about the Bar Riva Signature Burger is that it’s a thick and juicy patty that can be cooked medium. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy a good smash burger, but so many of Walt Disney World’s newer lounges have focused on those. It’s good to see variety, and that’s exactly what the Bar Riva Signature Burger offers.
There’s nothing else like the Bar Riva Signature Burger anywhere else at Walt Disney World. I love everything about this, and it’s easily a top burger property-wide. I’m not going to name it new #1 or attach any number to it, as picking a favorite burger is like choosing a favorite child.
This belongs in the elite tier, and deserves to be in the conversation for #1 overall. What I will say is that, since “discovering” this burger, I’ve had it a few times but haven’t revisited familiar favorites along the monorail loop. (Although in fairness, we’ve done five consecutive stays at Skyliner or Crescent Lake Resorts, which is kind of how this post came into existence in the first place.)
Bar Riva is a veritable highlight reel, with arguably the best lounge menu of anywhere at Walt Disney World. The Seasonal Pizza, both salads, pasta, and Riviera Cookie Skillet are all excellent. This is one location where the burger is the best option, though.
The Bar Riva Signature Burger plus the Riviera Cookie Skillet is my favorite midday break guilty pleasure meal at Walt Disney World, and one that’s reasonably priced versus burgers of this quality at other bars and lounges. While I hesitate to rank this burger #1, the Bar Riva Signature Burger paired with the Riviera Cookie Skillet is the ultimate one-two punch. No other burger-dessert combo beats this!
Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews. To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!
Your Thoughts
Have you tried any of the burgers at the Skyliner resorts? Any that you loved or loathed? Will you consider a relaxing respite from the weather or crowds in the parks by making a detour to Bar Riva, Banana Cabana, or any of the food courts here? Do you agree or disagree with our assessment? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback—even when you disagree with us—is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!
