If you wander all the way through the labyrinth that is the ground level of the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort, you will find a fabulous little place called Picabu Buffeteria.  We were told about this little hidden gem during our first stay at the hotel.  It took a few wrong turns before we found it in the back of the bottom floor, but we were sure glad we did.  We visit Picabu several times during our stays at the Walt Disney World Dolphin and Swan Resorts because it is SO convenient, and has a little bit of everything for everyone and is open at any time – 24 hours a day.

When you enter Picabu you feel as if you’ve been transported to a tropical island.  The walls are brightly colored and you walk along a giant aquarium that plays the sounds of waves crashing on the shore.  Everything at Picabu is served cafeteria style; a server behind the counter will prepare your plate and then pass it along to you.  Picabu Buffeteria is mainly known for its Mexican-style dishes, such as tacos, burritos, and nachos.  Since we are usually visiting the Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks during the day and evening, we unfortunately have never had the chance to sample the dishes, but they smell and look fantastic.  In addition to the taquiera offerings, Picabu also has everything from hot wings to burgers and hot dogs to chicken pot pie and lasagna.

Breakfast at Picabu is my favorite.  They offer your typical breakfast fare, but it has quality taste and generous portions.  I usually get the kid-size Picabu breakfast.  It is served with scrambled eggs, sausage or bacon, lyonnaise-style breakfast potatoes (YUM!!), and toast.  And yes, I said the kid-size because, like I said, the portions are VERY generous.  And at only $6 for all of that, I think it is a great value.  My husband likes their biscuits and sausage gravy with sausage links.  On our last trip, I opted for one of the giant cinnamon rolls.  It was warm, gooey, sweet, and the icing on top was delicious.  Picabu also serves Starbucks coffee, which you can refill as many times as you like during your breakfast.  This coffee drinker loves that little perk!

The convenience of the large grab-and-go area is the main reason for our love of Picabu.  We are usually out the door very early during our trips, and it is so easy to grab a quick yogurt or muffin on-the-go.  At the beginning of our stay, we always grab a quart of milk from Picabu and keep it in the refrigerator in our room for a quick cereal breakfast before heading out the door, or to wash down a late sweet treat before going to bed.  Also in the cold grab-and-go section are freshly made salads, sandwiches, cut fruit, and an assortment of desserts.  They offer MANY different drink options from juice, sodas, milk, and even wine and beer.  There is also a small convenience market inside with various snacks and toiletry items.

After paying for your items, you can either grab your things and go, or you can have a seat in the dining room to enjoy your meal.  We always enjoy sitting in the dining room when we have a big breakfast at Picabu.  The room is big, rarely crowded, and there are tables to seat as few as two and some that can accommodate large parties as well.

It is important to note that since Picabu Buffeteria is located in the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort (which is not owned or operated by Walt Disney World Resorts), it does not accept the Disney Dining Plan.  However, I think that it does offer great food at a great price, and is very convenient.

Next time you are in the area and looking for a hearty meal or something to grab on the run, definitely check out Picabu Buffeteria!  It’s worth the game of hide-and-seek to find it.