The Disney World Cuban sandwich at Backlot Express in Disney's Hollywood Studios has achieved something remarkable: it's convinced seasoned theme park visitors to abandon their beloved chicken tenders for something far more flavourful and satisfying.
Walt Disney World's quick-service dining often plays it safe, with chicken tenders serving as the reliable fallback option for countless hungry guests. However, Backlot Express has quietly been serving up a Cuban sandwich that deserves serious recognition amongst Disney World's counter-service offerings.
What Makes the Disney World Cuban Sandwich at Backlot Express Special?
This pressed sandwich combines slow-roasted pulled pork, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and mustard on crispy bread, served alongside plantain chips. The combination delivers the bold, savoury flavours that many Disney World quick-service meals desperately lack.
The pulled pork provides substantial protein, whilst the ham adds necessary moisture to balance any dryness. The generous Swiss cheese and mustard create a creamy, tangy base that complements the crisp pressed bread perfectly. Most importantly, the flat pickles offer genuine texture and acidity - a refreshing change from standard theme park sandwich fillings.
How Does This Compare to Disney World's Usual Quick-Service Options?
Whilst chicken tenders remain a safe choice across Walt Disney World restaurants, this Cuban sandwich demonstrates that counter-service dining can offer genuine personality and flavour. The sandwich feels thoughtfully constructed rather than hastily assembled, which unfortunately cannot be said for many Disney World quick-service meals.
The plantain chips, however, prove less successful than the main attraction. Guests would be wise to substitute them for standard chips or fries when placing their order. The sandwich itself provides enough satisfaction to carry the entire meal.
Where Can You Find This Hidden Gem in Hollywood Studios?
Backlot Express sits in the Echo Lake area of Disney's Hollywood Studios, making it convenient for guests exploring attractions like Star Tours or catching the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular. The restaurant's location provides easy access during busy park days when quality dining options become increasingly valuable.
The venue itself offers both indoor and outdoor seating, with themed décor that fits Hollywood Studios' movie-making atmosphere. During peak dining hours, the outdoor seating often provides quicker table availability than the indoor sections.
