Cinnabon Used to Be My Go-To Food Court Option, But These 8 Staples Might Be Better

When you’re in the mood for a delicious, gooey cinnamon roll, Cinnabon may be the first restaurant that comes to mind. I’ve enjoyed a Cinnabon cinnamon roll on many occasions and it might be your go-to food court stop as well. However, if you’re looking for something different, there are many other options that you don’t want to miss. Next time you’re stopping for a snack or bite to eat at the food court, check out these food court options that may be better than Cinnabon.

Häagen-Dazs

Häagen-Dazs is my go-to food court stop if I’m in the mood for ice cream. There are few things tastier than a scoop of Häagen-Dazs ice cream or even a creamy Häagen-Dazs milkshake. Even though Häagen-Dazs is more expensive than many other options, the quality makes it worth the splurge.

What to try

You can’t go wrong with any of the ice cream flavors at Häagen-Dazs, whether you get it in a cup, cone, or in the form of a milkshake. Some of the best-selling Häagen-Dazs ice cream flavors include Butter Pecan, Cookies & Cream, and Rocky Road. The Häagen-Dazs Coffee ice cream is also a classic choice.

Auntie Anne’s

Not many people can resist the smell of a freshly baked pretzel from Auntie Anne’s. If I’m looking for a snack to enjoy while walking through the mall, Auntie Anne’s is my go-to. They offer a variety of pretzel flavors in the form of regular-size pretzels and pretzel bites.

What to try

Some people prefer sweet pretzels and others prefer savory ones. No matter which camp you’re in, Auntie Anne’s has options for everyone. If you love sweet pretzels, try their Cinnamon Sugar Pretzel and dip it in their sweet glaze. If you prefer a salty pretzel, try their Original Pretzel with a side of cheese or honey mustard.

Dippin’ Dots

It’s pretty common to find Dippin’ Dots in food courts and other shopping plazas. If you haven’t tried it before, Dippin’ Dots is no ordinary ice cream shop. They offer flash-frozen treats that are unique and delicious, especially on a hot day.

What to try

Dippin’ Dots offers a variety of tasty flavors and I have yet to try one I didn’t like. Some of the most popular flavors at Dippin’ Dots include Banana Split, Birthday Cake, Cookies ‘N Cream, and Chocolate. They also offer a variety of seasonal flavors throughout the year.

Panera Bread

Whether you’re looking for a sweet treat and a cup of coffee or a place to enjoy lunch at the mall, Panera Bread is a great option. Although most Panera Bread locations are stand-alone, there are many locations in malls and other shopping centers as well.

What to try

If you’re looking for something to snack on while you shop, you can’t go wrong with any of the bakery treats at Panera. Some of my favorites include the Kitchen Sink Cookie and the Chocolate Croissant. You can also enjoy a delicious lunch at Panera with one of their salads, soups, or sandwiches.

Mrs. Fields

Mrs. Fields is my go-to stop if I’m in the mood for a chocolate chip cookie. While they do have beautifully decorated cookie cakes, you can also stop by to pick up a single cookie or even a few cookies if you’re planning on sharing.

What to try

The chocolate chip cookie at Mrs. Fields is a classic, but they also have many other options to try. Some of the best cookies at Mrs. Fields include the White Chocolate Macadamia cookies, Cinnamon Sugar cookies, and the Triple Chocolate cookies.

Orange Julius

When you’re looking for a refreshing beverage to enjoy while you shop, Orange Julius is a great option. This smoothie shop can often be found in mall food courts and they have a wide range of flavors of their signature Julius beverage.

What to try

The menu at Orange Julius includes the Julius Originals as well as Premium Fruit Smoothies. Some of the best flavors to try include the Orange Julius Original, Strawberry Banana Julius Original, and the Mango Pineapple Premium Fruit Smoothie.

Johnny Rockets

If you love the retro aesthetic, you have to visit Johnny Rockets. This retro-inspired diner has delicious burgers and fries but they’re also known for their creamy shakes. You can enjoy lunch or dinner at Johnny Rockets or just stop in for a tasty shake to-go.

What to try

Nothing can fuel your shopping trip better than Johnny Rockets. They have a wide selection of burgers such as the Rocket Double and the Smoke House Burger. You also can’t enjoy a meal at Johnny Rockets without ordering one of their tasty shakes in flavors such as Hershey’s Chocolate Strawberry and Chocolate Chip Cookie.

The Cheesecake Factory

From their delicious bread to their delectable cheesecakes, you can’t go wrong by stopping by this restaurant. They have a pretty extensive menu with a wide selection of salads, sandwiches, and other entrees. If you’re not in the mood for a full meal, you can also stop by for a slice of cheesecake and a cup of coffee.

What to try

If you’re looking for a creamy and flavorful cheesecake, The Cheesecake Factory is the place to go. Their dessert list is extensive but some of my favorite options are the Caramel Pecan Turtle Cheesecake, Tiramisu Cheesecake, and the Hershey’s Chocolate Bar Cheesecake.

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