Planning your meals is an essential part of making your Walt Disney World vacation magical. From unique atmospheres to delicious food, Disney restaurants offer experiences that add to the joy of your trip. However, dining at Disney can also be overwhelming, so we’ve compiled ten quick tips to help you make the most of your meal planning.
These tips will ensure you enjoy great food while saving time and money during your Disney vacation.
1. Dining Reservations Are a Must
If you’re dreaming of dining at iconic spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table or catching fireworks from California Grill, booking dining reservations in advance is crucial. Reservations open 60 days before your trip, and popular spots fill up fast. You can make your reservations through the My Disney Experience app starting at 6 a.m. EST, so be ready on the day your booking window opens.
Prioritize hard-to-get restaurants later in your trip to increase your chances of securing those reservations. If you can’t book your top choices immediately, keep checking the app—cancellations happen frequently.
2. Limit Table Service Meals
While Disney’s table service meals are delightful and provide a relaxing break from the hustle of the parks, they can take up valuable park time. A sit-down meal often lasts between one to two hours, so plan wisely. If you’re trying to make the most of your day, consider limiting table service meals and opting for quick-service options that save time and money.
Table service meals also tend to be large, so if you’re scheduling more than one a day, you might find yourself too full to enjoy other meals or waste food. Reducing the number of these meals can help cut down on your food expenses as well.
3. Stay Persistent for Hard-to-Get Reservations
If you can’t snag your ideal reservation right away, don’t give up! Guests change their plans all the time, which means dining reservations can open up as people cancel or adjust. Keep checking the My Disney Experience app right up until your trip. The walk-up waitlist feature is another great option if you’re already in the parks and hoping to dine at a specific spot.
4. Consider Dining at Lounges
You don’t always need a reservation for a top-tier Disney dining experience. Many signature restaurants have lounges where you can enjoy some of the same food and drinks in a more casual setting. Lounges connected to popular spots like California Grill, Tiffins, and Hollywood Brown Derby are excellent options if you can’t get into the main dining room or simply want a smaller meal.
5. Take Advantage of Quick-Service Locations
You don’t have to sacrifice food quality by choosing quick-service restaurants. Disney has some incredible quick-service options that save you time and money while offering delicious meals. To avoid long lines, try to eat during off-peak hours when the crowds are lighter.
Quick-service spots are spread across all parks, offering everything from BBQ to international cuisine. Check the My Disney Experience app for locations near you.
6. Use Mobile Ordering
One of the best ways to streamline your dining experience is through mobile ordering at quick-service locations. The My Disney Experience app allows you to order food in advance, skipping the lines entirely. You can even place your order while standing in line for an attraction, ensuring your food is ready when you are.
This is especially helpful for families or large groups who want to avoid waiting in line for meals.
7. Consider a Disney Dining Plan
The Disney Dining Plan will return in 2024, making it an appealing option for guests who want an all-inclusive feel to their vacation. These prepaid meal plans offer flexibility and can help you budget more effectively for your trip. Research which plan fits your needs best, as it can be a great way to make the most of Disney’s culinary offerings without worrying about cost during your trip.
8. Cancel Reservations if Plans Change
If your plans change and you no longer need a dining reservation, be sure to cancel it through the app. Disney’s new cancellation policy only requires you to cancel 2 hours ahead of your reservation time, so there’s some flexibility. Avoid no-show fees by keeping track of your dining reservations and adjusting them as needed.
9. Plan Enough Time for Transportation
Getting from one Disney location to another can take time, especially if you’re dining at a resort. Remember, there is no direct transportation between Disney resorts, so plan your route accordingly. You might need to stop at a park or transportation hub to reach your dining destination. Build in extra time to make sure you arrive on time for your reservation.
For instance, if you’re traveling from one resort to another for dinner, factor in up to an hour or more, depending on transportation options. It’s always better to be early and enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail than to feel rushed.
10. Share Meals to Try More
With so many delicious dishes to try, sharing meals is a great way to sample a variety of options without overstuffing yourself. Many dishes at both table service and quick-service restaurants are shareable, allowing you to taste more of what Disney has to offer without feeling overwhelmed. Sharing meals can also help save money and give you more flexibility in trying different foods throughout the day.
Whether you’re snacking around EPCOT’s World Showcase or splitting a hearty BBQ platter at Flame Tree Barbecue, sharing allows you to experience more of Disney’s culinary magic.
Dining at Walt Disney World is an essential part of the experience, but with so many options, it can be tricky to navigate. Using these tips will help you enjoy fantastic meals, save time, and avoid unnecessary expenses. By planning ahead and making the most of Disney’s dining features, you’ll ensure your vacation is filled with magical meals that the whole family will love.
