6 Tips to Consider When Making Dining Selections

Dining at Walt Disney World Resort is an essential part of the vacation experience. Whether you’re indulging in a character meal, grabbing a quick snack between attractions, or enjoying a signature dining experience, there’s something for every appetite.

With so many options across the theme parks, Disney Resort hotels, and Disney Springs, planning ahead can ensure you have the best dining experience possible. Here’s everything you need to know about making the most of your Disney dining adventure.

Choosing the Best Dining Location

Location is key when planning meals at Walt Disney World. Many guests focus their time on the four theme parks, but there are plenty of excellent dining options available at Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.

Inside the Parks vs. Resort Dining

• Dining inside the theme parks offers convenience, but reservations for popular restaurants can fill up quickly.
• Resort dining provides a great way to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks. Consider returning to your resort for a relaxing meal or visiting a resort restaurant near the park you’re exploring.
• Disney Springs offers various dining options, from casual eateries to celebrity-chef restaurants, making it a fantastic choice for a non-park day or evening meal.

Best Resort Dining Near the Parks

• Near Magic Kingdom: Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, or the many options at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort.
• Near EPCOT & Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Topolino’s Terrace at Disney’s Riviera Resort or Ale & Compass at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
• Near Disney’s Animal Kingdom: Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers unique flavors and incredible views of the resort’s savanna.

Selecting the Right Type of Meal

Walt Disney World offers various dining experiences, from sit-down meals to grab-and-go options. Choosing the right type depends on your schedule, preferences, and budget.

Table Service Restaurants

• Character Dining: Experience magical moments with beloved Disney characters at locations like Cinderella’s Royal Table at Magic Kingdom or Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White.
• Signature Dining: Upscale restaurants such as California Grill or Jiko – The Cooking Place offer gourmet meals perfect for celebrating special occasions.
• Casual Table Service: Restaurants like The Plaza Restaurant or Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen offer great meals in a relaxed atmosphere.
• Advance Reservations Required: Most table-service restaurants require reservations, which can be made 60 days in advance through the My Disney Experience app.

Quick-Service Restaurants

• Fast & Convenient: No reservations required; order at the counter and find a seat.
• The Top Quick-Service Locations are Connections Eatery at EPCOT, Satu’li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
• Mobile Ordering: Use the My Disney Experience app to order food ahead of time and skip the lines.

Snack Options

Sometimes, a full meal isn’t necessary. Consider making a meal out of Disney’s iconic snacks:

• Mickey Pretzel with Cheese
• Dole Whip from Aloha Isle
• Popcorn with Specialty Flavors
• Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar

Understanding Discounts and Dining Plans

Dining at Walt Disney World can be expensive, but there are ways to save money.

Discounts for Eligible Guests

• Annual Passholders & Disney Vacation Club Members may receive discounts at select restaurants.
• Disney Visa Cardholders can also enjoy special dining discounts.

Disney Dining Plan

• The Disney Dining Plan returned in 2024 and is available as part of vacation packages.
• Guests can choose between the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan and the standard one.
• The Deluxe Disney Dining Plan and Disney Dining Plan Plus remain unavailable.

Making Advance Dining Reservations

For table-service meals, making Advance Dining Reservations (ADR) is essential.

• Reservations open 60 days before your trip and can be booked via the My Disney Experience app.
• Popular restaurants like Cinderella’s Royal Table and Oga’s Cantina fill up quickly, so book as early as possible.
• Credit Card Requirement: A valid credit card is required to secure reservations. If guests do not cancel or modify their reservations in time, a $10 per person fee applies.

Using Mobile Ordering for Quick-Service Meals

For quick-service meals, mobile ordering is a game-changer.

• Order Ahead: Use the My Disney Experience app to place your order in advance.
• Skip the Line: Pick up your food when it’s ready without waiting in long lines.
• Available at Most Quick-Service Locations: While many restaurants support mobile ordering, some still require traditional ordering, so check the app beforehand.

Tips for Dining at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a fantastic spot for dining, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an unforgettable meal.

• Best Table Service Restaurants: The Boathouse, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, and Morimoto Asia.
• Best Quick Service Spots: Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, Chicken Guy!, and D-Luxe Burger.
• Make Reservations for Dinner: Popular spots book up fast, so reservations are highly recommended.

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Dining at Walt Disney World is more than just a way to refuel—it’s part of the magic. Whether you’re enjoying a character breakfast, a gourmet dinner, or a snack between rides, planning ahead will help you have a stress-free and delicious experience.

What’s your favorite place to eat at Walt Disney World? Let us know in the comments!