Myths About Table-Service Meals at Disney World

A big question that a lot of newcomers to Walt Disney World have revolves around where to eat. Table-service meals are those meals that you need to have a reservation for throughout Walt Disney World Property. Although there are a lot of amazing choices, there are some myths that go along with them. Check out our myths about table-service meals to help you make a more informed decision regarding dining at Walt Disney World.  

Only Sit-down Meals Have Good Food

This isn’t true at all in Walt Disney World. You might find fancier food at sit-down meals throughout Walt Disney World property; however, there are some fantastic meals you can find at quick-service locations. Some of the top options would be Satu’li Canteen and Flame Tree Barbecue in Animal Kingdom. Both of these options offer delicious, fresh food with large portions. In Disney Springs, you can get another amazing barbecue meal at Polite Pig. If you want something unique, consider getting a famous ronto wrap from Ronto Roasters in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Long gone are the days when you have to schedule a sit-down meal to get something besides burgers and nuggets. Disney has done a fantastic job expanding food choices at all parks.

You Can’t Get Same Day Reservations

Many Guests believe that if they don’t get their desired sit-down reservation at the 60 day mark, they are out of luck. This isn’t the case. We highly recommend that you keep checking back on the app as many reservations come available as people are constantly changing their plans. Even if you can’t get a reservation up until the day of, you still have a chance to eat at your desired location. The My Disney Experience app now displays walk-ups available, allowing Guests to join a waitlist, giving them a day of a chance to eat their sit-down meal of choice.

Table-Service Meals Have the Best Atmosphere

There is no arguing that some of the best views and atmospheres can be found at sit-down meals throughout Disney World property. It is hard to beat a fireworks dinner at California Grill or to wake up with breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t find an atmosphere at both lounges and quick-service locations as well. Noman Lounge in Animal Kingdom provides one of the best views and atmospheres in Disney World. Right off the water, this lounge has comfortable seating that allows Guests to truly relax. You can also enjoy a fun atmosphere at BaseLine Tap House in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This corner pub provides a welcoming atmosphere to those strolling by. If you want a fun, unique atmosphere for your meal, you don’t have to invest time and money in a sit-down meal. Look into those fun lounges and quick-service options that will provide you with the desired experience.

 

Kids Aren’t Welcomed at Table-Service Meals

If the dining location is in Disney World, then kids are expected and welcomed there. Except for Victoria and Albert’s, kids are welcomed at all Disney dining locations. Don’t feel like you have to skip out on the fireworks meal or the nice evening because you don’t want to bring your little one. Disney is a place for kids and families, and they are more than prepared to welcome little ones.

Character Meals Are Only For Families

This is not the case at Walt Disney World. Character meals are for everyone that wants to try it out. Some of the best experiences at character meals have been with extended family as we have all enjoyed seeing the characters together and had a nice meal with one another. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old, solo or with a large group of characters. Dining throughout Walt Disney World is a fun option for everyone. You can experience some great interactions right now at locations such as Tusker House, Garden Grille, Chef Mickey’s, and Hollywood and Vine, to name a few. Check out what characters are greeting Guests at each, and then be ready for a magical time.

Table-Service Meals Are Super Expensive

A trip to Walt Disney World isn’t cheap, and therefore it isn’t a surprise that most assume that all table service meals are super expensive. This isn’t the case, however if you do some digging. If you are looking at fine dining at places such as California Grill, or Rose and Crown, you will probably find the pricing to be a little higher than what you might typically spend on date night. This isn’t the case for all table-service locations. Art Smith’s Homecoming in Disney Springs offers a large menu with decent pricing for a large amount of food. In the Magic Kingdom, The Plaza Restaurant is a casual dining location that offers various entree options at a cost ranging from $15 to $35 each. If you do some looking, you can find some great options that won’t break the bank for sit-down meals.

 

Table-service dining is an excellent option for many Guests visiting Walt Disney World. We hope that these myths will help you determine if they are right for you and your family during your next vacation. Even though most “experts” might push you to make sit-down reservations, know that these aren’t a requirement to have a good meal and a magical time while visiting Walt Disney World.