Walt Disney World Resort®
Did you know there are over 100 dining options available?! Here's an overview of Disney dining and what the difference is in dining as they offer a variety of dining options ranging from snack carts to counter service locations to fine dining experiences.
Table service dining is what one would traditionally call a “sit down” dining experience; you order from a menu, receive food family style, or select items from a buffet. Table service dining can be found at moderate & deluxe resort hotels, Disney Springs, and the theme parks.
Quick service dining offer dining with faster service as they are generally either cafeteria-style or counter-service venues. You order or take the food items that you want, pay for your food, and sit down to enjoy your meal. Quick service locations are located throughout the theme parks, Disney Springs, and resort hotels. Value & moderate resorts offer a food court type experience with a wider variety of options, including grab & go items.
Snacks may be found at food kiosks or carts throughout the property, at the bakeries, at your resort food court, at candy shops, etc.
Does that make sense? Help clarify some of the differences and what's available? If not, let me know!
Other helpful info...
Mobile ordering! Quick service dining locations and some snack locations are available via Disney's Mobile Order process via the My Disney Experience app. Order your meal ahead of time or that snack while you're walking towards the location.
Have allergies or a specific dietary need? Special dietary requests, including food allergies, food intolerances, medically restricted diets, kosher, and halal meals can often be accommodated at table-service restaurants and select quick-service locations. You can notate dietary requests when making advanced dining reservations.
Larger party? Be prepared to split up to be accommodated at many restaurants Many Disney restaurants have a limited number of tables accommodating large parties. It might be necessary to book two tables for 4 rather than one table for 8. If this happens, just let them know that you booked two tables when checking in for your reservation and they will do their best to seat your party at the same table or near one another if at all possible. For parties of 6 or larger, 18% gratuity will automatically be added to your bill.
Other Food & Beverage Tips:
For the most popular dining options as well as for the first few days of your vacation, I recommend having a back up selection available.
If a dining reservation isn't available, keep checking! Cancellations do happen, sometimes even the day prior or day of your plans.
If you're staying at a Disney resort hotel, pick up a resort refillable mug for your stay! These mugs are good for the length of stay and can be used at the resort beverage station.
You can bring your own snacks into the parks with you! No glass items and no large coolers.
Want something for your room? Order groceries ahead of your vacation to be delivered to you when you arrive! You can also pack some goodies in your luggage. The gift shops & food courts offer some additional grab & go items as well!
Each resort room offers a mini-fridge, so you do have access to keeping items cold if needed.