Kilimanjaro Safaris; Animal Kingdom; AA
  • On May 8, 2009
    Sarah from OH Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hello Anna, My daughter will be having her 4th birthday @ WDW and can't eat Gluten. I really want it to be hassle free for her. We have the DDP and will be there Sept.20-25th. How can I make her meals seam magical too? What about a cake? Thank you!!!!

    Hi, Sarah!  I understand about having to travel with special dietary needs!  It can be overwhelming and disappointing, but my experience with Walt Disney World has been anything but.  They seem to go out of their way to make sure your special requirements are met with little hassle.

    When you make your advanced dining reservations, have them note it on each reservation that it is your daughter's birthday, and she is on a gluten free diet.  When you check in at the podium for your meals, remind them of both things, although they are usually VERY good at noticing special requests.

    At each of the table service/buffet restaurants, a chef will come out and talk to you about what items on the menu are safe for your daughter to eat.  I have had a chef walk me through the whole buffet line at the Crystal Palace, Boma, and Chef Mickey's to go over the food options for me, and explain why some items might not be my best choices.  I have always felt confident that my selections were safe.  I also have a friend who is a celiac, and she has even had chefs offer to bring her something from the back at a buffet so she knows there has been no cross contamination.  They couldn't be more helpful!

    As for a cake, at least 48 hours in advance, you need to call the Cake Hotline at 407-827-2253.  Select the number to the restaurant where you are interested in dining, and they will connect you.  Tell them you need a gluten free cake, and they can have one specially made for you.  They do not answer the phones on Saturday or Sunday, so make your call during the week.

    Enjoy the birthday celebration!

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Meet the Panelist: Anna, New Jersey

My name is Anna and I am a retired teacher with a J.D., a proud Navy wife with 30+ years of experience, mom to three daughters and a son-in-law, and grandmom to three tiny Disney fans. I have planned vacations for all sorts of special occasions and celebrations, but I really enjoy DVC vacations, helping military families, and assisting those with special dietary needs.    Learn More About Anna

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