It's great to see you here today at the Disney Parks Moms Panel, Diane! It sounds like we have a lot in common because I also like to break out my calculator and spreadsheet to make sure that I'm making the right choices for my budget when I'm planning my vacation. I love the
Disney Dining Plan and I find that it usually saves me and my family a little bit of money so I'm happy to walk you through what's included.
When you're dining at a restaurant that is a
buffet or family-style experience where you pay one price and choose whatever you want from the menu, like the dinner you're planning at
Chef Mickey's, a non-alcoholic beverage is included in that price. Alcoholic beverages are not included but you are welcome to have the non-alcoholic beverage that's included with your meal and also order have a cocktail, beer, or specialty beverage and pay for that separately. If you choose to use the Disney Dining Plan, that alcoholic beverage will be included when you redeem your Table-Service credit so make sure that you're factoring that into your calculations! There are lots of unique and inventive cocktails and specialty drinks at Walt Disney World Resort and I like to try a few of them when I'm on vacation and that can add up quickly, which is why I always like to do the math on the Dining Plan to see if it can help me save some money.
Have a magical day, Diane!
Jessica