Hi Rachel,
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel and thank you for asking us a question!
I agree with you:
Nine Dragons is one of Epcot’s many (hidden) culinary gems. Typically, you can bring food alternatives to a table service dining locations if your kids are extremely picky. That being said, because Nine Dragons is one of several Disney dining locations that is run by an external vendor, they may have different rules. What I would recommend would be to discuss your kids’ dining needs when you check in for your reservation. No matter what, the chef will likely be able to customize something for them, even if it’s just plain rice and chicken.
If you’re doing a
Candlelight Processional Dining Package, however, you’ll be charged the full price for your kids’ meals, regardless of whether they’ve actually eaten anything. In order to get the most value possible out of your dining package, I’d recommend looking through
Nine Dragons' menu and thinking about what kinds of alternative arrangements you could ask for in order to ensure everyone enjoys their meal!
Have a Magical Day,
Lynne