Hello Erin! Welcome to the exciting world of Disney Dining! When we first utilized the dining plan, my husband and I had so many questions regarding how to best use it. Your question was one of our first questions to a Disney cast member. The good news is that you CAN use your dining plan towards character dining. All you have to do is set your reservation as you normally would by calling (407)WDW-DINE or you may do this on-line by pressing
here. If you are calling, let the cast member know that you are on the dining plan and he/she will make that notation on your reservation. Now, you want to be sure to ask how many table service meals each reservation is. For example,
Chef Mickey's will only count as one table service meal per person, but
Cinderella's Royal Table will take up two table service meals per person. This is why I love to speak directly to a cast member when I am setting my reservations. I want no surprises! Both of these restaurants offer spectacular character dining experiences! The cast member will let you know which restaurants count as 2 table service meals per person.
I hope this gives you a small insight into the wonderful world of Disney Dining. My family and I love what Disney has to offer and the dining plan really helps us stay within our food budget. Have a magical day!