Hello Amy,
Welcome back to planDisney! December brings festive decor and
seasonal entertainment to every corner of Walt Disney World Resort, making it the perfect time to visit. I’m excited to help make your trip as magical as possible, so let's dig into the dining details!
When making
advance dining reservations all guests should be included in your party size. This is necessary for capacity limits at restaurants as well as ensuring each guest has a seat at the table. I understand that your son has special dietary needs and will not be indulging during your Table Service meals. In many cases, he can join without ordering an item or being charged. However,
Character Dining,
Buffets/Family Style, and select other experiences that include an entertainment component like
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue will likely incur a charge as the overall experience is an add-on to the actual menu.
I recommend
reaching out to the Special Diets Team by email at Special.Diets@DisneyWorld.com before you arrive to discuss your situation. They may be able to offer an alternative or direct you to speak with a Cast Member onsite when arriving for your meal. I'm hoping you'll find the right solution for your family to enjoy magical meals together at The Most Magical Place on Earth.
If you are looking for some fun dining suggestions my family loves the atmosphere at
Sanaa at Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village, especially with a table near the window to watch the animals stroll the savanna as you dine. We also love the antics at
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (cross your fingers that someone orders a Kitchen Sink during your meal), as well as the overall vibe at
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant at Disney's Hollywood Studios. My kids still rave about how cool it was to eat in a car while watching black-and-white movies. These
a la carte experiences should allow your family to dine together even if everyone doesn't order food.
I hope that helped, Amy. Please come back and see us again with more planning questions. I'm wishing your family a wonderful visit this December.
Magic and memories,
Amy