Welcome to planDisney, Linda! I'm so glad you found us because helping guests prepare for the most magical vacations on Earth is our top priority. You have a trip coming up later this month, so let's jump right into one of my favorite topics: Disney food!
How fun to be traveling to Walt Disney World Resort with your son and his family. You're going to make some fantastic memories. But food allergies and preferences can be a bit nerve-wracking when you're in a new place.
Before you arrive, I recommend reviewing the
Special Diets Requests page. You can click on specific topics and read the frequently asked questions to help determine if you'd like to reach out to the Special Diets Team. Since your visit is in a couple of weeks, I suggest
emailing the address provided here as soon as you can.
You can also review
quick-service and
table-service menus online before you arrive to help plan your meals. Think of it as tasty homework! Typically, allergy-friendly items are listed near the bottom of menus, and plant-based options are usually clearly labeled.
My adult son follows a strict plant-based diet, so we've learned to ask plenty of questions once we're on site. Restaurant servers will be your first point of contact, so be sure to explain all your dietary needs to them.
Typically, servers will relay your requests to the chef, and don't be surprised if the chef comes to your table directly. We always feel like VIPs when that happens, and it gives us much-appreciated peace of mind.
As for plant-based options, I'm happy to say that most dining locations will have at least one offering that's plant-based. Look for the cute green plant on the onsite menus and get ready to enjoy some yummy food! We often ask our server if there are any off-menu options, and sometimes they'll have ideas for modifying a dish to make it plant-based.
Several table-service locations offer family-style meals. One of our favorites is
Roundup Rodeo BBQ at Disney's Hollywood Studios. Just let them know you're plant-based, and your entire
platter of vittles will be meat and dairy-free, while the rest of your gang can enjoy traditional fare.
And I've saved the best for last: Dessert! I highly recommend a visit to
Erin McKenna's Bakery NYC at Disney Springs. Your daughter-in-law will be ecstatic to learn that
every delectable sweet treat is dairy and gluten-free. And it's all plant-based, Linda! When my family realized that, I think I heard an angel choir singing.
I hope I've eased your mind about eating like royalty on your upcoming vacation. And remember, you're welcome to
bring your own food and snacks for an impromptu picnic in the theme parks. As locals, we put our cooler backpack to good use on Disney days!
Linda, it was a pleasure to meet you! Please stop by
planDisney anytime. Bon appétit!
Magic awaits,
Elaine