Hi Shellie!
Sitting down and having a server bring you all the ice tea you desire is a lovely break and renewal during a full on park day. The chance to relax and enjoy a meal with the whole family is a needed contrast to the pace and hustle of the
theme parks.
Head to the
Walt Disney World website and hover on "Things to Do" and choose "Dining Reservations". Choose a date, a meal instead of a specific time, and party size of 8. The results will provide an idea of what restaurants accept reservations for a party of your size.
When my family of seven hits the parks, these are the tips I use to snag a reservation for all of us. First set your alarm and prepared to be online at
Disney Dining Reservations before 6:00 am ready to go when your reservation window opens, currently 60 days in advance. Using the steps above, especially picking "Breakfast" or "Lunch" over specific times, see what is available, and grab some great restaurants. I've found for large parties being flexible with times is helpful. Being open to lunch at 3:00 pm or dinner at 4:45 will open up more choices.
You may find you need to make two reservations for parties of four. Call a Cast Member at (407) WDW-DINE for assistance. She can make you two reservations for the same time if there is availability and note that you wish to sit together if possible. Do be prepared to have something to occupy yourself other than listening to Disney hold music; wait times are longer than usual currently. If you end up with two separate bookings, stop by the location earlier in the day to give the hostess a heads up you would like to be seated together; this will help the restaurant try to provide you one table.
Wishing your whole family a wonderful adventure visiting Mickey!
Elisabeth