Welcome to planDisney, Lori!
Putting together all of the pixie-dusted pieces of our
Walt Disney World travel plans is a favorite pastime of mine, and those plans often include options for someone with dietary restrictions. Lori, at WDW, you'll be in great hands!
First, check out this link regarding
Special Diets Requests; you'll find lots of reassuring information there. We have a food allergy in our family, so the first thing we do when we check into a WDW table service restaurant is tell the Cast Member assisting us. Once seated, we'll tell our server as well. You can also ask for the chef to come to the table; they can help you navigate the menu and advise options that will keep you safe while dining.
At quick serve locations, we do the same. There, ask the Cast Member serving you if there is an allergy menu available. You'll be able to navigate your options once you see them broken down into categories.
I advise everyone heading to Walt Disney World with a dietary restriction in their group to do a little research prior to arrival. There are so many dining options, so while you might not find a favorite item at one location, it's quite possible that just a few steps away is a different spot that could offer you that perfectly delicious--and safe--bite.
To help you decide which restaurants provide you the best options, take a look at online menus and scroll to the Allergy-Friendly section of each. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised! For example, one my family's favorites is
Sanaa; we are all able to enjoy their outstanding Indian-Style Bread Service when we order their gluten-free version. For brunch, we aim to dine at
Grand Floridian Cafe where we can order Mickey-shaped waffles--without the gluten. Looking for lots of options at EPCOT? Check out the Gluten/Wheat Allergy-Friendly menu at
Regal Eagle Smokehouse.
In all locations, once your meal arrives, you'll note that there will be a visual marker in your meal. This could be a colored pick in your sandwich, or different-colored platter for your entire meal. Of course, always double-check with your server just to be sure it's okay for you to eat. However, I think you'll feel so much safer dining in Disney than most other places. It's so very refreshing to know that the kitchen staff and servers understand the assignment--and deliver deliciously.
Lori, as you plan your practically perfect in every way days at Walt Disney World, be sure to send additional questions our way. We love to help!
Andrea H