Hi Maranda,
My family loves using the Disney Dining Plan, because we feel free to try things we might not otherwise have tried because we’ve already pre-paid. We had so much fun trying new drinks, desserts, and restaurants on our recent visit!
I understand your budget concerns (a Walt Disney World vacation sure costs a few pirate doubloons, doesn’t it?), and my best advice is that the restaurant Cast Members are there to make your visit magical. Don’t be shy – say upfront that you are on the Disney Dining Plan and want to be sure that everything you order is covered. Your server will then let you know if anything is an up-charge. I had been dreaming of a Lapu Lapu, which is a delicious cocktail served in a pineapple at Kona Café; our server let me know that if I wanted it served in a pineapple it would be an additional charge, but if I didn’t mind having it in a cup it was covered (I splurged on the pineapple – worth it!). Remember that, at Table Service locations, tips are not covered in the Dining Plan, so be sure to factor tips into your vacation budget.
Also, review the
type of Dining Plan you have so you’re aware of how your entitlements work. You say you have the “regular” plan, which I assume means the Disney Dining Plan, but check your reservation to be certain. You can track your remaining entitlements in your My Disney Experience app, which will help you with staying on budget. Also, when it comes to snacks, you’ll know items are eligible when they have a purple DDP logo beside them on the menu board, but remember you can always check with a Cast Member.
Maranda, enjoy every delicious bite on the Disney Dining Plan! Please come back and see us for more advice – your Disney Parks Moms Panelists love Disney food and have lots of tips!
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn