Hi David, and welcome to planDisney!
Walt Disney World Resort and food are the perfect match. Most of my family's favorite memories at the Resort are intertwined with us sitting around a table filling our tummies with delicious meals. So, I'd be more than happy to give you some insight into how to make all of your Disney foodie dreams come true.
As a super planner, I definitely recommend that you make an
advance dining reservation (or two) up to 60 days before your vacation to the Most Magical Place on Earth. However, it is by no means necessary. I live very close to Walt Disney World, so I only occasionally tack on a dining reservation for my adventures. However, I recommend it for those long days when you'd like to get a break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks or if you want to have a unique dining experience.
Table-Service Restaurants: These restaurants range from character dining (my kiddos love
Garden Grill Restaurant at EPCOT) to all-you-care-to-enjoy family-style meals to fine dining experiences. Although you can absolutely grab a last-minute reservation for a table-service dining experience, it is best to get one in advance if it's a must-do for you. Also, don't forget that there are fantastic options outside of the theme parks as well like at
Disney Springs and at the Resort hotels.
Counter-Service Restaurants: If you want something that doesn't require an advance dining reservation that is just as tasty as what you can find at a table-service restaurant, try a quick, counter-service restaurant. One of my favorites is
Flame Tree Barbecue at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. You simply walk up to the restaurant, place your order, and walk to a nearby table to enjoy your meal.
Kiosks, Kitchens, and Carts: I love yummy snacks like DOLE Whips, churros, and Mickey-shaped pretzels that I can pick up from kiosks and booths from around the parks. At EPCOT, you'll find many outdoor kitchens that will allow you to try small plates to satisfy any palate. Also, you'll find the most surprising delights from carts like the Cheeseburger Egg Rolls in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park.
AN EXTRA GEM: Mobile Ordering via the
My Disney Experience app is an efficient way to purchase what you'd like to chow down on before you arrive at your next foodie destination. While my friends and I are watching the
Festival of Fantasy Parade on Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom Park, I will mobile order a Frozen Mint Julep Lemonade from Casey's Corner, so it will be ready exactly when I'm ready to enjoy it.
I hope that this helps, David. If you have any further questions about your upcoming vacation,
please give us a holler here at planDisney.
Magic always,
LeAndra