Hi there, Tiffany! Welcome to planDisney! I see you're asking about food at Disneyland Resort...you're speaking my language!
It's natural to split up and go in different directions throughout the day when traveling with a large party. That's why it's essential to have at least one sit-down meal planned each day, so everyone can gather. I always say that the secret sauce to a successful family dinner is not the food but the conversations with the ones you love.
So let's get down to business and talk dining reservations. At Disneyland Resort, the booking window opens 60 days in advance. I'm sorry to hear you're experiencing trouble. I do have a few suggestions, however. The first one is to split into two smaller groups; I recommend 6 and 4 since the system seems to prefer even numbers, but you can also try 5 and 5. You'll need to enlist the help of a friend or family member in your traveling party who has a Disneyland account, and you can both try to get reservations at the same location around the same time. When you arrive at the podium, let the Cast Member know you'd like both parties to be seated near each other, if possible.
Secondly, I find that I experience better success when making reservations through the Disneyland website rather than the
Disneyland Mobile app. Also, look at locations with a larger footprint that are better able to handle big groups. Some suggestions to try are
Lamplight Lounge at Disney California Adventure Park and
Plaza Inn at Disneyland Park. At the Disneyland Resort Hotels, I like
Storytellers Cafe and
Goofy's Kitchen, and both are character buffets. You may also have luck if you're willing to venture into the Downtown Disney District.
Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen,
Naples Ristorante e Bar, and
Tortilla Jo's all have family-friendly menus and ample seating areas.
I hope this gives you some food for thought, Tiffany! If you have any more questions, the planDisney Panel is all ears!
Eean