Hi Susan,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel, and thank you for bringing your question to us. I have a
Be Our Guest Restaurant lunch reservation for my birthday this year, and I can’t wait to be back in that gorgeously themed castle!
Be Our Guest Restaurant’s Order-Ahead Dining is unique at Walt Disney World, and it works differently from the new
Mobile Ordering process. Guests visiting Be Our Guest Restaurant for breakfast or lunch may place their orders up to 30 days in advance of their reservation, allowing them to skip the ordering queue upon arrival. When you arrive, cross the bridge (don't forget to take a picture!) and stop in at the check-in stand. Let the Cast Member there know that you’ve ordered ahead, and you’ll be directed to a separate queue, where you will pay for your meal. Whether you are on the Disney Dining Plan or paying out of pocket, you will pay before entering the dining room. At this time, you are not able to pay ahead for your meal, but the process will typically still be quicker because you don’t have to visit the ordering kiosks.
Once you’ve taken care of payment, you'll receive your enchanted rose and enter the dining room. Be sure to check out all three dining rooms before choosing your seat; there are so many magical details, so be sure to take your time and really look around. Then, sit down, tie your napkin ‘round your neck, and get ready for the culinary cabaret that’s in store!
Wishing you a magical vacation,
Robyn