Hello there, Debra! Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your question.
So many people, including myself, have enjoyed the
Disney Dining Plan over the years and I know are anxious to see it come back to Walt Disney World. At this time, however, there have been no announcements made regarding its return. Disney is great about giving people plenty of notice so we can plan and prepare when it comes to these types of things. I feel like if an announcement isn't made before summer, we probably won't see it come back this year. Keep in mind this is just my personal opinion and it's really just speculation at this point. I don't have any insider knowledge to base it on. If and when an announcement is made, you'll be able to find out all of the details on the
Disney Parks Blog. There are so many different variations of the Disney Dining Plan and I am unsure of what they will look like when they return. However, I've linked the
main website for you so you can explore the options that were being offered before the shutdown last summer.
One of my favorite benefits of the Disney Dining Plan was having all meals and snacks paid for ahead of time. I never really looked at prices or worried too much about it. Ordering the most expensive item on the menu and not thinking twice about it was really enjoyable and added another layer of fun to a Walt Disney World vacation. One way to have a similar experience right now is to put money aside on a
Disney gift card that you can use during your vacation. If you put a little money aside each week between now and December, there will be plenty on it for splurgy meals and all of the snacks during your vacation.
If you are looking for restaurant suggestions, my very favorite place to eat right now is
The BOATHOUSE at Disney Springs. In fact, I've planned a whole weekend getaway just because I was able to snag a dinner reservation one day last month. There is something on the menu for everyone but the seafood offerings, in my opinion, are the best. My current order is the lobster roll served warm with butter and I always upgrade to the truffle fries. My mouth is watering just typing this out! The restaurant is set on the lake and the views in the evening are just beautiful. Even in December, you should be able to sit outside on the back deck overlooking the water, they have plenty of heaters out there to keep it comfortable. I think you would really enjoy a meal here during your vacation.
Debra, I am also anxiously awaiting an announcement regarding the Disney Dining Plan. Until then, I'll have my fingers crossed for you and me both that it is sooner rather than later. If you have any other questions before your trip,
I am happy to help.
Have fun!