Clint,
The great news is that anyone, whether they are staying at a Disney resort or not, whether they are on a
Disney Dining Plan or not, can make Advanced Dining Reservation 180 days out.
While many people who have come to Walt Disney World over the years are used to making those dining reservations over the phone, by far the fastest and easiest way to make reservations now is by using the
online reservation feature of the website. When you search on that site it can even show you a range of available times based your group size and preferred time to eat.
Another tip to remember is that if you have a child under the age of 3 with you they will will eat free at many of the buffet and family style dining restaurants. But be sure to count them in the number of guests in your party when you make that reservation, so that Disney can arrange for a table that is appropriately sized for your group.
Now to the fun part. Where to eat? If you need some restaurant suggestions, write me back directly with some info on what you like, where you will be, and I can offer some ideas on the best places to dine!
Have a Magical (and delicious) Vacation!
Doug