Hi there, Julie!
Thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel. My family loves the value and convenience of the
Disney Dining Plan.
If you are using a Quick-Service meal credit for lunch or dinner, you will receive an entree, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage. The dessert and/or non-alcoholic beverage may be substituted for any item that is an eligible snack at that location. (You just have to do the substitution in same transaction.) That means when using a Quick-Service credit, you may be able to substitute your dessert or drink for an appetizer, as long as that appetizer qualifies as an eligible snack.
If you are using a Table-Service meal credit for lunch or dinner, you will receive an entree, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage (or one buffet/family-style meal). There
may be substitutions available for your dessert, but substitutions are not guaranteed. Just ask your server if any substitutions are available.
To answer your second question, gratuities are not included except at Dinner Shows, Private In-Room Dining and
Cinderella’s Royal Table. However, an 18% gratuity will automatically be added to your bill for parties of six or more. An automatic gratuity charge may also be added to your bill for certain items you order that are not included in the Disney Dining Plan, such as alcoholic beverages.
I hope this helps with your planning! Please stop back and let me know if you have any additional questions about your upcoming visit to
Walt Disney World Resort!
Wishing you many magical memories!
Erin