Hello Kathleen!
Thank you so much for visiting the Disney Parks Moms Panel. You've asked about one of my favorite reasons to vacation at Disney - the food! Elastic waistbands are my best friends when visiting Walt Disney World Resort restaurants. I'm sorry to hear your preferred restaurants are booked during your stay.
Unfortunately, there isn't a waiting list for dining reservations, but don't give up! I have secured many last-minute reservations by being persistent. I will check daily on the
Disney Dining Reservations page for cancelations. Plans often change! I'd also check 24 hours in advance of your preferred date, because that's when guests need to cancel reservations that have a credit card guarantee on them to avoid a charge, so I've found reservations at my favorite Disney restaurants that way.
If you still have no luck and really want a certain Disney restaurant, then I suggest going to the restaurant to inquire if they are taking walk-ups.
'Ohana is my favorite restaurant, and I've arrived 15 minutes before they open for dinner without a reservation and have had luck. Also walking up during an unpopular dining time is another way I've had success. There are no guarantees, but it doesn't hurt to hope for some pixie dust.
Good luck! And if all else fails, snack your way around Walt Disney World. I promise you won't go hungry! I'm also happy to give you my best suggestions for hidden gem restaurants.
If you have any other questions, please come back and see us real soon.
Tania