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  • On Nov 17, 2012
    Sharon from MN Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi , we will going to WDW from Dec.10-17. At the time of reservations I did not purchase a dining plan. Can you tell me if the restaurants are typically busy mid December? What are the quick serve restaurants like?

    Sharon,

    You are going to find that the restaurants are busy at a rate comparable to the overall crowd levels at Walt Disney World. Since that time frame that you are coming to Walt Disney World is typically a lighter one (though it starts to pick up on your last few days there), you will find that restaurants are similarly busy, but not overwhelmed.

    HOWEVER, with table service restaurants you have to know that there are a few different considerations. Some are 100% filled up with reservations all year around. So the thought of walking up to Chef Mickey's or 'Ohanas, for example, and getting a table is out of the question. Others are going to be seasonally busy, so at your time of year you might get a bit better luck at restaurants like Biergarten or the Grand Floridian Cafe. But in most cases you might have to wait.

    As for quick service restaurants, you should find that crowds are manageable. In a few of the more popular locations (like Pecos Bills in the Magic Kingdom) you might consider dining off peak just to avoid the bigger crowds that amass around traditional meal times, but otherwise you should be fine. For example, dining at a popular quick service before 11:30 or after 1 makes life a bit more enjoyable.

    BOTTOM LINE: I like spontaneity in my vacations, but for any table service dining you are certain to want to do, get a reservation. You can always cancel, but this way you get some security in getting a nicer meal experience, and waste less time waiting for a table. As for quick service, just enjoy!

    And if I can help with restaurant recommendations, write me back with your locations and likes/dislikes. Those are the most fun questions of all!

    Have a magical (and delicious) vacation!
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Meet the Panelist: Doug, Indiana

I am one of the Dads on the planDisney Panel, and I love to help parents plan their vacation, with a focus on showing them how it can be fun for them too. I am also here to help Dads plan some nice surprises for the Moms in their life (they deserve it!). Learn More About Doug

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