Hiya Brian! Welcome back to planDisney! We’re so glad you stopped by with another awesome question.
If you ask me, food is the most important part of ANY vacation. But, of course, that goes double when talking about a fabulous Walt Disney World Resort vacation! Whenever I'm headed off to Walt Disney World Resort for my next vacation, there is always one thing I am most looking forward to - the FOOD! From the delicious pan-Asian cuisine of Yak & Yeti Restaurant to the Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake from Liberty Tree Tavern, there is always something calling me and my taste buds back! Walt Disney World is FAMOUS for its incredible dining options, with cuisine from all over the globe, so let's get down to business and get you those Advanced Dining Reservations.
Some locations have tables that are designated for specific party sizes. So, in this case, there may be tables reserved for parties of three or more (depending on the size of the table), which is why you’re seeing availability for a party of three but not a party of two. Likely, all tables for two are already booked up for the date you are looking for.
I know it’s definitely a bummer to log in and not see your preferred restaurant available, but don't lose faith, Brian! Most of my visits to Walt Disney World are booked very last minute, so I hardly ever get to take advantage of the 60-day reservation window. Still, I'm almost always able to snag a table at some absolutely fabulous restaurants. The trick is to keep a super close eye on the My Disney Experience app as you get closer to your stay. We all know that plans on vacation change all the time. Since there is a $10 charge per Guest (though that amount is subject to change) for any reservation cancellation done with less than 24 hours' notice, most Guests are pretty diligent about canceling any unwanted reservations to avoid being charged. So, as those cancellations come through, you will see many dining times pop up in the days and weeks leading up to your visit. I usually open the app about 2-3 times a day to check in and see what's available, and this approach works really well for me!
Alternatively, you can try the Mobile Dine Walk-Up feature, where you'll be able to add your party to a stand-by list and be notified when your table is ready. How awesome is that? While there is certainly no guarantee that Mobile Dine Walk-Up availability will be available, it certainly never hurts to give it a try! Here is how to use the Mobile Dine Walk-Up feature:
- Click on "Check Dining Availability."
- Select your party size.
- Select the date.
- Under "Search by Time," click on "Now."
- Then, you can view the current estimated wait times for participating restaurants and join the list.
Once you successfully join the Mobile Dine Walk-up feature, you are free to walk around and explore a bit while you wait to be called. Just be sure you don't go too far, as the restaurant will only hold your table for so long.
I can honestly say that I have never had a meal I didn't love at Walt Disney World, and I say that as one of the pickiest eaters on the planet! So, no matter where you dine, I know you will have a delicious meal! We have many foodies here at planDisney, so feel free to stop in again with another question, and we would love to share some of our favorites!
Bon Appétit!
Diana