Hi, Jeanine! I will gladly try to explain how it works at Walt Disney World when you have a Disney Dining Plan. I just hope I don't forget anything! First, you are not expected to tip anyone at a Quick Service restaurant, but you will for sit-down, Table Service meals. Gratuities are NOT included in your Disney Dining Plan at most Table Service restaurants. (The exception to this is when there is a party of six or more, which doesn't seem to apply to you.) Please note, there are a few specialty dining experiences which DO include gratuity in the price: Cinderella's Royal Table, Mickey's Backyard BBQ, and the Dinner shows (Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue and Disney's Spirit of Aloha). Gratuities are also included for Private In-Room Dining/Pizza Delivery. Otherwise, you will need to plan on leaving gratuity for the Cast Member(s) serving you.
The amount you leave corresponds with how well you were served. If you were given outstanding service, then I recommend a 20% gratuity. Eighteen percent is for better-than-average service. If service was just okay, then 15% will do. The receipt you will be provided to sign for utilizing your Disney Dining Plan will show you the total cost of your meal if you were not using the Dining Plan. You will tip according to that total, not just for the items not covered by the Dining Plan (for example, any alcoholic or specialty beverages). Often, the receipt will provide suggested gratuity amounts at the bottom. For the gratuity, you can leave cash, put it on a credit card, use a Disney Gift Card, or charge it to your MagicBand, if you have charging privileges linked to it. Happy planning and have a Magical vacation!