Hello, Bob! Thanks for stopping by planDisney to ask your question.
When you are making a
dining reservation, Bob, you will need to include your 2-year-old on the reservation. Due to Florida state regulations there can only be so many people inside of a restaurant at one time and adding them onto your reservation ahead of time really helps the Cast Members have an accurate count and will be able to prepare for your arrival accordingly. The good news is that kids 2 and under are actually Guests of my pal, Mickey Mouse, and can eat free while you are at Walt Disney World. I always appreciated this when my daughter was younger because kids that age can be so picky and it's hit or miss if they'll actually eat or not. At all-you-care-to-enjoy restaurants, like Chef Mickey's, your 2 and under child is more than welcome to have as many of his or her own plates as they'd like. At restaurants where each individual orders a single entree off of a menu, like at The Plaza Restaurant, your young child is able to plate share with anyone at the table free of charge. If you wish to order your young child their own meal off of the menu, only then would you be required to pay.
Dining at Walt Disney World is one of my favorite things and I have tons of restaurant recommendations. If you are at Disney Springs one evening, I highly encourage you to make a reservation at
The BOATHOUSE. This restaurant has made its way into my number 1 favorite spot at Walt Disney World right now. The menu offers a wide variety and I promise it will please even the pickiest eaters. My current go-to is the lobster roll, served warm with butter and I always upgrade to the truffle fries. It's a must! The restaurant is situated right on the water and kids and adults alike will love watching the vintage Amphicars start off on land and drive full speed into the water for a joyride around the waters of Lake Buena Vista. Also, the sunsets from the outside seating area are just breathtaking. The restaurant has a laid-back atmosphere that is great for families with small children but it can also be a restaurant that you can dress up and have a date night at. It really does have something for everyone! Another restaurant I am currently loving at Disney Springs is
Pizza Ponte. This is a quick-service dining location that serves up huge rectangular pieces of pizza, definitely big enough for you and your 2 year old to share. The flavors vary from day to day but they do provide an excellent selection of old-time favorites and new flavor combinations to try.
Bob, I hope this helps you figure out a better count for your party when making Disney dining reservations. If you have any other questions or need more restaurant recommendations,
I'd love to help!
Enjoy!