Planning a trip to the Disney theme parks can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to making dining reservations. With so many delicious restaurants to choose from, it’s essential to know when and how to make reservations to ensure a magical dining experience. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Disney restaurant reservations, exploring the ins and outs of the system, and most importantly, answering the question: what time do Disney restaurant reservations open?
Understanding the Disney Dining Reservation System
The Disney dining reservation system is a complex network that allows guests to book tables at their favorite restaurants up to 60 days in advance. This system is designed to provide a fair and convenient way for guests to plan their meals, but it can be overwhelming, especially for first-time visitors. To navigate this system successfully, it’s crucial to understand the basics. Disney restaurant reservations typically open at 6:00 AM EST, but this time may vary depending on the location and the type of reservation being made.
Types of Disney Dining Reservations
There are several types of dining reservations that can be made at Disney, each with its own set of rules and regulations. These include:
Disney-owned restaurants: These are restaurants that are owned and operated by Disney, such as Be Our Guest and Cinderella’s Royal Table. Reservations for these restaurants can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
Disney Springs restaurants: These are restaurants located in the Disney Springs area, such as The Boathouse and Morimoto Asia. Reservations for these restaurants can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
Third-party restaurants: These are restaurants that are located on Disney property but are not owned by Disney, such as the restaurants at the Swan and Dolphin hotels. Reservations for these restaurants can be made by contacting the restaurant directly.
Special Considerations for Disney Dining Reservations
There are several special considerations to keep in mind when making Disney dining reservations. These include:
Character dining experiences: These are meals that feature Disney characters, such as breakfast with Mickey Mouse. Reservations for character dining experiences can be made online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
Special dietary needs: Disney restaurants can accommodate special dietary needs, such as gluten-free or vegan meals. Guests with special dietary needs should notify the restaurant when making their reservation.
Large parties: Parties of 6 or more guests may require special arrangements, such as a private dining room. Guests with large parties should contact the restaurant directly to make arrangements.
Making Disney Restaurant Reservations
Making Disney restaurant reservations can be a straightforward process, but it does require some planning and strategy. Here are the steps to follow:
Go to the official Disney website or call (407) WDW-DINE to access the dining reservation system.
Choose the restaurant and date you wish to dine.
Select the time you wish to dine, keeping in mind that popular restaurants may have limited availability.
Provide your contact and payment information to complete the reservation.
Tips for Making Disney Restaurant Reservations
To increase your chances of getting a reservation at your favorite Disney restaurant, follow these tips:
Plan ahead: Make your reservations as early as possible, up to 60 days in advance.
Be flexible: Consider dining at off-peak times, such as during the week or during the off-season.
Use the My Disney Experience app: This app allows you to make and manage your reservations on the go.
Have a backup plan: Have a list of alternative restaurants in case your first choice is not available.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Disney Restaurant Reservations
There are several common mistakes to avoid when making Disney restaurant reservations. These include:
Waiting too long to make reservations: Popular restaurants can fill up quickly, so it’s essential to make reservations as early as possible.
Not having a backup plan: Having a list of alternative restaurants can help ensure that you have a magical dining experience, even if your first choice is not available.
Not providing accurate contact information: Make sure to provide accurate contact information, including your email address and phone number, to ensure that you receive confirmation of your reservation.
Conclusion
Making Disney restaurant reservations can be a complex and overwhelming process, but with the right knowledge and strategy, you can increase your chances of getting a reservation at your favorite restaurant. Remember to plan ahead, be flexible, and have a backup plan to ensure a magical dining experience. Whether you’re a seasoned Disney veteran or a first-time visitor, understanding the Disney dining reservation system and knowing what time Disney restaurant reservations open can help you make the most of your Disney vacation. So, go ahead and start planning your Disney dining adventure today!
What time do Disney restaurant reservations open for booking?
Disney restaurant reservations typically open at 6:00 AM Eastern Time, 60 days in advance of the desired dining date. This allows guests to plan and book their meals well ahead of time, ensuring a spot at their preferred restaurants. It’s essential to note that reservations can be made online or through the My Disney Experience app, making it convenient for guests to book their reservations from anywhere.
To increase the chances of getting a reservation at a popular restaurant, it’s recommended to book as early as possible, preferably right at 6:00 AM. Guests can also try calling the Disney Dining Reservation line, although online booking is generally faster and more convenient. Additionally, some Disney restaurants may offer special reservations or experiences, such as character dining or special events, which may have different booking times or requirements.
Can I book Disney restaurant reservations online or through an app?
Yes, Disney restaurant reservations can be booked online through the official Disney website or through the My Disney Experience app. The app is available for both iOS and Android devices and allows guests to book reservations, check wait times, and even order food from their mobile device. The online booking system and app are user-friendly and provide a convenient way to manage dining reservations, making it easy to plan and book meals during a Disney vacation.
The My Disney Experience app also offers other useful features, such as the ability to check restaurant menus, make changes to existing reservations, and even cancel reservations if needed. Guests can also use the app to check availability and book reservations for other experiences, such as character meet-and-greets or behind-the-scenes tours. By using the app or online booking system, guests can save time and avoid the hassle of calling the Disney Dining Reservation line, although phone reservations are still available for those who prefer to book over the phone.
How far in advance can I book Disney restaurant reservations?
Disney restaurant reservations can be booked up to 60 days in advance of the desired dining date. This allows guests to plan their meals and make reservations well ahead of time, ensuring a spot at their preferred restaurants. It’s essential to note that some Disney restaurants, such as popular character dining locations or special event restaurants, may book up quickly, so it’s crucial to book as early as possible to avoid disappointment.
For guests staying at a Disney-owned hotel, reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance, plus the length of their stay, up to a maximum of 190 days. This means that guests can book reservations for their entire stay, as long as it’s within the 190-day window. It’s recommended to book reservations as early as possible, especially for popular restaurants, to ensure availability and avoid waitlists or last-minute changes to dining plans.
Can I book Disney restaurant reservations for a large group or special occasion?
Yes, Disney restaurant reservations can be booked for large groups or special occasions, such as weddings, birthdays, or anniversaries. However, some restaurants may have specific requirements or restrictions for large groups, such as private dining rooms or special menus. It’s essential to contact Disney Dining directly to inquire about availability and requirements for large groups or special occasions.
For special occasions, Disney offers a range of options, including private dining rooms, customized menus, and special decorations. Some restaurants may also offer special packages or experiences, such as character dining or wine pairings, which can be booked in advance. Guests can contact Disney Dining to discuss their specific needs and preferences, and a representative will work with them to create a customized dining experience that meets their requirements and exceeds their expectations.
What happens if I need to cancel or change my Disney restaurant reservation?
If you need to cancel or change your Disney restaurant reservation, you can do so online through the My Disney Experience app or by calling the Disney Dining Reservation line. It’s essential to note that cancellations or changes must be made at least 24 hours in advance to avoid any penalties or fees. If you cancel or change a reservation within 24 hours of the scheduled dining time, you may be subject to a cancellation fee or penalty.
To cancel or change a reservation, simply log in to the My Disney Experience app or website, go to the “My Reservations” section, and select the reservation you want to modify. From there, you can cancel or change the reservation, subject to availability. If you’re unable to make changes online, you can call the Disney Dining Reservation line, and a representative will assist you with canceling or changing your reservation. It’s always a good idea to review the cancellation policies and fees before making any changes to your dining plans.
Are there any fees or penalties for canceling or changing Disney restaurant reservations?
Yes, there may be fees or penalties for canceling or changing Disney restaurant reservations, depending on the circumstances. If you cancel a reservation within 24 hours of the scheduled dining time, you may be subject to a cancellation fee, which can range from $10 to $25 per person, depending on the restaurant and type of reservation. Additionally, some restaurants may have specific cancellation policies or penalties, such as a fee for canceling a private dining room or special event.
To avoid fees or penalties, it’s essential to review the cancellation policies and fees before making any changes to your dining plans. Guests can check the My Disney Experience app or website for specific cancellation policies and fees associated with their reservation. If you need to cancel or change a reservation, it’s always best to do so as early as possible to avoid any penalties or fees. By being aware of the cancellation policies and fees, guests can plan and book their meals with confidence, knowing what to expect in case they need to make changes to their dining plans.
Can I book Disney restaurant reservations for a special diet or food allergy?
Yes, Disney restaurant reservations can be booked for special diets or food allergies. Disney offers a range of options for guests with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan menus. When booking a reservation, guests can indicate any special dietary needs or food allergies, and the restaurant will do their best to accommodate their requirements. Some restaurants may also offer special menus or preparation procedures for guests with food allergies or intolerances.
To book a reservation for a special diet or food allergy, guests can contact Disney Dining directly or indicate their requirements when booking online through the My Disney Experience app or website. It’s essential to provide as much information as possible about the dietary restriction or food allergy, so that the restaurant can prepare accordingly. Disney chefs and restaurants are trained to handle special dietary needs and food allergies, and they will work with guests to create a safe and enjoyable dining experience. By informing the restaurant of any special dietary needs or food allergies, guests can enjoy their meal with confidence, knowing that their requirements will be met.