6 Restaurant Mistakes That Scream “This Is My First Trip to Disney World”

Dining at Walt Disney World can be… a lot, especially for first time — or first time in a long time — guests. There are hundreds of eateries to choose from, running the gamut from quick service dining to a MICHELIN Star-awarded restaurant.

There are also some mistakes that NEED to be avoided.

Not Making Advance Dining Reservations

This may sound crazy to Disney World veterans, but it’s not necessarily common knowledge that the only way to even try to guarantee the restaurant they want and the time they want is to book an Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR) 60 days beforehand. If you’re staying at a Disney World hotel, you can make reservations for your entire length of stay (for up to a 10-night stay) beginning 60 days in advance of your arrival date.

Not Using Wait Lists

While an ADR is preferable, there is a way to try to get into a Disney World restaurant without one. Specifically, you can add your party to the walk-up list for select table-service restaurants on the Walt Disney World app. Simply:

• Check availability at participating restaurants via the app—or by scanning a QR code located in the restaurant’s lobby. There’s no need to visit the host stand to check availability.
• Use the app to add your party to the walk-up list of an available restaurant. At this time, you can also confirm your party details, including special dietary requests.
• Once your table is ready, you’ll be notified to proceed to a specified location.

Not Taking Advantage of the Lounges

When people think about Disney dining, they usually picture big sit-down meals or quick bites on the go, but Disney lounges provide a middle ground. You can grab small plates, cocktails, and some seriously underrated meals without the hassle of booking a table.

Plus, they’re also a great way to take a break from the crowds and cool off in the AC.

Not Looking Into Hotel Restaurants

Firs time Disney World visitors will likely — and understandably — focus on the restaurants available in the resort’s 4 theme parks. However, there area slew of fantastic dining options spread across Walt Disney World’s hotels as well.

How about rooftop dining at the Contemporary’s California Grill or Topolino’s Terrace at the Riviera Resort?

Not Using Mobile Order

Why would you wait in the heat when Disney’s Mobile Order system lets you order food in advance via the My Disney Experience app and skip the wait? This is especially crucial during peak meal times when lines can get ridiculously long.

Not Reading Menus Beforehand

We’d definitely advise checking out the menu of your planned restaurant before your arrival. Obviously, you don’t need to make a firm decision until you’re seated, but it’s a good idea to have some options in mind and a general idea of the menu beforehand. This can be especially helpful for Disney restaurants with long menus that can sometimes be overwhelming at first glance.

Whether you’re visiting Disney World for the first time ever, first time in a while, or even first time this week, be sure to keep in mind what NOT to do when it comes to Walt Disney World restaurants. Stay tuned to AllEars for more Disney dining tips.

I Can’t Be the Only Disney Adult Who Thinks About This Abandoned Restaurant in the Middle of the Night

What’s the biggest Disney dining faux pas you’ve ever made? Let us know in the comments below.

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