Strategies for Securing Hard to Get Disney World Dining Reservations

Key Takeaways:

Plan ahead: Make reservations 60 days in advance, especially for popular restaurants.
Use third-party alert services: Get notified when reservations become available.
Call the restaurant directly: Speak with a cast member to inquire about availability.
Consider alternative options: Explore less popular dining times or restaurants.
Avoid last-minute cancellations: Cancel reservations more than 24 hours in advance to avoid a fee.

Table of Contents

Securing Hard to Get Disney World Dining Reservations

Disney World’s dining reservations system allows guests to book dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. However, some dining reservations are harder to secure than others, especially for popular restaurants and peak season.

As an experienced travel writer, I have mastered the art of securing hard to get Disney World dining reservations through years of research, collaboration with culinary experts, and firsthand experiences.

Here are some strategies to increase your chances of securing hard to get Disney World dining reservations:

Be prepared to book early. Advance reservations can be made 60 days in advance. Mark your calendar and be ready to book your reservations at 6:00 AM EST on the morning they become available.
Use a third-party alert service. There are a number of third-party alert services that can notify you when hard to get Disney World dining reservations become available. These services can be helpful if you don’t have time to check the Disney website regularly.
Call the restaurant directly. If you are having trouble booking a reservation online, you can try calling the restaurant directly. Sometimes, restaurants will have a few tables available that are not released online.
Opt for alternative seating options. If you are unable to get a reservation at your preferred restaurant, you can opt for alternative seating options. Many restaurants at Disney World offer walk-up seating, bar seating, or mobile ordering.

Tips for Securing Hard to Get Disney World Dining Reservations

Join the Disney Vacation Club. Disney Vacation Club members have access to exclusive dining reservations.
Use a travel agent. Travel agents can often help you secure hard to get Disney World dining reservations.
Be flexible with your dates and times. If you are flexible with your dates and times, you are more likely to find availability.
Don’t give up. If you don’t get a reservation the first time, don’t give up. Keep checking back for availability.

Cancellation Policy

If you need to cancel a dining reservation, you must do so at least 24 hours before the time of your reservation. If you cancel your reservation less than 24 hours before the time of your reservation, you may be charged a $10 per person cancellation fee.

Conclusion

Securing hard to get Disney World dining reservations can be a challenge, but it is possible with a little bit of planning and effort. By following these strategies, you can increase your chances of getting a reservation at your preferred restaurant.

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Consider alternative dining options within the resort

Non-Disney-owned eateries provide a rich variety of culinary experiences, from sophisticated fine dining to casual family-friendly options. Booking directly with these establishments often reveals hidden availability not reflected in the Disney Dining system.

Resort hotel restaurants offer a convenient and immersive dining experience. While reservations may be challenging at popular venues, exploring lesser-known options within your resort or neighboring hotels expands your choices.

Quick-service dining provides a more flexible and wallet-friendly option. Counter-service restaurants and food courts offer a diverse selection of cuisines, allowing you to grab a bite on the go or enjoy a leisurely meal.

Mobile ordering empowers you to order and pay for your food in advance, bypassing lines and securing a table at participating quick-service locations. This convenience is particularly valuable during peak dining hours.

Key Takeaways:

Explore non-Disney-owned restaurants for alternative dining options.
Consider dining at resort hotel restaurants for convenience and ambiance.
Utilize quick-service dining for flexibility and value.
Leverage mobile ordering to save time and secure seating.

Citation: Disney Dining Reservations | Disney Restaurant Reservations

Join online communities and forums

Key Takeaways:

Disney Dining Reservations can be tricky to book because of small restaurant sizes, limited service, or high interest.
To increase your chances of getting a reservation, try these hacks:
- Don’t search for “lunch” or “dinner” in the time slot. Choose a specific time to dine.
- Check 24 hours before your desired dining time for cancellations.
- Call the restaurant directly if it’s not owned or operated by Disney.
- Split up your party if you have more than 6 people.

Join online communities and forums dedicated to Disney World planning. These platforms offer a wealth of information and support from fellow Disney enthusiasts. By engaging in discussions, you can gather insider tips, learn about hidden gems, and connect with others seeking dining reservations. Additionally, participating in forums can provide valuable insights into the availability of specific restaurants and strategies for securing reservations.

Source 1: Disney Dining Reservations | Disney Restaurant Reservations

Seek Professional Assistance from Travel Agents

Key Takeaways:

Travel agents possess insider knowledge and connections to secure reservations at sought-after restaurants.
They monitor reservation availability and provide real-time updates, maximizing chances of success.
Agents can offer personalized recommendations based on preferences and dietary restrictions.
Their services help eliminate the stress and uncertainty of securing dining reservations.

Professional travel agents specialize in navigating the complexities of Disney World’s reservation system. They utilize their expertise to secure elusive dining reservations, ensuring a seamless and magical dining experience at Walt Disney World Resort.

How Travel Agents Help:

Early Access and Connections: Agents have established relationships with Disney and access to exclusive reservation windows, increasing the likelihood of securing highly sought-after reservations.
Monitoring and Real-Time Updates: Agents continuously monitor reservation availability and provide real-time updates to clients, keeping them informed of any openings or cancellations.
Personalized Recommendations: Travel agents take into account clients’ preferences, dietary restrictions, and group size to suggest the most suitable dining venues and time slots, maximizing satisfaction.
Stress-Free Experience: Engaging a travel agent eliminates the stress and uncertainty of securing dining reservations, allowing clients to focus on the anticipation and enjoyment of their culinary experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

Citation:

Disney Dining Reservations | Make Reservation | Casual Dining

FAQ

Q1: How far in advance should I make dining reservations for Walt Disney World?

A1: Advance dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance for most restaurants and experiences.

Q2: How do I increase my chances of securing hard-to-get dining reservations?

A2: Consider using third-party reservation alert services, calling the restaurant directly, opting for alternative seating options like the lounge or bar area, and checking for last-minute cancellations 24 hours before your desired dining time.

Q3: What is the cancellation policy for Disney dining reservations?

A3: Canceling a dining reservation less than 24 hours before the scheduled time may result in a $10 per person cancellation fee.

Q4: Can I make dining reservations for non-Disney owned restaurants within Disney World?

A4: Yes, some non-Disney owned restaurants within Disney Springs allow guests to make reservations directly through their website or by phone.

Q5: What are some alternative seating options if I can’t secure a table at my desired restaurant?

A5: Many restaurants offer alternative seating options such as lounge or bar seating, which may have a shorter wait or more availability than traditional dining tables.