Why You Don’t Always Need Dining Reservations at Disney World
Trying different table service restaurants can be a fun part of your Disney World vacation. However, there are a few reasons you may consider forgoing dining reservations for your next trip.
Greater Flexibility
Sitting down to eat at a table service restaurant can take a substantial amount of time out of your day. By skipping table service dining, you can have more time for other things like rides and shows. It also gives your schedule a little more flexibility since you don’t have to be at a restaurant at a specific time. You can just go with the flow. This can be especially helpful if you are traveling with little kids who can be unpredictable.
More Room for Snacks and Festival Food
Table service meals tend to be heavier, especially if you book any all-you-care-to-eat meals. If you decide to skip them, you can have more room for other fun treats like snacks and festival foods! With Disney introducing new seasonal treats for every holiday and all the festivals that take place in EPCOT throughout the year, there is always something new to try!
Less Money Spent
Even with annual passholder or DVC discounts, table service dining can be pricey. Many dinner entrees can average about $30, and that’s before considering any drinks, appetizers, or desserts that you may add. With most quick service dinner entrees priced around $15 and under, that’s a significant savings throughout the duration of your trip.
More Opportunities to Find New Favorites
Lounges and bars are great spots to go when you don’t have any dining reservations. While many of them offer menu items from their neighboring restaurants, some of them have unique offerings. For example, head to Enchanted Rose for the house-made truffle fries and a seasonal flatbread, or check out Geyser Point, which recently came out with new menu items like macaroni and ‘cheese’ bites, a vegetable burger, multigrain salad, and pineapple mule.
All in all, forgoing dining reservations during your Disney World trip can add flexibility to your schedule, some savings for your vacation budget, and a chance to discover some new favorites.