Your Guide to Securing Hard-to-Get Disney Dining Reservations
Looking to secure to hard-to-get Disney Dining Reservations? You’ve come to the right place! With 38+ years of traveling to Disney World, here’s my guide to securing hard-to-get Disney Dining Reservations
Hey there, Disney vacationers! If you’re gearing up for a trip to Disney World, you’ve probably realized that snagging those coveted dining reservations can be quite the adventure. With hundreds of dining options, you’d think it would be easy, but some spots, like Space 220 and character meals, are notoriously hard to book. Don’t worry, though; I’ve got some insider tips to help you land those elusive hard-to-get Disney dining reservations.
Early Planning is Crucial
The 60-Day Strategy
Mark your calendar for the 60-day milestone before your trip. This early bird strategy is not just a recommendation—it’s your secret weapon in the battle for those sought-after tables. To find the exact date to when your booking window opens, use my Dining Reservation Date Calculator.
Online
Online reservations for select restaurants open at 5:45 a.m. EST. Start with the website, but keep the phone number (407-WDW-DINE) handy as a backup.
Phone
The back-up plan. If online efforts fail, try calling right at 7:00 a.m. EST. Sometimes, phone reservations can reveal hidden availability.
Remember, the key to success is booking 60 days in advance. This might seem overly cautious, but it’s essential for popular spots. Align your dining choices with your park itinerary to minimize travel time within Disney World.
Different Booking Strategies
On-Site vs. Off-Site Guests
Where you decide to rest your head at Disney World can have a big impact on your dining reservation strategy. Staying on Disney property offers unique advantages, including early booking perks, but don’t fret if you’re staying off-site—there are strategies for you too.
On-Site
The 10-day advantage. Staying on-site allows you to book dining for your entire vacation (up to 10 days) 60 days before arrival, improving your chances for later dates.
Off-Site
The daily booking approach. Off-site guests must book each day separately, 60 days in advance. Don’t wait until the end of your trip; options will be limited.
Advanced Booking Techniques
Prioritize by Difficulty, Not Chronology
Focus on the hardest reservations first. If you’re staying at Disney World, look to secure the harder reservations towards the end of your trip.
Tech Advantage: Computers and Multiple Devices
Using a computer with multiple tabs can streamline the booking process. In some cases, especially during peak seasons or for large groups, deploying multiple devices can be beneficial.
Booking During Unconventional Times
Consider dining during less popular times of the day to maximize your chances of finding an opening.
Splitting Large Groups into Smaller Groups
If you can’t get one reservation for your entire group, try splitting up into smaller ones. When you check-in, you can ask to be seated together or nearby, although this isn’t guaranteed.
Non-Disney Owned Restaurants: Direct Calls
Some non-Disney owned restaurants don’t release many seats to the Disney Dining system, so you’re better off calling them directly. Here are some numbers to keep handy:
- Homecomin’: (407) 560-0100
- Frontera Cocina: 407-560-9197
- House of Blues: 407-934-2583
- Morimoto Asia: 407-939-6686
- Paradiso 37: 407-934-3700
- Planet Hollywood: 407-827-7827
- Terralina Crafted Italian: 407-934-8888
- Raglan Road: 407-938-0300
- Rainforest Cafe (Animal Kingdom location): 407-938-9100
- Rainforest Cafe (Disney Springs location): 407-827-8500
- Splitsville: 407-938-7467
- STK Steakhouse: 407-917-7440
- T-Rex Cafe: 407-828-8739
Most Challenging Bookings
- Space 220 and its Lounge
- Topolino’s Breakfast
- ‘Ohana
- Be Our Guest
- Sci-Fi Dine-In
- Victoria & Albert’s (Chef’s Table and Queen’s Table)
- Beaches & Cream
- California Grill
- Chef Mickey’s
- Story Book Dining at Artist Point
- Homecomin’
- Character meals and signature dining experiences
Utilizing Tech Tools
OpenTable and Apps
In the quest for Disney dining reservations, technology is your ally. This section explores how platforms like OpenTable and other reservation apps can be unexpected heroes, offering alternative paths to booking your dream dining experiences at Disney World.
OpenTable
Many Disney World restaurants are now listed on OpenTable, offering an alternative way to secure reservations. If no reservations are available via Disney Dining, it’s worth checking OpenTable.
Reservation Alert Services
Services like MouseDining, Touring Plans’ dining reservation finder, or MouseWatcher.com offer alerts for openings, saving you the hassle of constant checking.
The Cancellation Game
Last-Minute Tactics
Even the best-laid plans can change, opening up opportunities for those still on the hunt for hard-to-get Disney dining reservations. leveraging last-minute cancellations to your advantage, ensuring you have a seat at the table even at the eleventh hour.
Cancellation Policies
A new opportunity. Disney’s updated cancellation policy (at least 2-hours prior) often leads to last-minute openings. Keep an eye out via My Disney Experience, especially on the day of your desired reservation.
Walk-Up Reservations
Though not guaranteed, walk-up spots are possible, particularly for smaller groups. Early checks on the waitlist options can pay off. Even if My Disney Experience says the walk-up list is full, it’s still worth checking, as things change constantly .
Utilizing a Disney Vacation Planner
Services Offered by Disney Vacation Planners
- Personalized Planning: They provide tailored advice and planning services based on your preferences and needs.
- Dining Reservations: They can book all your dining reservations, ensuring you get the best possible options.
- Monitoring for Discounts: They keep an eye out for any discounts or deals that could save you money on your trip.
- No Extra Cost: Their services are typically offered at no additional charge to you, as they are compensated by Disney.
How to Work with a Disney Vacation Planner
- Contact a Planner: Fill out the Free Quote for, and I will be in touch to start the planning process.
- Discuss Your Needs: Share your trip dates, dining preferences, and any special requests or needs you have.
- Let Me Handle the Details: As your Disney Vacation Planner I will take care of the reservations and keep you informed, allowing you to relax and look forward to your trip.
Advance Disney Dining Reservation: FAQ
Ready, Set, Reserve!
Securing those hard-to-get Disney dining reservations can be part of the fun of your Disney adventure. With these strategies, including the savvy use of apps like OpenTable and direct calls to non-Disney restaurants, you’re well-prepared for the challenge. Happy dining, and may your Disney experience be filled with unforgettable culinary delights!
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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop
I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!
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