Disney World Food Tips Eating cheaply eating well and variety

Posted: 02/09/2007--25/11/2008 || Rate this Article: 3 || Views|| Sign In || Register ||Hello Guest

Walt Disney World parks have an abundance of meal opportunities from complete sit down service, counter service, character dining, buffets or simply grab and go. A large variety of selections are available to suit almost every pallet and, dietary needs or restrictions, once noted, are accommodated. Vegan, low-carb, no fat or allergies that may cause problems elsewhere will not be a challenge at Walt Disney World. Your budget, itinerary and preferences are the only limitations.

Try these tips for the least expensive, tightly monitored, though delicious budget meals.

First, stay away from the sit down service restaurants. Prices will be the highest and tips will be added for large parties, expected for smaller parties. But dont worry, great food and service can be found elsewhere.

The cheapest, and healthiest, food items in all parks can be found at the fruit stands. All parks have at least one and many have fruit carts that walk the parks. Apples, pears, oranges and bananas are easy to eat on the run, healthy and inexpensive compared with other snacks sold. Some stands also sell cut vegetables, melon slices, fruit salad cup or bunches of grapes; ask a cast members where the fruit stands are located as you enter the park and youll have a head start.

Save on beverages. Tap water is available throughout the park, though the taste takes some getting used to. Solve this by bringing packages of instant drink mix or iced tea bags to add to the water to sweeten the flavor. A cup of ice is free at counter service locations, so just ask, mix and enjoy. Bottled water can be brought into the parks if you dont mind carrying it around. Refillable mugs can be purchased to save on repeated beverages and rewards you with a great, practical souvenir. Kid size drinks are usually available for a discount, and even if not listed on a menu, inquire. Disney wants happy customers and if a smaller drink is all it takes, theyll make certain the cup size is perfect. Alcoholic beverages are available, though proof of age is required and you will pay top dollar; consider sharing to save money.

If a character meal is on the agenda - and its a great way for the kids to meet their favorites, make the expense worthwhile. Most character breakfasts are buffet style or all-you-care-to-eat but with a price tag of $10-$20, this can add up. Try booking the latest possible seating, around 11:00 or 11:30 and making the buffet a brunch. Fruit or a quick bite in the morning, a distraction of a show or park ride, then off to brunch and endless character autographs will keep adults, kids and budgets happy.

Most of the Disney resorts, with transportation provided through Walt Disney World from each park, have a casual and moderate dining room. Many of these have all-you-care-to-eat buffets that can be utilized as two meals. An early dinner or late lunch with a few fruit snacks can easily keep a family meal budget in check and the hungriest at bay. Utilize the Internet or Walt Disney World cast members to find the best bargains or to find the cuisine youre in the mood for. Everything from Italian dishes, fried chicken, to gumbo, Caribbean fare or even an African mix can be found. Consider contacting Priority Seating at Walt Disney World before heading out for the day. Many places will take reservations while others can simply recommend a less busy time.

Of course the simplest means of saving money is to bring your own food. Disney does allow food to be brought into the park. Supplement the meal with an inexpensive drink and a fancy desert to complete and include the Disney experience. All parks have lockers that can be rented if lugging around a cooler isnt on the itinerary. If staying at one of the Disney Resorts inquire about renting a small refrigerator before arrival; many resorts offer this service for a small fee and the asking. Stock up on supplies, bring what you need to the park or return to your resort room for a snack or meal.

Whatever method you select to stay within your budget, keep in mind that Disneys food service is outstanding. Good food, great service, outstanding selection and all at a reasonable price. Remember, part of the fun of Disney can be the experience at selected, special restaurants so consider all your options.

Enjoy!