After 30 years of dining at Disney World, I’ve learned that while dining reservations can absolutely enhance your trip, not every reservation is worth grabbing.

Full spread from our meal at Cinderella’s Royal Table

Here at DisneyFoodBlog, we know that Disney World has some incredible food. Over time, I’ve realized that the best dining plan is one that fits your priorities, your park strategy, and how you actually like to vacation. You are spending a lot of time and money on food at Disney World, so you want to enjoy it, and also you don’t regret it! Here are five types of dining reservations I’ve learned to pause before impulse booking.

1. Booking a Restaurant Just Because I Thought I Had To

Some Disney restaurants can feel more like a “Must Do” than just a restaurant. Chef Mickey’s, Be Our Guest, and similar spots are often hyped up, especially for first-time visitors. And for many families, they really are magical, especially if character interactions or themed environments are high on your priority list.

The Grand Ballroom in Be Our Guest Restaurant

But I’ve learned that booking these restaurants just because they’re iconic can lead to disappointment if the experience doesn’t match what you value most. These meals often come with higher price tags, fixed menus, or a faster-paced atmosphere that may not feel relaxing. Tip: Before booking, ask yourself why you want the reservation. Is it the food, the atmosphere, or the photos? If it’s not checking at least one meaningful box, it might be okay to skip it this trip.

Pluto at Chef Mickey’s

2. EPCOT Table Service When I Really Wanted Festival Booths

EPCOT festivals are a huge hit with Disney visitors. With dozens of small plates, seasonal menus, and the freedom to snack around the World Showcase, festival booths let you try more variety without committing to a full meal. However, EPCOT also has some of the best restaurants on property. I’ve made the mistake of locking in a table-service reservation only to find myself rushing past booths I was genuinely excited to try. Table service can feel restrictive during festivals, especially when you’re already full or watching the clock. Tip: If you’re visiting EPCOT during a festival, consider skipping reservations altogether or booking just one flexible meal later in the evening.

Mexico Booth at Food & Wine Festival 2025

3. Grabbing a “Hard-to-Get” Reservations

There might be something thrilling about snagging a notoriously hard-to-get reservation, even if it wasn’t on your original list. I’ve done this more than once, only to sit down and realize I didn’t truly love the menu options. Restaurants like Story Book Dining at Artist Point offer incredible theming and storytelling, which can absolutely outweigh menu concerns for some guests. But food still matters, especially when you’re paying signature prices. Tip: Always read the menu first, and not just reviews. If you wouldn’t normally order those flavors or dishes, that reservation might be better left for someone who will truly enjoy it.

Desserts!

4. Booking Breakfast When I Really Want to Rope Drop

Disney breakfasts sound great in theory until your alarm goes off. Early park mornings are prime time for short waits and cooler temperatures, and I’ve often found myself wishing I’d skipped breakfast reservations altogether and just grabbed something quick. Breakfast dining can eat up valuable park time and add unnecessary stress to mornings that already require planning. Tip: If rope dropping is important to you, stick to quick-service breakfast, mobile ordering, or snacks you can eat on the go. Save sit-down meals for lunch or dinner when the parks are busier, and you’re ready for a break.

Crystal Palace

5. Dining at Other Disney Resorts Without Easy Transportation

Some of Disney’s best restaurants are located at resorts, like Boma and Sanaa, which are absolutely worth the hype. That said, if you don’t have a car, getting to certain resorts can be time-consuming and complicated, especially mid-day. I’ve learned that even amazing meals can feel less enjoyable when paired with multiple bus transfers or long travel times. Tip: If you’re relying on Disney transportation, prioritize resort dining that’s easy to access from where you’re staying or near the parks you’ll already be visiting that day. You can still head to these using Disney transportation, but be sure to build in lots of time to arrive.

Dinner at Boma

Disney dining can be magical, but it’s at its best when it aligns with how you want to experience your vacation. For more honest Disney dining tips, restaurant reviews, and planning strategies, follow DFB!

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What is a Disney World restaurant you regret booking? Tell us in the comments below!