Kid's meals on DDP

[karliebug]

I'm checking out menus for our upcoming trip and I realize that DD,8 has to order off the kid's menu. The problem is -YUK!. They have really limited the choices. Many places don't even offer the standard chicken fingers or burgers option. The pizza places don't even offer the kids pizza! What's up with that? Has anyone gone lately and found success finding things their kids will eat.

[disneynewbeemom]

Many of the menus for kids are horrible! My children will eat mac and cheese as a side, but they are not accustomed to eating this as the main dish. I'm hoping for some more changes -- if they would just add burgers, hot dogs,and pizza all would be happy!

[PaulaMurf]

We were on the dining plan, the TS restaurants substituted whatever/whenever we asked, with no problems!!

The CS meals were so big that we usually split between us - this was the case at Pizzafari, Pizza planet (which does offer the kids meal pizza - its one menu only)

As a side note, the Mac and Cheese was GROSS it looked horrible (exception was Spoodles where it seemed to be homemade)

I will be posting our trip review as soon as I get unpacked, but I can try to answer any specific questions if I can!


Paula in CT

[MidwestGal]

The CS kids meals seem really limited now. We used the DDP two years ago and it was great. Kids had many choices. I was just wondering if anyone has asked for CS substitutions recently. I've seen several posts about TS places being very accomodating about substitutions.

[disneyag]

We went in June with the dining plan. It wasn't a good match for my 9yo DD. She would rather eat different foods from the adult menu than the limited kid's choices. Next time we go, she'll be 10, so it's not an issue. But, if I had to do it all over again, I'd ask to purchase an adult plan for her (I don't know if you can do this.)


BTW, at buffets, this isn't a problem, because you pay the kid's price, but he/she can eat anything from the entire buffet.

[Nancyg56]

I don't know. We returned January 28th and while the CS menus are not as varied as they could be, the TS restaurants had a wide variety to choose from. We went to Kona, Tony's, Yachtsman Steakhouse, CG, and Coral Reef as well as the character buffets. There was restaurant specific items on each menu and the portions were large. I thought that there was a nice variety for kids especially if you check out the menus ahead of time to make sure that you have chosen restaurants that include items your family enjoys.

[bicker]

I'm checking out menus for our upcoming trip and I realize that DD,8 has to order off the kid's menu. The problem is -YUK!. They have really limited the choices. The Dining Plan may not be the best choice for all guests. Indeed, for those paying cash instead of using the Dining Plan, child meals may not be a good choice for all young children, but if you're paying cash you can surely order an adult meal for your young child. That might be the best approach for some families.

[jdd]

I thought that there was a nice variety for kids especially if you check out the menus ahead of time to make sure that you have chosen restaurants that include items your family enjoys.

I've checked menus on a couple of different sites, and they're different! Do you know who has the most accurate, updated menus? I'm also nervous about purchasing the DDP for my kids - they're not terribly picky, but I'd like them to have some choices. Thanks!

[bicker]

The various site all rely primarily on volunteers, so at any specific time, no one site always has the latest menus for every restaurant. The two sites I use most both put dates on each menu, so you can readily tell which one has the latest version.

[NMW]

It's not the TS meals that are a problem. TS places have great choices for kids and CM's make subs all the time for people, not just kids either.

It's the CS places that have really bad choices for kids (at least that's what I think ;) ) Especially MK CS, for some reason.

[jdd]

The various site all rely primarily on volunteers, so at any specific time, no one site always has the latest menus for every restaurant. The two sites I use most both put dates on each menu, so you can readily tell which one has the latest version.

Can you tell me which websites you use? I've been on Intercot (which does not have dates on the menus) and AllEars.net which has dates, but the menus are a few months old and don't seem to reflect the "new" children's menu??

[bicker]

http://www.allearsnet.com/menu/menus.htm
and
http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningmain.cfm

[jdd]

Thank you! I guess I should have figured the "DIS" would have a good site!

[All Morganic]

It's not the TS meals that are a problem. TS places have great choices for kids and CM's make subs all the time for people, not just kids either.

It's the CS places that have really bad choices for kids (at least that's what I think ;) ) Especially MK CS, for some reason.


ITA!!! We just got back yesterday (8 days on the DDP) and I would have to say that this was my number 1 complaint. At the CS places we went to (maybe this varies at other places?) only had 2 choices (most of the time both were gross :eek: ) and the kids had a choice of 2 side items - either grapes, baby carrots or applesauce. By mid-week my kids were sick of all 3! I wonder how many grapes, baby carrots and cups of applesauce go uneaten and are thrown away every day in Disney?

I wasn't trying to take advantage of the DDP, but we noticed that CS wasn't split between adult and child so their were a few times that I ordered pizza or a hamburger off the adult menu for my girls to split. Shame on me, I know.

[jdd]

I wasn't trying to take advantage of the DDP, but we noticed that CS wasn't split between adult and child so their were a few times that I ordered pizza or a hamburger off the adult menu for my girls to split. Shame on me, I know.

You know, I don't see a problem with that at all. If that's all they're going to offer the kids, what else are you supposed to do? Personally, my kids won't eat chilled chicken with cheese cubes, and the mac n cheese would have to be Kraft (I'm sure it isn't).
Besides, if you shared an adult meal between two kids, that actually cost Disney less than you getting two kid meals (assuming you didn't use the kid meals anyplace else;) ) I've heard other people say the same about the CS meals - maybe Disney isn't splitting the CS anymore because of all the complaints?? I'm guessing they wouldn't advertise it, but they don't really have a "rule" against it?? It's a thought...

[TDC Nala]

Many places don't even offer the standard chicken fingers or burgers option. The pizza places don't even offer the kids pizza!

Pizzafari in AK does not offer pizza on the kids' menu. This is no doubt because the pizzas are mass produced and are all the same size. They do not have a smaller portion available to offer at a kids' menu price.

As was mentioned, Pizza Planet in MGM does not have a kids' menu. Kids on the dining plan may order anything from the regular menu. So there is at least one "pizza place" that does offer pizza for children. This is most likely because they do not offer anything besides pizza.

Don't know what would be wrong with Pecos Bill offering a kids' burger though. Maybe they're all the same size as well.

Have noticed that the CS places typically have two selections on the children's menu and these vary from place to place so there isn't any consistency except for the sides, which are the same everywhere (fruit, carrots or applesauce), although I understand you could request french fries. And the single dessert offered is almost always sugar-free jello.

[MouseTrip07]

We just returned from our trip and I would have to agree with a previous poster that my #1 (and possibly only) complaint about our trip was the meal choices for my kids. Both of them have never eaten so many grapes or so much applesauce. :sad2:

I also found it frustrating that at each CS that we chose had different policies about substitutions. All places but one (the Mara) allowed us to substitute desserts. The Mara did offer a regular Jello in addition to the artificially sweetened one-I think this is why we weren't allowed to substitute with something else (like a brownie).

The DDP was still a good value, I just wish the CS policies for kids would be more consistent and include more of the (junk :) )food choices that I would normally allow my kids to have while vacationing. ;)

Just my .02
Jennifer

[cdrn1]

I was sitting at the table last night with my little DGD age 3 watching her eat Linguini and Scallops and a Romaine salad and thinking, "no way would this girl eat chilled chicken or mac and cheese for a week". Guess the DDP is not the way to go for us...we would spend a lot of $$ OOP satisfying her sophisticated little palate! :rotfl: :rotfl: :rotfl:

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

Don't know what would be wrong with Pecos Bill offering a kids' burger though. Maybe they're all the same size as well.


And Pecos Bill used to be one of our favorites. Now we stay far away from there. Their CS for children are, in my opinion, the worst.

I still do not see why they cannot offer a smaller serving of chicken strips in the places where they have them on the adult menu. Four small chicken nuggets do not cut it for my two children.

[All Morganic]

although I understand you could request french fries.

Nope, not so. They wouldn't let us sub french fries at any of the CS places we ate at. We either ordered an adult meal with french fries and let the kids eat those or used a snack credit to get fries. There were no problems subbing at TS tho.

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

Nope, not so. They wouldn't let us sub french fries at any of the CS places we ate at. We either ordered an adult meal with french fries and let the kids eat those or used a snack credit to get fries. There were no problems subbing at TS tho.


Very dissappointing. Do you remember where you ate your CS's--this way I know where to stay away from.

[MouseTrip07]

I know last Friday (2/2) we were not allowed to sub fries at Flame Tree Barbecue on the kids meals.

Jennifer

[JulieEck]

We were able to sub french fries in our dd4's kids meals when we were there early January. I do not recall off the top of our head exactly where though. We only did that once or twice. I want to say that Pecos Bill did it though.

Edit: Just found my Pecos Bills receipt and we ordered grapes and applesauce there. I know we did sub it at least once, I just don't remember where. Sorry! I do remember hearing that you can sub FF though and it was in very very small type at the bottom of the kids menu somewhere. I remember commenting on it to DH (about how small the type was).

[NMW]

None of the CS places we ate at let us sub fries or desserts if we ordered a kids meal. They would let you use a snack credit though. I really believe that Disney will upset many guests if they seperate CS credits. As it stands now, if a parent says that their child can't/won't eat the 2 kid choices at most places, the CM's can let them get a burger (or something else) at their discretion. If they seperate them, I really think they will have people flipping out in CS lines demanding to speak to managers. And yes, I know these people could NOT purchase the DDP. But I KNOW that there are many families who go to Disney with the plan and have know idea that they could check out CS menus online, and would never even think to do so. When these people get there and find out that their kids have 2 choices (chilled chicken and mac and cheese-for example) at the CS place they have stopped at...well, not every one is going to be happy with that. Some may even demand to know why their kids can't get a hot dog or hamburger or pizza or chicken fingers, etc. At this point, the CM's can deal with this easily. If credits are seperated, they won't be able to.

Kids TS choices are really rather good, I don't know why the kids CS is so bad just about everywhere. :confused3

[bicker]

I don't think it would be a major concern. People purchase something for $10.99, they expect to get $10.99 worth of stuff, not more. You'd be very hard-pressed to find a child CS meal and a child TS meal that together don't add up to at least $10.99.

I don't think Disney really cares about the difference between adult CS meals and child CS meals as much as for TS meals ($3-$4 difference for each CS, versus $20-$30 difference for each TS), so it may take a lot more abuse before they impose significant enforcement of the rule.

[Suzabelle]

We did the dining plan for the first time in January. My DD8 wasn't crazy about some of the counter service choices either. I ended up sharing with her in most of the counter service restaurants. The portions were large and came with dessert. We did this in Tusker House, shared the rotissiere chicken and chocolate cake and Columbia Harbour House fish and chips as well as others. There was so much food on the dining plan, I was glad for the two of us to share. We then used some of the counter services to share breakfast also.

[Katiebell]

Hey, if Disney is looking for someone to revamp their CS kids' meals, they can PM me. I will come up with unique offerings CS restaurants that will make the kids happy, give the poor lil' guys some variety, make the parents happy, and keep the cost within Disney's budget. :laughing:

[mar915]

Well in the new Disney Visa rewards it states right in there about the healthy lunch and snack. It says in writing that "you can still opt for fries and sodas at no extra charge" for the kids menus. I will bring this with since my kids only like certain fruits and veggies and on vacation I let them have a little more fun with their meals.

[janets]

We just returned yesterday from a short birthday trip for my son (he turned 9 during our weekend). I had DDP for all of us (3A and 2C). This was our first trip since November (before the menu changes really started at the TS places). The CS credits are not separated, but we easily managed with sharing A meals between all of us. At times my 4.5 yo wanted the kids nuggets so I got him that. He doesn't eat fries much so I didn't bother asking if I could have them, and he won't eat the jello so I didn't get that either.

However, we faced our biggest challenges this time at TS. I knew the menus had changed and thought we'd be fine. The place that was the best was LeCellier. DS9 ordered the cheese soup and the steak. I ordered the tenderloin kebob and swapped that w/ his soup. So everyone was happy.

However, we went to Kona and Coral Reef (his birthday pick) and it wasn't as great. The "healthy selections" allow for no substitutions...servers specifically stated that. So even if he wanted the macaroni w/ beef and cheese, he didn't want the appetizer or dessert. So we had to opt for the choose your own side. The m&c is now the same as offered at CS places (very thick, cheesy and I'm sorry, kind of gloppy). CR used to offer something called Triton's pasta with a choice of cheese sauce or marinara (so you could control the amount). No more. The fish was mahi mahi, which he won't eat, and the one of the healthy choices was fish also so he was really limited. So he got the soup (which he loves) and got the grilled chicken breast, with mashed potatoes and broccoli. I ordered the prime rib and agreed to swap some with him.

The dinner came out and there was 1 single broccoli floret on the plate. Not a serving, but a single floret. The chicken breast was small, and when I tried it, overdone and dried out. I couldn't eat it and certainly wouldn't have expected a 9 yo to want it either. I was very disappointed with this selection. DS4.5 ordered the pizza w/o chicken as a selection options and he ate some, but DS9 realized that he should have gotten something like that. However, most places don't offer it as a choose your own (only a preplated choice).

I think that if this trend continues, we will not be purchasing DDP again. Our son was too unhappy that there wasn't more that he liked on the menus and frankly, they are basically the same ones over and over again. I just think that we've perhaps outgrown it for a period of time now and we'll have to rethink it in the future when DS ages out of the kids meal.

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

We just returned yesterday from a short birthday trip for my son (he turned 9 during our weekend). I had DDP for all of us (3A and 2C). This was our first trip since November (before the menu changes really started at the TS places). The CS credits are not separated, but we easily managed with sharing A meals between all of us. At times my 4.5 yo wanted the kids nuggets so I got him that. He doesn't eat fries much so I didn't bother asking if I could have them, and he won't eat the jello so I didn't get that either.

However, we faced our biggest challenges this time at TS. I knew the menus had changed and thought we'd be fine. The place that was the best was LeCellier. DS9 ordered the cheese soup and the steak. I ordered the tenderloin kebob and swapped that w/ his soup. So everyone was happy.

However, we went to Kona and Coral Reef (his birthday pick) and it wasn't as great. The "healthy selections" allow for no substitutions...servers specifically stated that. So even if he wanted the macaroni w/ beef and cheese, he didn't want the appetizer or dessert. So we had to opt for the choose your own side. The m&c is now the same as offered at CS places (very thick, cheesy and I'm sorry, kind of gloppy). CR used to offer something called Triton's pasta with a choice of cheese sauce or marinara (so you could control the amount). No more. The fish was mahi mahi, which he won't eat, and the one of the healthy choices was fish also so he was really limited. So he got the soup (which he loves) and got the grilled chicken breast, with mashed potatoes and broccoli. I ordered the prime rib and agreed to swap some with him.

The dinner came out and there was 1 single broccoli floret on the plate. Not a serving, but a single floret. The chicken breast was small, and when I tried it, overdone and dried out. I couldn't eat it and certainly wouldn't have expected a 9 yo to want it either. I was very disappointed with this selection. DS4.5 ordered the pizza w/o chicken as a selection options and he ate some, but DS9 realized that he should have gotten something like that. However, most places don't offer it as a choose your own (only a preplated choice).

I think that if this trend continues, we will not be purchasing DDP again. Our son was too unhappy that there wasn't more that he liked on the menus and frankly, they are basically the same ones over and over again. I just think that we've perhaps outgrown it for a period of time now and we'll have to rethink it in the future when DS ages out of the kids meal.


Thanks for the heads up regarding Coral Reef. I might have to re-think dining there for our next tripl.

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

Hey, if Disney is looking for someone to revamp their CS kids' meals, they can PM me. I will come up with unique offerings CS restaurants that will make the kids happy, give the poor lil' guys some variety, make the parents happy, and keep the cost within Disney's budget. :laughing:

And I would be more than happy to help you. I really hope they make some changes in this plan before our next trip.

[bicker]

The dinner came out and there was 1 single broccoli floret on the plate. Not a serving, but a single floret. The chicken breast was small, and when I tried it, overdone and dried out. I couldn't eat it and certainly wouldn't have expected a 9 yo to want it either. I was very disappointed with this selection. ... I think that if this trend continues, we will not be purchasing DDP again.Though this issue is not a Dining Plan issue, but just a regular dining issue. The alternative would be to buy adult meals for him...

[Lewisc]

The problem is making sure the meal isn't attractive to adults and older kids who might be looking for a less expensive meal. Disney isn't willing/able to enforce the age rule on kids meals, particularly CS. Restaurants, including Disney, discount kids meals by more than just the savings from smaller portions.



Hey, if Disney is looking for someone to revamp their CS kids' meals, they can PM me. I will come up with unique offerings CS restaurants that will make the kids happy, give the poor lil' guys some variety, make the parents happy, and keep the cost within Disney's budget. :laughing:

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

The problem is making sure the meal isn't attractive to adults and older kids who might be looking for a less expensive meal. Disney isn't willing/able to enforce the age rule on kids meals, particularly CS. Restaurants, including Disney, discount kids meals by more than just the savings from smaller portions.

But by doing this, unfortunately, they are also not making the choices attractive to the typical 7, 8 & 9 year old. My children will be turning 8 & 9 during our next trip and I know already that unless things change, I will be paying alot out of pocket for them.

[bicker]

I think the point is that, apparently, that won't matter enough, while the converse will matter -- i.e., they lose less money this way than they'd lose the other way.

[All Morganic]

Well in the new Disney Visa rewards it states right in there about the healthy lunch and snack. It says in writing that "you can still opt for fries and sodas at no extra charge" for the kids menus. I will bring this with since my kids only like certain fruits and veggies and on vacation I let them have a little more fun with their meals.

Yes, on TS meals you can sub (you can also get soda.) We were told NO SUBSTITUTIONS at any of the CS meals we ate at: Columbia Harbour House, Flame Tree BBQ, Tusker House, ABC Commisary and Roaring Fork. We usually ordered something with fries and shared it with our kids, or used a snack credit to get extra fries. Maybe there are some CS meals that are allowing substitutions (sounds like maybe Pecos Bills :confused3 ) but not that we found. This was last week when we were there.

Again, at TS there was no problem substituting and we found most restaurant to be rather accomodating. No complaint there :) .

[jdd]

First, I want to say that I agree that the CS kids' choices stink. However, I've been around the boards this evening and have noticed that the snack credits are really great. We went in November 2005, and could not get then what you can get now. We're going for 6 nights - 2 adults and 3 kids (one is 2, so no plan for him) which means we get 24 snack credits. I just read that you can get an eight-pack of Entenmann's donuts for ONE snack credit! That will be breakfast for all of us for 2 mornings (granted we're small breakfast eaters!) You can also use snack credits on soft pretzels, ice cream cones, popcorn, fruit bowls, lots of pastries, etc. I think I'd be happy giving my CS credits to my kids, and just eating snacks:)

Here's the link to the snacks thread http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1109080

This makes me much happier about doing the DDP:woohoo:

[Katiebell]

The problem is making sure the meal isn't attractive to adults and older kids who might be looking for a less expensive meal. Disney isn't willing/able to enforce the age rule on kids meals, particularly CS. Restaurants, including Disney, discount kids meals by more than just the savings from smaller portions.

I hope we aren't forgetting, while we discuss business, and profit, and the bottom line...that Disney is supposed to be a fun and pleasant place for children? ;) CS offerings for guests age 9 and under shouldn't have to be nauseating (like that yummy sounding "chilled chicken") to discourage adults from ordering kiddie meals for themselves.

Most major fast food restaurants have managed to make a profit by offering kids meals that have something palatable that children actually want to eat. I think they could offer at every counter service a kid's burger, chicken strips, pb&j, and mini cheese pizza -- standard, across the board -- and then one or two other entrees, like a small ham or turkey sub, or mac and cheese, or something appropriate to the restaurant's theme, like a BBQ chicken leg at Flame Tree. All three of those items are offered at Sunshine Seasons, so Disney definitely knows how to make those entrees into kid's meals. And some more choices on the sides, like a fruit rollup, or a small pack of trail mix, a package of teddy grahams, a cup of yogurt, or a cup of fruit like diced peaches or mandarin oranges. It doesn't have to be anything gourmet, but if your family is staying for a week at Disney, there are only so many cups of applesauce and sugar free Jello a kid can take. Unless Disney's intention is that parents will give up by the second day and just start paying OOP for adult meals for their kids.

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

I hope we aren't forgetting, while we discuss business, and profit, and the bottom line...that Disney is supposed to be a fun and pleasant place for children? ;) CS offerings for guests age 9 and under shouldn't have to be nauseating (like that yummy sounding "chilled chicken") to discourage adults from ordering kiddie meals for themselves.

Most major fast food restaurants have managed to make a profit by offering kids meals that have something palatable that children actually want to eat. I think they could offer at every counter service a kid's burger, chicken strips, pb&j, and mini cheese pizza -- standard, across the board -- and then one or two other entrees, like a small ham or turkey sub, or mac and cheese, or something appropriate to the restaurant's theme, like a BBQ chicken leg at Flame Tree. All three of those items are offered at Sunshine Seasons, so Disney definitely knows how to make those entrees into kid's meals. And some more choices on the sides, like a fruit rollup, or a small pack of trail mix, a package of teddy grahams, a cup of yogurt, or a cup of fruit like diced peaches or mandarin oranges. It doesn't have to be anything gourmet, but if your family is staying for a week at Disney, there are only so many cups of applesauce and sugar free Jello a kid can take. Unless Disney's intention is that parents will give up by the second day and just start paying OOP for adult meals for their kids.

I could not agree more.

[bicker]

I hope we aren't forgetting, while we discuss business, and profit, and the bottom line...that Disney is supposed to be a fun and pleasant place for children? ;) It is. It absolutely is. I think you're reading a lot more into what's being discussed than is actual, and I believe a lot of people allow minor annoyances to adversely affect their vacations in unfounded ways.

CS offerings for guests age 9 and under shouldn't have to be nauseating (like that yummy sounding "chilled chicken")It's not "nauseating". That's hyperbole, and all hyperbole does adds more emotion/less logic to the discussion. Some children, like my DN6, actually prefer bland food.... to discourage adults from ordering kiddie meals for themselves. As Lewis suggested, blame greedy adults who have been abusing Disney's generosity for decades. I can point you towards dozens of threads that show the kind of behavior we're referring to, if you'd like.

Most major fast food restaurants have managed to make a profit by offering kids meals that have something palatable that children actually want to eat.Most fast food restaurants haven't had to deal with the kind of behavior on the part of their customers that Disney has to deal with. Many people simply walk into the theme parks with a stronger, almost disabling, sense of entitlement.

[beth_cam]

I know I'm in the teensy tiny minority here but I think my kids are going to love the new menus. We go for 7-8 nights and If I let them eat sweats, sodas, french fries that their systems aren't use to having every meal, they and therefor us will be miserable by the end of the week. We will do a few buffets where they will be able to have whatever they want, they will have regular deserts and fries occasionally off our plates. They will have soft drinks some. They absolutely love grapes, applesauce, and jello and will find it a treat to get them everyday...as opposed to having to jump through hoops in past trips to obtain these without extra expense. They like to drink milk, water and juice. The like plain foods...they love plain pasta with maybe some parmasean cheese sprinkled on top (yuck) which I've read you can request if nothing else suits. That said they do love hot dogs and chicken fingers and fries but that is definitely more of the kind of thing they would get sick of seeing on their plate. I've also seen comments on the flatbread (?) pizza, well to my son pizza is pizza and that is what he gets in several of the local restaurants. I'm so glad that this actually seems a menu that will be less of a struggle for us to find what they will enjoy eating.

[jdd]

I know I'm in the teensy tiny minority here but I think my kids are going to love the new menus. We go for 7-8 nights and If I let them eat sweats, sodas, french fries that their systems aren't use to having every meal, they and therefor us will be miserable by the end of the week. We will do a few buffets where they will be able to have whatever they want, they will have regular deserts and fries occasionally off our plates. They will have soft drinks some. They absolutely love grapes, applesauce, and jello and will find it a treat to get them everyday...as opposed to having to jump through hoops in past trips to obtain these without extra expense. They like to drink milk, water and juice. The like plain foods...they love plain pasta with maybe some parmasean cheese sprinkled on top (yuck) which I've read you can request if nothing else suits. That said they do love hot dogs and chicken fingers and fries but that is definitely more of the kind of thing they would get sick of seeing on their plate. I've also seen comments on the flatbread (?) pizza, well to my son pizza is pizza and that is what he gets in several of the local restaurants. I'm so glad that this actually seems a menu that will be less of a struggle for us to find what they will enjoy eating.

My problem isn't with the grapes/applesauce,etc. It's more with the "main course" food choices - chilled chicken, mac n cheese, sloppy joes - my kids won't eat these! How about hamburgers, chicken strips, grilled cheese? I'd just like a little more variety. I haven't heard that you can get plain pasta at any CS restaurants (my kids love noodles), or any type of pizza (I think these are at the TS restaurants) My kids also only drink water, milk or juice. They don't like pop yet - too "fizzy"!

My plan is to see what they'll eat, but assume they'll be sharing with me! I also plan to use my snack credits for some good choices between meals.

[jdd]

I believe a lot of people allow minor annoyances to adversely affect their vacations in unfounded ways.

I would have to agree with this - though I'm not happy with the kids' choices, we're still going to have a fantastic time - I mean, this is Disney World:banana: My problem is I tend to overplan (boy, do I) and scrutinize every little aspect of the trip. Sometimes, it's better just to go and have fun!:yay:

[hollyb]

The childrens menu is our number one reason why we are not doing the dining plan. The food really sounds like garbage. We would rather pay and let them order what they want off any part of the menu.

[pezpam]

It's also not possible to satisfy everyone. For every person who says "Yes, but MY kids won't eat those choices!" there's another person whose kids will eat them, but would not eat whatever the original person's kids would. At some point, a choice has to be made on what meals to offer and it is impossible to do this without having some group making the above complaint. If the DDP limits you to choices you don't want, then maybe the DDP isn't for you - it's only one option......

My only real wish is that they'd up the quality on the mac and cheese. The places that make their own usually make it well. The rest all seem to be serving that plasticy, gloppy, Stouffers-ish stuff. It's not a DDP issue, but if I had some pixie dust to sprinkle on the food, this would be one place I'd start. :) Really, even high-quality, homemade mac and cheese isn't exactly expensive to make......

Whatever. The mac and cheese isn't exactly keeping DD from wanting to go back. :) There are places I can get her a burger, pizza, fries, whatever. I simply go through the menus and figure out what places work for us. <shrug>

[Lewisc]

The childrens menu is our number one reason why we are not doing the dining plan. The food really sounds like garbage. We would rather pay and let them order what they want off any part of the menu.

The kids meal plan costs $11. The snack is worth $3-$4 and a TS character dinner is worth around $15 with tax and tip. You can buy the kids meal plan and get your monies worth even if you pay cash for some kids meals.

[jdd]

If the DDP limits you to choices you don't want, then maybe the DDP isn't for you - it's only one option......


Actually, this isn't food that's only on the DDP - it's the kids' meal option whether you're on DDP on OOP. Otherwise you're paying for all "adult" meals. Gets kind of expensive...

[jdd]

The kids meal plan costs $11. The snack is worth $3-$4 and a TS character dinner is worth around $15 with tax and tip. You can buy the kids meal plan and get your monies worth even if you pay cash for some kids meals.

I agree - it seems a waste of food, but the DDP is really still cheaper IMO.

[pezpam]

jdd - I know, but when you're just paying OOP, you're a bit more flexible as far as splitting an adult meal between two kids or buying items a la carte, etc. We've gone with and without the DDP and, as <ahem> frugal as I am, we've found affordable ways to eat in both cases. It really isn't a matter of just buying all adult meals all of a sudden......

ETA: I think the point still stands that the DDP just isn't for everyone. That's not as big a deal as some would have us all believe. It's just one option among many and it works better for some than for others.

[jdd]

jdd - I know, but when you're just paying OOP, you're a bit more flexible as far as splitting an adult meal between two kids or buying items a la carte, etc. We've gone with and without the DDP and, as <ahem> frugal as I am, we've found affordable ways to eat in both cases. It really isn't a matter of just buying all adult meals all of a sudden......

ETA: I think the point still stands that the DDP just isn't for everyone. That's not as big a deal as some would have us all believe. It's just one option among many and it works better for some than for others.

Very true. I really wasn't sure whether I wanted to use DDP this year or not. My deciding factor was just that it's easier - I like knowing it's paid for up front and we (adults) can order anything off the menu. Otherwise, my husband would be adding up our expenses all week and not enjoying himself as much;)

[otoole]

I too am frustrated to read the menus for children now. Yes I realize that the DDP is still a good deal, however, it is our vacation and I don't understand how great meals can be offered for adults (steak, seafood) and yet children are expected in many restaurants to eat these meals. I am different that some families in that my two children 5 & 7 eat just about anything and enjoy sushi, seafood, steak, etc., however, they have never eaten PB&J, and rarely eat nuggets, mac and cheese and would not enjoy a week of these. So I have booked TS restaurants that will offer healthy and varied foods - BOMA, Le Cellier, Mama Melrose, Chef Mickey, etc. - (I had to select more buffets than I would have liked) but I am wondering if any CS or TS will simply serve a smaller portion (kid-sized) of adult meals.

[rolshuk]

I am a bit confused...how do Disney stop you ordering all adult meals if they dont seperate the cs credits?

[bicker]

Yes I realize that the DDP is still a good deal, however, it is our vacation and I don't understand how great meals can be offered for adults (steak, seafood) and yet children are expected in many restaurants to eat these meals.It isn't usual for abuse situations to lead Disney to take action that results in inconvenience for all of us, rather than just those who would abuse their offerings. It sometimes is just impossible to make such fine distinctions to prevent that. It's a shame. :(

I am wondering if any CS or TS will simply serve a smaller portion (kid-sized) of adult meals.Generally, expect the answer to be no, for the reasons that Lewis has already mentioned.

I am a bit confused...how do Disney stop you ordering all adult meals if they dont seperate the cs credits?Sometimes I think, with Disney, hope springs eternal. They hope that guests will voluntarily comply with the rules, and only take the kind of action I mentioned above in this message if they absolutely have to, to address substantial abuse.

[Nancyg56]

I hope we aren't forgetting, while we discuss business, and profit, and the bottom line...that Disney is supposed to be a fun and pleasant place for children? ;) CS offerings for guests age 9 and under shouldn't have to be nauseating (like that yummy sounding "chilled chicken") to discourage adults from ordering kiddie meals for themselves.


It is a fun and pleasant place for kids. I was a little worried about the CS offerings for children but decided to see how it went. Pecos Bill was the only CS restaurant that there was nothing for her....not on any part of the menu. We ordered fries with a snack credit and she nibbled on them. She found plenty to eat everywhere else and while the chicken was not always called "nuggets" the strips were good and there was plenty for her. I would not have described any of the food nauseating.

I don't pretend to know the inside scoop regarding Disney business decisions, but I would guess that as a company they are in a no win situation. Fatty high calorie foods for my kids? No way. Low calorie options with grapes and carrots? We are on vacation! Too much food! Not enough food! For every person happy with the selection as a whole there is probable a family that it is not going to work for.

We decided that $11 a day was a reasonable price for her TS and snack, and that if there was no CS options that appealed to her one of us would share our meal or we would buy her what she wanted. We felt that the CS was a bonus that was over the value of the plan. I know that others may not feel the same as we did, but there was no frustration for us at lunchtime, and that was my intention.

[bicker]

I don't pretend to know the inside scoop regarding Disney business decisions, but I would guess that as a company they are in a no win situation. Fatty high calorie foods for my kids? No way. Low calorie options with grapes and carrots? We are on vacation! Too much food! Not enough food! For every person happy with the selection as a whole there is probable a family that it is not going to work for. Not to mention the folks for which no amount of generosity would be sufficient.

[Katiebell]

I think you're reading a lot more into what's being discussed than is actual, and I believe a lot of people allow minor annoyances to adversely affect their vacations in unfounded ways.

Cranky, hungry kids can definitely adversely affect your vacation -- and the vacations of everyone around you, unfortunately. Disney does not want people bringing outside food into the parks -- no amusement park wants that. Disney does not want people leaving the parks -- they want you to spend your money on food, entertainment, and souvenirs at Disney. So it is fair to the guests and makes good business sense that they would put items on their children's menus that appeal to the majority of children.

It's not "nauseating". That's hyperbole, and all hyperbole does adds more emotion/less logic to the discussion.

Mea culpa, bicker. "Nauseating" is an emotionally charged word, like..."twisted" or "entitlement" ;) So, following your example..."We need a better word... how about 'unappealing'?" Comments posted here by parents who actually tasted their kids' food indicated that they found it very unappealing.

Some children, like my DN6, actually prefer bland food.

Agreed, many children do. Ask her if she'd rather have a sloppy joe, or a plain hamburger? "Chilled chicken" or chicken strips?

There is an illusion to the public that there are many different CS restaurants at Disney, when they are all actually owned by Disney. Are they even still "sponsored" by other companies? I remember "Casa de Fritos" at DL :rotfl2: But if they are all owned by Disney, it shouldn't be that difficult to:

~standardize a kid's menu across the board with tried and true basic entrees (ie: burger, chicken strips, cheese pizza, pb&j, mac and cheese.) They already offer these items at different restaurants throughout the park, so they should be able to put all or most of them on every CS menu.

~tweak the menu with an additional entree or two appropriate to the restaurant's theme (bean burrito or cheese quesadilla at a Mexican restaurant; small portion of fish and chips at a seafood place; BBQ chicken leg at a BBQ place; mini pepperoni pizza at a pizza place, etc). That way, the kids can feel like they are participating in the same fun "themed" dining as the rest of their family.

~and increase the options with other kid-appealing sides, like teddy grahams, raisins, yogurt, etc

As Lewis suggested, blame greedy adults who have been abusing Disney's generosity for decades. I can point you towards dozens of threads that show the kind of behavior we're referring to, if you'd like.

ITA -- having witnessed the horrid behavior of some greedy adults at DL, I do not doubt this at all. :sad2: The Disney marketing folks :wizard: and the Disney dining folks are brilliant :idea: I have absolute confidence that they could figure out a way to make the kids' meals more appealing to children without making them sound delicious to adults. I'd rather have a salad with my burger instead of a fruit roll-up -- wouldn't you? :thumbsup2

Peace,

[bicker]

Cranky, hungry kids can definitely adversely affect your vacationThen don't let them get hungry. :confused3 We didn't have any problem keeping our little one's fed during our trip last year.

they want you to spend your money on food, entertainment, and souvenirs at Disney. Absolutely. Most people who spend that much on fostering such an environment want to capitalize on their investment. They offer you what they offer you, and anything more you want you can pay extra for.

Mea culpa, bicker. "Nauseating" is an emotionally charged word, like..."twisted" or "entitlement" ;) Regarding "twisted" -- I readily and sincerely acknowledged that my wording was inappropriate, and we came to an agreement about a better word. I'm asking you to do the same with regard to "nauseating"... actually, not -- rather please just let me say what I will about what you said, i.e., that it was emotionally-laden rather than rational. No action necessary on your part. :goodvibes We really don't need to be talking about the discussion. :)

Entitlement is another issue. I use that word in a factual sense, not as an emotionally-laden hyperbole. If you feel my use of the word "entitlement" is overly-emotional, I think you may be underestimating the gravity of the problem.

it shouldn't be that difficult to:... I think you're missing the point. Please go back and read Lewis' and my messages again.

[Katiebell]

We decided that $11 a day was a reasonable price for her TS and snack, and that if there was no CS options that appealed to her one of us would share our meal or we would buy her what she wanted. We felt that the CS was a bonus that was over the value of the plan.

This is an excellent point -- for a child's TS (especially a buffet or a CM) and a snack every day, the DDP is a very good deal! I was specifically addressing comments about the poor quality/choices for children at the CS restaurants in general -- and I haven't been to WDW yet, I'm going by what's at DL, which sounds very similar to what many parents are describing at WDW. Since this is specifically a "DDP" thread, it's a bit off topic, so sorry about that :o

[bicker]

Okay, so how about this? Let's get rid of the child meals, as they are now. For the Dining Plan, let's charge $22 per day per child 3 - 9 years old. For cash customers, let's charge $5.49 for CS meals for children that currently cost $3.99 ($5.99 for $4.99, etc.) and let's charge $16 for child meals at TS restaurants instead of $7.99. Then, let's make each child meal a choice between a child favorite or a one-third portion of an adult meal.

Would that work out for you?

[Nancyg56]

This is an excellent point -- for a child's TS (especially a buffet or a CM) and a snack every day, the DDP is a very good deal! I was specifically addressing comments about the poor quality/choices for children at the CS restaurants in general -- and I haven't been to WDW yet, I'm going by what's at DL, which sounds very similar to what many parents are describing at WDW. Since this is specifically a "DDP" thread, it's a bit off topic, so sorry about that :o

No apologies are needed :thumbsup2. I know that there are a lot of complaints about the CS meals for kids and I guess that we were fortunate because for the most part, my DGD was happy with her choices. I think that while there are complaints here, you may find that in practice it is not too bad. Honestly, and this may not be the answer for everybody, but there is a lot of food in an adult CS meal. My family is not good at portion control on our own, so some of us shared a meal most days. There was plenty of CS credits to get an adult meal for Kady if we had needed too. My DD actually ordered a child meal for herself one day because she did not want so much.

I would encourage those who are worried to see for themselves because all the worries may be for little or nothing. We brought our emergency peanut butter and bread just in case, and the only one who touched it was my 29 YO DS, because he was too hungry that morning to wait for breakfast :rotfl2:.

[PeachesDoesHair]

We are not thrilled by the new children's selections. If we see a restaurant and all they have to offer is applesauce and sugar-free jello with a meal, we will probably just go somewhere else. We don't usually eat dessert twice a day, so I'm not all that worried about the sugar-free jello. My kids certainly will not be eating it as it causes dh migranes and it gives dd3 a headache. The new menu certainly leaves us desiring more, but finacially, if we want to eat at table service restaurants, it is our best bet.

[Katiebell]

Entitlement is another issue. I use that word in a factual sense, not as an emotionally-laden hyperbole. If you feel my use of the word "entitlement" is overly-emotional, I think you may be underestimating the gravity of the problem.

I think the reason why "entitlement" makes me cringe is its close association with phrases like "welfare state". :lmao: Without giving specific details about what I do for a living, I am a civil servant, I work in customer service, and I definitely have extensive experience with dealing with an "entitlement mentality". :rolleyes:

This will be my first trip to WDW, but I've been going to DL since the mid 60's, some of my earliest memories are there. I have no desire to go to any other amusement park; and really, Disney has totally outgrown being an "amusement park"...it's an immersive experience. People pay a lot of money to vacation with Disney, and for good reason -- Disney delivers. For the money I spend at Disney, I am "entitled" to a vacation that is fun and safe for my family. And that is exactly what I get. If it wasn't fun, and it wasn't safe...I wouldn't keep coming back, and neither would anyone else. If my kids were still little, and they didn't like the choices on the kids' menu, I would just order something for them from the adult menu. And it's something I have to think about, because in a few years I will likely have grandchildren to take on my Disney pilgrimages :earsboy: :earsgirl:

I think you're missing the point. Please go back and read Lewis' and my messages again.

Yes, I must be. :confused3 I went back and read yours and Lewis' messages again, and I'm not understanding :confused: How would standardizing the kids' menus across the board and offering a little more variety in the choices for side items be detrimental to Disney -- or Disney's bottom line? There would be the initial cost of changing the menus, and stocking and equipping each CS to make sure they could prepare those meals; but most of them would already have the equipment in place anyway (if they grill an adult's burger, they can grill a kid's burger). The entrees I suggested are already being offered in various locations in the parks, so there would be no cost to develop the menu items. And they could eliminate some of the less popular items. It would make the guests happy. Please be patient with me -- I don't have a marketing or business degree, I'm only armed with common sense (and yes, some would argue against that) and my experience as a mom. :) So yes, I must be missing an important point...please explain.

[Ms_Maggs]

Any kid will tell you that it makes NO SENSE that they can't order pizza in a restaurant called Pizzafari which advertises itself as a pizza place. And really...if you can't get what you want in the Happiest Place on Earth, where should you be able to get it??

As a parent, it sounded ridiculous coming from my mouth "sorry, honey, but kids aren't allowed to order pizza at Pizzafari, only grownups, They want you to have PB&J and sugar free jello".

I don't think *most* people are asking for HUGE changes to the system or any special treatment or entitlement, just for some basic logic.

I was just told that kids can't have Japanese food any longer in Japan (haven't verified), but if that's true, it's insanity! My whole point in bringing my kids through EPCOT is for them to sample the culture. Mac & Cheese isn't on the menu in Japan. Even as an adult, to see Mac & Cheese at my traditional Japanese table kind of snaps me out of the Disney Magic 'I could be in Japan' mode.

Common Sense is what I'm looking for when I'm at Disney or anywhere where I'm spending a lot of money to make my family happy. If my kids associate Disney with bad food, they're not going to want to stay there and eat. Then, we'll have to drive off and/or stay off property and Disney loses dollars for every hour I'm off resort not giving my money to them.

I like the DDP for its convenience, more than the price. By the time we throw away what we couldn't possibly consume, we probably break even on price. It's not having to open my wallet that I enjoy. So it's not simply a matter of 'Don't get the plan if you don't like the food'. We do like MOST of the plan, but it stinks to have one child feel so restricted while the rest of us get what we want when it would only take a few simple changes to make *everyone* happy. For instance, if I was asked to pay the difference between the kids meal and a pizza, I'd be happy to do it. I'm not looking to cheat the system in any way. That would really help out people who have healthy, active 9 year olds who need a bigger meal than a 4 year old too. Like McDonalds has a Happy Meal and a Big Kids Meal. Anything Mickey D's can do, Disney should be able to do better, or they shouldn't be bragging that they can make magic happen! :laughing:

[beth_cam]

Look back a year back before the changes and you will see the complaints. The pizzafari issue has been there since before the changes. Same thing with hot dogs, chicken strips, and hamburgers...hard to find. And on the otherside were the parents complaining about the lack of choices - everything came with fries we want fruit choices. we want baked chicken not fried... on and on and on. Well as I have seen printed many times this was atleast somewhat a misguided attempt to appease the healthier menu requests. They can not offer a wide variety of foods to children since thy have to offer it cheaply - not just by cost of product but ease of making. They would rather you buy the more expensive food to feed your child. They do not want the dining plan to work for the majority of people. Disney is not a service out there to make children happy. They are a business doing their best to do one thing - make money. They really dont care who we are or what we think as long as the money keeps coming in. They have changed their menus once and may again, but they arent going to do it because they love are kids and wnat to make them happy - they will do it when/if/because it makes good business sense.

[beth_cam]

I was thinking that now that they are separating the credits they should let you get the plan you want - upgrade children to adult if you dont like the kids choices...you want the kids to have all the choices the adults do then you can just buy the adult plan for them..Of course I would never pay 39 a day for my kids at this point but it might feasibly be an appropriate choice to offer. Or maybe something like the option to put everyone as there age says or book your whole party as adults. Of course again there would be the money issue but it does put that extra choice in there...And that is why the childrens menus are small and only 11 for the day.

[Katiebell]

There are really two issues: the quality of kid's CS meals, and the value of the DDP for kids.

ITA that Disney is a business, and their goal is to make money. One of the best ways to make money is to keep your customers happy. Disney spends a lot of money and makes a lot of effort to please and delight their guests. That's why there are all those fun and interesting details in the ride queues. That's why Mousekeeping folds the guests' towels into cute little animals at the Pop. That's why there is music, architecture, artwork, and food in each area that is "themed" to evoke a mood, and make the Disney experience wonderful and unique. Which leads to happy guests. Which leads repeat guests. Which makes money. :thumbsup2 That's why there are so many of us who aren't at WDW or DL, but are posting on boards like these, dreaming and planning our next vacations there. Disney's reputation for magic is well-deserved -- it sure ain't Six Flags. :teeth:

As for as the DDP for kids -- if your family does the average of at least one TS or CM each day, it's a bargain, hands down. The plan more than pays for itself. If your kids like the CS choices, still a good deal. If you aren't eating TS, and they don't like the kids' meals and you are paying OOP for things off the adult menu...then it may not be for you. If I was taking kids to WDW with the DDP right now, I'd plan on one buffet most days to make sure they were getting plenty of whatever they wanted to eat, use the CS meals for at least the drinks and whatever else they would eat from the kids' meals, and supplement with Snack credits for things like fruit.

[bicker]

How would standardizing the kids' menus across the board and offering a little more variety in the choices for side items be detrimental to Disney -- or Disney's bottom line?I see no problem with standardization, but also don't see that it would necessarily always be a benefit. (Many folks don't like the idea of standardization actually, FWIW. I simply think the advantages and disadvantages even each other out.) "More variety" isn't really the entirety of the issue as you've raised it earlier -- rather, you've indicated changes I would consider enhancements to the choices, i.e., making the choices more attractive in general. As Lewis explained, that would make them more attractive to adults, and then Disney's right back where they were a few years ago, with all the trouble they had with adults, interesting in saving money, intimidating cast members into granting them child meals. That's the problem.

(if they grill an adult's burger, they can grill a kid's burger)That's a perfect example. If they have a kid's burger, I know my mother (who I love very very much, but I cannot help but cringe whenever she does this...) will insist on ordering it for herself, and berate any restaurant server who dares suggest she pay more than the child menu price.

I don't think *most* people are asking for HUGE changes to the system or any special treatment or entitlement, just for some basic logic. However, they're insisting on logic that satisfies their own objectives, to the exclusion of satisfying the objectives of the business. In the mass-market, the supplier determines the offerings and the customer accepts or declines. Therefore, to get the supplier to change the offerings, the supplier must be better-off offering the alternatives, not worse-off.

Common Sense is what I'm looking forCommon sense implies that it makes sense to everyone, i.e., both sides. What you're suggesting perhaps only makes good sense from the consumer standpoint, and perhaps makes bad sense from the supplier standpoint.

They have changed their menus once and may again, but they arent going to do it because they love are kids and wnat to make them happy - they will do it when/if/because it makes good business sense.Precisely. Indeed, the recent changes rolled back some earlier changes, but note they didn't roll things back completely. They're being very precise and deliberate, basing the changes on what's the optimal set of offerings, given all they know (and they sure know a lot!) about us their customers.

[Lewisc]

At one time you posted information regarding restaurant costs. It costs just as much to grill a kids burger as an adult burger. The only savings to Disney would be less ground beef. My guess is the savings from a smaller roll would not be significant.

How much of a discount would Disney be able to offer if instead of a kids burger they offered a junior burger? A burger that your Mom could order as well as kids. A discount that is justified by the smaller portion. Would the discount even be a dollar? Will parents be happy if an adult burger platter is $6.50 and the kids platter is $5.75.







As Lewis explained, that would make them more attractive to adults, and then Disney's right back where they were a few years ago, with all the trouble they had with adults, interesting in saving money, intimidating cast members into granting them child meals. That's the problem.

That's a perfect example. If they have a kid's burger, I know my mother (who I love very very much, but I cannot help but cringe whenever she does this...) will insist on ordering it for herself, and berate any restaurant server who dares suggest she pay more than the child menu price.

[bicker]

$6.50 adult / $5.75. child: I think that's probably about right, Lewis.

[Katiebell]

ok, I'm starting to understand some of your points. And I know there are probably quite a few adults out there like your mom, bicker -- but if she insisted on ordering a kid's burger, then her side dishes would be apple juice and goldfish crackers :lmao: I dunno, maybe she likes those, too...

If Disney's ultimate goal was to make kids' meals unappealing to adults, they could always switch to chicken liver tacos with a side of brussel sprouts. Of course, then NOBODY would order them... :eek:

You mentioned your DN prefers "bland" food. That's often the best way to serve food to kids under 10 -- plain, so they can add sauce if they want. It's a lot easier than trying to scrape things off, and convince the kid that it really is edible. And plainer selections, reliable favorites ("standardized" if you will) would also accomplish the goal of making the menu less interesting to adults.

Bear with me guys...the only food service experience I have is from working in commercial bakeries, so my thoughts on this may be a bit rusty. A kid's sloppy joe at Pecos Bill's...if they offered a burger instead, it would be exactly the same bun, and the same packaging. It would be exactly the same amount of meat, just grilled in a little 2-3 oz patty, instead of being broken up and mixed with spices and a sauce, ingredients that aren't free. How is there a difference in cost between those offerings? They could test market it and see how many kids would order a plain burger over a sloppy joe. Ask any kid who orders off a school lunch menu what he prefers ;) And the kicker is, they are already serving kid's burgers at other CS restaurants. Are the restaurants owned/sponsored by different companies? Or is Disney trying to discourage families from eating at certain CS, and encourage them to go to others? One of the most puzzling examples of this is that Pizzafari has no pizza for children, but Tangierine Cafe -- in MOROCCO -- has burgers and pizza! :laughing: But the prices are higher there, too... Epcot eateries seem to offer the best choices for kids that are themed to their area, but some of the prices are higher. Are they managed differently than the CS restaurants in the other parks?

[beth_cam]

I may be wrong but I think you are circling the idea of the difference here. The epcot countries eateries are privately owned and dont have to think about feeding 'the world' economically.

Sloppy joes = 1 big precooked vat kept warmed and use the exact same mixture for an adult(like 2 scoops) or child(1 scoop). Hamburgers = cooked to order have to have 2 different kinds again, requiring different cooking times etc. We all complain about the long waits for counter service yet we want them to make more different things to order. I personally think disney's burgers are gross but i'm not a burger fan anyways so I'm just as happy they arent there and have a hard time seeing the other side.

[TDC Nala]

I see no problem with standardization, but also don't see that it would necessarily always be a benefit. (Many folks don't like the idea of standardization actually, FWIW. I simply think the advantages and disadvantages even each other out.) "More variety" isn't really the entirety of the issue as you've raised it earlier -- rather, you've indicated changes I would consider enhancements to the choices, i.e., making the choices more attractive in general. As Lewis explained, that would make them more attractive to adults, and then Disney's right back where they were a few years ago, with all the trouble they had with adults, interesting in saving money, intimidating cast members into granting them child meals. That's the problem.

.

So when I order the chilled chicken at Backlot Express (I like it better than all that heavy stuff they have on the adult menu and it makes a great snack) I've intimidated the person behind the counter into giving me a child's meal?

What's the logic behind "We don't want adults ordering children's meals, so we have to make the children's meals suck?"

Why don't they just enforce the rule, if it exists, that requires a child's meal to be ordered for a child? If you order one, you must have the child present.

[Ilovemyprincesses]

Other than the bad choices there is nothing stopping any adult from ordering a kids meal now. If an adult has their heart set on getting a cheaper(kids) meal they will find one.

[bicker]

So when I order the chilled chicken at Backlot Express (I like it better than all that heavy stuff they have on the adult menu and it makes a great snack) I've intimidated the person behind the counter into giving me a child's meal? Hmmmm... well the only person I mentioned was my mother.... Mom??? Is that you? Gosh, why didn't you tell me you were participating on the DIS forums?

What's the logic behind "We don't want adults ordering children's meals, so we have to make the children's meals suck?"You just explained the logic: Preventing adults from avoiding that aspect of adult meal prices that represents the cost of customer acquisition.

Why don't they just enforce the rule, if it exists, that requires a child's meal to be ordered for a child?Disney is more concerned about avoiding confrontational situations. Evidently, enforcement is much worse for customer satisfaction than lack of selection.

[Lewisc]

Send your Mom over to Pastamore in City Walk for breakfast. The only difference between the adult egg platter and the kids egg platter is the price. I don't remember if a beverage is included, some people might have an issue asking for coffee with a kids meal.

I don't know the wholesale cost for a small container of milk but Disney's cost for milk might negate whatever savings are obtained from reduced portion size.



Hmmmm... well the only person I mentioned was my mother.... Mom??? Is that you? Gosh, why didn't you tell me you were participating on the DIS forums?

[Katiebell]

OK...my kids are grown (youngest is almost 16), and they all survived to adulthood, none of them starved to death along the way, even with our trips to Disneyland :laughing:

So...from alllll the posts I've read, the research I've done online (over the last few days), and my extensive credentials and years of experience as a mom (*ahem*):

~ If you got the DDP for free, be grateful. It's FREE. Not everyone is so lucky, so be happy :goodvibes If your kid doesn't like the choices on the kids' menus at CS, then plan on buying them adult meals OOP. You can still use the CS credit for the beverage, and whatever sides the kid will eat out of the meal. And don't forget the snack credit.

~ If you paid for the DDP, one TS a day more than breaks even for the $11/day cost. That's not even counting the CS or the Snack credit.

~ If you have toddlers, or kids that hardly eat anything, the CS kids' meals should suit them fine. They can fingerpaint with the applesauce :artist: and fling the carrot sticks at their siblings :duck: -- it will give them something to do while the rest of the family eats lunch.

~ If you have kids that like kids' meals, but are picky about the entree choices, then do your research. After all the planning you must do to get ADR's for your TS meals, I hate to say you need to plan even more -- but you do, if you want your kids to be happy at lunch time. Just browse the CS menus online for each park -- there is a page for them on this site http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/disneydining.cfm#mk
and make a note of any CS restaurants your kids would hate, and any that have choices they would like. You should find at least a couple of reasonable options to choose from in each park -- and you'll know which CS restaurants to avoid like the plague. Epcot has the greatest variety and some of the best sounding meals for kids if they have a little more sophisticated palate (check out the CS kids' menus for Yakitori, Sunshine Seasons, Tangierine, and the Cantina).

~ if your children are sick of grapes, applesauce, and carrot sticks after 3 days, ask if they can sub fries. Some of the restaurants even say on the menu that they will do that, and they will sub a soda for the other beverages. If you don't see it on the menu, never hurts to ask. If you don't let your kids have fries and sodas, even on vacation, then just don't tell them it's an option. :ssst: Oh, and hope they don't look around the restaurant and notice what the other kids are eating.

~ if your kid is a big eater, consider doing a buffet lunch or dinner, most if not all days. The children can choose from all the same selections as adults, and they're sure to find something they like.

~ if Disney would hire me to revamp their kids' meals, the kids and parents would be happier, but according to the feedback I've received from some folks here, Disney would not be happier...so it's probably not gonna happen. Darn. Guess that means I will just have to go into Guest Relations after all :rotfl2:

Actually, I rather be a Disney TA. :teeth:

[bethbuchall]

I am a bit confused...how do Disney stop you ordering all adult meals if they dont seperate the cs credits?

They usually will let you order only a maximum number of adult/kids meals listed on your card at the same time. Even though the credits aren't separated, they can see how may adults you have in your party.

[bicker]

I don't know the wholesale cost for a small container of milk but Disney's cost for milk might negate whatever savings are obtained from reduced portion size.Milk is generally one of the smallest margin items in restaurants. :confused3

[Lewisc]

Milk is generally one of the smallest margin items in restaurants. :confused3

An adult CS meal generally includes a fountain soda, cost to Disney is near zero. A child CS meal generally includes a small container of milk.

We agree Disney saves $.50- .75 on the cost of beef if they had a kids meal with a smaller burger. I wonder how much of that "savings" is reduced in order to pay for the milk.

[bicker]

Probably all of it. In the end, the difference in price between adult CS and child CS is probably mostly a matter of a family-friendly (or perhaps family-biased) courtesy discount.

[NMW]

Okay, so how about this? Let's get rid of the child meals, as they are now. For the Dining Plan, let's charge $22 per day per child 3 - 9 years old. For cash customers, let's charge $5.49 for CS meals for children that currently cost $3.99 ($5.99 for $4.99, etc.) and let's charge $16 for child meals at TS restaurants instead of $7.99. Then, let's make each child meal a choice between a child favorite or a one-third portion of an adult meal.

Would that work out for you?

That would be awesome! :goodvibes

[bicker]

Good for you and me. Too bad we're not typical. :(

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

That would be awesome! :goodvibes

Would work for me also!!!

[gabbysmom04]

I would be happy if they would just bring back a few of the old items to the menu. What I don't understand is if an adult is paying for DDP and wants to get a kids meal why does disney care? Won't disney save money if an adult orders a kids meal for $3.99 rather then a adult meal for $7 for meal $2 for drink and $4 for dessert. I don't like the menus myself, my DD 2 who eats only mac and cheese and two bites at that loves it. But my DS who is a piggy would rather eat more of the adult style meals. I am not going to pay OOP for an adult meal for DS who is one! Just give a few better options. And don't even get me started on sugar free jello! Even my DS (the piggy) won't touch it. That being said I can live with it if we have too. I will find something to feed them. I am just not sure why they can't just add a few items to menus instead of changing the whole thing. I could be wrong but if disney is so broken up about the DDP why are they giving it away for free?

[samiandsky]

If the counter service isn't seperated as stated above, I dont see why you couldn't, lets say, if you have 2 children. Order one adult counter service and split it between the 2 kids.... I mean, your still paying for it... right?
Do you see what I'm saying?
Not to make anyone angry... just thinking in my head, lets say you have 2 adults, 2 children...young children.... one of the adults goes up and orders 3 adult counter service meals for that family of 4 to eat. Couldn't that be done????
Or will the people at the counter stop you from doing that?
Just a thought....not saying DO IT... but was just curious about that option for families.......

[englishrose47]

I don't think it would be a major concern. People purchase something for $10.99, they expect to get $10.99 worth of stuff, not more. You'd be very hard-pressed to find a child CS meal and a child TS meal that together don't add up to at least $10.99.

I don't think Disney really cares about the difference between adult CS meals and child CS meals as much as for TS meals ($3-$4 difference for each CS, versus $20-$30 difference for each TS), so it may take a lot more abuse before they impose significant enforcement of the rule.

Are you saying I can order an adult c.s meal for my 5 year old dgs, He actually loves Mac & cheeseand probably would be okay with that a few times but I can't see him being happy with chilled chichen B4efore I felt it was cheating but now this new kids menu has me thinking SOWHAT!!!

[ShappityTap]

If the counter service isn't seperated as stated above, I dont see why you couldn't, lets say, if you have 2 children. Order one adult counter service and split it between the 2 kids.... I mean, your still paying for it... right?
Do you see what I'm saying?
Not to make anyone angry... just thinking in my head, lets say you have 2 adults, 2 children...young children.... one of the adults goes up and orders 3 adult counter service meals for that family of 4 to eat. Couldn't that be done????
Or will the people at the counter stop you from doing that?
Just a thought....not saying DO IT... but was just curious about that option for families.......
I'm not speaking from experience as I haven't been to WDW yet (going in 6 Days!!).....but I think in your example the system would show you only have 2 adults on the DDP. It would thus only let you order a max of 2 adult CS at one time; someone please correct me if I'm wrong. I don't know what would happen if adult #1 orders 2 adult CS meals, followed closely in line by adult #2 who orders a third individual adult CS meal as part of a separate transaction. That would accomplish your hypothetical objective, but I don't know if that is possible. Perhaps someone else can clarify.

[bicker]

What I don't understand is if an adult is paying for DDP and wants to get a kids meal why does disney care?I think it would only be a matter of having procedures and sticking with them, rather than falling back on the Carousel of Policy.

[bicker]

If the counter service isn't seperated as stated above, I dont see why you couldn't, lets say, if you have 2 children. Order one adult counter service and split it between the 2 kids.... I mean, your still paying for it... right?Solely because it is not permitted:

http://brianandrobbie.com/ChildAndAdultCredits.JPG

[gabbysmom04]

I think it would only be a matter of having procedures and sticking with them, rather than falling back on the Carousel of Policy.

Okay so again why would disney care if an adult pays for a adult DP and wants to order a kids meal for themselves. Disney stand to make more money from that.

It is not something that I would do, the kids meals are gross IMO. Plus I just don't do it.

[bicker]

I'm sorry if my earlier message wasn't clear. What I was saying is that it would only be a matter of sticking to a policy, i.e., "Child meals are for our guests 3 - 9 years old." If they allow adult Dining Plan patrons to order child meals, maybe they're concerned that someone will feel that entitles them to do so when paying cash, and then would insist on paying the menu price instead of a higher (unpublished) adult price. See Lewis' earlier messages...

[Lewisc]

Disney wants policies that are easy and avoid confrontation. They could just have a written notice on the menu. Something like, our kids menus are so good some adults want to try it (not sure how true that is:) ) We'll be happy to preapre an adult version of any child menu item for $ (an extra $10, double the price or list an adult price). We'll adjust the portion size and side dishes to satisfy adults that still have kids tastes.






I'm sorry if my earlier message wasn't clear. What I was saying is that it would only be a matter of sticking to a policy, i.e., "Child meals are for our guests 3 - 9 years old." If they allow adult Dining Plan patrons to order child meals, maybe they're concerned that someone will feel that entitles them to do so when paying cash, and then would insist on paying the menu price instead of a higher (unpublished) adult price. See Lewis' earlier messages...

[gabbysmom04]

Okay that makes total sense. You both have such great information! Bicker I hope you have a great trip.

[jdd]

Solely because it is not permitted:

http://brianandrobbie.com/ChildAndAdultCredits.JPG

Maybe I read samiandsky's message wrong, but I think they were saying have two children split an adult meal, not an adult have a child's meal. I don't think this is a problem if you're paying cash, but I'm not sure how the CS credits on the dining plan work (see ShappityTap's post)

My own question on this is - I have a 9 year old son, can I purchase an adult DDP for him? (don't know that I really want to, just wondering...)

[luvdisney00]

I am going to be visiting in July, and knowing all of this info I have still purchased the dining plan, because I agree with the idea that even if the kids don't like the CS it is plenty of food for $11.00 a day, and the TS and snack are worth it without the CS. However, I think the new kids CS menus are really poor, and very "Un-Disney". Customer satisfaction is supposed to be the #1 objective, and so many people are unhappy, and for good reason. The kids choices are so poor. The fruit and veggie sides are a good idea as CHOICES but the kids should be able to get fries if they want them. We have 3 adults (oldest DD is 12) and 2 kids (DD4 and DD9) and I'm sure we can order 3 adult CS and 2 kids CS and share. I'll probably end up eating the kids meal and letting my daughters eat mine. I could eat chilled chicken and fruit for lunch and save the calories for my daily TS and desserts. The point is that this may not work for every family.

We try very hard with our kids to get them to eat well balanced meals with fresh ingredients and lots of fruits and veggies, but this is vacation. I think they should be able to eat fries and sweets and all the things that we usually restrict because vacation is all about cutting loose and having a good time. DH and I will be eating a lot of things that we usually don't eat at home, like rich desserts, so why shouldn't the kids too? As far as the SF Jello is concerned, red #40 and artificial sweetener are very unhealthy, and my kids won't be eating that.
:)
Has anyone written their complaints to Disney in a letter or email? I think maybe if they get enough complaints, they may do something about it.

[Lewisc]

AFAIK most CS restaurants will let you substitute fries for kids meals.

You did the math. The kids plan costs $11, the snack is worth $3-$4 and a TS character meal is worth $15 (with tax and tip).

Jello is literally free in cost as well as calories. Use a snack credit or pay cash if you want your child get an alternate dessert.

Disney is trying to come up with kids meals that are healthier, inexpensive and are unattractive to older kids and adults.




I am going to be visiting in July, and knowing all of this info I have still purchased the dining plan, because I agree with the idea that even if the kids don't like the CS it is plenty of food for $11.00 a day, and the TS and snack are worth it without the CS. However, I think the new kids CS menus are really poor, and very "Un-Disney". Customer satisfaction is supposed to be the #1 objective, and so many people are unhappy, and for good reason. The kids choices are so poor. The fruit and veggie sides are a good idea as CHOICES but the kids should be able to get fries if they want them. We have 3 adults (oldest DD is 12) and 2 kids (DD4 and DD9) and I'm sure we can order 3 adult CS and 2 kids CS and share. I'll probably end up eating the kids meal and letting my daughters eat mine. I could eat chilled chicken and fruit for lunch and save the calories for my daily TS and desserts. The point is that this may not work for every family.

We try very hard with our kids to get them to eat well balanced meals with fresh ingredients and lots of fruits and veggies, but this is vacation. I think they should be able to eat fries and sweets and all the things that we usually restrict because vacation is all about cutting loose and having a good time. DH and I will be eating a lot of things that we usually don't eat at home, like rich desserts, so why shouldn't the kids too? As far as the SF Jello is concerned, red #40 and artificial sweetener are very unhealthy, and my kids won't be eating that.
:)
Has anyone written their complaints to Disney in a letter or email? I think maybe if they get enough complaints, they may do something about it.

[TDC Nala]

Disney wants policies that are easy and avoid confrontation. They could just have a written notice on the menu. Something like, our kids menus are so good some adults want to try it (not sure how true that is:) ) We'll be happy to preapre an adult version of any child menu item for $ (an extra $10, double the price or list an adult price). We'll adjust the portion size and side dishes to satisfy adults that still have kids tastes.

How would adjusting the portion size help if the adult is looking for a smaller portion? If I go to Backlot Express and order a chilled chicken strips meal which I often do for a snack, it's because I want some food but I don't want a full adult meal. CS portion sizes are sometimes way too big. I guess I am supposed to throw half of it away. I don't like that idea but maybe WDW would appreciate that better since they got the cash anyway. I've only ordered myself kids meals at CS because I can order smaller portions (appetizers) at TS places.

Disney put out some press thing awhile back that said when they were testing the new menus, parents would order fruit or other healthier side choices a vast majority of the time for kids IF those choices were made the primary component of the menu. They say that's why you see carrots or fruit on the menus now, and you have to ask if you want fries.

[mt mommy]

We just got back from WDW a week ago and were on the DDP with DD age 5 and DS age 3. The new sides of grapes and carrotts they loved. I loved them too of course, for nutritional value. But the main course choices are TERRIBLE!

My DS had one bite of the Stouffer mac-n-cheese at Columbia Harbor House and spit it out! I don't know about anyone else, but if it's not Kraft Mac n Cheese my kids won't eat it! The only other choice was cold chicken. I really wish they had chicken strips as a choice in more places! As for the PBJ; if you like the uncrustables well, you'll be happy. But, I took one bite and I couldn't stomach it! Too much Peanut Butter and Jelly.

We were happy at Liberty Tree Tavern when I nicely asked our CM if our kids could possibly have a grilled cheese and he let us!!! Both of my kids gobbled them up! My son was terribly upset that they didn't have mini corn dogs anymore!

So, be prepared if you have a more picky Pre-schooler! :)

[otoole]

Ofrget about whether we are saving money by going on the dining plan or not - forget about the fact that disney is trying to cut costs because quite frankly I think that is a pretty weak argument when the savings on the dining plan for adults can be huge!! So I have trouble believing that Disney is concerned with the price difference between a burger and a sloppy joe when I can have steak and seafood for dinner and my meal exceed the price i am paying on the dining plan for the day! Carrots, grapes - great - healthy and certainly nutritious...but as a parent of two children (7&5) that eat just about anything don't try to sell me that the nutritious offerings to help combat childhood obesity are mac and cheese (stouffers?), pb&j (one thing my children have never eaten and will not eat), and sugar free jello. Am I really to believe that this is better than a veggie pizza, some ribs and corn, fish, salad or any of the other countless things my children actually will eat! Some are saying that these meals are made to deter adults ...well let's be sure about one thing if they deter adults, they most definitely will deter children! I don't have the option of not doing DDP for my kids so buffets and certain TS restaurants are required (even many of those have bad food choices?!) and paying OOP for CS for my kids while I of course eat like a queen...not rational

[Mad4Dizne]

There are plenty of kid meal options at most fast food places today. [Wendy's has these great turkey sandwiches!!] Many adults order kids meals, lets face it the portion sizes are really what meals should look like for most grown people. It doesn't cause a major upset to those companies. I just don't see why they had to make the Kids Meals so gross. I am still not happy over the fact that kids do not have adequate meal choices for a vacation, "fun" venue. Heck, they could just do exactly what the major Fast Food companies do!!???!!! ( we do plan on ordering OOP, if we need to) And I'm sure I'll end up eating some of that junk..(except the Jello--yuk!!!!.how nice for me :scared1: )

PS-one of my little darlings is allergic to red food dye, that ought to be a hoot when it comes to trying to get a CS meal dessert!!!!

luv-I emailed Disney 3 times, I spoke to a rep once and I did let them know our displeasure of not being able to get a typical "kids meal" offering at every venue. I really hate the idea of having to walk across the park to get a kids meal.

[hollyb]

There are plenty of kid meal options at most fast food places today. [Wendy's has these great turkey sandwiches!!] Many adults order kids meals, lets face it the portion sizes are really what meals should look like for most grown people. It doesn't cause a major upset to those companies. I just don't see why they had to make the Kids Meals so gross. I am still not happy over the fact that kids do not have adequate meal choices for a vacation, "fun" venue. Heck, they could just do exactly what the major Fast Food companies do!!???!!! ( we do plan on ordering OOP, if we need to) And I'm sure I'll end up eating some of that junk..(except the Jello--yuk!!!!.how nice for me :scared1: )

PS-one of my little darlings is allergic to red food dye, that ought to be a hoot when it comes to trying to get a CS meal dessert!!!!

luv-I emailed Disney 3 times, I spoke to a rep once and I did let them know our displeasure of not being able to get a typical "kids meal" offering at every venue. I really hate the idea of having to walk across the park to get a kids meal.

I agree about fast food places having better choices. My kids love the apple slices at Mc D's and they also get milk. Sure they love the fries too, but we split an order 3 ways. I would rather spend the money and buy them something good and healthy instead of cold chicken strips and mac and cheese that has been describe by many as GROSS:rotfl

[beth_cam]

PS-one of my little darlings is allergic to red food dye, that ought to be a hoot when it comes to trying to get a CS meal dessert!!!!


Disney is very very accommidating for guests with dietary issues and/or food allergies. Let the CS know that your child is allergic to the jello (food dye) and you will probably be given an alternative.

[Lewisc]

Most of the fast food restaurants offer a "dollar menu". Adults don't have to order a kids meal to save money. Fast food restaurants compete with other restaurants and compete on the basis of price.

Disney is a theme park. Meals are a profit center. Customers don't have the option of going to a competing restaurant across the street. Disney isn't willing to sell a burger to an adult for a dollar. You really have to compare meals at Disney with meals in other "captive" locations. Don't compare the CS meals at WDW with your local Wendy's. Compare it with meals in a ball park, the circus or even the airport.




There are plenty of kid meal options at most fast food places today. [Wendy's has these great turkey sandwiches!!] Many adults order kids meals, lets face it the portion sizes are really what meals should look like for most grown people. It doesn't cause a major upset to those companies. I just don't see why they had to make the Kids Meals so gross. I am still not happy over the fact that kids do not have adequate meal choices for a vacation, "fun" venue. Heck, they could just do exactly what the major Fast Food companies do!!???!!! ( we do plan on ordering OOP, if we need to) And I'm sure I'll end up eating some of that junk..(except the Jello--yuk!!!!.how nice for me :scared1: )

PS-one of my little darlings is allergic to red food dye, that ought to be a hoot when it comes to trying to get a CS meal dessert!!!!

luv-I emailed Disney 3 times, I spoke to a rep once and I did let them know our displeasure of not being able to get a typical "kids meal" offering at every venue. I really hate the idea of having to walk across the park to get a kids meal.

[NMW]

AFAIK most CS restaurants will let you substitute fries for kids meals.

You did the math. The kids plan costs $11, the snack is worth $3-$4 and a TS character meal is worth $15 (with tax and tip).

Jello is literally free in cost as well as calories. Use a snack credit or pay cash if you want your child get an alternate dessert.

Disney is trying to come up with kids meals that are healthier, inexpensive and are unattractive to older kids and adults.


I just wanted to let you know that getting fries was not a option for us in Oct at ANY of the CS places we ate at. ALL of them said no, some told us we could use a snack credit. For our family the kids sides at CS were okay-grapes and jello. It was the main entree that was bad (really bad). Next trip in Dec I have aged our will be 9 year old, to age 10. My other son will be 11, so I'll only have 1 "child" on the plan. She actually likes WDW mac and cheese and if she wants a burger and fries or pizza, I'll just buy it for her.

My main reason for buying the adult plan for our middle child was mostly for TS meals. He likes adult entrees and had to watch his brother eat steak, ribs, etc., while he had pita pizza. He was not all that happy. The kids TS meals for our DD 4 were fine though. Honestly, CS places just gave us adult meals for the kids if we asked. I was prepared to pay-even had cash in my hand twice. The CM's said we could use the plan, so we did. I wasn't trying to rip off Dinsey, but I wasn't going to stand there and demand to pay either. :) I'm guessing that will change, and fortunately for our family it really doesn't matter anymore.


I really like bicker's idea of paying more and getting more for kids. I'd much rather pay more and get more, than have an unhappy child or have to search the whole park for kids CS that kids will like.

[Tam1067]

I haven't been there since the new kids meals were created (we'll see in July!), but yesterday in the mail, I got my "Disney Rewards" newsletter thing from my Disney Visa.

It specifically mentions the new healthy sides for kids meals (like fruit) but then also states clearly that fries and soda are available as an option. Did some CMs not get the message?

[beth_cam]

I haven't been there since the new kids meals were created (we'll see in July!), but yesterday in the mail, I got my "Disney Rewards" newsletter thing from my Disney Visa.

It specifically mentions the new healthy sides for kids meals (like fruit) but then also states clearly that fries and soda are available as an option. Did some CMs not get the message?


I was looking at that on my newsletter and figured i'd pack it and take it with me to the parks...but I'm sure they will come up with some reason it doesnt apply if they are set on not letting you have the fries or soda. This is a just in case though since my kids actually like the sides and drinks and that's what I'd rather them have. But once or twice to get fries ....

[jodifla]

I just wanted to let you know that getting fries was not a option for us in Oct at ANY of the CS places we ate at. ALL of them said no, some told us we could use a snack credit. For our family the kids sides at CS were okay-grapes and jello. It was the main entree that was bad (really bad). Next trip in Dec I have aged our will be 9 year old, to age 10. My other son will be 11, so I'll only have 1 "child" on the plan. She actually likes WDW mac and cheese and if she wants a burger and fries or pizza, I'll just buy it for her.





I think things have changed since October, when they were being so rigid about everything. The response they got during that time was pretty blistering.

In January, fries were everywhere. Had no trouble getting them.

As I have said many, many times: It's just bizarre to me that Disney cannot put together a decent kids meal package across the board. Every family and fast food restaurant in the U.S. does it, and yet WDW looks like a buffoon since it's unable to please its core market, families.

Because we weren't limited by the DDP, we just bought our 5 year old the food he wanted to eat, instead of the crappy kids choices at CS menus. Those who have the DDP are getting the short end of the stick.

[gabbysmom04]

I think things have changed since October, when they were being so rigid about everything. The response they got during that time was pretty blistering.

In January, fries were everywhere. Had no trouble getting them.

As I have said many, many times: It's just bizarre to me that Disney cannot put together a decent kids meal package across the board. Every family and fast food restaurant in the U.S. does it, and yet WDW looks like a buffoon since it's unable to please its core market, families.

Because we weren't limited by the DDP, we just bought our 5 year old the food he wanted to eat, instead of the crappy kids choices at CS menus. Those who have the DDP are getting the short end of the stick.


I agree with you! Why is this so hard for them to figure out? I will say that I think everyone is getting the short end of the stick with the choices. At TS meals it is now $7.99 for the meal with only a few choices for kids. On top of that in some places mac and cheese or a hamburger is what they are trying to pass off as healthy. And these do not come with any type of veg as a side.the other thing that bothers me is that is you ask for veggies or fries as a side you have to give up their app or dessert. It makes not sense to me!

[luvdisney00]

It does not make any sense to me either that Disney cannot have a kids menu like every other "family friendly" restaurant in the country. I also don't believe that Disney was losing $$ from selling kids meals to the small minority of adults who wanted to buy one. I can go to Sam's Club and buy a giant bag of chicken nuggets for $7.99 (food industries get them cheaper I'm sure) so if they sell 3 chicken nuggets, a small bag of fries and a fountain drink in a tiny cup to anyone for $4.00, how are they losing $$?
:confused3

[englishrose47]

DGS 5 will not be happywith some of those choices , but it's mainlt cs meals, most of our choice of TS have good choices or are family style or buffets!

[DISNEYFAMILYOFFOUR]

I'll probably end up eating the kids meal and letting my daughters eat mine. I could eat chilled chicken and fruit for lunch and save the calories for my daily TS and desserts. The point is that this may not work for every family.

Have you tried the chilled chicken? Last trip, my DD ordered it while I ordered a hamburger. She could not eat it so I switched with her. I could not eat it either. For the rest of the trip I got her an adult CS meal.

I am also going to be calling them again to speak to them about this issue. I really hope things change soon.

[luvdisney00]

Gloria,
No I haven't been to WDW since 2000 when a kid's meal was a burger or nuggets and fries. Vacation food!!! I guess I was hoping we could make it work, but you're no the 1st to post that this "entree" is horrible. I am going to send an email to complain, but I think all of the posters who have gone recently and were unhappy with the kids CS would have more pull. Disney doesn't like complaints..they are all about making the guests happy.

I just got my Disney Visa newsletter today and there were quotes from the CEO about how proud Disney is about their new "healthy" choices for kids. It sounds so nice on paper, but they need to know that people (ie paying customers) are not happy about the changes. I don't think a child's magical vacation is the proper time to reform their eating habits. My kids 11, 9 &4 eat very well at home but on vacation I want them to enjoy and indulge just as my DH & I plan on doing.

Dis 'ers, let's all stick together and e mail Disney and politely tell them what we think of the menu changes!:yay:

[englishrose47]

I agree most kids donot like cold chickensalad on vacation or not. I have no problem offering healthy choices but they should be in addition to unhealthy choices. Let's be fair adults get double chocolate cake and a kid gets sugar free jello. I'd rather have paid extra for the kids meals than have to deal with the healthy choices. It seems to be the cs that are the main problem as the T.S can be buffet or family style. I have visions of me eating a lot of Healthy kids meals so he can have a hamburger. Way to go Disney!!

[Katiebell]

Well, if Disney would just reconsider and hire me as kids' food consultant... ;)

When I started really looking into this, and compared menus, the best sounding CS kids' meals seem to be at Epcot (can't say what they taste like, but sure sounds better than chilled chicken, sloppy joes, and sugar free jello):

Sunshine Seasons: sweet and sour chicken, mac and cheese, mini subs, chicken leg w/mashed potatoes
Cantina: child size beef burrito
Lotus Blossom: egg roll and beef fried rice
Tangierine: hamburger, pizza, or chicken tenders
Yakitori: teriyaki chicken w/veggies and rice

So if I had kids that were fed up (no pun intended) with carrot sticks and applesauce, I'd probably try some CS meals in Epcot. Here's the thing, though...Disney obviously has figured out how to make decent kids' menu items and serve them at those restaurants. I also don't understand why they can't offer some of those items (at least like mini subs, pizza, burgers, and chicken tenders or chicken legs, if not the more ethnic items) at other CS in the parks. They aren't going broke, even if some adults insist on ordering kids' meals. And if that's truly a concern, the more appealing they make the adult menus -- value, quality, and offering portions for adults with large and small appetites -- the fewer adults they would probably see ordering children's meals.

And I haven't seen anyone else mention this, so I will: grapes and carrot sticks are not ideal foods for toddlers. Carrots tend to break up into chunks, especially if the youngster doesn't have strong molars to grind them up, and can cause choking. Grapes are a serious choking hazard because they compress and they are the exact same size as toddler's windpipe. The American Academy of Pediatrics lists both grapes and raw vegetables as two of the greatest choking hazards for children under the age of 4. http://healthresources.caremark.com/topic/chokingreport

Grapes and carrots are healthy foods, and appropriate for a lot of kids, BUT...Disney should offer some other kid-appropriate side items like fruit yogurt, cups of diced canned peaches, raisins, teddy grahams, etc. that would be better choices for the four-and-under crowd.

[NMW]

Really good point about the grapes and carrots. I didn't even think about it since my kids are older. When they were toddlers, I never would have given them either of those sides.

I'm really happy to hear that kids can sub fries at CS places easily now. In Oct they wouldn't even let my DD get fries with her kids burger at SCI-FI! Apples were her only choice. Of course we happened to vacation at the official launch of the new kids TS meals, which have since been changed for the better.

[PeachesDoesHair]

I like the idea of healthier choices for the kid's menu. However, I find my children still expect it to taste good (duh!). I think they failed when it comes to what kinds of healthy things to offer. My kids have never eaten "chilled chicken" and my three year old is never going to eat chicken salad. There are many healthier items that she does love. My kids would love having a choice of grilled cheese (on whole grain bread) with maybe a Gogurt stick. She would love apple slices if there was some caramel sauce. She loves manderine oranges. I don't think I would mind so much the healthier choices if they were choices we would feed our kids. My little girl will never eat apple slices with cinnamon...she will say it looks dirty. LOL.

[mt mommy]

I like the idea of healthier choices for the kid's menu. However, I find my children still expect it to taste good (duh!). I think they failed when it comes to what kinds of healthy things to offer. My kids have never eaten "chilled chicken" and my three year old is never going to eat chicken salad. There are many healthier items that she does love. My kids would love having a choice of grilled cheese (on whole grain bread) with maybe a Gogurt stick. She would love apple slices if there was some caramel sauce. She loves manderine oranges. I don't think I would mind so much the healthier choices if they were choices we would feed our kids. My little girl will never eat apple slices with cinnamon...she will say it looks dirty. LOL.

I totally agree. It's funny how Wendy's and McDonald's knew how to change some of their menu choices and kids LOVE it.....but when Disney of all places tried to do it, it seems to have failed! :confused:

[PeachesDoesHair]

I was actually thinking of McDonalds and Wendys.

[amarberry]

Katiebell- I totally agree with you about the carrot stick and grape issue. I still cut grapes in half for my 2.5 yo and she has just started eating raw baby carrots (only with supervision). Don't even get me started on the sugar free, scary red Jello. I would NEVER let my DD eat something like that. Your suggestions make a lot more sense to me. Panera kids meals come with a Horizon organic yogurt stick that she loves. That would be a great side or dessert option for kids, and refreshing too!

I was very disappointed when we were at Pop in December and they only had light yogurt made with aspartame available. For a family destination, I can believe how out of touch food management is with a widespread food concern such as aspartame and children.

[bicker]

How would adjusting the portion size help if the adult is looking for a smaller portion? If I go to Backlot Express and order a chilled chicken strips meal which I often do for a snack, it's because I want some food but I don't want a full adult meal. CS portion sizes are sometimes way too big. I guess I am supposed to throw half of it away. I don't like that idea but maybe WDW would appreciate that better since they got the cash anyway. I've only ordered myself kids meals at CS because I can order smaller portions (appetizers) at TS places.Indeed. The point is to charge adults for adult meals. Disney really doesn't care much with regard to how much food the adult gets -- they just want the adult to pay the adult price. I think they end up addressing portion sizes, because many guests would feel upset if they pay "so much" but only get a little food, regardless of how much they actually want to eat.

[bicker]

Healthy shouldn't mean gross!I think folks should be careful about making generalization like this. The child meals aren't "gross". You and/or your child may not like them, but from what I saw, someone likes each one of them. As a matter of fact, the only concerns I saw expressed were regarding the child-meal desserts -- not one parent I spoke to had anything bad to say about the child-meal entrees their children were eating.Some are saying that these meals are made to deter adults ...well let's be sure about one thing if they deter adults, they most definitely will deter children!Sorry, but that doesn't make sense. Many children will eat food that adults would find too dull and boring, and indeed many child won't eat food that adults enjoy specifically because the food isn't dull and boring.

I don't have the option of not doing DDP for my kids Keep in mind that every family has the option of not doing the Dining Plan. If it isn't right for your family, don't purchase it.

[bicker]

There are plenty of kid meal options at most fast food places today. There is also a lot of competition: The fast-food joints don't have a choice. So the fast-food joints' situation is exactly opposite: They have to offer what they offer in order to achieve their optimal result, while Disney's optimal offering is affected by different forces and different mechanics.

[Disneyolic]

I think this is kind of strange. I don't think that most of the kids meals choices, be it TS or CS, are really that bad. Some places are better than others, of course, and that is totally an opinion.

The only change I would like to see is another option for dessert at the CS. I know almost everyone agrees with that. Even if it is a cookie, it would be nice to have a choice.

Otherwise, after viewing many, many menus, I'm pretty positive my kids won't starve and will be satisfied most of the time. And, I believe that the cost you pay per day for each child is really pretty good considering what you get for the entire day!

[bicker]

I also don't believe that Disney was losing $$ from selling kids meals to the small minority of adults who wanted to buy one. ... how are they losing $$? :confused3Hopefully I can help you understand it: The way things are now they get 75% of a certain set of people to pay $15. The way you would have them operate, they get 95% of that certain set of people to pay $8.

0.75 * 15 = $11.25
0.95 * 8 = $7.60

Which would you prefer? Using the alternative approach, Disney would lose lots of revenue.

[englishrose47]

I don't have the most healthy eaters for grandkids but they all love salad, the plain regular type,they like apples and bananas, they like peas,yoghurt, plain pizza, baked chicken, mac & cheese, they don't like chilled chicken or chicken on pizza they would like a sugar free pudding but not jello. There are so many differnt healthy options that Disney could have picked that would heve been Kid friendly. Finally it should be the parents deciding what is healthy not Disney. Fries and better desserts should be an option!!

[otoole]

Quote from bickier:
I think folks should be careful about making generalization like this. The child meals aren't "gross". You and/or your child may not like them, but from what I saw, someone likes each one of them. As a matter of fact, the only concerns I saw expressed were regarding the child-meal desserts -- not one parent I spoke to had anything bad to say about the child-meal entrees their children were eating.

I disagree, it seems that plenty of parents on the DIS have complained that the stouffer's mac and cheese, PB&J (which is one of the few things my kids won't eat) and the chilled chicken are in fact GROSS albeit not to everyone but certainly to many! I have been scanning all of the menus trying to find alternatives for CS and there are few. Not all kids are picky eaters and certainly if Disney wanted to offer healthy meals where are the choices of fish or chicken with vegetables? How is PB&J or mac and cheese healthier than a pizza? Why couldn't they offer a healthy adult meal in a child-sized portion?



Quote:
Originally Posted by otoole
Some are saying that these meals are made to deter adults ...well let's be sure about one thing if they deter adults, they most definitely will deter children!
Quote from bicker:
Sorry, but that doesn't make sense. Many children will eat food that adults would find too dull and boring, and indeed many child won't eat food that adults enjoy specifically because the food isn't dull and boring.

Read all of the posts from parents that switched with their kids to allow them to enjoy a meal only to find that they too couldn't stomach the meal.


Quote:
Originally Posted by otoole
I don't have the option of not doing DDP for my kids
Quote from bicker:
Keep in mind that every family has the option of not doing the Dining Plan. If it isn't right for your family, don't purchase it.

True, but we all know that adults save a lot of money on the dining plan and with my mother coming as well (3 adults) it doesn't ake sense not to get the dining plan. My concern is that there is a huge gap between what is being offered to adults and that which is offered to children. Like I have posted earlier, I can have steak, seafood... and no one questions how much money it is costing Disney, while my child has a choice between mac and cheese and chilled chicken (for many meals with little variance) and now it becomes an issue?!

[bicker]

I disagree, it seems that plenty of parents on the DIS have complained That's often what happens on online discussions forums. What matters, however, is what the entire set of guests actually do -- their actual purchasing behaviors. From those I spoke with and observed there last week, I don't believe the problem is as bad as you're making it out to be. We can agree to disagree about that, if you'd like. I'm sure we each had our own experiences.

Why couldn't they offer a healthy adult meal in a child-sized portion? This question has been answered perhaps a half-dozen times in this thread already.

True, but we all know that adults save a lot of money on the dining planAs they do if they have children who enjoy the child meals. By the same token, folks who enjoy haute cuisine don't save much money, because they use their Dining Plan credits for all signature meals, and therefore doing get a good value. Other guests don't enjoy taking up so much time at sit down meals, so don't get a good value because they have TS credits left-over at the end. For still others, even with the child credits being left unused, they still save money. Each family will have their own situation. The Dining Plan is only good for SOME families. Other families should simply not purchase it. That's all I was saying.

[englishrose47]

Hey I hopr Disney is not using PeterPan Peanut butter!!! My DGS wouldn't order that anyway!!I'm really glad Disney still thinksMac & Cheese is healthyshush don't tell 'em about Trans fats etc..!!

[Katiebell]

Even if your child hates the counter service meal selections :crazy2:, if you do one TS meal a day, the DDP is an excellent value.

Per child, the cost of the DDP is $10.99/day. Here are the prices of some of popular character meals or buffets:

Donald's Breakfastosaurus: $10.99
Akershus Princess Story Book: $12.99 breakfast, $13.99 lunch or dinner
Biergarten: $10.99 lunch, $11.99 dinner
Crystal Palace: $10.99 breakfast, $11.99 lunch, $12.99 dinner
Chef Mickey's: $10.99 breakfast, $12.99 dinner
Boma: $9.99 breakfast, $11.99 dinner
Hollywood & Vine: $12.99 breakfast, $13.99 lunch, $11.99 dinner (no characters)

TS entrees for kids at other restaurants aren't as expensive as the buffets and character meals -- but they can be even more expensive once you add in the appetizer, entree, dessert, and beverage that are included in the DDP. Some of the TS choices look really good. Check out the kids' menus for the Epcot TS meals, Sci Fi, 50's Prime Time, Liberty Tree, Tony's Town Square...

Add to that the snack valued at up to $4, and you are way ahead, not counting a CS meal at all.

As for CS meals...some look awful, others look much better. If your kids aren't picky and will eat anything, or if they won't eat anything anyway, then it doesn't matter. If your kids only like certain entrees, then research the menus and figure out what CS restaurants are the best in each park. Use the CS meal credits for whatever your kid will eat from them, even if it's more of a snack than a meal. Throw away the jello if you don't want it and buy your kid a Dole Whip instead! :teeth: Make good use of the snack credits. Share some of your adult meal. If you order a double cheeseburger, I have read from several sources that you can order a second bun for less than a dollar, and split the burger that way. There are a lot of options, you've just gotta be creative :thumbsup2

[Disneynut4ever]

ITA!!! I wasn't trying to take advantage of the DDP, but we noticed that CS wasn't split between adult and child so their were a few times that I ordered pizza or a hamburger off the adult menu for my girls to split. Shame on me, I know.

What do you mean, exactly? Did you use an adult meal ticket for your child?

[beth_cam]

What do you mean, exactly? Did you use an adult meal ticket for your child?

there are no meal tickets adult child or otherwise. symantics here sorry. Hope this helps with understanding. I'm in a bit of a hurry and may not make sense.

What there is is your keycard to your room, on which is stored not only your room 'key' but also your park tickets and your dining plan information. When you get the dining plan at this point it will show by using that card that when you check in you have 1 table service, 1 counter service, 1 snack for each member of your party for each night of your stay..'loading' the card with a total of those credits. The card will also state how many adults/children are in your party. Further it will break that down some of the child verses adult credits showing if say you are staying 3 nights and you are a party of 1 adult and 1 child - it will say 3 adult table service, 3 child table service, 6 counter service, 6 snacks. There has been much discussion/debate on using adult for children or children for adults. You pay 10.99 for a kids day on the plan but you are purchasing adult food with it etc. Disney has decided that they do not want to allow this accross the board and that is why the table services are specific as to how many adult/child there are. They have yet to do this with the counter service meals. To pay for meals you give them the card and they take off the appropriate credits. Well when the credits arent separated for child/adult a lot of times people will order all adult meals especially in the counter service (or sharing the adult meal with the child, then using the 'child' credit to gain extra for themself people did this alot before table services were separated were even encouraged to do wo by cm's during the first year of the plan)...for in the above example where you have paid for 3 days adult and 3 days child you are acheiving 6 adult meals.

So the other poster was saying that instead of ordering an unwanted kids meal for each of her 2 children she ordered an adult meal and let them split it. There is no way for the casheir to really prevent this. There is nothing to tell the cashier that you have so many adult counter services and child counter services only the total number of services left available.

[frannn]

What do you mean, exactly? Did you use an adult meal ticket for your child?

On the DP, children's credits are meant only for children's meals. From what I understand, though, adult's and kid's credits are still pooled for CS. As long as you don't order more adult meals at one time then you have on your room reservation, you may still be able to (working outside the guidelines of the plan) get an adult CS meal for a child's credit. For example, if there 2A, 1C in your party, you would not be able to order 3A meals at one time. No one knows if/when Disney will close this loophole. I am not chastising, flaming or condoning, just stating the facts. Can't believe I got here before Bicker though...as he is the DP guru.

[Disneyolic]

As long as you don't order more adult meals at one time then you have on your room reservation, you may still be able to (working outside the guidelines of the plan) get an adult CS meal for a child's credit. For example, if there 2A, 1C in your party, you would not be able to order 3A meals at one time. No one knows if/when Disney will close this loophole. I am not chastising, flaming or condoning, just stating the facts. Can't believe I got here before Bicker though...as he is the DP guru.One problem with this is that there a FEW counter service places that do not have child specific foods. In that case, you can order all adult meals. One place in particular I know is Pizza Planet.

[englishrose47]

So let me see if I understand this. We will have 4 adult ddp and i child .So I could order 4 adult meals at C.S. and share with childand I will just have 4 cs credits deducted and they wont know if the 1 remaining for that day is Adult or child. So on last day I would have all these c.s. credits left to order c.s. meals adult or child. I realize it is a loophole and I'm not saying I will do that ,but I could???

[srdipert]

So let me see if I understand this. We will have 4 adult ddp and i child .So I could order 4 adult meals at C.S. and share with childand I will just have 4 cs credits deducted and they wont know if the 1 remaining for that day is Adult or child. So on last day I would have all these c.s. credits left to order c.s. meals adult or child. I realize it is a loophole and I'm not saying I will do that ,but I could???

Yes the way it is right now you could.

I also second the yogurt sticks...my kids would choose those for dessert everytime and would even OOP for extras throughout the day!

[belle2594]

I agree the children's menus are not very good. I did a lot of research before we left last August to make sure my 7 year old could get a comparable meal to my 12 year old. It ended up being in vain though, because we stayed at Coronado and the first day we went to lunch at Pepper Market they said she could have any entree. We all even had ice cream for dessert. Everyday after that we just ate there. My husband even found out he could get a cappicinno ( I don't think that's spelled right) for dessert. Maybe it is because they get a tip, but I did not complain. I do not think it is to much to ask for Disney to offer the main item at each restaurant in a kids portion, and shame on them for expecting a parent to eat a brownie or cookie while they are stuck with sugar free jello. :sad2:

[bicker]

I do not think it is to much to ask for Disney to offer the main item at each restaurant in a kids portionRead back a bit in the thread for an explanation of why they don't do that. Also, keep in mind that they're aiming to keep the price of a child meals low, since young families often are strapped for money. A quarter-portion of an $25 adult meal could reasonably be priced at $18, rather than less than $8 the child meals.

[Katiebell]

If you are on the DDP, you will only be charged 10.99/day for your children 9 and under, vs. 38.99/day for any "adults" 10 and over. Some people are unhappy with the quantity, quality, and limited selection of children's meals, and that their kids have to order from the kids' menu.

Maybe look at it this way -- you are paying $11 a day instead of $39, which you MUST pay once your child turns 10 if your family wants the DDP. That's $28 less every single day of your trip. So if you go ahead and use the child's TS and CS credits, you can pay OOP for a few extra things to make sure your child is full and gets things they like to eat, and it will cost a lot less than $28 a day. Or you can share part of your meals with them -- everyone keeps saying there is just too much food, much more food than the adults can eat with all those appetizers AND desserts at TS AND some of those huge CS meals you can get (like the chicken and ribs combo at Cosmic Ray's). Or, lots of people say they have leftover snack credits they have to rush to use at the end of their trips -- use those for your kids before the last day. Or eat several of your TS meals at buffets where your children can eat as much as they want of anything they like -- they will get an "adult" meal for less than half the adult price.

It's true, several of the restaurants (especially CS) have very limited, or even unappealing choices (I'm sorry, "chilled chicken and cheese" does sound horrid -- I certainly wouldn't order it!) But a lot of them aren't so bad. Look at some of the kids' choices in Epcot: sweet and sour chicken, turkey subs, burritos, burgers, pizza, kabobs, shepherd's pie, teriyaki chicken, tempura...

If your kid doesn't like/is tired of/is allergic to/isn't allowed to eat sugar-free Jello, then throw it away; buy the kid a cookie or some ice cream :mickeybar and go have fun. Maybe if the Disney quality control people see enough unopened cups of sugar-free Jello in the garbage, they'll get the hint and start offering something else :laughing: I'm more concerned about the grapes and carrot sticks that are a choking hazard for toddlers. If it was my child, I'd eat the carrots and grapes myself and give him some of my french fries, maybe buy him a banana or some pineapple chunks. And then take him to Chef Mickey's for dinner so he can eat whatever he likes. ::MickeyMo :thumbsup2

[NMW]

We had lots of dissapointing meals for our 8 year old this past Oct. He watched his older brother eat steak, chicken and many other adult appetizers and entrees. To make matters worse, Disney had just launched its new "healthy" table service meals with no subs. Weeks later they did change the meals again and made them better, but it didn't help us. My DD was 4 and could live on mac and cheese, so she was happy! I think the TS meals are fine for younger kids but not that great for older kids.

Our solution for our next trip in Dec 07 is to buy him the adult plan. For a DVC stay, it's not tied to tickets, so it's not a big deal. We have recently decided to go to Disney again in May 08. We plan to stay at the POLY and do the meal plan package. We have decided to "age" our middle child (he'll be 9) one year, so he's 10 and an "adult" in Disney's eyes. We have to buy him an adult park ticket too. The CM I spoke to said that people do this often with older kids. It's $300+ more but as my husband pointed out, totally worth it. Especially if they start seperating adult/child Cs credits. Our 9 year old would be miserable watching his brother eating bacon double cheeseburgers at CS places while he had a choice of PB&J or chilled chicken. TS dinners would be a similar issue. He likes adult food. So, if I was to pay OOP for adult CS lunches and even some dinners, I'd be getting close that $300 anyway. ;)

I know this won't work for every family, but it's our solution. :goodvibes

[always on vacation]

I really don't understand why they don't have food specific to the restaurant type on the kids menus. What's the point of taking your child to a special restaurant if they only have a choice of the same items at every restaurant. We were looking forward to Kona Cafe & Spoodles with our 8 yr old but now I'm considering changing our reservations to the Buffets at Boma & Beach Club so there will be more for him to eat. Of course we were looking forward to the sit down dinner & food at Kona & Spoodles but not if he'll only have pizza & mac & beef to choose from....I'm really disappointed! I hope there's still good kid's choices at Le Cellier & Wolfgang Puck's Cafe.

[TDC Nala]

I really don't understand why they don't have food specific to the restaurant type on the kids menus. What's the point of taking your child to a special restaurant if they only have a choice of the same items at every restaurant. We were looking forward to Kona Cafe & Spoodles with our 8 yr old but now I'm considering changing our reservations to the Buffets at Boma & Beach Club so there will be more for him to eat. Of course we were looking forward to the sit down dinner & food at Kona & Spoodles but not if he'll only have pizza & mac & beef to choose from....I'm really disappointed! I hope there's still good kid's choices at Le Cellier & Wolfgang Puck's Cafe.

Some say it's to prevent adults from ordering children's meals. There's also some indications by Disney that it's trying to come up with healthier offerings for children. They've already had to change from their original revamped kids' menus, so the first attempt didn't go over too well.

[always on vacation]

I don't see how mac & cheese is any healthier than pizza. And it's the same menu everywhere. The reason we go to different restaurants is to try different foods. Disney has brought the same food to different restaruants. Some sort of Dyslexia I just dont get. Why bother reading the menu at all. Just eat based on convenience & atmosphere.

[bicker]

No one at Disney is saying that macaroni and cheese is healthier than pizza. That's an inference unsupported by the statements they've made. It's surely an assertion that is easy to argue against, but since they haven't made that assertion, the argument against it is pretty pointless, so I won't go into the details of what's "wrong" with macaroni and cheese and pizza from a health standpoint. It's just not relevant.

The word "choices" refers to more than one option. There is indeed more than one option at each location, hence the appropriate use of the word "choices".

Keep in mind that different restaurants do offer different foods -- just not at the cut-rate discounted prices they charge for child meals. Remember that child meals cost about 28% of adult meals. Since the cost of food ingredients is pretty minimal, that difference in price cannot be accounted for solely by smaller portions. There needs to be some other foundation for such insanely low prices (by comparison) for child meals beyond just portion size, and indeed efficiencies of scale is that foundation.

[always on vacation]

I think they should charge something more appropriate for the kid's program like $20. Maybe they could offer 2 levels of kid's dining. I think. ultimately, that you shouldn't have to puchase a meal plan for your kids. I would rather purchase whatever they want at the counter service & just get them an appeitzer & share:hippie: :surfweb: our meals at the TS. It would cost me more than the DDP so Disney wouldnt lose out & my kids could get what they want. I know I have the option of purchasing these things oop but when you are forced to spend money for the plan you sort of feel compelled to use it for something...even if it's something you don't really want...maybe it's just me.

[TDC Nala]

Nobody's forced to spend money on the plan. Everybody has the choice to get the plan or to not get the plan. The only thing you're compelled to do is, if you want the plan for the adults in the party, you're also required to buy the plan for the children.

If the plan for the adults saves so much money, why not get the children's plan, which doesn't cost much anyway, and then supplement the kids' meals out of pocket?

[always on vacation]

That's exactly what we're doing but it does seem a shame that there's not many child sized meals of normal food. You have to either purchase an adult sized portion or share yours & get an extra appetizer. It would be nice if your child could get an appropriately proportioned sized meal of their own of the same type of food on the rest of the menu. Especially since you can each choose what you want instead of having to make that decision on something you are sharing.

[TDC Nala]

That's exactly what we're doing but it does seem a shame that there's not many child sized meals of normal food. You have to either purchase an adult sized portion or share yours & get an extra appetizer. It would be nice if your child could get an appropriately proportioned sized meal of their own of the same type of food on the rest of the menu. Especially since you can each choose what you want instead of having to make that decision on something you are sharing.

If it's suggested enough, Disney may offer larger portions of children's meals, but no doubt at a higher price. The way it is now, it's still a deal to get the dining plan if you supplement the meals for the kids, or share.

[always on vacation]

I agree that it's a great value but I think it's more of a special experience for your child to be able to order their own meal & not having to share someone else's. Ordering an adult meal for them when you know a large portion of it will go uneaten seems like such a waste of food but I know that's what we will be doing some of the time. This is our first time on the ddp & we're looking forward to it.

[Katiebell]

That's exactly what we're doing but it does seem a shame that there's not many child sized meals of normal food. You have to either purchase an adult sized portion or share yours & get an extra appetizer. It would be nice if your child could get an appropriately proportioned sized meal of their own of the same type of food on the rest of the menu. Especially since you can each choose what you want instead of having to make that decision on something you are sharing.

It would be nice from a parent's standpoint -- after all, that's the way we feed our kids at home. We don't eat steak and give them chicken nuggets; we give our kids a smaller steak, if that's what they want. However, if you look at kid's meals at restaurants, that's not the way it works. All kids menus are different offerings, much smaller plates and typically cheaper, plainer foods than the adult menus.

Kids' meals are a loss leader for restaurants. If you offer the kids' meals cheap, maybe just above cost, then the parents will be more willing to pay full price for their own meals, maybe even splurge on extras or a more expensive meal. Look at all the places that offer "kids eat free" on their slower nights.

Kids' meals are plainer foods because most kids balk a bit at blue cheese crusted steak, asparagus with hollandaise, strawberry-rhubarb crumble, or other dishes designed to tempt an adult palate. Some kids may be more gourmet, but most want familiar foods like burgers, fries, pizza, chicken nuggets, and ice cream.

Kids' meals are typically limited to "guests 10 and under" because the restaurants don't intend to feed adults at almost no profit. Some restaurants have started catering to smaller adult appetites with seniors' menus (but you have to meet an age requirement there, too!), or "lighter selections" -- but if you notice the prices aren't necessarily much lower than full-sized portions.

[rolshuk]

I am sorry but no way is my 8 year old eating off the kids menus for 14 days.
I have been through all the menus and there is very little choice and cs and ts meals are very similar.
I will be going to as many buffets and family style TS as possible,for any others we will share or pay oop.DH is not keen on desserts so she can have his and DD13 couldnt eat 3 courses so between us we should be ok.
As for CS meals she will share with us or I will pay oop.
We have got free dinning so I dont mind paying oop and it will not spoil our holiday as I am informed before I go,however if I had paid for the dinning plan and turned up without knowing what was on offer I would have been very upset.I cant argue that it isnt good value because it is for the ts meals alone but if you have a few kids and you think you have budgeted for the kids meals it could be really hard.

[always on vacation]

Luckily we are 3 adult & 1 child..the other way around it would never work.

[englishrose47]

Luckily we are 3 adult & 1 child..the other way around it would never work.

We are 4 adults 1 child in Disney's eyes!!

[bicker]

WDW rule of thumb: Always keep the little ones out-numbered. :lmao:

[always on vacation]

We usually share an appetizer & a dessert between 2 of us & end up taking home a "doggy bag" so I'm confident that there will be plenty of food for all of us.