No Free Dining (not confirmed)

[ginnygi]

Just want to let people know who are waiting to hear about free dining for fall 2010 - I dont think it is happening at this point. I just received an email with pin code for new offer for late summer/fall/early winter. The offer was for 30% off value hotel rates, 35% off moderate, and 40% off deluxe. The offer runs from end of July all the way through mid December, with a few black out dates. But if this pans out the way it has in the past, the pin code offer with eventually be offered to general public in near future. I dont think they will offer free dining and this other room discount at the same time. So this thread is based on my opinion and has absolutely no weight behind it other than logical thinking. But Id like to hear what others think. I was hoping for free dining, but room discount is better than nothing so... Should we hold out hope for free dining? Or just reconcile ourselves to the fact that the dream is dead?:sad2:

[DisneyWeather!]

I am relatively new to watching for the discounts, so I could definitely be wrong, but it seems to me that they have been offering several promos at the same time recently. So, I wouldn't give up on the free dining yet. Also, I tried to compare a couple of the deals that they had going recently and it seemed that the dining and the percentages off the room (mod for us) was about the same for my family. It seems that the promo dept. tries to offer several different deals to try and entice different people with different mind-sets, but in the end, it costs them (Disney) about the same in the end.

[CanadianGuy]

I am relatively new to watching for the discounts, so I could definitely be wrong, but it seems to me that they have been offering several promos at the same time recently. So, I wouldn't give up on the free dining yet. Also, I tried to compare a couple of the deals that they had going recently and it seemed that the dining and the percentages off the room (mod for us) was about the same for my family. It seems that the promo dept. tries to offer several different deals to try and entice different people with different mind-sets, but in the end, it costs them (Disney) about the same in the end.

There are a few exceptions.. (large families or parties traveling in groups) where free dining allows them to make out like bandits in some situations.

But generally.. I think you're right on the money.

Currently the prevailing wind over on the Codes & Rates board (sub board of Resorts) that watches all these offers etc.. is that F/D or *some* fall promo will probably not be announced til late April or early May.

Time will tell.

[marius97]

I've stayed out of the FD debate because I didn't want to get attacked to badly.;) My first thought when I heard someone from Disney (the CEO maybe?) state that they were going to be pulling back from deep discounts in the 2nd half of 2010 was that FD would be gone or severely limited. I know A LOT of people like FD, but I think it hurt the bottom line too much. I believe that they have crunched the numbers and figured out that they can live with fewer people coming with no FD, but those that are there will be spending more per person per day.

[mickey2000]

NO FREE DDP =http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/saynotodisney-sm.jpg

[lauraf]

NO FREE DDP =http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v372/diz/saynotodisney-sm.jpg
So why is FD so bad? Why do you say no to it? It works for me when I go. Its good for me, and I look forward to it. I save a lot. Would I still go without it? of course, I would just pay for the DP. If you went during the FD and it was the only offer would you get it? If not, why? It doesn't matter whether we approve of FD or DP it will always be up to Disney in what they offer. I am not wanting a confrontation I am just curious as to why. It has always been a positive experience for me. So for me it works, while its still here. And I will be enjoying it again this sept. (bounceback offer).

[doccoc2002]

Just want to let people know who are waiting to hear about free dining for fall 2010 - I dont think it is happening at this point. I just received an email with pin code for new offer for late summer/fall/early winter. The offer was for 30% off value hotel rates, 35% off moderate, and 40% off deluxe. The offer runs from end of July all the way through mid December, with a few black out dates. But if this pans out the way it has in the past, the pin code offer with eventually be offered to general public in near future. I dont think they will offer free dining and this other room discount at the same time. So this thread is based on my opinion and has absolutely no weight behind it other than logical thinking. But Id like to hear what others think. I was hoping for free dining, but room discount is better than nothing so... Should we hold out hope for free dining? Or just reconcile ourselves to the fact that the dream is dead?:sad2:

Are you saying that the pin you recieved will automatically turn into a public offer...because some people have recieved a FD pin code for AUG/SEPT time frame. So, if pin codes go out to certain people and then become general public FD may still have a chance.:confused3Who know what Disney will do??? They are starting to make some people crazy sitting here waiting:surfweb: and all they are doing by prolonging this fall offer to come out is pushing people to book elsewhere.

[Minnie321]

I've stayed out of the FD debate because I didn't want to get attacked to badly.;) My first thought when I heard someone from Disney (the CEO maybe?) state that they were going to be pulling back from deep discounts in the 2nd half of 2010 was that FD would be gone or severely limited. I know A LOT of people like FD, but I think it hurt the bottom line too much. I believe that they have crunched the numbers and figured out that they can live with fewer people coming with no FD, but those that are there will be spending more per person per day.

I have been saying this for a long time - stop running all the specials and let those of us that will spend the money do it - frankly I am not returning until the attendance drops - I was there last week and it was by far my worst trip - I thought last summer was, but this took the cake. I was sad when I left - we go at least three times a year and I told my kids to really say goodbye because it would be a while.

[LuccaDrake]

I have been saying this for a long time - stop running all the specials and let those of us that will spend the money do it - frankly I am not returning until the attendance drops - I was there last week and it was by far my worst trip - I thought last summer was, but this took the cake. I was sad when I left - we go at least three times a year and I told my kids to really say goodbye because it would be a while.

Keep in mind that last week was Easter, one (if not the) busiest times of the year at WDW. Attendance is down overall this year so crowds should actually be less than usual. :thumbsup2

[Golf4food]

I have been saying this for a long time - stop running all the specials and let those of us that will spend the money do it - frankly I am not returning until the attendance drops - I was there last week and it was by far my worst trip - I thought last summer was, but this took the cake. I was sad when I left - we go at least three times a year and I told my kids to really say goodbye because it would be a while.

So you've recently been during Easter week - one of the top busiest weeks of the year - and the summer - when they are at highest average attendance due to schools being out...

Of course they're crowded! :scared1:

Maybe try a time of year (if you can) that isn't one of their peak times. :)

[DisneyWeather!]

I have been saying this for a long time - stop running all the specials and let those of us that will spend the money do it - frankly I am not returning until the attendance drops - I was there last week and it was by far my worst trip - I thought last summer was, but this took the cake. I was sad when I left - we go at least three times a year and I told my kids to really say goodbye because it would be a while.

We were there over the 4th of July last summer, supposedly the busiest week of the summer, with the 4/3 deal, and I feared the worst. Instead, I was blown away by the relatively small crowds. It compared to when we went the week after Thanksgiving in '07, supposedly the slowest time of the year. I did buy an Unofficial Guide book and came up with my own "gameplan" going in to our trip, but I really don't think that my "plan" was as vital as the crowd #'s being down. So I was just curious as to which week of the summer did you have such a busy crowd experience?

[KYMickey]

We were there over the 4th of July last summer, supposedly the busiest week of the summer, with the 4/3 deal, and I feared the worst. Instead, I was blown away by the relatively small crowds.
That's because everybody in these days is using the DP's and after planning and eating three meals a day they don't have time or energy to visit the Parks! :thumbsup2

[anthony2k7]

odd... its been available to brits this year and is about to become available for next year as well apparently.

[sweetdana]

FD is only SUPPPPPPPER good for value resorts, and only a little better for Mods. For del room only discounts work out better. At say Poly, it is not even as good as 30% off. As well, it fills resturants up with ressies with free dining, when say a DVCer who pays for the dining plan, or even a non resort guest paying for there ticket into the park, cannot pay for a meal ... ends up buying a QS instead, or driving out of the park. Overall FD, may bring people in, but so will 30% off, and I really believe if it was happening more than just pins, it would have been out by now. Think, Aug 15th is 4 months away.. and counting down.

:confused3 .. IDK, but time will tell.


NO facts.. here just opinions. I agree with poster.. I think it will be a different promo not FD.

[troynkasey]

Free Dining has some effects on more than just attendance. With Free Dining, the Value resorts fill up first. That's because those folks on the fence about going will go and book at a value. If you plan on going and staying deluxe, you're going to do it regardless. If you're going to stay Mod, you may decide the money you save will allow you to upgrade from the mod to the deluxe without much additional out of your pocket.

Here is where free dining has the major effect... Those folks that sign up for free dining and stay value booking ressies or eating counter service at the food court. Counter servce at the food court doesn't compare to staying Mod or Deluxe and eating table service. Plus...Disney makes more on the food aspect and on table service.

Here's the reason why I think the will do away with free dining... Disney has the rooms and infrastructure for guests to stay. So dropping 30% off room rates isn't doing a whole lot but bringing guests to the World. They're booking more rooms, but at a lower profit. BUT, all those guests now are buying their food. THere's your profit margin increase. And they're buying souvenirs.

It has to be a better deal for Disney to offer discounts on room stays than the free dining. Personally, I'd rather have the room discount than the free dining...

[DC7800]

So why is FD so bad? Why do you say no to it? It works for me when I go. Its good for me, and I look forward to it. I save a lot. Would I still go without it? of course, I would just pay for the DP. If you went during the FD and it was the only offer would you get it? If not, why? It doesn't matter whether we approve of FD or DP it will always be up to Disney in what they offer. I am not wanting a confrontation I am just curious as to why. It has always been a positive experience for me. So for me it works, while its still here. And I will be enjoying it again this sept. (bounceback offer).

I'm not Mickey2000, but if I may interject an opinion, the chief concerns over the dining plan in general - and free dining in particular - typically center around food quality, restaurant service and experience, menu selection, and the fact that it frequently overwhelms the priority seating reservation system. From Disney's perspective, they are giving away an awful lot of food/dining reservations which could otherwise have been sold to cash paying customers, they often lose money on table-service dining even among patrons who have purchased the dining plan, and they are turning away most walk-up and last minute reservation business - again from cash paying customers - because the dining room is full of people eating for free. There are other issues, and I'll have more time later, but that's basically the gist of it.

I'm sincerely glad it works for you; Free dining really can be a good savings for a family, and I'm sure you'll enjoy it. To answer your questions (and thanks for asking so nicely), yes - I'd take free dining gladly if it were the best 'deal' available (which, for deluxe resorts, it usually isn't). As you point out it is always up to Disney what deals they offer, so while I can see the damage the dining plan appears to be doing to the Disney dining experience, it's not up to me so we all have to book whatever is available. I do sincerely and firmly believe that both WDW and its guests will be better off in the long term with alternate deals than free dining or even the continuation of the (purchased) dining plan.

I think there probably are ways to modify the dining plan - including free dining - to avoid most of the more serious issues, but I think Disney presenting other offers instead (40% off deluxe, gift cards, etc.) is the more likely outcome.

[skier_pete]

I've posted this many times...but will respond to the OP specifically here.

Discount PIN you got means nothing for whether FD is coming. I got a PIN last February that cover February through December at 40 % OFF. I booked our December trip using it, until the FD came out for December in late-August this past year.

Here's what I say over-and-over again. Every year for 4 years now, the boards are all a twitter how there won't be any FD offer this year. And every year, it gets offered. I think that its only a matter of time until the Values only get free QSDP, but I think you will see it come out for late-August to early-October again this year, and every year.

Here's why, contrary to what PP say - with some exceptions, this is a *much* better deep discount for Disney than say a 40% off room rate. Because with the room discount (1) you are guaranteeing that money is not coming to Disney and (2) there is NO guarantee those people are coming to make up that money in the restaurants.

With FD - they FILL up all the restaurants AND all the hotel rooms, which before FD was a historically slow time of year. Ask around, anyone that used to go at that time of year, it used to be DEAD. Not anymore. If they stop offering FD, some people will still come, but a lot won't - it is a LOUSY time of year to visit WDW...we would NEVER go that time without the big discount. Secondly, yes, they are giving away the food for free - but many people use the dining plan very inefficiently, especially those on free dining. Meals don't get used...because it's *free* people spend more on drinks, or appetizers.

So, what I'm saying is, I would bet $100 that FD will be announced for the early fall. You can pay me later.

[Spanky2]

I am trying to figure which option - 35% room discount, or free dining - would save my family more money.

We have booked the CSR for 7 nights in Sept 2010. The room rate, I believe, was $149 per night. We have 2 rooms (5 people - 2 adults, 3 kids under 10). If I use $149 per night, the total room cost is $2086 and with 35% off the room, I'd save about $730. Free dining would be worth $770 to my family (DDP).

Is my logic correct? The free dining would save my family slightly more money.

[rootbeerkid]

I am trying to figure which option - 35% room discount, or free dining - would save my family more money.

We have booked the CSR for 7 nights in Sept 2010. The room rate, I believe, was $149 per night. We have 2 rooms (5 people - 2 adults, 3 kids under 10). If I use $149 per night, the total room cost is $2086 and with 35% off the room, I'd save about $730. Free dining would be worth $770 to my family (DDP).

Is my logic correct? The free dining would save my family slightly more money.

CSR rack rates would be $149 weekday, $159 weekend with added tax. Price quoted by Disney website for 7 nights in September for 2 room totals $2392 ($2126 + ~$265 tax). So 35% savings would be ~$837. Assuming that all childern are greater than age 3, for 7 nights, dining plan would be ~$790 ($39.95*2+$10.99*3 per day). If math is correct, 35% discount would save ~$47.

[IslandAdventure4]

We just booked our trip for early October. We just had this depate too. We booked the DP with our trip. If they do announce the free DP, should we use the room discount of the free DP. I will be following the discussion to come. Let the debate continue ;)

[marius97]

CSR rack rates would be $149 weekday, $159 weekend with added tax. Price quoted by Disney website for 7 nights in September for 2 room totals $2392 ($2126 + ~$265 tax). So 35% savings would be ~$837. Assuming that all childern are greater than age 3, for 7 nights, dining plan would be ~$790 ($39.95*2+$10.99*3 per day). If math is correct, 35% discount would save ~$47.

I've never stayed onsite so this is more a question than a statement...Does the percentage off the rack rate include the % off of tax. That would suprise me if it does. If that is the case, then it would save less.

[rootbeerkid]

I've never stayed onsite so this is more a question than a statement...Does the percentage off the rack rate include the % off of tax. That would suprise me if it does. If that is the case, then it would save less.

According to allears, CSR charges "6.5% Florida Sales Tax and 6% County Resort Tax". Whatever the charge might be (discounted or rack), the additional 12.5% is added to the total. A 35% discount of the room-only rate would result in 35% less tax liability. I hope I've understood and answered the question "correcticly".

[Spanky2]

CSR rack rates would be $149 weekday, $159 weekend with added tax. Price quoted by Disney website for 7 nights in September for 2 room totals $2392 ($2126 + ~$265 tax). So 35% savings would be ~$837. Assuming that all childern are greater than age 3, for 7 nights, dining plan would be ~$790 ($39.95*2+$10.99*3 per day). If math is correct, 35% discount would save ~$47.

Thanks! I guess the difference between the 2 offers is still minimal, but 35% off would be better.

I don't really care WHAT they offer at this point.....just offer something!

[bsmith1997]

My family has enjoyed the free dining every year it has been offered, and were really hoping it would happen again this year. But even if there is no free dining we are still planning a trip during late August this year. Only reason we haven't booked yet is we are waiting for any discounts Disney may offer. I am a Disney visa holder and haven't heard anything for late August yet. With no discounts we will probably stay Moderate and purchase the dining, if the discount off hotel is true, we will stay Polynesian and purchase the dining plan. I've done the math going as far to study menus on Allears.net and price all things we would probably eat and we would save money purchasing the dining plan for our family and really like the convenience of it. I just want some sort of Discount...Please Disney don't keep us waiting anymore :rolleyes1

[CandyMandy]

This whole discussion is a textbook example of why firms have to be very careful when it comes to their discounting strategy.

If used properly, they can temporarily shift demand and in rarer cases actually grow it. However, if not managed carefully, clients can become addicted to discounts and start "demanding " them. In that scenario the firm is both stuck offering them and permanently lowering its gross margin.

I'm sure Disney is aware of this and that there is vigorous internal debate going on in the parks and resorts division over when and how to "wean" people away from free dining.

[Uncleromulus]

If you guys ever review the restaurants Board, it's interesting to see all the takes on Free Dining over the past few years.
To some it's manna from heaven. To others, it's responsible for the general decline in Disney food and menus. So many people eating at WDW restaurants who probably wouldn't have otherwise except that it's free. And because many of them will eat anything (and a lot of it) so long as it's "free" Disney is "free" not to care a whole lot about quality.

[OldsDr]

I don't think it is Free dinning that is cause of the decline in food quality it is the DP in general tied to the quest of ever higher profit margins.

It all started when they started shifting away from menues and goiung to more all you care to eat type options. I remeber specifically in the early 90s ordering off a menu at Biergarten and it was great I got some sort of pork leg and it was big. then about 12 or so years later they inroduced the DP. when everyone is paying the same price for a meal if it is a NY Strip or pot roast or meat loaf. You are going to sart moving the menus to the pot roast and meat loaf type foods and away from unique and more costly foods to increase your profit margins. Then if every restaurant is serving similar foods you increase your volume and purchasing power from the distributors.

If I had my way, which I dont, they would get rid of the DP all together and I would start eating more meals on property.

[marius97]

This whole discussion is a textbook example of why firms have to be very careful when it comes to their discounting strategy.

If used properly, they can temporarily shift demand and in rarer cases actually grow it. However, if not managed carefully, clients can become addicted to discounts and start "demanding " them. In that scenario the firm is both stuck offering them and permanently lowering its gross margin.

I'm sure Disney is aware of this and that there is vigorous internal debate going on in the parks and resorts division over when and how to "wean" people away from free dining.

That is exactly what I was trying to say...just WAY more eloquently than I could manage.

[MassJester]

Nothing is "free."

It's been my experience that the "cost" of "free dining" is an overall reduction in quality.

I hope they do away with it.

[joliesmom]

I don't think it is Free dinning that is cause of the decline in food quality it is the DP in general tied to the quest of ever higher profit margins.
If I had my way, which I dont, they would get rid of the DP all together and I would start eating more meals on property.
I totally agree with your post. I would be more than happy if the dining plan disappeared or in the least was not free anymore. I keep hoping Disney will return to quality food.

[lbunton115]

My husband, two daughters and I have reservations at the Pop Century his coming September and we did get the free dining (1 sit down, 1 quick meal and 1 snack). Of course, we make our reservations while we were at Disney last year (it was the bounce back offer). We have called Disney a could of times and each time the Disney employee goes on and on what a great deal we have reserved.:littleangel:

[DC7800]

they inroduced the DP. when everyone is paying the same price for a meal if it is a NY Strip or pot roast or meat loaf. You are going to sart moving the menus to the pot roast and meat loaf type foods and away from unique and more costly foods to increase your profit margins. Then if every restaurant is serving similar foods you increase your volume and purchasing power from the distributors.

Well said, and a good explanation of the general decline in WDW dining standards and quality.

Nothing is "free."

It's been my experience that the "cost" of "free dining" is an overall reduction in quality.

That's not a price I'm willing to pay.

[Karlzmom]

I've never stayed onsite so this is more a question than a statement...Does the percentage off the rack rate include the % off of tax. That would suprise me if it does. If that is the case, then it would save less.

Tax would be figured on a smaller amount paid, so even at the same % rate, the total tax paid would be less.

[KYMickey]

I don't think it is Free dinning that is cause of the decline in food quality it is the DP in general tied to the quest of ever higher profit margins.

It all started when they started shifting away from menues and goiung to more all you care to eat type options. I remeber specifically in the early 90s ordering off a menu at Biergarten and it was great I got some sort of pork leg and it was big. then about 12 or so years later they inroduced the DP. when everyone is paying the same price for a meal if it is a NY Strip or pot roast or meat loaf. You are going to sart moving the menus to the pot roast and meat loaf type foods and away from unique and more costly foods to increase your profit margins. Then if every restaurant is serving similar foods you increase your volume and purchasing power from the distributors.

If I had my way, which I dont, they would get rid of the DP all together and I would start eating more meals on property.
+1 :goodvibes

[skier_pete]

This whole discussion is a textbook example of why firms have to be very careful when it comes to their discounting strategy.

If used properly, they can temporarily shift demand and in rarer cases actually grow it. However, if not managed carefully, clients can become addicted to discounts and start "demanding " them. In that scenario the firm is both stuck offering them and permanently lowering its gross margin.

I'm sure Disney is aware of this and that there is vigorous internal debate going on in the parks and resorts division over when and how to "wean" people away from free dining.

Interesting philosiphy. Previous to the dining plan and free dining program...Disney was losing a lot of money because their resorts, parks and restaurants were quite empty during the late-August through September. Free dining has in fact boosted revenues significantly during this time. I suppose if they could as you mention "wean" the public away from the free dining and still get them to come, it would be a major win...but since they weren't coming BEFORE free dining, even when the economy was good...would they come without it. I can tell you this...we've gone twice during that time, and the ONLY way I would go is if I get as good a deal as free dining. 45 % off rack-rate might do it, but especially when DD turns 10, if I gotta go at this time of year, I better be getting those free meals.



Quote: Nothing is "free." It's been my experience that the "cost" of "free dining" is an overall reduction in quality.

That's not a price I'm willing to pay.

I'm not sure how you have a choice?

I've never stayed onsite so this is more a question than a statement...Does the percentage off the rack rate include the % off of tax. That would suprise me if it does. If that is the case, then it would save less.

You are paying less for your hotel room, therefore you pay the tax (12.5 % for most hotels) on the lower rate. 35 % of room rate means 35 % off the taxes as well.

[MassJester]

I'm not sure how you have a choice?



By refusing to purchase.

I used to eat at signature restaurants much more frequenly than I do now. They were priced high, but the experiences were almost always good. Promotion efforts that are focused solely on quantity are at odds with maintaining quality.

The result has been that some "signature" restaurant experiences have declined, and I (and perhaps people similarly situated) will simply make do with a sandwich from time to time.

[KYMickey]

By refusing to purchase.

I used to eat at signature restaurants much more frequenly than I do now. They were priced high, but the experiences were almost always good. Promotion efforts that are focused solely on quantity are at odds with maintaining quality.

The result has been that some "signature" restaurant experiences have declined, and I (and perhaps people similarly situated) will simply make do with a sandwich from time to time.
It's the same thing that has been happening with us. Our special meals used to be at signature restaurants, now they're off site.

[mitros]

This whole discussion is a textbook example of why firms have to be very careful when it comes to their discounting strategy.

If used properly, they can temporarily shift demand and in rarer cases actually grow it. However, if not managed carefully, clients can become addicted to discounts and start "demanding " them. In that scenario the firm is both stuck offering them and permanently lowering its gross margin.

I'm sure Disney is aware of this and that there is vigorous internal debate going on in the parks and resorts division over when and how to "wean" people away from free dining.

AND, in order to continue to make these offers, and not make enough money, the company will make cuts elsewhere. Longer lines, less cast members to do things that NEED to be done, including safety procedures, and maintenance, as well as keeping things neat and clean. "You don't get somethin' for nuthin"

[skier_pete]

By refusing to purchase.

I used to eat at signature restaurants much more frequenly than I do now. They were priced high, but the experiences were almost always good. Promotion efforts that are focused solely on quantity are at odds with maintaining quality.

The result has been that some "signature" restaurant experiences have declined, and I (and perhaps people similarly situated) will simply make do with a sandwich from time to time.

This is absolutely the best (and only) thing you can do. If enough people refuse to pay the prices, perhaps there will be change.

Unfortunately, I won't be joining you. We enjoy the food very much, and have not really noticed the "perilous decline in quality".

[mitros]

By refusing to purchase.

I used to eat at signature restaurants much more frequenly than I do now. They were priced high, but the experiences were almost always good. Promotion efforts that are focused solely on quantity are at odds with maintaining quality.

The result has been that some "signature" restaurant experiences have declined, and I (and perhaps people similarly situated) will simply make do with a sandwich from time to time.

Thank you, Jester, you said a mouthful. We feel pretty much the same way. :sad2:

[mightyminnie]

I think that the quality of the food is an interesting subject. I guess I hadn't thought of it that way.

I was going to vent about not having free dining for people who don't have a lot of money, but I decided it wasn't worth it and now I'm editing it. LOL:hippie:

[Kronk N Tink]

Just recieved this e-mail.....


Hungry for a Disney deal?

Good. Because we're about to offer you a great one...one that makes for a tasty and convenient way to enjoy Disney meals and snacks throughout your stay!

Enjoy the Disney Quick-Service
Dining Plan, FREE

when you purchase a 4-night/5-day non-discounted Walt Disney Travel Company vacation package that includes accommodations at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels and Theme Park tickets! For stays most nights now through 8/14/10.

Check out the sample pricing on these
Disney Resort categories.
Enjoy savings of US $127 per adult!

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*The number of packages available at these rates is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price for the same package. Tickets are for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. No group rates or other discounts apply. Offer is nontransferable. Advance reservations required.

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Be ready with your PIN:
(edited)

Ask about great rates at Disney Deluxe Resorts and Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts when you call!

found it interesting they're offering quick service only via pin so far.... and not even for the slow season.

[Diamond Dave]

The subject of free dinning is very interesting for me as a UK visitor. It seems that after reading the posts here that WDW offers either a room discount 10,20,or 30% depending on what type of resort you choose or it has in the past offered FD, again the type depending on where you stay QSDP for the values/ moderate and DP for the deluxe. Here in the UK I booked a 14nt stay at OKW 1 BDRM villa at a 48% discount off advertised price (8/24-9/7) and when purchased with a 14 day ultimate park ticket (again discounted 14 nts for the price of 7) then the DP was included free. This offer has been heavily advertised on TV and I know that this deal is also available for 2011 bookings as well (Through Virgin). So it seems that it can only be a matter of time before FD in some form is offered in the States.

However there is a downside of FD, having again read the forums and realising that all the best resturants are booked so far in advance with people booking ADRs' in the hope of FD i have had to book tables for meals 180 days in advance rather than walk up and eat what i fancy at the time. This type of planning is alien to me and kind of takes a bit of getting my head round. It also makes me think that if WDW resturants are so fully booked 180 or so days out then why would WDW offer FD. How many of those ADR's would be cancelled if no FD was available.

Just wondering...

[skater]

Somehow I really doubt that if Disney does away with FD or even the dining plan altogether, the quality will improve :sad2:.

[delilah]

We got a post card earlier this week for free dining on the quick service plan (2 counter service meals and 2 snack credits a day). It is running until mid-August. You need to book a package with a rack rate room and park ticket. We have DVC, and this offer wouldn't be that attractive to us. We have a DVC discount on an annual pass, and the room is already prepaid. We are going to splurge and get the standard dining plan, and actually pay less money for the trip.

[OldsDr]

Somehow I really doubt that if Disney does away with FD or even the dining plan altogether, the quality will improve :sad2:.

Not right away. But it would set the ground work for improvements to begin. With no dinning plan they would then probably have a restaurant somewhere try something new or different. and because it is different everyone will want to go there. prompting other restaurants to start offering unique items . That would start the pedulum swinning back the other way. At least as far as getting differnet Items offered

[DC7800]

Somehow I really doubt that if Disney does away with FD or even the dining plan altogether, the quality will improve

Discontinuance of the Dining Plan would at least remove one incentive for restaurants to continue the decline of food quality, quantity, and variety (within a general lessening of the Disney dining experience).

[SDSorority]

Discontinuance of the Dining Plan would at least remove one incentive for restaurants to continue the decline of food quality, quantity, and variety (within a general lessening of the Disney dining experience).

Good point.

I'm glad that there isn't FD so far! I have had NO problem making my ressies this year for the times I wanted!! :thumbsup2

[black562]

Ok guys, as I posted in my blog earlier, I figured it would be mentioned here by now. Sources are saying that Disney is going to release free dining on May 3rd for the dates of August 15-October 2. Its also looking very likely that value resorts will get quick service, while mods and deluxes will get the regular plan. Of course, if you stay in a value, you can upgrade to the regular plan for $10 per person per day. Also, as in prior years, its likely that Disney Visa holders will get to book two or three days prior.

That's what we have so far...of course, its Disney so anything can change.

[ConcKahuna]

I heard the non-Disney (table service) restaurants only get something like $5-7 per adult on the DDP. If people dont think that would cause a decline in quality, they're on something.

And non-Disney restaurants aren't just at DTD. Most of the Epcot restaurants are 3rd party:

San Angel
Nine Dragons
Biergarten
Tutu Italia
Teppan Edo/Tokyo Dining
Marrakesh
le Celier
Chefs de France
Rose & Crown.

[canopynut66]

Have seen fall free dining not offered until late October and then Disney will extend it again. And the Magic Dining not just the counter service:confused3

[Lewisc]

Discontinuance of the Dining Plan would at least remove one incentive for restaurants to continue the decline of food quality, quantity, and variety (within a general lessening of the Disney dining experience).

Disney wanted to fill their restaurants, not just CRT and a few other popular restaurants. DDP gives guests a way to budget the cost of dining and ensures guests eat most of their meals at Disney restaurants. Reducing costs/improving efficiency is a natural consequence of that approach.
AFAIK V&A is the only Disney restaurant that doesn't participate with DDP. AFAIK Bistro is about the only non-Disney restaurant on property that doesn't participate. Disney could remove a couple of restaurants from the DDP. The fact is there aren't enough guests willing to pay the kind of prices necessary for the profit Disney is looking for together with the cost of operating that type of restaurant.

Guests willing to pay for a different dining experience can consider Bistro in EPCOT as well as the restaurants in the S/W. Shula's, blueZoo and Il Mulino all get good reviews.


I heard the non-Disney (table service) restaurants only get something like $5-7 per adult on the DDP. If people dont think that would cause a decline in quality, they're on something.

.....
le Celier
Chefs de France
Rose & Crown.

I think Le Cellier is a Disney run restaurant. The number used to be $25-$27 (I don't remember the exact number). I think it went up. Non-Disney restaurants ring up the cost of the food you order but show a discount which brings the amount down to what Disney is reimbursing the restaurant. We rarely get that receipt but you can see it if you're by the register when your check is being closed out.

A restaurant should be able to offer a reasonable price fixed menu for $27. Most price fixed menus at least include a soup or salad. Disney is offering an entree, dessert and non-alcoholic drinks.