Kona, HoopDeeDo or Mickey's Backyard Bar-b-que

[SyracuseOrange]

We are arriving on Saturday, December 12 and staying at the Poly. We are arriving around mid-afternoon. I couldn't get reservations at Ohana so I'm trying to decide where to eat for dinner. It is my kids first time at Disney. Would you recommend one over the other for a first night dinner?

[MouseMomx2]

'Ohana would be my first choice as well. My advice is to keep trying (being obsessive, if necessary) using a variety of times to see if something opens up. You are still about 3 months out from your trip so I think you've got a pretty good shot at getting something.

In the meantime I'd book the Hoop-Dee-Doo. It's a quintessential Disney experience that's great for both adults and families. If something does open up at 'Ohana you can then cancel the Hoop-Dee-Doo.

As for your other options...Kona has great food, but is not at all exciting. It's just a standard table-service restaurant. We have never done Mickey's Backyard Barbecue but I would say it would depend on the ages of your kids. I think younger kids would enjoy it more than teens. Perhaps someone who has done it will be able to offer better feedback.

One other thought...have you considered going to the Luau at the Poly?

Have a great trip!

[lala3291]

Hoop Dee Doo is so much fun! I think that your kids will love it! My kids certainly do. It is a great way to start your vacation, in my opinion. We go every trip!

[SyracuseOrange]

My kids are 7 and 5, if that helps.

[iloveeeyore]

Hoop Dee Doo is an absolute HOOT and our very favorite dining experience in all of the world (not just WDW). It would make a great first night dinner!

HOWEVER...keep in mind that you must use a credit card to secure a reservation, and you must cancel in advance (I think it's 48 hours) in order not to be charged...This is bad if you somehow miss your flight or it's cancelled or delayed for weather or equipment problems...

Personally, we never schedule it or any other book-in-advance event for the first night, just in case. I'd be way too stressed out. Maybe you are calmer than I about these things. I'd keep trying for 'Ohana. We also really enjoy Chef Mickey's on our first night. I agree with PP that Kona is a nice restaurant, but not at all entertaining. Another easily accessible character meal would be 1900 Park Fare. We have never been, but I've heard the character interaction (Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine and the nasty stepsisters) is great. You can either walk or take the monorail to the GF.

Have a great time, whatever you decide!