Alternative to priority seating/reservations?

[PK56]

I'm trying to help my neighbor with his trip Oct 15-18 and he has waited too long to get seating at the only restaurants he is interested in visiting - Rainforest Cafe and Sci Fi Drive In. My question is, are there bars at either or both that they could just go in, have a drink, and look around? What are the chances he could get in without reservations? I've always had my plans set 90 days in advance, don't know how to advise him on this.

 

[jworkkul]

Sci Fi doesn't have a bar so his chances of a walk up are pretty slim to none. He should make a ressie for that. At Rain Forest, though, they have a very good bar with terrific stools make to look like animals. And they serve a full menu at the bar. When we go we don't make ressies at RainForest anymore, we like to sit at the bar and eat. Sometimes, depending on the bartenders, they can put on a show that is enjoyable to watch.

 

[MouseMomx2]

He should call the Rainforest Cafe directly. The RC is owned/operated by Landry's, not Disney. They only release a small number of tables to the Disney reservation system but he should have little trouble booking a table directly through the restaurant. The number for the location at the Downtown Disney Marketplace is (407) 827-8500. If they would prefer the Animal Kingdom location call (407) 938-9100.

As for the Sci-Fi, have him keep trying...every day if necessary. If they don't get anything before they arrive at WDW have them try in person at Guest Relations or at the restaurant itself.

 

[notaclue]

Last week we walked up for lunch at Sci Fi and only had to wait about 20 mins. It was so worth the wait.

 

[PK56]

Great tips, thanks everyone!!

 

[worm761]

DBF always ends up wanting to eat at RFC when we are at AK. We have had great success with walk up there. The waits weren't bad. And if you buy the Safari Club card you get front of the line privileges even when you don't make ressies! That was nice to learn.
As far as Sci Fi, have him call daily to see if they have any availability. It isn't that busy in October he may get a walk up if he goes at an off time. Prime lunch and dinner hours will be booked solid though.