Best Dinning suggestions without an ADR

[MrsTigger]

We're planning on going to beaches and cream one evening but where else would you suggest for a meal without having booked a ADR?

 

[torsie24]

I'd say the hotels are your best bet.

Would you consider lunch?

We walked into a very empty Kona and also had lunch in Whispering Canyon and it certainly wasn't full.

Or for dinner would you consider maybe just trying for an ADR at lunchtime that day? I recon you could find a few that way. Especially less popular, more out of the way places, like Sanaa or The Wave.

 

[wilma-bride]

It really depends what time of year you're going and how many in your party. Most places (save the very popular) would be able to accommodate a party of two at off-peak dining times (early or late dinner, for example). During slower months (Feb, May, Sep, Nov) you also shouldn't have problems at some of the less popular places.

As the PP stated, the resort restaurants are generally easier to get into (with the exception of places like Chef Mickeys, 'Ohana and other popular/character meals).

 

[MrsTigger]

I'd say the hotels are your best bet.

Would you consider lunch?

We walked into a very empty Kona and also had lunch in Whispering Canyon and it certainly wasn't full.

Or for dinner would you consider maybe just trying for an ADR at lunchtime that day? I recon you could find a few that way. Especially less popular, more out of the way places, like Sanaa or The Wave.

Yes we would, I know beaches and cream can be busy during the usual dining times so I we're thinking of maybe late lunch maybe 2-3pmish

 

[MrsTigger]

It really depends what time of year you're going and how many in your party. Most places (save the very popular) would be able to accommodate a party of two at off-peak dining times (early or late dinner, for example). During slower months (Feb, May, Sep, Nov) you also shouldn't have problems at some of the less popular places.

As the PP stated, the resort restaurants are generally easier to get into (with the exception of places like Chef Mickeys, 'Ohana and other popular/character meals).

We're going in may and there's just two of us, so it sounds like we might have a good choice still

 

[Kath2003]

We're going in may and there's just two of us, so it sounds like we might have a good choice still

You'll be fine everywhere with just the two of you as long as you avoid peak mealtimes. Try early or late. We have walked into many restaurants with no ADR at peak season. Buffets have a high turnover and usually seat you within minutes. For full service places you might have to wait a bit. The hotel restaurants are generally fine. Avoid 8-9:30am 12:30-2pm and 7-8:30pm and you'll have no issues.

 

[MrsTigger]

Ok thanks, we're planning to watch Illuminations that evening so any suggestions I for somewhere near or in Epcot?

 

[torsie24]

We really enjoyed Via Napoli. I'd love to go to Teppan Edo too.

If you know you'll be in EPCOT it might be worth making an ADR anyway.

 

[wilma-bride]

Ok thanks, we're planning to watch Illuminations that evening so any suggestions I for somewhere near or in Epcot?

Tokyo dining is supposed to be lovely - or Via Napoli if you're pizza fans.

 

[jen_uk]

Dh and I book very few meals and we have never had a problem eating onsite, we have to travel at peaks times as well because of my job. I can't imagine you will have problems getting into many places in May

 

[hogwartsdropout]

Ok thanks, we're planning to watch Illuminations that evening so any suggestions I for somewhere near or in Epcot?

My DBF and I managed to get a reservation last week on the day for Rose and Crown for Illuminations time. Always try and see if anything last minute comes up, you might be lucky like we were!

Nine Dragons and San Angel Inn always seem to have reservations available.

Outside of Epcot, Kona Cafe, Olivia's, and The Wave always seem to be available last minute. I've been to the first two and they are so good!

Also Trail's End Restaurant at Fort Wilderness is usually available last minute, it's a bit of a trek to get there, but it's a really good dinner buffet.

 

[WiganTony]

Ok thanks, we're planning to watch Illuminations that evening so any suggestions I for somewhere near or in Epcot?

We've had very good meals at the Captain's Grill at the Yacht Club. If you are driving, park up at the Yacht Club, then after your meal, have a stroll along the path to the International gateway at the back of EPCOT (between France and UK) - takes about 10 minutes. If you are using the buses, catch the bus to EPCOT then walk through World Showcase to the aforementioned exit.