Many kids meals have a package at table service restaurants that is called a complete meal, which is why appetizers are included. Disney does this to try to get as many healthy items in the food group as possible to kids. Especially since non-healthy foods tend to appeal to most kids, a healthy appetizer/snack can be snuck in until the less healthy food arrives. If they are hungry enough, they just might eat it. These appetizers are usually soups, vegetables or another somewhat healthy item. They are not typically cheese fries or any other less than healthy item you would find on an adult's menu. The portions are very small and also designed to get kids eating as soon as possible (to help Moms and Dads out). My son used to whine when he was hungry and was not interested in waiting. I found that a piece of bread, crackers or something very small kept him happy. Disney knows kids like no one else. It wants to keep kids (and their parents) happy. If the kids do not order a complete meal, they will usually allow them to order a separate appetizer to fulfill both purposes. The deluxe dining plan does include the appetizer. I think Disney separated the plans a few years back to give people options. People who do not want three meals a day or are not big eaters (getting appetizers and desserts at each meal) can now order the less expensive dining plan. I think Disney needs to create another dining plan that gives two table service meals a day for people who do not like counter service but cannot handle three large meals a day and are not interested in having signature meals everyday either! If Disney allowed substitutions for a more expensive appetizer over a cheaper dessert, I am thinking the price per day would go up. Many people skip the dessert (since they do not want to tip on something they are not interested in consuming) and this saves Disney money. If they were spending more money, they would more than likely charge more money. I know some people would be fine with that, so maybe they should introduce yet another slightly more expensive plan that allows you to choose between an appetizer and dessert. I hope you have a great anniversary. Caribbean Beach is a great resort. We enjoyed both our stays there.
