Just back from PORFQ.
Yes, the scraping of the plates is gross! And, the grab and go station right in the middle is very unpleasant looking, takes up room and takes away from the whole look of the food court.
No lines at the freestyle machines, but different ones were broken at different times throughout our stay. Aren't they brand new? Plus, be careful if you get too much ice and have to dump some back. If the ice gets into the mug sensor, you'll have to pick it out before the mug will work. And, the space between the top of the freestyle machine island and the "unfinished float" truly looks unfinished in itself. Something is not right about the way there is unfinished space there. Certainly they could have done something better with it.
The bus station at PORFQ at rush time in the am is crazy! We are Florida residents and go to WDW a lot - including every major holiday weekend. We usually stay at POP Century. I know POP Century is bigger so that is probably the reason for this. But, the way PORFQ has only 2 bus stations for multiple parks, with no distinct lines is not good. There was an argument going on at the HS station one morning between 2 groups of adults (no, not us!!). People were standing there first - but, were back further from where you board. Others passed them right by and went closer to where the bus actually loads (which is very easy to do since there are 2 parks loading at each station and just a gang of people all standing together). Anyway, there was yelling between 2 groups of people loading the same bus and even yelling at the bus driver. POP Century definitely wins with this one - each destination has its own stop with ropes up to keep the line in order. Yes, it is uncovered but at least there is definite order!
We did not have a flyer in our room regarding future discounts.
There were long lines going to Disney Springs at approx 6:00pm by boat. Boats only hold about 35 guests and the wait was long, so if you need to get to DS for ressies around that time, give yourself extra time. We only went over for the drone light show, and DS was totally packed with people - the show only lasted about 5 minutes.
And, maybe others already know this but check-in at 3:00pm is not guaranteed. Check-in can be any where between 3:00-5:00pm.
I know some will disagree and pick my comments apart - but these are only my observations.