DVC Resorts and Meals

[hedge333]

I am planning a trip for my little family. We are considering renting points for a studio for the first time. Our only worry is meals. We tend to eat a lot of quick service meals. It is just easier for us to not worry about reservations and have more flexibility on meal times, etc. As I have researched different resorts in our price range, I am finding that our meal options may be limited. We're used to the moderates and values with food courts. Any suggestions?

Thanks in advance!

 

[Granny]

It's true that DVC resorts don't have a lot of counter service options. In my opinion, Contempo at Contemporary/BLT is the best but none of them have "food courts".

My suggestion would be to stay at a DVC resort like BWV or BCV that has easy access to the counter services in EPCOT as well as Boardwalk Bakery and the Beach Club market. Or SSR which has easy access to Disney Springs and all their food options.

 

[hakepb]

Yes, this was our biggest adjustment to staying Deluxe/DVC. For the most part we learned to go to a park, then eat. Instead of eating at the resort, then going to a park.

It is all personal preference. My family was happier eating repeadly at Poly's Captain Cook this summer than they have ever been at any other DVC resort.

And it's kinda nifty, you order at the counter, get a pager and sit down. they find you and bring you the food, (kinda like BOG lunch)

 

[RunningAriel]

The only DVC resorts that do not have dedicated food courts are Boardwalk and Beach Club. For some with small children or picky eaters this could be a problem but you do have direct access to Epcot. SSR and OKW both have food courts and you have direct access to Disney Springs via walking (SSR) or boating (from both) so that opens up a ton of options! Every DVC resort has a grab and go area with bottled drinks, snacks, etc.

 

[BillPA]

No DVC has food courts, most have a counter service area. BWV has nothing, BCV has a small counter in the gift shop, OKW and SSR each have an area but since both are so spread out, only a few locations are close. Poly, BLT, VWL, VGF have counter service located in the resort hotel buildings. AK jambo has a fast food location near the pool, Kadani only has a pool bar with pre-made sandwiches.

 

[Deb & Bill]

No DVC has food courts, most have a counter service area. BWV has nothing, BCV has a small counter in the gift shop, OKW and SSR each have an area but since both are so spread out, only a few locations are close. Poly, BLT, VWL, VGF have counter service located in the resort hotel buildings. AK jambo has a fast food location near the pool, Kadani only has a pool bar with pre-made sandwiches.

SSR actually has two counter service areas - Artist's Palette at the Carriage House and a counter service at the Paddock pool. OKW probably has the smallest counter service as it was the first DVC and they thought most guests would probably eat in their villas or at Olivia's (the table service). Goods to Go was just supposed to be snacks/lunch at the main pool.

 

[hakepb]

In addition, BCV has a 2nd QS by the pool, Hurricane Hannas with burgers and a few other entrees. Poly also has a 2nd grill area by the Oasis pool. (Although it is a smaller selection than Captain Cooks). Poly also has a Dole whip stand

Of course BCV and BWV guests can stroll into the best food court in WDW, World Showcase

 

[crisi]

No DVC has food courts, most have a counter service area. BWV has nothing, BCV has a small counter in the gift shop, OKW and SSR each have an area but since both are so spread out, only a few locations are close. Poly, BLT, VWL, VGF have counter service located in the resort hotel buildings. AK jambo has a fast food location near the pool, Kadani only has a pool bar with pre-made sandwiches.

BW has the expanded BW Bakery and what I still think of as the Spoodles Pizza Window. There is seating outside both. And the To Go Cart, Boardwalk Joes, Ample Hills Creamery and the Funnel Cake stand. But no interior fast food seating. Also the pool bar serves food. The area is generally walkable - with hoppers getting to Epcot for a meal isn't hard, and the Swan Dolphin are within strolling distance.

However, OP, since you are talking about budget - you should know it can be difficult to rent some of the budget options - i.e. Boardwalk Standard View or Value rooms at VAKL.

 

[DenLo]

Food courts are just not available at Disney's deluxe resorts which DVC resorts are usually attached to. You might take the advice hakepb and plan to eat at the park sometimes instead of at the resort. We also order in pizza, the concierge or front desk will have recommended pizza companies. And if you head to Disney Springs there are ton of places to eat there now another plus for SSR IMO.