Fantasmic dessert buffet

[emmabelle]

We decided to book the Fantasmic Dessert Buffet after reading about it here. I can't wait, this is a once in a lifetime trip so we decided to be a little extravagant. My question is what percentage do parties usually tip? We are two adults and two children. I am assuming that there won't be a bill since we have already purchased tickets. Do you usually leave the tip on the table or hand it to the waiter? Thanks!

 

[Amy&Dan]

I have done this twice. The first time I did not tip the second time I gave the castmember who brought us our drinks $5. She seemed really surprised and told us we didn't have to do this. Bottom line is that I think most people don't tip since it is a buffet and so expensive!

 

[Amberle3]

I have to say that I never once even thought of tipping them. Nor apparently did anyone in my party.

It's not like a big ol' dinner buffet. You're let onto the balcony, shown where the table is and someone takes a drink order and brings you a drink. You might even get a refill while you're up there. But for $50, the tip had darn well better be built into the price of the buffet.

I mean really the value of the food you're getting is maybe $25, if you were to purchase the desserts and beverage separately out in the park. I'd probably go more with $20. So most of what you're paying for is the view and the "specialness" of being there.

 

[emmabelle]

I was kinda of hoping that was the case, but if I know my husband like I think I do, he'll want to leave a tip. I was thinking of maybe just leaving $5 like you would if you were at a pool bar. I just needed some replies to back me up. Thanks!

 

[muffyn]

I have read that it is better to get the 1st seats open for the balcony seatings.

can someone explain why? how are they set up?(are there people blocking your view by several rows?) at which seat number should you reconsider & go for the 'other' show to get a lower number seat?

with the seating at the haunted mansion, do they serve the deserts or give you a 'box' of them( I read somwhere about that). is the haunted mansion site more prone to weather? than the balcony? (if its chilly out, is the balcony a better bet?)

what kind of drinks do they serve?? they only serve TILL the show starts? both drinks & food?? how about after??

thanks!!!!!!!!!!

( I am sooooo glad I can call for ressies, if I tried going the day OF, my hubby would tell me I am 'bats' for spending all that money,, this way I can have them bought & surprise him!!!)

 

[Firefly777]

If I remember right, the seating is no more than 2 or 3 rows deep.

The other location isn't by the Haunted Mansion, it's actually at the other end of the river at the River Belle Terrace.

It's been a few years, but I do remember than serving lemonade and a couple of other drink options, but I can't remember.

 

[Amy&Dan]

The rows are two deep. Even if you are in the back you still have a good view and you can always stand. My daughter aged 7 just kind of sat on knees to see above those sitting in front of us. They serve coffee, tea, soft drinks and non alcholic mint juelps. I believe the other seating gets a box, is no cheaper but has more seats available. You call the same number to reserve those. They continue to have the buffet out the whole time. The cast members are close by (its a small balcony) to refill drinks but not once the show starts since they might block the view. Since you get there a half hour early you are usually filled up by the time the show starts. I have done this twice, front and back and just love it. Beware however, you won't want to watch fantasmic any other way from now on! Have a great time!

 

[WebmasterMaryJo]

<font color=navy>I just sat at the premium seating for the Fantasmic Dessert Buffet this past April, and we sat in a fenced in/ roped off area by the river in front of the Haunted Mansion. You now get a dessert buffet, and the cast members will bring your drinks to you up till the show starts. There was a nice variety of desserts.

 

[lulubelle]

I have to say we never thought of tipping, either. It didn't seem appropriate. The price you pay for this is 1/2 for the desserts and beverages and 1/2 for the view of the show. It is definately something to do once if you can afford it. We had an absolutely wonderful time and not having to fight the crowds after a long day is worth it to me. But, that said, I wouldn't splurge for this every visit. JMHO