FL Resident Disney Dining Experience Tip

[Eljay]

Just a heads up to all who are Disney Dining Experience card holders. After a very lovely & expensive lunch at the Japanese Restaurant in Epcot, I presented my card expecting a 20% discount & was told sorry, they are a seperate entity & don't participate! I do have the restaurant list which I have read, but it is impossible to memorize dozens of restaurants. I have never before been to a sit down service at WDW parks or resorts that refused the DDE card. Just a hint to DDE participants to ask about participation at the restaurants.

 

[CPM]

There are a few that aren't included. I have shrunk my list down and keep it with me when I go to WDW.
I hate the fact the Bell-Vue room doesn't take it any more.

 

[Misti]

Thanks for the helpful reminder.

 

[meab]

I just read about the Disney Dining Experience, and I'm trying to find out more information on it.

Do you get 20% off at any of the listed restaurants? Is it really worth it, and are there other benefits?

It just seems like a lot of money to spend to get a discount... How many times do you have to use it for it to be worthwhile?

 

[CPM]

Well, if you spend about $350.00 or more a year at Disney restaurants then it's well worth it! We spend that in one trip. It's good at most resort restaurants and about 90% of Epcot restaurants. I would think most FL residents go to Disney more then twice a year so *I* think it's well worth it.

 

[Eljay]

Here's the scoop on the Disney Dining Experience. It costs $60 to join. You must be able to prove FL residency with an ID. You & up to 5 guests receive 20% off of your meals and alcohol at almost all sit down service restaurants in the parks, in the resorts & at Downtown Disney. You also are invited periodically to dining events held on the property at various locations. The price of these dinners is high, but they are incredible events, all inclusive of food, alcohol, entertainment & tips.

Here's how the math works out. You must spend $300 before you begin to officially enjoy the 20% discount. 20% of $300 is $60, which is the cost of the card.

I go to WDW very frequently & always have nice meals with big tabs, so this card is perfect for me. If you go infrequently or only go to counter service restaurants, it wouldn't be cost efficient for you.

Enjoy!