Handling ADRs if in-laws join us?

[LegoMom3]

We have the MYW Free Dining package booked for our trip in September. All my ADRs have been booked. There is now a possibility that my in-laws will come along for part of our trip - they won't be doing the package and won't be touring with us every minute of every day, but I know we've got one dinner in particular that we would all love to have them join us at.

So, if they were to call and try to make their own ADR for around the same time as ours (I mean within 10 minutes or so, if they can get it), is there any chance we might all be able to sit near each other if we arrive together and explain to the hostess? I'd even be willing to wait a bit longer if needed to get a seat. It's at the Biergarten which has large tables anyway, so I'm really hoping. I know there's no guarantee and maybe it won't fly at all, but I'm wondering if anyone else had "added" people to their dinner plans and were they able to sit together/close or not?

 

[Aimeedyan]

You have a few options. One, you could call and see if you can get a new reservation that includes 2 more. If you can, then you can cancel your existing reservation. Even if they decide not to join you on a few, it's easier to show up with a couple less than a couple more. Another option is for them to try and make their own ADR, like you mentioned, and ask to be seated near each other. More than likely they won't be able to seat you together except for someplace like Biegarten because of how they map out tables. Another option is to wait and see - that is, just show up at those few meals with 2 extra and ask if they can accomodate. This might work with some restaurants but you may be told no and they don't have a reservation anywhere.

My advice would be to first see if you can get a new reservation including them. If not that, see if you can get a reservation for 2 at a similar time and approach the hostess desk about your dilemma when you arrive =)