Help planning DDP meals for first-timers

[Taylor'sMom]

I'm planning a trip for my freind and her family. She is NOT a planner and has given me free reign to plan their entire trip. (I'm a planner, so I enjoy it).

They are doing 7 nights with DDP
5 park days (1 at each park (non-hoppers) and then a 5th "fave park" day I won't plan)

Travelling last full week of August (she's a teacher)
2 adults, 4 kids: boys and girls, ages 5 to 11

I booked them with a family suite so they have a kitchen and plan to make quick breakfasts most days.

What I am thinking thus far:

arrival evening: Downtown Disney, out of pocket meal
MK day: Cindy's Royal Table (2 TS we know) lunch if I can get it, CS other meal
Epcot day: Coral Reef TS(thought the kids would like it and they don't really have "Internationsl" tastes, CS other meal
HS day: Sci-Fi TS, CS other meal
AK day: character breakfast, CS other meal
Fave park day: 2 CS meals
Rest/pool day: CS lunch (food court at resort probablly, unless they add a water park pass), TS dinner WHERE? SUGGESTIONS?
Departure day: Chef Mickey or O'Hana breakfast TS
(I figured by then they'd be comfortable with the transportation to get there)

Thoughts or suggestions? I want to plan her a nice (easy) trip and not leave out something great for a newbie...

 

[deerhart]

I would do a resort dinner on the "off" day. I'm assuming they are staying at ASMu.

What about Whispering Canyon or you could do O'Hana dinner that night.

Are they big breakfast eaters? I ask that because you have a number of breakfasts instead of dinners and they have a suite so breakfast is an easy thing for them (I can understand if your doing breakfast for the characters though)

Also what is their departure time? Depending on when they are leaving, they may not have time for a sit down meal that day. We leave later in the evening thus we have time for breakfast and even lunch, but have to eat dinner at the airport.

 

[Taylor'sMom]

I would do a resort dinner on the "off" day. I'm assuming they are staying at ASMu.

What about Whispering Canyon or you could do O'Hana dinner that night.

Are they big breakfast eaters? I ask that because you have a number of breakfasts instead of dinners and they have a suite so breakfast is an easy thing for them (I can understand if your doing breakfast for the characters though)

Also what is their departure time? Depending on when they are leaving, they may not have time for a sit down meal that day. We leave later in the evening thus we have time for breakfast and even lunch, but have to eat dinner at the airport.

THANKS!

Actually, the only breakfst I was planning was Donald's whatever-they're- calling-it-now at AK. The other park days I thought I'd try to get lunch as a TS to get them out of the August heat... and they could take afternoon pool breaks afterwards if they wanted.

As for departure day and arrival day...

I didn't wnat to do a resort meal as their first beause I think all the transportation changes to get there might be overwhelming on their arrival. By the end though, I figured they'd feel comfortable with getting to the Poly or CR. No plane tickets booked yet, so that'll all depend anyway. I did think about a resort dinner on their off day... I'm going to wait to see what their flight times allow on departure day and decide. I think it'd be nice to send them off in style.

 

[<3 the Mouse]

my advice...your picks so far do not get you ANY bang for your buck on DDP (in fact with this plan it might even break even with oop!) Cindy's...NOOO it is mediocre at best, and a giant waste of 2 dining credits....on that note 1900 park fare is a quick monorail ride from MK is much nicer, has better food, and you get to see more characters, and have more time with them...it is also only 1 dining credit. Akershus's food is also better than cindy's and features a boatload of princesses, and is only 1 dining credit. Point #2 the food at Sci-Fi was the 2nd worst I have ever had on disney property (1st being hollywood and vine), the theming is cool, but videos are repetative and sevice sucks...so plan on watching the movies at least 2X. The only good food at MGM (that is not signature) is Mama Melrose (though it is a little run of the mill), and 50's prime time cafe which has theming as fun as sci-fi, and is super fun. Also has homecooked americana food and milkshakes, but is better than dennys quality unlike sci-fi. Next point 2 character BREAKFASTS?!? you get much more bang for your buck when using TS credits for lunch or dinner...charcter meals are ok, but 3 is uneccessary...the food at Tusker house is awesome for lunch and dinner...dun waste the credit on BREAKFAST...oh and for your resort dinner.....Boma, Sanaa, WCC, The Wave, or Kouzzina by Cat Cora are all quite good!

 

[TxRabbit]

I think your plan looks very nice. Especially for a first timer, it's a great plan to think of more lunches, that way they can get up and get going however they will, go to the park of the day, have a nice break to look forward to, and then have a "free" afternoon/evening.

The breakfast in the morning could be a bit rough. Even if they were familiar with WDW transportation, having to get packed and deal with luggage, (not sure how that is working with the ME and baggage fees these days), but it just seems like it could actually be something of a stressful situation on a traveling morning, though I know that you mean well by planning it, it will be good to know what the actual departure time is before having that plan in place.

It's on the rest day that I would recommend doing the resort meal, if you were wanting to plan one. They would have plenty of time to get to the resort on such a day. And depending on the resort, there would be time to explore another place around WDW, which may or may not be appealing honestly with 4 kids in tow. How much do the kids really want to explore like that?

It might be better to plan that TS back to the downtown area. They may not have the energy to appreciate DTD on arrival, especially with kids, and all the shopping and other things there can be great fun. I don't know what the current state of TSs is DTD, but my family ended up doing an inpromptu sit down at Wolf Gang Puck at about 3:30 PM, and it was late August. The place was virtually empty, we sat in the back of the restaurant right by the floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the water. It was a VERY nice meal, if only because it was quiet and the food was very good. My DS loved it. It became a mad house as the dinner crowd came in, and I would not have enjoyed eating there as much then, but if you can plan this off time, they would have a nice meal there.

 

[Taylor'sMom]

my advice...your picks so far do not get you ANY bang for your buck on DDP (in fact with this plan it might even break even with oop!) Cindy's...NOOO it is mediocre at best, and a giant waste of 2 dining credits....on that note 1900 park fare is a quick monorail ride from MK is much nicer, has better food, and you get to see more characters, and have more time with them...it is also only 1 dining credit. Akershus's food is also better than cindy's and features a boatload of princesses, and is only 1 dining credit. Point #2 the food at Sci-Fi was the 2nd worst I have ever had on disney property (1st being hollywood and vine), the theming is cool, but videos are repetative and sevice sucks...so plan on watching the movies at least 2X. The only good food at MGM (that is not signature) is Mama Melrose (though it is a little run of the mill), and 50's prime time cafe which has theming as fun as sci-fi, and is super fun. Also has homecooked americana food and milkshakes, but is better than dennys quality unlike sci-fi. Next point 2 character BREAKFASTS?!? you get much more bang for your buck when using TS credits for lunch or dinner...charcter meals are ok, but 3 is uneccessary...the food at Tusker house is awesome for lunch and dinner...dun waste the credit on BREAKFAST...oh and for your resort dinner.....Boma, Sanaa, WCC, The Wave, or Kouzzina by Cat Cora are all quite good!

thanks, I really do appreciate your feedback.

As far as Cindy’s, we have eaten there and found the “experience” of eating in the castle to be worthwhile. It’s a once in a lifetime thing for little girls and I think they’d like it. I’m also not sure the food at Akershus would appeal to them. Taking the monorail to 1900 Park faire was my back-up for the MK day if I can’t get a Cindy’s reservation. But maybe others will suggest I just do that anyway???

I know Sci-Fi is a much-debated restaurant, but it seems like the RECENT reviews have improved. Still debating a HS restaurant I guess.

Tusker House I think they’d like for the character interaction. It means no waiting in lines to see some characters in August heat.

They’re not really the fine-dining type of family… and they’re doing the DDP just to have things pre-paid (except tips), not so much for “savings”

 

[Taylor'sMom]

I think your plan looks very nice. Especially for a first timer, it's a great plan to think of more lunches, that way they can get up and get going however they will, go to the park of the day, have a nice break to look forward to, and then have a "free" afternoon/evening.

The breakfast in the morning could be a bit rough. Even if they were familiar with WDW transportation, having to get packed and deal with luggage, (not sure how that is working with the ME and baggage fees these days), but it just seems like it could actually be something of a stressful situation on a traveling morning, though I know that you mean well by planning it, it will be good to know what the actual departure time is before having that plan in place.

It's on the rest day that I would recommend doing the resort meal, if you were wanting to plan one. They would have plenty of time to get to the resort on such a day. And depending on the resort, there would be time to explore another place around WDW, which may or may not be appealing honestly with 4 kids in tow. How much do the kids really want to explore like that?

It might be better to plan that TS back to the downtown area. They may not have the energy to appreciate DTD on arrival, especially with kids, and all the shopping and other things there can be great fun. I don't know what the current state of TSs is DTD, but my family ended up doing an inpromptu sit down at Wolf Gang Puck at about 3:30 PM, and it was late August. The place was virtually empty, we sat in the back of the restaurant right by the floor to ceiling glass windows overlooking the water. It was a VERY nice meal, if only because it was quiet and the food was very good. My DS loved it. It became a mad house as the dinner crowd came in, and I would not have enjoyed eating there as much then, but if you can plan this off time, they would have a nice meal there.

Thanks for the feedback!

I def. think I will look at a resort TS on their rest/pool day. We loved T-Rex and I think their kids would too. I know it's not on the DDP, but maybe that could be an out-of-pocket meal for them and I could move around some departure/arrival day meals.

Planet Hollywood is on the DDP, right? Any thoughst on that for a DTD TS meal???

 

[TxRabbit]

Thanks for the feedback!

I def. think I will look at a resort TS on their rest/pool day. We loved T-Rex and I think their kids would too. I know it's not on the DDP, but maybe that could be an out-of-pocket meal for them and I could move around some departure/arrival day meals.

Planet Hollywood is on the DDP, right? Any thoughst on that for a DTD TS meal???

I went to a Planet Hollywood somewhere and that was enough for me. Didn't care for the loudness, the food, the prices. The one thing that I would keep in mind when you are planning your meals for the family is just to remember how stimulating the whole WDW can be. By the time meals roll around, kids can get tired and cranky and hungry. It doesn't necessarily have to be another point of entertainment. A nice quiet meal could be just the ticket for a family away from home with 4 kids.

That said. The only thing about SciFi that I would wonder about is the movies. My DS didn't like them at all. Also keep in mind the seating, be sure that the kids are pretty self sufficient to care for themselves, or the whole meal could be more of a pain than it is worth with the way that the seating is. I'm a mom, can you tell?

Unlike the PP, I think that the castle is worth it. It's unique. We had great food there and great character play. It was an experience. It was a served character meal (non-buffet) and definitely a must do when you have kids. If only once.

Travel can be rough business. I would rather have you recommend that they use the DDP for Wolf Gang Puck CS on their arrival day than OOP. Have them OOP later, if they need to. Many end up with extra credits just because. WGPE is nice because it has a bit of service involved. No ressie to make. No worries about timing and rushing. Order, get your own drinks, find a place to sit and have your meal brought to you. Priceless at the end of a travel day, especially with 4 kids. The food is really good, too, and is an excellent use of CS credits.

Also, being in DTD will be like getting their feet wet in the whole WDW atmosphere.

 

[<3 the Mouse]

thanks, I really do appreciate your feedback.

As far as Cindy’s, we have eaten there and found the “experience” of eating in the castle to be worthwhile. It’s a once in a lifetime thing for little girls and I think they’d like it. I’m also not sure the food at Akershus would appeal to them. Taking the monorail to 1900 Park faire was my back-up for the MK day if I can’t get a Cindy’s reservation. But maybe others will suggest I just do that anyway???

I know Sci-Fi is a much-debated restaurant, but it seems like the RECENT reviews have improved. Still debating a HS restaurant I guess.

Tusker House I think they’d like for the character interaction. It means no waiting in lines to see some characters in August heat.

They’re not really the fine-dining type of family… and they’re doing the DDP just to have things pre-paid (except tips), not so much for “savings”

then I suppose it's a good plan, though I do suggest 1900 park fare as first choice!!!! Then they can also experience another TS meal which would be super nice!!! =D

 

[TxRabbit]

I went to a Planet Hollywood somewhere and that was enough for me. Didn't care for the loudness, the food, the prices. The one thing that I would keep in mind when you are planning your meals for the family is just to remember how stimulating the whole WDW can be. By the time meals roll around, kids can get tired and cranky and hungry. It doesn't necessarily have to be another point of entertainment. A nice quiet meal could be just the ticket for a family away from home with 4 kids.

That said. The only thing about SciFi that I would wonder about is the movies. My DS didn't like them at all. Also keep in mind the seating, be sure that the kids are pretty self sufficient to care for themselves, or the whole meal could be more of a pain than it is worth with the way that the seating is. I'm a mom, can you tell?

Unlike the PP, I think that the castle is worth it. It's unique. We had great food there and great character play. It was an experience. It was a served character meal (non-buffet) and definitely a must do when you have kids. If only once.

Travel can be rough business. I would rather have you recommend that they use the DDP for Wolf Gang Puck CS on their arrival day than OOP. Have them OOP later, if they need to. Many end up with extra credits just because. WGPE is nice because it has a bit of service involved. No ressie to make. No worries about timing and rushing. Order, get your own drinks, find a place to sit and have your meal brought to you. Priceless at the end of a travel day, especially with 4 kids. The food is really good, too, and is an excellent use of CS credits.

Also, being in DTD will be like getting their feet wet in the whole WDW atmosphere.

And I don't recall PH being on the DDP. That's why they give you that coupon as part of a vacation package...I think.

 

[Taylor'sMom]

I went to a Planet Hollywood somewhere and that was enough for me. Didn't care for the loudness, the food, the prices. The one thing that I would keep in mind when you are planning your meals for the family is just to remember how stimulating the whole WDW can be. By the time meals roll around, kids can get tired and cranky and hungry. It doesn't necessarily have to be another point of entertainment. A nice quiet meal could be just the ticket for a family away from home with 4 kids.

That said. The only thing about SciFi that I would wonder about is the movies. My DS didn't like them at all. Also keep in mind the seating, be sure that the kids are pretty self sufficient to care for themselves, or the whole meal could be more of a pain than it is worth with the way that the seating is. I'm a mom, can you tell?

Unlike the PP, I think that the castle is worth it. It's unique. We had great food there and great character play. It was an experience. It was a served character meal (non-buffet) and definitely a must do when you have kids. If only once.

Travel can be rough business. I would rather have you recommend that they use the DDP for Wolf Gang Puck CS on their arrival day than OOP. Have them OOP later, if they need to. Many end up with extra credits just because. WGPE is nice because it has a bit of service involved. No ressie to make. No worries about timing and rushing. Order, get your own drinks, find a place to sit and have your meal brought to you. Priceless at the end of a travel day, especially with 4 kids. The food is really good, too, and is an excellent use of CS credits.

Also, being in DTD will be like getting their feet wet in the whole WDW atmosphere.

Good point about low-key (anti-entertainment) meals being a welcome breaf form the over-stimulations... I have to remember that!
And I'm so glad you mentioned WGPE! I forgot about the way they do a pseudo-table service there. I def. thought DTD would be a good spot for their arrival night, so maybe that'll be the plan. Since it's CS i can just suggest it, but that'll be theoir choice since there are noe reservations involved.

Thanks very much!!

 

[<3 the Mouse]

I agree w/ PP about PH...Awful experience for hubby and I, loud, tacky decor, poor service, too touristy (even for WDW...we are Floridians! LOL!), and waaaaay overpriced food....$20 apps. that were equal in quality to a fridays O.O it was nuts!! And no not on DDP! Best TS in DTD IMO is Raglan Road!

 

[<3 the Mouse]

But I am a mick, so I would like it!!!

 

[Taylor'sMom]

Sounds like PH is definately OUT... glad I mentioned it.

thanks guys!

(FYI for others, according to the 2010 DDP brochure, Planet Hollywood IS a TS restaurant though)

 

[<3 the Mouse]

OH wow guess it's new for 2010...btw WGPE is an awesome CS!!

 

[mistee]

my first night i like to get adr at either 1900 pf or chef mickeys then after dinner go to the beach to see the electric water parade and MK fireworks..

it isn't stressfull and a nice way to start the vaca,,i love the tacky water parade!!

 

[Tara922c]

I would be careful on planning a breakfast on your departure day unless you have plenty of time to make it back to ME to get to the airport. Last year we had 11:20 ADRs at Chef Mickey's, and didn't get seated until 12. No biggie, but we didn't have a plane to catch. My advice is to plan ohanas or Chef Mickey's on your off day, and just grab something quick on your departure day. Another suggestion, if you can't get into CRT, you could do 1900 park fare and still see Cinderella, and only use one TS. No matter what you do, you will get fed, and you will have a great time.

 

[TinkerbellinLouisian]

CRT is a TS TRADITION for our family... we've done it every visit... (DS 10 times...between age 3-17...and HE loves it...)

But - I recommend..if they are using DDP...to get the CRT for Dinner...

If you are going to use 2 TS credits...why not get a big meal? I LOVE the Prime Rib...the desserts are awesome...

I think EVERYONE should eat in the CASTLE at least once in their lives...and the FIRST visit is the IDEAL time to do so....

Hugs,
Mary

 

[Taylor'sMom]

CRT is a TS TRADITION for our family... we've done it every visit... (DS 10 times...between age 3-17...and HE loves it...)

But - I recommend..if they are using DDP...to get the CRT for Dinner...

If you are going to use 2 TS credits...why not get a big meal? I LOVE the Prime Rib...the desserts are awesome...

I think EVERYONE should eat in the CASTLE at least once in their lives...and the FIRST visit is the IDEAL time to do so....

Hugs,
Mary

glad to hear you all love crt so much! you don't get the princesses at dinner though, do you? its just fairy godmother right?

 

[TinkerbellinLouisian]

glad to hear you all love crt so much! you don't get the princesses at dinner though, do you? its just fairy godmother right?

By the time your friends go...it should be "Princesses 24/7" LOL...

The last times we've been ...you get a "meet and greet" with Cinderella, get pics taken with her... you go upstairs to your table and are seated....then a show with Fairy Godmother, with Perla and Suzy (mice). They sing Happy bday for folks in the crowd, interact... it was a fun show....I will miss it!

OH - and we (all) got our choice of a Magic Wand or a Sword. (Yes - I still have my Magic Wand!)

Whatever the show is when your friends go...It will be worth it...

Everyone needs to eat in the Castle at least once.

"There should be a law"..... LOL!

Hugs
Mary