Newbie, haven't been to Disney in 30 years - need advice for meal plans

[Kims Aunt]

As the headline reads, I'm a newbie and haven't been to Disney in 30 years. Besides the changes to the park, the meal packages are a mystery to me and, I'm trying to decide whether or not to take them. We'll be going in May of 2008 and, it will be mainly adults, the only exception will be my niece who will be 2 years of age (turning 3 in July).

Any suggestions? Recommendations? Has anyone ever upgraded to a platinum package? If so, was it worth the extra cost?

PS - the cost isn't my concern, my concern is how is the quality of the food for the money? Are we better off going to Downtown Disney or are some restuarants in Downtown Disney included in some packages.

ANY INFORMATION IS APPRECIATED!

Thanks and have a magical day

 

[kaytieeldr]

First, the current Disney Dining Plan may change for 2008 - nothing official has been announced yet, so while the majority of advice right now might say "go for it" (I would, if you were going this year ), it's too soon to predict next year.

As for the Platinum or other plan - in my opinion, it probably includes numerous features that you'd pay for but not use, especially since the parks have changed so much since your last visit. You'd be spending a lot of good park-touring time using the Package features to get your money's worth (again, my opinion only).

 

[Krmrr]

There is no easy answer. The dining plan is a good deal, BUT, it's not for everyone.

My wife and I love going to different dining places. The DDP allows us to experiment without fear of ordering a high priced dish we do not like. As to food quality, I have found it to be, on the average, very high; but, I've had better. As with anywhere, some people love a place; others hate it. Some praise the wait staff, others condemn them. My wife and I have always been treated well, both on and off the dining plan. But, hey, I'm a lovable fat guy.

Many places in Downtown Disney are on the DDP, I'm eating there 3 times on my next trip. (Wolfgang get the calamari ready!!)

Look at the menus and decide if you want to try out the places. Go in with a open mind and an empty stomach and hopefully come out happy.

BTW, Cosmic Ray's in Adventure land and Sunshine Cafe in the Land, are two excellent CS places. Not only is the food fairly good, but there is a large variety of items to choose from so everyone can find something they like, or can try something new they might like.

 

[Kims Aunt]

First, the current Disney Dining Plan may change for 2008 - nothing official has been announced yet, so while the majority of advice right now might say "go for it" (I would, if you were going this year ), it's too soon to predict next year.

As for the Platinum or other plan - in my opinion, it probably includes numerous features that you'd pay for but not use, especially since the parks have changed so much since your last visit. You'd be spending a lot of good park-touring time using the Package features to get your money's worth (again, my opinion only).

There is no easy answer. The dining plan is a good deal, BUT, it's not for everyone.

My wife and I love going to different dining places. The DDP allows us to experiment without fear of ordering a high priced dish we do not like. As to food quality, I have found it to be, on the average, very high; but, I've had better. As with anywhere, some people love a place; others hate it. Some praise the wait staff, others condemn them. My wife and I have always been treated well, both on and off the dining plan. But, hey, I'm a lovable fat guy.

Many places in Downtown Disney are on the DDP, I'm eating there 3 times on my next trip. (Wolfgang get the calamari ready!!)

Look at the menus and decide if you want to try out the places. Go in with a open mind and an empty stomach and hopefully come out happy.

BTW, Cosmic Ray's in Adventure land and Sunshine Cafe in the Land, are two excellent CS places. Not only is the food fairly good, but there is a large variety of items to choose from so everyone can find something they like, or can try something new they might like.

Thanks for responding so quickly! Will wait eagerly for the 2008 prices and dining plan options and, will absolutely go with an open mind attitude if I decide to go with a meal plan...which more than likely I will take. I like having everything paid for upfront as much as possible - that's why I like cruising too.

Thanks again for taking time out of your day to repsond!