Of Allergies and Dining Plans - Ready made ADRs

[xipetotec]

Hello, I've got a series of ADRs made for our large group ( 16! ) next March.

I've just found out that one of our group has an allergy. Should I phone DDR and have them make a note on the ADR? or does it suffice to tell the person at podium or our server once we're there?

Also, we're still undecided on the dining plan. However, I did notice that when bookiing an ADR they always ask if we'll be coming on the dining plan. If we decide to GET the dining plan, should I phone back and tell them? Or does it not really matter?

 

[dawnball]

I've just found out that one of our group has an allergy. Should I phone DDR and have them make a note on the ADR? or does it suffice to tell the person at podium or our server once we're there?

That depends on the allergy and how much accommodation you'd like. I would call DDR and ask them to update all your ADRs. It only takes a few minutes. For common allergies or those that are easy to avoid, you can let them know at the podium/tell your server. I've done it both ways, and usually get better results if I have it noted on the ADR.

 

[hildarumpole]

It's best to call Disney Dining and have the allergy noted on the ADRs. It makes it easier for the chef to make any special accomodations ahead of time. You'll also be given phone numbers to contact the chef in case you want to talk to her/him personally about any concerns. When you are seated at your table, the chef will come out and talk to the person about safe menu options or if there isn't anything on the regular menu, suggest alternatives. When you call about the allergies, you can also let them know if you've decided to take the Dining Plan. I don't think it's a big deal if you don't get that on your ADRs. We were asked by the check-in person plus the waitperson at each restaurant, even though it was noted on our ADRs that we were not, so there's little chance that will slip by them.

 

[Woodcourt]

Hey! All three of my kids are allergic to eggs, nuts and shellfish. If you tell them ahead of time, they will make a note and when you check in they will make sure you see the chef. I am thinking you can still request it no problem.

Depending on the allergy its important to know that. Like, Disneys mac n cheese is off limits to my kids because it has eggs. We never would have known. The chefs have made egg free waffles and pancakes and special items for my kids and have walked me through buffet lines and said what they can and can not eat. They have always been REALLY wonderful. But, just be sure to let them know so they can take care of your party member,

 

[penguincrazie]

I think its important depending on the allergy. My DD is allergic to eggs and dairy so it is always noted, just makes things easier. My DH is allergic to berries, we do not note it because we think it could complicate things. Disney is very good about not cross contaminating for an allergic person but DH doesn't need to avoide something that has come in contact with a strawberry for example, his allergy just isn't that bad. My DD on the other hand, we just don't know.

 

[jmkrat]

Call them and have it noted on your ressies, and you still will need to tell them at the podium and tell your waitstaff. The only time you need to call the restuarant ahead is if you want something specific.

 

[PrincessTrisha]

It depends on the allergy -

My mom is allergic to crab, calamari and kiwi fruit. The first couple of trips I listed it on the reservation - at most places, it wasn't an issue (we just made sure that at places which served crab cakes or fried calamari, that my mother's food was not prepared in the same pans or oils).

But, where we had a problem was the breakfast at Ohana's - the waitress would not bring out any food until the chef came out, so we sat (and sat and sat) - the chef did not appear. I asked the server - does the fruit plate have kiwi on it? She said it didn't but she still couldn't bring out any food until the chef had come to the table. Finally I said, I didn't care, please bring out the food, we've waited long enough. She puts down the fruit and sure enough there is no kiwi. We never did end up talking to the chef (not that we needed to).

If there is crab or calamari on the menu (or kiwi), we mention it to the server / seater and talk to the chef to ensure no cross contamination otherwise we don't mention it.

For allergies which severely restrict your diet or where you will require special meals prepared (i.e. egg, dairy, gluten or other commonly used food items) it should be noted on your ADR so that the chef has the ability to prepare an acceptable alternative in advance.

 

[xipetotec]

Thanks everyone for the replies.

Just as a note, the allergy in question is to Zuccini. Which is not always obvious. The problem is this is often used as "filler" or a replacement for cucumber. Which is why it's a concern. I will call and make sure it's listed on all ADRs

Thanks!

 

[javaj]

Email Theresa Joiner (theresa.joiner@disney.com) about the allergy. Include your information (reservation #, phone number, etc) and she'll take care of getting the allergy added to all your reservations. She can also get you other allergy-related information