We made our ps for 7:00 p.m. by the time we got a table it was about 7:15 and 7:20 which was perfect timing. When you check in at the podium you can request an outside table. First time we had a great seat on the bottom tier but second time we were sat in the upper tier which has a restricted view. You can however leave your table and go to the viewing gallery, if your food is on the way they will take it back and keep it warm for you.
If it's your first time viewing illuminations I would definitely go to the viewing gallery if not on the bottom tier as it really is a restricted view on the top.
Annmarie