When you can't get ADR's...

[allgoodgifts]

I'm still searching to see if I can score Ohana reservations for my trip 11/24 - 12/1, but I figure it's a long shot.

My question is this: we'd be looking for the earliest possible dinner reservations anyway, so what would likely happen if we showed up, say, 20-30 minutes before they open for dinner and tried to get a table as walk-ups? Would there be a big line? Or will they basically say there are no places available for those without ADRs?

I'd like to do an Ohana dinner, but not enough to wait an hour or more, so your advice is appreciated!

 

[AquaDame]

Honestly, it could go either way and the only way to know is to show up and try. It depends on how overbooked they are, how many people are already there waiting, the cast member, the fire code, etc etc!

 

[DISdreamin']

Honestly, it could go either way and the only way to know is to show up and try. It depends on how overbooked they are, how many people are already there waiting, the cast member, the fire code, etc etc!

...the phase of the moon, etc.

Seriously, if it were me, I'd actually go right around or slightly after opening and ask but expect to wait a bit. That way they can try and ascertain if they have some no-shows. Personally, if it were me I'd have a backup plan (QS idea, whatever) just in case, but given the reports of lots of empty tables at hard-to-book places, I'd be hoping for good luck and pixie dust!

 

[firstcruise]

Ohana is my favorite place to eat and is a must on every trip. Been pretty fortunate to get an ADR though it's usually really late at night just before they close.

The server told us last time to show up just before they open and see what was available. She said that was our best shot at getting in without an ADR, but plan on waiting. They have the bar there, so it's a pretty easy wait considering what's for dinner.

When they raised the price for dinner it got a little easier to find a spot, but now it's back to hit or miss. We have an ADR for our January Panama canal cruise and I have one for my trip at the end of this month. Not a fan of the reservation system though, it's terrible!

 

[kp22090]

If it's somewhere that you really want to eat at, I would say take the chance and walk-up. They will always take your name down and chances are there are ALWAYS no-shows, thus you'll be called sooner. People over book more and more and fail to cancel their unwanted reservations, or, if they have the decency, cancel at the last minute.

 

[purple figment]

Because your vacation dates include Thanksgiving I would keep trying on line as many times a day as you can. Also you'll have to be flexible about the date and time.

If nothing comes up you can check with the concierge at your resort after you arrive.

And finally, you can check at the restaurant when it first opens.

Good luck.

 

[crabbygal902]

The PPs are right...it can't hurt to show up at opening and try for a table but it really depends on how the wind blows as to whether or not a walk-up is possible.

It might be a good idea to plan a back-up restaurant while you are still trying for that 'Ohana ADR online.

How about Kona? If you end up getting an 'Ohana ADR, you can always cancel Kona.

Every single time (no exaggeration) that I have booked a 'back-up' restaurant, it has ended up being a favorite. Is it a combination of sheer luck and low expectations? Probably. But we have had some great experiences that way: Mama Melrose's and 'Ohana breakfast (I was NOT excited about that at all beforehand!) are the two most memorable.

I know that doesn't make you feel any better. It really stinks when you have your heart set on something and it doesn't come through.

Sending you some pixie dust

 

[allgoodgifts]

Thanks, everyone! We have plenty of other options... counter service, or just going back to the vacation home (we're staying offsite). I'm still diligently stalking the reservation site and crossing my fingers. I'll check with the rest of the group (my extended family) about how they feel about showing up and trying for a walk-up spot. I think they'd love to see the Polynesian in any case. Is there counter service in the Poly? We could show up, check on the wait, and decide to do counter service instead if the kids are losing patience.

 

[caravarela]

We really liked Captain Cook's (Poly CS) last trip.

Good luck!!