WOC dining packages

[Brna]

Hi guys! So this June I am going to Disneyland with my family and my best friend as a combined birthday trip for us. I wanted to get her something Disneyland related as a birthday gift and I think I have decided on reservations for a World of Color dining package. It is both our 2nd time at the park but I went last year and her last time was when she was around 10. We are both turning 17 and are excited to be back. I do have a couple of questions I could use help with concerning the WoC packages.
First, What restaurant would you recommend and why? I was looking at Ariel's Grotto but would like to hear others opinions on the matter. Neither of us are very picky with food if that makes a difference.
Secondly, what timeslot would you recommend? Should I shoot for an earlier time slot or one closer to the show?
Lastly, Since this will be her birthday gift from me I want a cute way to tell her about it. Do you know if disneyland offers any ways to present reservations? Maybe a card of some sort? If not, do you guys have any DIY ideas for a cute way to gift her the reservation?
Thanks so much! Any other tips for WOC dining or the parks in general would be much appreciated as we are both pretty unfamiliar with it all.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

First: look at the menus on allears.net to see which dining package has the most appealing menu for you. Then go with that dining package. I've done all three restaurants and enjoyed them all for different reasons. CCR wins for food, Ariel's wins if there are tri tip fans or big eaters in the group, and WCT wins if there are kids in the group (we reserve a time so that we can watch the Pixar Play Parade from the patio).
Second: I prefer to book an earlier time so that we don't have to rush our meal and still can have plenty of time afterward for lining up for a good viewing spot. Your reservation works more like a FP -- you might not get seated right away, so be prepared to add on some time to give yourself a margin of error in your schedule. If you choose WCT and want to view the parade, check the parade time for your chosen day and try to book at least 20 - 30 minutes beforehand.
Third: Does your friend collect any Disney items or have a favorite character? You could get her a small plush toy or a collectible with a card detailing her gift. Or you could buy her a WOC t-shirt or mug and present that with a card with the date and time of your dinner. Don't forget to get your friend a birthday button!
Have a great time!