Disneyland Resort Dining Reservations

Disneyland Resort Restaurant Reservations Overview

Disneyland dining reservations aren't exactly reservations. When you call Disney Dining at 714-781-3463, your name and essential information are taken as if you were making a reservation. The Disney representative then tells you that you have a dining reservation for the restaurant on the date and time you requested, usually explaining that means you will be seated ahead of walk-ins; that is, those guests without dining reservations. In case you can't figure out how to place a voice call with your fancy smartphone, you can also book reservations online. A credit card guarantee is required for all reservations; a $10 per person fee will be charged if you don't show up.

Travelers who have experienced Walt Disney World's Advanced Dining Reservations system will be relieved to discover that Disneyland's dining reservation scheme is far simpler to navigate. Unlike in Orlando, there is no need to hit the phones at 7 a.m. on the 180th day before your Anaheim vacation; except on the busiest days, most restaurants in the parks and hotels offer same-day availability.

If you want to patronize any of the Disneyland Resort full-service restaurants, especially buffets or character-dining eateries, you should consider dining reservations (call 714-781-3463 or go online up to 60 days in advance).

If you fail to make dining reservations before you leave home, or if you want to make your dining decisions spontaneously, your chances of getting a table at the restaurant of your choice are good. Blue Bayou at Disneyland Park, Napa Rose at the Grand Californian Hotel, and the various character-meal venues are the most likely to sell out. If, however, you visit Disneyland during a very busy time of year, it's to your advantage to make dining reservations.

Disney collects a credit card number with every dining reservation. If you poop out in the theme park and are a no-show for your meal, you will be charged $10 per person. Your reservation will be voided 15 minutes after the scheduled time, and the penalty will apply unless you call at least 24 hours before your seating. This same cancellation policy also applies to makeover appointments at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, as well as cabanas at the hotel pools. If you’ve lined up many seatings, it’s a good idea to phone Disney a few days before you arrive to make sure that everything is in order. If you have a seating for a theme park restaurant at a time before park opening, as is sometimes the case for a character breakfast, simply proceed to the turnstiles and inform a cast member, who will admit you to the park.