disney cruise dining package

How Rotational Dining Works on Disney Cruise Line: A Family’s Guide

Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining system provides a unique culinary adventure at sea. This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about how rotational dining works on Disney Cruise Line across their fleet. I’ll share an overview of the participating restaurants, insider advice from my family, the pros and cons we’ve experienced, booking tips, and our final verdict on if rotational dining is worth it. From understanding the logistics to fully appreciating the creative cuisine and themes, this article details everything you need to know about rotational dining on Disney cruises.

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Understanding Rotational Dining on Disney Cruises

Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining is an innovative way for passengers to cycle through all three main onboard restaurants , experiencing a unique theme and menu each night. This innovative approach to dinner service guarantees a diverse range of culinary experiences throughout your journey, enriching each evening with a new dining adventure.

The process is straightforward. When you book your cruise, you’re offered a choice of two dining times . Based on your preference, a rotation schedule is prepared that outlines where you’ll dine each night of your cruise.

Every evening becomes a fresh adventure , as you’re welcomed into a different dining setting. You might find yourself in a classic princess-themed setting one night, then surrounded by Marvel’s superhero ambiance the next. And it’s not just about the changing scenery. The menus shift as well , offering a global range of cuisines that cater to all tastes.

But here’s what sets it apart: the personalized service . The same team that takes care of you on the first day will accompany you to each restaurant every single night. This allows for a consistent and personalized dining experience, despite the changing dining venues.

As discussed in our Guide to Food on Disney Cruise Line , we believe that Disney’s rotational dining is a fantastic blend of Disney magic and culinary exploration. It’s a standout feature, especially for first-time Disney cruisers , and contributes significantly to the unique Disney Cruise Line experience.

The Cost of Rotational Dining

The good news is rotational dining is included in your Disney Cruise Line fare , meaning there are no extra charges to enjoy these wonderful dining experiences. However, additional charges apply for specialty beverages, including certain non-alcoholic beverages, wine, and cocktails.

Time for Rotational Dining

Disney Cruise Line typically offers two dining times to choose from: the Main Seating around 5:45 PM or the Second Seating at 8:15 PM . You can request your preferred dining time when booking your cruise, but be aware it’s subject to availability.

Note: These are approximate times; on some itineraries, each seating might be a little earlier or later.

How to Make Rotational Dining Reservations

Are you wondering how to secure your reservations for Disney’s rotational dining? The good news is that selecting Main Seating or Second Seating for your dining rotation (chosen when you make your reservation) serves as a sort of standing reservation for dinner each night; you don’t need to make a separate dinner reservation for each night of the cruise.

If you want to change your dining time, you can work with your travel agent, contact Disney itself, use the Disney Cruise website, or use the Disney Cruise Line Navigator App . The app lets you find all the details you need, such as your dining location, times, and table number. It also gives you the option to change your dining time if you like.

If your first choice for seating time isn’t available, you still have options. Just join the waitlist through the My Reservations feature in the app. Please keep in mind that all requests are subject to availability.

For Questions or Booking Inquiries, Contact The Vacationeer

Looking for expert assistance with your Disney Cruise Line booking? Reach out to The Vacationeer ! As a Diamond-Level Earmarked Disney Vacation Planner Agency, they offer personalized service and invaluable advice to make your Disney Cruise experience smooth and stress-free. They are ready to answer your questions about rotational dining, book your shore excursions and dining reservations, and provide the latest information on Disney Cruise Line destinations.

The Vacationeer values the uniqueness of every vacation and, thus, assigns a dedicated Disney travel planner to handle all aspects of your trip. You’ll enjoy the consistency of speaking with the same knowledgeable individual each time you call. And the best part? Their services are entirely free !

Moreover, booking through The Vacationeer comes with a generous Disney onboard credit . This bonus allows you to enjoy up to $1000 in free spending power on your cruise simply by booking with a top-tier Disney travel agency like The Vacationeer .

Don’t wait to start planning your dream Disney Cruise adventure. Contact The Vacationeer right now for a no-obligation, instant price quote . Their team of Disney fanatics will assist you every step of the way in planning and booking your Disney Cruise Line vacation.

Is Rotational Dining Available for Breakfast and Lunch?

No, the rotational dining experience on Disney Cruise Line is exclusive to dinner . However, there are numerous delightful options available for breakfast and lunch on the ship.

Image © Disney

For your breakfast and lunch meals, you have several choices:

• Quick-Service Dining : Complimentary food is available from casual dining spots such as Flo’s V8 Café and Duck-In Diner.
• Buffet Dining : Cabanas and other buffet-style dining venues offer meals that are included in your cruise package.
• Character Breakfasts : These special meals are free, though you need to obtain tickets in advance. See our Character Dining on Disney Cruises article for more information.
• Room Service : Most items on the room service menu come without extra charges, but remember that tips are not included.
• Snacks : Various locations on the ship offer free snacks throughout the day.

Contact The Vacationeer to learn more about these options.

Accommodating Dietary Needs at Rotational Restaurants

Disney Cruise Line truly shines when it comes to accommodating various dietary needs. They offer a range of options that cater to different dietary requirements, including gluten-free, vegetarian, no-sugar-added, dairy-free, and lighter-note offerings. You should specify your special dietary needs while booking your cruise .

My wife, Jaimie, follows a predominantly vegan diet, and she was pleased with the range of choices available at every meal. Even though she indicates her dietary preferences during the booking process, she also makes a point to notify the onboard staff about her diet. This helps ensure her dining experience is seamless and enjoyable. Disney Cruise Line staff have always done their best to accommodate our dietary requirements, and we thank them for it!

Rotational Restaurants Onboard Disney Cruise Line

There are five Disney cruise ships in its fleet. Here is a list of the rotating restaurants on each ship.

Disney Magic

Rapunzel’s Royal Table | Image © Disney

Disney Magic , the first in Disney’s fleet, set sail in 1998. Onboard, you’ll find three distinct rotational restaurants:

• Animator’s Palate : A dining adventure where your surroundings transform from black and white into full color. With a menu offering American classics, there’s something for everyone. For us, the Black Truffle Pasta Purseittes is a must-try starter.
• Lumiere’s (Inspired by Beauty and the Beast) : This rotational dining spot offers an elegant dining room that mirrors the opulence of Belle and the Beast’s ballroom and serves French-inspired cuisine like the delectable bouillabaisse and snail-packed escargot. The Grand Marnier soufflé is our family’s favorite dessert here, a perfect finale to any meal.
• Rapunzel’s Royal Table (Inspired by Tangled) : Our kids love the lively atmosphere in this restaurant, where guests are treated to German fare and the joy of dancing with Disney princesses. I recommend the pan-seared sea bass, and my wife suggests the potato crepes filled with spinach, zucchini, eggplant, and ricotta.

Disney Wonder

Tiana’s Place | Image © Disney

Disney Wonder  boasts three themed restaurants:

• Animator’s Palate : Just like on Disney Magic, this restaurant also offers an animated show during dinner, making for a delightful dining experience.
• Tiana’s Place (Inspired by Princess and the Frog) : Here, the vibrant spirit of New Orleans comes alive with live jazz and Southern Cajun and Creole delicacies like jambalaya. Be sure to try the fried catfish; it’s one of my absolute favorites!
• Triton’s (Inspired by The Little Mermaid ): Triton’s offers four-course French-inspired suppers in an enchanting underwater setting. The three-cheese lobster macaroni was a big hit with my family!

Disney Dream & Disney Fantasy

Enchanted Garden | Image © Disney

The sister ships, Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy , feature three beautifully themed rotational restaurants:

• Animator’s Palate : The playful animation show during dinner makes the dining experience here a unique one. Beyond the entertainment, the food is equally impressive, with options to suit all palates.
• Enchanted Garden : Here, you’ll be transported on a journey from day to night – right at your dinner table. The ambient light and nature-inspired setting provide a truly enchanting dining experience. My wife Jaimie, who prefers plant-based dishes, enjoyed their Spinach and Raspberry Salad, and I enjoyed their Marjoram-Scented Roasted Chicken.
• Royal Court (Disney Fantasy only ): This princess-themed dining location serves exquisite French cuisine. With décor paying homage to classic Disney princess films, the grand ballroom ambiance truly sets a royal stage for a delightful meal. I can’t wait to bring my young daughter to this one!
• Royal Palace (Disney Dream only) : Drawing inspiration from timeless Disney classics like Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty, this dining place transports guests into a majestic grand ballroom. The restaurant offers a selection of elegant French and Continental dishes, promising a royal feast for every diner.

Disney Wish

Arendelle – a Frozen Dining Adventure

There are three unique themed rotational dining restaurants on the Disney Wish cruise ship , Disney’s newest member of its fleet:

• 1923 (Inspired by the Golden Age of Disney) : This restaurant is named after the founding year of The Walt Disney Company and presents a delightful fusion of Vintage Hollywood and Californian cuisine. The sophisticated setting transports you back to the Golden Age of Disney. I highly recommend the 1923 Peppered Filet Mignon.
• Worlds of Marvel : Disney Wish’s rotational dining restaurant Worlds of Marvel is the world’s first Marvel cinematic dining adventure. The place is buzzing with high-tech superhero action. The innovative menu is designed to be enjoyed by both adults and kids, so it’s a hit with the whole family. Our favorite dish here is the Steamed Bao Buns. It’s a must-try!
• Arendelle – A Frozen Dining Adventure : Taking inspiration from the much-loved movie Frozen, this restaurant serves traditional Nordic fare. The Scandinavian setting is immersive, complete with live entertainment making it a magical experience. I especially love the traditional Arendelle Kjottkake (meatballs) and Queen Iduna’s Potato Lefse.

Tipping in Rotational Dining

Disney Cruises do not include gratuities, at least up front. However, it is customary to tip your Disney Cruise servers , who accompany you throughout your stay on the ship from beginning to end.

Because you have the same servers each night, there’s no need to tip at the table after each meal. You’ll receive tip envelopes in your stateroom and can give those to the servers on the last night.

Tipping Envelopes are provided at the end of your Disney Cruise

Disney provides a suggested gratuity guideline to help you make an informed decision on how much to tip. Your Disney travel agent can also advise you on the appropriate tip amount.

If you do nothing in advance, the suggested tip amount will be automatically added to your onboard folio at the end of your cruise; you can adjust it up or down by visiting the Guest Services desk onboard.

Is Alcohol Included in Rotational Dining?

No, while the rotational dining experience includes your food, alcoholic beverages are not included . Beer, wine, cocktails, and certain specialty non-alcoholic drinks are available but come at an additional cost, billed to your stateroom folio. Complimentary beverages offered during your meals include soft drinks, coffee, and tea, See our Alcohol on Disney Cruises article for more.

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Kids Menus at Disney Cruise Line’s Rotational Dining

Every restaurant in Disney Cruise Line’s rotational dining setup provides a dedicated menu for kids. The kids’ menu features time-tested favorites like mac ‘n cheese, chicken tenders, burgers, grilled chicken skewers, salmon, pasta, and pizza. A range of soups, salads, and desserts round out the options available specifically for children. With familiar cuisine options tailored especially for children, Disney’s rotating dining caters to even the pickiest eaters.

While kids under ten are initially given the kids’ menu, they’re not limited to it. Disney Cruise Line allows children of any age to order from both the kids’ and adult menus, offering them a wider range of culinary experiences. This policy ensures that all young guests can fully enjoy the rotational dining experience.

Do the Restaurants Actually Rotate?

The name “rotational dining” might be a little confusing.

In a revolving restaurant, such as EPCOT’s Garden Grill , the circular dining room slowly rotates during the meal, offering changing scenery while you remain seated. Disney Cruise Line restaurants are not revolving restaurants.

On a Disney Cruise, the term “rotational dining” means that you will visit a different restaurant each night — that is, you will  rotate among different restaurants throughout your cruise.

Pros and Cons of Disney’s Rotational Dining:

• Each dining room in the rotation offers a unique experience, allowing you to sample diverse cuisines and atmospheres.
• A significant advantage is the personalized service, as your servers follow you through the rotation and get to know your preferences and dietary needs.
• The integration of entertainment into the dining experience takes mealtime to a new level, keeping both adults and kids engaged.
• The set dining times (5:45 PM and 8:15 PM) may not suit everyone’s schedule, particularly those who prefer to eat at off-peak hours.
• You might find yourself longing to revisit a favorite restaurant, which can be challenging due to the predetermined rotation.
• While the nightly entertainment is often a hit, some guests might find it too stimulating, especially after a day filled with activities.

Insider Tips from Our Family:

Based on our multiple cruises, here are some tips to maximize your Disney cruise dining experience:

• Disney shines when it comes to accommodating food allergies, dietary restrictions, or taste preferences. Communicate your needs when booking (or have your Disney travel agent do it) and to your servers onboard for a seamless dining experience.
• Don’t hesitate to order multiple appetizers or desserts. It’s all included and is a fantastic way to taste a variety of dishes.
• While the rotational dining schedule is part of the Disney magic, you don’t have to feel tied to it. Room service or casual dining options like Cabanas buffet are also excellent for a more laid-back evening.
• Beyond the rotational dining system, don’t forget the specialty dining options like Palo and Remy. These are perfect for a romantic date night or an adults-only escape. We highly recommend trying them at least once during your cruise. See our Specialty Dining on Disney Cruises article for more information.

Is Rotational Dining Worth It? Our Family’s Verdict:

If you’re questioning the value of rotational dining on Disney Cruise Line, our family’s verdict is a resounding yes !

What I personally like about this unique system is how it combines a variety of dining experiences with exceptional personal service. It’s really fun to explore the creative themes of each restaurant, enjoy all sorts of different flavors, and experience the unique entertainment each venue offers.

My daughter loves the variety and looked forward to the new themes each night. My son enjoys trying different dishes from around the world (he’s an adventurous eater like me). And my wife likes how the serving team remembered our names and preferences and followed us to each restaurant. She finds the mix of new places and familiar faces a comforting part of our trip. The way Disney blends dining with their signature magic makes the whole cruise experience even better.

Plan Your Dream Disney Cruise Vacation with The Vacationeer

Experience the magic of Disney Cruise Line with The Vacationeer . As our official partner and a Diamond-Level Earmarked Disney Vacation Planner Agency , they make planning stress-free . They’ll help you find the best stateroom on a Disney cruise to fit your budget and needs, whether it’s a cost-effective option or a lavish concierge-level suite .

But The Vacationeer’s services extend beyond accommodations; they also assist in organizing your dining schedule and shore excursions and even handle transportation to Disney cruises from Florida or other ports. They can offer valuable advice on Florida resident discounts and other ways to save on your Disney cruise . They’ll also explain how rotational dining works on Disney Cruise Line and help you understand the other dining options.

Whether it’s finding the best itinerary , providing Castaway Cay tips , or getting the latest information about Disney Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point , The Vacationeer is here to help. Plus, when you book with The Vacationee r, you will receive up to $1,000 in Disney onboard credits (cashback) for extra expenses on your cruise.

Relax and bask in the excitement of your upcoming cruise while your dedicated Vacationeer takes care of the rest. Their services are entirely free , and they even provide a no-obligation quote and a free consultation .

Reach out to The Vacationeer RIGHT NOW and take the first step toward planning an unforgettable Disney Cruise Line adventure!

Explore Our Other Disney Cruise Line Pages

Check out our other dedicated Disney Cruise Line articles to learn more. They are rich with insights about various aspects of the Disney Cruise experience. For example, don’t miss our comparative analysis in Which Cruise Line is Best for Kids or Disney Cruise vs Royal Caribbean ,

Stay updated with the latest Disney Cruise Line itineraries, departure ports, and sailing dates for 2023, 2024 , and 2025 :

• Disney Cruises to Alaska
• Disney Cruises in Europe
• Disney Cruises from Fort Lauderdale
• Disney Cruises from Galveston
• Disney Cruises to Hawaii
• Disney Cruises from Miami
• Disney Cruises from New Orleans
• Disney Cruises from New York  
• Disney Cruises from Port Canaveral
• Disney Cruises from San Diego

Happy cruising!

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How Does Dining on Disney Cruise Line Work?

By: Author Carrie Ann Karstunen

Posted on Published: July 8, 2021  - Last updated: November 21, 2022

Are you planning your first Disney cruise? Cruisers new to DCL often have lots of questions about how dining on Disney Cruise Line works.

I’ll answer all of the most commonly asked questions about meals on a Disney cruise —everything from handling food allergies, to how seating arrangements work, to requesting extra dessert at dinner.

What food and drinks are included in my Disney cruise fare?

All Disney cruise ships offer three Main Dining restaurants that are complimentary for all passengers. But you’re not limited to eating in the MDR if you don’t want to pay extra for your meals and snacks!

You’ll also find quick-service dining options for a poolside meal, a buffet that becomes a table-service restaurant at dinner, and 24-hour room service, all for free!

Every ship also has upscale specialty dining restaurants along with elevated snack options available for an added charge.

To find out what complimentary and for-a-fee dining options will be available on your cruise, check DCL’s dining venue list and select your specific ship from the drop-down menu.

Soft drinks served at meals and at each ship’s beverage station are also included in your cruise fare.

What is rotational dining on a Disney cruise?

If you’ve sailed before on other cruise lines, you’ll notice that DCL does things a bit differently when it comes to dinner. Disney cruises use a concept called rotational dining, where guests receive a personalized dining schedule on embarkation day. You’ll be assigned to either early or late dining, and your schedule shows which restaurant you’ll dine at each evening.

Rotational dining is Disney’s way of making sure each guest has a chance to try each of the three Main Dining restaurants while on board.

Each evening, you and your tablemates will rotate to a different themed restaurant. Plus, your servers rotate with you! This way, the service staff gets to know your preferences while you experience the unique atmosphere of each dining venue.

Disney Cruise Line doesn’t offer a version of “anytime dining” in their main dining rooms. However, if your set dinner time interferes with your plans on any day, you can always eat at an alternative dining venue or make reservations for a specialty restaurant.

Be sure to let your server know if you’ve made other dining plans—they’ll usually delay service for the rest of the table if they think you’re just running late.

Will I have to sit with strangers at dinner? Can I request a private table?

DCL’s standard policy is to seat guests from the same stateroom together at dinner in the Main Dining venues. If you have friends or family sailing with you but in a different cabin, you can absolutely ask to sit together. Just be sure to request this when you book your cruise, or let your travel agent know.

Disney staff aim to fill the dining tables, which generally seat four, six, or eight. If you have a smaller party, they’ll usually seat you with other guests. They do try to match dining groups—seating adults without children together and matching families with other similarly-aged families.

Although they generally do a great job of matching guests for dinner, occasionally they get it wrong and you’ll find yourself sitting with someone you can’t stand. Just let the Head Server know, and they often can make alternate arrangements.

Don’t like the idea of eating with people you don’t know? You can request a private table for dinner. Just call DCL or tell your travel agent, and the cruise line will try to honor your request.

What time is dinner served on Disney cruise ships?

Each evening on a Disney cruise, there are two seatings for dinner, the main or early seating, and the second or late seating. The early seating begins sometime between 5:45 PM and 6:15 PM (exact times vary based on itinerary). The late seating begins between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM.

Your assigned seating time (along with an alphabetical code for the order of your dining rotation) will be noted on the dining tickets you’ll find in your stateroom on embarkation day.

Want to change your seating time for your cruise? You can submit a request through DCL’s  Planning Center .

Do the rotational dining venues offer entertainment at dinner?

Several—but not all—of the complimentary restaurants offer entertainment at dinner.

Inspired by Tangled , Rapunzel’s Royal Table on Disney Magic features lively singing and dancing from a band of musicians. You’ll enjoy appearances from Tangled characters like Flynn Rider, the Snuggly Duckling Thugs, and of course Rapunzel herself.

At Tiana’s Place on Disney Wonder , the Crawfish Crooners perform New Orleans-style jazz numbers during your meal. Louis the trumpet-playing alligator joins in on the fun, and Tiana is on hand to greet her guests and sing a few of her favorite songs.

Animator’s Palate , inspired by animation from Disney and Pixar films, is available on all Disney ships. Depending on the ship, each Animator’s Palate features a different show during dinner. On Disney Dream , diners can interact with a digital Crush the sea turtle from Finding Nemo .

On Disney Magic , Fantasy , and Wonder , guests at Animator’s Palate are treated to a montage of Disney and Pixar clips. The show’s finale features the theme song from Fantasmic , with a visit from Sorcerer Mickey who dances and mingles with passengers.

Are there other character dining experiences available on a Disney cruise?

Disney fans (especially the littlest ones) love character dining, and you can book even more character experiences to enjoy at mealtime.

Is your kid obsessed with Disney princesses? Royal Court Royal Tea , designed for children aged 3 to 12 is offered on all Disney cruise ships. Adults are welcome, but they must be accompanied by a child! Cinderella, Belle, and Ariel host this beautifully presented tea party, where guests can enjoy small sandwiches and pastries.

Royal Tea is a bit of a splurge, but your child will also receive several high-quality gifts during the hour-long experience (you can choose between princess-themed and knight-themed gifts).

If your Disney cruise is seven nights or longer, the family can enjoy a character breakfast, and it’s free! Disney Junior Breakfasts are usually scheduled twice a week on sea days . Space is limited, so you do need to request tickets in advance through your Disney Cruise Personalizer online or via the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app.

Geared toward little cruisers, the characters you might see include Sofia The First, Doc McStuffins, Jake, and Vampirina. Of course, Mickey Mouse will also be there to meet the family.

Is room service available on a Disney cruise?

Although many cruise lines now charge a fee for room service, DCL offers complimentary round-the-clock meal delivery right to your stateroom.

You can order meals or snacks at any time, although lunch and dinner options are unavailable during the breakfast hours of 7 to 10 AM. Room service is available until 1:30 AM on the last day of your cruise.

Certain snacks and beverages do have an additional charge, and tips aren’t included (a dollar per meal is just fine).

Do Disney ships have a buffet?

Most Disney Cruise Line ships feature Cabanas , a buffet-style restaurant that offers more than ten diverse food stations for breakfast and lunch. At dinnertime, Cabanas converts to a table-service restaurant with menu options cooked to order.

For breakfast, Cabanas serves classic American breakfast fare to start the day. Enjoy made-to-order omelets, scrambled eggs, sausages, hash browns, Mickey-shaped waffles, muffins, fruit, cereal, and more.

The lunch offerings at Cabanas include salads, soups, burgers, sandwiches, steak, chicken, seafood, and pizza, along with a range of sweet dessert treats.

If you’d like to skip your scheduled restaurant at dinner, you can eat alfresco or choose an indoor oceanview table at Cabanas. The menu features signature dishes from the Main Dining restaurants, plus their own exclusives.

For an additional charge, you can order cocktails and specialty drinks from the full-service Clam Bar .

Cabanas has plenty of kid-friendly options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You’ll find classic children’s food favorites to satisfy picky eaters of any age.

The new Disney Wish ship, launched in July 2022, replaces Cabanas with a new buffet concept called Marceline Market .

Marceline Market is a food hall with ten stalls, all inspired by marketplaces around the world. Cruisers can enjoy a variety of food options, including American favorites and comfort foods, international specialties, and vegetarian and vegan fare.

Which restaurants serve breakfast and lunch on Disney cruise ships?

In addition to the buffet and the various quick-service restaurants on board each Disney ship, some of the Main Dining restaurants also serve breakfast and lunch daily, including:

• Disney Dream :  Royal Palace  and  Enchanted Garden
• Disney Fantasy :  Royal Court  and  Enchanted Garden
• Disney Magic :  Lumiere’s
• Disney Wonder :  Triton’s
• Disney Wish : 1923

Check your Personal Navigator daily newsletter or the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app on board for specific breakfast and lunch times.

Are all the restaurants on Disney cruise ships kid-friendly?

All of the Main Dining restaurants you’ll visit in your rotation are kid-friendly, along with Cabanas and all of the quick-service food venues. However, the specialty restaurants are all adults-only. All guests at these added-charge restaurants must be 18 or over.

Adults-only dining venues on Disney ships include:

• Remy (on Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy )
• Palo (on all DCL ships)
• Palo Steakhouse (on Disney Wish )
• Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement (on Disney Wish )

What’s the difference between the Main Dining restaurants and the specialty restaurants on DCL?

The food served in Disney’s Main Dining restaurants tends to be excellent, with a variety of options for all palates. But the adults-only specialty restaurants on Disney cruises elevate the cuisine, service, and ambiance to a much higher level.

Foodies and those seeking a reprieve from the often noisy atmosphere you’ll experience with rotational dining might want to consider booking dinner or brunch at a specialty restaurant. It’s not cheap—but many Disney cruisers agree that the experience, as well as the food, are well worth the money.

Remy is DCL’s ultra-luxe gourmet French dining venue featuring a menu co-curated by Chef Arnaud Lallement (of France’s three-Michelin-starred L’Assiette Champenoise) and Chef Scott Hunnel of Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World. The décor is loosely inspired by Ratatouille , but you won’t find costumed rat characters—it’s an elegant experience, perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion.

• Dinner:  $125 per person
• Remy Champagne Brunch:  $75 per person (add $30 per person when you include the Champagne pairing)
• Remy Dessert Experience:  $60 per person (add $25 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• Petites Assiettes de Remy:  $50 per person (includes one wine pairing per course) 
• Remy Wine Pairing Experience:  $105 per person

Palo , Disney’s upscale Italian restaurant, takes its name from the colorful poles lining the canals of Venice. Within Palo’s sophisticated atmosphere, diners can enjoy a memorable experience savoring Northern Italian specialties and classic reserve wines.

• Prix fixe dinner: $45 per person (add $59 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• À la carte menu: Priced by item (add $59 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• Brunch:  $45 per person

Palo Steakhouse takes the well-loved Palo concept of authentic Italian dining and combines it with the refinement of a modern steakhouse. Beauty and the Beast ‘s Cogsworth is the inspiration for this new restaurant.

• Prix fixe dinner: $45 per person. (add $70 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• À la carte menu: Priced by item (add $70 per person when you include the wine pairing)

Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement is another luxurious Disney dining experience curated by the renowned French chef. Inspired by everyone’s favorite candelabra maître d’, Lumiere, diners at Enchanté can expect to be surrounded by elegant, romantic design details.

• Enchanté Dinner Collection: $195 per person
• Champagne Journey: $140
• Passion (six courses): $125 per person (add $115 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• À la carte menu: Priced by item (add $115 per person when you include the wine pairing)
• Brunch:  $75 per person

How do I make reservations for Disney Cruise Line specialty restaurants?

As long as you’ve paid for your cruise in full, you’ll be able to make reservations in advance depending on your Castaway Club level. You can see what dates and times are available, as well as book your reservation, in your online cruise planner.

Here’s how far in advance of sailing you can make specialty dining reservations:

• Platinum Castaway Club (completed at least 10 DCL cruises): 120 days in advance
• Gold Castaway Club (completed at least 5 DCL cruises): 105 days in advance
• Silver Castaway Club (completed at least 1 DCL cruise): 90 days in advance
• New DCL cruisers : 75 days in advance.

Guests staying in concierge level staterooms can always make reservations 120 days in advance. Just be sure to reach out to your shoreside concierge prior to that 120-day mark so they can help you with booking.

Will restaurants on a Disney cruise accommodate food allergies or special diets?

If you have a food allergy or intolerance, let your Head Server know soon after you arrive on embarkation day.

Guests with severe or life-threatening food allergies should contact DCL’s Special Services team at (407) 566-3602 well before sailing.

Servers and kitchen staff on Disney cruises are well-trained to handle food allergies, but they don’t have separate kitchens to prepare allergen-free items.

For guests who follow a special diet for medical, lifestyle, or religious reasons, all of the table-service restaurants offer gluten-free, vegetarian, no sugar added, dairy-free, and “lighter note” offerings on the menu.

Other special diet options, including kosher meals, are available by advance request. Let your travel agent know what kind of special meals you’ll need, or call Disney Cruise Line well before your sailing date to discuss your options.

You may also like: How to Eat Whole30 (ish) on a Cruise

Is there a limit to how much food I can order at the dining venues?

When you’re eating in one of the rotational dining restaurants or at a quick-service spot, feel free to order as much food as you can eat! Maybe you’d like to order an extra appetizer (or two!) for the table so you can all share. And yes, if you have a sweet tooth, you can absolutely order two desserts.

This goes for the main course as well! For cruisers with hearty appetites, you can definitely order two entrées if you’re feeling ravenous.

In the for-a-fee specialty restaurants, you can generally ask for an extra starter or dessert if you’re ordering from the prix-fixe menu. Some cruisers have had luck ordering additional main courses, but many others haven’t. It seems to be a YMMV situation!

However, when ordering from the à la carte menu at any of the specialty restaurants, you’ll be charged for each item you order.

You may also like: What New Cruisers Don’t Know About Cruise Food & Drinks

Do restaurants on Disney ships have a dress code?

In the Main Dining restaurants, the dress code is “cruise casual”, so shorts and tees are allowed. Swimwear isn’t allowed in the dining rooms, and (at least officially) tank tops are banned. However, dining staff don’t tend to turn away women wearing dressy tanks, sleeveless tops, or tank-style dresses. Male passengers won’t be allowed in if they show up in a tank top.

Although cruise casual is the official minimum dress code, most passengers tend to dress up a bit for dinner.

On most Disney sailings, one night will be themed as Pirate Night . That evening the restaurant servers, dressed in pirate costumes, will bring you Caribbean-inspired food. Many guests like to join in on the fun, wearing their own pirate-themed outfits to dinner.

You’ll also have at least one optional dress-up night (seven-night sailings have one formal and one semi-formal night). DCL recommends dress pants with a jacket or a suit for men, and a dress or pantsuit for women.

Learn more: What to Wear on Formal Night on a Cruise

For adults-only restaurants, like Palo, Remy, and Enchanté the dress code is a little more strict to maintain an elegant atmosphere.

Disney Cruise Line used to have very specific dress codes for each adult dining venue. However, in June 2022 the cruise line relaxed the rules.

Per DCL, the new dress code states: “ Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Dress casual attire with a polished look is permitted (such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts and blouses and lifestyle shoes). Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire is not permitted. “

Can I bring my own food on a Disney cruise ship?

With all the options available for dining on Disney Cruise Line, many people wouldn’t even think of bringing their own food on a DCL ship. But for parents of especially picky kids, or adults who can’t imagine being without their favorite snacks, this is a question that comes up fairly often.

Parents of babies eating solid foods also wonder if they’ll be allowed to take the specific jarred baby food their child enjoys onto the ship.

Disney has specific rules surrounding food items, as well as food prep and storage items that guests can and can’t take on the ship.

You can bring:

• Nonperishable foods in sealed, original packaging. (All items must either be consumed prior to returning to your home port or remain unopened.)
• Breast milk (in your carry-on luggage only).
• Coolers no larger than 12″ x 12″ x 12″ only for storing medications, baby food or items related to dietary restrictions (in your carry-on luggage only).

 You may not bring:

• Homemade, pre-cooked, or perishable foods or open food containers.
• Ice chests or coolers, except as noted above.
• Electrical appliances such as rice cookers, hot plates, coffee makers, blenders, bottle sterilizers, and bottle warmers (each ship has a limited number of approved bottle warmers and bottle sterilizers available—request these through Guest Services)

Ready to book your dream Disney cruise? Find the  best DCL prices  and exclusive bonus offers when you book through  CruiseDirect . Plus, they never charge a booking fee!

More resources for your Disney cruise

• Where Do Disney Cruises Go?
• Disney Wish: Everything You Need to Know About DCL’s Newest Cruise Ship
• How to Have the Best Embarkation Day on a Cruise

What do you think about dining on Disney Cruise Line? Or is your first sailing coming up and you still have questions about how dining works on DCL cruises? Let me know in the comments below!

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Dining on a Disney Cruise: A Complete Guide

Whether traveling with family or a couples-only trip, Disney Cruise Line is our absolute favorite way to vacation! One of the highlights for us is the food. We absolutely love the amazing food, fabulous service and unique dining experiences on board these four wonderful ships. In this post, we will provide a complete guide with everything you need to know about rotational dining and the main dining restaurants, the buffet, counter-service locations, specialty restaurants, room service and more. After reading this post, you will know exactly what to expect when it comes to dining on a Disney Cruise!

• Rotational Dining on Disney Cruise Line

Rotational Dining is one of the highlights of a Disney Cruise Line vacation! It’s definitely something that sets apart a Disney cruise from other cruise lines. Many cruise lines have a ‘Main Dining Room’ where you dine each night. On many lines, you will have the same server each night. If you want to dine elsewhere, there are often what is called Specialty Restaurants that you can dine at instead. These Specialty Restaurants typically have an additional charge to eat there, while the Main Dining Room dinners are included. Essentially, you are having to choose between having your food included and getting to eat at a variety of restaurants. Plus, you only get the same servers if you eat in the same place each night.

The Disney Cruise Line Difference

Disney Cruise Line has developed a system that allows you to have the best of both options – Rotational Dining. With Rotational Dining, you have the same service team each night, your dinners are included and you still get to eat at each of the different restaurants!  Your party will have an assigned table number and service team which will remain the same throughout your cruise, regardless of which restaurant you are eating at. Each night, you will be assigned to one of the 3 main restaurants on the ship, and you will rotate through them each night depending on the duration of your cruise. For example, on a 3-night cruise you will eat at each restaurant once, while on a 7-night cruise you will eat at two restaurants twice, and one restaurant 3x.

As you move to a new restaurant each night, you sit at the same table number and your server, assistant server and head server move with you! On the 4 th night, you will return to the first restaurant again and if your cruise is longer, you will continue to cycle through the restaurants again. However, each night of the cruise there will also be a different menu. This system is one of our favorite parts about dining on a Disney cruise!

Your Dining Team on Disney Cruise Line

The incredible service team that follows you each night is a highlight of their cruise for many guests! By being with you throughout the cruise, they really get to know you and your family. They’ll probably remember what you like to drink by the second or third night, and have it ready for you when you arrive at the table! Another highlight is the uniquely themed restaurants you’ll be dining in throughout your cruise! Keep reading to see which restaurants are offered on each ship.

Click here for more about Rotational Dining!

Main Restaurants

Each ship has three main restaurants that you will rotate through with Rotational Dining. However, each ship has different restaurants! Some of them are present on multiple ships, while others are exclusive to just one or two ships. In addition to eating your main dinners here, typically one of the restaurants will be open each day during breakfast and lunch for an a la carte option. Check out our list below to see all of the main restaurants on the ships!                                                                             

Enchanted Garden

On the Dream and the Fantasy, the Enchanted Garden Restaurant is located on Deck 2 Midship. This gorgeous dining room is themed after the beautiful gardens of Versailles. Enjoy a delightful meal at twilight with the day fading to evening around you as you dine. As the sky turns from daylight blue to sunset red, and finally to the twinkling stars, you’ll also see flower light fixtures bloom around you. This is certainly an enchanted garden, indeed! This restaurant is so beautiful we actually took some wedding photos here, which turned out beautiful (see below!)

Tritons/Lumiere’s/Royal Palace/Royal Court

First, these restaurants all have a different name and a slightly different design on each ship. However, these restaurants have a similar vibe and are all located in the lobby atrium of the ship on Deck 3 Midship. The lobby atrium is the first place you see when you enter the ship for the first time! These restaurants each have an elegant, upscale theme inspired by gorgeous palaces and Disney royalty. You’ll feel as though you’ve entered a royal ballroom in one of Disney’s classic princess movies!

Animator’s Palate

Animator’s Palate is the only restaurant that is on all 4 of the Disney ships. However, the concept varies depending on which ship you are on. On the Magic and Wonder, the restaurant has a black and white hand-drawn sketch theme, which will turn to color during one magical dining experience. Meanwhile, on the Dream and Fantasy, the theme of the restaurant is designed after an artist’s studio. Here, during your meal you’ll be immersed under the sea and into the world of Finding Nemo. On sailings 7 nights or longer, you’ll also get to enjoy Animation Magic. This is a show where every guest gets to draw their own character and see it come to life during the show. Regardless of which ship you’re on, dinner at Animator’s Palate will be an amazing experience!

Rapunzel’s Royal Table

On the Disney Magic, you can experience a delightful dining experience at this restaurant themed after the movie Tangled! Enjoy a feast fit for royalty as you celebrate the return of the lost princess, Princess Rapunzel. You’ll be treated to lively entertainment and appearances from your favorite Tangled characters!

Tiana’s Place

Princess Tiana’s dream was always to open a restaurant, and her dream has finally come to life on board the Disney Wonder! Experience a celebration of southern cooking and live jazz music in this festive restaurant. Full of southern charm, you’ll enter this Louisiana-themed restaurant and be transported straight to the bayou and into the story of the Princess and the Frog!

On board all 4 Disney Cruise Line ships, Cabanas is the main breakfast and lunch buffet restaurant! This is where most guests will choose to eat breakfast or lunch (or both) each day. It’s convenient and delicious, and buffets are just quick and easy! Plus, since it is located on the pool deck, you can easily pop in and grab your meal before taking it outside to eat on the deck or by the pool. Though many buffet items change every day, there are plenty of selections that are available every day! This boardwalk-themed restaurant has ten food stations serving an array of classic American fare. They have a top notch breakfast buffet with all the staples. We love that for lunch they always have pizza, chicken fingers, fries and macaroni & cheese available for the kids (and for guests like us, who just love ‘kids’ foods!). Additionally, they have a ton of other options like salmon, chicken, steak, seafood and vegetarian options. A salad bar, soups and dessert bar are all available too.

Dinner at Cabanas on a Disney Cruise

For dinner, if you miss your regular rotational dining seating or just prefer a quieter setting with an ocean view, you can also choose to dine in Cabanas. For dinner, Cabanas transforms into an a la carte dining experiences serving signature dishes from the main restaurants and other delicacies. If this is your first cruise we definitely don’t recommend skipping your scheduled dinner, as each of the main restaurants is exceptional. However, if you are a repeat cruiser or if you miss your main dinner for any reason, this is another great option for dining on a Disney cruise ship!

Counter Service Restaurants

Each ship has a selection of quick service options to enjoy as well. Order at a walk-up counter and you can immediately enjoy pizza, chicken tenders, burgers, fries and other favorites. They also have healthier options available like fruit and wraps! These counter service restaurants are a great option if you want to grab and go, eat by the pool or want a mid-day snack.

On the Dream and Fantasy, Flo’s Café combines Luigi’s Pizza, Tow Mater’s Grill and Fillmore’s Favorites with all the options located in a row. On the Magic and Wonder, the options are a bit more spread out throughout the Deck 9 pool area. Pinocchio’s Pizzeria serves up hot, fresh slices while Daisy’s De-Lites offers some great healthier options. The Duck-in Diner on the Magic and Pete’s Boiler Bites on the Wonder offer delicious American fare. The Duck-in Diner also serves Middle Eastern shawarma which is another delicious option!

Tip: When the Wonder sails to Alaska, you can also get an amazing soft pretzel from Pinocchio’s Pizzeria on sea days.

Specialty Restaurants

There are two specialty restaurants on board the Disney ships, which serve dinner and brunch. Palo is located on all four ships, while Remy is only available on the Dream and Fantasy. Both Palo and Remy are adult-exclusive, and offer an exceptional dining experience at an additional fee.

Palo and Remy

Palo is a delightfully chic Italian restaurant serving exquisite cuisine inspired by Northern Italy but with a twist.  Remy on the other hand is the most upscale dining experience on any of the Disney ships. This authentic French restaurant offers fine French fare in a first class, elegant dining experience. Of course, Remy is inspired by the Disney Pixar film Ratatouille.

Brunch and dinner at Palo are both $40 per person. For Remy, brunch is $75 while dinner is $125 (gratuities not included for either restaurant). As a bonus, if you are a Platinum Castaway Club member (have sailed 10+ times on DCL), you get a free meal at Palo.

Should you dine at Palo or Remy?

If this is your first cruise, don’t feel like you have to skip your wonderful main dining restaurant in order to pay extra for one of these specialty options. However, these restaurants are absolutely fabulous and definitely worth experiencing if you are celebrating a special occasion on board, or just want a special adults-night out!

Looking for other ways to enjoy some romantic, adult-only time on a Disney Cruise? Check out our post about experiencing romance on Disney Cruise Line!

Tip: If you have dinner at Palo, be sure to order a soufflé for dessert! The chocolate soufflé that Josh loves is famous among Disney cruisers, while Brittany prefers the Amaretto soufflé. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

Room Service (24-hr Dining on Disney Cruise Line!)

Room service is included on Disney Cruise Line, which we absolutely love! There are some items on the menu (canned soda, pre-packaged snacks like M&Ms, etc.) that are an added cost, and gratuities are not included, however for the most part you can order to your heart’s content without any additional cost. Some people love to order room service for breakfast. If you have a verandah stateroom, this is a great option because you can eat outside on your private balcony! Personally, we love to order room service as a late night snack. Brittany love the All Hands on Deck cheese platter, and the Macaroni and Cheese. Josh loves the Chicken Tenders and the Pepperoni Pizza. They also have some great dessert options, including a cake selection that changes daily. Having 24/7 room service is a highlight of the dining experience on Disney Cruise Line for many guests!

Tip: You can order a Mickey Ice Cream Bar from Room Service, even though it’s not on the menu!

Other Dining Locations on a Disney Cruise

Although we’ve covered all the main options, this wouldn’t be a “complete” guide if we didn’t cover the rest of the food service locations on board the ships! From snack spots to theater concessions to where to grab a smoothie, we’ve outlined the rest of the food locations below:

Eye Scream Ice Cream

Unlimited free soft serve ice cream? Sign us up! It’s no wonder that Eye Scream is probably one of our most visited spots on the ship. On our last cruise, we had visited this spot for ice cream cones five times before the ship even sailed out of port! They always have chocolate and vanilla available (plus vanilla-chocolate swirl) however they also switch out additional flavors throughout the cruise. You can check back throughout the cruise for flavors like banana, strawberry and blueberry!

O’Gills, Crown and Fin Pub, Pub 687

Each ship has a pub that is located within the nightclub/lounge area (which are 18+ after 9:00 PM). These pubs offer a small selection of pub grub which is available for an additional cost.

Cove Café and Vista Café

The Cove Café offers a relaxing atmosphere for adults to enjoy a specialty beverage in an adults-only setting. On all four ships, Cove Café is adjacent to the Quiet Cove adult pool. On the Dream and Fantasy, Vista Café is another option with similar selections in a setting overlooking the lobby atrium. The coffees, teas and specialty beverages at these cafes are an additional cost. In both Cove Café and Vista Café, they have a small selection of snacks and desserts available. Though it may look like they cost too, they are actually complimentary, so definitely give one a try!

Vanellope’s Sweets and Treats/Sweet on You

On the Fantasy and the Dream, a specialty ice cream, gelato and dessert shop offers a delightful selection of tempting treats! All options are available at an additional cost.

Theater Concessions

The Walt Disney Theater (where you’ll see Broadway-style shows and variety acts) and the Buena Vista Theater (the on board movie theater) both have a concession stand where you can purchase popcorn and other snacks for an additional cost.

Senses Juice Bar

Enjoy a freshly made blended smoothie or beverage for an added cost on the Dream and Fantasy as you enjoy a beautiful ocean view. The Senses Juice Bar is located inside Senses, between the fitness center and the spa. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a nutritious juice or smoothie after a workout or treatment!

Frozone/Sulley’s Sips

This poolside spot (Sulley’s Sips on the Disney Wonder, and Frozone on the other three ships) offers refreshing frozen beverages and smoothies for an added cost.

Nightly Adult-Area Buffet

Lastly, on most cruises, there is a small nightly buffet of late-night snacks available for the adults. The food items change day-to-day, but they typically have fruit and hot items such as dumplings, pigs in a blanket, etc. The location of this complimentary buffet varies by ship, but is located in the adult-only areas  (District, Europa or After Hours).

Dining on a Disney Cruise: Conclusion

There are so many options for dining on a Disney cruise that it’s almost impossible to go hungry! Food is available at all times of the day and you can eat as much as you’d like. While there are some options that have an additional cost, for the most part everything is included! You can certainly make it through the cruise without paying extra for food.

Dining is one of favorite parts of a Disney Cruise! From the amazing food to the fabulous servers, and the unique and exciting restaurants, it’s sure to be a highlight for many guests. And don’t forget about the unlimited ice cream! With so much to look forward to, who’s ready to start planning their next Disney Cruise Line vacation? We know we are!

If you are interested in planning a Disney Cruise Line vacation and are looking for a travel agent specializing in Disney cruises, we recommend reaching out to Josh at Wish Upon a Star with Us . He would love to help you plan your Magical cruise vacation.

Let us know in the comments what you’d most look forward to on a Disney Cruise!

Further Reading

• Why a Disney Cruise is NOT just for Kids
• Finding Romance on a Disney Cruise
• Thinking of a Disney Cruise Line Wedding?
• Top Photo Spots on Disney Cruise Line and Castaway Cay

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