Dinning with a baby

[nbreier0805]

We are going to be taking our son to Disney in September after his 1st birthday! My husband and I have been to Disney many times, but this will be our first time with a child and we are looking for some suggestions on the best places to eat with a little one. Any tips or suggestions are welcome. Thank in advance!

 

[belledream]

So fun! We had the time of our lives with our 1 year old last September. Dining was definitely something I was concerned about, but there were plenty of options.

1. We did more Quick Service than we usually do. No ADR times to follow... and it was fast, cheap(er), and easy. Some places like Columbia Harbor House and Satu'li Canteen seemed healthier and more sensible than typical burger/fries joints.
2. We did only a few Table Service meals. I researched menus online to make sure there were dishes that I would enjoy, but that would be suitable for the baby as well. So I shared my meal with him. Was sometimes left hungry (me, not him). I would say do your own research since you know what your child will like best, rather than going to a restaurant someone recommends, but then finding that the menu doesn't fit your needs.
3. Buffets/All-You-Care-To-Enjoy turned out to be the best option for us. Also the most expensive, but the most fun. So many different offerings that kept us full... character entertainment... and under 3 is free, but they still gave him a cup of milk to drink! We did Crystal Palace and Garden Grill: two of my personal favorites - and in the parks too, so travel time wasn't an issue.

I brought snacks from home... crackers/cookies/squeezable fruit pouches. I felt like those gave him a nice little boost. And we could buy small jugs of whole milk at the gift shop in our resort. Bring an insulated cup/bottle to the parks - it kept drinks cold for hours and that is very much needed in September.

 

[EmmieSue]

Buffets are nice because they are free, but don't have to share your food. We also enjoyed Via Napoli because we could get a pizza for all of us.