one extra guest for ADRs next week--call the restaurant?

[ASilmser]

Okay ADR experts. . . we have some booked for next week, but we have a friend who lives in the area who will now be able to meet us. We have ADR's for 4 at some highly coveted places (Star Wars Breakfast, California Grill). Called WDWDine and they almost laughed at me. We have added to our party before by just letting them know at the podium, and it has worked out. However, this has been at places that were a little more "normal." I'd like to be more prepared this time, especially given the places we have booked. Would it be beneficial to call the restaurant directly and give them a heads up? Do they have access to the ADR's a week in advance?
Or do we just show up and hope for the best?

 

[Tuvalu]

My understanding is that the restaurants receive the ADR list the same day. Any advance changes to your party size must be booked through WDW dining. We have a similar issue with locals wanting to meet us in a couple weeks, and the restaurant is booked solid that night. The CM told me on the phone to show up at the podium at opening and hope for the best.

 

[dreamfinder]

Going from 4 to 5 is real tough. You go from a 4 top to needing a 6 top, or two 4 tops pushed together. You really would need to keep trying online/through WDWDINE to get the correct party size. Showing up at the podium could yield either a really long wait, or possibly being told we can't accommodate the extra. Calling the restaurant won't do much for you, podium day of they may be able to help, but it's a long shot.