What would you recommend - number in party?

[Batphobic]

Hi everyone -

Got a trip coming up in June and trying to scramble to get ADRs... I know... I'm late. Been tough to get some of the ones we want but that's how it goes.

Question:
We have 5 paying people - 2 adults and 3 kids. But we have two kids under 3 as well. So - how many should I put down when I'm getting my reservations? 5? 7?

If they have 6 people in the system they'll automatically charge the tip -- which isn't the end of the world but I always prefer to perceive that my server is actually trying to earn the tip.

Thanks for any thoughts on this...

 

[CAPTAIN HOOK]

Your shout here - but if you book 5 and they seat you at a table for 4 with an additional place setting at the end, you're going look rather silly trying to get 7 around it.

Book for 7 then argue the automatic tip afterwards

 

[Batphobic]

yeah good point. We really need 6 place setting since we need the 2 year old in a high chair (the infant will be strapped in a baby carrier the whole time). So we've booked 9 ADRs with 6 - thanks!

 

[FLRick]

Please keep in mind the fire marshall sets the maximum occupancy of the restaurant. Even if they are under three, they are still counted as occupants. If the restaurant is full you could be denied entry.

 

[Rob562]

yeah good point. We really need 6 place setting since we need the 2 year old in a high chair (the infant will be strapped in a baby carrier the whole time). So we've booked 9 ADRs with 6 - thanks!

Your ADRs should really be for 7. The baby carrier will require a "space". They won't seat you at a table for 6.

-Rob

 

[Dwarful]

Rob is right on this one. We have 11 in our trip in June. We have the free dining and only 9 are on the meal plan as the others are under 3. They were very clear on asking this for the ADR's..esp. at places like Cinderellas and the Luau. We did argue the tip once a few years ago at a buffet. We had 12 in our group...it was a late seating, no drink refills, we had to set our empty salad plates on the table behind us, etc....meaning service wasn't up to par. With the inflated 'seasonal pricing' you will run into some large tips at buffets for lunch and dinner and should plan that in your budget.