Hands up: have you ever set an alarm to wake up and scramble to book your Disney ADR (Advanced Dining Reservation) the full 60 days in advance?
Anyone who takes their Disney vacations seriously has been there, us included. The race to book a table at some of Disney’s iconic dining spots has long been part of the planning process, with guests rushing to secure their dream meals as soon as reservation windows open.
While some restaurants remain consistently hard to get into, others that were once notoriously tough to book have seen their popularity fade. Dining spots that used to require near-miraculous timing to snag a reservation have become far more accessible in recent years. Here’s a look at why some of these previously elusive spots are no longer in such high demand.
Oga’s Cantina
Oga’s Cantina is an immersive bar experience located in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at both Disneyland Park and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Modeled after a bustling spaceport cantina straight from the Star Wars universe, it offers guests a chance to sip on unique, out-of-this-world concoctions while surrounded by alien decor and lively tunes from DJ R-3X, a droid-turned-DJ.
The menu features an array of creative cocktails, mocktails, and small bites, with quirky names like the Fuzzy Tauntaun and Jedi Mind Trick. The energetic, otherworldly vibe, combined with its galactic setting, makes Oga’s a must-visit for Star Wars fans and curious parkgoers alike – but fewer people are visiting the once-hot bar than ever.
Why Are Guests Ditching Oga’s Cantina?
While Oga’s Cantina initially generated immense buzz, securing a reservation has become noticeably easier in recent years. Guests have taken to Reddit to highlight the abundance of time slots now available on the apps for both Disneyland and Walt Disney World. “In trips past, we would have to wake up at 3 a.m. to get any spot we could,” one user reminisced about the Disneyland outlet of Oga’s. Others have even shared photos of cast members actively encouraging parkgoers to check out the bar.
This shift in accessibility doesn’t necessarily reflect a dip in Oga’s quality. Many believe it stems from the fact that the cantina experience is often a one-and-done adventure for most guests. Some have speculated that the rushed, cramped atmosphere might play a role in this trend. “Place is a total rip off,” said one Reddit user. “Staff forces food and drink on you and then out you go! Plus, they CRAM you into spaces just because.”
Personally, we love Oga’s Cantina… But they make some fair points.
Chef Mickey’s
Chef Mickey’s, located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, is a lively dining experience that combines delicious food with beloved Disney characters.
This buffet-style restaurant is a favorite among families, offering an all-you-can-eat feast featuring classic American cuisine alongside Disney’s iconic characters, including Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and Donald, who roam the dining room to greet guests and pose for photos. Its cheerful, bustling atmosphere, combined with its prime location just a monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom, makes it a must-visit for anyone looking to enjoy a meal with a side of Disney magic.
Are Less People Visiting Chef Mickey’s?
Reservation slots on the My Disney Experience app have become increasingly accessible for Chef Mickey’s, allowing guests to secure a spot without the months-long wait that used to be the norm.
While it’s tough to pinpoint the exact reasons for this shift, persistent complaints about the food quality at Chef Mickey’s have certainly played a role. Coupled with critiques of the character interactions in recent years, it’s clear that these factors may hinder the restaurant’s ability to shine among the plethora of dining options at Disney.
Le Cellier
Le Cellier, tucked away in EPCOT’s Canada Pavilion, offers an upscale, steakhouse-style dining experience with a cozy, cellar-like atmosphere.
Known for its signature dishes, such as the famous Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup and mouthwatering filet mignon, the restaurant has long been a favorite among Disney guests seeking a refined meal. Its intimate setting, combined with rich, indulgent flavors, helped establish Le Cellier as one of EPCOT’s most coveted dining spots.
Is Le Cellier Not Popular?
Le Cellier’s cozy atmosphere and upscale menu made it a must-visit for years, holding a firm spot on many visitors’ to-do lists. But despite its reputation for quality, demand for the restaurant has noticeably dropped. We’d chalk this up to a mix of skyrocketing prices (it’s definitely not cheap) and, dare we say, food that hasn’t quite lived up to its former glory.
Crystal Palace
The Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom Park offers a whimsical, light-filled dining experience with its Victorian-era greenhouse design and a prime location near Cinderella Castle. Known for its buffet-style meals and character dining with Winnie the Pooh and friends, it’s a favorite stop for families looking to meet beloved characters while enjoying classic comfort food.
The airy, open setting and proximity to key attractions make it a convenient choice for parkgoers, but in recent years, its once sky-high demand has dipped. With newer dining options now available, Crystal Palace remains charming but no longer commands the same level of reservation frenzy it once did.
Why Are Reservations Easier to Secure?
We still love Crystal Palace, but there have been divisive conversations about the quality and pricing of its food (we’re still firmly in the pro-Winnie the Pooh and co. camp, but you do you). Adding to the challenge, Disney World now boasts far more character dining options, giving the Hundred Acre Wood gang some serious competition.
What’s your must-have Disney dining reservation?