When you're visiting Walt Disney World, you'll probably want to enjoy some special treats and restaurant meals - this is a vacation, after all! But there are many tricks that can help you get a discount at Disney World and Orlando restaurants. There are a lot more Orlando restaurant discounts and coupons out there than you might think!

Advance Dining Reservations

It used to be that you could skip making reservations at most Disney table-service restaurants, particularly in the off-season. If you didn't have a reservation, you could usually just walk up and put your name on the list. You might have to wait, but you would get seated eventually. Those days are gone!

With the popularity of Disney's Dining Plan and the general upswing in attendance at Walt Disney World, the table-service locations are constantly busy and many of them do not have same-day walk-up availability. It has become very important to make advance dining reservations if you want to be assured of eating at a full-service location. Click here for more details.

Avoid Seasonal Restaurant Price Increases

Little known fact: Disney raises meal prices at many of its buffets and character meals during busy times of year. During these periods, a buffet or character meal will cost you about $4 more than normal (plus tax/tip) for an adult (ages 10+) and $2 more than normal (plus tax/tip) for a child under 10. (If you are on the Dining Plan, this does not affect you.)

This sneaky little maneuver has been going on for years, but for a long time it affected only Thanksgiving and Christmas season, and only at a few restaurants that were serving special holiday food items, making the increase somewhat justified.

In 2008, the price increases were expanded to include Easter and peak summer season, making it a year-round phenomenon, and many more restaurants are now included. At this point, virtually all of the buffets and character meals participate in this upcharge and it is based purely on dates, not on any "enhanced" menus.

Some examples of time periods when on-site buffet/character meal price increases will be in effect:

• May 25 - July 5, 2008 (peak summer season)
• November 22-29, 2008 (Thanksgiving week)
• December 16, 2008 - January 3, 2009 (holiday season)
• April 5-18, 2009 (Easter / spring break)
• May 24 - July 11, 2009 (peak summer season)

Other full-service restaurants may charge a premium on holidays (specifically Easter Sunday, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Eve and New Year's Day), so be sure to ask when booking reservations.

If you needed another reason to avoid visiting Walt Disney World during peak seasons, this is a good one!

Cheap Eats in the Parks & Resorts

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Bringing in Outside Food and Drink

Disney used to have a policy "requesting" that guests did not bring outside food and drink into the theme parks, but this was completely unenforced. Now it has changed its policy, and guests are allowed to bring food items, such as snacks or foods that do not require heating, into any Walt Disney World theme park. It is also completely fine to bring in bottled water or soft drinks.

One note of caution: avoid bringing in anything highly perishable, such as cold cuts. It would be easy to end up with food poisoning!

Also, you absolutely will NOT be allowed to bring in the following: hard-sided coolers, large coolers, glass containers, or alcoholic beverages. Also, you cannot bring any type of straws (even the little ones attached to juice boxes) into Animal Kingdom.

Best Bets

Really inexpensive meals in the theme parks are hard to find, but listed below are some cheap options for real food that will fill you up. Prices below are approximate and subject to change at any time. (See below for other tips and tricks to use at the theme park restaurants.)

• Magic Kingdom - Main Street Bake Shop is your best bet for a cheap breakfast: in addition to baked goods, mostly priced in the $2-$3 range, you can get breakfast quiche or cottage cheese and fruit for around $4. For lunch or dinner, Casey's Corner (Main Street) has a large hot dog with slaw or fries for around $6 and a side of chili for a bit over $3. Get a bowl of clam chowder or vegetarian chili at Columbia Harbor House for under $5. Cosmic Ray's (Tomorrowland) has a half rotisserie chicken with mashed potatoes and vegetables (split it between two people) for around $9. Sleepy Hollow refreshments in Liberty Square makes fresh, delicious and large ice cream cookie sandwiches for $4.19 that are very splittable.

• Epcot - For breakfast, there aren't many deals, but a bowl of oatmeal at Sunshine Seasons goes for about $2.50. Starting at 11:00 am, when World Showcase opens, you'll have more options. Boulangerie Patisserie (France) sells ham and cheese croissants for $3.25, ham and cheese quiche for $5 or a fruit and cheese plate for $6. Lotus Blossom Cafe (China) has two egg rolls for $4 or pot stickers for $5. Sunshine Seasons (Future World, The Land pavilion) has a half rotisserie chicken with two sides (split it between two people) for around $10. Or walk out the International Gateway to the Spoodles Pizza window, where a slice is about $4.

• Disney's Hollywood Studios - Starring Rolls Bakery has lots of inexpensive ($1-$2) mini baked goods for breakfast, or get two mini pastries plus a small orange juice or medium coffee for $4.79. For something more substantial, a bagel with smoked salmon is $6. Toluca Legs Turkey Company has a chili dog for $5. Rosie's All American Cafe offers a soup of the day for under $3. Catalina Eddie's and Toy Story Pizza Planet offer individual pizzas for around $6.

• Animal Kingdom - For a light breakfast, your best bet is Kusafiri Coffee Shop and Bakery next to Tusker House, where you can get a muffin or sweet roll for $2-$4. Anandupur Local Food Cafes (the fast food side of Yak & Yeti) has egg rolls or fried rice for under $4. Get a fruit and cheese plate at Harambe Fruit Market for under $6. Pizzafari offers a basket of cheesy bread sticks with marinara sauce for $4, and individual pizzas for around $6. Flame Tree Barbecue has a half smoked chicken with baked beans and corn muffin (split it between two people) for around $9.50.

Some of the best food can be found outside the theme parks, at the resort hotels.

• MouseSavers.com reader Thomas M says that Disney's Port Orleans-Riverside resort has a bargain in its food court: "there is create your own pasta that is dynamite! Fresh ingredients and huge portion wise @ $9.99 a bowl. Oftentimes we drive there for dinner just for the fettucine!"

Cheapest (and Healthiest) Food Item in the Parks - Fresh Fruit!

Each park has at least one fruit stand. Apples, pears, bananas, and oranges are usually around $1, which is very inexpensive compared with other snacks at the parks. Some stands also sell baby carrots for around $1. At the larger stands you may find watermelon or cantaloupe slices, grapes, strawberries, cut-up pineapple, yogurt, fruit salad, corn on the cob or baked potatoes at varying prices, with nothing over $4.

There are three fruit stands in the Magic Kingdom: on Main Street, at Liberty Square Market and in Mickey's Toontown Fair. Disney's Hollywood Studios has Anaheim Produce on Sunset Blvd. At Epcot, fruit is available at the Refreshment Outpost between China and Germany in World Showcase. Animal Kingdom offers fruit at Harambe Market in Africa, just outside Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Maximizing Value at Character Breakfasts

Disney's character breakfasts can be a lot of fun, and if you are traveling with kids, try to budget for one. However, they are expensive!

The least expensive character breakfasts are at Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom; 1900 Park Fare at Grand Floridian Resort or 'Ohana at Polynesian Resort (either of which are a quick monorail ride from Magic Kingdom); or Cape May Cafe at Beach Club Resort (quick walk or boat ride from Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios). Any of these breakfasts will cost you $18.99 for adults and $10.99 for kids. (As long as you avoid seasonal upcharges.)

Here's a way to maximize your dollar when paying for character breakfasts, shared by MouseSavers.com reader Lisa C:

"One money saving tip we have discovered is to eat breakfast at Chef Mickey's at the latest possible time (usually a reservation around 11:15 AM) on a day when the Magic Kingdom has early entry and so everyone will be ready for lunch by then. The buffet is very substantial, and all drinks -- coffee, milk, juice, etc. -- are included, so we drink a bunch and the kids get their character breakfast at a pretty reasonable price, considering that it is really lunch. This also allows us to take advantage of the lighter crowds in the morning at the Magic Kingdom. Also, because the restaurant is not open for lunch it starts to get quiet as people with earlier seating times leave, and ALL of the characters gather together in the waiting area for group photos of just your family, which the servers will gladly take with your camera. This has happened both times we have eaten there, and so I have photos of just my family with Goofy, Minnie, Mickey, Chip and Dale!"

Clearly you could apply a similar strategy to other character breakfast locations (not just Chef Mickey's) and regardless of whether you have access to early entry. As Lisa points out, since the crowds are lightest first thing in the morning, this strategy has the added advantage of allowing you to enjoy the attractions without long lines -- instead of spending prime time eating breakfast!

You'll probably want to eat something light to keep you going in the morning (for instance, all of the parks have pastry shops offering bagels, sweet rolls, milk and juice; or you can eat a light breakfast in your room). Then book the latest possible reservation for "breakfast" -- but consider it lunch!

Best Bargain "All You Care to Eat" Buffet on Disney Property

Without a doubt, the best buffet deal is Trail's End Buffeteria at Ft. Wilderness. Dinner is $20.99 for adults and $11.99 for kids, plus tax. (Compare this with many of the other dinner buffets at Walt Disney World, which charge around $26.99 for adults and $12.99 for kids.)

At dinner Trail's End offers fried chicken, barbeque pork ribs, peel and eat shrimp, a carved meat, soup, salad, side dishes and desserts. There is also a "soup and salad bar only" option at a lower price.

Breakfast buffet is $13.99 for adults and $8.99 for kids and includes items like Mickey waffles, corned beef hash, scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, biscuits & gravy, etc. There is also a "continental breakfast" option for a lower price.

Lunch buffet is $14.99 for adults and $9.99 for kids, and consists of items like soup, salad, fried chicken, pulled pork and mac & cheese, plus desserts. There is also a "soup and salad bar only" option at a lower price.

You can also get takeout food from Trail's End. A fried chicken dinner for 4 people is $19.99-$24.99. 16" pizzas start at $13.99.

Note that prices are higher at Trail's End during certain peak seasons.

The only tricky thing about Trail's End is getting there. The easiest way is to take a boat to Ft. Wilderness from the Magic Kingdom, the Contemporary Resort, or the Wilderness Lodge. From the Ft. Wilderness dock, it's just a short walk to Pioneer Hall, which is where the restaurant is located.

Super Cheap Kids' Meal

Sometimes my readers' cleverness just astounds me. Consider this discovery by MouseSavers.com reader Lisa C: "In the resort food courts... you can buy two slices of bread (white or wheat) for $.69 plus tax." Peanut butter is about .50, and in some food courts it's free because there are packets of it with the condiments. Jelly can be obtained for free because it's a condiment. So for around a dollar or less, you can make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Lisa notes, "We have a five-year-old, so this was a godsend and really saved us money over having to buy combo meals all the time."

Same Item, Lower Price

In a few cases, an expensive table-service restaurant and a nearby counter-service location offer the same food item for two very different prices. At a counter-service location, the item will be typically be presented without any garnish or sides and will be served on a paper plate. Here are some hints:

• At Liberty Tree Tavern in the Magic Kingdom, a bowl of New England Clam Chowder is $6.99 at lunch. Get the same chowder at the nearby Columbia Harbour House for $4.49 a bowl.

• At The Brown Derby in Disney's Hollywood Studios, the Flourless Chocolate Cake is served with sorbet on the side for $8 (plus tax and tip). At the Starring Rolls bakery next door, you can get a slice of the same cake (without garnish) for under $3.

• Kona Cafe in the Polynesian Resort serves its Tonga Toast with a side of breakfast meat for $8.99 (plus tax and tip). At Captain Cook's Snack Company nearby, Tonga Toast is served by itself for $4.49 plus tax.

• At Chefs de France in Epcot, you'll pay $10.95 (plus tax & tip) for Quiche Lorraine served with salad and $6.95 (plus tax and tip) for Creme Brulee with a madeleine. At Boulangerie Pattiserie, located in a building behind the restaurant, the quiche without salad is $4.95 plus tax, and the creme brulee by itself is around $4 plus tax.

• If you'd like to try the famous Zebra Domes desserts, you can get them at the rather expensive Boma buffet at Animal Kingdom Lodge ($25.99 for an adult meal), or just buy them a la carte at the Mara food court for $3.69 each. Mara also carries soups that are the same as Boma's, but priced at $2.49 per serving.

• Rose and Crown Pub in Epcot serves fish and chips for $15.99 (plus tax and tip). A smaller portion of the same fish and chips (without a side of peas) can be purchased next door at Yorkshire County Fish Shop for $7.99 plus tax.

Thanks to participants on the DIS Restaurants board for ideas.

Tips & Tricks for Saving in the Parks and Resorts

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Take Advantage of Large Portion Sizes to Cut Costs

Many of the entrees and combo meals served at Walt Disney World restaurants include a large amount of food. If you are not big eaters, consider splitting an entree or combo meal between two people and possibly ordering an extra side dish or appetizer to share. We have done this many times and the server always cheerfully complied. In fact, at sit-down restaurants, usually the split entree was brought out on separate plates for us.

Another good option for light eaters at table service restaurants, and one that works well for someone dining alone, is to substitute an appetizer for your entree. For instance, order two appetizers instead of an appetizer and an entree, or order an appetizer instead of an entree, thus leaving yourself room for dessert. Be sure to inquire about the portion size first -- some appetizers are substantial and filling, but some aren't.

Adults looking for a smaller portion at the counter-service restaurants should not hesitate to order from the kids' menu. No one will know you're ordering the kids meal for an adult! This is not allowed at full-service restaurants, however.

Please note: the "extra bun" tips below worked for years, with the extra bun usually costing 79 or 89 cents, but since 2008 some locations have increased the price of a bun to insane levels, with some locations charging as much as $4 (!), so ask the price first.

• Here's a clever trick light eaters can use at counter-service restaurants at Walt Disney World: order one double cheeseburger combo meal and ask for an extra bun. (The cashiers actually have an "extra bun" button on the register, so this is not an unusual request.) Then take one of the hamburger patties off the double burger, and put it on the extra bun. Most of the counter-service restaurants have a condiment bar where you can add any toppings you like to the two burgers. Split the fries and drink, or order an extra drink. This tip works especially well when you have two small kids who don't eat a lot. Thanks to rams408 for the idea.

• "Extra bun" variations:

  You can split "foot-long" hot dogs using this method. Order an extra bun, cut the hot dog in half and you have two small hot dogs with buns.

  MouseSavers.com reader Don B points out that there is also a "cheese slice" button for 50 cents on the counter service restaurant cash registers. He combined that with the extra bun. He writes, "One of my kids would rather have a cheese sandwich than a $6.09 cheeseburger anyway, so this was a great find.... my son had a nice sandwich with two slices of cheese for $1.79."

Don't Pay For Extras You Don't Want

In the parks, the counter-service menus often list only complete meals, such as a sandwich with fries or fruit, entree with corn on the cob, etc. A little known fact is that you can order anything you want a la carte! If you just want the sandwich, say so. Otherwise you may be paying up to $2 for that side item you don't want. This applies to adult meals only -- kids' meals are only sold as a package.

Here's a related tip: reader Hadley B writes, "The last time we ate at the Backlot Express in Disney's Hollywood Studios I was reeling from the kid's meal prices and asked why they were so expensive at this one place. I was told I could order the same meal without the little plastic souvenir box for $1.50 less. With several kids this adds up fast. My kids were definitely willing to put the money towards an ice cream later in the day rather than have a rather useless plastic box (which would have been a pain to keep up with all day). The cashier told me that any time a counter service kid's meal comes with one of these boxes, ordering without it and saving $1.50 is an option."

Dining Plan

Disney offers a prepaid Dining Plan at Walt Disney World that can be a good value. However, it is ONLY available when you purchase a Magic Your Way vacation package that includes accommodations at a Disney-owned-and-operated hotel plus at least a 1-day theme park ticket per person.

For that reason the Dining Plan option is not available to those booking "room only" reservations or Florida resident room-only discounts.

The only exceptions to the "must buy with a vacation package" rule are:

• Annual Passholders can buy a special package that includes just hotel room and Dining Plan.

• Disney Vacation Club members and their guests, when staying on "points" at a DVC resort, may purchase the Dining Plan. This is arranged through Member Services.

The additional cost for the 2009 Dining Plan (on top of the vacation package) is $39.99 per night per adult or junior (ages 10-17), $10.99 per night for children (ages 3-9). You get one table service meal, one counter service meal and one snack per day. You must purchase the plan for your entire stay and for each person staying in your hotel room.

Click here to learn more about the 2009 Dining Plan, including tips and tricks for maximizing its value.

Meal Vouchers

Walt Disney World meal vouchers (Quick & Casual, Breakfast Feature, Vacation Kingdom Lunch and Vacation Kingdom Dinner) were discontinued as of 12/31/05.

Dining Outside of Disney

If it won't spoil the magic for you, consider eating one or more meals at a nearby but non-Disney restaurant such as the ones in Downtown Disney, the Crossroads Shopping Center or the hotels at Downtown Disney. Often these are substantially cheaper than Disney restaurants, but still have attractive theming and great food.

In the section below are a few locations that I personally recommend because they offer very tasty food at an exceptional value, in what is usually a high-priced resort area.

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Counter Service / Take-Out

Full-Service and Buffet Meals

Ice Cream Deals

Counter Service / Take-Out

There is a great location in Downtown Disney that offers very reasonably priced takeout food (you can eat in the restaurant, as well). Since Downtown Disney has many places to sit and enjoy the view along the lake, this is a nice option on a day when the weather is pleasant.

Earl of Sandwich prices its high-quality, substantial hot sandwiches at $5.75 and meal-sized salads and wraps at $5.95. Kids (or not-too-hungry adults) can easily share one hot sandwich. Desserts and side dishes are reasonably priced. Breakfast sandwiches are only $2.45 -- a total bargain. Drinks are a little pricey, so if you're really watching your pennies, bring your own. It is a strictly counter-service situation with long lines, which fortunately move fast. We love Earl of Sandwich and eat there all the time. Thanks to Shelly C for reminding me about this option.

Additionally, if you will have a car, consider this option:

Panera Bread offers reasonably priced sandwiches (hot and cold), soups and salads, all freshly made. They also have free Wi-Fi, so you can check your e-mail if you have your laptop along. The closest Panera to Disney property is at 8600 Vineland Avenue (near Marriott Village). Call (407) 842-1300 for hours.

Full-Service and Buffet Meals

Be sure to see the printable coupon section and the Entertainment Book section for possible discounts at the restaurants below.

If you're looking for about the cheapest full-service meal around and you're in the mood for burgers and shakes (or a full breakfast), check out Steak n Shake at 12163 S. Apopka-Vineland Road (aka Hwy 535). They have yummy shakes made with real ice cream for under $2.50; full meals with burger, shake and two sides for under $8.00; and breakfasts for under $5.00 (including quite a few priced at $2.50). The 50's diner-style atmosphere is enjoyable. You can read Mike's review of Steak n Shake here.

Another extremely cheap option is Cici's Pizza Buffet. I can give this restaurant only a conditional recommendation. It is super cheap ($5.49 for adults, $3.49 for kids under 10, plus drinks) and filling. The pizza is only so-so, but if you need to feed kids who are not too picky and you want a very low-priced meal out, this is an option. There are two Cici's near Walt Disney World: the better one is located at 8586 Palm Parkway (west of SR 535/Apopka Vineland Road, on the south side of the street). You can read Mike's review of Cici's here.

Sweet Tomatoes is a new addition to the Crossroads Center, which is within walking distance of several of the Downtown Disney hotels at 12561 S. Apopka-Vineland Road (Hwy 535). For a flat rate (Lunch $8.19 Mon-Fri, $8.99 Sat-Sun; Dinner $9.59; drinks extra) you can load up from a huge salad bar plus an all-you-can-eat buffet including many soups, plus muffins, foccacia bread, healthy desserts (frozen yogurt, fruit) and more. This location is very clean and well staffed, with fresh and delicious food. You can read Mike's review of Sweet Tomatoes here.

Bahama Breeze restaurant at 8735 Vineland Avenue (near Marriott Village) serves Caribbean-inspired food in a casual, tropical atmosphere. Everyone I've met who actually lives or works near Walt Disney World has recommended this place to me. I agree -- it's a fun atmosphere and the food is good. Open for lunch and dinner. This place is really popular and they don't take reservations, but they do offer "call ahead seating" (just call when you are on your way). The phone number is (407) 938-9010. Thanks to Jennifer H for additional info.

For a more upscale experience at reasonable prices, check out Seasons 52. It offers a great "night out" for adults. The atmosphere is casually elegant and the food and wine are outstanding. The atmosphere and food quality are at least equal to the best restaurants on Disney property, but the prices are lower. Plus, nothing on the delicious seasonal menu has more than 475 calories! (You'll never notice, believe me -- it doesn't taste like "diet food.") You'll need a car to get to Seasons 52, which is located pretty far north of Disney World at 7700 Sand Lake Road. Call (407) 354-5212 for reservations. You can read Mike's review of this restaurant here.

If you are a serious carnivore, the Brazilian-style churrascaria Texas de Brazil features high-quality meats of all kinds, brought to your table on skewers. It's a fun vacation experience. This is a pricey place (as of fall 2008, $44.99 per person, not including tax, tips, dessert and drinks), but the quality is well worth the money. You'll need a car to get to Texas de Brazil, since it is located up near Universal at 5259 International Drive. Reservations are recommended: call (407) 355-0355. You can read Mike's review of this restaurant here.

Ice Cream Deals

MouseSavers.com reader Terri K has this interesting suggestion: "At the Ghirardelli Soda Fountain in Downtown Disney, my family discovered the Earthquake. We're a family of 6 and each kid wanted a sundae. While looking over the menu on the back I found the Earthquake listed. It's an 8 scoop sundae. Not only can you choose the flavors of ice cream, but also all the toppings. When we figured the cost of 6 individual sundaes, the Earthquake at $24.95 is a real bargain. We all had fun and made a mess at the same time. The kids have so much fun taking a few bites and then turning the dish so they can sample all the flavors. I enjoy the fact that with 8 different flavors everyone gets what they want. My husband enjoys the fact that he doesn't have the cost of 6 individual ice creams."

• MouseSavers.com reader Lynda W reports, "Keep your receipt when you make a purchase at Ghirardelli. There is always a coupon on the bottom of the receipt for 10% off on your next visit to be used for either menu or gift shop items."

Coupons and Special Deals

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Restaurant.com

Save money at some Disney World-area restaurants by purchasing discounted gift certificates from Restaurant.com. Some of the certificates give you 50% off your meal and others are for a specific amount (usually $25) but you get them at a discounted price (usually $12.50 or less).

The Orlando restaurants offered through this program change frequently. I've seen every type of cuisine offered at one time or another -- American, Cuban, Japanese, French, even barbecue! There are usually some restaurants listed in Cocoa Beach, too, which may come in handy if you're taking a Disney Cruise, since the port is nearby.

Restaurant.com certificates are usually valid for a year. You can only use one certificate per restaurant per month (but that means you could use one certificate at each restaurant during your vacation). Occasionally there are other restrictions, so be sure to read the information provided on the site carefully. Some restaurants require you to buy a certain number of entrees, for instance.

The Restaurant.com web site has extensive reviews, photos, menus and other information about the restaurants -- check it out! You can print the certificates out right on your own printer (no need to wait for them to be mailed). No membership fee is required and this site is legit.

Please note: restaurants do occasionally drop out of the program. Be sure to call the restaurant right before you go and reconfirm that it is still participating (or present the certificate when you first arrive, to make sure they will take it). If not, Restaurant.com is very good about allowing you to change the certificate for another restaurant if you call or email their Customer Service.

		Save even more on already discounted gift certificates from Restaurant.com! Enter a promotional code listed below in the field on your shopping cart. Remember to click "Recalculate Total" to apply your savings. Get an extra 70% off already discounted $25 gift certificates at Restaurant.com! Use code DINE. Expires on 11/9/09. Restaurant.com will only sell certificates to US residents. Promo codes cannot be combined with any other discount, rebate or promotion. Savings cannot be applied to the redemption of Mega Certificates or Restaurant.com certificates.

Entertainment Book

The 2010 Orlando Entertainment Book (valid now through 11/1/10) offers discounts of up to 50% off at dozens of restaurants in the Orlando area. The ones that are closest to Walt Disney World include:

• Rainforest Cafe in Downtown Disney and at Animal Kingdom

• Planet Hollywood in Downtown Disney

• Giraffe Cafe at Royal Plaza (Downtown Disney area)

• Traders Island Grill at Best Western Lake Buena Vista (Downtown Disney area)

• The Outback (not part of the restaurant chain) at Buena Vista Palace (Downtown Disney area)

• TGI Friday's in Crossroads Center

• Chevy's Fresh Mex in Crossroads Center

• Qdoba at SR 535 and Palm Parkway

• Steak n Shake on SR 535 just north of Palm Parkway

• Cici's Pizza (multiple locations)

• Domino's Pizza (multiple locations)

Once you have purchased the 2010 Orlando Entertainment Book, be sure to register it online, which will allow you to print out additional coupons.

These restaurant discounts are in addition to the many other discounts on hotel rooms, rental cars and more that are offered by Entertainment Book. (Be sure to check the link above for any current discounts or deals on Entertainment Book.)

Orlando Magicard

The Orlando Magicard provides a number of restaurant discounts. These do change from time to time, but last time I checked they included:

• 20% off your food bill at Garden Grove in the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

• $10 off your guest check of $75 or more at Kimonos in the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

• Some others, mostly along International Drive

Click here to download a FREE Orlando Magicard instantly online.

Kids Eat Free Card

The Kids Eat Free Card may be a good investment if you have young children and plan to eat off Disney property frequently. It provides FREE* kids' meals at over 50 restaurants in the Orlando area. To see a full listing, visit KidsEatFreeCard.com.

*You'll need one card for each child. Each Kids Eat Free Card is valid for one child (11 years of age or younger) and requires that the child be accompanied by one adult paying for a full price entree. So for example, if you have two children, you'd need two cards and two adults buying full price entrees. The Kids Eat Free Card cannot be used with any other discounts or offers.

• Regular price for this card is $19.99, but Undercover Tourist sells it at a discount.

Printable Coupons and Off-Site Restaurant Deals

Quite a few printable coupons that can save you money on off-site restaurants in the Disney World area can be found online. Unless I state otherwise, I have NOT tried these restaurants, so don't take this list as a recommendation. I'm just letting you know what's out there!

		Orlando Coupons MouseSavers.com has partnered with Orlando Coupons to help you save money at a variety of Orlando restaurants, including some at Downtown Disney and Universal. Each listing on the special Orlando Coupons site for MouseSavers.com readers offers detailed information and FREE discount coupons that can be printed instantly. In addition to printable coupons, the Orlando Coupons site allows you to make dinner reservations and book group dinner parties. If you would like to make arrangements for a party of 10 or more, click the "Group Planning" button at the top right of the Orlando Coupons site. Be sure to check out all the great restaurant discount coupons they have available at Orlando Coupons!

Other Coupons and Off-Site Restaurant Deals

• Rainforest Cafe - Print coupon to get $10 off a $25 purchase of food and beverage. Expires 12/31/09. Thanks to Sue Z for info.

• Planet Hollywood - Print coupon to get $5 off a $20 purchase of food, beverage or merchandise. Expires 12/31/09.

• Sweet Tomatoes - Sign up online for their Club Veg to receive coupons by email. Do this less than a week before your trip, because you'll probably get a nice introductory coupon that will expire quickly. Be sure to specify the Lake Buena Vista, FL location since the coupons may be limited to a specific location.

• Steal 'n Shake - Kids eat FREE on weekends. Get one free kids plate for every $8 spent. Saturday and Sunday only. Kids plate excludes drinks and shakes. Children 12 and under. Dine-in only. Also, join the Steak 'n Shake E-Club to get coupons and special offers.

• Texas de Brazil - Sign up online for the eClub and receive occasional e-mails with coupons good for various discounts. You usually will get a 25% off coupon by e-mail within a few days of signing up, but it will have a short expiration date, so don't sign up too early. Less than a week before your trip is ideal.

• Ponderosa Steakhouse - You can print two coupons for this all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant, which has six locations in the Orlando area. One coupon is for "kids eat free" (5 or younger) and the other gives you 10% off an adult lunch or dinner entree.

• Orlando Area McDonalds - Printable coupons include "Kids eat free" (one free child's meal per adult meal purchased); "buy one, get one free" family-sized pizza; free scoop of ice cream when you purchase a sundae. Note that the participating McDonalds do NOT include the two closest to Walt Disney World (at Downtown Disney and near the All-Star resorts).

• IRideTrolley - Printable coupons for restaurants located along the International Drive route that is served by the trolley.

• Orlando Sentinel offers a constantly changing list of coupons. Click on Restaurants to see the current list.

• The Crab House - Kids 10 and under eat FREE on Wednesdays from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the 8496 Palm Parkway location. No coupon required, but I recommend calling them at (407) 239-1888 to make sure the offer is still going.

• Denny's - Sign up for Denny's Breakfast Club. In a day or two you'll get a coupon for 20% off. The coupon expires about 2 weeks after you receive it, so don't do this until right before you leave on your trip!

Birnbaum's Walt Disney World Guidebook

Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2010 has a meal coupon in the back for 15% off food at House of Blues at Downtown Disney. Valid for up to 8 guests at lunch or dinner. Excludes alcohol, tax and gratuity. Expires 12/20/10.

Membership Discounts

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Disney World Annual Passholders

Restaurant Discounts

10% off of food and non-alcoholic beverages at selected Walt Disney World resort hotel table service locations during various meal periods (see below), Monday through Friday, for Passholder and up to three guests. Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463) for reservations. Lunch hours vary by location; ask at time of booking. Participating locations:

• Captain's Grille (formerly Yacht Club Galley) at Disney's Yacht Club Resort (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

• ESPN Club at Disney's BoardWalk Resort (lunch only)

• Grand Floridian Cafe at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort (breakfast and lunch)

• Olivia's Cafe at Disney's Old Key West Resort (breakfast, lunch and dinner)

• Sand Trap Bar & Grill at Disney's Bonnet Creek Golf Club (lunch only)

• Spoodles at Disney's BoardWalk Resort (breakfast only)

• Trail's End Buffeteria at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort (breakfast and lunch)

• The Wave at Disney's Contemporary Resort (breakfast and lunch)

• Whispering Canyon Cafe at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort (breakfast and lunch)

10% off of food and non-alcoholic beverages at selected Epcot table service locations during lunch hours, Monday through Friday, for Passholder and up to three guests. Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463) for reservations. Lunch hours vary by location; ask at time of booking. Participating locations:

• Coral Reef Restaurant

• Chefs de France Restaurant

• Nine Dragons Restaurant

• Restaurant Marrakesh

• San Angel Inn

• Teppan Edo

• Tokyo Dining

• Tutto Italia

10% off of food and non-alcoholic beverages at selected theme park quick service locations during various meal periods (see below), Monday through Friday, for Passholder and up to three guests. Call (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463) for reservations. Lunch hours vary by location; ask at time of booking. Participating locations:

• Studio Catering Company at Disney's Hollywood Studios (all day)

• Noodle Station at Magic Kingdom (lunch only - open seasonally)

• Yak & Yeti restaurant in Disney's Animal Kingdom Park (lunch and dinner, table service only)

• Rainforest Cafe in Disney's Animal Kingdom park (breakfast, lunch and dinner, discount on entree only)

Discounts at Downtown Disney dining locations:

• Fulton's Crab House - 20% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages at lunch or 10% off at dinner, for Passholder and up to three guests. Reservations are available by calling (407) 934-2628 or (407) WDW-DINE.

• Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop - 10% off chocolate treats and soda fountain creations

• House of Blues restaurant - 20% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages before 4:00 pm, or 10% off after 4:00 pm, for Passholder and up to five guests.

• Planet Hollywood - 10% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages, for Passholder and up to three guests.

• Portobello Yacht Club - 20% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages at lunch or 10% off at dinner, for Passholder and up to three guests. Reservations are available by calling (407) 934-8888 or (407) WDW-DINE.

• Rainforest Cafe - 10% off entrees at lunch and dinner, for Passholder and up to 3 guests. Reservations are available by calling (407) 827-8500.

• Wolfgang Puck Cafe - 20% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages at lunch or 10% off at dinner. Valid for Passholder and up to three guests. Reservations are available by calling (407) 938-9653.

• Wolfgang Puck Express - 10% off on food and non-alcoholic beverages at breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Valid for Passholder and up to three guests.

Tables in Wonderland (aka Disney Dining Experience) - Walt Disney World Annual Passholders, regardless of residency, are eligible for membership in the Tables in Wonderland program for $75 per year. The primary benefit of membership is a 20% discount on all food and beverages at participating resort hotel and theme park restaurants (valid for a party of up to 10). Membership also includes complimentary resort and theme park parking for dining, as well as invitations to special member-only events.

Florida Residents

Florida Residents can purchase a membership in the Tables in Wonderland (aka Disney Dining Experience) program for $100 per year. The primary benefit of membership is a 20% discount on all food and beverages at participating resort hotel and theme park restaurants (valid for a party of up to 10). Membership also includes complimentary resort and theme park parking for dining, as well as invitations to special member-only events.

Rainforest Cafe Safari Club

Join the Rainforest Cafe Safari Club and save at the Rainforest Cafes at Downtown Disney and Animal Kingdom. It costs $15 to join and you can enroll at any Rainforest Cafe. You'll receive a $10 New Member Award in the mail with your membership card. Your benefits include priority seating and 10% off up to four entrees (not meals) OR one free Chef’s appetizer of the day per table (with the purchase of an adult entrée) every time you visit the Rainforest Cafe. The 10% entree discount also extends to other Landry’s owned restaurants such as T-Rex, Landry's and The Crab House. Throughout the year you will receive various coupons by email. Members also receive 10% off any retail purchase.

Planet Hollywood VIP Pass

Planning to eat at Planet Hollywood in Downtown Disney? Avoid the lines to get in by buying a VIP Pass for $10. The pass counts as a $10 credit towards your meal, so it effectively costs you nothing while saving you time.

Each member of your party must have their own pass to enjoy the benefits. The cost of the voucher is a credit towards your meal. The pass is not valid towards gratuity or merchandise.

• Undercover Tourist sells the Planet Hollywood VIP Pass.

Levy Preferred Frequent Dining Program

Levy Restaurants operates three of the Downtown Disney restaurants: Fulton’s Crab House, Portobello Yacht Club and Wolfgang Puck Cafe. You can sign up for their free Levy Preferred Frequent Dining Program online. Then present your membership card each time you eat at a participating restaurant. You will receive 1 point for every dollar you spend (gratuity excluded). For every $250 you spend at any of their participating restaurants (not just the Downtown Disney locations -- they have restaurants around the US), you’ll receive a $25 dining certificate on the spot, valid towards your next dining experience.

AAA

In the past, most of the Swan and Dolphin hotel restaurants used to give you a 20% discount if you showed your AAA (Automobile Club) membership card. (The Swan/Dolphin restaurants that NEVER offered this discount were bluezoo, Il Mulino and Shula's.) However, as of 2009, the Swan/Dolphin restaurants may no longer be offering AAA discounts. It appears to depend on who you ask. Some people have gotten discounts in 2009, while others have been turned down. The Swan/Dolphin restaurants are no longer listed on the AAA "show your card and save" list, so I think you can consider yourself lucky if you receive this discount.

MouseSavers.com reader Jessica C reports that as of late August 2008, she was able to get a 20% discount at Earl of Sandwich with her AAA card.

Save on Beverages

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Bottled Water

You will need to drink a lot of water when you are at Walt Disney World. It's very hot and humid for most of the year, and you'll be walking great distances. This can add up to dehydration all too easily. Unfortunately, a lot of people don't like the taste of the tap water in Orlando. I am among them -- I find it musty-tasting and unpleasant, though I will drink it if necessary.

That means you're stuck with bottled water, which is widely sold throughout the theme parks -- for about $2.50 a bottle! So here's the #1 savings tip for beverages at Walt Disney World: bring in your own water! Disney allows it, and you will save a small fortune. One option is to stop at one of the local supermarkets or drug stores and pick up a case of bottled water after you arrive. Obviously this is no problem if you have a rental car. Most of the limo companies will make a short stop for you, as well. If you will be using a shuttle service, about your only option is to buy the water in your hotel's shop, which may be slightly cheaper. It's a good idea to put your bottled water on ice (get some from your hotel's ice machine) overnight and take it with you into the parks each day.

		Want a cheaper and more environmentally friendly solution? Get a reusable bottle that comes with a filter, and fill it from drinking fountains or restroom sinks in the parks. MouseSavers.com reader Nicole R has made me aware of a water filtration bottle that will filter up to 75 gallons of water. It costs about $10, which means it will pay for itself in four uses!

You can buy a reusable bottle strap in all of the theme parks for about $3, which makes it easy to carry your water bottle over your shoulder.

MouseSavers.com reader Thomas M has this hint if you're in the Magic Kingdom: "In front of Guest Services on Main Street, there are two water fountains. The fountain on the left hand side is filtered much better and tastes much like bottled water. You can often see cast members filling water bottles when on break."

MouseSavers.com reader Dave H offers this suggestion: "Camelbak hydration packs... come in lots of sizes and styles, some as just a hydration pack, some as backpacks too! You fill them with ice from the hotel in the morning, it melts as the day goes on and you sip ice cold water off the attached tubing all day. You can even change it up to juices or cool aid if you want! It worked out great for our family of 4..." [Mary's note: Camelbaks are often available at great prices through Sierra Trading Post.]

FREE Ice Water (and How to Make It Drinkable)

If you don't mind the taste of the local water, reader Jen M points out that "all of the counter service restaurants in the theme parks give out FREE ice water! I discovered this gem while my hubby (and all of the money) was on Buzz Lightyear with my son and I was dying of thirst. I walked into Cosmic Ray's and asked if it was possible to get a cup of ice water. No problem at all! They even gave me a large cup! From then on, it was ice water for my family - which was not a hardship because we got tired of carbonated drinks quickly! At $2 to $4 a pop - that savings added up quickly!"

If you hate the taste of the tap water at Walt Disney World, consider carrying some small packets of sweetened Kool-Aid or Crystal Light with you and adding those to your cup of free ice water. Another good option: Lipton Cold Brew tea bags. Thanks to Dwayne O and Marjorie T for ideas.

MouseSavers.com reader Kellie B suggest bringing tea bags or hot cocoa packets into the parks during the colder months. She was able to get FREE hot water at the counter service restaurants in the theme parks.

Refillable Mugs

All of the Disney resorts offer refillable insulated mugs for $13.99 plus tax. For the rest of your stay, refills on coffee, sodas (Coca-Cola products), iced tea and sometimes cocoa are FREE. (Milk and juice are NOT included.) If you are staying for a week or so and you drink a lot of coffee or soft drinks, this can save you quite a bit of money. These mugs can be used only at your "home" resort, not in the theme parks.

Animal Kingdom offers refillable cups with animal head tops. Purchase one for $6.79 plus tax and refills are just $1.00. This may be a seasonal promotion. Thanks to David T for info.

The Disney water parks sell refillable mugs for around $11. Refills of sodas are free that same day. If you return on another day you can purchase a sticker for $6 that reactivates the mug. The mugs for the two water parks are considered interchangeable, so you could go to Typhoon Lagoon one day and buy a mug, then go to Blizzard Beach the next day and take that mug (you'd have to purchase the discounted sticker to activate the mug on the second day, though). Thanks to David T for info.

None of the other Disney theme parks offer refillable mugs.

Refillable Drinks

Two Epcot restaurants offer self-serve soft drinks, so you can go back and get refills without paying extra: the Electric Umbrella (in Future World) and Sunshine Seasons (in The Land).

The Contempo Cafe in the Contemporary Resort started offering self-serve soft drinks, so you can go back and get refills without paying extra.

Backlot Express in Disney's Hollywood Studios has two self-serve soft drink locations.

As far as I know, these are the only counter-service restaurants at Disney World theme parks that are currently offering self-service sodas. Thanks to Christopher L, Joe M and Debbie C for info.

Buy Beverages in Alternate Locations

If you are staying at a Disney resort, it's cheaper to buy milk in the hotel shops than in the food courts. If you have kids who drink a lot of milk, you may find you're better off buying milk in the shop and carrying it into the food court with you.

Similarly, when staying at one of the Disney resorts, instead of buying a beer at the pool bar, you can usually buy one for less at the resort shop, though if it's bottled you'll have to transfer the contents into a plastic cup or mug because they don't allow bottles by the pool.

Eat Breakfast in Your Hotel 

It's expensive to eat a full breakfast in the parks. And many people find that their over-excited kids are much more focused on going to see Mickey than they are on eating breakfast -- making a restaurant breakfast a real waste. So one easy way to save is to eat breakfast at your hotel.

Another advantage of the eat-breakfast-in-your-hotel strategy is that it allows you to "hit the road" earlier and get to the parks before the crowds arrive!

If you are two adults who don't normally eat a big breakfast, and the hotel offers free coffee in the room -- almost all hotels (except for Disney's Value Resorts) do provide a coffee maker and filter packets of coffee, these days -- you can just buy or bring along some breakfast rolls or donuts and call it "Continental breakfast."

MouseSavers.com reader Lynn H from Westford, Massachusetts offers these additional hints: "Families might like to know that boxes of milk (both white and chocolate) that don't need refrigeration are usually located by the box juices in grocery stores. Sometimes they have a very small shelf space [so you'll] need to hunt for them among all the juice. I put cereals like Golden Grahams that are good for snacking... in baggies for less bulky packing. More than once my son has eaten his breakfast cereal from a styrofoam cup with box milk. It saved us 45 minutes over a sit-down restaurant... [plus] starting the day with a familar food and routine for small children is invaluable."

Of course, your coffee maker can be used for more than coffee. You can run it to make hot water for tea, hot chocolate, etc. Some people even get creative and use the hot water they make in their coffee maker for "instant" items such as hot oatmeal.

Those with bigger appetites, or who are traveling with kids, may want to choose a hotel that offers a refrigerator in the room, or inquire whether your hotel will provide one for a small fee. All of Disney's Moderate, Deluxe and Disney Vacation Club resorts include a refrigerator (a mini-fridge in the hotel rooms and studios; a full-size fridge in the villas). The Disney Value resorts charge $10 plus tax per day to supply a mini-refrigerator.

If you are staying at a Value resort or at a non-Disney hotel that does not provide a fridge, MouseSavers reader Lori R. suggests buying a portable electric refrigerator/cooler that plugs into a car lighter or into the wall. If you are driving, this is handy for the trip and then you can use it in your hotel room, too.

For that matter, an inexpensive styrofoam cooler can serve the same purpose. However, in my experience, you will need to fill it twice a day with ice from the hotel's ice machine, and I wouldn't trust it with anything perishable for very long. I have put a pint of milk or bottles of water on ice this way. Also, coolers tend to "sweat" heavily because of the high humidity in Florida air. Don't leave one sitting on the carpet in your room, or you may end up soaking the carpet. It's better to leave your cooler in the bathtub.

Some hotels -- such as many all-suite hotels and the Disney Vacation Club resorts -- offer a small microwave. That gives you even more breakfast options, such as hot cereals, and allows you to warm up sweet rolls, etc.

Another option, if you don't feel like eating in your room, is to look for hotels that offer packages including a free breakfast. DoubleTree Guest Suites in Downtown Disney and the hotels in Marriott Village often offer such packages. Buena Vista Suites always includes a full buffet breakfast.

Making Your Own Meals on Vacation - With Minimal Drudgery

Some all-suite hotels and all of the Disney Vacation Club resorts offer microwaves and refrigerators, or even full kitchens, which means you have many "do it yourself" meal options. Making meals at your hotel may not be very relaxing, however, unless you plan ahead to reduce the hassle of shopping, cooking, and cleaning up. It's your vacation, after all!

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Light Meals Without Cooking

Even if you don't have kitchen facilities, it's possible to create some light meals and snacks in your hotel room. If you do not have a kitchen in your room, however, I strongly discourage using any appliance that produces high heat, such as a toaster or tabletop grill. Using such appliances is a serious fire hazard and can endanger you, your family and other guests in the hotel. It can also produce cooking smells that your neighbors (and the people who stay in the room after you) won't appreciate. Suites that include kitchens have the properly-rated electrical outlets, ventilation systems and most importantly, fire extinguishers! Regular hotel rooms do not. If the hotel catches you with unauthorized cooking equipment, you may be asked to leave.

See the section above for some easy breakfast ideas.

MouseSavers.com reader Teri M from Newton, Kansas shares how she fed six people very inexpensively during a trip to Walt Disney World: "... to save money I packed many non-perishable food items. What we found to be very good was the jar of peanut butter! The hotel we stayed at had free apples at the check-in counter. In the mornings we would spread peanut butter on the apples for a yummy breakfast. I had granola bars, mini packages of cookies and crackers, gum, beef sticks, etc. that were nutritional and easy to pack. It is also a good idea to plan to pack good treats for the plane trip as the airlines do not feed you on the trip anymore and the airports serve very expensive food."

How to Bring Food With You

If you are thinking about bringing food from home, be aware that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) suggests that you do not put dense food items (such as peanut butter, chocolate bars, etc) in your checked luggage. The automated bomb-detection equipment tends to give false positives on such items. Your luggage is much more likely to be opened and searched outside of your presence if you check food items. Thanks to Mary S for the reminder.

A better bet is to ship non-perishable food items in advance to your hotel. Disney resorts will hold packages for you without charge; if you are staying at a non-Disney hotel, be sure to call and inquire first. Address the package as follows:

Hold for guest: (write the full name under which you made the reservation)
Check in date: (insert date)
Hotel's name and address (which will appear on your confirmation form)

You may want to check into getting your package delivered by FedEx Ground, which is frequently about the same price as sending a large box by USPS. If you decide to use FedEx, put the same info listed above on the box, but address it to:

1701 West Buena Vista Drive
Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Phone: 407-939-5000

An easy and inexpensive way to get non-perishable food items is to order them through Amazon.com, which carries over 10,000 bulk-pack grocery products (including individual serving containers of cereal, granola bars, boxed milk that doesn't require refrigeration until opened, and lots more). Amazon.com offers FREE shipping on grocery orders of $25 or more -- just follow the information above to have the order sent to your hotel.

Thanks to Michael F for additional info.

Buying Groceries When You Arrive

If you will have a car (or are willing to pay for a taxi), there are plenty of supermarkets near Walt Disney World -- click here to see more information.

If you won't have a car while on vacation -- or you just don't want to spend your vacation in the supermarket -- there are ways you can get some groceries without hassles:

• Pre-Order and Pick Up - The Albertson's supermarket at 12981 S. Orange Blossom Trail (Orange Blossom Trail exit from SR 417) will allow you to fax a list to them at (407) 857-0132. They will have your order packed and ready to pick up! You can call them at (407) 857-5666 for hours and details. (If you use Happy Limo to get from the airport to your hotel or condo, you can request a grocery stop on the way, and they do use this Albertson's.)

• Shopping & Delivery Services - Two companies in the Orlando area will do your shopping for you and deliver the groceries to your hotel for a fee. They are Garden Grocer and WeGoShop. I have not used either service, so I can't vouch for them.

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