*Special Diets* - useful information

[Clare]

Eating out with dietary restrictions can be a daunting thought, particularly if you're newly diagnosed, but the great thing about eating out in Florida, particularly Disney restaurants, is you can eat 'normally' and have meals tailored to your individual needs.

Where to begin?
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All Disney table service restaurants cater for guests with 'special diets', from gluten free to lactose intolerant, if there's nothing on the menu you like most will make something specifically for you, although some restaurants are better at this than others.

At the time of making your ADRs have your dietary requests noted, if online there is a 'add dietary requests' section, if making your ADRs over the phone ask the operator to note your special dining needs.

It's also a good idea to email the Special Diets department at Disney after you have made your ADRs (just in case there's any problems when making your ADRs) with the ADR confirmation number, restaurant and date/time you're dining, they will pass this directly onto the restaurant(s).

Contact information:

SpecialDiets@DisneyWorld.com

Tel: 001 407 824-5967, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday - Friday (US time)

When you arrive at the restaurant mention to the cast member checking you in of your dining requirements, your dietary needs should be noted on the slip of paper they hand to your server (for example, mine usually says gluten free), mention it again to your server when you are seated at your table, some servers automatically pick up on the note on the slip of paper, but some don't, so it's always best to mention.

Your server will usually call a chef out to talk to you, but some servers have a very good knowledge and will talk you through the menu themselves. If a chef does come out to talk to you, they will run you through what's on the menu, and sometimes say if there's nothing you fancy on the menu they will 'custom' something for you. Don't be afraid to ask for something if you don't like what's offered on the menu.

At buffet restaurants the chef will walk you around the buffet advising what you can and can't have.

I'm a coeliac (gluten free) and have had some fabulous meals at Disney, it's the little touches that are nice such as bringing out gluten free bread/rolls (usually tapioca rolls) at the same time as your dining companions have their 'normal' bread.

You can also contact Special Diets to ask where to eat counter service, they will send you a list of up to date counter service restaurants and what is available, specific to your diet. Most counter service locations will offer something for you.

Also, most counter service locations will prepare your food in a special designated 'allergy' area, it will be prepared and cooked in that area, it may take a little longer but you know what you are eating will be 'safe' for you. When you arrive at the counter service location, just mention to the CM taking your order you have a dining allergy and someone will then come over to see you and take your order.

* Please feel free to add any information on any diets, I'll start the ball rolling with gluten free *