Dewayne Bevil Sentinel Staff Writer
Disney World has introduced another way to make on-the-go dinner reservations at its theme parks and resort restaurants. Strolling through Magic Kingdom but wondering what's available for dining in Epcot tonight? You're now able to use an
iPhone, Android or Blackberry Smartphone to check the options and make reservations.
This development is an extension of the online dining reservation system launched in May, says Heather Caplinger, senior product manager for
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts Online. Since then, the site has been optimized for use with those specific phones.
"We give them more ways to search for available table service restaurants, and also more time to choose from," Caplinger says. "It was all about providing the guests with more options."
It's not an application. Potential diners with iPhones, Androids or Blackberrys merely steer their devices' web browsers to www.disneyworld.com/dining.
"It's our true availability at that time," Caplinger says.
It won't result in instant seating. Disney requires reservations be made at least an hour in advance of the desired seating time. But maybe it will help get last-minute diners some choices in a tight situation. Many Disney reservations are snapped up by visitors who know where they want to eat on Disney property long before they arrive. Reservations can be secured 180 days in advance, but locals are less likely to know their dining desires that far out.
"They [reservations] do fill up quickly," Caplinger says. But there are late cancellations.
"Guests who weren't unable to get availability or just didn't book in advance … can quickly make reservations and check table-service availability in the park."
