Dining question related spec to dvc About This Page:

[trixiedixie]

I know Disney is giving us a break on dining plans and not increasing our prices during summer on the plans themselves -
Question is...if we decide to forgo a plan and pay for it - do we pay the regular prices or the new seasonal pricing as All Ears has on their menus?

(can you tell Im comparing costs to see if I really "save" on the dining plan?)

[Dreaming of DisneyWorld]

I wasn't aware of a break for DVC owners purchasing the dining plan. Can you elaborate? We have the TIW card. Yes, it takes a while to recoup your money, but we like to eat at signature restaurants. That helps us reach the $375 break even point a little quicker, plus TIW gives us a lot more flexibility than the dining plan. That is especially helpful when we have a full kitchen at the resort.

[trixiedixie]

Originally Posted by Dreaming of DisneyWorld

I wasn't aware of a break for DVC owners purchasing the dining plan. Can you elaborate? We have the TIW card. Yes, it takes a while to recoup your money, but we like to eat at signature restaurants. That helps us reach the $375 break even point a little quicker, plus TIW gives us a lot more flexibility than the dining plan. That is especially helpful when we have a full kitchen at the resort.

It isnt much of a break - This is the first year Disney is increasing plan rates and meal rates for summer. Disney has told DVC that we will pay the regular plan rate.
Example pg 219 Passporter 2010:
Basic Dining Plan: 41.99 adult vs. 47.99 adult during summer

My question is whether we will get same break when buying meals ie Tusker House Lunch 20.23 adult vs. 24.49 adult during summer.......

I rather doubt it but I thought Id ask.....

TIW is another option...im trying to make an excel program to help figure it out...TIW basically pays an 18% tip and gives you a savings of 2%.....I havent been sold on it yet, but I have very limited experience with it.
Thanks!

[rescuesk]

You're talking about out of pocket expenses vs the dining plan? I think the discount, or savings, will only apply to the plan, not individual meals. You still will have the opportunity to use whatever DVC discounts might be available at that time on meals (usually 10% on some lunches, etc.)

Frankly, I'm surprised that DVC is holding the line on the DDP prices, too.

[MelissaL]

I don't know for sure, but I really doubt simply being a DVC member would let you avoid seasonal pricing. As Sue said above, some restaurants do give a discount to DVC members, but most buffets do not. There's a list on the DVC member website.

The Tables in Wonderland card gives a 2% discount only if you would otherwise tip nothing. If you would normally tip 18%, it really is a 20% discount; if you'd normally tip 15%, it's still about a 15% discount. So, if you have an annual pass and would spend at least $375 at 18% tip, or slightly more with a lower tip, it's a good deal.

Happy planning,
Melissa

[DVCBird941]

DW and I have used the TiW card for many years. Last year we tried the dinning plan. Even though we DID save $$, I dont think we would do it again. With the way we eat, we can save more $$ using the TiW card. Typically we eat apps, not desserts which are included in the DDP, and we usually have a cocktail too. Using the TiW we get 20% off the entire bill, then they add in an automatic 18% gratuity. So you really get the tip paid and 2% off the meal. The card is good for one year, so you can plan your trips to get 2 uses out of it. You will need to spend $375 to have the card pay for its initial $75 cost. Anything over that is

If you are the type of person who rarely orders apps and alcohol then the DDP may be a better deal, otherwise TiW can save you a ton too.

Another note...to get the maximum value out of the DDP you "should" eat mostly dinners and try to order the most expensive thing on the menu. With the TiW you get the same 20% when eating breakfast,lunch or dinner, so you can save even more $$ by eating table service lunches.

[trixiedixie]

Originally Posted by DVCBird941

DW and I have used the TiW card for many years. Last year we tried the dinning plan. Even though we DID save $$, I dont think we would do it again. With the way we eat, we can save more $$ using the TiW card. Typically we eat apps, not desserts which are included in the DDP, and we usually have a cocktail too. Using the TiW we get 20% off the entire bill, then they add in an automatic 18% gratuity. So you really get the tip paid and 2% off the meal. The card is good for one year, so you can plan your trips to get 2 uses out of it. You will need to spend $375 to have the card pay for its initial $75 cost. Anything over that is

If you are the type of person who rarely orders apps and alcohol then the DDP may be a better deal, otherwise TiW can save you a ton too.

Another note...to get the maximum value out of the DDP you "should" eat mostly dinners and try to order the most expensive thing on the menu. With the TiW you get the same 20% when eating breakfast,lunch or dinner, so you can save even more $$ by eating table service lunches.

EXCELLENT INFORMATION
THANK YOU!!!

[M5ward]

We find the TiW card far more practical for us. We aren't big fans of counter service; we eat primarily TS meals and a few buffets. Since we usually travel with one of our kids and their family, the card pays for itself quickly. We also like appetizers with our meals as well as an adult beverage (me) or two..or...