Good morning everyone — we hope your week is off to a magical start.
It’s been a busy week in the world of Disney, with the big news that Free Dining is returning to Walt Disney World for select travel dates in 2026.
Since so many of our readers spend extra time planning the dining portion of their trips (especially when managing food allergies), this is a deal you’ll definitely want to know about.
We’ll also take a quick look at the new restaurants opening at Disney World in 2026, so you know what new dining options may be on your radar for future trips.
And we’re excited to introduce a new segment: Food Allergy Tip of the Week. Today’s tip is one of the most important — and probably the one we find ourselves repeating the most.
Disney News
Free Dining Is Back!
One of the most anticipated Disney promotions is officially returning.
Disney just announced that Free Dining is coming back to Walt Disney World for select travel dates in 2026, and for many families it can mean hundreds (sometimes thousands) of dollars in savings on meals during a trip.
But as always, there are a few important details to understand — especially if you're traveling with food allergies.
Disney News
New Restaurants In 2026
Between Disney World and Disney Land, there are a total of 8 new restaurants opening in 2026. Click the link below for a full breakdown of every new restaurant.
Six Ravens is a highly anticipated and savory concept coming to Disney Springs from the creators of Gideon’s Bakehouse.
Instead of cookies and desserts, this location will focus on savory items like stuffed breads called “Coffyns,” smashed potatoes, and other rotating menu items created in collaboration with local Orlando chefs. Disney has not announced an official opening date yet, but the restaurant is expected to open sometime in 2026.
⚠️ Food Allergy Warning
Many of the new restaurants coming to Disney Springs and Downtown Disney are third-party operated, meaning they are run by outside restaurant groups rather than Disney itself. While these locations will often work with guests to accommodate food allergies, their procedures may not always be as standardized as Disney-owned restaurants.
Food Allergy Tip Of The Week
Speak With A Chef!
If you have a food allergy, always ask to speak with a chef or allergy-trained Cast Member when ordering. While Disney provides allergy-friendly menus, they don’t always show every option that can safely be prepared. A chef can walk through ingredients, preparation methods, and often create modified dishes that aren’t listed on the allergy menu.
For example, an allergy menu might flag a burger as unsafe for a dairy allergy because it comes with cheese — but a chef can easily prepare the same burger without cheese and with safe ingredients. Taking a moment to speak with the chef helps ensure your meal is both safe and customized for your allergy.
Community Corner
See what our community is talking about
Here are some of the most talked about topics from our Facebook Group this week. Join our Facebook Group below to check out all of these posts and more!
Space 220
Members posted about recent positive experiences dining at Space 220 despite being owned by a 3rd party.
Allergy Friendly Snacks
We shared some great allergy friendly snacks found on property including Partake Foods products!
Sci Fi Drive In Theater
Members of our community also shared great experiences they had at the Sci Fi Drive In Theater in Hollywood Studios. This is one of our all time favorites at Disney World!
One final note
Thank you!
“See ya real soon!” - Mickey Mouse
Until next time,
The Disney Food Allergy Group