Is food and drink included when you stay at the Contemporary Resort?

It’s a fair question—especially when you’re investing in one of Disney’s deluxe resorts. The answer, however, isn’t as simple as yes or no. Here’s everything you need to know, including what is included, what isn’t, and how you can still enjoy food perks during your stay.

Is Contemporary Disney Resort Food and Drinks Included?

The short answer to the question “Is Contemporary Disney Resort Food and Drinks Included?” is No. Food and drinks are not included in the standard room rate at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. However, there are optional upgrades like the Disney Dining Plan and Club-Level accommodations that can include meals, snacks, and beverages.

Now, let’s dig into the most common questions and explain how food and drink options work at this iconic Disney hotel.

Also Read: Which Fruit is Not Allowed on Flights? A Comprehensive Guide

What’s Included at Disney’s Contemporary Resort? (Detailed Breakdown)

Whether you’re a first-timer or a Disney veteran, understanding what’s actually included in your stay at the Contemporary Resort can help you plan smarter—especially when it comes to meals and refreshments. Below is a complete breakdown of what you can expect in terms of food, drink, and dining convenience.

1. Standard Room Inclusions

If you’ve booked a regular room—whether a Garden Wing or Tower room—your reservation includes the essentials, but does not cover meals or drinks beyond basic in-room amenities.

Here’s what comes standard:

• Coffee and tea setup: Each room is equipped with a coffee maker and complimentary packets of coffee and tea.
• Beverage cooler: While not a full minibar or fridge, the cooler can hold snacks and drinks you bring or purchase.
• Access to refill stations: If you buy a refillable resort mug (or receive one via a Dining Plan), you can use it at beverage refill stations within the resort.

Important Note: All meals, snacks, and drinks—whether at quick-service or table-service restaurants—must be paid for separately unless you purchase the Disney Dining Plan or book a Club-Level room.

2. Disney Dining Plan (Optional Add-On)

The Disney Dining Plan is not included by default but can be added to your vacation package (room + park tickets). It’s an ideal solution for guests who want to prepay for meals and simplify budgeting.

There are two primary plan options:

1. Quick-Service Dining Plan

• 2 Quick-Service meals per guest, per night
• 1 Snack or non-alcoholic beverage per guest, per night
• 1 Resort-refillable mug for unlimited refills at any Disney Resort drink station

2. Disney Dining Plan

• 1 Quick-Service meal and 1 Table-Service meal per guest, per night
• 1 Snack or non-alcoholic drink per guest, per night
• 1 Refillable mug per guest

Both plans include non-alcoholic beverages and, for guests 21 and older, one alcoholic drink with meals at participating locations. These plans can be used not only at the Contemporary but also across Walt Disney World Resort, including in the parks.

3. Club-Level Rooms (Includes Complimentary Food & Beverages)

Guests looking for extra convenience and perks may consider upgrading to a Club-Level room, which provides exclusive access to the Club Lounge, a private hospitality area within the resort.

Here’s what Club-Level guests enjoy daily:

• Continental breakfast: Includes pastries, fresh fruit, cereals, yogurt, and juices.
• Midday snacks: Think chips, cookies, trail mix, and grab-and-go items.
• Evening appetizers: Light hors d’oeuvres like cheese, crackers, dips, and small bites.
• Wine and beer: Complimentary alcoholic beverages are available during evening service.
• Nighttime desserts and cordials: A sweet way to wind down after a long park day.

Club-Level service offers just enough to keep you fueled between meals without needing a full dining plan—perfect for guests who prefer grazing over full meals.

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4. On-Site Dining Options (Paid Separately)

While food isn’t bundled into your room rate, the Contemporary Resort is a culinary hotspot in its own right. Here are the must-try dining options available just steps from your room:

California Grill

• Located on the 15th floor with sweeping views of Magic Kingdom and the nightly fireworks.
• Offers seasonal gourmet dishes, a robust wine list, and a premium dining experience.
• Advance reservations are strongly recommended.

Chef Mickey’s

• Iconic character buffet dining with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, and friends.
• Open for breakfast and dinner, it’s a great option for families looking to combine food with fun.
• Expect classic American fare with a lively, all-ages atmosphere.

Steakhouse 71

• A tribute to Disney’s founding year (1971), this stylish spot serves steaks, sandwiches, and comfort food.
• Offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a relaxed but upscale setting.

Contempo Café

• Ideal for quick bites before or after a park visit.
• Menu includes flatbreads, salads, sandwiches, desserts, and kid-friendly options.
• You can use dining plan quick-service credits here if applicable.

Bars & Lounges

These venues are perfect for unwinding in the evening or enjoying a pre-dinner drink.

Outer Rim Lounge: A laid-back bar with views of Bay Lake and a solid cocktail menu.

California Grill Lounge: Casual seating with full access to the California Grill menu (great if you didn’t snag a reservation).

Does the Disney Dining Plan apply to the Contemporary Resort?

Yes—but it’s optional.
If you’re looking for an “all-inclusive” feel, the Disney Dining Plan might be worth considering. You can add it when you book your vacation package (hotel + park tickets). Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Quick-Service Dining Plan:
  Includes 2 quick-service meals, 1 snack or non-alcoholic drink per night, and a refillable resort mug.
• Disney Dining Plan:
  Includes 1 quick-service meal, 1 table-service meal, 1 snack or drink per night, and a refillable mug.

These prepaid meal plans can save you money if you’re dining frequently in the parks and resorts—but keep in mind, they’re not automatically included with your room.

Are there any rooms where food is included?

Yes—Club-Level rooms.
If you book a Club-Level room at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, you’ll get access to the Club Lounge, where complimentary food and beverages are offered throughout the day:

• Continental Breakfast (think pastries, fruit, coffee, juice)
• Midday Snacks (granola bars, chips, cookies)
• Evening Hors d’oeuvres and alcoholic beverages
• Desserts and cordials at night

It’s not a full meal replacement, but it’s a great perk if you want a more inclusive experience without purchasing the dining plan.

Summary: What You Really Get

Feature	Included in Standard Room?	Notes
Breakfast		Available for purchase at on-site restaurants
Food & Drinks (General)		Pay-as-you-go unless using dining plan or Club-Level benefits
Disney Dining Plan	Optional	Must be purchased with a vacation package
Club-Level Complimentary Food	With Upgrade	Includes breakfast, snacks, and evening drinks in private lounge
Refillable Mug	With Dining Plan	Free refills at any Disney resort quick-service station

Final Thoughts

While Disney’s Contemporary Resort doesn’t offer complimentary food and drinks by default, you have plenty of options to customise your experience:

• Want full flexibility? Skip the dining plan and pay as you go.
• Prefer prepaid simplicity? Add the Disney Dining Plan to your vacation package.
• Love convenience and light bites? Book a Club-Level room for daily snacks and drinks.

No matter which route you choose, you’ll have access to some of the best dining Disney has to offer—all just steps from your room.

Still Planning Your Stay?

If you’re trying to decide whether to book Club-Level, add a Dining Plan, or just enjoy the restaurants a la carte, it comes down to your travel style. For families on-the-go, a quick-service plan might be enough. For foodies, California Grill is a must. And for those who like comfort and convenience, Club-Level might be the perfect upgrade.

Pro Tip: Make dining reservations early—especially for Chef Mickey’s or California Grill, which often sell out weeks in advance.

Also Read: Is Pickles Allowed on International Flights?

FAQs

What are the benefits of staying at the Contemporary Resort?

Staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers several standout benefits:

• Walking distance to Magic Kingdom (just 5–10 minutes)
• Monorail access from inside the hotel
• Modern rooms with Bay Lake or park views
• Access to top-rated dining like California Grill and Chef Mickey’s
• Early theme park entry and extended evening hours for resort guests
• Option to book Club-Level rooms with added perks like complimentary food and drinks

Is breakfast included at Contemporary Resort?

No, breakfast is not included with standard room bookings. However, you can:

• Buy breakfast at on-site restaurants like Contempo Café or Chef Mickey’s
• Get complimentary continental breakfast if you stay in a Club-Level room
• Use a Disney Dining Plan (if purchased) to cover breakfast meals

Does Disney Dining Plan include drinks?

Yes, the Disney Dining Plan includes drinks:

• 1 non-alcoholic beverage or 1 alcoholic drink (for guests 21+) with each meal
• Resort-refillable mug included, valid at all Disney resort quick-service drink stations

Both quick-service and table-service meals include a drink as part of the meal entitlement.

Can you eat at the Contemporary Resort?

Absolutely. You don’t need to be a hotel guest to dine at the Contemporary Resort. Popular options include:

• California Grill (fine dining + fireworks view)
• Chef Mickey’s (character dining buffet)
• Steakhouse 71 (modern American cuisine)
• Contempo Café (quick-service for casual meals)
• Outer Rim Lounge (cocktails and light snacks)

Reservations are recommended, especially for table-service and character dining locations.