New Mobile App Test for Dining at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Over the past few years, Disney has been testing ways to get food to people faster and more efficiently. For example, they’ve been doing it with Be Our Guest Restaurant at the Magic Kingdom, where guests can pre-order their breakfast or lunch up to 30 days prior to their trip. However, right now, there is currently a new test occurring, this time at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

To take part in the test, guests must first download the Express Order app on the Apple or Android device. Guests will also need to make sure that they have checked to allow for location services and Bluetooth to be accessed.

This test is taking place in two locations–Backlot Express and Fantasmic!

At Backlot Express, guests will have the option to have either pick up the meal to go, have the guests pick up the meal at the counter, or have the meal delivered straight to their table.

The app includes quite a bit of information for guests picking selections. You can see the item in detail, and even modify the order, for example, with the chili cheese dog, you could choose not to include onions or to have the chili be on the side.

Before you place your order, you will need to confirm everything. This includes imputing a valid email address, as well as a credit card. During the test, a valid credit card or Apple Pay are the only things that will be accepted and the card will only be charged when the order is picked up.  The Disney Dining Plan will not be accepted.

Perhaps the more interesting part of this test is the Fantasmic! location. That’s because guests will be able to have things delivered to them, in their seats. Options include things like snacks, beverages, and yes, even the Made with Magic merchandise items! Guests will get to relax as they wait for the items to be brought to them. The items will be delivered by Cast Members in red aprons and guests will need to show the order number found on the device upon delivery.

It is important to note that on nights when two Fantasmic! performances are held, the test will only be available during the pre-show of the first performance.

The test will occur until May 12 and I think that this is a very interesting idea. I’m sure if the test goes well, we may see this concept rolled out to other areas of the park, as well as other parks. Really, the sky could be the limit with this test. I’ll be curious to see how Disney adapts this and utilizes it in the future, because we all know that this is likely just the beginning for this type of thing.