Priority seating has replaced reservations at most of WDW's full-service restaurants.
Disney started the policy to provide the assurance of a reservation without delays caused by no-shows and latecomers. Ideally, the system ensures that guests are not left waiting if a table is available. Here's how it works: You call ahead to request a priority seating time; you arrive five minutes before the assigned time and check in at the podium; you receive the next available table that can accommodate your party. The system works like reservations, so you will always be seated before any walk-ins. They can be secured up to 90 days in advance, too!