How Disney Chefs Made Me Feel Cared For: My Most Memorable Meals
- kellyv935
- Dec 15, 2025
- 3 min read
When you live with celiac disease and multiple food allergies, dining out can feel more stressful than relaxing. It is easy to spend mealtimes on edge, wondering if your food is truly safe. But every so often, an experience reminds you what it feels like to simply enjoy a meal without worry. For me, that feeling came to life thanks to a few very special Disney chefs who made me feel seen, cared for, and completely at ease.
The Disney Magic Started with a Chef
One of the moments that stands out most actually began before my trip even started. After I filled out my Special Diets form, Chef Michael from Disney’s All-Star Music Resort reached out by email to help coordinate safe meals for my stay. From the very beginning, his kindness and attention to detail put me at ease.
When I arrived at the resort and went to order, he came out to meet me personally. He talked through each ingredient, double-checked everything, and made sure my meal would be something I’d truly enjoy. That first breakfast—safe waffles for the first time and strawberry shortcake—felt like such a gift.
Chef Michael cooked for me several times throughout my stay and even connected with other chefs across the resort to ensure every meal was handled with care. Because of that, the whole week felt extra special. Every chef I met went above and beyond, and I walked away reminded of just how much heart Disney’s culinary team puts into caring for guests with dietary needs.
Safe Churros and a Little Bit of Magic
Another standout memory came during a private Fantasmic event where they served gluten free churros. I was thrilled just to see them, but when I learned they had been safely prepared and handled separately, I almost teared up. After years of skipping treats because of cross-contact concerns, finally being able to enjoy something so simple felt amazing. It was one of those small but powerful moments that stay with you long after the trip ends.
A Thoughtful Touch at Sebastian’s Bistro
Then there was Chef Vero at Sebastian’s Bistro at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. She made the entire meal—from the main course to the salad and dessert—so flavorful and unforgettable while still keeping everything safe for me, which is no small feat. I wasn’t expecting anything special for dessert, but she surprised me with a safe option—a soft lemon Mickey cookie paired with house made strawberry sorbet. She checked every ingredient carefully to make sure it was something I could eat, even with my more complex allergies. It was such a kind and thoughtful gesture, and it turned an ordinary dinner into one of my favorite Disney memories.
Learning to Feel Confident Again
Over time, these experiences have taught me how to calmly advocate for myself when dining out, while also trusting that there are people who truly care about keeping guests safe. Disney’s chefs go above and beyond not just because it is part of their job, but because they understand how much it means to those of us who live with food restrictions.
Why It Matters to Me
Moments like these are the reason I love helping others plan their trips. I know what it feels like to walk into a restaurant with a knot in your stomach, and I also know how powerful it is when that feeling is replaced with trust and joy. Sharing these experiences reminds me that safe travel is possible—and that sometimes, the best memories come from the meals that make you feel cared for.
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