For weeks, Walt Disney World travelers planning for 2026 were in a state of “dining panic.” In late December 2025, reports surfaced that over 35 popular restaurants—primarily third-party operated locations in EPCOT and Disney Springs—were missing from the official Disney Dining Plan (DDP) roster.Credit: DisneyAs we ring in January 2026, there is finally a significant update. While many of those “missing” menus have officially signed their contracts and returned to the plan, a few heavy hitters are still noticeably absent. If you are holding a 2026 vacation package, here is the latest breakdown of what’s back, what’s still missing, and what you need to do next.The “Contract Dance” Ends: Major Restaurants ReturnThe initial scare in December was largely due to the annual “Contract Dance.” Because Disney does not own many restaurants in the World Showcase and Disney Springs (they are operated instead by groups such as Patina, Landry’s, or the Jose Andres Group), they must negotiate reimbursement rates for Dining Plan credits on an annual basis.Credit: Disney WeddingsAccording to the latest January 2026 updates, the following popular locations have officially rejoined the Disney Dining Plan:EPCOT (World Showcase): Via Napoli, Tutto Italia, San Angel Inn Restaurante, and Rose & Crown Dining Room.Disney Springs: The BOATHOUSE, Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish, and Terralina Crafted Italian.Animal Kingdom: Yak & Yeti Restaurant.Resorts: Maya Grill (Coronado Springs).For guests who were concerned about paying out of pocket for their favorite Italian pizza or waterfront steak, this news is a massive relief.The “Still Missing” List: High-Profile HoldoutsDespite the wave of returns, the 2026 list is not yet 100% complete. Several iconic locations are still showing as “not participating” on the official Disney World website and app. If these are on your “must-do” list, you may want to have a backup plan in place.Credit: DisneyNotable holdouts as of early January 2026 include:Space 220 (EPCOT): This out-of-this-world experience is a frequent late-signer and currently remains off the list.Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (Disney Springs): A fan-favorite for fried chicken that often takes longer to finalize its DDP terms.T-Rex Cafe & Rainforest Cafe: These Landry ‘s-owned staples are often among the last to be updated in the system.The Polite Pig: A top-tier Quick Service spot in Disney Springs that is currently in limbo.New for 2026: The “Lunch vs. Dinner” RestrictionOne of the most important takeaways from the January update is that some restaurants have reopened, albeit with new restrictions. To maximize their profit margins, several locations are now restricting when you can use your Dining Plan credits:Credit: DisneyVia Napoli (EPCOT): Currently only showing participation for Dinner.Tutto Italia (EPCOT): Currently only showing participation for Lunch.The Edison (Disney Springs): Only accepting credits for Dinner.This is a strategic shift for 2026. If you plan to use a credit, please check the specific meal period on the Disney app before you sit down, as you may be charged a surprise bill at the end of your meal.Why This Matters for the “Kids Eat Free” PromoDisney is currently running a massive “Kids Eat Free” promotion for much of 2026. This deal allows children (ages 3-9) to receive a free Dining Plan with the purchase of a non-discounted 4-night/4-day vacation package.Credit: Disney Because so many families booked this deal specifically to save on high-cost meals, the “Missing Restaurant” list carries more weight this year. If the most expensive restaurants (like Space 220 or The Boathouse) stay off the plan, the mathematical “value” of the promotion drops significantly.Pro-Tip: Should You Change Your Reservations?If your favorite restaurant is still missing from the 2026 Disney Dining Plan list, don’t cancel your reservation yet.Credit: DisneyThe “Last Minute” Rule: In previous years, we have seen restaurants sign their contracts as late as mid-January. If they sign after you’ve made your reservation but before you dine, your credits will be accepted.Book a Backup: Make a secondary reservation at a Disney-owned restaurant (like Le Cellier or Garden Grill) as a “Plan B.” You can cancel your unwanted reservation up to two hours before the meal without incurring a penalty.Check the Filter: When using the My Disney Experience app, use the “Dining Plan Accepted” filter under the “Dining” tab. This is the most real-time way to see if a contract has been signed.Final VerdictThe “Great Dining Plan Scare of 2026” is essentially over, with approximately 80% of the missing restaurants now back in the fold. However, the new time-of-day restrictions and a handful of missing high-profile spots mean that 2026 travelers need to be more diligent than ever.Are you still waiting for a specific restaurant to join the 2026 Dining Plan? Please let us know in the comments, and we will update this list as more contracts are signed.The post 2026 Disney Dining Plan Update: Most Restaurants Return, But These Fan-Favorites Are Still Missing appeared first on Inside the Magic.