Nearly 30 years ago, Mom and I were staying at the Contemporary, and just wanted dessert. We went to the Contemporary Steakhouse (the area is now part of Chef Mickey's) , and made sure both the host and the server knew that before we were seated. The server was great, we actually split the biggest "serving" of cake I have ever seen in a restaurant, at the servers suggestion. We gave ourselves time to enjoy it, but did not dally and take up the table for too long. Of course, we also ate full meals most of the time during the trip, so the host and server recognized us. We tipped well for the dessert. Fast forward to today, there are more options than ever. Ordering appetizers and dessert is a good option..there are so many more options today for a light or dessert only meal without taking up a regular table service ADR. Disney has added so many lounges that serve lighter fare at decent prices (for Disney) that don't require ADRs. Rather than carry food around a park all day...skip the table service and go with all counter service meals, except for one special meal. Counter service while still pricey by offsite norms, are reasonable by Disney standards I did this with a group of friends I went with a few years ago, it saved a lot of money for them.
Plus, where do you intend to eat that food that you bring in? Take up a table at an already crowded counter service place where paying guests are looking to sit? While there are plenty of places in Animal Kingdom to do this, in most other parks, there just aren't places. And there will be fewer and fewer unused tables as crowds ramp up to the opening of Galaxy's Edge and the 50th anniversary. I have a feeling the parks are going to be much more crowded than normal fo the next 2 to 3 years.
