Disney World’s Best Character Dining Experiences
One of the most magical ways to enhance your Disney World visit is by enjoying a character dining experience. These meals not only offer delicious food but also the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters up close. Here’s a guide to some of the best character dining experiences at Disney World, along with tips for securing reservations and what to expect during your visit.
Top Character Dining Experiences
1. Cinderella’s Royal Table
Location: Magic Kingdom
Overview: Dine like royalty inside Cinderella Castle with Cinderella and her princess friends. The meal includes a variety of appetizers, entrees, and desserts fit for a king or queen.
Review: This is a must-do for fans of Disney princesses. The setting is stunning, and the chance to meet multiple princesses without waiting in line is worth the splurge.
Tips:
Reservations are highly sought after, so book as early as possible (up to 60 days in advance).
Arrive a bit early to enjoy the ambiance of the castle and take photos.
Review: This is a must-do for fans of Disney princesses. The setting is stunning, and the chance to meet multiple princesses without waiting in line is worth the splurge.
Tips:
Reservations are highly sought after, so book as early as possible (up to 60 days in advance).
Arrive a bit early to enjoy the ambiance of the castle and take photos.
2. Chef Mickey’s
Location: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Overview: Enjoy a buffet meal with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, and Pluto. This lively dining experience offers classic American cuisine for breakfast, brunch, or dinner.
Review: Perfect for families, Chef Mickey’s provides a fun atmosphere with plenty of character interactions. The food is crowd-pleasing, with a variety of options for all tastes.
Tips:
Try to secure a reservation during off-peak times for a more relaxed experience.
Request a table near the main buffet area for quicker access to food.
3. Tusker House Restaurant
Location: Animal Kingdom
Overview: This buffet-style dining experience features Donald Duck and friends in safari gear. The menu offers a blend of African-inspired dishes and familiar favorites.
Review: The unique setting and flavorful food make Tusker House a standout. The characters in safari attire add an extra layer of fun to the dining experience.
Tips:
Plan your meal around your visit to Kilimanjaro Safaris, as the restaurant is conveniently located nearby.
Consider a late breakfast reservation to take advantage of both breakfast and lunch items.
4. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Location: Epcot
Overview: Meet a variety of Disney princesses while dining in a Norwegian-inspired castle. The menu features Scandinavian cuisine, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Review: Akershus offers a similar princess experience to Cinderella’s Royal Table but at a lower price point. The interaction with the princesses is excellent, and the food is unique and tasty.
Tips:
Breakfast tends to be the most popular meal, so book early.
Take time to explore the nearby Norway Pavilion and meet Anna and Elsa at the Royal Sommerhus.
5. Garden Grill Restaurant
Location: Epcot
Overview: Enjoy a family-style meal with Chip ‘n’ Dale and other characters while the restaurant slowly rotates, offering views of the Living with the Land attraction.
Review: The rotating dining room and fresh ingredients (many sourced from Epcot’s greenhouses) make Garden Grill a memorable experience. The characters are very engaging, and the food is delicious and plentiful.
Tips:
Request a booth on the lower level for the best views and a more intimate setting.
Book a breakfast reservation for a great start to your day at Epcot.
Tips for Securing Reservations
Book Early: Reservations open 60 days in advance, and popular character dining experiences fill up quickly. Set a reminder to book as soon as your window opens.
Be Flexible: If your preferred time isn’t available, try for different meal times or days. Breakfast reservations tend to be less popular than dinner.
Check for Cancellations: Frequently check the My Disney Experience app for last-minute openings, as plans change and reservations can become available.
Use Alerts: Services like MouseDining can send you alerts when a reservation for your desired time and location becomes available.
What to Expect and How to Prepare
Arrive Early: Plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before your reservation to check in and take in the atmosphere.
Bring a Camera: You’ll want to capture the magical moments with the characters. Photopass photographers may be available, but having your camera or phone ready is essential.
Consider the Menu: Review the menu ahead of time to ensure there are options that suit your dietary preferences and restrictions. Most Disney restaurants accommodate special dietary needs with advance notice.
Dress Comfortably: While you don’t need to dress up, consider wearing something nice for photos, especially at princess-themed meals. Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll likely be walking a lot before and after your meal.
Conclusion
Character dining at Disney World is an enchanting experience that adds a touch of magic to your trip. Whether you're dining with royalty at Cinderella's Royal Table or joining Mickey and friends at Chef Mickey's, these meals provide unforgettable memories. Follow these tips for securing reservations and preparing for your meal, and get ready for a dining experience filled with fun, food, and favorite Disney characters.
