Tuesday, July 17, 2012

A Meal With Character!

Dining with the Characters

Bear hug from a chipmunk!! Which one is he??

Such a wonderful treat! We have to have a character meal (at least one) each time we visit WDW. I can't imagine vacation pictures without some costumed adult hugging my kids!

We have our all time favorites that are must do's but we also try to mix in something we haven't done at all or done in a while. This way our pictures and memories expand and we don't get complacent with this time honored tradition.

Our best family tradition is Chef Mickey's. Located at the Contemporary Resort, it's convenient to the Magic Kingdom and offers a huge variety of food and the Fabulous Five characters. It is becoming increasingly difficult to get reservations at Chef Mickey's so you really need to decide and book it 180 days before you arrive!

Most of the Character restaurants book up fast! You can check at the podium to be put on a wait list if they have one for that night. We've tried at the Garden Grill at Epcot before and waiting about an hour to be seated. No guarantees even at that point if you will be seated though! Best to let a travel agent book it for you ;)

Some of our other favorites include: Akershus at the Norway pavilion in Epcot, Cinderellas Royal Banquet in the Castle at the Magic Kingdom, 1900 Park Fare at the Grand Floridian and Hollywood & Vine with the Disney Junior characters. 

If you are lucky and the restaurant isn't super busy you will get a lot of interaction with the characters! They are extremely playful and love to joke around with your kids. Always sit your children on the outside (totally opposite from what you normally do I know!) so the characters can hug and dance with them. Have your autograph book open and pen ready and don't forget to keep your camera handy! A camcorder of some kind is a must because the interaction is the best!

Truly a favorite moment with Cinderella!
Mickey playing around at the Garden Grill

A great choice to see all of the princesses at once! Reservations are easier to get then at the Castle!

MORE tips!


  • We strongly recommend reservations far in advance – but if it’s last minute, it’s worth a try to stop by the restaurant and inquire.
  • If you’re planning breakfast, go early – or go late. It’s a great way to wake everyone up and be ready to take on the attractions with a full tummy, or to miss the busiest times (and maybe have a little more time with the characters).
  • Don’t forget an autograph book for the kids!
  • The characters make a stop at every single table. They will get to yours. 



  • Best audience with the Big Cheese: Chef Mickey’s Fun Time Buffet at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. He’s in that adorable chef hat. Breakfast or dinner, both buffets are bounteous.
  • Some of our favorite food: The Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom Park with favorite Disney storybook friends for breakfast, lunch and dinner; The Garden Grill at The Land Pavilion at Epcot (Chip n’ Dale for dinner); 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (Supercalifragilistic Breakfast and Cinderella and friends for dinner).
  • Dream come true for little girls: “Princess Storybook Dining” at Akershus in Epcot’s Norway Pavilion for breakfast, lunch or dinner.
  • Where to find Minnie Mouse: At breakfast at Cape May CafĂ© at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Dressed in her best swimwear.
  • For Disney Channel fans: For little ones who love Handy Manny, Agent Oso and June and Leo from “Little Einsteins,” book breakfast or lunch at Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Get ready for singing and dancing.
  • The most coveted table: Fairytale Dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom Park. Reservations can be made 180 days in advance.
  • No adults allowed: Wonderland Tea Party at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. Drop off the kids for tea with Alice and the Mad Hatter.
  • Make an evening of it: When the weather’s right, Mickey’s Backyard Barbecue dinner show at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
  • Speedy service: The family-style platters at ‘Ohana fill you up at breakfast, with Lilo and Stitch to keep you company.
  • If you love Donald Duck: Start your day at Tusker House at Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Donald’s Safari Breakfast.

Remember this is just one of the many services MackeyMouse Travel offers! We book your dining and help you decide which choices are the best for your vacation!! Contact us for help today!!  Check out our Disney World Information page for up to the minute help and tips!

Even the grown-ups get into the fun!!! 1900 Park Fare (My parents 50th Wedding Anniversary!)



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