What a Disney World Expert Is Secretly Listening to and Looking for When Dining at a Character Meal

Not all character meals at Disney World are created equal!

You’re not starved for options either! Each meal has a unique cuisine and menu, from breakfasts with Mickey and friends to dinner with princesses. So how do you know which one to choose? Maybe more importantly, once you do choose a spot, how do you get the most out of the experience? Well, buckle up because we’re diving deep into some expert tips for making the most of your character meals!

Disney World character meals can feel like a whirlwind of delicious food, your favorite characters, and some picture-perfect moments. So you’re not overwhelmed when you get there, let’s have a look at some expert tips to help you make the most of your experience, from character interactions to table requests!

Preparation is Key

It almost goes with saying that a little prep goes a long way! If you can take some time beforehand to really know the characters that will show up at the restaurant, that knowledge will help you have more meaningful interactions.

Imagine Mickey’s delight when you ask about his latest adventures, or picture Pluto’s excitement when you have a special question about his doggy dish.

Also, having a unique autograph request or a fun fact ready for each character shows you’re prepared and truly excited.

Location, Location, Location

As they say, it’s all about location. Where you sit in the restaurant can make quite a difference.

If you want to capture those picture-perfect moments a little earlier, don’t be afraid to request a table with good lighting.

Also, for some of the restaurants, if you’re by the windows, take ‘Ohana, for example, you can get some gorgeous natural light for capturing those unforgettable character photos.

Talking about location, if you know the restaurant layout beforehand, that can help with seating requests. For instance, at Be Our Guest Restaurant, the differently-themed rooms offer different character interaction experiences.

If you’re content with waving and snapping quick pictures from a distance, you might want to request a smaller table. Or if you have young children who want hugs and autographs, a table with more space to get in and out of might be a better fit.

Dress for the Occasion

If you want to go the extra mile, why not dress up for the occasion? Dressing up in theme with the characters or the restaurant can add another layer of fun to the experience.

Can you imagine Minnie’s delight when you show up in your matching Minnie Mouse outfit? We’re not saying you always need to rock an entire Disneybound ensemble, but a nod to the character goes a long way!

Be Aware of your Surroundings

Character dining tends to have a pretty lively atmosphere, so it’s best to always be mindful of your surroundings.

You’ll typically find that the tables are close together, and character interactions can create a bit of a crowd. Keep an eye on your belongings and children to avoid any mishaps, and ensure it’s a smooth and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Must-Knows

Character frequency: Keep an eye out for how often characters come around to visit at the different restaurants. For example, Cape May Cafe is known for multiple character visits, while Crystal Palace might have just one.
Meal style: Most character meals are buffets, which allows you the freedom to enjoy the food at your own pace while characters make their rounds.
Have your strategy in place: If you know what type of meal you’ll be having and how many times the characters will come around, you can plan accordingly for the times you’ll hit the buffet for seconds (and thirds)!

So, make sure to plan a character dining experience for your next Disney World trip. Stay tuned to AllEars for more dining reviews and updates from Disney World!