Walt Disney World Resort is the ultimate place for magical experiences, and it doesn’t get much more magical than character dining.
These meals don’t just offer delicious food, but provide a chance to meet your favorite Disney characters, making memories you’ll treasure forever. (It doesn’t hurt that you don’t have to wait in the regular lines that come with character meet-and-greets, either). Whether you’re dining with royalty, iconic Disney friends, or beloved characters from your favorite stories, it’s an experience that’s well worth the extra premium – if you pick the right restaurant.
Planning your next Disney trip? Here are the top five character dining options we recommend booking ASAP.
1. Cinderella’s Royal Table
Location: Magic Kingdom
For a fairytale dining experience, Cinderella’s Royal Table is the perfect spot. This iconic restaurant is located inside Cinderella Castle, which makes this the closest thing you can get to dining like a real Disney princess. The stunning decor, grand windows, and breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom make it a magical experience from the moment you walk in.
Luckily, it only gets better from there.
Once seated, you’ll get to meet Disney Princesses such as Ariel, Snow White, Aurora, and Cinderella (obviously) while enjoying an elegant meal. The menu features dishes like Slow-Braised Beef, Castle Salad, and even the Jaq and Gus Cheesecake for dessert (don’t worry, it’s mice-free). Younger guests can enjoy a selection of kid-friendly options, too.
The real challenge is securing a reservation. This is one of the most popular dining experiences at Walt Disney World, meaning you’ll need to be on it with your Advance Restaurants Reservation to secure a slot.
2. Chef Mickey’s
Location: Disney’s Contemporary Resort
This may be a controversial choice, but the reality is that Chef Mickey’s is a must-visit for families. This lively restaurant, located at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, is home to the “Fab Five”: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto. With its bright and cheerful atmosphere, Chef Mickey’s perfectly captures the joy and energy of Disney magic.
The buffet-style dining experience is perfect for all ages. Breakfast is especially popular, with fan favorites like Mickey-shaped waffles, fresh fruit, and custom omelets. We’d also argue that it’s the best meal from a food perspective. While nothing at Chef Mickey’s is Michelin-level cuisine, the breakfast is comparably much better than lunch and dinner.
What’s key is the fact that Chef Mickey’s is fun. The characters visit each table, dance, and interact with guests, creating a joyful and energetic atmosphere. Kids love the chance to hug their favorite Disney friends and take photos, while parents will appreciate the lively yet organized flow of the experience.
3. Tusker House Restaurant
Location: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Tusker House offers a unique mix of African-inspired flavors and character meet-and-greets. This restaurant, located in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, is a great choice for adventurous eaters looking to try something new while still enjoying classic Disney charm.
The buffet includes dishes like Braised Beef Tajine, Green Curry Shrimp, and South African-spiced Cauliflower Curry. Even picky eaters will find something to love, with plenty of familiar options like standard Macaroni and Cheese and Disney’s classic Chicken Strips.
Donald Duck is the main attraction here, but he’s often joined by the likes of Mickey Mouse and Goofy in their explorer outfits. Guests often praise the attentive cast members and the immersive decor, which is very much reflective of Animal Kingdom’s overall commitment to theming.
Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, Tusker House offers a vibrant atmosphere that complements the adventurous spirit of Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Be sure to save room for dessert—the “nature-inspired desserts” here are just as impressive as the main dishes!
4. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Location: EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion
At Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, located in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, you can enjoy a princess-themed dining experience in a cozy, storybook setting. This charming venue is an excellent alternative to Cinderella’s Royal Table, especially for families who want a royal experience without the crowds.
The menu features Norwegian-inspired dishes like Kjøttkaker (Norwegian meatballs) and Potetstappe Med Brun Saus (mashed potatoes with gravy), along with classic American options for guests who prefer familiar flavors. Breakfast includes traditional pastries, eggs, and Norwegian waffles, while lunch and dinner feature heartier options like roasted meats and seasonal vegetables.
During your meal, you’ll get to meet princesses like Belle, Aurora, and Snow White. Each princess takes time to visit your table, pose for photos, and chat with guests. Sadly, even though it’s located in the Norway Pavilion, Anna and Elsa don’t make an appearance, but they’re not too far away if you do choose to pop over to Royal Sommerhus after your meal.
For families with young princess fans, this dining experience is a hidden gem. It’s a great way to enjoy character interactions without the hustle and bustle of larger venues, plus the food is genuinely excellent.
5. Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White
Location: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
When you consider that some character dining experiences have been available for decades, Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White is one of the newer character dining experiences at Disney World.
First opened at the rustic Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in 2018 (when some diehard fans protested against Artist Point’s IP makeover), it offers a unique, immersive dining experience in a fairytale atmosphere, complete with forest-inspired decor that transports you into the world of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (1937).
Only available for dinner, the meal combines Snow White-inspired dishes – including Magic Mirror’s Slow-braised Pork Shank, Bashful’s Fish of the Day, Fairy Tale Gooseberry Tart, and the “Poison Apple” dessert – with a cozy setting, enhanced by a “forest” of light-up trees.
It’s the character interactions at Story Book Dining that make the meal even more special. Guests have the chance to meet Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and other iconic characters – most of whom are actually rather rare at Disney World – as they make their way around the restaurant to greet diners. It’s a fitting homage to the film that kicked off The Walt Disney Company’s legacy and one of our favorite spots on property.
Tips for Booking and Enjoying Character Dining
- Book Early: Use the My Disney Experience app to make reservations as soon as your 60-day booking window opens. These experiences fill up quickly, so planning ahead is key!
- Coordinate With Your Park Days: Plan your dining reservations to fit your park itinerary for a smoother day. This ensures you can enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.
- Bring Your Camera: Don’t forget to capture those magical moments. An autograph book is also a fun way to get keepsakes that kids will cherish.
- Arrive on Time: Being punctual ensures you’ll get the full experience without feeling rushed or missing out on any character interactions.
- Ask About Special Diets: Most Disney restaurants can accommodate special dietary needs, so don’t hesitate to ask your server for help.
What’s your favorite character dining experience at Disney World?
