Planning a Disney vacation with little ones? If you're anything like the families I work with, character dining is probably high on your list, and for good reason! It’s the perfect way to meet favorite characters without waiting in long lines, all while enjoying a sit-down meal that offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks.

But here’s the secret: not all character dining is created equal. Some experiences are better suited for toddlers, and others? Well, they just might surprise you with how elevated the food can be.

As a Disney travel planner who also is a mom of young kids (and a huge foodie) I've rounded up the best character dining spots that delight tiny tummies and grown-up palates alike.

Minnie looking adorable in her artist outfit at Topolino’s Terrace!

1. Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera (Disney’s Riviera Resort)

Characters: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Daisy (in exclusive artist outfits!)
Meal: Breakfast only with characters (Dinner without characters)

✨ Why it's magical: This is my top pick for elevated character dining. Located at the stunning Riviera Resort, this breakfast features refined dishes like smoked salmon, sour cream waffles, and quiche gruyère—served à la carte (no buffet lines here!).

👶 Why kids love it: The characters are lively, the setting is airy and elegant, and the rooftop views are photo-op gold.

🍴 Grown-up bonus: Cappuccinos, mimosas, and food that’s actually crave-worthy. Trust me, you’ll forget you’re at a character meal.

2. Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (EPCOT, Norway Pavilion)

Characters: Belle, Ariel, Cinderella, Snow White, and more
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

✨ Why it’s magical: This regal dining hall gives you access to a lineup of princesses (exact princesses are subject to change, but they’re all amazing!)

👶 Why kids love it: It’s basically a royal ball with pancakes (or meatballs, depending on the meal). Perfect for your little prince or princess.

🍴 Grown-up bonus: Nordic-inspired dishes like Norwegian salmon, lefse, and a unique charcuterie board. Wine is available, too!

My family at Chef Mickey’s, our favorite place to eat!

3. Chef Mickey’s (Disney’s Contemporary Resort)

Characters: Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto
Meal: Breakfast and Dinner

✨ Why it’s magical: A classic, high-energy experience that’s a hit for first-time visitors. Watch the monorail zip by overhead while Mickey comes to your table! This is my daughter’s #1 favorite restaurant (and one of my faves too) so I couldn’t NOT include it on this list!

👶 Why kids love it: The characters come out with music and flair, everyone is dancing and waving their napkins in the air! It’s such a party!

🍴 Grown-up bonus: Most people don’t think of Chef Mickey’s as a grown-up friendly restaurant, but the breakfast has something for everyone! And the dinner buffet has stepped up its game with items like carving stations, seasonal vegetables, and shrimp & grits.

4. The Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom)

Characters: Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, and Eeyore
Meal: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

✨ Why it’s magical: Just steps from Cinderella Castle, this Victorian-style spot is perfect for a whimsical break in your Magic Kingdom day.

👶 Why kids love it: Pooh Bear and friends are gentle, sweet, and especially great for younger or more introverted kiddos. Seeing my one-year-old meet Pooh for the first time is one of my most cherished Disney memories.

🍴 Grown-up bonus: Recently refreshed menu with carved meats, seasonal veggies, and plant-based options that don’t taste like afterthoughts.

Appetizers at Artist Point. The mushroom soup is a favorite!

5. Story Book Dining at Artist Point (Disney’s Wilderness Lodge)

Characters: Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy, and the Evil Queen
Meal: Dinner only

✨ Why it’s magical: The forest-themed ambiance is stunning, and just spooky enough to thrill older kids and impress adults.

👶 Why kids love it: Interactive moments with the dwarfs and Snow White, plus magical desserts served in creative ways (hello, chocolate hearts!).

🍴 Grown-up bonus: Three-course prix-fixe menu with dishes like prime rib and wild mushroom bisque. This one feels like a fine dining experience with a dash of fairy tale.

✨ Amy’s Insider Tips:

Book early – Character dining reservations open 60 days in advance and fill up fast, especially for Topolino’s and Artist Point.
Don’t skip breakfast – If you're planning a break day or a late park entry, a character breakfast is a great way to start with some pixie dust. Breakfast also tends to be cheaper than lunch and dinner! I like to do a late breakfast as a nice break after starting off the day early at the parks.
Let me help! – When you book your Disney vacation with me, I’ll not only recommend the best character meals for your family—I’ll handle the reservations for you!

Final Thoughts

Character dining isn’t just about snapping a photo with Mickey (though yes, that’s pretty great). It’s about creating memories—the kind where your toddler lights up at the sight of Pooh Bear, your mom tears up hugging Cinderella, and you, sipping a mimosa, realize this is what magic looks like.

Ready to plan a Disney vacation filled with moments like these?

✨ Contact me here to get started with personalized Disney planning that takes care of every detail.

Best Character Dining for Little Ones (and Grown-Up Palates)