Before you go ahead and book a character meal at Disney World, you’ll want to hear this from someone who’s done them all.

Character dining can be expensive, and it does take a significant chunk of your day, so you want to make the most of it! If meeting characters is a priority for your family, it’s one of the most efficient and low-stress ways to do it. You skip long lines, get guaranteed interactions, and enjoy a built-in break that can actually recharge everyone.

1. Time Buffet Reservations

If the character meal is a buffet, timing matters more than most people realize. Booking a late breakfast, typically around 10:30 AM, can mean you’re seated while breakfast is still out, and then lunch items start rolling in shortly after. That means you can enjoy both menus for the price of one meal, which is a big win considering how expensive character dining can be. It’s one of the easiest ways to maximize value without sacrificing the experience.

2. Have a Backup Plan

Character dining reservations are some of the fastest to fill at Disney World, especially the popular ones. If your first choice isn’t available, don’t panic, have a backup restaurant (or two) with similar characters or vibes ready to go. This takes the pressure off booking day and helps ensure your kids still get the character experience they’re excited about, even if Plan A doesn’t work out. If your first choice gets taken, book your backup restaurant, but keep your eyes open for reservations to pop up as you get closer to your trip or even on the day of. 

3. Schedule Character Dining for a Rest Day

Character meals can easily take 60 to 90 minutes, and that’s time you’re not riding attractions. Booking character dining at a hotel on a non-park day lets you slow down and actually enjoy the experience without constantly watching the clock. You’ll have more relaxed character interactions, better photos, and a built-in break from the go-go-go pace of park days. You can visit Disney’s Riviera Resort for breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace with Mickey and friends, breakfast at Disney’s Beach Club Resort at Cape May Cafe, or have breakfast with Stitch at ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, just to name a few.

4. Choose Cheaper Alternatives with the Same Characters

Not all character meals are created equal, and some are far better values than others. For example, instead of Chef Mickey’s, which is more expensive and often very chaotic, Cape May Cafe offers many of the same classic characters for less money, a calmer atmosphere, and, honestly, better food! Similarly, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall can be a more affordable and less rushed alternative to Cinderella’s Royal Table. You’re still getting the magic, just without the premium price tag and stress.

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5. Use Early Reservations to Enter Early

If your restaurant opens up before the park does, you can head inside early. Now, this does not mean you’re going to be able to go hop on rides before everyone else, but you can take the opportunity to grab some great photos on your walk to the restaurant. Restaurants like Cinderella’s Royal Table and Tusker House offer early reservations that allow you into the park before most guests can get inside the park. This means quieter walkways, incredible photo opportunities, and a more relaxed start to your day, all before your meal even begins. It’s a great way to combine character time with smart park strategy.

6. Don’t Assume All Character Food is the Same

A common misconception is that character dining equals boring food, but that’s not always true. Tusker House offers a unique buffet with bold flavors and global-inspired dishes, while Story Book Dining at Artist Point features a more refined, sit-down menu that feels like a true dining experience. If food matters to you, choosing the right character restaurant can make a big difference in how much you enjoy the meal.

7. Help Timid Kids Enjoy Characters More

If you have a child who wants to see characters but feels nervous when they approach, a seating strategy can help. Have your child sit on the opposite side of the table from where characters typically come from and face the direction they’ll arrive. This gives them time to see the character coming, process what’s happening, and feel more in control. This can often lead to a much more positive experience.

8. Ravello’s 

Some character dining experiences fly under the radar but can be absolute gems. Ravello at the Four Seasons offers a “Good Morning Breakfast Buffet with Goofy and His Pals” on select mornings, typically featuring Goofy along with Mickey and Minnie. It’s a more relaxed, upscale setting that still delivers classic characters, and it’s a great option if you’re looking for something different from the usual Disney dining spots. To make reservations for Ravello, you’ll have to call the restaurant directly at (407) 313-6161. Just remember that you will need to arrange your own transportation over to the resort if you’re not already staying there, since Disney’s free transportation services will not drive you over to Four Seasons. You can drive to Four Seasons, but valet parking is required. Fortunately, valet parking is validated at the restaurant (so you don’t have to worry about it being a hefty extra expense on top of your already expensive meal).

Character dining can be one of the most memorable moments of your Disney vacation, and we hope these tips help make it even easier! For more Disney tips and dining reviews, be sure to follow DisneyFoodBlog.

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What is your favorite Disney World character meal? Tell us in the comments!