Whether you’re a longtime fan of Disney’s animated movies or you have a little one who has recently fallen in love with films like Moana or the Frozen franchise (or both!), when it comes to making magical memories on vacation, nothing can compare to princess dining at Disney World. Available at several restaurants around Walt Disney World—and with a variety of themes, cuisines and royal guests in attendance—this special experience gives you and your family a chance to dine with some of your favorite Disney characters while enjoying delicious food in enchanting settings.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various princess dining experiences on offer across Walt Disney World Resort hotels and theme parks. From Cinderella’s Royal Table, which is nestled within Cinderella Castle in the middle of Magic Kingdom Park, to Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, there’s a Disney princess character meal that is sure to delight every member of your group.
Naturally, being spoiled for choice can sometimes be overwhelming. If that rings true for you, we hope that this Disney World restaurant guide will give you some clarity (as crystal clear as Cinderella’s glass slipper, hopefully) on which Disney princess character dining experience is right for you and your family. So, put on your tiaras, folks, because we’re embarking on a tantalizing journey through each of the character meals with Disney Princesses at Disney World.
Due to the recent pandemic, some character dining experiences have yet to return to Walt Disney World or have sadly been cut altogether. At the time of writing, character meals that remain temporarily unavailable include: the Bon Voyage Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s BoardWalk and Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare and Disney’s Perfectly Princess Tea Party, both at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Unfortunately, the Wonderland Tea Party hosted by Alice and The Mad Hatter, also at the Grand Floridian Resort, has been silently wiped from the Walt Disney World website and My Disney Experience app. As a result, we do not anticipate this becoming available again in the future. We recommend you refer to either the website or the app when planning your vacation as offerings continue to change.
Eat Like Royalty at These Walt Disney World Princess Dining Experiences
Are you looking for an extra touch of pixie dust for a Disney vacation with friends or family? Why not add some royal flair to your itinerary with one of the princess storybook dining experiences at Walt Disney World restaurants? It’s like having your own personal fairy godmother whisk you away to a magical world of fairytale castles, beloved Disney characters and regal feasts fit for kings and queens, no evil stepmother or midnight curfew required. From breakfast with Belle in an elegant medieval castle to dinner with Snow White in an enchanted forest-like setting, from French- or Norwegian-inspired cuisine to elevated American classics, there’s something for every prince or princess in your party.
But, who are we going to meet on these regal rendezvous? Well, each restaurant has a unique roster of royalty waiting in the wings to make their appearance. On top of that, the theming is impeccable—think grand banquet halls straight out of a storybook. Sure, the price tag for character dining at Disney World might seem princely, but remember, this isn’t just about the food. It’s an immersive experience that brings the magic of Disney right to your table, which, as an added bonus, also means that you won’t have to stand in a long character meet-and-greet line later.
So, without any further ado, let’s get into all of the character dining experiences with Disney Princesses at Disney World. (Keep in mind that characters in attendance are subject to change based on availability.)
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Get ready to be treated like the kings and queens you are at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall. Located in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall dishes up an interesting Scandinavian family-style meal and a slew of Disney Princesses at a more wallet-friendly price than what you’ll find at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom. However, be aware that while it may be right next door to Frozen Ever After, Anna and Elsa do not make an appearance.
Meal(s) Offered: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Dining Style: Served family-style
Characters in Attendance: Ariel, Aurora, Belle, Cinderella and Snow White
Price: Breakfast – $53 per adult and $34 per child, Lunch and Dinner – $63 per adult and $41 per child (plus tax and gratuity)
Cinderella’s Royal Table
When it comes to character dining at Disney World, few experiences are as in-demand as Cinderella’s Royal Table. From its regal setting inside the iconic Cinderella Castle to its elegant American-style prix fixe menu to its star-studded guest list, this princess dining experience ticks all of the boxes. As long as you don’t get sticker shock, that is. Still, it’s a whole lot more accessible than a stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite. And thanks to its central location in the heart of the theme park, it’s perfect for those who are planning to spend the day in Magic Kingdom.
Meal(s) Offered: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Dining Style: Prix fixe menu
Characters in Attendance: Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella, Jasmine and Snow White
Price: Breakfast – $65 per adult and $39 per child, Lunch and Dinner – $79 per adult and $47 per child (plus tax and gratuity)
Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White
Though one of the newer offerings for character dining at Disney World, Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is easily one of our favorite character meals. In fact, we’re going to go out on a limb and say that it may just be the best character dining option of the bunch for those looking for princesses. The entire dining room has been magically transformed into an enchanted forest, making for a truly dreamy setting complete with twinkle light-bedecked tree branches. Plus, as the former signature restaurant at this Disney resort, the food is much better than what you get at some of the other character dining options on our list. It’s a win-win all around.
Meal(s) Offered: Dinner
Dining Style: Prix fixe menu
Characters in Attendance: Snow White, the Evil Queen, Dopey and Grumpy
Price: Dinner – $65 per adult and $39 per child (plus tax and gratuity)
Be Our Guest Restaurant
Ok, we’ll be honest. Be Our Guest Restaurant in New Fantasyland in Magic Kingdom isn’t technically a Disney princess meal. In fact, it really isn’t even a character dining experience, period. Rather, guests have a chance to catch a glimpse of The Beast as he sulks around the West Wing and Ballroom-themed dining rooms and, if they’re lucky, possibly snap a photo or two. Nonetheless, between the incredibly immersive theming, delicious French-inspired dishes (try Grey Stuff—it’s delicious) and the possible character sighting, we think this is still a worthy option for those in search of Disney royalty.
Meal(s) Offered: Lunch and Dinner
Dining Style: Prix fixe menu
Characters in Attendance: The Beast
Price: Lunch and Dinner – $67 per adult and $39 per child (plus tax and gratuity)
Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare
1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is home to not one but two different character dining experiences. While breakfast plays host to British characters like Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland and Winnie the Pooh, dinner offers a feast fit for royalty, specifically Cinderella, Prince Charming and her less-than-friendly family members. While the buffet-style dishes are rather unremarkable, the regal guest list is anything but. Don’t be surprised if family drama-fueled shenanigans ensue, making this a fun choice even the grown-ups will love.
Meal(s) Offered: Dinner (breakfast is also available with other Disney characters)
Dining Style: Buffet
Characters in Attendance: Cinderella, Prince Charming, Anastasia, Drizella and Lady Tremaine (the Supercalifragilistic Breakfast features British Disney characters like Mary Poppins, Winnie the Pooh and his pals and Alice in Wonderland favorites like Alice and The Mad Hatter)
Price: Dinner – $60 per adult and $39 per child (plus tax and gratuity)
Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno
Another one of the newer character dining offerings at the Disney resorts, the Bon Voyage Breakfast at Trattoria al Forno on Disney’s BoardWalk is perfect for fans of both the older and newer Disney films or those looking for a little romance. Hosted by two Disney power couples, Ariel & Prince Eric from The Little Mermaid and Rapunzel & Flynn Rider from Tangled, this is one character meal that is sure to leave you smiling. Add in a traditional breakfast menu with an Italian twist, and this is some of the best character dining at Disney World. Additionally, although this isn’t a family-style restaurant (guests choose an entree from a prix fixe menu), guests do receive a basket of breakfast pastries to share before the main course. So, try not to get carried away if you want to get your money’s worth.
Meal(s) Offered: Breakfast
Dining Style: Prix fixe menu
Characters in Attendance: Ariel & Prince Eric and Rapunzel & Flynn Rider
Price: $45 per adult and $29 per child
Disney’s Perfectly Princess Tea
This one is for the littlest Disney princess fans. Intended for children between ages 3 to 9, along with an adult guest, Disney’s Perfectly Princess Tea at the Grand Floridian Resort is a royal treat. Although it’s the most expensive Disney princess dining option of the bunch, the high cost of admission comes with an assortment of gifts for your little princess or prince, as well as a luncheon plate of teatime treats, music, dancing and storytime. Even Princess Aurora (AKA Sleeping Beauty) makes a surprise appearance.
Meal(s) Offered: Morning tea
Dining Style: Set menu
Characters in Attendance: Aurora
Price: $333.64 for one adult and one child (inclusive of tax and gratuity), $234.08 for each additional guest ages 3 to 9, $98.66 for each additional guest 10 and over
So, What’s the Best Princess Dining Disney World Has to Offer?
Now, the question you’ve all been waiting for: What’s the best character dining with Disney Princesses at Disney World? That really depends on you and your group. To really enjoy character dining with the princesses, you’ll want to choose the one that best suits your needs and interests. For example, if you’re hoping to see characters like Cinderella or Aurora, you have a few different options to choose from. However, if you’re looking for Rapunzel, then the Bon Voyage Breakfast is your best bet. Want to see a slew of princesses for as little money as possible? Then Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is the best character dining option for you.
Pros & Cons of Dining with Disney Princesses During a Disney World Vacation
Not sure if Disney princess dining is right for you? Although there is much to love, there are also other aspects to think about that don’t make it a good fit for everyone. Here are some pros and cons to consider before making your reservation.
They’re More Expensive Than Your Average Meal
As magical as dining with Disney Princesses can be, a regal character meal can, unsurprisingly, come with quite the royal price tag. So, you’ll want to make sure that it fits comfortably within your budget before booking. Keep in mind that a princess breakfast will typically be cheaper than lunch or dinner. And while it isn’t cheap by any means, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is a more affordable alternative to Cinderella’s Royal Table for those hoping to meet all the princesses at once.
They Can Help You Save Time in Line Later
Although the cost of character dining is high, remember that you’re basically doubling up on two things that you would already be doing: meeting Disney characters and eating. As a result, since you will have already met your favorite Disney Princesses during mealtime, you won’t need to wait in line to see them again later. This is particularly valuable because queues to meet the Disney Princesses tend to be quite long, and since time is money at Disney World, this frees you up to tackle other things on your vacation to-do list.
Food Quality Varies Drastically From Location to Location
The Disney Princesses are only half of the equation during character dining. You’ll also need to consider the food quality. While some locations serve dishes fit for royalty (Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White is a great example), others might leave you wishing that you had a fairy godmother to whip you up something better. This is especially true for meals at 1900 Park Fare due to its buffet-style offerings, while folks have also reported being let down by the food at Cinderella’s Royal Table, especially because of the sky-high price tag.
The Theming Can Be Downright Magical
Almost as enchanting as the characters holding court at these princess dining experiences is the theming of the restaurants themselves. While some character dining locations are only lightly themed, such as 1900 Park Fare at Trattoria al Forno, others are immersive spaces that feel as if you’ve been magically transported to your favorite fairy tale—all without leaving Central Florida. After all, why does the magic of Disney need to end when mealtime begins?
Character Dining Isn’t for Everyone
In terms of other atmosphere aspects, if you love being surrounded by families planning out their days and chatting up characters and starry-eyed kids (and adults!) living their best lives as they pose for photos, great! Then character dining at Disney World is right up your alley. However, if you prefer a quieter meal, then you might want to explore other options.
You’ll Likely Have a Better Character Interaction
In our opinion, one of the best parts of character dining is the more personalized attention you get compared to a typical meet-and-greet. Rather than waiting in line for a brief interaction, some photos and an autograph, characters may return to visit your table multiple times. Not to mention, since some meals are hosted by several Disney characters, you’ll not only get a chance to meet a slew of your favorites in one setting, but you’ll also get to see them in action as they interact with their fellow characters, which doesn’t usually happen at regular meet-and-greets.
Tips & Tricks for Disney Princess Character Dining
Ready to make the most of your princess dining experience? These useful tips will help make sure your Disney trip is a royal treat.
Choose Your Disney Princess Character Dining Experience Carefully
With several different Disney princess character meals to choose from, you can afford to be a little picky when deciding which one you want to book. For many, the biggest factors to keep in mind are the character lineup, the kind of food on offer and the overall cost. However, we also recommend that you strategize a bit, depending on your schedule, for the rest of the day.
For example, there are a handful of princess dining options located around Magic Kingdom. But for folks heading to Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios instead, you’re better off with the Bon Voyage Breakfast on Disney’s BoardWalk, as the Disney Skyliner makes getting to both of those theme parks a breeze. Sadly, no princess dining is available near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. So, if you’re going there, then you may want to save that character meal for a different day.
Book Your Reservation Early
Unsurprisingly, dining with the Disney Princesses is incredibly popular. So, if a royal character dining experience is on your must-do list, then you’ll definitely want to make your dining reservations as soon as possible. Dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance through either the My Disney Experience app or the Walt Disney World website, with new booking windows typically becoming available at 6:00 AM daily.
Come Prepared with Autograph Books, Costumes and a Camera
The best way to make the most of your time and money with princess dining—which is definitely something you’re going to want to do, considering the cost—is by showing up prepared. In other words, plan to show up with your autograph book in hand or something else for the princesses to sign. For example, a storybook would be a great option for all the Belle fans out there. Have your camera at the ready for all of the pictures you’ll be taking. And consider having your little one show up in a costume of their favorite Disney princess. (Adults can dress up, too, as long as they comply with Disney guidelines. To really go all out, make a reservation for your kiddo at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique beforehand. Not only will you be looking your best for the camera, but the regal attire will surely give the princesses something to talk about. That brings us to our next suggestion…
Strike Up a Conversation
While you could certainly wait patiently for an autograph, pose for a photo or two, then promptly get back to your meal until the next princess stops by, we highly suggest you don’t, as you’ll be missing out on a huge opportunity to chat with some of Disney’s most popular characters. Instead, take this opportunity to talk to Cinderella or Princess Aurora before they head on to the next table. About what, you might ask. Well, the Disney Princesses love to talk about themselves (they are royalty, after all). So, find out what book Belle has been reading lately or ask Ariel if she’s added any new dinglehoppers to her collection recently. Either way, the experience is bound to be a whole lot more memorable than it would have been otherwise, which, if you ask us, is well worth the high cost of admission.
Consider Splurging on Memory Maker
Speaking of photos, there’s a good chance that you’ll be snapping as many pictures as possible. And although you will need to be your own photographer at most of the character dining options on this list, some of the Disney restaurants with princesses in attendance will have a Disney PhotoPass photographer on hand to help capture every magical moment, like Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom and Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Best of all, not only will any photos taken be sent to your PhotoPass account, but they will also be included with Memory Maker should you decide to purchase it. Priced for either $69 per day or either $169 or $199 for your entire trip, depending on when you purchase it, with unlimited downloads included, we think it’s one heckuva deal, especially with princess dining pictures thrown into the mix.
Alright, Disney fans, that brings our guide to Disney World princess dining to a close. What’s your pick for the best character dining at Disney World with Disney Princesses? Let us know in the comments! Then, learn how you can save on regular park admission with our discount Disney World tickets.
