by Brianna Hill

Created on: August 28, 2009   Last Updated: August 31, 2009

Character Dining at the World Meet & Greet Meets Good Eats

Are you looking to dine with Pluto? Perhaps you are more of a Stitch person? Or maybe, you just want a great option that doesn't break the bank but feeds everyone? Choosing character dining locations at the Walt Disney World Resort can be daunting, but it doesn't have to be. Knowing your family or traveling party's favorite foods and characters are an essential start in choosing the best restaurant. Knowing where the crowds are, and which location offers the most options are what make the difference.

Character dining is, after all, the most popular dining choice on Disney property. Character dining locations can be found all over the Walt Disney World Resort, including its four theme parks and resort hotels. Each location offers a wide variety of menu options, and different Disney characters. For example, at Ohana, located at Disney's Polynesian Resort, guests are treated to a visit from Pluto, Mickey, Lilo & Stitch; all while enjoying a tasty Polynesian and American-inspired breakfast! Character meals are one of the most expensive dining options on property; costing parents anywhere from $25.00 on up per person. For this reason, I recommend booking only one or two character meals per Disney vacation. While the Polynesian breakfast is a top spot on our list, others make the grade as well.

Chef Mickey's, located at Disney's Contemporary Resort, is the most popular character dining location. Guests may notice its popularity when they call six months in advance and still have trouble obtaining a reservation. This restaurant is very popular for a few reasons. Firstly, the location features the most popular Disney characters: Mickey, Goofy, Donald and Pluto. These fun characters are dressed in appropriate chef attire, which make for terrific Kodak moments. Secondly, the all-you-can-eat buffet is open for both breakfast and dinner, and includes kid-friendly entrees such as baked macaroni and cheese, corn dogs, fresh fruit, and more. An early priority reservation for this location is highly recommended and can be made up to 60 days in advance.

We've covered two of the most popular, so let's talk about a secret gem for a moment. With so many families flocking to Chef Mickey's, lesser known locations are easier to book. One of these is often over-looked locations is 1900 Park Fare. This restaurant is located at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. 1900 Park Fare is open for breakfast, afternoon

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