10 Must‑Visit Character Dining Experiences in Orlando
Imagine dining alongside princesses, superheroes, and even real astronauts at Orlando’s premier character‑dining venues. From enchanted breakfasts to space‑themed buffets, these experiences blend culinary delight with unforgettable meet‑and‑greet moments.
With more than 5,000 restaurants in the area, Orlando’s dining scene is already adventurous—now it’s elevated by beloved characters who bring stories to life at the table. The following 10 standout venues combine family‑friendly menus with rigorous health and sanitization protocols, ensuring a safe and memorable meal for all ages.
Please note: Character appearances are subject to change. Depending on your visit, some experiences may be temporarily modified or closed. Images may not reflect current versions or updated safety guidelines. Check each venue’s status and learn more about healthy travel and what’s open in Orlando.
Character Dining at Walt Disney World® Resort
Please note: Guests may meet the Disney Characters listed here during their visit to Walt Disney World Resort. However, keep in mind that Walt Disney World character appearances are subject to change.
Princess Storybook Dining at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall
Located in EPCOT’s Norway Pavilion, this castle‑themed venue offers Norwegian cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Disney Princesses such as Snow White, Cinderella, Belle, Aurora, and Ariel appear for meet‑and‑greet and photo opportunities.
Character‑Buffet at The Crystal Palace
Escape the Hundred‑Acre Wood and dine at this iconic Magic Kingdom restaurant inspired by Victorian greenhouses. Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Piglet, and friends visit for autographs, photos, and laughs while you enjoy classic American fare.
‘Ohana’s Best Friends Breakfast with Lilo & Stitch
At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the family‑style breakfast features Hawaiian flavors and a chance to pose with Lilo and Stitch. The menu includes scrambled eggs, island‑style fried potatoes, Hawaiian pork sausages, ham, fresh fruit, and bread.
Supercalifragilistic Breakfast, Wonderland Tea Party, and Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner at 1900 Park Fare
Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers three character experiences. Breakfast brings Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter, Tigger, and Winnie the Pooh. Dinner features Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, Anastasia, and Drizella.
On weekdays, Alice‑in‑Wonderland characters host an hour‑long unbirthday tea party with apple‑juice “tea,” cupcake decorating, crafts, and photos.
Chef Mickey’s Fun‑Time Buffet
Disney’s Contemporary Resort hosts this family‑style buffet, where classic characters—Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto, and Goofy—make appearances. The 90‑foot mural by Mary Blair overlooks the dining area.
Bonus tip: Character dining is also available at Ravello, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.
Character Dining at Universal Orlando Resort
Marvel Character Dinner
Marvel Super‑Hero Island offers superhero dining at Café 4™. Meet Captain America, Spider‑Man, Wolverine, Cyclops, Storm, and Rogue beginning at 5 p.m. Thursday–Sunday.
Despicable Me Character Breakfast
Loews Royal Pacific Resort hosts a Saturday breakfast featuring Gru, Margo, Edith, Agnes, and the Minions.
The Grinch & Friends™ Character Breakfast
During the holiday season, Circus McGurkus Café Stoo‑pendous hosts The Grinch, who stops by each table for photos and, rumor has it, occasionally steals bacon.
Dining with Sea Life at SeaWorld® Orlando
SeaWorld Dining
Experience “Dine With Orcas,” a family‑friendly meal that includes an educational segment on the park’s rescued killer whales. Sharks Underwater Grill offers an upscale setting with a live shark view.
Astronaut Dining at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Dine With an Astronaut
When available, this unique experience lets you enjoy a chef‑prepared buffet while an actual astronaut shares insights from space missions. Meet the astronaut, ask questions, and capture a photo.
Stay Connected to Orlando!
Never miss a second of what happens in Orlando! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube for the latest offers, exclusive tips, and live feeds. Subscribe to our eNewsletter for more information from the Theme Park Capital of the World.
