Chef Mickey’s tends to get a bad rep for some reason – people don’t like to dine there apparently, but I have to say – I LOVE it there! And I want you to love it too, so read on for my reasons why Chef Mickey’s is a “Must Dine At” Walt Disney World Restaurant:

(Extremely) Family Friendly: As a parent of a toddler, I know just how challenging dining out with little ones can be – but worry not, as Chef Mickey’s is perfect for those of all ages, including the little ones! It’s got colorful décor, and it tends to be loud and busy – so even if your little one is prone to meltdowns, you certainly won’t have all eyes on you as you try to peel your child off the floor (who hasn’t been there, right?). The wait staff is always great with kids, and super helpful too. Oh, and another huge plus for the little ones – the CHARACTERS! Which brings me to my next item –

The Fab Five: Chef Mickey’s is a Character Meal which means that while you dine, you get the chance to meet and greet with some of your favorite Disney characters! The “fab five” are rarely all in the same place at the same time, but Chef Mickey’s has them ALL – Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto – all dressed adorably in their “chef clothes, of course! They all circulate the dining room going table to table for autographs, photo ops, and they are always up for hugs too! I don’t care how old you are – the sight of Mickey Mouse approaching your table is always guaranteed to make you smile, it’s like spotting a real life celebrity!

The Location: The restaurant is located in the Disney’s Contemporary Resort – which is one of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts and is a great place to stay (or just to eat at, too!). You can take the monorail there (which is always a fun trip!), and the monorail stop is actually inside the hotel itself – it’s pretty cool and the little ones will love it! I also like to stroll around the Resort after I dine at Chef Mickey’s – browse in the stores, walk along the water, and then just another quick monorail ride and I’m back in the Magic (Kingdom that is!)

FOOD: Now, I think the food is the reason many people choose to NOT dine here, but to be honest – that just means more for me, as I think those people are NUTS! I LOVE the food here and always have! It’s served buffet style, which means there is a TON of variety and items to choose from (a plus for those picky eaters in your party – even they will find something they like!), and I have always found it to be fresh and delicious without fail. Breakfast has offerings like oatmeal, fruit salad, frittatas, potatoes, meats, and assorted pastries, while dinner’s menu includes carved meats, fish, sides of vegetables and salads, and a make your own ice cream sundae bar (a personal favorite of mine). I have always loved everything I have eaten here, and I think you will too!

Chef Mickey’s is on my list of “Must Dine” spots when I head to Walt Disney World – and if you haven’t tried it, hopefully the above reasons will convince you to check it out!