
At Walt Disney World, there’s no shortage of magical experiences, especially when it comes to dining with Disney Princesses. Two standout experiences, located in the heart of Magic Kingdom’s Fantasyland, are Cinderella’s Royal Table and Be Our Guest Restaurant. Each one offers its own unique touch of fairy-tale charm, allowing guests to dine like royalty in enchanting castle settings.
But if you only have time for one, which should you choose? Let’s dive into the details of both to help you decide which dining experience will make your Disney trip truly unforgettable.
Cinderella’s Royal Table: Dining Inside the Iconic Castle
Cinderella’s Royal Table is nestled inside Cinderella Castle, Magic Kingdom’s most iconic landmark. It’s the perfect spot for fans of Cinderella, Walt Disney’s favorite princess. Here, guests are treated to a character dining experience with visits from Cinderella and other Disney Princesses. With elegant American-style dishes like Spice-rubbed Pork Tenderloin and Parisian Gnocchi, every meal here feels like a royal banquet.
- Dining Times: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with reservation slots that fill up fast.
- Cuisine: American, with a refined touch, served in an upscale yet welcoming environment.
- Special Experience: Character meet-and-greets with Disney Princesses, ensuring magical moments for guests of all ages.
Insider Tip: A reservation is not just suggested but essential at Cinderella’s Royal Table. This exclusive experience is highly sought after, so plan well in advance!
Be Our Guest Restaurant: A French Feast in the Beast’s Castle
Just a short walk from Cinderella Castle is Be Our Guest Restaurant, a celebration of Belle and Beast from Beauty and the Beast. While it isn’t guaranteed character dining, diners might spot the Beast himself wandering through the restaurant. Guests can choose from three beautifully themed rooms: The Grand Ballroom, The West Wing, and The Rose Gallery, each capturing the enchantment of the Beast’s castle.
- Dining Times: Lunch and dinner, with a fixed-price menu for dinner.
- Cuisine: American and French-inspired, featuring dishes like Trout Amandine and Roasted Poulet Rouge Chicken.
- Special Experience: The possibility of a surprise visit from the Beast and three distinct rooms that make every visit a unique experience.
Insider Tip: Be Our Guest offers takeout options, so even if you can’t snag a reservation, you can still enjoy a taste of the experience.
Key Differences: Character Dining vs. Themed Atmosphere
The primary distinction between Cinderella’s Royal Table and Be Our Guest Restaurant lies in the character interactions. Cinderella’s Royal Table provides guaranteed meet-and-greet opportunities with various Disney Princesses, while Be Our Guest occasionally has the Beast visiting but doesn’t offer dedicated character dining.
Additionally, Be Our Guest’s three themed dining rooms each provide a different experience. The Grand Ballroom captures the opulent feel of the Beast’s world, while the West Wing offers a darker, more mysterious vibe. In contrast, Cinderella’s Royal Table is a single dining room with a classic, elegant atmosphere, focusing on the Disney Princess experience and leaving each guest feeling like part of Cinderella’s world.
Guest Reviews: Why Fans Love Each Restaurant
Guests often note that Cinderella’s Royal Table is a “must-do” for fans of character dining, especially for families with children who are excited to meet multiple Disney Princesses. The elevated castle views add a level of charm, particularly during sunset, making it a top choice for memorable photos.
Be Our Guest Restaurant fans appreciate the detailed theming and the immersive dining experience in the Beast’s castle. Many enjoy exploring the different rooms, with the West Wing standing out as a guest favorite.
Deciding Factors: Which Dining Experience is Right for You?
If you’re debating between the two, here are a few deciding factors:
- For Character Meet-and-Greets: If meeting a Disney Princess is your top priority, Cinderella’s Royal Table is the way to go. The guaranteed character interactions make it a sure bet for Disney character enthusiasts.
- For Themed Dining Ambiance: For those who appreciate detailed theming and immersive settings, Be Our Guest Restaurant offers an experience that transports you right into the Beast’s world. The varied dining areas add to the allure, making each visit a new adventure.
- For a Unique Disney Dining Experience: Both restaurants offer distinct, unforgettable experiences that allow guests to dine as if they’re part of a Disney fairytale. Trying both can give you a comprehensive taste of Disney’s commitment to storytelling and character-driven dining.
Final Verdict:
Ultimately, both Cinderella’s Royal Table and Be Our Guest Restaurant deliver exceptional Disney magic, each with its own unique highlights. Cinderella’s Royal Table shines for families and fans who dream of dining with Disney Princesses, while Be Our Guest Restaurant stands out for its enchanting atmosphere and elegant French cuisine. Disney veterans often recommend experiencing both at least once, as each offers its own brand of magic that enhances any Disney World vacation.
So, which Disney Princess dining experience will you choose? Share your favorite magical dining experience in the comments below!