My Favorite Character Dining at Disney World (and it isn’t Chef Mickey’s or Cinderella’s Royal Table)
By Joel Parker
If you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World, you’re likely envisioning some quintessential experiences: enchanting rides, captivating shows, and of course, a hearty dose of character meet-and-greets.
Nestled inside Disney's Beach Club Resort, Cape May Café is a hidden gem. With a delightful mix of delicious food, whimsical character interactions, and a laid-back coastal vibe, this breakfast is an experience that perfectly balances the high-energy excitement of Disney with a relaxed atmosphere.
The Characters: Adorable, but No Mickey!
While Mickey may be the face of Disney, the Cape May Café offers a refreshing change from the norm by focusing on other beloved characters from the “Fab Five.” During the Cape May Café’s Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast, you’ll meet Minnie Mouse and a few of her best pals.
Typical characters include Minnie Mouse, Goofy, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck in their adorable beach-themed outfits. Like all other character experiences at Walt Disney World, characters are subject to change.
Unlike some character meals, which can feel hurried or crowded, the atmosphere at Cape May Café allows for relaxed, fun interactions with each character. Each table is visited by the characters, giving you ample time for autographs, photos, and unique moments. Since the seating capacity is smaller compared to larger venues like Chef Mickey’s, the interaction feels more personal and intimate.
For guests hoping to meet Mickey, it’s worth noting that Mickey Mouse doesn’t make an appearance at this particular breakfast. However, the delightful cast of characters more than makes up for his absence with their vibrant personalities and beachy flair. It’s a refreshing alternative, especially for those who’ve had plenty of Mickey moments elsewhere in the parks.
The Food: A Feast for All Ages
The characters aren’t the only star at Cape May Café’s breakfast. The buffet-style dining experience combines traditional breakfast favorites with unique options. Upon entering the beach-themed restaurant, you're greeted by the inviting scent of freshly prepared breakfast classics. The buffet is brimming with choices to satisfy any appetite, from children excited to fill their plates with Mickey (and Minnie) waffles to adults seeking heartier fare.
Some of the standout items on the buffet include:
Salted Caramel “Beach Buns”: Exclusive to Cape May Café, a pull-apart bread, dusted with powdered sugar, coated in caramel and served with a side of vanilla cream. It is delicious and will leave you asking for seconds.
Mickey (and Minnie) Waffles: It wouldn’t be a Disney breakfast without these iconic waffles, golden and crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside.
Croissants & Crepes: If you are looking for a bit of French flair, croissants and chocolate and berry crepes are available and delicious.
Customizable Omelet Station: For those wanting something cooked just for them, the omelet station offers a variety of ingredients so you can build your perfect breakfast creation.
Breakfast Classics: For those looking for morning staples, scrambled eggs, eggs benedict, and a variety of muffins, pancakes, french toast are also available on the buffet.
A key point to note is that Cape May Café caters well to guests with dietary restrictions, including gluten-free and dairy-free options. Don’t hesitate to ask the chef or staff if you need accommodations — they’ll ensure you’re taken care of!
With so many choices, the buffet appeals to both picky eaters and adventurous foodies alike.
A Perfect Start to a day at EPCOT
One of the great advantages of dining at Cape May Café is its prime location within Disney’s Beach Club Resort, just a short stroll away from EPCOT. After enjoying a character-filled breakfast, you can take a leisurely 5-10 minute walk to EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance, located near World Showcase.
This lesser-known, more relaxed entry point allows you to bypass the crowds at the main entrance, giving you easy access to the World Showcase. It's the perfect way to fuel up for the day and seamlessly transition from a fun breakfast with Minnie and pals to rope dropping Remy's Ratatouille Adventure in the France Pavilion or Frozen Ever After over in the Norway Pavilion.
Tips for an Enjoyable Visit
If you’re planning on making Cape May Café’s Character Breakfast a part of your Disney vacation, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:
Book in Advance: As with any Disney dining experience, reservations are highly recommended. You can make reservations up to 60 days in advance, and this meal can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
Arrive Early: If you can snag an early reservation, you’ll be able to maximize your time at breakfast before heading out for a full day in the parks.
Character Timing: Keep your camera and autograph book ready, as the characters visit each table at regular intervals. You won’t want to miss your chance to meet Minnie, Goofy, Donald or Daisy!
Dietary Restrictions: If you have any dietary needs, notify the staff when you check in. Disney is well known for accommodating food allergies and preferences, and Cape May Café is no exception.
Why You Shouldn't Miss It
Cape May Café’s Character Breakfast is a delightful, laid-back alternative to some of the more chaotic Disney dining experiences. With its coastal charm, delicious buffet, and enchanting character interactions, it offers a unique Disney breakfast that feels a little more intimate, without compromising the magic.
Whether you're staying at the Beach Club Resort or simply popping over for a character-filled start to your day, the Cape May Café’s Character Breakfast is a must-visit for any Disney fan. While you may not see Mickey here, the charming beach bash with Minnie and friends will leave you with lasting memories and a full heart — not to mention a full stomach!
About the Author:
For nearly 10 years Joel helped make dreams come true as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World Resort. Today, he uses his knowledge to help families craft an unforgettable Disney vacation or cruise adventure. To start planning your next Disney vacation go to GenieGetaways.com, or fill out Joel’s quote request form below.