Plaza Inn at Disneyland Resort offers a unique character dining experience during breakfast hours. Guests can enjoy a delicious meal while interacting with beloved Disney characters, including Minnie Mouse and her friends. The character breakfast at Plaza Inn provides an opportunity for memorable photos, hugs, and fun interactions with various Disney personalities.

Located on Main Street, U.S.A. in Disneyland Park, Plaza Inn features charming 19th-century decor with Victorian stained glass and ornate woodwork. The restaurant’s bright and airy atmosphere, enhanced by large windows, creates an ideal setting for character encounters and family gatherings.

As of January 2025, the Plaza Inn character breakfast is priced at $50 for adults and $30 for children aged 3-9, plus tax. The experience includes a variety of breakfast options and the chance to meet multiple characters throughout the meal. Reservations are recommended, as this popular dining option tends to fill up quickly.

Overview of the Plaza Inn Character Breakfast

Plaza Inn hosts a beloved character dining experience at Disneyland Park. This unique breakfast offers guests the chance to meet Minnie Mouse and her friends while enjoying a buffet-style meal in a charming Victorian-era setting.

Historical Significance of Plaza Inn

Plaza Inn opened in 1955 as part of Disneyland’s original Main Street, U.S.A. The restaurant’s elegant architecture was inspired by the Victorian era, reflecting Walt Disney’s vision for the park. Initially known as the Red Wagon Inn, it was renamed Plaza Inn in 1965.

Today, Plaza Inn continues to be a popular dining destination, especially for its character breakfast. The restaurant’s rich history and prime location near the hub of Disneyland Park make it a special place for guests to start their day.

The Unique Appeal of Character Dining

Character dining at Plaza Inn offers a magical experience for guests of all ages. Visitors can enjoy a hearty breakfast buffet while interacting with beloved Disney characters. Minnie Mouse serves as the main host, often joined by other classic characters.

The character meet-and-greets are a highlight of the meal. Characters circulate through the dining area, stopping at each table for photos, autographs, and playful interactions. This personal touch creates lasting memories for families and fans alike.

The breakfast buffet features a variety of options, including Mickey-shaped waffles, made-to-order omelets, and fresh fruit. The combination of delicious food and character encounters makes Plaza Inn a popular choice for Disneyland visitors.

Booking Your Experience

Securing a spot at Plaza Inn’s character breakfast requires advance planning. Guests can make reservations through multiple channels and should consider optimal timing for their visit.

How to Make Dining Reservations

Reservations for Plaza Inn’s character breakfast can be made up to 60 days in advance. The Disneyland app offers the most convenient method for booking. Simply open the app, select “Dining,” and choose Plaza Inn from the list of restaurants.

Alternatively, guests can book online through the Disneyland website or call the dining reservation line. Magic Key holders may have access to earlier reservation windows, depending on their pass type.

It’s advisable to book as soon as the reservation window opens, especially during peak seasons. Walk-up availability is limited and not guaranteed.

Best Times to Visit for Breakfast

Plaza Inn’s character breakfast typically runs from park opening until late morning. Early reservations, around 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM, often provide a more relaxed dining experience with shorter wait times for character interactions.

Mid-morning slots can be busier but allow guests to enjoy the park’s atmosphere before entering. Late morning bookings may offer a less crowded experience as many visitors have already entered the park.

Weekdays generally have lower attendance compared to weekends. Avoiding major holidays and school breaks can also lead to a more enjoyable experience.

Dining Reservation Tips

Set a reminder for 60 days before your visit to secure your preferred time slot. Be flexible with dates and times to increase booking chances.

Check the Disneyland app regularly for cancellations if your desired time is unavailable. Last-minute openings often appear.

Consider booking on non-park days to potentially access earlier park entry. This strategy can maximize your time in Disneyland.

Have all party members’ information ready when booking. Special dietary requests should be noted during the reservation process.

Arrive 15 minutes early to check in and ensure a smooth start to your character dining experience.

Meet the Characters

The Plaza Inn character breakfast offers guests a chance to interact with beloved Disney characters in a relaxed setting. Minnie Mouse hosts the event, joined by a rotating cast of friends who roam the restaurant for photos and fun encounters.

Main Characters You’ll Encounter

Minnie Mouse is the star of the show, greeting guests in her signature polka dot dress. Other characters frequently seen include Pluto, Chip, Dale, and various Disney friends. The lineup changes daily, adding an element of surprise to each visit.

Characters circulate throughout the dining area, stopping at tables for individual interactions. Guests can expect 4-6 different characters during their meal. Popular appearances include Winnie the Pooh, Tigger, Eeyore, and classic Disney characters like Goofy or Donald Duck.

Photographing Your Encounters

Disney PhotoPass photographers are on hand to capture professional shots with characters. These photos can be purchased individually or accessed with a PhotoPass package. Guests are also welcome to take their own pictures using personal cameras or smartphones.

For the best photos, choose a well-lit spot near a window. Have your camera ready before the character approaches. Consider group shots as well as individual poses with each character. Don’t forget to capture candid moments of interaction for memorable keepsakes.

Character Interaction Tips

To maximize character encounters, arrive early in the breakfast service when characters are fresh and lines are shorter. Be ready when characters approach your table – have cameras prepared and autograph books open.

Engage with the characters through playful gestures or by asking simple questions. They communicate non-verbally but are skilled at pantomime and expressive reactions. Children can show characters their Disney-themed clothing or accessories for fun interactions.

Remember that characters rotate, so if you miss one, they may return later in your meal. Don’t hesitate to ask a Cast Member if you’re hoping to meet a specific character – they can often provide timing estimates.

The Breakfast Buffet

Plaza Inn offers a diverse breakfast buffet with classic favorites and special dietary options. The spread features both hot and cold items to satisfy various tastes and preferences.

Signature Dishes and Favorites

Mickey waffles reign supreme as the most iconic dish at Plaza Inn’s breakfast buffet. These golden, crispy waffles shaped like Mickey Mouse delight guests of all ages. Made-to-order omelets allow diners to customize their breakfast with a variety of fillings.

The buffet also includes scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and breakfast potatoes. For those with a sweet tooth, an assortment of pastries, muffins, and Danish are available. Fresh fruit, yogurt, and cereal provide lighter options.

Surprisingly, Plaza Inn’s famous fried chicken makes an appearance on the breakfast menu. This unique offering sets the buffet apart from typical morning fare.

Special Dietary Accommodations

Plaza Inn caters to guests with food allergies and dietary restrictions. Gluten-free items are clearly marked on the buffet. Staff members are trained to assist with allergen information and can guide guests to suitable options.

Vegetarian choices include oatmeal, fruit, and plant-based milk alternatives. The omelet station can prepare egg-white options for health-conscious diners. Guests with severe allergies or complex dietary needs can speak with a chef to ensure safe meal preparation.

Quality and Freshness of Offerings

The buffet prioritizes quality and freshness in its offerings. Hot foods are regularly replenished to maintain optimal temperature and taste. Chefs prepare items in small batches throughout the morning to ensure freshness.

Seasonal fruit selections rotate based on availability. Pastries and bread items are baked fresh daily. The made-to-order omelet station guarantees eggs cooked to each guest’s preference.

While the all-you-care-to-eat format allows for quantity, Plaza Inn maintains a focus on quality. Staff members actively monitor the buffet, quickly addressing any issues to maintain high standards throughout the breakfast service.

Additional Character Dining Options

Disneyland Resort offers several character dining experiences beyond Plaza Inn. Each venue provides unique menus, character interactions, and atmospheres for guests to enjoy.

Goofy’s Kitchen and Its Offerings

Goofy’s Kitchen, located in the Disneyland Hotel, serves character meals throughout the day. Breakfast and dinner buffets feature a wide variety of dishes, including Mickey-shaped waffles and Goofy’s famous peanut butter pizza. Characters like Goofy, Pluto, and Chip ‘n’ Dale often make appearances.

Guests can expect lively interactions and photo opportunities with characters as they circulate through the restaurant. The buffet-style service allows diners to sample multiple dishes and return for favorites. Goofy’s Kitchen also offers a brunch option on select days, combining breakfast and lunch items.

Storytellers Café’s Unique Experience

Storytellers Café in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa hosts Mickey’s Tales of Adventure Character Breakfast. This buffet features classic breakfast items alongside unique California-inspired dishes. Characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Chip ‘n’ Dale visit tables in their adventurer outfits.

The restaurant’s rustic decor creates a cozy atmosphere reminiscent of a national park lodge. Storytellers Café also serves lunch and dinner without characters, offering a different dining experience later in the day.

Comparing Different Dining Adventures

Each character dining location offers distinct experiences. Goofy’s Kitchen provides the most meal options throughout the day. Storytellers Café offers a more intimate setting with its woodland theme. The Disney Princess Breakfast Adventure at Napa Rose caters to princess fans with royal interactions and activities.

Menu variety differs between locations. Goofy’s Kitchen is known for its eclectic mix, while Storytellers Café focuses on California cuisine. Character lineups vary, with some locations featuring more rare characters. Pricing and reservation availability also differ, with some experiences being more in demand than others.

Tickets and Admission

Accessing the Plaza Inn character breakfast requires careful planning regarding park admission and dining reservations. Guests must navigate specific ticket requirements to enjoy this popular Disneyland experience.

Park Admission Requirements

Valid Disneyland Park admission is mandatory for all guests attending the Plaza Inn character breakfast. This requirement applies to everyone ages 3 and older. A theme park reservation for Disneyland Park on the same date as the breakfast is also essential. Dining reservations alone do not guarantee park entry. Guests should secure their park tickets and reservations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.

Combining Dining and Park Tickets

Booking a character breakfast at Plaza Inn before the park opens can offer a unique experience. Early reservation times allow guests to enter Main Street, U.S.A. with fewer crowds, creating photo opportunities. Some ticket packages may include dining options. Guests can inquire about combo deals that bundle park admission with character dining experiences.

When planning, consider:

• Purchasing multi-day tickets for extended visits
• Checking for seasonal promotions or discounts
• Exploring annual pass options for frequent visitors

It’s important to note that dining charges apply to all guests for the character breakfast experience, regardless of age or ticket type.

Capturing Your Memories

Preserving magical moments at the Plaza Inn character breakfast is essential. Guests have several options to document their experiences with beloved Disney characters.

Using Disneyland’s Photo Services

Disneyland offers PhotoPass services during character meet-and-greets at Plaza Inn. Professional photographers are stationed at key locations to capture high-quality images of guests interacting with Minnie Mouse and friends.

PhotoPass photographers use advanced equipment to ensure crisp, well-lit photos. They can take both individual and group shots.

Guests receive a PhotoPass card or can link photos to their Disneyland app for easy access. This service allows families to fully enjoy their character interactions without worrying about taking pictures themselves.

Purchasing Photo Downloads

After the breakfast, guests can view their PhotoPass images at designated kiosks throughout the park or on the Disneyland app. Photos are available for individual purchase or as part of photo packages.

Disney offers various digital download options, including single-day passes and longer-term Memory Maker products. These allow unlimited downloads of all PhotoPass pictures taken during a visit or vacation.

Purchasing photo downloads ensures guests have professional-quality images to remember their Plaza Inn character breakfast experience. Photos can be easily shared on social media or printed for framing.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Maximizing your Plaza Inn character breakfast experience requires planning and strategy. Knowing when to arrive, how to navigate crowds, and ways to enhance the visit for children can greatly improve your time at this popular Disneyland dining spot.

Arrival and Seating Strategies

Make reservations 60 days in advance, especially for peak times. Arrive 15-20 minutes early to check in and get a photo with Minnie Mouse before entering. Request a table near character paths for more interaction time. Indoor seating offers air conditioning, while the outdoor patio provides a view of Main Street. Consider an early reservation to enjoy shorter lines for attractions after breakfast.

Reservation Tips:

• Book online or through the Disneyland app
• Check for cancellations if preferred times are unavailable
• Provide any dietary restrictions when booking

Navigating Crowds and Wait Times

Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends. Expect longer waits during school breaks and holidays. The buffet line moves quickly, but plan for potential delays during peak hours. Characters rotate throughout the restaurant, so remain at your table to ensure you meet them all.

Wait Time Strategies:

• Visit the buffet when characters are far from your table
• Take turns getting food so someone is always present for character interactions
• Use restrooms before entering to maximize dining time

Enjoying the Experience with Children

Bring autograph books and pens for character signatures. Encourage kids to dress up as their favorite Disney characters. Prepare children for potential character encounters to reduce anxiety. The breakfast menu includes kid-friendly options like Mickey waffles and scrambled eggs.

Child-Friendly Tips:

• Pack small toys or coloring books for entertainment between character visits
• Explain the buffet process to children before arriving
• Take photos of kids with characters using your own camera as well as PhotoPass