50th Birthday Meal

[Cinderelley]

I'm taking my friend to Disneyland for his 50th bday. It has been several years, since I have been there. I am thinking of booking Goofy's Kitchen for his Birthday. How is this character meal? Is there a restaurant you guys think would be better? He's definitely not a foodie, but I want something a bit more special than counter service.

[VWL Mom]

Can anyone help Cinderelley out?

[tinkwest]

Does he prefer character meal type atmosphere? If that is the case that might be fun.

Personally I would choose Carthay Circle. The last time we were there we sat right by the kitchen and I thought it was fun to watch all of the activity involved with getting the food out. If that's not your thing there are quieter seating areas. (I am assuming you will have tickets to DCA when I make this suggestion.)

[Cinderelley]

Thank you VWL Mom.

I did look at Carthay Circle, but the menu isn't something he would enjoy. The character interaction is definitely something he would like though.
I was also thinking about Ariel's Grotto for the princesses (yes he likes the princesses).
Any thoughts?

[tinkwest]

We don't frequent character meals now that our kids are grown but 15 years ago we used to always start our Disneyland vacations with a meal at Goofy's Kitchen (I think at the time it might have been the only character meal). It was always a fun atmosphere with plenty of character interaction.

Our experiences at PCH Grill character dining over the years have gone from "the best ever" to "a waste of time and money". We have never tried character dining at Plaza Inn or Ariel's Grotto.

The character meal we have had recently is the breakfast at Storyteller's Cafe. We don't go to see the characters (although we enjoy the fact that they stop by the table to say hello even when it is just two adults), but to enjoy the food - which is your choice of buffet or menu items. I think it is a more subdued atmosphere than Goofy's.

I hope someone with more recent experience at Goofy's or Ariel's will stop by anc give their opinions.