[tammysbowman]

We just returned from our trip where we had dinner at 1900 Park Fare with Cinderella, Prince Charming, Perla and the Fairy Godmother (greeter).

I thought that the food was good with a large selection and variety.

I would forewarn you though, that I was told it could take up to 1-1 1/2 hours for the characters to make it to your table. Unfortunately, we were there for almost that 1 1/2 hour! This makes it difficult for small children. I found that my children can make it about 45 minutes and then you need a back-up entertainment plan!

If your child(ren) really want to see Cinderalla, it is probably more time efficient to see her at Mickey's Toon Town in the Judge's tent. She actually has more time with the children there, where at dinner all you get is a quick picture and autograph. Suzy and Perla are also there, but if they want to see Prince Charming or the Fairy Godmother you will need to do the dinner.

[Dana]

Unfortunately that is the case with most character meals. They have to work the entire room, one table at a time and it can be time consuming. The benefit is, instead of waiting for an hour in line out in the sun, you get to wait an hour while you eat. I much prefer to wait indoors and while I'm eating a meal I was going to take time to eat anyway. I guess it may be harder with smaller children. For some reason, it was always easier to entertain my DD in the restaurant as opposed to ourside in a long line. All children are different. I'm glad you all enjoyed your meal. 1900 is a great meal.

[dznygrl]

I agree, 1900 Park Fare is wonderful. If you are really going to enjoy it, don't give yourself a time limit--you will feel much less stressed if you can relax and let your food settle and enjoy the atmosphere while you wait between characters. Personally, I'm glad when the characters aren't at the table every five seconds! At least then you are able to shove some food in your stomach before smiling for the camera.

[llama]

It's really interesting reading all the threads about character dining. I'm tempted to try for a reservation at CRT breakfast just for the challenge of it. (I won't - I'll leave that table free for the little ones)

While WDW always continue to grow and new and wonderful things are always added, I'm kind of grateful that my kids are past the character stage. When they were little, there were never any kinds of these problems. The meals were never crowded and the characters were readily available. We WALKED into CRT one morning with no reservation and were immediately seated. I guess it says something for the good old days.

[joseph3947]

We were there in May and there was a cast member walking around asking if anyone wanted to eat at the Castle (CRT) because there were openings in the reservation schedule.
I think it was around 8 P.M. and people were starting to pick spots for the parade. I guess it all depends on the time of year, the time of day, and luck! We didn't use the opportunity but we have eaten there in the past. It's a great dinner. Have a Magical day! Joe:)