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Cinderella’s Royal Table lunch & dinner review: is it worth it?

Cinderella’s Royal Table lunch & dinner review: is it worth it?

When you think of Magic Kingdom, you think of Cinderella Castle. It’s the first thing you see when you make the loop around Town Square and head down Main Street, U.S.A.

Boom! There she is in all her glory. So, what if you could dine inside the magnificent beauty?

Well, you can! Cinderella’s Royal Table gives guests of all ages the chance to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner inside the castle — and meet several princesses during the meal, including the one and only Cinderella.

  • Important: This is currently the most expensive character meal at Disney World and unlike most other restaurants on property, you must pay in full at the time of booking. If you don’t cancel in time (at least 2 hours prior to your reservation time), you will forfeit the full cost of the experience — per person.

For all three meals, you’re served a prix-fixe menu. If you’re debating whether or not to book lunch or dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table, know that the experience, food, and pricing detailed below are exactly the same. The breakfast menu and pricing is different.

We had lunch at Cinderella’s Royal Table on August 12, 2023. Here’s how our dining experience went.

The basics

  • Date we dined at Cinderella’s Royal Table: Saturday, August 12, 2023
  • Meal we booked: Lunch
  • Time: 12:35 p.m.
  • Lunch price (plus tax and gratuity): $79 per adult and $49 per child (ages 3 to 9)

Cinderella’s Royal Table

cinderella at cinderella's royal table

Location type: Character Dining
Characters (can vary, but typically includes a combination of several of these): Ariel, Cinderella, Aurora, Snow White, Jasmine and sometimes Merida
Type of food: American
Meals Served: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  • On the Disney Dining Plan? Yes, 2 table service credits
  • Pros: The experience, view, and characters (which include Ariel, Aurora, Cinderella, Snow White, and Jasmine), are all good. Food has improved over the years.
  • Cons: Expensive, waits can be long to get in even with a reservation.

How we got a Cinderella’s Royal Table reservation

Cinderella’s Royal Table is a popular dining choice for obvious reasons. Many guests want to dine inside the castle. So, you should book this one immediately. No matter the restaurant, we highly recommend booking dining reservations as soon as possible.

Reservations for all the restaurants at Disney World currently open up exactly 60 days in advance — and you should book dining as soon as you can.

reservation for cinderella's royal table

Grabbing dining reservations at Disney World is extremely competitive. We snagged our Cinderella’s Royal Table reservation 34 days prior to our trip.

You never know when there will be availability, but the most surefire way to get any reservation is booking 60 days before your trip begins.

Other ways to score a Cinderella’s Royal Table dining reservation

Set dining alerts

If you don’t get a dinner reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table want to try to book one last minute, try setting up a dining alert.

Reservation finding services are built to constantly check for openings at restaurants that you choose. Depending on the service, you can receive an email and/or text alert or a push notification when something becomes available.

Keep checking

You can also keeping checking yourself to see if anything opens up. We’ve had a lot of luck with this method. Trust us when we say reservations become available all the time — even the day of!

Join the waitlist

Many Disney World restaurants also have a waitlist option that you can either join in the My Disney Experience app or in person.

If you don’t have luck snagging a reservation, this might be your next best bet. But, keep in mind, it’s not always a guarantee.

Checking in

Like with many Table Service restaurants across Disney World, you are able to check in for dining reservations 20 minutes prior using the My Disney Experience app.

screenshot of check in for cinderella's royal table

If you check in via the app, you can only do so up to 20 minutes prior to your reservation time. For our 12:35 p.m. lunch on August 12, 2023, we checked in at 12:15 p.m.

We walked over to the restaurant and found a long line, as you can see below. Some of these people already had reservations, whereas others were putting their names on the walk-up list.

check in line for cinderella's royal table

When we finally made it to the front of the line, we gave our name to the Cast Member working who told us that we were all checked in and could go sit inside until our table was ready.

While we waited, we got in line to meet Cinderella (keep reading for more details on meeting her). She doesn’t come to your table, rather diners meet her prior to their meal. PhotoPass is also available. The restaurant has this all timed and it usually goes pretty smoothly.

After we met Cinderella at 12:37 p.m., we waited about 20 minutes until our name was called at 12:55 p.m. Keep in mind that you probably won’t sit down to eat until 20 to 30 minutes after your reservation time due to meeting Cinderella and this being a busier character meal.

What’s included at Cinderella’s Royal Table lunch and dinner

Let’s take a look at what’s included during lunch and dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table…

Cinderella’s Royal Table 3-course prix-fixe lunch and dinner includes:

  • One appetizer
  • One entrée
  • One dessert
  • Beverages (all alcoholic drinks cost extra)

You also get to meet a range of princesses (they all sign autographs, and we were also given an autograph card).

cinderella's royal table autograph card


This is the other side of the card and how pretty is this? It’s like a mosaic of Cinderella!

cinderella's royal table autograph card

During our visit, we met the following princesses:

  • Ariel
  • Aurora
  • Jasmine
  • Snow White

There’s the special bonus of:

  • A PhotoPass photo with Cinderella (more on this below)

PhotoPass with Cinderella

While you don’t get to take a PhotoPass photo with the other princesses, you get to take a nice picture with Cinderella. After all, it is her castle and dining experience.

The photo opportunity takes place inside the castle and before you even sit down for your meal. It’s all scheduled and timed out, so make sure you meet her before you eat or you won’t get to.

Unfortunately, our PhotoPass didn’t turn out that great. My hat cast an awful shadow over my eye.

photopass with cinderella at cinderella's royal table

You can always double check your photo in the app (they show up pretty quickly) and if it’s bad, try asking politely if you can retake it. We saw some guests do this. But, remember, they are on a schedule, so it might not always work out in your favor. Thankfully, we also took some on our phone that turned out better.

Cinderella does sign autographs and takes her time with each guest, especially little ones. Don’t be intimidated if the line looks long, it moves relatively fast.

While this is allows you to take a nice, professional photo at a character meal versus what you snap on your phone, remember — Cinderella will not come to your table and you must get in line to meet her before your meal.

Remember: photos are not included with your dining reservation, unless you have a PhotoPass entitlement (Memory Maker or Memory Maker One Day) or are a qualifying Annual Passholder with a PhotoPass download benefit. You can also buy photos individually.

Character Interaction

At Cinderella’s Royal Table, you get to say hello to not one, not two, not three, not four, but five Disney princesses. What’s more magical than that?

Here’s who you get to meet:

Ariel

ariel at cinderella's royal table

Aurora

aurora at cinderella's royal table

Jasmine

jasmine at cinderella's royal table

Snow White

snow white at cinderella's royal table

Our interactions with the princesses were all fantastic. They were friendly, lovely, and sign autographs. They made their way around to each table in a timely manner.

What we really appreciated were the princesses visited the tables in the order you were sat. It was so nice! At the end of our lunch, a Cast Member even came to check to make sure we met all of the princesses.

And, of course, don’t forget Cinderella, who we met during the separate character meet and greet that we mentioned above.

Cinderella’s Royal Table food and drinks

A 3-course, prix-fixe lunch and dinner is served at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

Here’s what was included with our August 12, 2023 lunch at Cinderella’s Royal Table(keep in mind that menus and prices change, so the following may not always be the same).

Appetizers of the Court (choose one)

You get to choose one appetizer. We chose:

  • Felicia: Castle Salad (Romaine, Brussels Sprouts, Goat Cheese, Spring Vegetables, and Green Goddess Dressing)
castle salad at cinderella's royal table

Just look how gorgeous this salad is! It was light, flavorful, and all-around fantastic. We definitely recommend this as an appetizer.

  • Allyson: Soup of the Day (Tomato Bisque; plant-based)
tomato bisque at cinderella's royal table

The soup of the day isn’t specified on the menu, so be sure to ask your server if they don’t tell you. This tomato bisque was absolutely outstanding, even on a day when it felt like over 100 degrees farenheit.

The other appetizer choices during our meal were:

  • Braised Beef: Carrot and Coriander Purée, Shallot Jam, and Horseradish Gremolada
  • Chilled Jumbo Shrimp: Avocado Mousse, Crispy Peppers, Corn Purée, and Micro Cilantro
cinderella's royal table menu

Entrées Royale (choose one)

For our entrées, we decided on the following:

  • Felicia: Slow-braised Chicken (Fettuccine Pasta, Pine Nut Pesto, and Edible Flowers)
slow braised chicken fettucini pasta at cinderella's royal table

While this wasn’t horrible, Felicia recognized that it was good for what it was. She’s not a big fan of a creamy sauce and would have preferred straight pesto.

  • Allyson: Parisian Gnocchi (Seasonal Vegetables, Celery Root Purée, and Vegetable Demi-glace; plant-based)
plant-based parisian gnocchi at cinderella's royal table

This was an absolutely delicious plant-based gnocchi dish. The veggies were beyond fresh and the demi-glace added a lovely flavor. If you’re not a soy sauce fan, you may want to steer clear of this one since the demi-glace definitely resembles it.

The other entrées on the menu were:

  • Spice-rubbed Pork Tenderloin: Curry Couscous, Rainbow Carrots, and Red Wine Jus
  • Grilled Tenderloin of Beef: Potato Pavé, Roasted Seasonal Vegetables, and House-made Steak Sauce
  • Sustainable Catch En Papillote: Marbled Potatoes, Chimichurri, and Seasonal Vegetables

Finales (choose one)

At the end of the meal, you can order one dessert. We chose:

  • Felicia: The Clock Strikes Twelve (Dark Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel and Crunchy Praline Center, served with Chocolate Sauce and Hazelnut Gelato)
clock strikes twelve dessert at cinderella's royal table

This dessert tastes as good as it looks. Isn’t it adorable? If you want a perfectly-themed Cinderella sweet treat, then this is the one to order. You won’t be disappointed, especially if you’re a chocolate fan.

  • Allyson: Jaq & Gus (Cheesecake with Seasonal Flavors and Garnishes)
jaq and gus cheesecake at cinderella's royal table

This cheesecake was so, so, so, so, so good! Let’s just say there wasn’t even a crumb left on the plate.

There is also a plant-based option:

  • Coffee Pot de Crème: Coffee-infused Coconut ‘Custard’, Passion Fruit Gelée, and Crumbled Chocolate-Espresso Beans

While we don’t have photos of the kids’ offerings, here’s what you can expect from the kids’ menu…

Kids’ Create-Your-Own Appetizers (choose one)

  • Sliced Apples
  • Bite-sized Cheddar Cheese and Grapes
  • Garden Salad with Fat-free Ranch Dressing

Kids’ Create-Your-Own Entrées (choose one)

  • Seared Fish of the Day: Served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice
  • Grilled Beef Tenderloin: Served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice
  • Chicken Nuggets: Served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice
  • Macaroni & Cheese: Served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice

Kids’ Create-Your-Own Selections (choose two)

  • Seasonal Vegetables
  • Rice Pilaf
  • Mashed Potatoes
  • Buttered Corn-on-the-Cob

Kids’ Create-Your-Own Desserts (choose one)

  • Build-Your-Own-Cupcake: Vanilla Cupcake with Cinderella’s Blue Icing and decorations to garnish your Royal Dessert
  • Yogurt Parfait
  • Seasonal Sorbet

Drinks

Here’s what you need to know about beverages served at Cinderella’s Royal Table…

cinderella's royal table cocktail and beer menu

Included

Water, soft drinks, juice, coffee, tea, and milk are all included with the cost of your meal.

Alcoholic beverages for an additional price

You can also order beer, cider, seltzer, wine, champagne, or cocktails.

cinderella's royal table wine and champagne menu
  • Felicia: Step Sisters Flight for $15.00

This flight consists of:

  • McBride Sisters Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough, New Zealand
  • McBride Sisters Chardonnay, Central Coast
  • McBride Sisters Sparkling Brut Rosé, Hawke’s Bay, New Zealand
step sister wine flight at cinderella's royal table
  • Allyson: Royal Sparkling Flight for $19

This flight consists of:

  • Paul Cheneau Lady of Spain Cava, Spain
  • Banfi Rosa Regale Sparkling Red, Piedmont
  • Enchantée Champagne Brut, Champagne
royal sparkling flight at cinderella's royal table

Both of these flights were very good. Plus, you get a lot for your money. If you’re a fan of white wine, rosé, champagne, then these are the flights to order at Cinderella’s Royal Table. They complemented our meals well.

Important: If you or someone in your party has dietary restrictions, many Disney World restaurants have accommodations and they also sometimes list the allergy-friendly items on the menu (online and in the My Disney Experience app). If you have questions, be sure to chat with a Cast Member and they’ll be able to assist you.

Our most recent review of Cinderella’s Royal Table

This particular dining experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table impressed us greatly. We did not anticipate to love it as much as we did, especially because it costs a good amount.

But, we walked away raving about our lunch and overall experience. That’s how much we enjoyed ourselves. We expect dinner to be just as good. (I had breakfast here in January 2023 when Cinderella’s Royal Table was still modified and you could only meet Cinderella. I didn’t walk away loving it, but I would like to try it again based on this lunch.)

Being able to dine inside the castle is peak Disney magic. The views are also great, if you get the right seat. We were lucky enough to sit by the window, which overlooked a small portion of Fantasyland.

window view from cinderella's royal table

Now, keep in mind that this is a tighter dining room. We were very close to other tables and had to shift a few times to allow our server to pass food and drinks to other guests. It can also become a bit loud. But, overall, this didn’t impact our lunch negatively.

It also helped that service was impeccable. Our server did not disappoint. He was attentive, informative, quick, and absolutely wonderful.

cinderella's royal table dining room

Between meeting four Disney princesses and indulging in one of the best character meals we’ve had on property (talk about spot-on presentation), why wouldn’t we give Cinderella’s Royal Table a good review?

Better yet, the meal ends with you being able to take home an adorable souvenir: a magic wand or a sword!

magic wand souvenir at cinderella's royal table
sword souvenir at cinderella's royal table

We also want to note that at the beginning of the meal, you receive a “wishing star.” Typically, there’s supposed to be a moment when all of the diners make a wish. We stuck around for a little bit to see, but it didn’t happen for us.

wishing star at cinderella's royal table

Even though we didn’t get to put our “wishing star” to good use, we still had the best time at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

Is Cinderella’s Royal Table worth it?

We truly believe Cinderella’s Royal Table is worth it, especially when you compare it to Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.

If you want to dine inside a castle, Cinderella’s Royal Table is the way to go.

Let’s compare pricing…

Akershus pricing

  • Breakfast: $53 per adult (ages 10 and up), plus tax and gratuity; $34 per child (ages 3 to 9), plus tax and gratuity
  • Lunch and dinner: $63 per adult (ages 10 and up), plus tax and gratuity; $41 per child (ages 3 to 9), plus tax and gratuity

Cinderella’s Royal Table pricing (you must prepay when booking)…

  • Breakfast: $65 per adult (ages 10 and up), plus tax and gratuity; $39 per child (ages 3 to 9), plus tax and gratuity
  • Lunch and dinner: $79 per adult (ages 10 and up), plus tax and gratuity; $47 per child (ages 3 to 9), plus tax and gratuity

Cinderella’s Royal Table and Akershus are the two main Disney princess character meals at Disney World.

While Akershus is a bit cheaper in price, Cinderella’s Royal Table isn’t that much more in cost when you really break down the experiences and what you’re hoping to get out of princess character dining.

Akershus

If you don’t care about definitely meeting Cinderella, eating inside her castle, or being able to choose your own entree, then you might just want to try Akershus for the reduced cost. You get a “unique” meal at the Norway-inspired character dining experience and can still meet five Disney princesses for a smaller fee.

But, if you want to have a cooler atmosphere and to have more of a say in what you’re eating, Cinderella’s Royal Table is probably the way to go. Plus, we had a much better time at Cinderella’s Royal Table than we did Akershus.

Of course, you also have to factor in what you’re willing to pay. Really, you’re still spending a good chunk of money on both princess meals. The additional amount you’d fork over at Cinderella’s Royal Table is worth it.

If you’re wondering how these compare to Be Our Guest, there isn’t a comparison. Don’t let anyone tell you different. You don’t get to meet princesses and the food isn’t great. You really only get to walk away saying you waved to The Beast and saw inside his castle. Pay the additional $12 per adult and $10 per child to eat inside Cinderella Castle, meet a handful of princesses, and enjoy a delicious lunch or dinner.

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Have you ever had lunch or dinner at Cinderella’s Royal Table? Let us hear your thoughts in the comments.

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Allyson Koerner