Breakfast at Ariel's or Storyteller's?

[Dory'sMom]

Hi. This is my first post. We're going to DL April 7-12-- me, DH and dd (2) and dd (1). On the Wed I've booked DH on the segway tour. I thought maybe the girls and I would go for another character breakfast while he's there. (We're also booked in the Plaza the day before.) I'm wondering should I take the girls to Ariel's or Storytellers by myself. It would be about 8am I would think. Storytellers would be good since we're staying at the Grand Californian and I wouldn't have to travel far.
Ariel's also sounds interesting since I could be in the park early. We'll be doing DCA that day. My question with that is-- when I looked at the menus listed on allears it showed that you get a set menu at Ariels. Not a buffet. How does that work with 2 kids under 3 since I don't pay for them to eat? Do they eat my food? Would there be enough for me and 2 little kids to eat? Or would I be better going to Storyteller's buffet where they can eat all they want for free?

 

[BillyFan]

I love Storyteller's, but if your girls are at all into princesses, I'd go with Ariel's. It's a great way to see the ladies without huge lines.
And I don't have any real experience with the food situation you're asking about, but I'd be willing to bet that they would give you plenty of food for all three of you.

 

[ballarinamom]

The girls are only free at a place with buffet.
At Ariel's, they would have to eat off of you plate.
Storytellers has a buffet and they can eat from that if you purchase it. But if you order from the menu, they must eat off of your plate. You can order toast or other sides a la carte but it can get expensive.
I would think your girl's would like the princesses more than the characters at Storytellers. Ariel's does give a 10% AAA discount if you have that. Have a great trip!

 

[ballarinamom]

OOPS! I forgot-
with two and you being by yourself, Storytellers may be easier for you as you are staying at the hotel. It depends on how "easy" your kids are. I know some can be handfuls while others are easy.

 

[ptlycloudy]

Buffets can be tricky with 2 small ones in tow trying to navigate and carry a plate etc. My dd's loved Ariel's . Nothing topped the princesses! I don't believe they ate much. I would just order a small side of something they like to go with my meal like pancakes etc. I also liked the fact that after that we didn't have to stand in line for all of the princesses since we had seen most of them at Ariel's.

 

[DangerMouse]

You can order off the menu at Storyteller's. It is by far my favorite character meal. The food is exceptional and the atmosphere relaxing.

I would call Disney Dining and make sure they are offering Ariel's breakfast as early as you are wanting. I know that they have recently pushed back their opening time. When we were there in Feb. the first seating was at 9:40 am. Of course, it will be earlier in August, but I'm not exactly sure how much earlier.

Also the food selection at Ariel's is more limited for little ones. Have you looked at the breakfast menu? Even if they are eating off your plate, the food is not as child friendly, IMO.

 

[pixiewings71]

Ariel's will bring you a platter with eggs, bacon, sausage, potatoes and a seperate 3 tiered plate with fruits, cheese, spreads and muffins and bagels. They let you chose your drink. With 2 dd's I would go to Ariel's. I don't think you can do it as early as 8 though, call Disney Dining and see what they can offer you, you might get lucky.

 

[Dory'sMom]

Thanks everyone. I think I'll go with Ariel's. My 2 year old is more of a tomboy (why oh why can't there be a Cars breakfast??) but she's starting to show interest in the princesses too. I'll have to call and see how early I can get in there.