Chef Mickey's for 2 adults, better "character experience" with early ADR or late?

[DisneySherpa]

Im looking for some insight for celebrating DBF's Birthday at Chef Mickey's... I have a whole day of surprises planned... and a dinner with goofy (his personal fav) to help top off the evening.

As an adult, I've been to several character meals... some with great interactions... some without... and well... lets just say breakfast at chef mickeys was not one of our better character meals.

Im determined to give this another shot... but am curious as to if an early or later ADR would be better in terms of crowds/character interaction.

Any insight/experience would be great...

 

[disneyfav4ever]

Me and my mom had an ADR at opening once for dinner, and the character interaction was great then.

 

[disneyfav4ever]

And dinner is better then breakfast at Chef Mickey's IMO if that is at all reassuring.

 

[goofygal531]

I've found that all character meals tend to limit adult character interaction. For some reason, they think the adults don't want to really be bothered more than a photo. In this case, I'd let the waitstaff know that it's your DFF's bday and that you want the characters to really participate and goof around. I think if they know you want the interaction, you'll get it.

Dinner at 5pm when they open is a little less hectic, I think it can get crazy later on in the evening.

 

[disneymayz]

5pm Dinner!!! It is not really crowded and the characters interacted alot. Def. tell them it is bday they will give a special placemat. My DD still uses her and DW will be getting 1 this June.

 

[trappednabox]

The last time we went we had a late ADR for CM's 9pm (I think) and we had the best time! I was worried b/c it was so late that the food would be of a poorer quality, and that the characters would be tired and not as much fun, but we had the BEST time!

the food was fresh and great, everything was there, not just what was left over, and the characters were crazy fun. Most of them even did the robot with my sister we will never forget that trip