Timon & Rafiki only appear on Monday & Friday nights, which are seafood nights. On other nights, I believe the characters are Pluto & Goofy (of course, characters are subject to change).
I can't speak for the BBQ (as I only go on Monday/Friday nights), but I have found the buffet to be equal to (or better) than other WDW character buffets. The Caesar salad is excellent and they have very unique & tasty desserts. Usually, there aren't many people here & you can see the characters multiple times during your visit.