I am in a definite minority here, but I don't go to Chef Mickey's for the food. My wife disagrees with me, but for a Disney buffet, I feel what they offer is mediocre at best.
Having said that, there is NO OTHER CHARACTER BREAKFAST that comes close to the atmosphere, fun and energy of Chef Mickeys. From the minute you enter the restaurant area, you are almost engulfed with Disney magic and energy. It's loud, it's fast-paced, it's happy, it's fun ... it embodies everything that is Disney!
If you have children, I believe it is a must-do meal. Sure you can meet these characters in the parks, but you won't see characters "sliding into home plate" or dancing with people or making children squeal with delight at their hilarious antics. There is singing, there is laughter, there are pictures being taken all over the place.
I would give the food a C+.
I would give the atmosphere, fun and antics an A+++.
Even the servers get into the fun sometimes.
Yes, it can be crowded, so I recommend booking either an early PS or a late one.
It is at the Contemporary Resort, so you can take a Disney bus to the TTC and hop the monorail or if you have a car, you can drive over there.
Texan: your DS14 will probably roll his eyes at first, but I suspect after a little while he will get sucked into the fun. Your DS9 will probably love it.