Looking for a unique Disney dining experience that blends delicious food with fairytale flair? Let me introduce you to the Royal Banquet at Disneyland Paris—a magical meal that truly feels like you’re dining in a storybook.
As a travel photographer and lifelong Disney fan, I’ve enjoyed character dining across the globe—from Cinderella’s Royal Table in Florida to Mickey’s Tokyo Breakfast—but the Royal Banquet at Disneyland Paris stands out for its regal setting, rare characters, and unforgettable photo ops. Whether you’re traveling with kids, going on a romantic getaway, or just want to eat like a prince or princess, this guide is your key to the full Royal Banquet experience in 2025.
What Is the Royal Banquet at Disneyland Paris?
The Royal Banquet is a character dining experience located inside the newly reimagined Royal Castle area, part of the Disneyland Hotel at the entrance of Disneyland Park.
It combines gourmet buffet dining with exclusive Disney royalty meet-and-greets. You’ll dine surrounded by palace-worthy decor while characters like Mickey, Minnie, and Disney Princesses visit your table in regal attire.
Perfect for:
- Families with kids who adore princesses
- Couples celebrating a Disney honeymoon or anniversary
- Disneybounders and photographers looking for magical content
Why It’s Worth Booking in 2025
The Royal Banquet has undergone exciting upgrades for the 2025 season:
- New character costumes: Exclusive royal-themed outfits you won’t see elsewhere in the parks
- Upgraded menu: More seasonal French specialties and vegan/vegetarian options
- Professional lighting enhancements: Ideal for character photos
- Reservations open earlier than ever: Demand is high, so book well in advance
If you’re planning a trip to Disneyland Paris in 2025, this is one reservation you shouldn’t miss.
What Characters Appear at the Royal Banquet?
The character line-up may vary, but typically includes:
- Mickey and Minnie Mouse in royal court attire
- Disney Princesses such as Belle, Aurora, Cinderella, and Tiana
- Surprise appearances from characters like Prince Charming, the Fairy Godmother, or even Beast
Unlike park meet-and-greets, these characters come to your table, offering plenty of time for conversation and photos.
Photographer tip: Characters usually enter in waves. Keep your camera ready and set to burst mode for natural reactions.
Royal Banquet Menu Highlights
The Royal Banquet is a gourmet buffet featuring:
- Starters: Lobster bisque, French onion soup, seasonal salads
- Main dishes: Roast lamb, pan-seared salmon, ratatouille, truffle risotto
- Kids’ station: Chicken nuggets, mac & cheese, mini burgers
- Desserts: Chocolate mousse crowns, raspberry tarts, custom cupcakes
- Beverages: Included soft drinks and juices; optional wine or champagne
Vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options are clearly labeled.
Pro tip: Save room for dessert—the themed sweets are not only tasty but highly Instagrammable.
Cost and How to Book
Pricing for 2025 varies depending on time of year:
- Adults: €90–€120
- Children (3–11): €50–€70
- Under 3: Free
Reservations can be made:
- Via the Disneyland Paris mobile app
- On the official Disneyland Paris website
- By calling +33 1 60 30 60 53 (English available)
Book 60+ days in advance, especially if you’re visiting during school holidays or major events like Halloween or Christmas.
Best Times to Dine for a Magical Experience
To maximize your experience:
- Late lunch (1:30–2:30 PM) offers softer natural lighting for photos
- Early dinner (6:00 PM) feels more intimate and less rushed
- Avoid peak midday slots unless you’re used to the energy and volume
Request a window table when you check in—you’ll get gorgeous ambient light and a quieter spot.
What to Wear: Embrace the Theme!
There’s no dress code, but many guests dress for the royal occasion:
- Kids often wear princess or prince costumes (highly encouraged!)
- Adults may Disneybound or wear elegant park attire
- Photographers: Light-colored clothing works beautifully with the warm gold interiors
Bonus: Disney PhotoPass photographers may be available during peak seasons to capture your royal portraits.
Photography Tips Inside the Royal Banquet
This location is stunning for character and family portraits. Use these tips:
- Lens: Use a 35mm or 50mm prime lens for dreamy background blur
- Settings: ISO 800–1600, f/2.2–f/4, shutter 1/200+
- White balance: Set to warm/indoor or custom adjust for soft gold tones
- Lighting: Natural light from the windows + chandeliers = magical glow
Don’t forget to shoot wide shots of the decor between courses—it’s like dining inside a Disney film.
Is the Royal Banquet Worth It?
In a word: absolutely.
You’re not just paying for food—you’re getting:
- High-quality dining with French flair
- Intimate time with beloved characters
- A royal setting for memorable photos
- A slow-paced, relaxing escape from the park crowds
For many guests, it becomes the highlight of their Disneyland Paris trip.
Royal Banquet vs. Other Disneyland Paris Dining
Here’s how it compares to other popular experiences:
| Dining Location | Character Dining | Buffet | Unique Decor | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Royal Banquet | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | 👑 Regal Castle | Families, photographers |
| Auberge de Cendrillon | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | 🎠 Fairytale Courtyard | Princess lovers |
| Plaza Gardens | ✅ Yes (classic) | ✅ Yes | 🍽️ Victorian | General character dining |
| Captain Jack’s | ❌ No | ❌ No | 🏴 Pirate Cove | Themed dining experience |
Final Thoughts: Make Your Disneyland Paris Trip Unforgettable
The Royal Banquet at Disneyland Paris is more than a meal—it’s a fully immersive, photo-worthy Disney moment. If you’re planning your 2025 trip and want to do something extra special, this is the reservation to splurge on.
Between the regal setting, exclusive character moments, and gourmet buffet, it delivers on every level. And from a photographer’s perspective, it’s an absolute dream.