Hollywood & Vine Disney Play ‘n Dine Review: Characters, Comfort Food & Mickey Waffles for Days

A Disney Debrief from Travel n Taste Journal

Our breakfast at Hollywood & Vine Disney Play ‘n Dine was the perfect way to kick off our Hollywood Studios day. Between beloved Disney Junior characters and a surprisingly delicious buffet, this experience served up magic, movement, and Mickey waffles—before we even hit our first ride.

Characters That Truly Interact

This breakfast wasn’t just a quick wave from a costumed character across the room. At Hollywood & Vine, the characters really make the rounds—and they do it twice! We met Doc McStuffins, Fancy Nancy, Vampirina, and Goofy, and they each spent time dancing, playing, and personally connecting with the kids.

Our daughter had a moment with Goofy that completely brought her out of her shell—dancing together and giggling nonstop. Those kinds of unscripted interactions are what Disney memories are made of.

The Vibe: Nostalgic and Cheerful

Hollywood & Vine is styled like a retro diner, with a bright and cheerful atmosphere. It’s comfortable, inviting, and full of cast members who truly go out of their way to make you feel welcome. It was a nice contrast to the sometimes-rushed feeling of other character breakfasts.

The Food: Best Buffet of the Trip?

This was easily our favorite breakfast buffet at Disney. The spread was massive, fresh, and surprisingly flavorful. Some highlights included:

• Corned beef fried rice – savory, unique, and delicious
• Fresh omelet station – always a hit with grownups
• Mickey waffles, fresh fruit, and yes—ice cream for breakfast – Disney logic at its best

Other options included biscuits and gravy, cheesy hash brown casserole, bacon, sausage, egg benedict, spicy chicken and doughnuts, bananas foster French toast, plant-based frittata with tomato jam, salmon and bagel casserole, assorted pastries, and more. We didn’t have a single bite we regretted.

What You Need to Know

• Character Dining is Breakfast-Only: Play ‘n Dine characters only appear during breakfast (8:30 AM–10:30 AM).
• Bring an Autograph Book: Each character visits your table, so be ready with books and markers!
• Paying with MagicBand+ is a breeze: Just tap and go—super convenient with kids in tow.
• Missed a Character? Let a cast member (in light blue) know. They’ll make sure you get your full lineup.
• Location Can Be Tricky: Hollywood & Vine is near the front of the park. If you reach the Frozen theater, you’ve gone too far.
• Don’t Confuse It: Disney Junior Play Theater is a separate experience entirely.

Final Thoughts

We’d absolutely book Hollywood & Vine Disney Play ‘n Dine again. The food was a win, the character time was generous, and the overall energy was fun and relaxed. It was the perfect start to a day full of Star Wars, Slinky Dog, and skyliner sunsets.

Looking for more character meal reviews? Explore our full Disney Debrief series here.