Cinderella's Royal Table

This past weekend my family, friends and I were lunching at a rather exclusive spot. Three months ago, I proceeded laboriously through an automated phone system for this table. I had a very finicky diner to impress. When I finally had the confirmation, I sighed in relief. (Actually I jumped and screamed as if I’d won the lottery). I had scored a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table for my daughter’s fifth birthday.

Cinderella’s Royal Table is located inside the castle at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Anyone with daughters could tell you it’s like getting in at French Laundry or Rao’s; it’s the hottest table in the Kingdom. The Disney princesses are present for breakfast and lunch, making it insanely popular. Mobs of young girls decked out in princess gear swarm the restaurant. My daughter, Bella, chooses a powder blue Cinderella gown and crystal tiara for the occasion. Her BFF dons an aqua Arielle number.

Upon arrival, we’re escorted inside where Cinderella herself is waiting for us with a photographer. A photo package is included with the meal ($30 - $49/person). Post-paparazzi, we climb a winding, red-carpeted stairwell that leads into the dining room. It’s a large, circular room with gothic arches and tall windows with stained glass mosaics; very dramatic in a Disney kind of way.

After being seated, we’re presented with plates of antipasti. The bruschetta, roasted red peppers and salami are a welcome sight to fast-fading parents. A little wine would make us even happier, but the waiter informs, “Sorry m’lady, but there’s no alcohol in this kingdom.” While the adults graze, the princesses make their rounds. Kids squeal in delight as their autograph books are signed. “Mommy! It’s SNOW WHITE!”

Next is the main course. The pork tenderloin with couscous and Cabernet sauce was good. The pork was tender and the sauce’s sweetness contrasted the garlicky meat. There’s seared salmon with rice, Asian vegetables and garlic-ginger sauce. The salmon was crisp-skinned and flaky, perfectly fine. There’s also a savory meat-pie with a puff-pastry crust that seems right at home given the setting. For kids it’s standard fare: hot dogs and macaroni.

Dessert options include sorbet with fresh berries and a tasty pistachio rice pudding. We opted to pre-order a birthday cake ($21), which was ceremoniously presented to a beaming birthday girl.

Service was accommodating but rushed, like any Disney restaurant. The food, while satisfying, was nothing fantastic. But if you book Cinderella’s Royal Table for the cuisine, you’ve missed the point. You go for the look of wonderment in your child’s eyes and to see them brimming with laughter. You go to feel like a kid again yourself. That’s what makes it a meal worth remembering, long after you’ve forgotten the food.