Hi Todd,
My boys' favorite is
Chef Mickey's at the Contemporary Resort. Not only do you get to meet Mickey but you can usually find Minnie, Donald, Goody & Pluto as well. The buffet is awesome & you can always find plenty of great food for everyone. The atmosphere is very festive & my boys love that they can see the monorails come through during our meals. This is also a very convenient location to start your day with breakfast before heading to the Magic Kingdom or taking a break & popping over for dinner. Lunch is not currently served.
Mickey's Backyard BBQ at the Fort Wilderness Resort is also another fun way to interact with Mickey. Most character dining locations involved characters coming around to tables during your meal. They sign autographs, pose for pictures & interact with Guests for a few minutes. Mickey's Backyard BBQ goes beyond that by offering a meal with a night of interactive entertainment.
There is one main dance floor & two smaller ones where characters dance with Guests. Characters are always subject to change but the last 2 times I was there Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Chip & Dale appeared all in their western & BBQ attire.
A live band provides the music for the evening by performing popular country tunes. There is also a trick roping demonstration - pretty impressive - & they bring up a couple of kids from the audience to assist. At the end of the evening, all of the performers & characters gather for the grand finale. My boys love this experience & I've always enjoyed it too.
Dining reservations can be made beginning 180 days prior to your trip by calling 407-WDW-DINE or online by clicking on the links above.
Wishing you many magical memories :-) Allison