Hi Jillian,
Welcome back to the Disney Parks Moms Panel! Thank you for bringing another great question to us! How exciting to be planning your first trip to the Walt Disney World Resort.
Yes,
Chef Mickey's is a must-do. I suggest that you make the 8:50 p.m. reservation and then keep checking. I have often been able to modify our reservation times as we get closer to our trip. Keep trying up through the week before your trip. People often make last minute changes. Although the food and character experience will still be great at 8:50 p.m., your family might be exhausted!
I also like to let people know that there is an official
Disney Photopass photographer in the waiting area at Chef Mickey's. Your family can take a great photo just before your meal.
Remember to take your autograph book with a larger pen (these are easier for some characters to grip).
If you are not staying at Disney's Contemporary Resort, be sure to use the
My Disney Experience Mobile App to verify how you can get to Chef Mickey's. From Magic Kingdom, I suggest that you walk, take the
Resort Monorail or take a
Water Taxi.
Our girls are 10-years old and we still go to Chef Mickey's. We always have a blast. If you cannot change the reservation time, I suggest that you arrive a little early. They may be able to seat you early.
I do hope you have a magical first visit!
Happy Planning!
-Donyell