Hi Amanda,
Welcome to planDisney, I am so happy to hear you are planning your first visit to Walt Disney World Resort! Character dining is a must do for my family, we make sure to plan for at least one Character Dining per visit, it is so much fun.
No matter which experience you choose, you will have a great time at either
Chef Mickey's or
Hollywood & Vine. Both locations feature classic characters and a delicious variety of food that will suit even the pickiest of eaters. Personally, the nostalgic feeling of Chef Mickey's makes that dining location a family favourite for us, but we love Hollywood & Vine as well.
When choosing between the two, I would recommend looking at where you will be during your Walt Disney World Resort vacation, to help make your decision. We tend to plan our dining around what Theme Park we will be visiting as well as ease of Transportation to and from the dining location. If you are planning a day in Disney's Hollywood Studios and would like to take a break from the Theme Park without having to leave, Hollywood & Vine may be the better choice. On the other hand, if you would like to get away from the Theme Park, and visit Disney's Contemporary Resort, Chef Mickey's may be the winner. Even though it is relatively close to Magic Kingdom Park, travel time may be a factor when deciding on which dining location you choose. As another positive, you will be able to take a ride on the Monorail from Magic Kingdom Park to Disney's Contemporary Resort, which is always a fun way to travel. We tend to visit Chef Mickey's for an early breakfast so we still have plenty of time in Magic Kingdom Park, or visit on a day we aren't planning on visiting a Theme Park. For Hollywood & Vine, we like to visit for dinner, as a fun way to end our day at Disney's Hollywood Studios.
When choosing between the two dining locations, you may also want to consider which character experience your kids may prefer. While it may not matter to some, my daughter loves the outfits that the characters wear at Hollywood & Vine. They dress seasonally, and their spring outfits are adorable. On the other hand the characters at Chef Mickey's are ready to help in the kitchen with their best chef's attire.
Regardless of which option you choose, you will have a fantastic time, Amanda. I would recommend making
Advanced Dining Reservations prior to your visit, up to 60 days in advance. Both of these dining locations are extremely popular and reservations tend to fill up quickly.
I hope your kids have a magical first visit to Walt Disney World Resort, Amanda. Please let us know if you have any other questions, we are always happy to help.
~Stephanie