Cinderella’s Royal Table

Now, I have a confession to make, guys. Despite seeing Cinderella’s castle almost every day for 6 months, I haven’t actually dined there! I know, it’s criminal! To make up for it, I brought in an expert- Kayla, a server at Cinderella’s Royal Table- to tell us all about it.

Kayla has worked at Walt Disney World since August of 2014. She started with the company as part of the Disney College Program, working in a quick-service food and beverage location at Wilderness Lodge. From there, she went on to serve drinks, shrink heads, and chant to the tiki gods at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto for most of her Disney career. Additionally, she spent some of her days trading artifacts at Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar before ending her adventures at the most exclusive gathering of royals. Her duty is now to serve lords, ladies, and their princesses-in-waiting at Cinderella’s Royal Table. 

What’s it like working in the most magical part of the Magic Kingdom?  Each day that I step into the castle, is a magical day indeed. You can’t be in a bad mood when you’re in such an exquisite atmosphere. As someone that typically works later in the day, I get the pleasure of not only being surrounded by princesses and a wonderful set of co-workers but I also get to see the nightly fireworks show from a unique perspective behind the stained-glass windows.   

How is it different to the other locations you’ve worked at within Walt Disney World? The main difference that comes to mind is the level of service and type of theming. While I strive to give each and every guest an exceptional experience, expectations vary greatly depending on the location. That is to say, at Cinderella’s Royal Table, for dinner each lord and lady receives a 3-course meal and is referred to with such titles. The atmosphere is one of grandeur and elegance. In contrast, at Trader Sam’s, the main focus is cocktails and developing a sense of o’hana, or family. One shouldn’t be surprised to find themselves being rained on or joked with. Both locations are one-of-a-kind. 

How would you describe the food at Cinderella’s Royal Table? With a sizable variety of dishes and no wish left ungranted, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Each dish is designed to offer a well-balanced and filling experience. French inspirations shine through on most of the plates with items such as sauce bordelaise and haricot verts. 

What’s your favourite dish? The seared sea scallops, hands down. They’re accompanied by a parmesan mousse that I wouldn’t mind having on the side of each and every meal if possible. The seasonal peanut butter cake is also a favorite of mine as it’s served with a banana sorbet that I can’t get enough of. 

Do you prefer the breakfast or lunch/dinner menu? This is a tricky question. I would like to say “brunch” (which is not an offering) and mix elements from both the breakfast and lunch menus. I’ll take the scallops to start, shrimp and gouda cheese grits for my main course, and then sorbet to follow. Please and thank you!

Who is your favourite princess who visits? These questions are brutal now! How does one choose? I very much enjoy seeing all of the princesses and hearing the tales of what they’ve been doing since I last saw them. If I absolutely have to pick one, I will say that Jasmine always seems to brighten my days just a little extra. 

Favourite magic moment at the castle? There’s a special event called “The Wishing Ceremony”. Each royal family receives wishing stars as they are seated at their grand tables and later on, we give them an opportunity to make a wish from within the castle. I don’t want to give away the best part but know that the ceremony is very magical indeed. 

Any tips for those visiting Cinderella’s Royal Table for the first time? Enjoy yourself! Remember to embrace the magic. Maybe check out the wine list because a glass in the castle just seems to be extra special. 

If you could have a dinner party with any 3 Disney characters, who would you pick/why?  I would like to choose all 15 of the original puppies from 101 Dalmatians but that seems like cheating… Instead, I will pick (and please note that this decision was very difficult): Genie, Mushu, and Philoctetes. I feel as though this trio would deliver a very entertaining and memorable dining experience. After all, isn’t that how the best dinners should be?