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There are few things that get me out of bed before 5 a.m., but exploring Disney World’s Be Our Guest restaurant—when no one else is around—is one of them. The Beauty and the Beast-themed eatery has been so popular that scoring a reservation is no easy feat, but about four years ago, I got the place to myself as part of a video shoot. And wow. I can see why families shell out $62 a person for the three-course prix fixe menu. (It’s $37 for kids. A $37 kid’s meal. Let that sink in.)
It truly looks like the movie has come to life.
The restaurant is split into three rooms, each a practically perfect recreation of the Grand Ballroom, West Wing and Castle Gallery shown in the 1991 film (albeit with far more tables and chairs). We’re talking the cherubic painted ceiling, grand arched windows, even the Enchanted Rose and shredded portrait of the Beast as a prince.
It’s more than a meal—it’s an experience.
The Beast wanders the castle throughout your meal, and as petals gradually fall from the Enchanted Rose, claw marks appear on the Beast’s portrait as he slowly transforms. There’s a ton to take in all around you, and thankfully, you’re allowed to wander and explore after your meal (and at $62 per person, plus park admission, you should be able to).
The menu *is* castle-worthy.
The French-inspired fare is served with serious flair. Adults can choose an appetizer ranging from a charcuterie board to octopus salad to lobster bisque, whereas kids’ options are a bit more basic (and frankly, a little disappointing): an iceberg wedge salad, a fruit and cheese plate, or peach applesauce.
There’s a vegetarian option for kids and adults (mac and cheese and Vadouvan-spiced vegetables with crispy corn cakes, respectively), though the standout adult entrees tend to be the pan-seared scallops over risotto and filet mignon with Yukon potatoes and seasonal vegetables.
But really, we’re all just here for the Grey Stuff.
The meal is finished with a dessert trio, including treats like lemon jam macarons and dark chocolate truffles. But truly, the showstopper is the Grey Stuff. I mean, Lumiere told us it was a must-try, right? So 30 years later, you need to try it. The Grey Stuff is essentially a cookies and creme mousse—light, fluffy and gray-toned from the chocolate cookie dust that’s whipped into it. How it’s served (and what it’s served upon) changes over time, be it within a white chocolate cup that looks like Chip, atop a chocolate cupcake (as I experienced it) or dolloped onto a tart.
Is it worth $62 a person though?
If you’re celebrating a major milestone and are a Beauty and the Beast stan, sure. It’s the kind of capital-E Event that can cap off an iconic day at the park. But if your goal is to ride as many rides as possible during your day at Magic Kingdom, skip the multi-course meal, nosh on a Sweet & Spicy Chicken and Waffle, and whip up your own Grey Stuff at home.
