Disney Aulani Makahiki Breakfast Character Dining Review and Tips (2024)
Every time we visit a Disney property we always try to experience one new thing that we’ve never done before. During a recent trip to Disney Aulani, we reserved space for a character buffet breakfast at Makahiki. I have to admit, I’m not a huge fan of buffets. In my experience the food is always cold, people touch items they don’t take, and the food displays are always messy and half-empty. I didn’t know what to expect when we visited this specific character breakfast but here is my Disney Aulani Makahiki review and tips for your trip!
Disney Aulani’s Makahiki Review and Tips
Makahiki- The Bounty of the Islands is located on the lower level of the Disney Aulani resort, adjacent to the pool area. When we checked in, we were directed outside to take pictures with Mickey. They have a professional photographer and a person who offers to take pictures for you with your own camera/phone. There were only a few people in line so my kids got to interact a bit with Mickey. We then went back to the hostess stand and waited to be seated.
From our reservation time, it took about 10 minutes to be seated.
What About The Food?
We were pleasantly surprised at the diversity of the food options Disney Aulani Makahiki character dining offered. They had typical American waffles, omelets, and pancakes. But they also had fried rice, ham, Mickey, and Ironman-shaped waffles. In addition, they had nishimi, miso soup, li hing pineapple, and mini Loco Moco. We found everything to be warm and very fresh.
Cast members were constantly putting out fresh fruit and wiping up counters! For the number of people that were grabbing food, you would think the place would be a mess, but the staff was on top of keeping things tidy.
What Characters Will You See?
Mickey and Minnie are always at the character breakfast. You will also see Aunty, Goofy, Chip and Dale. Occasionally, Stitch makes an appearance. During the character breakfast, Aunty will lead a congo line around the tables, she will also interact with the kids and do a quick hula lesson.
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I must say, the Disney Aulani Makahiki character breakfast staff is super friendly and our waitress was awesome in suggesting drinks and when the characters would stop by. The people who worked there seemed genuinely happy and nice, the person working the omelet station cracked jokes and everyone was happy and eager to assist.
Makahiki Tips on Seating
So here’s where I was less than pleased with the Makahiki character breakfast buffet. We sat outside on the patio, but the tables and chairs were jammed together. It felt like we were on top of a larger party that was seated next to us. I mentioned this to the hostess who said she could try to re-seat us but looking around, it was clear that it was a busy time and we’d have to wait.
I’d recommend doing the buffet as early as possible when there aren’t as many people in the restaurant.
Disney Aulani Makahiki Tips
* Plan ahead and make a reservation online or by calling. Times fill up fast!
* Makahiki is free for kids under 3.
* Parking is free with validation for up to 4 hours. Take advantage and explore the resort if you aren’t staying on the property.
* If you have allergies or specific food requirements, Aulani encourages you to note this when your reservation is made.
Makahiki FAQ’s
You will want to make reservations for the character breakfast.
Coffee and juice are included- not alcoholic beverages.
Moana is not at the character breakfast but does have meet-and-greet times throughout the day at the resort.
Other Disney Aulani reads:
Best Instagrammable Spots At Aulani
Characters to See at Disney’s Aulani!
