How to opt out of the antics?

[LavaMama]

We have always wanted to go to Topolino's Terrace for breakfast, 50s Prime Time Cafe and Whispering Canyon but we haven't because a family member gets very anxious at the thought of having to interact with characters or cast at dinner shows. Is it possible to opt out of participating and if so, how?

 

[Pyxie]

I'm sure you could mention something to your server when they come by.

As far as character meals, you can simply wave or smile at them and let them move on. You don't *have* to interact.

50s Prime Time and Whispering Canyon are trickier. Definitely don't have that person ask for ketchup at Whispering Canyon..

 

[Woodview]

Have one of your party " Wave them on " or " say sorry not interested "

Or say " not now " move along

Remember "You might never see them again " over your vacation time

Go and Enjoy your meals

 

[TinkAgainU]

I did not find Whispering Canyon worth eating at unless you wanted to enjoy the minor-show-antics. For a great breakfast, I'd rather hit up Ale & Compass at Beach Club

 

[Skippyboo]

Does other people in your group want to interact with the characters at Topolino’s? If not, you are paying a premium price for just 1 entree and some pastries. Dinner is non character. Trattoria al Forno on the boardwalk has similar items without the characters.

 

[A Tall Soy Latte]

I've eaten at all three and have opted out of the interactions/shenanigans if I'm with my parents due to language barriers! Essentially, I had to let multiple cast members know. Once during check-in and the next when the waiter/waitress first comes to the table. Just kindly explain that your party would like to opt out of the special interactions. Everybody we talked to were very accommodating!

Do note that even though your table won't get the interactions, the other nearby tables will still get them; just a heads up in case this may cause anxiety to your family member. Some of the tables at 50s Prime Time and Whispering Canyon are quite close to one another. Here were my experiences with each of your mentioned restaurant’s :

• At Topolino's, the characters waved to our table if we made eye contact with them and just continued walking without stopping by.
• At 50s Prime Time, our server just treated us like any other guest with no antics. We did see a nearby table's dad get a talking to for not finishing his veggies haha!
• At Whispering Canyon, our server was still in character, but treated us like normal guests. The table next to us got straws and napkins thrown at them, later put in jail, and had the ketchup bottle punishment. It was hilarious and my parents couldn't stop laughing!

 

[nursejackie]

We opted out at Whispering Canyon. Just tell them when you arrive, it wasn't a problem. Food isn't worth returning, for us anyway.

 

[Brian Noble]

Whispering Canyon used to have two-sided coasters. One side was basically "I'm game for whatever" the other was "please tone it down." Did they get rid of those?

https://eatingwdw.wordpress.com/2015/05/20/breakfast-at-whispering-canyon-cafe-2/

 

[Anthony1971]

Whispering Canyon and 50's is based on the wait staff-the person who takes care of your table only. I would speak with the server directly. With whispering you may still get napkins thrown on your table as this one of the things SOME do not all when the server comes to your table before speaking.

 

[CaroM8]

For any character meals - you don't have to get up and "chit chat" with them or hug them. Just wave at them when they come by and they are usually pretty good at picking up cues. My daughter is a little shy when put on the spot so she would usually just want a quick hug, picture then wave goodbye and the character moved on no problem

 

[erinch]

Also request a table at the edge of the room at Toppolinos and Whispering, and less crowded at 50s. It might be a bit longer to wait. But not in the middle helps a lot!

 

[ZerasPride]

I can give you a tip for 50's Prime Time. When we checked in I requested less interaction and the hostess commented Oh you want a "babysitter". Our experience was so pleasant compared to the antics going on all around us. So give that a try. Enjoy your trip!

 

[Simba's Mom]

For any character meals - you don't have to get up and "chit chat" with them or hug them. Just wave at them when they come by and they are usually pretty good at picking up cues. My daughter is a little shy when put on the spot so she would usually just want a quick hug, picture then wave goodbye and the character moved on no problem

Yes to this! As a solo, I went to a character meal, just because it was in my hotel, available and convenient. But I'm very shy and didn't want interaction. The characters were excellent! Whenever they went by, they gave a little wave (like it's our secret) and if Minnie, she'd blow me a little kiss. I was amazed at their intuition, and as a result, I had a terrific time.