Review: Breakfast à la Art at Topolino’s Terrace

If you’re looking for an upscale dining experience with delicious food, a gorgeous atmosphere, adorable character interactions, and don’t mind a hefty price tag…then Breakfast à la Art at Topolino’s Terrace might just be for you!

I had the opportunity to try out the character breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace, and I’m excited to share everything you need to know!

Arrival at Topolino’s Terrace

It was Christmas time when I first arrived at the Riviera Resort. It felt so festive to see beautiful holiday decor upon my entry to the resort. The decorations were in a traditional motif with lots of holiday greenery, blue satin ribbon, and white twinkle lights.

Since I was a little early for my reservation, I had plenty of time to explore the resort before heading up for breakfast.

I first made sure to check-in for my reservation. This was SO easy to do. I used the My Disney Experience app. With just a couple of clicks on my phone, I was all checked in. I instantly received a text message confirming my check-in.

Exploring the Grounds

While I was waiting for my table to be ready, I took a quick stroll through the grounds of the resort.

Here is the outdoor courtyard. I discovered beautiful landscaping, manicured hedges, and bright green lawns. Oh, and just look at those amazing palm trees lining the courtyard!

I also spotted lots of adorable garden swings, seating areas, Bocce Ball courts, and a fire pit.

To either the left and right of the center courtyard, you’ll find the two different resort pool areas. I saw lots of families out and enjoying their time in this space.

There’s no shortage of fun outdoor activities to enjoy at the Riviera, that’s for sure!

Even though the holidays were in full swing at Walt Disney World, I couldn’t help but notice the amazing Florida weather. Bright blue skies, big white clouds, and temps in the mid-70s… it felt ahhhhhmazing!

You won’t be able to deny that you’re on vacation while you’re here!

As I was out exploring, it wasn’t long before I got a text message notification that my table was ready. Hooray!

I made my way back into the resort and took the elevator to the 10th floor. Topolino’s Terrace is located on the top floor of the resort.

Did you know that Topolino is the Italian name for Mickey Mouse? How clever is that?! 😉

Topolino’s Terrace Atmosphere

Once I stepped off the elevator, I was immediately at the entrance of the restaurant. Since I were visiting amid the Coronavirus pandemic, I noted that there was hand sanitizer at the entrance as well as signage prompting the use of face coverings and mobile check-in.

I had already checked-in and received the text letting me know that my table was ready, so I was good to go!

Two friendly Cast Members greeted me as I entered the restaurant. They were so upbeat and escorted me to my table right away. I ended up chatting with them for a bit. They asked where I was from and we exchanged a few other pleasantries. I just love talking to Cast Members! I believe they really are the magic behind Walt Disney World. ❤️

On my way though, I couldn’t help but notice the beautiful beverage chillers in the entrance. Look at all of those amazing champagne and wine options!

Walking into Topolino’s Terrace, the restaurant looked warm and inviting. Giant windows line the entire restaurant. Natural lighting floods the entire space, making it feel so bright.

At just about any angle of the restaurant, you can catch amazing views of the resort, plus the neighboring Caribbean Beach Resort, and Skyliner. It is breathtaking but also creates a sense of airiness to the restaurant.

Topolino’s Terrace has a classic upscale feel to it. The cabinetry, seating booths, and tables were made of a rich espresso finish. In contrast, the walls, flooring, and upholstery are in a champagne color, while pops of brass and gold are used in the hardware and finishes.

The carpet is in a contemporary pattern. A deep wine color with more champagne and beige colors weave throughout. The carpet adds a bit of warmth and anchors down the openness of the restaurant.

You can’t help but notice the unique yet gorgeous light fixtures. They reminded me of a mix of a 1920’s Flapper style dress and a sea anemone. LOL! Whatever they are, the color and sparkle they add to the atmosphere are pretty incredible.

As I continued walking to the table, I also saw a bar area at the front of the restaurant, opposite the side of the kitchen. At that time of our visit, it was empty. This is probably due to the limited capacity of the restaurant and because we were visiting during breakfast time.

I can imagine though, that during the dinner hour or into the evening this would be a popular place to share a delicious cocktail or two. 😀

Digital Menus, Limited Table Settings & Safety Measures

Once I was seated at my table, my server let me know that the menus would be in a digital format. I used my phone to scan the QR Code to see the menu options. I was also given that little white card pictured above. It listed the breakfast drink options. Some of these drinks were seasonal offerings and were not listed on the digital menu.

There weren’t any tables clothes, placemats, or place settings at my table either. Typically, Topolino’s Terrace has the table all set up with beautiful place settings. I think this made the table feel a bit sparse. However, I do understand the reason for not having these available.

As far as space and physical distancing, I did feel very safe. There was a ton of space between me and the other guests. I didn’t have anyone seated in front of or next to me. There was a family seated to my far left and behind me, but they were at least 15 feet or more away. There was a ton of space!

Because Topolino’s is a spacious restaurant, it appears as if it would be easy for Disney to spread guests apart here. If physical distancing is a concern of yours, Topolino’s might be a great option for you!

Topolino’s Terrace Breakfast Offerings

Once I was seated, my server took my drink order right away. I ordered a glass of water and coffee. It all came out very quickly.

The coffee arrived in its own stainless steel carafe and a saucer full of half and half. I don’t take my coffee with any sweeteners, so the server didn’t bring those out. The coffee was a rich dark french roast. It was very delicious!

I also ordered the Sangria Speziata. This became one of my favorite items of the entire meal! This sangria was made from a Chianti, Tuaca, apple cider, cinnamon, and allspice.

Normally, I don’t like super sweet alcoholic drinks, but this wasn’t sweet at all. The flavors of the wine plus the cinnamon and allspice made this a real treat. It was perfect for the holiday season. And I loved it!

It also had a little bit of sugar lining the rim and was garnished with fruit and a twig of red clover. This made for a delicious and pretty breakfast beverage!

Soon after my drinks had made their way out, I was served an assortment of pastries and spreads.

The pastries were served in a painter’s paint palette type of tray. How cute is that?! But that only makes the most sense, as the characters are themed to be studying art school abroad in Europe. I loved how Disney always thinks of the most amazing details.

My knife was even in the shape of a paint brush!!

The pastries included an assortment of mini chocolate chip muffins, croissants, and maple filled danishes.

And the trio of sauces included a bright raspberry sauce, chocolate hazelnut spread, and fresh whip cream.

I really enjoyed all of the pastries. They were fresh and made for a great aperitif! I made sure to just take a bite of each. I didn’t want to get full and spoil my breakfast. My favorite was definitely the crusty croissants. I added a little bit of the raspberry sauce and whip cream. Divine!

Topolino’s Terrace Character Interactions

As I was enjoying my pastries and Sangria, the characters started to make their way around the restaurant. At Topolino’s Terrace, you’ll be able to meet Mickey, Minnie, Donald, and Daisy.

The characters are art school students studying abroad in Europe. All of their outfits show off their skill; Mickey the painter, Minnie the poet, Donald the sculptor, and Daisy the ballerina.

They were all so adorable!

As the characters made their way out to greet guests, I heard an announcement over the loudspeaker. The announcement let me know which character was coming around, a little background to what they are studying in art school, a reminder to have my camera ready, and a little blurb about remaining in my seat.

At this time, you aren’t able to get up and hug the characters. The characters do, however, make sure to stop at each table while still keeping a safe distance.

They are very animated. You’ll be able to see the characters wave, blow kisses, and even dance around! Daisy performed a special little dance routine as she waltzed past my table!

I was able to see all of the characters make their way around twice during my breakfast. After all of the characters make their solo rounds, all four then come out together and performed a little dance around the entire restaurant. It was a lot of fun to watch!!

Topolino’s Terrace Breakfast à la Art

Almost as if it was perfectly timed, my breakfast came out right after I had met all of the characters.

I ordered the sour cream waffle with a side of bacon. Let me just tell you… this entree did not disappoint!!!

The roasted apples and raspberry combo added a bit of freshness to the waffle. The waffle had the best texture! It was perfectly crisp on the outside, but light and fluffy on the inside. There was also a dusting of powdered sugar that added just the right amount of sweetness.

I also really loved the chantilly whipped cream. It was light and whipped to perfection. I could taste a hint of vanilla in there too. The thing that really sets this meal apart was the orange-maple syrup. The citrus of the orange was just enough to make the waffle, fruit, and chantilly all mend together. It was very tasty and I would happily recommend it to anyone, especially if you’re a waffle lover.

You also better believe that I smothered my bacon in that orange-maple syrup too! The salty-sweet combo was to die for!!

As I was wrapping up my breakfast, my server presented me with this fun little card. Since the characters aren’t able to sign autographs right now, they are offering this instead.

While it isn’t quite the same as a signature from Mickey Mouse, it is nice that Disney at least thought of an alternative. And the card is really cute! It’s the perfect size to tack onto a bulletin board or tuck away in a memory book as a little memento from your trip.

Topolino’s Terrace Pricing

Once I was done with my breakfast, my server was quick to clean up my plates and bring out the check.

While I loved my time at Topolino’s Terrace, it should be noted that this isn’t a cheap experience! My service was outstanding, the atmosphere was gorgeous, and my interactions with the characters were just TOO fun…but as you can see below, my breakfast for just me alone ended up being over $70 once I included the tip.

For a family of three or more, you could easily see how this would be a very pricey meal. Topolino’s Terrace is in the Signature Dining category, so the price isn’t completely outrageous, especially when you compare it to other restaurants in this tier such as Cinderella’s Royal Table.

The current price for an adult breakfast is $35-$55. Children’s breakfast is about $27. These prices do not include any alcoholic drinks, tax, or tip.

You can see the full menus and prices at Topolino’s Terrace here.

As far as discounts go, there are a couple that can be used at Topolino’s Terrace. DVC members can save 10%. If you have Tables in Wonderland you can score 20% off. Sadly though, there isn’t a discount for Annual Passholders at this time.

A few More Important Things to Know

• Be sure to make your dining reservation in advance. With the reopening phase of Walt Disney World, you are able to make advanced dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. This is a popular dining location, and without advanced reservations, you may miss out.
• There is also a dress code. Disney does ask that you wear dressier attire to this location. Shorts, jeans, and t-shirts are ok, but bathing suits, jeans with holes are anything that looks too casual may not be allowed. It is a Signature level restaurant, so just keep that in mind while you’re planning your trip.

After I had closed out my check, my server let me know that I was welcome to check out the outdoor terrace. This can be accessed right from the dining room of the restaurant.

I gladly took him up on the suggestion. It was absolutely lovely being able to enjoy the outdoor seating, sunshine, and the amazing views of the resort and Skyliner.

There’s even an outdoor bar here! It wasn’t open while I was there, but I definitely have plans to return and enjoy a cocktail at this beautiful setting!

My Final Thoughts on Breakfast à la Art at Topolino’s Terrace

Overall, I had a very enjoyable experience at Topolino’s Terrace and I can’t wait to go again! The Riviera Resort is stunning, and my food and dining experience was top notch! I would highly recommend the resort and Topolino’s Terrace restaurant to anyone headed to Disney.

BUT…I also want to make everyone aware that it does come with a hefty price tag and while the character meets are fun, but they aren’t quite the same without a hug and a real autograph. You’ll have to decide ahead of time if a $70 breakfast is worth it to you – especially if you’re not getting the full experience of a typical character breakfast.

I hope this review was helpful to you. I want to make sure that you can get a clear understanding of what to expect in regards to Breakfast à la Art at Topolino’s Terrace. Visiting Walt Disney World during a pandemic can be a bit challenging, but being informed and planning ahead makes all the difference.

Follow Along!

If there’s something I didn’t cover, please leave me a comment below or reach out to me on any of my social media channels. I’d love to help you with any questions you might have while planning your Disney vacation.

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More Character Dining Posts:

Chef Mickey’s: Why We Love it! Plus a Few Tips to Make it More Affordable