A father was stunned after having an expensive meal in Disneyland.
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Experiencing breakfast at Disneyland has become a unique and extravagant affair. With the rise of themed dining experiences, guests no longer simply enjoy a morning meal; they indulge in an adventure that beckons them to spend lavishly. This was brought to light when a father recently shared his eye-popping breakfast bill that stirred considerable online discussion.
The father, John Tolkien, sat down with his family for what was marketed as an unforgettable dining experience—the Princess Breakfast Adventure. When the bill arrived, it totaled a staggering $937.65 for five people, which included a hefty tip of $150. This amount dwarfs typical theme park dining offerings, which usually hover around $20-$30 per person for a standard breakfast. The jaw-dropping cost immediately caught the attention of social media users, with many expressing disbelief at the escalating prices within Disney parks.
The Princess Breakfast Adventure
Guests entering the Princess Breakfast Adventure are welcomed into a majestic themed environment that transports them to a fairy-tale world. The ambiance is carefully curated, featuring elegant decor, enchanting music, and enchanting details that immerse diners into a beloved Disney narrative.
The menu, too, offers a plethora of choices that are a far cry from ordinary breakfast fare. Guests can relish gourmet options, including mini lobster rolls, truffle mac and cheese, and the ever-favored Mickey waffles. The dining experience features a thrilling three-course format, ensuring that guests are treated to more than just a quick meal. Throughout breakfast, children and adults alike have the opportunity to interact with iconic Disney princesses, creating delightful moments that will live on in memories.
“Princess Breakfast” at Disneyland with my kids. Almost spit out my coffee pic.twitter.com/05iO8AeCJ2
— John “Rock & Roll” Tolkien (@jrockandrollt) June 16, 2025
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The reaction on social media was swift and varied. John’s post regarding his surprising bill garnered over 140,000 likes, and thousands of comments flooded in. Many users expressed astonishment at the high price, tagging the experience as extravagant. Some users even directed comments towards the father, implying he should have been aware of the costs disclosed at the time of booking.
Comments ranged from humorous disbelief to outright criticism, with some users pointing out the responsibility of guests to check prices beforehand. Despite the backlash, a segment of commenters defended John, suggesting that Disney’s pricing strategy often catches visitors off guard. The conversation revealed a clash between expectations of the magical experience and the stark reality of premium pricing.
Ultimately, while the breakfast at Disneyland may not be a feasible option for everyone’s budget, it remains a memorable and magical experience that many families seek out. The chance to dine in an enchanting setting, savor unique dishes, and meet beloved characters creates cherished moments that can justify the splurge for some. It encourages the guests to weigh their options—whether they seek out a typical breakfast at a nearby diner or decide to indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience at a place that embodies magic and imagination.
Enjoy the memories with your kids during this type of experience, yes anything Disney related is very expensive, but where else is this going to happen. My daughter is much older now, but when she was around 8 years old we had breakfast in Cinderella Castle, it was expensive at the time, but the memories of her interacting with all the princesses will last a lifetime. Even her brothers, who were a few years older enjoyed it. How can you be “blindsided” when you know the price per person going in and how much extras cost, then you tip over 20% and wanna complain? With Disney, I am a little surprised that the receipt has a “suggested tip”, many times it is just automatically added and there is no choice and might depend on how many people, but that that is also known before you order.