Inventions Sunday Brunch, 22 Sep 2013:

Disclaimer: we've never done the evening Inventions buffet, so I don't know whether there is any difference in the food or the number of characters. The Sunday brunch is dearer (65 Euros). You get a free glass of champagne, and there is a theme which you can email DLH in advance to find out. Ours was Hawaii. Over the Christmas period they were charging 80 Euros (the buffet in early January was 80 Euros and had an Ariel theme, so not a specifically Christmas themed one).

This was the highlight of our trip, and answered the age-old character meal question: do you go for the character interaction or the food? The answer here is resolutely both!

We were welcomed with smiles and directed to a small alcove near the buffet. There is a larger, more open area for larger parties and families, and two other seating areas in different rooms also.

Our characters were Pluto, Lilo, Stitch, Angel, Chip and Dale, Mickey and Minnie - the last four in Hawaiian shirts. We were there from 1.00 to 2.30 and at least one character was around at any time. They were just as happy to interact with adults as children - although they respected those who didn't want to take part. The trio of French ladies of a certain age next to us spent the whole meal talking quietly and ignoring the characters completely!

And the food? Oh my goodness. The food was amazing. We were brought a glass of champagne and a basket of rolls, and we started with fresh salads, soft cheese wrapped in parma ham, slices of smoked salmon, and the most delicious whole langoustine and crevettes.

The main courses included a baked ham with a pineapple glaze, lamb in a curry sauce, and various fish and chicken dishes, plus meatballs and veg dishes. I have to be honest here and say they weren't particularly hot, but they were very tasty.

The cheese selection is a star in itself - I counted at least 12 different types of cheese (and I think I probably tried them all!)

As for the desserts, you could make a meal of these alone. Gateaux, sponge cakes, cheesecakes, various fruit dishes, mousse-based creations, crème caramel, and delicious iles flottantes - delicate puffs of meringue in a creamy custard sauce.

We paid extra for two soft drinks and two lattes, which complemented the meal perfectly.

Our server was friendly without being over-effusive, and I loved that she took time to notice an anxious little girl behind us and reassure her that her mum was just over there and coming back soon. Now that's service. Quiet, understated and courteous.

While we were there, they brought out a large speaker, lit candles on a birthday cake, and then made an announcement while the characters all went over with the cake. A lovely way to celebrate - although I think if it was me, I would need the cake boxed up for later!

This is hands down the best character meal I've had anywhere, and almost the best food too (just nudged into second place by the California Grill tasting menu).

Yes, it's not cheap. But for the quality of food, service and interaction, it was worth it.

Breakfast at the Disneyland Hotel is open to all, whether or not you are staying there (although hotel guests get priority in the queue).

It costs 14 Euros per person, and has hot and cold options.

Your server takes your order for any hot drinks, and then you help yourself to juices if you wish.

Hot options include sausage, bacon, eggs, pancakes and waffles.

Cold options include several types of cold meats and cheeses, breads, jams and other spreads. There are also cereals, fruit and yoghurt.

Shareholder club members get a discount of 15% on the price, which makes it excellent value for what you get. UPDATE - as above, I don't think it is excellent value at the new price!

While the breakfast is not a character breakfast, characters do appear in the lobby outside the restaurant during the morning, so you can queue to meet them before or after your meal if you like.

We had an excellent breakfast here which made for a very relaxed start to the day. We weren't hungry again until evening!