The Newlyweds eat,drink, eat again and stumble around the world ddxp 5/31-6/7

[pixie08]

Hi everyone!

Dh (mousepotato) and I decided that for our first anniversary it was only fitting to travel back to the place where the magic began a year before. Walt Disney World. See we had found out a few years back that we both just loved this place. I for the wonderful feelings it brought back and for DH for the wonderful feelings it provided to his stomach...oh and yeah the feelings too.:laughing:

Anyway a couple of years back DH decide to propose to me on the beach of the Poly during wishes (after a dinner at Narcoosee's) and two years later we were saying our I do's at the GF Wedding Pavilion followed by a reception at The Boardwalk. Considering our anniversary we decided to try the deluxe dining plan.

For those of you who do not know this entitles you to 3 TS (can also be used as CS) credits and 2 snacks per day. Sounds crazy? Why yes it is!

This is why we decided to have a very light breakfast in our room or some days with our credits, do a sit down lunch and then a signature restaurant for dinner.

I did take as many pics as possible except one night mousepotato left the camera back in the room..oh no I was not thrilled but I quickly got over it after a refreshing mojito:rotfl2: We had some wonderful dining experiences, took the keys to the kingdom tour which was so great and overall just enjoyed ourselves.

What you can look foward to:

Sat 5/31- arrival day
Boardwalk Bakery (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=2)
Espn Zone (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=2)
Private Dinner at the Boardwalk (paid out of pocket) (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=2)

Sun 6/1
Main Street Bakery
Plaza Restaurant (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=2)
Aloha Isle
Pretzel carts- Fantasy land
Narcoosee's (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=3)

Mon 6/2
Sci-Fi (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=4)
Snack Stand
Brown Derby (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?t=1859789&page=4)

Tues 6/3
Tutto Italia (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25861612&posted=1#post25861612)
Tasty Sensations- Boardwalk
Yachstmen Steakhouse (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25931411&posted=1#post25931411)

Weds 6/4
Tusker House- Lunch (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25931411&posted=1#post25931411)
Jiko (http://www.disboards.com/showthread.php?p=25967605#post25967605)

Thurs 6/5
Sunshine Seasons
Coral Reef
Sommerfest
Margarita stand
lotus blossom cafe
kringla bakeri og cafe
Flying Fish

Fri 6/6
Columbia Harbour House
California Grill

Sat 6/7
Spoodles- Breakfast


So please keep all arms and legs inside the vehicle and enjoy the ride:moped:

[ciera321]

I can't wait!!!:goodvibes

[danalee]

Ready!:moped:

[DanaAustinChelsea]

I am waiting too! Hope to see something when I wake up ::yes::

[mamaboogie]

I love it!::yes::

Cannot wait to see pics!:yay:

[10_Kyle_10]

Cant wait to hear/see all your amazing dinners and drinks! We are a young couple that also seems to follow your title of eating, drinking, eating and stumbling around the world ;)

[TigerKat]

I'm in.......popcorn::

[phabric]

I will be looking forward to your reviews.

[MickeyNicki]

Got my bib on, lets go!

[suzimar57]

let the reviews begin - i'm ready! popcorn::

(you were waiting for me to join in, right??!!)

[frootie]

I'm looking for the pics to enjoy while i eat my breakfast :)

[John's Mom]

I'm in! :surfweb:

[ChelleinNC]

I'm in :goodvibes

[Minniespal]

Looking forward to reading more:thumbsup2

[bakerhouse]

Can't wait to read and see pictures!

Don't keep us in suspense................

[mickeysgirl17]

Trying to wait patiently....

[GoofySon'sMom]

I'm all strapped in! :thumbsup2

[luckytobeme88]

please hurry! your intro lures me in already..

[faberj]

I'm in too! popcorn::

[nswift]

Can't wait....:thumbsup2

[Sam'sMom0126]

I'm in! :drinking1

[disneybound31]

Ready!!

[SunnieRN]

Happy Anniversary!! Looking forward to your reviews and pics!!

[pixie08]

Thank you everyone. Ok 3....2....1.....TAKE OFF!

We arrived at the Boardwalk at around 10am. We were starved and ESPN did not open until 11am (mousepotato really wanted to do this since he did it with friends last year). Well normally we would have bit the bullet and waited until 11am but we were in Disney folks. I felt like a cartoon...enjoying my stroll on the Boardwalk as the sweet delicious smell floats looking for prey, and it finds it in me.

Me: Honey do you smell that?
DH: uh huh...smells good
Me: start running toward bakery with cupcake in mind.

We get in line at the bakery...can you belive it? These people have the nerve to want a cupcake at the same time as me? Well luckily no scene was caused because there was a cupcake or two left. Dh and I decided to not be really piggy and get our own so we split.

Where: Boardwalk Bakery
credit: 1 snack
Item: Cupcake
approx cost:$3
review: Priceless :faint:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D314-1.jpg
Ah yes this is the stuff my heaven is made of. Sugary, sweet, buttery, fluffy goodness. All joking aside it was a great cupcake. I really enjoyed it and would pay for it anyday- or everyday for that matter.

Where: ESPN club
credit: 2 table service
Items: macho nachos,red wings, 2 cesear salds with grilled chicken,gelato, chocolate pretzels
approx cost including tax (not tip) $63.24
review: C

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D315-1.jpg

As you can see mousepotato is very excited to be eating here, after all sports, personal TV's and nachos is pretty much his sports dream:bitelip: So we started with nachos and wings since that is pretty much what is on the menu. The wings were not my fav but I am not a huge wing eater but Dh also agree the wings were not the best. that was disappointing since it is a sports bar right? Well the nachos were actually really good. Nothing special but still good. We decided just to get 2 chx cesear salds since we were already getting full. They were not great. The chicken was clearly pre cooked and salad soaked in dressing. I much prefer the salad I had at the brewery last year. dessert was also pretty disappointing. i had sugar free gealto- it was decent and DH had a dessert called chocolate covered pretzels? yeah not pretzels more like cookies shaped like pretzels with choc dip on the side. Service was good although it had just opened and was still slow. as you can see we were not to enthusiastic about the meal so we didn't even take pics. The setting was definitly cool but we have a mega espn ZONE HERE IN nyc so most likely we willnot be going back anytime soon to this location.


Where: Boardwalk Convention center
credit: 0
Items: private meal I set up a surprise for our first anniversary
approx cost including tax (not tip) : way more than I care to post;)
review: A+++++

So this was a private dinner I had set up with the chef who created the dinner for our wedding- Chef Dennis. This guy is simply amazing. What a show and what a dinner. Dan was blown away as was I. It was one of the best experiences we have ever had. Especially because it was so interactive and the set up the kitchen right there so we could watch them prepare. They set us up a tbale inside because there had been a fire in the are and the soot was travelling, also it was really hot so we didn't mind not being on the pretty patio.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D318-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D320-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D321-2.jpg

Warm Goat Cheese Strudel with Baby Greens and Sugared Pecans serves with a Balsamic Vinaigrette and Tomato Chive Relish
Paired With Saint M Pfalz QBA Riesling
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D324-2.jpg


Roasted Chicken Consommé served over Vegetable Quenelles and Chervil
Paired With Saint M Pfalz QBA Riesling
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D325-1.jpg
this was mousepotato's fav because it was so intersting even though it is simply prepared- very fresh

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D326-1.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D327-1.jpg
custom made butters that were out of this world

Freshly Made Champagne Sorbet served with Shaved Valrohanna chocolate
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D329-1.jpg
um yuuuum!

Blood Orange and Herb marinated Black Angus tenderloin of Beef topped with Wild Mushroom and Truffle Mousse finished with a Merlot Demi
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D332-1.jpg
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D330-1.jpg

Red Snapper on Wilted Baby Spinach topped with Smoked Shrimp and Caramelized Leeks served with a Mango Papaya Relish
Accompanied by Oven Roasted Fingerling Potatoes and Sautéed Baby Vegetables
Paired with Navarro Correas Malbec, Mendoza

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D336-1.jpg

Imported Cheese Sampler with Dried Fruits and Honey Combs
Paired With Lynmar Pinot Noir
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D335-1.jpg


Just an amazing experience. I had thought of doing V&A's but we had gone there a few times and plan to go back so I wanted to do something out of the ordinary. This was it!

up next.... Good morning, Good morning

[TigerKat]

WOW is all I can say to the BW private dining experience, looks amazing!:thumbsup2

After that I almost hate to comment on this but DH just loves ESPN's chicken wings and must have them at least two or three times each trip. I hope, for his sake, that you guys caught them on a bad day.;)

Can't wait for more reviews!!!!

[nemmie]

Ummmm YUMMY and Hi sweetie xxxx

[suzimar57]

lovely pictures at BW - and the cupcake looks good, too!

[pixie08]

Tigerkat- oh I hope so because as I said DH had it last year and loved them. The wings were almost grizzly and fatty- maybe it was just the first batch?

Nemmie- hello love, I thave always wanted to do one of these;)

Suzimar- thank you!

So the next moring we awoke bright and early and head off to the Mgic Kingdom. We were there for the opening ceremony and then grabbed some breakfast at the bakery.

Where: Main Street Bakery
credit: 2 meal credits
Item: ham,egg and cheese croissant, french toast slice, 2 cups of fruit and 2 coffees
approx cost:$24.00
review: A

This is always a pleaser and a favorite. The egg sandwiches are better here than anywhere else. Flaky croissant and gooey cheese. Top that off with yummy gooey french toast bread and being on Main Street USA and that's what I call breakfast.

Where: Plaza Restaurant
credit: 2 meal credits
Item: 2 Iced teas, 2 ruebens with fries, banana split, milkshake
approx cost:$39.99
review: B

The Plaza:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D085.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D084.jpg

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http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D088.jpg

the view:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D091.jpg

The meal:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D089.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D092.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D090.jpg

Overall I say very good meal. I liked the rueben the bread was buttered and nice and toasted and loved the fries. Mousepotato was on the fence about the reuben but is so much more of a burger or club type of guy. He just wanted to try something new. The milkshake was yummy and Dh thouroughly enjoyed his split! It had choc, vanilla, strawberry ice cream, choc sauce, strawberry sauce, pineapple, whip cream, banana, nuts and a cherry on top. all the works and really imo 2 people can split this but dh did fine on his own.

[kabuki]

Can't wait for more!
The private dinning looked amazing..bring on the cheese cart:cool1:

[pixie08]

Can't wait for more!
The private dinning looked amazing..bring on the cheese cart:cool1:

hahah that cheese cart was amazing! Dh almost died and went to heaven. They even gave us little cards with the cheese names and descriptions like at a restaurant except each cheese had a card and a story!

I noticed we will be at F&W at the same time...I can not wait for that!

[kabuki]

hahah that cheese cart was amazing! Dh almost died and went to heaven. They even gave us little cards with the cheese names and descriptions like at a restaurant except each cheese had a card and a story!

I noticed we will be at F&W at the same time...I can not wait for that!

YES! We will! We are too excited about it!
If they ever list the special events :confused3 maybe we will be at some of the same?!

[pixie08]

YES! We will! We are too excited about it!
If they ever list the special events :confused3 maybe we will be at some of the same?!

I know I can not wait much longer for those darn events:rotfl2:It would be great to run into some disboards friends during F&W!


recaps cont'd

So after lunch at the Plaza and riding a few more rides we decided to head back to the Boardwalk. We had ressies at Narcoosee's for 6pm and wanted to rest and wash up. One lesson I learned this trip:

Lots o' food + mega heat + lots o' sugar= 2 tired big kids needing a cat nap:laughing:


Anyway after washing up resting and changing we headed back to MK to grab the boat to the GF. This was somewhat of a special meal also because we had not been back to Narcoosee's since mousepotato proposed 3 years ago. I do not know why we never went back- we just didn't. So it was a nice way to celebrate again. Hey who needs an excuse to celebrate in Disney?

Where: Narcoosee's
credit: 4 table service
Items: mango margarita, rasberry mojito, 2 cokes, crab cakes, tuna tartare, 2 lobster dinners, sorbet trio, cheese platter
approx cost including tax (not tip):$197.30 total ($17.00 paid oop for drinks)
review: A-

This was an amazing meal. I mentioned to the girl who was making our ADR's that it was our anniversary and so she must have noted it because they had a special printed menu waiting for us. The service was some of the best we had at Disney. The meal was delicous...nothing we didn't like. The crab cakes were fresh crab, just seared and so tasty. The tuna was so fresh and light. The lobster was cooked perfectly and the desserts did not dissappoint! I would highly recommend this place. There is also a wonderful view of MK! Great choice for seafood lovers.

Your author very excited to be be returning to this place...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D110-2.jpg

The interior- very pretty
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D112-2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D114-2.jpg

That nights menu...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D113-2.jpg

the view from our table- which shhhh would be a great spot to watch wishes
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D116-2.jpg

yummy mango margarita
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D118-2.jpg

mousepotato's refreshing and tasty rasberry mojito
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D119-2.jpg

ahi tuna taratre with fennel and blood orange vinigrette served with pepper dusted wontons!
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D121-2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D120-2.jpg

Great crab cakes
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D122-1.jpg

the amazing sourdough bread they served warm..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D123-1.jpg

Everything else was equally a scrumptious! I just got carried away and din't snap piccies. The lobster was huge and was over 1 1/2 lb. Dessert was good...I stuck to sorbet though because I wanted to enjoy my dole whip at the MK.:worship:

Where: Aloha isle & Fantasy land Pretzel stand
credit: 2 snack credits
Items: Dole whip float, soft pretzel
approx cost including tax (not tip):$8.60
review: A++++

Well let me tell you mousepotato is obsessed with pretzels. We have to try them in evry park and they can never match the ones in Fantasyland near the pooh playground for him. They are soft on the inside and firm on the outside and never stale. Well enough about that. My obesseion? The dole whip- I mean I at sorbet for dessert at dinner for pete's sake for this stuff. Soft creamy refeshing goodness. Dh just doesn't get- ugh men:lmao:

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D163-1.jpg

Up next..You have an urgent call from Mickey Mouse and he wants to know how your grapefruit cake is!

[TigerKat]

So glad to read yet another stellar review of Narcoossee's. We're trying it for the first time next trip, can't wait!!!

[iluvpluto27]

Wow, can't believe I missed these reviews. The private dining looked fantastic, do you mind me asking is the cost comparable to V&A? And do you get to choose the exact menu, or do you just let them know what you can't eat?

Great review of Narcoosees too, looking forward to going back there in September now.

[bolgers love wdw]

yum,yum,yum!!! :yay:
Keep those reviews coming our way!!!

[dawgfan]

Great reviews thanks.

[luvpooh]

wow, what great reviews! That private dining looked amazing, if we weren't already overbooked for our October trip, I'd book it as a surprise for DH!
You guys are a lot like us, we're newlyweds, frequent Disney visitors, same age, and we have similar eating tastes. When will you be there for F&WF? It would be cool to do a lap around the world with some other folks sometime!

[suzimar57]

have never been inside the plaza restaurant - it looks quite lovely! - and the view of the castle is wonderful! - isn't narcoosees a gem?! - we love it there - and you both seem so happy during your visit there! - the photos are great, especially those crabcakes - we get them every time! - enjoying your reviews and photos - keep them coming! :goodvibes

[jerseygal]

Love wings and nachos! Like chicken caesar too...Dissapointed to hear this, but I'll keep following!

Glad to hear you loved Narcoosees!! On our ADR as well!

Happy Anniversary! The menu was cool!:)

[princessdaisy]

Yummmm! enjoying your report! sounds like you had a great time and Happy Anniversary:cloud9:

[HonnyDipp]

Can't wait to see the pictures!

[BCV2002]

Subscribing. Love to read your review. You're eating at some of our faves!

[honeybee30]

mousepotato....too funny! :lmao:

Edited to add: That private dining meal looked incredible & how romantic!

[KatGarcia]

I am so in! great so far! I'd love to know more about that private dining meal...maybe you could PM me some details...how romantic that was!!! Can't wait for more! also looks like tomorrow/today (its late) is your anniversary! Happy Anniversary!!!!

[kimgof]

great reviews. Im in!:goodvibes

[oybolshoi]

Really enjoying your reviews!

That private dining experience at the BW looked divine. And the cheese ... :love: I think I would have asked them to roll the whole darn thing up to our room so we could munch on it during the length of our stay. :lmao:

[mcrabeck]

Great Reviews! Thank you for sharing you photos:thumbsup2

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

Great reviews thanks! :thumbsup2

[annie1995]

I really love your review!!! Can't wait for more!!!

[whogirl'smom]

I'm enjoying your reviews! The private dining looked like a wonderful anniversary gift to yourselves. Now, I have to say, I love me a good Dole Whip float, but you skipped the almond crusted cheesecake at Narcoossee's? :scared1: :scared1: :faint: (It's okay, I've regained consciousness now!) I'm with you on the French toast loaf at Main St. Bakery, though; I would skip many a TS breakfast for a slice of that!

[Disneyof3]

::yes::

Great pictures and reviews. Happy Anniversary!!! I have heard bad reviews about the Plaza in MK, but the inside and your food looked really good and of course YUMMY!!! Thanks again

[pixie08]

Thank you everyone. I must say I have been a member of the Disboards for quite a few years but this is the first full dining review I have done and I am really enjoying it!

luvpooh- we will be there Oct 5-10...I am very excited!

honeybee- hahaha no that is really his screen name on here "mousepotato" he just does not post that much lol!I think it is such a good name for him :)


Oh just 2 pics I had to add in...

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D105-2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D106-2.jpg

[pixie08]

The next day we decided to go to HS...ok can I say this will always be MGM to me? Even some cast members still called it MGM::yes::

Where: Sci-fi Dine In
credit: 2 table service
Items: 2 cherry cokes, salad, onion rings, 2 angus chuck burgers,milkshake, sundae.
approx cost including tax (not tip):$56.47
review: B

So I have to say I had mixed feelings going into this. We had eaten at Sci-fi but quite a few years ago and as a kid we ate here with my family. It was another burger and shake place so that was why I was mixed because we had Plaza the day before. Sci-fi did not disappoint. I was probably lucky I did not get the burger the day before because that was what was calling name here. I liked that it had cheddar (or swiss) onions, mushrooms, and bacon. Dh decided to order the onion rings as an app which were amazing. I tried to be a little better since I had a burger coming and ordered the salad...well that backfired. I really didn't like it too much. The dressing was a bit watery. We really liked that we were able to get flavored soda as our drink on the meal plan...this is the perfect place for a cherry or vanilla coke! The burgers were terrific and the fries more than respectable. I really enjoyed my shake that I had for dessert even better than the one at the plaza. Dh had the hot fudge sundae which he proclaimed as "yum" but preffered the split aat the plaza. Yes it is hard not to compare what you had the day before but all in all this was a great meal for 1ts credit imo! Also the atmosphere is what really makes it.

PS I apologize for any blurry photos. I just got a great canon rebel for my b-day (from dh) it is an awesome camera but much more difficult to use than my elph lol!

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D174-1.jpg

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yum, yum...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D179-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D180-1.jpg

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http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D182-1.jpg

strawberry shake...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D183-1.jpg

[pixie08]

For dinner we decided to eat at the Brown Derby. One of my favorite dishes in the "world" is here. The Salmon with gorgonzola and marscopone polenta. When we arrived we noticed the menu had changed a bit. For instance the filet is off the menu (oh the horror :scared1: ) and replaced with a strip. This has been one of my families must do places every trip (we used to go for lunch and cobb salad) so it is a bit nostalgic for me. Mousepotato is always willing to go anywhere.

Where: Hollwood Brown Derby
credit: 4 table service
Items: 2 sodas, a glass of wine, a manhattan, crab cakes, coat cheese cremini ravioli, 2 salmon dishes, grapefruit cake,banana tower
approx cost including tax (not tip):$117.00 ($22 od whixh was paid oop)
review: B+

First I should say the service here was amzing. The server found out it was our anniversary and had us recieve a special call from mickey on an old fashioned phone the plug in near your table:rotfl2: She also gave us a free glass of sparkling wine which was really nice.

Now on to the food. It was good and we enjoyed it. Was the crab cake as good as Narcoosee's?No way. Salmon is always a pleaser and even dh who NEVER orders salmon got it. The food was tasty and still imo one of the best in park restaurants (minus the WS ones). However, we did feel that is possibly not worth the 2 ts credits per person. Again not that we didn't enjoy it but when you think you are paying 2 ts credits and that is the same you are using for Jiko, Clai Grill, Narcoosee's, citricos, artist point etc we began to think this place was much better done if paid oop when not on the meal plan. We ate here last year and used the DDE and thought that was good deal. Well anyway that's just my 2 cents. Back to the food....

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D199-2.jpg

Mousepotato ordered a manhattan? what? Well his response was it is just the sort of drink you order in this place. Um ok, sauvignon blanc fro me please:lmao:
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D202-2.jpg

I had to get proof that he drank
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D203-2.jpg

and finished it. He said he really got a good buzz off of it and considering it was cheaper than my wine maybe he was on to something. I tried it but blech... I will keep to my wine thanks.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D207-2.jpg

crab cake...good but that traditional fried crab cake you are used to getting, sauce was good.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D204-2.jpg

goat cheese cremini ravioli with fennel, peas and ham tomato broth- I loved this!
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D206-2.jpg

Best fish dish...Salmon with a yummy balsmaic sauce over a creamy marscopone polenta with gorgonzola cheese- Yum-o!!!
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D206-2.jpg

grapefruit cake- dh was upset because the candied grapfruit slice was missing, also it tasted way more bitter than it had ever been in the past.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D208-2.jpg

I had the banana tower with banana "foster"- this was a nice treat but it was very rich.
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D209-2.jpg

The phone call..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D210-2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D211-2.jpg

So all in all it was good fun. Good food, great service and wonderful ambience!

Up next- a day off from the parks to do what? Well eat some more of course. Tutto Italia and Yachtsmen.

[ChelleinNC]

I do love that salmon at Brown Derby :love: the polenta is the best!!!!! We love Brown Derby, it's our favorite restaurant. The food & service are outstanding. Quality wise, I think it's worth 2 TS credits, but price wise, it's not. When we were down there 2 weeks ago we actually spent more for 4 at Norway's princess dinner than we did at Brown Derby (where we had a couple of drinks, the cobb salad appy & 4 desserts). We also ate at Yachtsman that trip and service at Brown Derby was much better--I think we just had a bum waiter.

Looking forward to the rest of your reviews :goodvibes

[pixie08]

I do love that salmon at Brown Derby :love: the polenta is the best!!!!! We love Brown Derby, it's our favorite restaurant. The food & service are outstanding. Quality wise, I think it's worth 2 TS credits, but price wise, it's not. When we were down there 2 weeks ago we actually spent more for 4 at Norway's princess dinner than we did at Brown Derby (where we had a couple of drinks, the cobb salad appy & 4 desserts). We also ate at Yachtsman that trip and service at Brown Derby was much better--I think we just had a bum waiter.

Looking forward to the rest of your reviews :goodvibes

Right. I think the food was great and we looove it as well. but the bill was under $100 for the food so I am just not sure it is worth it for some people to use 2 ts vredits on it, but I did enjoy it. We were there the same time! i know those princess meals get super expensive. I hope you had a great trip.

[Terk-1]

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D106-2.jpg

AHHH!!!!! Just saw my favorite treat in all of WDW!!!!! GIANT Plain Mickey Rice Crispie Treat!!!!! Brought 2 home with me on my last trip. Had a fellow employee bring 2 back for me a couple of months ago (of course I paid him for it).

[honeybee30]

honeybee- hahaha no that is really his screen name on here "mousepotato" he just does not post that much lol!I think it is such a good name for him :)

I think it is a cute name and one that quite accurately describes me as well because I spend so much time surfing the Disboards! :laughing:

The next day we decided to go to HS...ok can I say this will always be MGM to me? Even some cast members still called it MGM::yes::

Viva la MGM! :yay:

For dinner we decided to eat at the Brown Derby. One of my favorite dishes in the "world" is here. The Salmon with gorgonzola and marscopone polenta.

That is some slammin' salmon! :goodvibes

[TigerKat]

Great reviews, that salmon looked really good!!:thumbsup2

[SoonipiLady]

We've got ressies for Narcoossee's, Tutto & the Yachtsman for our anniversary trip this September. (as well as Cali Grille and a few others!)

The pics are great!

Karen

[KatGarcia]

That food looks yummy! I never really remember being too interested in the menu from there....you may have changed my mind!

[mama03]

My hubby and I will be at F&W too, from Oct.5th thru the 10th. We will be staying at the BWV. Love your reviews and pics. Can any guest request a private dinner at the BW?

[Philadisney]

Your report is great so far - outstanding pictures! The private dinner at the Boardwalk Convention center seems like such a great idea - the food from that meal looks absolutely fabulous. I am looking forward to reading more!

[honeybee213]

thanks for the great reviews:thumbsup2

[pixie08]

Thank you everyone!

The next day we decided not to go to any parks. We were just going to lazy and hang out at the Hotel.This is hard to do when you are staying at the BW! So we decided to use our Tutto Italia Lunch reservation and were pleasently suprised.

Where: Tutto Italia
credit: 2 table service
Items: 2 sodas, Fresante, Antipasto Misto, Bucatini, Chicken cutlet Milanese,Copetta soto bosco
approx cost including tax (not tip):$102.50 ($10 paid oop)
review: A-

So I must say this was the shock of the trip. I had never been and was not expecting too much. Well it turned out to be one of my favorites, plus imo it is an amzing deal on the meal plan because of it's pricier menu.

I am so picky about Italian food because being from NY and growing up in NYC well let's just say the Italian is good. This was just a thumbs up. I had a drink called a frissante (sp?). It was a bit bitter but refreshing. It was sparkling wine, campari and juice. For the appetizer we shared the Antipasto Misto which serves 2. The proscuitto was so good and the cheeses were just so fresh. Mousepotato had the Bucatini with a parmesan cream sauce, peas and proscuitto. Man was that good. really rich so my stomach could probably not handle it but man oh man delish. I had the cutlet milanese which was equally as good but in a lighter fresher way. Even though the cutlet is fried it is crispy and light and so thin but still tender. Beautiful arugala and tomato come with it as well as fresh lemon. For dessert dh had a gelato, berry and cream concoction and I drowned in my delicious pistachio gelato- Bueno!


A beautiful lime tree on the patio
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D220-2.jpg

Interior which is very pretty...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D212-3.jpg

the oil and bread also they serve olives with it- yum..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D213-3.jpg

Our antipasto
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D214-3.jpg

my drink which tasted like sparkling grapefruit
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D215-3.jpg

milanese
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D217-3.jpg

sinful bucatini
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D218-3.jpg

dessert
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D219-3.jpg

[TigerKat]

My oh my, how I wish we could fit this in on our next trip, the antipasto alone looks like it would be worth a trip for me....:)

[pixie08]

My oh my, how I wish we could fit this in on our next trip, the antipasto alone looks like it would be worth a trip for me....:)

Then you must try it one day! I am sure you will like it. Maybe for lunch because I think that appetizer and maybe one entree could suffice. Well that is of course considering my habit of all the eating of snacks afterward around the world:rotfl2:

[teruterubouzu]

Wow! All of that looks so good -- especially the antipasto. And, I may have to try to recreate that cocktail at home.

[honeybee30]

Yum! Tutto Italia looks awesome! I can't wait to eat there in August. I really like Campari, too. I'll have to try it in a champagne cocktail.

[faindrops27]

Oh my yummy!! I am loving your reviews!!

By the way congrats on your anniversary!!:goodvibes

[10_Kyle_10]

Looks sooo good...wish we too could fit it in next trip!

[GoofySon'sMom]

Wow, the food from Tutto looks so good! And you both ordered exactly what DS and I plan to order in August! :thumbsup2

[O_Jr71]

Great Reviews:thumbsup2 can't wait for the rest!!!!

[mommy22pumpkins]

hello! Can you tell me what the Milanese dish is? It looks so delish I'd love to order it when we go in Sept.

thanks,

Danielle

[Princesswanabee]

Wow, I just found you and can't wait for more food reviews! Keep 'em coming!!!

[iluvpluto27]

Tutto looks great, so glad I have a lunch adr there for our next trip!

[pixie08]

Thank you so much everyone! I should be writing an update by tommorrow. Just getting some more pics uploaded. Yachstmen will be next.

hello! Can you tell me what the Milanese dish is? It looks so delish I'd love to order it when we go in Sept.

thanks,

Danielle

It was a thin sliced chicken cutlet that is lightly breaded. It is crispy a juicy. They toppped it with a fresh arugula salda...very good!

[pixie08]

Where: Yachstman steakhouse
credit: 4 table service
Items: 2 sodas,seared Maine Diver scallops, chilled seafood salad, yachstman filet, porterhouse, mushrooms, chocolate study, cheese tray
approx cost including tax (not tip):$144.00
review: A-

After the wonderful meal at Tutto we returned to the BW to work off our meal so that we would be prepared for tonight's dinner at the Yacht Club. Of course it began pouring right before dinner but luckily we did not have far to go!

When we arrived at the Yachtsman we were quickly seated and again like Narcoossee's given anniversary menus. We took a look at the cuts of meat and the desserts on display. The server was such a nice lady and we had wonderful service.

both appetizers were spectacular. The scallops were cooked perfectly and the seafood sald so fresh. I ordered the filet with a red wine sauce and mashed potatoes. While personally I perfer the filets at Jiko and Cali grill over this one , I enjoyed my meal. The filet was buttery soft, cooked perfectly med. The redwine sauce was not overpowering and the potatoes creamy but still resembles the consitency of potato and not some forgein pasty substance:lmao: The mushrooms I could have lived with out. I have had much better at the steakhouses here in NY. To me they were a bit bland and the sauce was slimy- DH liked them though. Dh however did not enjoy his meal and this is why I gave it a grade of A- and not A.

Now I should say that DH and I met many,many years ago working in a steakhouse here in NYC so we are a bit picky when it comes to this. Anyway a steak is as much about the cut of meat as it is being properly cooked. We hate our steaks overdone and like them MR-M. Red in the center but warm not cool or cold which woul be rare. Dh ordered the Porterhouse Med and it came out rare- the thing was cold in the center. I didn't believe him but felt it for myself and sure enough it was basically raw. Anyway he didn't want to send it back because that is just the way he is and so ate anyway and did not enjoy it. I think had he sent it back he would have enjoyed his meal much better but I think this was a error on the kitchen because they shouldn't have put both steaks on at the same time (which is most likely what they did) Dh is a stickler for things like that and very picky. All in all though a very good meal.So lessson if you are not happy with the way the steak comes out imo you should send it back!

I would most likely pick Jiko, CG or FF over it but still very nice ambience and very good service. I would definitely recommend it for steak lovers.Also if you are paying oop I think this is a pretty good deal as most places here in NY are a la carte and so the bill really adds up. I thought it was a great value for the quality of food and service.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D230-3.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D231-3.jpg


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D232-3.jpg

Ignore Mousepotato's silly face:laughing: ...I wanted to show you the elgant mission style interior...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D233-3.jpg

very good bread sreved with butter and a delish spreadable roated garlic..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D234-3.jpg


Amazing scallops..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D235-3.jpg

filet..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D236-3.jpg

Porterhouse (dh substituted mash for the fingerlings)
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D239-3.jpg

shrooms
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D237-3.jpg

cheese tray..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D240-3.jpg

one of the best choc desserts anywhere..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D241-3.jpg

A nice gift from our server..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D353-2.jpg

Oh yes and after all of that DH still got a funnel cake at Tasty Sensations on the BW. So I got an Italian ice. Funnel cake was good as usual. italian Ice- bleck. Skip it. I am not sure what they served me. It was hab=nd scooped and pre frozen and frost bitten. I should have returned it but ahhh whatever I still ate it lol! It was a hot night and the ice was tempting lol!

Up Next...Jambo! We adventure to Africa and dine at tusker house for lunch and Jiko for dinner.

[pixie08]

Jambo everyone!

Today we are in Animal kingdom and decided to give the new Tusker house a try (I was a die hard fan of the CS). We also decided to keep the feeling going all day and go to dnner at Jiko.

Where: Tusker House Buffet
credit: 2 table service
Items: 2 sodas, and lots o other stuff
approx cost including tax (not tip):$43.50
review: B-

Ok so B- is not a terrible grade but it isn't great. I have heard Tusker referred to as "Boma Light" and I am going to have to agree. I would choose Boma for dinner instead and since this is lunch..well I guess the next best thing. It was not a bad meal but I was in my mind comparing it to Boma since it is so similiar and it did not measure up to me. the service was just s0-so. The tabke was wablly and we were seated very close to another table which was fine but it didn't seem like they put any effort into really converting this place from a CS to a TS. maybe some new furniture? maybe I am just being picky. Lots of offerings though and a large dessert area;)

pixie08 and mousepotato stop their African adventure for some wild grub (ok not so wild but it sounded good:lmao: )...
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D370-1.jpg

Some offerings..
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D382-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D371-1.jpg

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http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D378-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D376-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D384-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D383-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D380-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D379-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D377-1.jpg


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D375-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D373-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D374-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D372-1.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D385-2.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D386-2.jpg

[pixie08]

Where: Jiko
credit: 4 table service
Items: 2 sodas,Seared Ahi Tuna, Kalamata flat bread, 2 Oak fired filets, House made lemon curd, cheese tray, 2 glasses wine
approx cost including tax (not tip):$153.00 ($22 paid oop for wine)
review: A

I just love the Animal Kingdom lodge. The smells, the sounds the atmosphere. So much so when AKV went for sale we bought it even though I was previously not considering DVC:rotfl: Well anyway we headed over to AKL and were a few mins early so what better way to pass some time?


http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D389-3.jpg
Mojitos of course..at victoria Falls. I had the passion fruit (yummmm) DH had an original.


We were seated to dinner promptly. The people at Jiko are always so amazing. I love the host staff- they are always so nice and willing to share their story. the server was a bit stand offish at first but quickly warmed up and the service did not disappoint. The food was amzing and imo not many restaurants on property can rival it with the exception of cali Grill and Victoria & Alberts of course.


Delish bread basket with tandoori butter
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D387-3.jpg

Seared Ahi Tuna with African spices, golden beets, watercress, Zough yogurt and South African sea salt
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D390-3.jpg

kalamata olive and goat cheese flatbread
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D391-3.jpg

oak fired filet mignon with red wine sauce over mac n cheese
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D393-3.jpg

Cheese tray
http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y165/marymerges/first%20anniversary/D395-2.jpg


for dessert I had the House-made Lemon Curd with pomegranate and blueberry compote, white chocolate biscotti and sour cream ice cream. I know it sounds odd but it was so good. refreshing and such subtle flavors. I would say everyone should try to get to Jiko at least once...it is so nice to have something so different but yet so familiar.

Up next- A journey through ECOT, Coral Reef and Flying Fish Cafe

[KatGarcia]

Looks and sounds yummy! I am def considering the deluxe dining plan the next big trip we take so I can do more signature places like Jiko.

[CoolDisneyKitten]

Really enjoying your reviews so far! Thanks for all the great pics. :thumbsup2

[iHEARTflorida]

lovin' your food report, just court up with it all! cant wait for the next installment

[TigerKat]

We LOVE JIKO!!!! DS's favorite meal in all of the world is the filet and mac & cheese. Can't wait for FF review!!!!:yay:

[KAC2005]

Great reviews! :)

[kathneric]

Hi Mary!!!!!!! Happy Anniversary (alittle late)
I LOVE this!!!!!!! I swear I gained 30 lbs just reading about your trip!!! People ask me why I go to disney so much and I always say, "for the food!!" :lmao:
Thanks so much for sharing this!!!!! Me and DH spent all day yesterday discussing this plan for our upcoming trip!!!!! You got me so excited!!!!

[minijeanie]

unbelievable reviews and pictures. What time this must of took you. Happy Anniversary and have to ask...were people looking at you taking all the pictures of the food that was on your plate. ALways wondered about this....

You are so articulate and I can tell genuinely enjoying your posts.

My dh & I went on our honeymoon to WDW...back then it was only MK...can you believe it!!!

[Sarilas]

Your reviews are fantastic and definitely helping me with my upcoming ADR's!

[pixie08]

Thank you everyone!

Kathy- wow I can noyt believe you are about to plan your first anniversary trip...time flies. When are you guys going to go to Disney?

minijeanie- thank you...at first I felt weird taking all the pics but no one even looked twice so eventually i did not mind and snapped away!

[TPCShauna]

Really enjoying your dining review. DH and I are doing DxDP for our anniversary trip this December and we have ressies at a lot of the same places. It seems we even have similar palates. :thumbsup2

I'm looking forward to reading the rest of your review. Happy belated Anniversary!

[jessily]

Really enjoying your reviews and pictures:thumbsup2 I can't wait to eat a Jiko in September!

[MandM-Mom]

Great reviews!:)

[passthepixiedust]

Ooooh! Great reviews! Jiko is on my "gotta try it" list!

[Jenna319]

I am just planning our 1st year anniversary trip for October and your review is getting me so excited!!! I'm subscribing and enjoying every minute of it! =) Happy Anniversary!

[ferretxxxferret]

Great food report so far Mary! ;) All of your pics make the food look so yummy.

I might have to ask you about the private dining later. That looked like such an amazing experience!

What a great b-day present! I wish I could talk mario into getting me a new camera for my birthday!

Looking forward to reading the rest.

[pixie08]

Thank you everyone!

jenifer- Hi! I would be happy to help you and Mario plan something- PM me.

[DisneyJo]

Great reviews so far :goodvibes

[KatGarcia]

Looking FWD to more....

[iluvpluto27]

Loving your reviews. Thanks for all the pics of tusker house, I'm looking forward to trying it. And I love Jiko, I could probably just eat the bread and tandoori butter there and still come away happy.

[ferretxxxferret]

more! more! whenever you are ready....LOL

[emmabemmainc]

Absolutely wonderful reviews! Thank you for taking the time to post them. They are some of the best I've read on here! :thumbsup2

[jeminni]

Wow


I just found your DR its great !!!! I've gotten as far as the private dinner so far, but plan on reading the rest after work. :goodvibes

[Dismix]

Man everything looks great so out of pocket estimate how much did you spend? I think we will go ahead with the deluxe dp also i want to try those resturants. Im drooling and we are not even going until may 2009 lol.

[vcgirl925]

I'm totally LOVING your reviews. You guys ate pretty darn well!

[DisneyDmbNut]

I will stalk you here Mary..since I post on all your pictures

I love the SIZE of your green hydrangeas, I wish mine had been that big..very cool!

Just love your wedding!!

[tkme4ard]

aww no last 2 reviews? :(:(

[wilma-bride]

I am so glad somebody 'bumped' this - awesome reviews :thumbsup2