Alaskans Thawing and Eating 12/03-16/2008 on the DDP

[DodgerMessa]

After Lurking the DIS for about a year I am going to attempt making a food review. I am an addicted Foodie. I will eat anything! My DW is a picky eater but will sometimes taste some of the things I am eating. My DS will eat anything as long as it is Cheese Pizza and Ice Water with lots of Ice. My DW and I were able to beg, plead and bargain with him to try some new things on this trip.
The first night we ate at Raglan Road. This place is GREAT!!! The food was perfect!

We had the Dinner Rolls which were a Bran type dinner Roll with a oil, Guinness and Maple type dip.
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DW had the Serious Sirloin Steak - 10 oz sirloin topped with Irish whiskey glazed, drizzled with fresh basil oil. Served with mashed potatoes and topped with crispy fried onion strings. Well Done (Heathen!). She stated that she really liked it.
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DS had the Crispy Shrimp - Succulent deep fried shrimp served with choice of a side: garden veggies, fresh salad with ranch dressing, mashed potato, or Irish chips. He said that it was good but it wasn't a tummy filler.
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I had a the Short Rib Special. I could not find the description of this dish on any of the online menu's. It was a very tender roasted short rib (touch it with a fork tender) on top of mash potatoes with a touch of horseradish served in its own pot, accompanied by roasted carrots and parsnips. This dish was delicious and had a perfect blending of flavors.
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DW and I had Ger's Bread & Butter Pudding (Sorry no photo. Sweet tooth kicked and lost my mind.). This was an incredible desert that allowed me to dictate the flavor I wanted from it by the use of the 2 sauces provided.

The atmosphere was great! They had a Irish pub band playing and an Irish table dancer. Put this together with the Great food and as many Black & Tans I could drink it was a great first night.

[Wendi2000]

I'm in!!!

How old is your son? My 7-year-old ate a lot of pizza on our last trip... but he likes chocolate milk slightly better than water, water is usually his first choice at home (I don't let him have that much chocolate milk around here, but he gets anything he wants on vacation!)

[DodgerMessa]

We spent our Second Day at Disney Hollywood Studios. It was a Beautiful 75 degree day. It was in the single digits back home. On the way over to the park we saw 2 escapees from Thanksgiving walking through traffic.
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When we went to the Rockin' Roller Coaster we saw Pop Music Star and American Idol Contestant David Archuletta filming a promo for the American Idol Experience. The promo was part of the WDW Christmas Parade taping.
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We ate Counter Service at the Backlot Express. Nothing Special. Wasn't worth photographing.

We decided 6 months ago that we would use 2 Dinner Credits and eat at the Hollywood Brown Derby to Celebrate our 10th Wedding Anniversary and our DS 1st visit. DW and I Honeymooned at WDW.
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The server was aware that it was our Anniversary because it was included in our reservation and we had the Big Disney Buttons on our lanyards. The Server took our pic.
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The Sever brought us Complimentary Champagne.
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She also let us have complimentary Appetizers. DW had the Market Greens Salad with asparagus, tomato grapes, candied pecans, midnight moon goat cheese and cabernet vinaigrette. She said it was excellent. She really liked the candied nuts.
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I had the Blue Jumbo Lump Crab Cake with Potato Crust, green cabbage slaw, dijon mustard and remoulade sauces. The flavor and texture combinations were perfectly matched within each component of this dish.
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My DW had Split Roasted Half Chicken - Served with rice pilaf, almond cranberry polonaise, and maple vinegar sauce. She said she enjoyed it very much and enjoyed the presentation.
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DS had Grilled Breast of Chicken - Served with BBQ sauce, red potatoes, Broccoli and carrots. He ate all except the potatoes. He doesn't like potatoes (Weird).
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I had the Pan Fired Black Grouper - With Provencal vegetables, crispy capers, and citrus juices. Loved it. Perfect Meal!
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We finished off the meal with absolutely Great Deserts. DW had the Grapefruit Cake - Light layers of yellow cake with fresh grapefruit cream cheese icing. She saw this on the Dis and wanted to try it. She was not disappointed. It was light and had just the right amount of Grapefruit flavor.
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I had the Pumpkin Cheesecake, with a pumpkin seed brittle and a carmel sauce. i cannot find this on any of the posted menu's. It was Excellent!
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DS finished off his night with a treat from Goofy's Candy Company. 3 Marshmallows covered in Dark Chocolate, Mini M&M's and sprinkles. He say's it is the best treat ever created in WDW.
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Day 3 Magic Kingdom......

[DodgerMessa]

I'm in!!!

How old is your son? My 7-year-old ate a lot of pizza on our last trip... but he likes chocolate milk slightly better than water, water is usually his first choice at home (I don't let him have that much chocolate milk around here, but he gets anything he wants on vacation!)

DS is 9. He has liked only Ice Water since he was 5 years old. We can't get him to drink anything else and we're good with that. It is just a little different.

[MickeyNicki]

Awesome reviews and pictures, your son is a cutie pie!

DH and I have been kicking around the Brown Derby for our Oct trip and I think you just cemented the deal so thank you!

[DodgerMessa]

Awesome reviews and pictures, your son is a cutie pie!

DH and I have been kicking around the Brown Derby for our Oct trip and I think you just cemented the deal so thank you!

Thanks soo much! We think DS is Cute too.

The Hollywood Brown Derby was an excellent experience and had GREAT service.

[DodgerMessa]

We woke up bright and early to go to Crystal Palace for Breakfast. It was OK. Typical buffet fare. We did the early Breakfast to be able to have DS get easy Character photos and so we could be at the front of the line once.
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We ate lunch at Cosmic Rays. It was great counter service. I could not find a photo. I probably ate it.
DW and I went to O'hana's on our Honeymoon 10 years ago and really liked it so we made sure to go again this time.
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We started the night with the obligatory Lapu Lapu
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Followed it up with a Magical Star Cocktail - X-Fusion Organic Mango and Passion Fruit Liqueur, Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, Pineapple Juice and a glow cube.
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DS Had the Ice Water with Lots of Ice and a Glow Cube
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Had fun with the Glow Cubes
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Forgot to take pictures of the Macadamia Bread, Sticky Wings, Noodles, salad and vegetables. All were good but nothing special. We did really enjoy the proteins coming out on skewers.
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The Ohana bread pudding a la mode with Banana Foster sauce was incredible. My DW and I absolutely loved it!
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My DS really enjoyed his Create your own Sundae.
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Day 4.... Animal Kingdom

[danalee]

DS is a cutie! Cant wait for more reviews!

[SunnieRN]

My goodness your son is adorable! Great review so far, looking forward to more!

[FirstMagic]

We did really enjoy the proteins coming out on skewers.

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Proteins on skewers....such an accurate description! Enjoying your reviews and photos!

[DodgerMessa]

DS is a cutie! Cant wait for more reviews!

Thank You

[DodgerMessa]

My goodness your son is adorable! Great review so far, looking forward to more!

Thank You

[DodgerMessa]

Day 4 brought counter service at Flame Tree BBQ. This and Cosmic Rays are my favorite Counter Service... My DW and I each had 1/2 Slab of St. Louis Ribs served with baked beans and corn muffin. Not the the super finest ribs that I have had in my life but, we really enjoyed them.

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We Decided to go to the Animal Kingdom Resort to eat at Boma.
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They treated us like Royalty. Our drinks were always full, our needs were always checked on and the empty plates always cleared. They gave us a card for our anniversary that was had an anniversary greeting written and signed by staff in their native language.
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Started out the night with a Passion Fruit Mojito (I was just being Passionate) - Bacardi Rum, X-Fusion Mango and Passionfruit Liqueur, Lime, Fresh Mint and topped off with Soda Water.
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Even though the food was buffet style it was different and was presented/documented well. I am sorry I didn't get the food descriptions with the food but it was goooood!!
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We finished the meal with Zebra Domes... I wish I took a picture but, I think the camera would have gotten in the way I would have eaten it.

Day 5 Epcot.

[DodgerMessa]

:lmao: :lmao: :lmao:

Proteins on skewers....such an accurate description! Enjoying your reviews and photos!

I wanted to say meat on a stick.... DW said it didn't sound right.

[skellingtonfreak]

Great start. I can't wait for more! I am so glad I chose Brown Derby for my birthday dinner after seeing more pics and another great review.

[iluvpluto27]

I'm really enjoying your reviews and pics. Looking forward to more.

[suzimar57]

enjoying your reviews and photos!

[DodgerMessa]

Great start. I can't wait for more! I am so glad I chose Brown Derby for my birthday dinner after seeing more pics and another great review.

You won't be sorry with that choice. Make sure you wear a Birthday button and it is listed on your reservation that it is your Birthday.

I'm really enjoying your reviews and pics. Looking forward to more.

Thank You

enjoying your reviews and photos!

Thank You.

[DodgerMessa]

Welcome to our Epcot Day. We started the day with a visit to Club Cool and the customary taste of Beverly and other Coca Cola concoctions.
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and me with the Beverly Look. http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0697.jpg Tastes great at the beginning and gets nasty at the end. Here's a pic of the other selections.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0698.jpg. The overall opinion was the Costa-Rican selection was the best, except for DS who only likes Ice Water.

After visiting several attractions we ate at Sunshine Seasons. We really enjoyed the selection and variety. DW had the Mongolian Ginger Beef, Sweet and Sour Chicken, Udon Noodles and White Rice. She said she would give it a solid "B". DS had the Chicken Leg, Rice Pilaf and Glazed Carrots. He said he really liked it. I had a half a chicken, mash potatoes (Skins on) and green beans. I really enjoyed it.
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This was also the day that DS discovered the Chocolate Covered Ice Cream Mickey. He wore/ate at least one of these everyday from this point forward.
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I had to try the Fiesta Margarita. It was a good flavor combo, but, I think $9.00 is a little expensive. I only had 2.
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With my DW being of Norway ancestry and her relatives fond of Norse Cuisine she had to stop by the Kringla Bakeri og Cafe and have a Cloudberry Horn and have her photo taken for her relatives.
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Next up. Day 5 pt 2. Coral Reef

[DodgerMessa]

DS is a "Fish Nut". He has 3 aquariums and can identify most aquarium fish on sight. Last Summer we went to Colorado and ate at the Aquarium Restaurant. DS was captivated. So when we told DS that Epcot had a similar restaurant, Coral Reef, he begged to go. When we arrived we felt let down by the small aquarium exposure and not being able to get close seating to the aquarium. The food was a "B" average. DS had the usual Cheese Pizza.
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DW had the Grilled Mahi Mahi - served with cashew-jasmine rice topped with a spicy pineapple chutney finished with a malibu rum beurre blanc. She liked it.
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I had a dish of the Specials Menu and I cannot find it on any of the online menus. I was Seared Grouper over a Mushroom Risotto with a citrus sauce. It was a good flavor/texture combination.
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DS had the Create Your Own Sundae.
Before http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0787.jpg Middle http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0789.jpg I didn't take an After picture because that would be gross.

DW had the Creme Brulee. She liked it.
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I had the Baileys and Jack Daniel's Mousse - topped with a ganache and chocolate cigar. I LOVED it!!! Sorry it is sideways. Don't hurt your neck!
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[chocolateMinnie]

great reviews, we chose many of the same restaurants on our last trip. I have a DD who only drinks water too and DS will only drink fresh orange juice or cranberry juice. Better than coke and fizzy drink but................

Well done on drinking the lapu lapu, I love my drinks but it was so strong that one sip nearly killed me.

[DodgerMessa]

great reviews, we chose many of the same restaurants on our last trip. I have a DD who only drinks water too and DS will only drink fresh orange juice or cranberry juice. Better than coke and fizzy drink but................

Well done on drinking the lapu lapu, I love my drinks but it was so strong that one sip nearly killed me.

I am glad DS doesn't do the fizzy or syrup drinks,,,,, it's just different. The Lapu Lapu was great but it does have kick.

[DodgerMessa]

DS started his day with his Goofy Candy Company favorite, the Dark Chocolate covered Marshmallows with sprinkles. I know desert for breakfast:scared1: . It's vacation time, we would not do that otherwise.
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We did lunch at Cosmic Rays. DS did not like any of the DDP eligible Children's offerings so we purchased a hot dog meal for him. DW and I each had the Half Chicken & BBQ Rib Combo - Served with mashed potatoes and a seasonal vegetable. I love this lunch. It was way more than I should have eaten, but I did.
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Later that night we ate at Liberty Tree Tavern which was nothing more than a glorified Thanksgiving TV dinner, served on plates w/ Disney Characters walking around. The Characters were great and DS really enjoyed them. The server we had was busting her tail and was very pleasant/accommodating. We tipped her greater than 20%. The menu was -
Declaration Salad: tossed mixed greens, served with strawberry vinaigrette dressing. Patriot's Platter: roasted turkey breast, carved beef, and smoked pork loin, with mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, herb bread stuffing, and Stouffer's macaroni & cheese. Dessert: Apple Cobbler with Vanilla Ice Cream.
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Next.-- Day 7, Hollywood Studios 2nd time.

[debbieandroo]

Subbing...great reviews and pictures...although I am a little disappointed that I didn't have a chocolate covered marshmallow for breakfast myself!

I'm glad to hear the great reviews of Brown Derby and Raglan Road - I was planning to go to both later this month.

Oh, and not to mention Cosmic Ray's - thanks!

[Krissalee]

Thanks for sharing your reviews - I am enjoying reading them!

[JESW]

Great job! I am enjoying your reviews - keep them coming! :thumbsup2

Jill

[DodgerMessa]

Subbing...great reviews and pictures...although I am a little disappointed that I didn't have a chocolate covered marshmallow for breakfast myself!

I'm glad to hear the great reviews of Brown Derby and Raglan Road - I was planning to go to both later this month.

Oh, and not to mention Cosmic Ray's - thanks!

Thank You

Thanks for sharing your reviews - I am enjoying reading them!

Thank You

Great job! I am enjoying your reviews - keep them coming! :thumbsup2

Jill

Thank You... I will be writing more. I am waiting on a PhotoBucket upload.

[DodgerMessa]

My DS is a SERIOUS Star Wars fan... My DW had researched the Jedi Academy, Thoroughly, and she made sure to do everything in our power to have DS be a part of it. The very first thing we did in the morning was to make sure we could get this shot.
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That being over we caught some attractions and ate at ABC Commissary. Not that good. I had the Cuban Sandwich. It was lunch meat on a bun. DW had the cheeseburger and it was cold and rubbery. DS didn't see anything he liked on the menu and decided not to eat.

DS later ate a Cheese pizza at the Toy Story Pizza Planet. He said it was good.

We all needed a really good dinner meal so we ate at Spoodles. We really enjoyed it. The servers were attentive and the food was very appealing to the eye.
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We started off with appetizers. DW had the Hummus - Freshly Made and Served with Toasted Pita. She didn't think that they would bring as much as they did. It was a big portion.
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I had the Crispy Fried Calamari - with Olive-Pepperoncini Relish. I enjoyed this appetizer. It is not the typical Calamari appetizer. The rings had a different breading than the tentacles and relish was a perfect compliment.
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On top of that, Spoodles brings Focaccia Bread w/ olive oil, garlic, herb and balsamic dip breadbasket. This was fabulous.
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Entrees included for DW, Lemon-Garlic Shrimp Linguine - with Preserved Lemons, Italian Parsley, Shaved Garlic and Butter. She liked it.
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DS had the Cheese Pizza. Surprised?
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I had the Oak-fired Steak Kabobs - with Multigrain Pilaf, Balsamic Red Onions and Harissa. I liked the Harissa on the Kabobs. I was a nice flavor meld with the oak fired flavor.
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On to Desert. DS had the build your own Sundae. Surprised? WDW needs to do something with the DDP child eligible deserts.
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DW had the Lemon Pound Cake - with Limoncello Glaze and Zabaglione Gelato.SHe really enjoyed it.
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I had the Chocolate Financier Cake - Rich Dark Chocolate Cake with crunchy Hazelnuts served with Mocha Gelato and Port Cassis Glaze. YUM! I liked that it was not a super-sweet, syrupy chocolate desert. The flavors of the accompaniments to the cake could be tasted along with the cake and it was a great desert experience.
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Next Day 8 and LeCellier.

[PrincessMom1]

I'm in! popcorn:: Great pics. Thanks for sharing. I'm interested to hear about LeCellier. It's on my list for our April trip.

[SunnieRN]

More fantastic pictures and reviews! Thank you! Love your sons smile as he is holding his first choc. covered mickey bar! Looking forward to more.

[TigerKat]

Just found this! Glad to see another good review of Spoodles.:thumbsup2

[DodgerMessa]

I'm in! popcorn:: Great pics. Thanks for sharing. I'm interested to hear about LeCellier. It's on my list for our April trip.

Le Cellier is coming up next. Thanks for viewing.

More fantastic pictures and reviews! Thank you! Love your sons smile as he is holding his first choc. covered mickey bar! Looking forward to more.

DW takes all the pictures. I just ask. DS wore/ate many of those Mickey bars all with a great big smile.

Just found this! Glad to see another good review of Spoodles.:thumbsup2

Spoodles was good...

[DodgerMessa]

This started as a very wet day... We Alaskans, believing that we were impervious to all weather that Florida could throw at us, started the day with a light shell and shorts. We quickly found out that when it rains at WDW it flat gets with it! It was about 55 degrees out with winds blowing at about 10mph and rain coming down with the tenderness of a firehouse turned on full blast. We had to opt for the incredibly fashionable Disney Rain Poncho as we got incredibly wet and needed something to keep us from getting beyond wet.
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We ducked into the Yakitori House. DW had the Teriyaki Chicken - Chicken thigh served with teriyaki sauce and steamed rice. She said it was OK for fast food and filled her up for the moment. (Sorry no pic.) DS had the Teriyaki chicken with mixed veggies, steamed rice. He reluctantly ate it. It wasn't Cheese Pizza.
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I had the Kaki-Age Udon - Vegetable tempura with shrimp, and udon noodles served in a clear broth with green onions. This hit the spot! I wish I took a pic.

The rain tapered off and we shopped the Japan pavilion. When we came out the Rice Paste lady (I know that isn't her name but I couldn't find her name, easily) was out. She is Amazing. I wish I would have video'd her. Incredible!
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The skies cleared and we were able to take of the highly fashionable WDW rain panchos. It was warm enough that I had to get a Drink. In the France Pavilion area I got a Grey Goose Citron Lemonade Slush. It was good but for $9.00 you would think they would use a bigger glass. I guess that is tourist pricing.
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Next stop in the France pavilion was Boulangerie Patisserie. My DW wanted a Napoleon. She said it was sooooooo good! The picture does it absolutely no Justice.
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Next Up, LeCellier.

[DodgerMessa]

This was a hard ADR to get even at 180 day +10 and in the off season. It was incredibly worth it!
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The night started with DS meeting the Canadian Santa Clause (They have a different lore/name for him, sorry can't remember it at this time.).
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DS located the hidden Mickey in the wine rack.
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We were seated reasonably quick. On the way in I saw what I had to have. Unfortunately it was on someone else's plate (The Steak). The server brought us the bread stick basket. It was a good variety but the most popular was the pretzel bread.
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The server recommended the Le Cellier Caesar - A Canadian favourite featuring Iceberg vodka, Clamato juice, and a blend of seasonings. It tasted like a fancy Bloody Mary. I liked it.
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DW had Mixed Field Greens - Served with crumbled blue cheese and white balsamic vinaigrette. She said she would give it an "A".
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I had the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup - Made with Moosehead Beer and Smoked Bacon. It was really good. All the hype on the Dis is correct. A definite must.
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DW and I both had the New York Strip Steak - with bercy butter, balsamic red onions, watercress, and roasted Yukon potatoes. Although my wife had hers Well Done (Barbarian'ette!). I usually want to order the "different" things on the menu but when I saw this on a plate, when I walked in, I had to have it. It was GREAT! The flavors on the plate matched perfectly. The picture of this does it no Justice.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1122.jpg

DS had,,,,,,you guessed it. Cheese Pizza. I will let your imagination fill in the details.

Dessert (DW just informed me that Dessert is spelled with 2 "s" 's, oops) was fantastic! DW had 2 Desserts. She had the Chocolate "Moose" - Chocolate Mousse rolled in Toasted Chocolate Crumbs with Maple Leaf Antlers. We both have wanted this since the first time we saw it on the Dis. It did not disappoint.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1128.jpg

DW's 2nd Dessert was the Campfire S’mores - Chocolate Graham Crackers and Roasted Marshmallows with Vanilla Ice Cream. She shared it w/ DS. They both enjoyed it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1127.jpg

DS had the, you guessed it, build your own Sundae.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1123.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1129.jpg

I had the Chocolate-on-Chocolate Whiskey Cake - Chocolate cake brushed with Canadian whiskey, layered with chocolate mousse, and finished with honey thyme anglaise. An excellent selection. Perfect flavor combination.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1126.jpg

Next,,,,,Jiko.

[lichevyguy]

looks like you enjoyed all your eats , thanks for sharing , p.s. your son is no diferent from my own , pizza every day , cute:woohoo:

[debbieandroo]

Two desserts? Your DW is a woman after my own heart! I'd go restaurant hopping with her anytime....

Keep up the good work - sadly, I had to give up my Le Cellier ADR this upcoming trip but there's always next time!

[DodgerMessa]

looks like you enjoyed all your eats , thanks for sharing , p.s. your son is no diferent from my own , pizza every day , cute:woohoo:

Loved most of my eats..... I hope my son moves beyond a small selection of food. Don't get me wrong, he eats much more healthy than me and in todays heavier society I hope he stays "healthy" slim, but he is missing a lot of wonderful flavors and taste experiences.

P.S.: Nice '67 Camero in your signature. Did you restore it?

Two desserts? Your DW is a woman after my own heart! I'd go restaurant hopping with her anytime....

Keep up the good work - sadly, I had to give up my Le Cellier ADR this upcoming trip but there's always next time!

I hope you get to go to LeCellier... It was a Great Culinary experience. My wife saw those 2 deserts on the Dis and had to try them both. I needed the photo's for my Culinary students.

Thanks for viewing my posts.

[DodgerMessa]

We slept in this morning. DS had to finish homework and stayed up late last night. We went to DTD to eat at Earl of Sandwich to eat lunch. DS had the children's pizza sandwich (what did you expect?).
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1142.jpg

DW had the Thanksgiving Special. It had Turkey, Cranberries, Stuffing, Gravy and Herb Mayo. She said "it was FABULOUS,,, I would eat it over and over and over again."
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1143.jpg

I had the The Full Montagu - roast beef and turkey with cheddar and Swiss cheese, romaine lettuce, tomato and Earl's mustard. It was really good.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1141.jpg

We went to Animal Kingdom and enjoyed Expedition Everest and my DW enjoyed buying out all of the Gift Shops.

We went to Jiko for Dinner. It was a great culinary experience but a poor service and atmosphere experience. We were seated in a high traffic corner that was cramped. The food was good but we don't think it was at a level that it should be listed as a Signature Level restaurant. We started the night w/ appetizers. DW had Curried Samosas - Crispy Pockets with Potato, Sweet Corn, and Peach Chutney. She liked them.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1220.jpg

I had Fire-Roasted Mussels - Served with lamb merguez, sweet potatoes, and spiced tomato broth. I really enjoyed it. The flavors blended very well.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1221.jpg

What was really shocking:scared1: was DS was intrigued and wanted to try the dish. He ate close to half of the dish.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1222.jpg

DS had the Pizza - Tomato and Cheese pizza. He of course liked it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1226.jpg

DW and I had the same Entree. Kenyan Coffee Barbecue Beef Short Ribs - Served with crushed potatoes and onion garlic sauce. It was really good. The meat was incredibly tender.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1225.jpg

Desert started w/ DS having the (What else?) Create your own Puzzle Sundae.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1230.jpg

DW had Pistachio Creme Brulee - With a Chocolate Layered Bottom. She enjoyed the chocolate layer under the Creme'
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1228.jpg

I had the House-Made Meyer Lemon Curd - Served with pomegranate and blueberry compote, white chocolate biscotti, and sour cream ice cream. This was a great Dessert. Each portion had a great individual flavor and blended well with all of the other flavors.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1229.jpg

[Poppinsme]

Loving your reviews! We just loved the Earl of Sandwich also.;)
Wish I had one now.:lovestruc

[DodgerMessa]

Loving your reviews! We just loved the Earl of Sandwich also.;)
Wish I had one now.:lovestruc

DW thinks EoS is the greatest place on the planet. She has already located one for our Las Vegas trip.! All of the quality Culinary experiences in Vegas and she is mapping out EoS,,:confused3 hmmm.

[onelilspark]

Bummed that you had bad service at Jiko. One of the reasons I love it is that the service is usually top notch (I've never been there where I've had bad service.)

Glad the food was good though :)

[WAHMto5]

Great reviews, thanks for sharing!!

[DodgerMessa]

Bummed that you had bad service at Jiko. One of the reasons I love it is that the service is usually top notch (I've never been there where I've had bad service.)

Glad the food was good though :)

The server was very slow, as well as distracted and the table location was the worst place to put a table. If I can convince DW to go again I would like to go because of all the other reviews I have read.

Great reviews, thanks for sharing!!

Your Welcome. Thanks for viewing.

[TigerKat]

It's a shame you had bad service at JIKO. We had the best server ever at a WDW restaurant at JIKO which made the experience all that more amazing.:goodvibes

[DodgerMessa]

The next 2 days we spent at Kennedy Space Center (KSC). DS is a HUGE space fanatic. He watches everything concerning space and many times his teachers tell us how blown away they are at his space knowledge.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1250.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1397.jpg
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1293.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1295.jpg

Every morning before we drove to KSC we stopped by Port Orleans French Quarter food court and ate/wore Beignets. We loved them. I have never been to New Orleans, so I have no point of reference, but these were GREAT!
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1234.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1379.jpg

One of the KSC nights we ate at California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) at the Mall at Millenia (DW had to do some Non-Gift Shop shopping). DS LOVES CPK when we go to his DGrandma's in California every year so he wanted to eat a CPK in Florida. The service was terrible. I think it was due to the servers inexperience in the food service industry. He was overwhelmed with few occupied tables. DS had his usual. Can you guess what it was????
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1378.jpg

The second day we were at KSC we did the Lunch with an Astronaut package. DS's favorite Astronaut, Story Musgrave, was the featured guest It was a really good lunch, served buffet style and well worth the price. Sorry I did not take any pictures. Afterwards we went to Cocoa Beach to stick our toes in the Atlantic Ocean and collect sea shells.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1425.jpg

That night we went to Goofy's Candy Company and DS/DW had their usual Marshmallow thing and I had my usual "Best Snack Known to Earth" the Mickey Rice Krispie Treat, Smothered in Dark Chocolate, Dipped in Oreo's and Crushed Pecans. Can't get any better than that.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1454.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1453.jpg

Next up.... Park Scramble,,,,, Kona Cafe.

[DodgerMessa]

It's a shame you had bad service at JIKO. We had the best server ever at a WDW restaurant at JIKO which made the experience all that more amazing.:goodvibes

Maybe it will be better next time:confused3 . I hope my DW will let me us go again.

[DodgerMessa]

This was our last day in the parks :sad2: . The next day we went from 84 Degrees to -6 degrees:scared:

The day started with a trip to POFQ for Beignets. Yum!
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1234.jpg

We moved on to EPCOT and ate at Sommerfest. DS had a Frankfurter (You thought I was gonna say Cheese pizza.). Sorry no Picture. DS also had a Pretzel it would have tasted better with a Beer but, that would be irresponsible parenting.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1488.jpg

DW had a Apple Strudel. She said it was Wunderbar! Almost as good as when she went to Munich.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1487.jpg

After seeing the pictures on the Dis I had to stop by the Japan Pavilion and have the Kaki Gori - Shaved ice topped with fruit syrups: strawberry, honeydew melon, tangerine. It was like Hawaiian shave ice with different flavors. I liked it. DS wasn't sure if he liked it..
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1502.jpg

Next we went to the Tangierine Cafe. I had the Shawarma Chicken and Lamb Platter - Served with side of hummus, Tabouleh and a Tangierine Couscous salad with fresh Morrocan bread. It was good but Fast Foodish. I also had the Baklava. I was very disappointed in the Baklava. It was not fresh and had a stale texture.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1507.jpg

The dessert case looked really good at the Tangierine Cafe so DW took pictures.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1504.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1505.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1506.jpg

That night we ate at Kona Cafe... We absolutely Loved this place!
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We started with the Kona Bread and Sticky Wings- Glazed chicken wings with a tangy mustard drizzle and toasted sesame seeds. Yummy!
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1537.jpg

DS had Grilled Fish of the Day - Served with whole-grain pilaf and veggies. Fooled you!! You thought it was going to be Cheese Pizza. The fish was Tuna. He didn't eat a lot of it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1540.jpg

DW had the Teriyaki-style New York Strip - sirloin strip grilled with pineapple teriyaki glaze served with mashed Yukon gold potatoes and stir-fried broccolini. She said she really enjoyed it and it had good flavors.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1538.jpg

I had the Tuna Oscar - served with fried green tomatoes, tempura-fried jumbo lump crab, and wasabi hollandaise. I absolutely loved this! Perfect textures and flavor combinations.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1539.jpg

The Server Surprised us with a complimentary Anniversary Dessert. It was a Cream Puff- with whipped cream and sprinkles. We enjoyed it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1541.jpg

DS had the Create Your Own Sundae.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1542.jpg http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1544.jpg

DW and I each had the Banana-Chocolate Creme Brulee. This was Dessert Perfection! Presentation, textures, layering of flavors, all present and out of this world!!!
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN1543.jpg

With deep hunger this brings this Trip Dining Review to a close. I hope you enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed savoring each meal.

[SunnieRN]

Absolutely fantastic, thank you so much for taking the time to do your reviews!

[Jenvenza]

DS is a "Fish Nut". He has 3 aquariums and can identify most aquarium fish on sight. Last Summer we went to Colorado and ate at the Aquarium Restaurant. DS was captivated. So when we told DS that Epcot had a similar restaurant, Coral Reef, he begged to go. When we arrived we felt let down by the small aquarium exposure and not being able to get close seating to the aquarium. The food was a "B" average. DS had the usual Cheese Pizza.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0783.jpg

DW had the Grilled Mahi Mahi - served with cashew-jasmine rice topped with a spicy pineapple chutney finished with a malibu rum beurre blanc. She liked it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0780.jpg

I had a dish of the Specials Menu and I cannot find it on any of the online menus. I was Seared Grouper over a Mushroom Risotto with a citrus sauce. It was a good flavor/texture combination.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0781.jpg

DS had the Create Your Own Sundae.
Before http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0787.jpg Middle http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0789.jpg I didn't take an After picture because that would be gross.

DW had the Creme Brulee. She liked it.
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0784.jpg

I had the Baileys and Jack Daniel's Mousse - topped with a ganache and chocolate cigar. I LOVED it!!! Sorry it is sideways. Don't hurt your neck!
http://i546.photobucket.com/albums/hh440/DodgerMessa/DSCN0786.jpg


DH and I had the exact same entree and dessert you did at Coral Reef in September. I loved the Mahi and the Grouper was fantastic, too. And you can't go wrong with the desserts!! Great reviews!!

[TigerKat]

Thanks for taking the time to share your reviews with us!

[DodgerMessa]

Absolutely fantastic, thank you so much for taking the time to do your reviews!

Thank You for reading them. It was a pleasure.

DH and I had the exact same entree and dessert you did at Coral Reef in September. I loved the Mahi and the Grouper was fantastic, too. And you can't go wrong with the desserts!! Great reviews!!

Way cool. Thank You.

Thanks for taking the time to share your reviews with us!

Thank you for viewing them....

[iluvpluto27]

Thanks for writing your reviews, I've really enjoyed them.

[ugadog68]

Good Job... Enjoyed your review:thumbsup2

I hope to do my first one next month

[onelilspark]

I'm so excited about Kona! We're eating there on my birthday :)

Question: was the hollandaise on the tuna real spicy? I don't like spicy, but I make a wasabi aoli that has flavor, but isn't spicy. I get nervous with the word "wasabi" in anything!

[momofdbsdc]

Awesome reviews! Thanks for sharing!!!!

[Pooh's-Honey-Pot]

Great reviews, thanks!

[Krissalee]

Fantastic reviews - thanks so much for taking the time to post them!

[DodgerMessa]

Thanks for writing your reviews, I've really enjoyed them.

Thank You for reading them.

Good Job... Enjoyed your review:thumbsup2

I hope to do my first one next month

Since the first time I saw the reviews on the Dis. I always wanted to do one and I really enjoyed this experience. Have fun doing yours and I look forward to reading yours.

I'm so excited about Kona! We're eating there on my birthday :)

Question: was the hollandaise on the tuna real spicy? I don't like spicy, but I make a wasabi aoli that has flavor, but isn't spicy. I get nervous with the word "wasabi" in anything!

I am the wrong person to ask about spicy. I look at each thing in food as a flavor characteristic and I am more focused on how flavors work within the dish. I enjoyed the flavors within that dish. IMO there was no set your mouth on fire and melt your sinuses spiciness to the Hollandaise. The wasabi was a background flavor.

Awesome reviews! Thanks for sharing!!!!

Thanks for viewing.

Great reviews, thanks!

Thank You

Fantastic reviews - thanks so much for taking the time to post them!

Thanks for taking the time to read them.

[JESW]

Thanks for all the great reviews! I like your style - to the point with great pictures. :thumbsup2

Jill

[DodgerMessa]

Thanks for all the great reviews! I like your style - to the point with great pictures. :thumbsup2

Jill

Thanks so much..... My DW will be doing the TR so the writing may be a little different.

[kbeverina]

Loved your reviews--thanks so much for posting them!

[DodgerMessa]

Loved your reviews--thanks so much for posting them!

Thank You for viewing them.

[Shell0616]

I just loved you reviews! They were really funny and entertaining. It looks like you guys had a lot of fun. You DS reminded me of our first couple of trips to WDW. All my son would eat was pizza, burgers and chicken nuggets. I was so happy when he finally started eating other foods.

Thanks!:goodvibes

[DWFan4Life]

All of you pics are awesome. I really love it. It makes me hungry at this moment and also your son is handsome. Looking forward for some of your reviews. :)

[DodgerMessa]

I just loved you reviews! They were really funny and entertaining. It looks like you guys had a lot of fun. You DS reminded me of our first couple of trips to WDW. All my son would eat was pizza, burgers and chicken nuggets. I was so happy when he finally started eating other foods.

Thanks!:goodvibes

We had a BLAST!!! I will be very happy when my son starts to expand his culinary horizons. I just hope he doesn't eat in the quantity I do. Thanks for viewing my posts.

All of you pics are awesome. I really love it. It makes me hungry at this moment and also your son is handsome. Looking forward for some of your reviews. :)

My DW has started working on our TR. I will post the link here when she gets it together. I get very hungry just thinking of this last trip and can't wait to return. Thanks for viewing my posts.