I can't believe I ate it all 7day DXDP Reviews-COMPLETE 5-2 QSR&Aloha Dinner Show

[ChefMickey123]

Dining Reviews Complete



Introduction:

As this is my first dining review, I feel it fair and necessary to give a little background information on myself. I am currently winding down an 18 year career in professional foodservice. I have a Bachelor’s Degree from the Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park NY. I am a big guy who likes to eat a lot, and who doesn’t mind blowing big bucks for good food, drink, and service (I was on the Deluxe Dining Plan this trip). Currently, I am the Executive Chef/F&B director of a boutique resort in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

I believe in tipping wait staff, bartenders, doormen (and doorwomen), maitre d’s, drivers, and anyone else in the service industry well. I consider it part of the cost of going out, and will not go out if I cannot afford to tip well.
Your opinions may differ than mine on this and other matters.


Some other things about my dining habits…I have a single food allergy-it is Salmon/Trout. I just don’t order these items. It would kill me to ask a fellow chef to change his/her dish on my behalf. If I can’t have, or don’t want something on the menu that the chef has paired with my selection, I order something else entirely. I realize this is not the way the majority feels, but it is the perspective from which all of these dining reviews will be written. So, if you are looking to see how well a restaurant might handle your special request, I cannot help you.


Also, there will be few reviews in this report about counter service or children’s meals as there were not too many, and those listed will be brief and without photos.

Reviews complete:

Yachtsman Steakhouse Dinner-see below in this post
Chefs de France-Lunch, Post #22
Jiko, "The Cooking Place-Dinner, Post #78
Yak & Yeti Sit Down Lunch, Post #123
Adventures on Planet Hollywood Dinner DTD #169
Grand Floridian Cafe Breakfast #170
California Grille Dinner & Sushi #180
Hollywood Brown Derby#196
Citricos Dinner#`198
Le Cellier Lunch #210
Flame Tree BBQ-Lunch #216
Cosmic Rays Pre-Wishes Snack #216
Port Orleans Riverside Food Court Pizza and Cinnamon Rolls #216
Spirit of Aloha Luau Dinner #216




So, if you have made it this far, I am pleased to present my review of Dinner at the Yachtsman Steakhouse…
Yachtsman Steak House, Yacht Club Resort, Walt Disney World
April 19, 2009


I arrived at the Yacht Club resort by taxi, and was greeted warmly by a CM, who gave me directions to the Steakhouse. I got lost, but another CM showed me the way. I was greeted warmly at the host podium as I gave
my name.

I was given Family Reunion buttons with the Incredibles on them for my family’s use later in the week. I then was given the option to wait in the bar or on a bench for my table. I opted for the bar. The dim lighting and wooden furnishings was cooling and soothing. The bartenders were friendly. I perused the cocktail menu and decided on the Magic Star Cocktail. This blend of tropical rums and fruit juices was as delicious as it was visually appealing, as the multi-color glowing ice cube’s light played off the ice in the glass.
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I was actually seated in the nautically airy dining room 15 minutes earlier than my reservation, so I ended up taking my second Magic Star to the table with me. It disappeared “magically” and in short order, as my server, approached with the menu and wine list.

While waiting for my meal, my server brought out some delicious bread. There were garlic rolls, and sourdough rolls, served with chilled butter and Hawaiian red sea salt.
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(It should be noted that all butter I received at WDW was well-chilled, and not soft when served. The bread was always warm to hot, which made up for the cold butter, which I am sure is a company-wide health and storage consideration. Also, in about 75% of the dining establishments in which I had table service, salt and pepper is on request only. I never needed to request it.)

I selected the Seared Sea Scallops with White Diamond Cheddar Risotto for my appetizer. It was fantastic. The fresh scallops were cooked to a perfected medium-rare, and the risotto was the perfect foil for their sea-sweetness. Some thin-cut steamed squash and carrots cleansed the palate in between bites of seafood and rice, while a luscious herb-butter sauce drizzled artfully about the plate elevated the dish to perfection.
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This was a well-thought, well-balanced, and well-executed dish. It was well gone from my plate.

For my main course, I selected the Porterhouse with compound butter, medium rare with house-cut fries. It was also served with a small portion of micro-greens and caramelized shallots. All was excellent. The steak was cooked and seasoned perfectly--Meaning that they actually put salt and pepper on the steak in such an amount that it enhanced the steak nicely, without being over powering.


I nearly picked up the steak bones and gnawed on them, but I thought that undignified. The fries were also gone, as well as the shallot microgreens. The suggested glass of Bordeaux I ordered with the steak disappeared as well.

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I opted for vanilla crème brulée and coffee for dessert.

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The crème brulée was luscious, and the berries with it provided a great contrast to the richness of the custard and its crunchy caramel topping. Even the coffee was good.
The service throughout the evening was impeccable. I needed not to ask for anything, but it was there when I wanted it.
The non DXDP portion of my bill was about $34 for two cocktails and the wine. $69 was the DXDP portion(2 credits), and I tipped the suggested 20% for both tickets. So, yes it is a pricey place, but you more than get what you pay for. I will return someday. 5 out of 5 if you are keeping score.


Tune in next time when I review Lunch for 2 at Chefs de France, Epcot.

[tluvstink]

I love your review:cool1: I can't wait to read the rest.

Terri

[ChefMickey123]

I love your review:cool1: I can't wait to read the rest.

Terri

Thanks Terri-I can't believe I'm home, but it was a great trip:)

[disneyfan61]

I'm in. Great review.:thumbsup2

[oybolshoi]

Loved the Yachtsman review ... it's on our shortlist for this fall and reading about it from the perspective of someone in the industry makes me even more inclined to make an ADR. I'm looking forward to reading more. :goodvibes

[scanne]

Great review! I enjoyed the pictures as well. I'm hooked on this one!

[hill6]

Great review so far. We are eating in the Steakhouse for our first dinner. We also have a few of the same reservations so I can't wait to read your reviews before we go.

[wdwfanatic316]

Terrific start- can't wait for more! :thumbsup2

[svalencia1]

I'm in! Great review of the Yachtsman. This is one place that I have been back and forth on. It should interesting reading the comments from someone with your background! :)

[engle]

Love you!!! I mean, love it!!! No seriously, you are killing me so far!!! Can't wait for the rest. You and I see eye to eye on food and wine. And I would have gnawed the bones.

[Tbelle1976]

Your first review was great and I cannot wait to read more.

It's so nice to know that there are still people out there who believe that if you cannot afford to eat and tip properly, to find somewhere else to eat where you can afford to. Also, I completely agree with you about ordering dishes the way they are prepared and by the restaurant recipe, without all sorts of modifications.

[kimgof]

Wow! Sounds like I'm in for some great reviews. popcorn::

[jessrose18]

sign me up!!

[NuttyDisneyMom]

I'm inpopcorn::

[frdeb1999]

Great start!! Loved the pics and details! :)

[eag119]

I'm in for this one. Great first review.

[OllieDannyandMe]

Excellent Review! Thank you so much for sharing the exact kind of information that I need. Can't wait to read your other reviews! :yay:

[mygreyglamour]

You had me at Scallops, I'm subscribed.

[ChefMickey123]

I'm in. Great review.:thumbsup2

Loved the Yachtsman review ... it's on our shortlist for this fall and reading about it from the perspective of someone in the industry makes me even more inclined to make an ADR. I'm looking forward to reading more. :goodvibes

Great review! I enjoyed the pictures as well. I'm hooked on this one!

Great review so far. We are eating in the Steakhouse for our first dinner. We also have a few of the same reservations so I can't wait to read your reviews before we go.

Terrific start- can't wait for more! :thumbsup2

I'm in! Great review of the Yachtsman. This is one place that I have been back and forth on. It should interesting reading the comments from someone with your background! :)

Love you!!! I mean, love it!!! No seriously, you are killing me so far!!! Can't wait for the rest. You and I see eye to eye on food and wine. And I would have gnawed the bones.

Your first review was great and I cannot wait to read more.

It's so nice to know that there are still people out there who believe that if you cannot afford to eat and tip properly, to find somewhere else to eat where you can afford to. Also, I completely agree with you about ordering dishes the way they are prepared and by the restaurant recipe, without all sorts of modifications.

Wow! Sounds like I'm in for some great reviews. popcorn::

sign me up!!

I'm inpopcorn::

Great start!! Loved the pics and details! :)

I'm in for this one. Great first review.

Excellent Review! Thank you so much for sharing the exact kind of information that I need. Can't wait to read your other reviews! :yay:

You had me at Scallops, I'm subscribed.

Thank you everyone for your kind comments, and for subscribing. It means a lot when you take a few seconds to drop me a line. I am going to try and do one review a day until they are all done. Chefs de France lunch should be up within the next 30 minutes.:)

[MickeyNicki]

WOW what a lineup! I am so ready for the rest of your reviews, especially Jiko and Cali Grill!

[Smiling Cheshire Cat]

You are living my dream getting to eat at all those wonderful restaurants.

I loved your review and pics of the Yachtsman. Great information and details. I almost feel like I was there with you except my stomach is growling right now.

Can't wait for more.:banana:

[ChefMickey123]

Chefs de France Lunch Review
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On Monday, April 20, 2009, my Mother and I went to EPCOT for the day. Mom likes French Restaurants, so Chefs de France was a natural choice. We had 11:30am reservations, and checked in with the Host, Morgann at about 11:15am. Morgann seemed as if he was getting a little testy with the American tourists without reservations who were upset with him, because they had to wait a little bit for a table. They finally let it go, and Mom and I waited for our name to be called.
Seating was a very efficient process. There were about twenty parties waiting to be seated when the restaurant opened. The restaurant manager had all of his wait staff lined up at the door, and all, including the no-reservations American tourists were seated in very short order.


Our server was a polite young man from Monaco who had been in the U.S. for about two months. His English was way better than my French ever was. He patiently explained the Deluxe Dining Plan entitlements to me, and understood that I would be paying cash for my mother’s meal, as she was a Day Guest. (Day Guest-Disneyism describing a park guest not staying at a Disney Resort)

Mom and I both ordered water for our initial beverages. When our server took the order, I ordered the suggested Burgundy with my entrée-which were Braised Beef Short Ribs.


For appetizers, I had the Escargots (snails), and Mom had the French Onion Soup. Mom selected the Smoked Chicken and Roasted Pepper Crêpe.
Our appetizers arrived quickly, and very hot. It is my guess, since the menu is limited, that the chef is probably able to guess in proportion to the amount of reservations exactly what will be sold in a day, and to have the appetizers close to ready when the guests begin to arrive.

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While waiting for our appetizers, we were each served two piping hot small baguette rolls with a gold-foil wrapped butter pat-ice cold, as is the norm for Disney restaurant butter.

My Escargots were served in the traditional manner with nut and herb butter in a special Escargots dish. Usually, I am a garlic and parsley guy when it comes to snail butter. There were other herbs with the parsley and butter, making it more of an Herbes de Provence blend. While very pleasant, this change did catch me a little off-guard with the first bite. The snails were tender, without any trace of bitterness. In recent years, snails have become available to restaurants commercially, individually flash frozen, which I prefer over the can. I could be wrong, but these seemed to be the flash frozen kind.

Mom’s French onion soup was a huge, piping hot, delicious portion with just the right amount of cheese and crouton.

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Our entrées arrived soon after finishing the appetizers. My Boneless Braised Beef Short Ribs were a take-off of the classic Beef Burgundy. The meal portion was ample, tender, and tasty. The rib meat was sprinkled with button mushrooms, chives, and perfectly cooked pearl onions. On the side was a generous portion of buttered fettucine pasta, which was excellent.

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Mom’s crêpe could be described as one thing-huge. The crêpe was filled with plenty of chicken breast meat and roasted peppers, and was very good. The crêpe itself was toasted on the outside from the cooking process. Mom said the field greens which came with the dish were dressed perfectly with a light vinaigrette.
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During dinner, Audio-animatronic Ratatouille Rodent came to visit us, and neighboring tables. It was a pleasant distraction, and done tastefully.

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After the main courses, Mom was too full for dessert. I ordered the Vanilla Ice cream stuffed Profiteroles with Chocolate Sauce. They were sprinkled with coconut as well, adding another pleasant dimension to the dish. I had coffee with dessert as well, and both were very good.

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The bill for my wine and Mom’s lunch came to about $38. The Deluxe Dining Plan portion was about $42, and one dining credit was deducted from my bill-a great value. I tipped the waiter too much, because he was really good. He thanked me profusely on the way out.

So, to rate the dining experience-first some notes: Yes, this is a French restaurant. That means good, solid, fresh food. However, it is a café, and should be viewed as such. If you want very fancy china and silverware, blow-your-mind plate presentations, in an intimate setting, this place is not for you-try the Bistro upstairs, or Victoria and Albert’s at the Grand Floridian. If your want a delicious, filling, eye-appealing meal of food regular French people actually eat, served efficiently by friendly staff, with great people watching (most of the restaurant has glass walls) then go to Chefs de France.

Chef ‘s de France gets 4.5 out of 5 for me because the china was showing some wear and tear, and Morgann the host was flustered as negatives. I’d go back for lunch today if I had one of those fancy private jets.

[luckytobeme88]

At first look, I thought this is just another trip report, Boy, I couldn't be more wrong. Love your style and philosophy of eating in WDW. You rock! :worship:

[ChefMickey123]

WOW what a lineup! I am so ready for the rest of your reviews, especially Jiko and Cali Grill!


Hey, my mom lives in Naples. She drove up to Disney to see me.

Jiko is the next review on the list!

[binkytell]

oh im so signing up for this, my mouth is waterin,
wish i had scratch n sniff computer screen!!

[kelleigh1]

My mouth was watering with Yachtsman and started right up again with Chefs de France, two places we've yet to try. While the pictures are great, your descriptions are the real cause. Excellent report! I look forward to reading more.

[Tbelle1976]

Sounds great!

Can't wait to eat there in September, yum!

[Heidict]

Lovin it so far and can't wait for the other reviews. You have such a great writing style and your knowledge helps add even more to the reviews.

Only thing...........where's the picture of the steak!!! I was soooo looking forward to seeing that. :rotfl:

Not sure about having the rat visit during the meal though. ;) Of course, that could be because I have a phobia of rats. :confused3

[Katy Belle]

Sounds great! You keep writing, I'll keep reading!

Katy

[2manypets]

You've got a way of pulling me into your dining experience. I think I can actual taste the food by your descriptions. Nice! :thumbsup2

[MickeyNicki]

Hey, my mom lives in Naples. She drove up to Disney to see me.

Jiko is the next review on the list!

I thought she looked familiar! :lmao:

You are doing a fantastic job on pics and reviews! Makes my can of Slim Fast look so pathetic ha ha

[reginacpa]

I just made an ADR for May 20th at Chefs de France....I lived in Paris for several months and MISS the French dining experience. I can't wait to go now and am sure my DH and DD will be happy also. I love your reviews.
:yay:

[wishspirit]

Subscribing! You are making my mouth water!

That crepe looks really good! I wish I had more than bland spaghetti bolognase for dinner! :rotfl:

[skellingtonfreak]

Great reviews! it is always cool hearing what someone in the industry has to say about food. Thanks!

[Jenvenza]

I love your reviews so far!!

[padisneylover]

Great reviews:yay: Can't wait for more.

[Pinnkbunni02]

I love reading you reviews! They are so thoughtful and well written. I can't wait to read more! :surfweb:

[my2disneyboys]

Great reviews!!!! We leave in 7 days and Chef de France is our last lunch before we leave for the airport after spending 8 days on the deluxe dining plan! My boys love Remy and we are keeping this a surprise for them. I can't wait to see their faces when he comes out. I also can't wait to try the Onion Soup. (I was planning on having the mac and cheese until i saw your entree choice!):confused3

[DisneyJen]

Wonderfully written reviews:thumbsup2

Yachtsman's in one of our favorite dinner spots and Chef's is one of our favorite lunch spots. Our experiences sound quite like yours so I am looking forward to more reviews!

[nmmom95]

Your reviews are fantastic! I love the details and photos. Thanks!

[catne]

Loving your reviews! :thumbsup2 Fabulous pictures...I'm drooling over your dessert from Les Chefs. Will be there in May, and I know what I'm ordering for dessert. DH had that same rib dish in January and he liked it too...and I loved that French Onion soup.

Can't wait for more...you're doing a great job (and I have to diet for 3.5 more weeks...argh!)

[tink1957]

I'm really enjoying your reviews. You have a wonderful writing style, I can practically taste the food & I want a Majic Star Cocktail right now.

I can't wait to read your Cali Grill review, we're hoping for an ADR there in Sept.

[schmass]

Wow - great reviews! I can't wait to read the rest.

I also live in Colorado and went to culinary school!

[Uncle Remus]

Oh yeah, I'm in too. http://i250.photobucket.com/albums/gg245/Kurtz_09/adine.gif

[CoolPool]

popcorn::

[bethko1]

Wow!! Amazing reiews!!!:worship:

[katiebelle21]

Great reviews and pictures! I can't wait for more!

[Angelrose]

Great pictures and reviews. Can't wait for more.

[flipflopmom]

I was just going to click subscribe to this thread, but had to tell you what a wonderful job you are doing! Thanks for taking the time to share!

[disneyfan61]

Love the review on Chef's. We have eaten there once for lunch also & really loved it!! I'm sorry I did not book an ADR for our upcoming trip. Oh my gosh-you're dessert looked soooo good!! Exactly what I would order!!:thumbsup2

[derrickmom]

popcorn::
GREAT !!! WE WANT MORE!!!!:thumbsup2

[onelilspark]

Love your take on Chefs de France, and if you haven't tryed it before, Bistro is excellent.

I'm in the industry as well (not a chef, I sell to folks like you!) So I had to laugh when you made the comment about the way snails are now being sold. I make comments like that all the time and the people I'm with think I'm nuts :lmao: I can tell the difference between 4 different brands of mac & cheese just by looking at them and I can tell you instantly if it's homemade or not...it's a skill, no?

[whogirl'smom]

I'm really enjoying your reviews and pictures!

[msce2]

Wow! You should be doing this professionally!!!

Can't wait for more!popcorn::

[dancemomnj]

Enjoy reading your reviews! :thumbsup2Thank you for doing them!:)

[OurDogCisco]

Awesome reviews.... can't wait to hear the rest..

[MandM-Mom]

Great reviews, I would love to try Chefs this time I hope I can squeeze it it, I must have that soup and dessert:)

[GoofySon'sMom]

Terrific reviews! Love your take on dining! I had the Boneless Braised Beef Short Ribs at Chefs last summer and it was one of my favorite dishes all week. Been on the fence about going to the Yachtman, you may have pushed us over!

[gaffney09]

popcorn:: Can't wait to hear the rest of your reviews! Don't keep us hanging too long! (of course I have until Sept. to finalize my ADR's, but still... hahah!) Love your style of writing!

[luvpooh]

just wanted to add my thanks for posting these reviews and say I am looking forward to reading the rest - both reviews so far have made me want to make an ADR right now! :)

[photomama]

great reviews, can't wait to read the rest!!!

[scanne]

I love the Chefs review! We're dining there for dinner in June and I cannot wait. The french onion soup looks beautiful!

Thanks! Can't wait for more! :goodvibes

[Castillo Mom]

I'm really enjoying your straightforward reviews. Looking forward to more!:)

[webtrader]

Wow!

[TxRabbit]

Your dining report is every bit as wonderful as I hoped it to be! We are eating at many of the same restaurants. Our Chefs is for dinner though. I couldn't get an earlier ressie, I think because of Remy.

[TigerKat]

Jumping in for the rest, great reviews so far!:thumbsup2

[mommytothreeboys]

Just popping in to say hi! Great reviews...someday I'll be able to go to Disney and eat like this, but until then I'll live through you! ;)

[momthechauffer]

Looking forward to the Jiko review. I ate there last year and I'm curious to what your thoughts were and to see if you ate the same things we did.

Great reviews! Thanks!

[jakenjess]

Great reviews! We ate at Chefs last week for lunch and it was very good. We'll definitely go back.

Looking forward to the rest of your reviews. Looks like you've got a great line-up!:goodvibes

[maryann92201]

Subscribing! Love your reviews. So very thorough.

[DisneyHolidayFan]

Best review I have ever read!!! Keep up the great work. You should be a food critic!!!!! :thumbsup2

[maryisme]

Great reviews! Thank you for taking the time to put it all together for us. However, I do have one complaint. I must have a picture of your steak ;).

Mary

[disneysuncat]

Just subscribed to the thread. Your reviews are well written, and I truly enjoy reading them from your culinary-trained perspective.

[disneyquilter]

Love your dining reviews so far!! The family & I are going to try Chefs in August. Now I can't wait. :cool1:

[vettegirl]

Headed to Chefs in a few weeks, can't wait. Thanks for the review:thumbsup2

[seasideteacher]

now THIS is what I have been waiting for!! Hopefully you will finish your reviews right before I head to the world! Yummy pics!:banana:

[flowergirlbecca]

Great reviews- I can't wait to read more! :)

[ChefMickey123]

Before I get going with the next review, I wanted to say thanks again to everyone reading and making comments. I regret that I can’t individually quote and respond to all of them at this time. You should all know that it is extremely motivating to me, and helps me keep writing. I especially enjoy the quotes from other people in the food service business.
And now, my review of…

Dinner at the Jiko “Cooking Place” Chef’s Bar
April 20th, 2009


I dressed for dinner after a wonderful and long day at Epcot with Mom. Unbelievably, I was feeling hungry after my Chefs de France lunch. But, this was on purpose, as I made a late reservation for Jiko at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.


After the 15 minute cab ride across property from the Port Orleans Riverside Resort, I stepped out of the car at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, and through the front doors. I was instantly transported to another world…and was instantly lost. Though the place is extremely beautiful and well done, the signage was a little subtle for me to figure out where I was going.
So, after wandering aimlessly for a minute, I found a kind bartender who pointed me in the direction of Jiko. To spare you of this-go to the back right of the hotel from the front doors and down the winding staircase. Jiko is on the right, and the seemingly packed Boma buffet restaurant is on the left.


The host desk was easy to find, and the host/esses were very nice. They explained to me that they were running 15 minutes behind on reservations (which is no problem, it happens), and asked if, since I was dining alone if I wanted to sit at the chef’s cooking bar. I happily accepted the offer, and my pager, and made my way to the restaurant’s small, but cozy lounge.
The very nice South African bartender lady made me a Kilimangarita. Though very pink, it was very tasty. It was pretty much a margarita with a little kiss of cranberry juice to soften the blow from the sour mix. Like most cocktails in WDW, it was about $10 plus tip and tax.
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About half-way through my cocktail, the pager started to buzz and blink, and I was seated at the “Jiko” or the “cooking place” which is a very elegant marble topped wide bar with about a dozen seats in front of the appetizer show kitchen “island”. The kitchen is composed mostly of workspace, a small fryer area, cold storage facilities, serving area, hand washing sinks, and two of the ultimate chef’s toys—twin free-standing wood-fired ovens. I was seated on the end closest to the ovens, but amazingly, could not feel the heat-even though the oven gauges read at 800 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the evening.
Across the bar from my seat was an amazing view of the custom round wine storage cabinet. People spent serious time and money making Jiko “right”.
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After being seated, my order was taken promptly. Delicious bread followed-my favorite of the basket being flax seed foccacia. The spiced butter served with it was delicious, and cold. I actually stopped myself from eating the whole basket of bread, because I knew I had a lot of food to go before the night was over.
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I began my meal with the Barbecued Chicken Flatbread.
I watched this being made before my very eyes. Generous amounts of chicken, cheese, caramelized onion purée and coffee barbecue sauce we placed on the thin crust before it was baked in the blazing, stone deck, wood-fired oven. If that were all that was on the flatbread, it would have still been delicious. However, the chef-mastermind at this establishment went a step further. After baking, the flatbread was topped with grated Granny Smith apples tossed in finely chopped cilantro, adding the most wonderful contrast to the hot and savory flatbread below. I devoured this dish so quickly, I nearly embarrassed myself, but it was so good.
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After my first course, my plate was cleared, my glass of Kanonkop Pinotage wine (excellent, by the way, as it should have been for $20 a glass) was poured for me.
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I was then offered a hot towel scented with rose water to ceremonially cleanse my hands before dinner. It was a refreshing touch, and a level of service not often seen much.
My next course-Spiced Beef Briouats (lovely spiced curried shredded beef baked in Naan bread dough and brushed with oil) were one of many high points of this meal. Soft and hot with their dipping sauce-it was like eating a curry-scented hot pretzel stuffed with the most amazing shredded beef anyone could muster. Again, the plate was clean.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/easterandwdw057.jpg
Sadly, I don’t have a photo of my main course, but it was beautiful. Swahili curried shrimp with coconut rice, fresh greens, and peas was the most creative, flavorful entrée I enjoyed my week at Disney World. There was a great abundance of medium sized-shrimp tossed in a not-overbearing African-style curry and herb-field green salad. The crispness and freshness of the shrimp were complemented perfectly by the soft peas and delicious rice below. I left only a forkful of rice on the plate.

I sipped my wine, and basked in the glow of the glorious feast I had just eaten. I chatted with my fellow bar-diners while waiting for the dessert pitch from my server. If I had one complaint to make about this restaurant, it is that the servers’ sections seemed a bit large, and they were always barely catching their tails. However, everyone, including some of the hostesses and the manager pitched in when things got really busy, and I never waited for anything for too long.


I chose the Tanzanian Chocolate Cheesecake with lavender ice cream for dessert with coffee. The coffee arrived fresh, hot, and delicious. My dessert was the perfect size. I was worried that I would be unable to finish it. It was a small, round cheesecake, coated in dark chocolate ganache with a frilly garnish on top. Across the plate was the lavender ice cream. Again, a balance was achieved as the lavender ice cream was not too heavy as often times restaurant made ice creams can be. I alternated between the coffee, cheesecake, and ice cream, and was well satisfied.
My bill outside of the deluxe dining plan came to about $48 because I had an expensive glass of wine, a cocktail, and an extra course not on the plan. The deluxe plan bill was around $70.

This restaurant was a great escape from the theme parks. This restaurant has a great adult vibe about it. You would not know you were in Disney World, had it not been for the server’s name tags. I could dine at Jiko regularly once or twice a month and not get bored with the menu. The wine list is amazing. Be forewarned though. If you have picky eaters in your party, remember that all of the food tastes like something (good). Spices and salt are applied deftly everywhere.


If you have to have a plain steak with a potato and green beans with a shrimp cocktail every time you go out, you will not find it on the menu (although the Disney chefs would probably indulge you if you asked) at Jiko.


If you have kids, they make a rather yummy looking cheese pizza for kids in their wood-fired ovens. Another thing to note: Pork is a scarce, if non-existent ingredient at Jiko. If you are looking for it, wait for my upcoming reviews of Citricos and Flame Tree Barbecue.


Once you eat at Jiko, you will be hard-pressed to find a better dining experience anywhere.

[Castillo Mom]

Another wonderful review. Looking forward to the next one.:thumbsup2

[cnorth]

Great reviews! I agree that Jiko is amazing, and can't wait to get back to it. Thanks for making the wait a little more bearable!

[2xcited2sleep]

Fantastic reviews! I can't wait for more!!! popcorn::

[let'sgo]

I am really enjoying reading these reviews! Can't wait for more.

[derrickmom]

Thank you!!!! AWESOME!!!:thumbsup2

[jakenjess]

Jiko sounds wonderful! Thanks for the great review!:goodvibes

[skellingtonfreak]

Woah...your review of Jiko was the best I have ever read. I am so glad I am making the ADR for there in September...one of the places I am really looking forward to. That flatbread is definitely in my sights now even moreso than it was before.

Thanks!

[Tbelle1976]

Thanks for another great review. We will be dining at Jiko for the first time in September and I cannot wait, the Flatbread looks and sounds amazing!

[photomama]

Jiko sounds heavenly :dance3:

[HGD24]

Great reviews!

[gardengirl628]

Thank you for the great reviews so far! I can't wait to read more!

[Disneyfan18951]

Wonderful Reviews.

Jiko has never been high on my list of places to try (not sure why) but your review has my mouth watering. Jiko has risen to the top of the list.

I have enjoyed The Yachtsman and Chefs in the past and your description of both was wonderful and dead on.

Looking forward to the rest.

[iluvpluto27]

I'm loving your reviews so far, can't wait for the rest.

[da big r]

sounds cool!!! Great reviews!

[TigerKat]

Wonderful review of my fave place! We sat at "the cooking place" and loved it, can't wait to go back in October!:thumbsup2

[fantasia73]

I am enjoying your reviews very much. Many of the places that you are reviewing are places I will be dining at in August. Your food desciptions are particularly detailed which I really appreciate! It's nice to read reviews from a professional's opinion.

[Golf4food]

Great Jiko review. We're looking forward very much to try it for our next signature experience.

[2manypets]

Thanks for your review of Jiko. Your descriptions are tasty! Now I really can't wait to try Ji,o's. I also have Citricos on the list, so looking forward to your reviews of it.

[LPNmom]

Just caught up on your reviews. Great Job:worship:! You know you are in WDW when a rat serves you in Epcot:rotfl2:! Thanks for the great reviews, can't wait for more.

[Ms. Heimlich]

Like everyone else here I am sooo enjoying your reviews. We were waffling back & forth over our Chefs de France ADR and I think we are going to stick with it. Thanks for your help with the matter! ;)

Keep up the fabulous reviews!

[soulmates]

I'm completly enthralled by your report! I've JUST made my ressies for our Aug trip and JIKO was on your list. I'm SO glad I went with my gut on that. We're looking for ideas for lunches as most of our ressies are evenings. Your day in Epcot has my curiosity up. We very well may end up there. Thank you SO much for taking the time to share with all of us!!

Chris

[chocolateMinnie]

Loving the reviews so far. We find as the children are getting older they are happy to try most food but I think Jiko is still a step too far for them yet. They both like the look of Chefs de France though. We have booked the deluxe package for the first time next year, usually have paid oop but with the exchange rate so poor we would rather pay for our food up front.

Looking forward to more.

[disneymom2twins]

You are doing a fantastic job and I can't wait to hear more! Thank you for spending the time to share with us!

[D&R love Disney]

Fantastic reviews so far :thumbsup2 YSH and Jiko are 2 of my favorites and we are going to try Chefs in September for the first time!

[Cyndibear]

Jiko is amazing! We enjoy it everytime we go. We sat at The Cooking Place the last time we were there (just DH & I) and we enjoyed that too. Enjoying your very detailed reports!!

Cyndi

[katiebelle21]

This restaurant was a great escape from the theme parks. This restaurant has a great adult vibe about it. You would not know you were in Disney World, had it not been for the server’s name tags. I could dine at Jiko regularly once or twice a month and not get bored with the menu. The wine list is amazing. Be forewarned though. If you have picky eaters in your party, remember that all of the food tastes like something (good). Spices and salt are applied deftly everywhere.

I completely agree! Jiko is definitely one of my favorites.

[ljcrochet]

Great reviews! Can't wait to read the rest.

[Jitzy]

Thank you for all of the wonderful reviews! The descriptions of the dishes tastes and textures is making me hungry! Thank goodness our upcoming trip includes Jiko. I look forward to reading more.

[Piglet54]

Excellent reviews! I'm thinking of trying the Yachtsman on our next trip after reading your comments.

[seasideteacher]

My Disney friend, you are in your element here! Don't stop! Can't wait for more!:banana:

[TXMomof3boys]

Can't wait to come back and catch up on your dining review! Subscribing!!

[pennyplanner]

Great reviews! I'm in. :goodvibes

--penny

[DisneyCharacter]

Loved the Jiko review! Sign me up for morepopcorn::

[torsie24]

Wow! Love your review so far!!

All your meals look fabulous (especially Jiko) and you write wonderfully! can't wait for more!!

[momto2GAgirls]

WOW!!! So happy that I stumbled upon this amazing review while pondering the idea of adding the meal plan to my reservations! I truly appreciate food! And, after reading your reviews, sounds like I will appreciate adding the plan to my trip. I cannot wait for the next installment!! popcorn::

[TXMomof3boys]

Wow great reviews! I felt like I was there at the meals - delicious. Looking forward to reading more reviews.

[MissK]

Lovely reviews! I'd already made plans to attend Jiko but your review made me wish I was leaving right now!

[PracPerfPatricia]

Your reviews really are well done...:thumbsup2

Had never really considered Yachtsman before your review...was pleasantly surprised by your impressions...

Definately doing Jiko in August and strongly considering Citricos-looking forward to reading about that...popcorn::

Also wondering and Yak and Yeti-while everyone seems to like the setting-the food is rated all over the place...

I'm also glad to see you do a little CS reviews-most people mix up their higher end dining with CS-so curious about that as well...

The butter thing is one of my pet peeves...:headache: I hate getting that almost frozen butter...what in the heck are you supposed to do with that:confused-it sure isn't spreadable so what's the point?

Looking forward to the rest...

[nicoleakr]

popcorn::great reviews can't wait to see more.:thumbsup2

[binkytell]

my hubbie made me add ressie at jiko after
readin your review:goodvibes

[Leshaface]

I love the lavender ice cream from Jiko! Subscribing!

[JLS]

Excellent reviews. Thanks for taking the time. We loved Jiko when we went a few years ago and cannot wait to go back again.

[fantasia73]

Patiently awaiting more . . .;)

[Sorsha]

Just giving you a wee BUMP to get you back on page one!

Can't wait for more reviews! :surfweb:

[ChefMickey123]

Thank you, readers for all of your kind comments. I had some difficult circumstances preventing me from playing on the internet too much last month, but I am pleased to continue writing my restaurant reviews as long as you wish to read them.

And so, we now present-April 21, 2009-Sit Down Lunch at the Yak & Yeti, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

After a brief foray around the park safari ride and train, it was time to make my way over to lunch. I skipped any and all kinds of breakfast/coffee, so I was famished…which turned out to be a good thing.


My Yak & Yeti reservation was for 11:00 and at about 10:30 I was passing the restaurant and popped in to let them know I was there and ready. The nice lady at the door gave me a yellow ticket with some numbers on it and said to come back at 11:00.


I thought I would try to do a ride, and so, I did. I chose to ride the Kali River Rapids, where I met a nice British family here on holiday. I never got so drenched on a ride in my life. Shortly after, I was seated, shivering and soaked from the waist-down on the second floor of the Yak & Yeti restaurant.


I had a glorious window seat overlooking the path below. I felt as if I were a privileged guest of one of Indiana Jones’ overseas hosts. There are many nice things about the Yak & Yeti décor. My favorites were the inlaid wood chairs around the nicely carved tables.


Soon thereafter, my server came over and introduced herself. She was very nice. After explaining that the restaurant is “a little different” from the rest of the Disney restaurants (Yak & Yeti is a mini boutique group of restaurants owned by Landry’s Seafood), I was given the dining plan speech. At this restaurant, on the Deluxe Dining Plan, you receive an Appetizer-and they mean appetizer-not soup nor salad, Main Course, Dessert, and Non-Alcoholic beverage.


My meal selections were the Pork Pot-Sticker Appetizer, Shrimp Lo-Mein, Mango Pie, and coffee.


While waiting for my appetizer, I sipped on the Shanghai Express Cocktail, a delicious concoction of rums and fruit juices reminiscent of the days when you actually ordered food in a Chinese restaurant rather than just belly up to the buffet. It came in an elegant glass and was refreshing and relaxing. In fact, it was so relaxing that, even with my size and tolerance for alcohol, two would have been enough to send me to Dreamland.


http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/easterandwdw087.jpg


My Pot-Stickers arrived in short order, hot, crispy and delicious (you have a choice of seared or steamed, I chose seared). The sauce actually had a sour citrus kick to it, which I enjoyed, as often I find commercially prepared duck sauce too sweet.


http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/easterandwdw088.jpg


Following the Pot-Stickers was the Shrimp Lo-mein. I was not expecting from a restaurant such as this to be as good as it was. The balance of flavors in this dish was impressive. There was even a hint of iron-wok seared flavor throughout the dish. Plenty of medium-sized shrimp were evenly distributed throughout the vegetables and noodles. The flavor was very addictive (umami), and I cleaned my plate with little effort.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/easterandwdw089.jpg

I was very worried about my dessert course; as mango flavored things tend to taste “fuzzy” or “gritty” if not absolutely fresh. This occurs from the enzymes in the mango breaking down the proteins in other ingredients it is combined with.


There was no need to worry, though. The pie was reminiscent of a finely made Key-Lime (although distinctly mango in flavor) pie with crumbled cookie crust. It was just sweet enough, and the whipped cream & fruit sauces which adorned it were complementary rather than superfluous decoration. My coffee went down well too.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/easterandwdw090.jpg


The service was the fastest I received during my stay. Being by myself and wanting to get back to the park attractions, this was quite welcome. My server was pleasant, and forgot nothing, earning her the customary 20%.


Something else of note-because of their unique, non-Disney structure, the Yak & Yeti offers a great dining experience for families (yes, I know, Disney does an awesome job). There was a table of four, parents and two young boys, across from me. The kids not only received main course with two sides and dessert, but they also got an appetizer, so it was fun to watch them try all of the different kinds of appetizers.


In summary, I have no problem recommending the Yak & Yeti. This is an Asian restaurant, and the quality is comparable to any mid-size city’s best place of Wokery. It is a welcome respite from the hot park (air- conditioned), and an enjoyable meal.

Next time-Did I survive my trip to Planet Hollywood with the grandparents?

[mommytothreeboys]

ChefMickey! My friend!! I was worried about you...I hope things are okay for you.

Great review! My in-laws were in WDW in January and they said Yak and Yeti was the best meal they had.

I love the description of why Mango things get "fuzzy"! You channeled Alton Brown there for a moment! LOL...LOVE it!

Glad you're back! You were missed! :)

[luckytobeme88]

Wow, that was an amazingly "senior friendly" review of Yak & Yeti.
Thank you.

[DisneyHolidayFan]

So glad you are back with your wonderful reviews and hope that everything is well with you now. :goodvibes

[CanadianPaco]

I love your reviews and writing style! What a pleasure to read!! THANKS!:love:

[tink1957]

Thanks so much for the Yak & Yeti review, it makes me even more excited to try it in Sept. I must get one of those Shanghi Express drinks, it looks so refreshing.

Thanks also for the bold letters, it was a very pleasant read for my 50 year old eyes.

[2manypets]

I'm so glad you're back! Another great review.

[adsrtw]

May I jump in a little late? I enjoy your writing style and can't wait to hear more reviews.

[Maxwell42]

I'm enjoying your reviews - you bring a fresh perspective - so I think I'll subscribe.

[cnorth]

Thanks for the Yak and Yeti review. It's our first meal, and you definately made me feel better about my choice.

[onelilspark]

After hearing some shaky reviews of Yak & Yeti from when it first opened, it seems to really be picking up steam now! I'll have to put it on my list to try!

[jessters7]

I'm in! Awesome reviews so far- and I look forward to reading more! :goodvibes

[Shir Kahn]

I'm jumping in on this one too! I love the reviews. I've never really desired to dine at the Yak n Yeti until your review. Also, although I'm not a senior, I definitely enjoy the large font you use! :goodvibes

[mommyoftwinfants]

Count me in too!!! :goodvibes

[hill6]

[FONT="Arial Black"][SIZE="5"][COLOR="Green"]I thought I would try to do a ride, and so, I did. I chose to ride the Kali River Rapids, where I met a nice British family here on holiday. I never got so drenched on a ride in my life. Shortly after, I was seated, shivering and soaked from the waist-down on the second floor of the Yak & Yeti restaurant.


At this restaurant, on the Deluxe Dining Plan, you receive an Appetizer-and they mean appetizer-not soup nor salad, Main Course, Dessert, and Non-Alcoholic beverage.




I get extremely wet on Kali. Last month I had to buy an entire new outfit. I brought the flip flops to put on and gave mom my sneakers to hold in her scooter.

Strange about the appetizer comment. We had DxDP also and were not told any restrictions with the appetizers. I had the salad and it counted as an appetizer. It was a delicious salad too. The dressing there is very good.

We thoroughly enjoyed our meal there. :thumbsup2

[Kellyh123]

I am really enjoying your reviews!
Thanks so much for taking the time to give us such amazing descriptions.

[mlittig]

Hi ChefMickey123,
I just subcribed to your thread, it is the first subbing I have done! :goodvibes My daughter also graduated from CIA at Hyde Park. :stir: What an amazing place it is located on the beautiful Hudson River. They provide an outstanding education. I absolutely love your reviews and completely enjoy your fabulous writing style. You make for very interesting reading and mouth watering descriptions. :thumbsup2 Thanks so much and I look forward to reading more.
:teacher:

1987 First time to WDW :) Polynesian

1990 Polynesian

2002 Off site

2008 Port Orleans French Quarter

6/25/09 Port Orleans French Quarter here we come :yay: :yay: :yay:

[butiflfeet]

I love how you're describing the food! Thanks so much for sharing, I'll definitely keep checking back for more :thumbsup2

[bonnielynn]

i'm in.

[Ciciwoowoo]

Oh, I very much am enjoying reading your review!

:goodvibes

[hockeybabe]

Wonderful reviews, keep them coming!

[Busymom85]

Best reviews ever. Can't wait for you to finish. Thanks for posting.

[Lynn5700]

WOW I love your reviews!! I can not wait to try Jiko, and Yak&Yeti in Jan!! We were supposed to do Jiko in May, but we never got to it.

Glad you liked Chefs!! One of my favorites!! Love it there.

I can not wait to hear about Citricos. We are going to be trying that in Jan too!!

[2xcited2sleep]

So glad you're back. Great Y&Y review. And perfectly timed as I am solidifying my ADRs for my next trip. Sigh. Too many restaurants... too few meals. :lmao:

Thanks for sharing your reviews with us! :)

[LaNina72]

Great Reviews :thumbsup2... looking forward to more!

[RachaelRol]

Fab report. please keep it coming!!:thumbsup2

[23saralynn]

Great reviews - we are going to Yachtsman for our anniversary dinner and am so glad to hear that you thought it was good. We are also doing Yak & Yeti with the kids and are really excited.

[EpcotSweetHrts0512]

I love your reviews! Thank you for taking the time to let us all know about your wonderful meals. My husband and I are hoping to try many restaraunts on your list on our next trip! :goodvibes

[nittanyliongirl02]

Hey ChefMickey123.....count me in as I am enjoying your reviews WAAAAAYYYY too much!

Thanks!

[ash&abby'smom]

Great reviews. Can't wait to read the rest.

[ozziewags]

Count me in!

[annie1995]

I just found your reviews tonight and love them!!! I can't wait to hear more!!!

[hopeforus]

ChefMickey ... we need more... I'm in
1:)

[TiffinyKC]

Dude...your reviews are awesome. I'm glad that you're able to continue with them.

I am really jealous of where you live too. Geez.

[cjdj4]

Great reviews!

[disneygirlinnj]

Loving all of your reviews so far. You can definitely tell you speak from culinary knowledge, if that makes sense :)

My old job was in Poughkeepsie and we used to always go to lunch at the CIA. Loved it and wished I lived closer now to eat there on a regular basis again.

[NWOhioAngela]

Late to the party, but subbing anyway. I'm really enjoying your reviews.

[jdisnut]

Please update soon! You have a loyal fan base desperately awaiting your prose.

[TxRabbit]

Please update soon! You have a loyal fan base desperately awaiting your prose.
::yes::

What he said.

[GeminiAngel]

I just read what you had posted of your trip report & now just read through this wonderful dining report. Please!!! do not abandon this! I love your writing and would have never of even considered trying escargot if I didn't read your report. And Jiko, I must try it now, even if I have to leave my plain and boring family behind. :rotfl::rotfl:

[onejellyshelly]

I loved your reviews. Your review of Chefs de France actually made me change my reservations so I could fit it in for lunch. Thanks, and keep them coming.

[faindrops27]

Loved your reviews!:goodvibes

[disneyfav4ever]

Love your reviews, can't wait to read more.

[PixieDustandEeyore]

I'm doing Deluxe dining my next trip and hearing about the yummy 2 credit dining places in the way you describe them sounds wonderful. Thanks for the expert reviews

[Dreamer & Wisher]

Great reviews so far. I hope you will be able to do more.

[Pooh&OurHunny]

enjoying your reviews...can't wait to read more.

[ChefMickey123]

My parents once took my sisters and I to a drive in movie. The film was "Bambi". There was a moral in the story--, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

That will sum up nicely my experience with my grandparents at Planet Hollywood.

[ChefMickey123]

Now, with the most recent unpleasantness out of the way, I am glad to announce that I have spent the last two academic quarters in Seminary, and have been very, very busy. I apologize for the great delay in finishing these reviews.

So, for my next meal, I chose a late breakfast at the Grand Floridian Cafe. I arrived at 9am sharp for my ressie and was seated immediately. I had a lovely young family to my left and an empty table to the right.

My server was fantastic and brought me coffee:surfweb: and Oj and H2O. All three were great.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/100.jpg

As I was going on the EPCOT Living Seas with Nemo aqua snorkeling tour after this, I ate big. I had the skillet breakfast. It was a kitchen sink of a meal that began with biscuits and gravy, then potatoes, then scrambled eggs, bacon, and cheese. It was hot, fast, and delicious.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/101.jpg

The cafe was decorated in typical modernized "Mary Poppins" style (yes, I know this means Victorian, but we are in Disney World, so we say Mary Poppins).

Nice, heavy silverware and nice looking china.

No complaints for this eye-opening establishment. It was busy, yet efficient and without panic.

[SereneOne]

subscribing:goodvibes

[SweetMommy]

keep em coming, i love your reviews!

[kayrosek]

So glad to find your reviewsas they contain exactly the information I need to plan an anniversary DxDP food centered trip to the world for my husband and I. Can't wait to read more.

[TxRabbit]

Yay! You're back!!!

Seminary? Are you still working as a chef? AND going to school? That would make you very busy indeed. Or have you begun a whole new career? Or were you looking to get ordained to be in ministry in a way other than pastor? Am I too nosy? I'm just honestly interested...

Lovely that you are back to continue to give us your amazing insights. So glad you are continuing the reviews...

[ChefMickey123]

:love:So glad to find your reviewsas they contain exactly the information I need to plan an anniversary DxDP food centered trip to the world for my husband and I. Can't wait to read more.

Thanks Kay,

My trip was exactly that-food centered. There was a time when a food-centric Disneyworld vacation was not a possibility. Over the last 25 years, those folks in FL have made great strides and have tried to stay ahead of the power curve to give us the grown-up dining experience we want in the place where we can all dream like children. As a former foodservice pro, I can tell you, it isn't easy. I hope and pray you and your husband have a wonderful anniversary trip.

"I'm still dreaming of my true love's kiss...":rolleyes:

[ChefMickey123]

Yay! You're back!!!

Seminary? Are you still working as a chef? AND going to school? That would make you very busy indeed. Or have you begun a whole new career? Or were you looking to get ordained to be in ministry in a way other than pastor? Am I too nosy? I'm just honestly interested...

Lovely that you are back to continue to give us your amazing insights. So glad you are continuing the reviews...

It is great to hear from you again. I have given up professional chefdom for the ministry. I still cook for those whom I am close to. I am finishing up my first year at the seminary this May. I'll be spending summer at a Christian camp in the real O CANADA! as a director. I'm sure there will be a chance to pitch in on the food now and then.

My seminary choir tour spent an afternoon at DTD this past January. It was great to be back and in the know-and to have a pin lanyard. My buddies cheaped out on me, so I had to eat off DTD property, but it wonderful to play tour guide.

Anything else you want to know, just ask. Don't worry about being nosy.
:goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

[Denzbrujah]

I'm in ... while not a chef I do consider myself quite the foodie and a damn good cook ... love your approach to reviewing your dining experiences. I look forward to reading the rest soon.

[mommytothreeboys]

Hey you! Nice to see you back on the boards! You've been missed! :goodvibes

[podsnel]

I have just found your TR, so while I can't say I've missed you, I AM glad you're back writing more reviews! So nice to hear your opinions- hope you'll continue to find the time in your busy, busy life. :goodvibes

[ChefMickey123]

The California Grill
A dinner of epic portions
Once upon a time way back in the winter of 1975 the parents of yours truly ate their honeymoon dinner at the Top of the World and stayed at the American Contemporary resort. I was just a four-month old in the womb, yet there was an affinity to return to this mystical place. Now, the names of the aforementioned venues have changed to just “Contemporary” and “California Grill” respectively. Also, the menu has changed-while my parents reminisce of their showy Cherries Jubilee dessert, the open kitchen now was a new kind of dinner show.
I began by arriving at the Contemporary Resort’s East entrance about 15 minutes before my reservation. I found my way up the escalator the hostess desk for the Grille and gave my name. I was promptly (I am dining alone this evening) taken up the elevator and asked if I would mind sitting at the sushi bar. Understanding fellow restaurant manager I was, complied gracefully. I was seated, and then a couple in their 50s was seated shortly after me. We talked for a bit in between courses and shared each other’s sushi plates. They were lovely people from the northeast U.S.
The restaurant had a problem that evening—the ventilation over the wood-fired grill and pizza oven was out of commission. No flat-bread, no oak grilling. And you would never know the difference. The menu was reprinted and executed flawlessly.
After a glass of excellent Chardonnay, the name now escapes me, by flavor and price tag will be with me forever, my first course, Sushi “Snake in the Grass Roll” arrived.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/111.jpg
It was 12 inches of tempura shrimp wrapped in rice, wrapped in avocado, topped with smoked eel fillet and drizzled with an amazing sweet soy reduction. My neighbor’s had some sort of crab roll with a spicy warm scallop sauce. It too was amazing. Freshness was not an issue. Presentation was impeccable. There was no need for soy sauce, pickled ginger or wasabi. The sushi staff was friendly and on the rare moment of a lull, they spoke with customers. Yoshie, the head sushi chef even accommodated two people, who I don’t have much nice to say about, who insisted rather loudly on having shrimp cocktail which was not on the menu. Being Disneyworld, the insistence was not requisite-of course the said item was made without question. If you decide on a sushi appetizer (don’t miss the sushi, this is a good place to try it if you have never had it, because they offer cooked and raw ingredients), and are dining with someone else, share-it is plenty. The trading with my neighbors sort of just canceled out stomach space.

Here are more sushi pics:
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/110.jpg
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/117.jpg
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/118.jpg


Moving on, it was time for the appetizer-fried oysters in chile-cilantro oil on beds of heart of palm salad. I have to say-oysters are pretty swanky, but then to put them on fresh hearts of palm was even more swanky—This was my first time with fresh hearts of palm (doesn’t exactly grow fresh in Colorado-had to use cans)-it was tender, mild and delicious and a perfect foil for the crunchy breaded oysters. That appetizer was gone in no time.
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My wine now meandered to a red heavy thing with a heavy price tag as my beef filet with BBQ sauce, asparagus and mashed potatoes came. Simple is best. The beef was an easy 10 ounces. The sides were ample. The BBQ sauce was slightly more bitter than I like, but none the less high quality. The bread with dinner was fresh and artisan, as expected, and yes, the butter was cold.
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I was rather full at the end of this, but had to persevere through dessert.




Dessert was nothing less than expected-a nice warm chocolate cake with a lump of raspberry ice cream and a cup of coffee. It was not too big, which was good.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/119.jpg
Then, it was time for a drink. I had been eyeing the 150 year Grand Marnier on the internet menus for months. It was still there. Dare I spend close to $40 on a cocktail?
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/120.jpg
It was insane, but yes, I dared. Then the lady sitting next to me insisted on one too.
Then, the perfect Walt Disney World Moment occurred. I was handed my drink and told by my wonderful waitress to turn my chair around to face the window. The lights in the restaurant grew dim. The music faded in and the first burst of fireworks occurred as I sipped my orange-infused elixir. For many years I had this scene in my mind from watching it on television and movies. There it was, for real, just across the lake-the castle, the fireworks, and the music. A snippet of “When You Wish Upon a Star” played and I felt a lump in my throat growing. I chased it away with a heavy gulp of Grand Marnier, wiped my eyes with a cocktail napkin and watched everyone in the room, even the staff, smile uncontrollably as the show went on. Moms and Dads held their children. Lovers held each other & kissed, and after it was all over, I toasted my neighbors with the few drops of what was left in my snifter.


After the fireworks and music had ended, applause ensued-for whom I do not know, but mine was for the fine kitchen and dining room staff of this exquisite, yet comfortable gem of a restaurant.
The bill came. On top of my meal plan, I had spent an additional $87 on drinks and Sushi. With tip on that plus the dining plan tip it was more like $120. It was a once in a lifetime experience, which I hope to repeat again in this life. There will be some saving and waiting involved, as new Lutheran pastors don’t make as much money as seasoned hoteliers.
Make no mistake, the California Grill lives up to its rep in service, quality, and price. It is not a quiet experience, with open kitchen and a very busy bar and reservation book. Go. Even if you don’t spend extra money like I did, your three deluxe dining courses are delicious-it is worth the two credits on the DXDP. Have a wonderful time there.

[SweetMommy]

After reading that review of California Grille, I am 100x more excited about dining there come August!!!!

[TigerKat]

You truly captured the magic of CG. I'm now dying to go back!:thumbsup2

[amosser]

What a wonderful review.

I got a lump in my throat and tears in my eyes remembering those 'Wishes' moments from our first trip :lovestruc

On the downside ;) I feel I must now try to incorporate CG into our upcoming trip for which I already have our ADR's planned :lmao::lmao::lmao:

Oh well back to the drawing board....

[kayrosek]

Absolutley wonderful review of Cali grill. I was pretty sure I would try to book this place for our anniversary dinner but now I am absolutley positive.

[Pooh&OurHunny]

Your back and I'm so happy to read a wonderful update. Thanks for taking the time b/c I truelly have enjoyed your food reviews.

[vinotinto]

WOW! I missed your reviews when you first started them. I love reading reviews from people who simply love food. Will be waiting patiently for the next installments popcorn::

[TxRabbit]

I'm so glad you had such a lovely CG dining experience!

Ours was earlier in the evening. We didn't see Wishes while we were there, though we were invited to come back to the same level to enjoy. We ate earlier in the evening, and thus, did actually enjoy a relatively quiet meal that was no less outstanding than yours. How fun to read about sitting at the bar, I have to admit that I contemplated requesting it, because I had read that it can be quite enjoyable to watch the chefs at work.

The sushi was fabulous. So much so that my DS(then 8) discovered how much he loves AHI tuna. We also would return for more, given our next opportunity to the world. After reading your review, we just might have to try to go when we could enjoy Wishes during our meal. When we went, it was just too late for our family to really enjoy it. The meal would have been ruined for the incredible hunger from such a late meal.

Lovin' the reviews...

btw...forgive me for not being able to quote chapter and verse, but I do know that...My God will give you the desires of your heart...I'm sure that you will go that way again...no guarantees on time or frequency... :)

[tracisup]

I'm loving this report. I just cried reading about watching wishes from the Cali Grill. I made reservations for my family 1&1/2 hours before Wishes is set to begin. I hope we are not too early.

[DLo]

welcome back, good luck with your seminary schooling. Wonderful reviews so far . glad you took the time to come back.

[mickeysgirl17]

Just found this thread and read all the reviews. Great so far. Love the details and the pictures. Can't wait for the next one.

[tinkerbell48]

Great so far. I'm in.:hippie:

[PictureJumpr]

I just found your reviews, and wow - great stuff! :goodvibes

I too am a former HRM-type who has changed tracks. I'm still in service/hospitality, no longer in food though. It is interesting to see a perspective from someone with such a background.

I'm the one who gets ridiculed by her companions sometimes for suggesting signature dining in lieu of Princesspalooza or QS burgers. Not that there is anything wrong with those, a time and a place for everything, but it is part of the 'other side' of WDW to indulge in the finer dining. Last trip, I had already booked with DxDDP when a close friend decided she wanted to go - but thought I was absolutely nuts for the dining thing and wanted us to cancel it. :laughing: You want in on my room discount (by staying in my discounted room with me), you be prepared to book the dining.

Long story short, she wants to go with me next month and the first thing she asked was, please tell me you are booking California Grill? :rolleyes:



Looking forward to reading more of your experiences!

[ChefMickey123]

The Hollywood Brown Derby Lunch


:3dglasses The Disney-M-G-M-Hollywood-want-to-compete-with-Universal-but-don’t-like-renewing-licensing-contracts-Studios-Theme-Park.:3dglasses

After a failed attempt at American Idol (I did at least get to sing a second audition) and grabbing my Toy Story Mania Fastpass; I worked up an appetite for lunch by hitting the Muppets 3-D and the Back lot tour. I arrived early for my Hollywood Brown Derby lunch ressie. I would be meeting the grandparents for dinner that night, and they like to eat early, so I arranged the early ADR for lunch. It was too early to be seated, so I had a nice 20 minute nap in the big comfy leather chairs just inside the restaurant near the hostess station. The doors were open, and there was a nice cool breeze blowing through. Very unlike L.A… I was gently awakened by the hostess saying my name, and I was the first one seated. I had my food & drinks picked out already, and I quickly summed up my request to my very experienced and friendly waiter. Before I could butter a dinner roll and blink, my Grey Goose Vodka Martini with Olives-dry and straight up, arrived. It felt good going down. The restaurant is decorated with leather booths and celebrity caricatures. It is a Martini kind of place.

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So, for a first course I received the house bean and bacon soup. It was delicious, but was not what I expected to have by way of presentation or eye appeal. The bean soup was actually pureed completely smooth before serving and had some crumbles of bacon stuff floating in the middle. It was actually rather disappointing to look at, yet very delicious and satisfying.

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For my next course, I had a rib eye steak with greens. The steak was actually served under the greens. The greens remained relatively crisp while the steak warmed the dish through from underneath. Although it looked quite odd, and I wondered where my steak was when the plate arrived, it was a great dish, and very refreshing to be served a steak with a vegetable. Many steak places have gone totally a la carte to please clientele and shareholders. It was nice to have a well-composed steak plate. I ordered my steak medium-rare,--that is how it should be, and that is how it arrived. There was nothing left.


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http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/134.jpg

Onto dessert-- After finishing my glass of Silverado (a Disney person owns this vineyard) I was presented with my options. There was no doubt in my mind-grapefruit cake. People, it is a cake; it is not meant to be a masterpiece of stunning proportions. Many folks on these boards say the cake is dry or tasteless or whatever. The words I would use are subtle and homemade. As people who live in the U.S., we eat a lot of sugar in our diets, either intentionally or in process. We have high tolerance for sugar in desserts. This dessert was pleasantly sweet without being cloying. The dried grapefruit garnish was superfluous and useless because it had not been rendered edible by a candying process (see my comment on sugar intake). A simple grapefruit sauce was served with the cake. If it was dry, I could not tell. Coffee was good as per usual. I would eat this cake again.
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I had a very pleasant meal at the Brown Derby. I know this restaurant gets a bad rap a lot. It does not deserve it. As far as service goes, if you treat people well and have some patience you will have a great experience. Don’t go to this restaurant if it is 11:30 am and you have 7 kids with you and absolutely must see the 12:15pm “Voyage of the Little Mermaid” This is a slow, relaxing, air-conditioned, adult dining experience.


Just a quick note-thanks for the great stories and comments people have replied here with. My writing time is limited now that I am back in school full-time, and the more encouragement I get, the more motivated I am to write another one.--Peace.

[TigerKat]

I'm really enjoying your reviews, can't wait for more!!!!:goodvibes I loves me a good martini too!;)

[podsnel]

I am so glad you enjoyed BD, I really have always liked that restaurant and it has been getting a bad rap lately. Happy to hear there are still good meals to be had!

And put me with TigerKat in the catagory of I loves me a good martini!! :thumbsup2 I think BD is DEFINITELY a martini kind of a place!

[mickeysgirl17]

Great update!

[disneyfav4ever]

If I can’t have, or don’t want something on the menu that the chef has paired with my selection, I order something else entirely. I realize this is not the way the majority feels, but it is the perspective from which all of these dining reviews will be written.I just wanted to comment on this. I agree with you completely. Maybe it's because I used to work in the business as well, but I almost always order things as is on the menu. The only time I remember making a change is subbing mashed potatoes for whatever the porterhouse had come with the last time I ate at Yachtsman, but they had been just so good the first time I had eaten there that I had to have them again.

[ChefMickey123]

Citricos Dinner at the Grand Floridian Resort


Out of all of my signature dining experiences at the World, this one, while still very good, is my least favorite. Certain things with this meal were just ‘not right’. I came in to nearly empty, yet still understaffed restaurant, so I had a drink at the bar-the Citricos version of a Cosmopolitan.

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It was good. Nothing to write home about-but it was good. After 10 minutes, I was seated and put across from a table with four very loud, complaining people. Their waiter was trying to be good, but they beat him up so much that he was almost in tears by the time he got to me. I took it easy on him, and he admitted he was having not the best of nights.



I continued with the show, and gave him my order. I had the artisan cheese plate, the trio of pork, lots of yummy homemade bread and butter, and the tiramisu washed down with coffee and a glass of red something or another wine.
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I have to say that while my fruit at cheese plate was of the highest quality imaginable, the quantities served were ridiculously small. I would say less than a ½ ounce of each cheese-humbolt fog, local lemon ricotta, and another which I cannot recollect. My fruit included grapes shriveled on the vine, some fig jam, a fig, and a few berries. It also came with 3 very small pieces of toasted bread. At $18 per, I would have been upset, had I not been on the deluxe dining plan, as my money carried a bit more weight. It was delicious, it really was, but the value was lacking.

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It was then a seemingly interminable wait for my entrée while the one of the chefs spent a long time hob-knobbing with the next table. I could see my entrée being prepared by the student-chef in the kitchen. He did a good job-not great. The portions were too small for the menu price ($28 should buy a nice hefty chop or its equivalent) I was served three thin, medium cooked pork tenderloin slices, about 3 tablespoons of some of the best polenta I have ever had, and some tender pork belly, sprinkled with coarse salt to make up for the fact that the skin was not crispy. The pork belly had some very mild homemade sauerkraut underneath it. At this point, I was happy to have eaten a lot of bread with my cheese plate.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/140.jpg
So dessert did not impress me either-it was beautiful, it looked liked tiramisu, but did taste of it. I know it is Disneyworld, but not a trace of the famed liqueur or its ersatz version was detected in this dessert. Yes folks, I had the AA version of tiramisu.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/142.jpg

What resulted was an overly sweet concoction that tasted nothing of the real thing—but at least was pretty. I did not finish it. The somewhat redeeming French Press of coffee that came with the dining plan was the highlight of the evening’s meal.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/141.jpg
Again folks, the meal was good, but not great, and there seemed to be a sort of lazy or “I don’t care" attitude about the whole staff.
I would eat here again, but not at the high stakes a birthday, anniversary, or engagement requires.

[auntfrannie]

I'm sorry your didn't have a good experience at Citrico's. It's one of my favorite signature restaurants and I've never had bad food or service. I had the tiramisu in October and it was very good. I hope they were just having an off night and that your experience isn't a sign of a downward spiral!!

[margareton27]

Citrico's was our least favourite as well when we were there a few years back. We ordered the wine pairing for my DH and the waitress poured his red wine in to the same glass that held his white (after checking to make sure it was empty of course :confused3)

[mickeysgirl17]

I don't know what it is about Citricos. Every time I consider it, I end up changing my mind and never going there. The menu just doesn't appeal to me much.

Thanks for the update.

[PictureJumpr]

I have to agree, Citrico's is not one of my favorites either.
Seriously, why bother putting pork belly on the menu if you're not going to work with it properly?

I didn't have the pork last time we were there, but given the state of what I ended up with (a more-than-$30 salmon brick) I am not shocked to hear this :rotfl:

[TigerKat]

I'm sad to read this. Citricos became our favorite of all the signature restaurants last October and we followed up with another outstanding meal in February. Service and food quality have always been excellent.

[ChefMickey123]

I'm sad to read this. Citricos became our favorite of all the signature restaurants last October and we followed up with another outstanding meal in February. Service and food quality have always been excellent.

Restaurants do have off nights, they are only human-even Disney humans can't be perfect. I'm glad some other folks had good trips to Citricos.

[podsnel]

Those portions of yours were ridiculous. So sorry it was just such an off night there. We liked Citricos, but it did not blow our socks off- but I kind of attributed that to the fact that we ate there the night after V&A's, which our tastebuds were still revelling in! :rotfl: Thanks for being so honest! :thumbsup2

[princessallegra]

I just wanted to say thank you so much for your amazingly detailed, informative, interesting, and helpful reviews. Your insight and take on the service, food, and cocktails has been invaluable! We are veterans of the DDP, and are doing the DxDP for the first time in June with a great PIN. We will be celebrating our 1 year anniversary at California Grill (our fave) on arrival night. We're also trying many of the restaurants you dined at on our trip for the first time: Les Chefs de France lunch, Yak and Yeti lunch, Narcoossee's, Jiko, and Yachtsman Steakhouse to be precise, so your reviews have just been SO helpful. DH and I have been poring over menus and we just can't wait to take this culinary journey! Many thanks for the reviews of the many cocktails, I can never say no to a delicious cocktail, and it seems we have similar taste! I can't wait to try a Magic Star! I am a faithful follower now and can't wait for the rest of your reviews!!!!!!!! You rock!!!!!!!!!!! :goodvibes:goodvibes:goodvibes

[Brook1099]

Woderful Reviews!!!:worship:

Yachtsmen is our favorite Disney Restaraunt and often visit twice in our 2 week vacation.

We are trying Yak and Yeti for the first time this year and very excited to do so now!

Please Continue.....

[wyonative78]

The California Grill
A dinner of epic portions

Then, the perfect Walt Disney World Moment occurred. I was handed my drink and told by my wonderful waitress to turn my chair around to face the window. The lights in the restaurant grew dim. The music faded in and the first burst of fireworks occurred as I sipped my orange-infused elixir. For many years I had this scene in my mind from watching it on television and movies. There it was, for real, just across the lake-the castle, the fireworks, and the music. A snippet of “When You Wish Upon a Star” played and I felt a lump in my throat growing. I chased it away with a heavy gulp of Grand Marnier, wiped my eyes with a cocktail napkin and watched everyone in the room, even the staff, smile uncontrollably as the show went on. Moms and Dads held their children. Lovers held each other & kissed, and after it was all over, I toasted my neighbors with the few drops of what was left in my snifter.




I have never before teared up while reading a dining review! My husband and I have been doubting our Cali Grill reservation, but after reading your review, we cannot wait to go! :)

[TxRabbit]

Just caught up on the reviews...DH interviewed in GA today...we aren't sure if we will be moving to GA or simply closer to his current job here in TX, but nevertheless, in a mad rush, we are trying to finalize the house projects to be able to sell our home and move this summer...busy, busy, busy...I'm glad that you had new reviews to read when I could spend some time on the boards.

We loved our Hollywood Derby lunch. It was so perfect to have a nice long sit in air conditioned comfort and eat such wonderful food. The meal we had there was our all around favorite, the best combination of appie, entree, and dessert. We got to sit in one of the booths...it was so nice. I'm glad you also had a great lunch there.

Too bad about Citricos. Haven't been. The one time I had a ressie for it, it was arrival night on our August trip to Beach Club. We were relying on Disney transportation. We had gone swimming and were SO tired from that and travel. I couldn't imagine having to deal with the transportation to get to dinner. We had received an upgrade to concierge and they were serving RIBS that night. I canceled the ressie and we ate dinner is our room. On our next trip...it just didn't appeal for some reason...I do hope that your experience was NOT indicative of standard and like you said, that they were having an "off night."

As always, lovin the reviews...

[ChefMickey123]

The Great Polarizer-Le Cellier Steakhouse
World Showcase, Epcot

I had to, after reading a little bit on these boards eat at Le Cellier Steakhouse. It was at the time I made my reservation for my vacation and ADR’s the most hotly contested restaurant in DisneyCyberspace. I want to say that the experience for lunch was pretty much awesome. My dining partners included my Great Aunt Barbara and my Great Uncle Ed. These people were very good to me as a child, and I wanted as an adult to thank them properly for everything they had done for me, my sisters and my parents. My Dad nearly died from an horrific construction accident when I was five. Barb and Ed visited with us so mom could go to the hospital, and made sure we had fun. They also gave my mom a job at their flower shop when we were really down on our luck and dad got a bad paying 3rd shift job to pay the bills. They have been Disney lovers as long as I remember, and this was my chance to give back.


The plan was for us to go to Epcot and have early lunch at Le Cellier (what they did not know is we would also be going to Spirit of Aloha for Dinner as well). We opened the restaurant with about 90 other people. Before being seated, we were treated to a vigorous singing of O Canada! in French and English. We were seated in the cool and cave-like dining room , then we were off to the races. This place had wonderful, fast, efficient, and friendly service.


It was a dry day mostly. Barb is diabetic and Eddie has had heart problems in the past. I just didn’t feel like booze. I had a strawberry smoothie and I think Diet Coke was involved somewhere. Lots of water from a fairly warm park day was also consumed.
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I had the French Onion Soup and Uncle Eddie had the cheese-beer soup.
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Both were excellently flavored and served hot. The French onion soup had the kind of croutons that float, not the kind which is baked to the side of the bowl with cheese.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/143.jpg

Pretzel bread rods were served with the meal in a metal cone. These were delicious. Mine was of the whole wheat variety.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/146.jpg

For entreés, I had the New York Strip Steak medium rare with some sort of grilled potato. Uncle Eddie had the Prime Rib Sandwich with steak fries, and Aunt Barbara had a Tomato and Mozzarella Salad.
My steak (I ordered big for lunch because of the dining plan) was perfectly cooked and tender. It was seasoned correctly, and the sides were just the right size. Everything was hot and delicious. Uncle Ed’s Prime Rib sandwich magically disappeared and Aunt Barb’s Tomato-Mozz Salad, according to her, was to die for.

Not wanting to lose any value in my dining plan, I opted for dessert , as did my dining companions. I chose the S’more, Uncle Ed-Chocolate Mousse, Aunt Barb-Diabetic Chocolate Mousse.
I was disappointed in my S’more. It was just too much, too chewy, not warm, and there was a ridiculous amount of multicolored dessert sauces smeared all over the plate that had no bearing on the plate composition.
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The Chocolate Mousse had a playful presentation and was delicious. The diabetic Chocolate Mousse was a masterpiece for the eye and the palate. This was the only special request dining of the week, and it was pulled off flawlessly.

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I paid the bill and tipped handsomely for fantastic above and beyond service. We rolled out of their stuffed. Everything was so good, I forgave the sub-par S’more. At only one dining credit, and reasonable cash prices, I recommend this restaurant as a great value. If you are only on the standard dining plan, and not the deluxe, this is a good way to get a “meat fix” without breaking the budget. The wine list was typical Disney stuff aimed to please everyone, including Mickey’s accountants.
Book early, I hear this place fills up quickly.

[tinacaplan]

Fantastic reviews. In fact, they are among the best I've read on the Dis...not sure how I missed them! My husband and I did the DxDDP in February and had a magical dinner at Cali Grill on V-Day, complete with a window seat for Wishes. I actually cried a little when I was sat at the MIckey-confetti covered table.

I also agree with you about Citirico's...was kind of dissapointed all around.

I think I might have been able to write reviews almost as good as yours had I spent the time to take some notes while I was there, but alas, I was too taken by the moment, as it was my first trip as an adult.

Thanks again for the fabulous reviews. I appreciate hearing more than just, this what I ate and it was good. :thumbsup2

[vinotinto]

I have ADRs in September for many of the places you are reviewing. Thanks for all the time writing up your reviews been following them faithfully! :thumbsup2


Pretzel bread rods were served with the meal in a metal cone. These were delicious. Mine was of the whole wheat variety.


I am a little bit of a health nut and like my whole grains. Are the pretzel rods always whole grain or did you have to specifically request it? How about the sugar free chocolate mousse/moose - was that an option on the menu or a special request?

[ChefMickey123]

I have ADRs in September for many of the places you are reviewing. Thanks for all the time writing up your reviews been following them faithfully! :thumbsup2



I am a little bit of a health nut and like my whole grains. Are the pretzel rods always whole grain or did you have to specifically request it? How about the sugar free chocolate mousse/moose - was that an option on the menu or a special request?


Hi-

The pretzels came in several varieties-I am sure if you ask and they have them, they can bring all whole wheat. The sugar free chocolate mousse was what the diabetic dessert was that day. It may be different when you go-just ask what they have sugar free. Have a great trip!

[Singinglizzie]

Wow, thank you for taking the time to review all of your restaurant choices for us! I enjoyed reading them all and the chance to live vicariously through you!

[Sugarglider]

thanks for the detailed reviews - with an eye to where the quality does or doesn't lie! nice to see the pics too!
Let us know next you go so I can eat with you!

[ChefMickey123]

The End-ALL Quickservice and Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show.



First, My brief comments on the QSR Restaurants I patronized randomly


The Flame Tree Barbecue-Animal Kingdom.
Everything tastes better on a Mickey Mouse Paper Plate. Out of the QSR I had, this place was the very best. I had a delicious pulled pork sandwich, a fountain drink and a large portion of fresh fruit with it. It was good barbecue, and I did not expect it to be this good in the parks. I had the joy of dining with my friends, the Kolster’s for this meal, which made it better, and I got a kick out of the secluded eating area and seemingly random condiment stations next to tropical trees. It is quick service, it is quality, and it is not cheap.


Cosmic Rays
I liked the animated muppet-thingy playing the organ, that was fun. Driest hamburger of my life-even loaded with goodies.



Port Orleans Food Court-Riverside.
This place is a hidden delight just down the hall from the lobby of the hotel. Several standard food court stations are available, including an impressive bakery with great cinnamon rolls. The pizza was of the personal size found pretty much everywhere pizza is sold in the parks, with pepperoni and cheese being the main offerings. I patronized this place to use my snack credits and fill up my drink mug.

The Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show
I took my Aunt and Uncle on this one-they loved it and were shocked and amazed. They loved it. It was a pretty good show. Yes it is corny, but the dancing was wonderful. They got the little kids involved and newlyweds/anniversaries/engaged peoples with the show. They tried to represent each island nation of the South Pacific with a dance.
The beverage situation is great-they bring you soft drinks, well wine, and bud lite draft included with the package. Our waiter switched out my ¼ glass of beer for a cold one before I could ask. There is beverage service available while waiting in line-at typical hotel prices, but hey, you’re on vacation. In addition there is a menu of extensive cocktail goodies available in various oddly shaped drinkware.

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Dinner was surprisingly good. I have seen the dinner show food get knocked on this board a lot. Keep in mind-the money is going towards the “show”-not the “dinner”. There was a delightful coconut bread and citrus salad to get us going followed by ribs, roast chicken, broccoli, and coconut rice. We were served family style off of metal-palm leaf serving stands.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/151.jpg

We could have all we wanted. I thought the food was on par with “Boston Market”, and I have had worse food in more expensive dinner theatres.
For dessert, we were served coffee if we wanted it and the servers presented, with much fanfare little chocolate mousse volcanoes replete with dry ice “smoke” coming from the center of the tray. They were served with fruit sauces and were “just enough” to satisfy dessert requirements.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/155.jpg
Now, I must say something about the Spirit of Aloha show venue-the Polynesian picnic area-the people who work serving the dinner are mostly long time employees. They know where their bread is buttered. They have a great shift job, and automatic gratuity included in every check. The service level is impeccable.

Please, do not offer an extra tip or be sly and try to leave it on the table. These folks will not jeopardize their positions for the sake of your five bucks. I am sure they are grateful and flattered, and it is nice for you to want to tip extra, but I witnessed a server chase down a man in her section to give him his cash back. Please don’t put these nice folks in a compromising position. I have heard that they will not accept tips on beverage checks for the fancy island drinks either, but I have no experience in that department.
http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt95/chefjared/158.jpg
I

f you want a great night of fun out for the family or a couple, go to Spirit of Aloha and enjoy. Expect fun and warm feelings, and a cool fire dancing dude. Finally, expect to be fed like family, and not the Queen of England.

It is with a bit of sadness and dismay that I finish my 2009 April restaurant reviews. I have met some wonderful folks on the DIS in the process. I have left my food service career for the ministry since I started on them a year ago. I have found a woman I love. But take heart-for I shall return someday…someday…someday…someday

some


day…

some…day…


AAAAHH!, I’m going back to Disney World with my girlfriend to introduce her to my family in November----AAAAAAHH!---------9Days/8Nights Deluxe Dining Plan-AAAAAHH!-Caribbean Beach Resort---------AAAAHH!---Park Hoppers----Universal to see Harry P. and Friends-----and maybe something that the 7 Dwarfs dug up is involved too.:love: Shhhhhhh. It is a secret.

Pre-trip coming soon.
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

[Disneyfriend]

I just found your incredible dining review and wanted to say:

Thank you!

I think I just enjoyed your dining reviews more than any I have ever had the pleasure of reading on this board. :thumbsup2

You seem like a very nice man. I wish you all the best as you continue with Seminary (I happen to also be Lutheran), and on your upcoming trip with your girlfriend. Please do put your considerable food knowledge and writing expertise to good use again and share another dining report with us! :)

[Fairy Godnana]

I loved your dining reviews! Can't wait till the next review and a picture of what the dwarfs dug up for you!!!!!:love:

[cseca]

...
AAAAHH!, I’m going back to Disney World with my girlfriend to introduce her to my family in November----AAAAAAHH!---------9Days/8Nights Deluxe Dining Plan-AAAAAHH!-Caribbean Beach Resort---------AAAAHH!---Park Hoppers----Universal to see Harry P. and Friends-----and maybe something that the 7 Dwarfs dug up is involved too.:love: Shhhhhhh. It is a secret.

Pre-trip coming soon.
:banana::banana::banana::banana::banana:

Love your reviews... especially your CG review. You have a way with words.

btw, I had to chuckle at your announcement... I introduced DH (before he became DH of course) to the family at Disney as well. I thought it worked out really well. He got to know how crazy we are and they got to know how cool and calm he is... :lmao:
I hope your trip will be as magical as ours. We even tied the knot at Disney... yeah... didn't see that one coming did ya? :rotfl:

Good luck on finishing your school!

[bjakmom]

Thank you for your wonderful reviews - I loved reading them!
And CONGRATULATIONS on ALL the wonderful changes in your life - ENJOY!

[chocolateMinnie]

Thanks for posting the photos of the food at SOA - we've booked for October but never seen photos of the food. Do I assume you are sat at long benches sharing with other families?

[ChefMickey123]

Thanks for posting the photos of the food at SOA - we've booked for October but never seen photos of the food. Do I assume you are sat at long benches sharing with other families?

We were sat a tables for two, hooked together in a long line, but spaced for each family group. We also had our own chairs-I hope this helps.

[chocolateMinnie]

We were sat a tables for two, hooked together in a long line, but spaced for each family group. We also had our own chairs-I hope this helps.

thank you. :goodvibes

[Gregowa]

Thank you so much for your wonderful reviews. I have truly enjoyed reading about your WDW dining experiences and your professional opinion of each. I wish you well in your new endeavor as a minister and also congratulations on finding someone special to share life with. I hope the dwarfs dig deep and find something awesome! Please keep us posted here on the Dis - I look forward to reading about your November trip!

[loveDmouse]

Your reviews were outstanding! :thumbsup2:thumbsup2:thumbsup2:yay::yay::yay::yay: :yay::yay::yay:

I will be trying out the California Grill and Jiko based on your reviews. I had been on the fence about both. :goodvibes

[MousekaMaddi]

just lovely...............thank u!:)

[ChefMickey123]

Thank you for reading this thread. I will be starting the pre-trip for my next Deluxe Dining adventure soon. I especially thank all who left a note after they were done reading. It was great encouragement to keep going...;)

[DisneyBoundinDec]

such a wonderful wonderful review! and many many congrats to what may happen in November! :thumbsup2

We are going in November as well and planned on trying one signature restaurant and your review of CG sealed the deal for me.. it will be me, my dh, my 2 boys.. 7 and 3.5 and my inlaws.. it was either CG or Yatchtsman and I think we will enjoy CG more.. especially if we time it around wishes...

if wishes is at 6.. should we go for a 5 ADR? will that give us enough time?

thank you!

[4 Little Bears]

Thank you for sharing! It was perfection!!

[ChefMickey123]

such a wonderful wonderful review! and many many congrats to what may happen in November! :thumbsup2

We are going in November as well and planned on trying one signature restaurant and your review of CG sealed the deal for me.. it will be me, my dh, my 2 boys.. 7 and 3.5 and my inlaws.. it was either CG or Yatchtsman and I think we will enjoy CG more.. especially if we time it around wishes...

if wishes is at 6.. should we go for a 5 ADR? will that give us enough time?

thank you!

I would try to schedule a little after five-5:15 or so. These folks are very efficient, and everybody is trying to do the samy exact thing. You might be facing your check in an hour if you don't order multiple courses.

If you do get done early, ou can always come back to see Wishes on the deck later.

[CMAlumni]

GREAT REVIEWS! Thanks!

[mjamm]

Great reviews...and congrats a little early. Love to hear about dreams coming true in disney no less!:hug:

[ksumn1]

I loved your dining reviews. Very straightforward and honest. You have me rethinking my dining choices for May now. I hope you enjoy your November trip, and that you can "dig up" an appropriate souvenier for you girlfriend from the mines. :rotfl:

Perhaps this trip DH and I will take the kids to a kids club and have an adults only dinner at California Grill, or Jiko, if I can convince DH. Good luck in your studies and I'll be looking for a pre trip and trip report on your Novemebr trip. Best wishes!

[madcam]

Thank you for the wonderful dining reviews. You have given me reason to do one last tweek on my upcoming ADR requests. Congrats on all the new and exciting changes in your life and I cannot wait to read your future reviews!!:goodvibes

[kayrosek]

Thank you so much for your wonderful reviews. We consider ourselves, they are in a large part, responsible for me being able to convince my dear hubby to go back for our anniversary. Congratulations on your upcoming Nov. trip and all that may occur then. I can't wait for more of your reviews.

[milmore104]

LOVED your reviews. My DH and I are the same way when ordering. We get what the chef is making NO SUBS!!! It's how the dish is ment to be. We'll try anything once. Our 9yo DD is the same way. She (as well as us) LOVED Jiko. it was the best dining experince we have had in WDW. And although we have never really given CG a thought we now will be dining there in Dec. Thanks to your tearful review. Thanks again can't wait to read your next review. Have a wonderful trip.

[FloridaFarmer]

Your post is wonderful! Because of it, I learned about some restaurants I had already made ADR's for (and have now canceled...ie Citricos), and you shed new light on places I hadn't even considered (California Grill...just made my ressie there).

I'm not sure what time Wishes is in October during the week, the ressie I made was for 7:45pm on a Tuesday...I was thinking that Wishes was at 9pm? Perhaps that's "wishful" thinking. Either way, it's a time I will keep, it seems to be a tough ADR to get online...

Your sushi plate at CG looks like an enormous assortment of goodies! Do you happen to recall what that was on the menu?

[ChefMickey123]

Your post is wonderful! Because of it, I learned about some restaurants I had already made ADR's for (and have now canceled...ie Citricos), and you shed new light on places I hadn't even considered (California Grill...just made my ressie there)

I'm not sure what time Wishes is in October during the week, the ressie I made was for 7:45pm on a Tuesday...I was thinking that Wishes was at 9pm? Perhaps that's "wishful" thinking. Either way, it's a time I will keep, it seems to be a tough ADR to get online...

Your sushi plate at CG looks like an enormous assortment of goodies! Do you happen to recall what that was on the menu?.

Hi, the best way to score the Wishes ressie is to get up at the crack of dawn 180 days from your arrival and program the wdw-dine number into your phone and dial at exactly 07:00est. While on the phone, ask what time Wishes is that night. They know. Try to get in there up to one hour before Wishes-don't be too picky, and be prepared to sit at the bar for a minute or two before being seated. Everybody is trying to see the fireworks and eat. Since you are within 180 days, keep calling until you get what you want-people do occasionally cancel.


As far as the menu is concerned, allears.net keeps may up to date menus, for the most recent selections (they are dated) check there. Disney Dining on the Web no also posts menus. They are seasonal at Cali Grille, and that huge sushi platter was for a table of 8, they ordered two of them and they were 200 bucks a piece. I had the snake in the grass roll (BBW Eel and Tempura Shrimp)-it was delicious.

Hope this helps!

[Mona503]

ChefMickey, I very much enjoyed reading about your dining experiences. It was nice to get a more in-depth perspective from someone actually in the restaurant biz. I have never been to DisneyWorld, but have been to DisneyLand a lot. My DH and I are planning a trip for 2 years from now. It seems like an eternity. I can't wait to try some of the restaurants that you reviewed. Thank you for taking the time to write this all up. :)

[AppleSister1]

Hi ChefMickey!

I just found this thread and read it all the way through! Wonderful, wonderful reviews, and happy especially to see your review of the Brown Derby. We have had many, many relaxing, slower paced and delicious meals there, and I'm always stumped by negative reviews.

Congrats on all the changes in your life. I am anxiously awaiting your next report. Can't wait to hear your plans for the upcoming trip!

[ChefMickey123]

Hi ChefMickey!

I just found this thread and read it all the way through! Wonderful, wonderful reviews, and happy especially to see your review of the Brown Derby. We have had many, many relaxing, slower paced and delicious meals there, and I'm always stumped by negative reviews.

Congrats on all the changes in your life. I am anxiously awaiting your next report. Can't wait to hear your plans for the upcoming trip!

Thanks for your kind comments and reading through. The Brown Derby is a wonderful, relaxing experience. The place is based on the 2-hour, 2-martini lunch of yesteryear. The lobby is breezy, the dining room, dark and cool, the soup-piping hot, and the gin-ice cold. If you (and the children) with you can appreciate that-you're in for a time. If someone is trying to squeeze their dining dime hard and play beat the clock on a one-park-one day marathon-probably not a good idea. I felt like a movie star while I was there.

My next round of dining plans is now posted as a pre-trip in this section. The Derby is not on the list, not because of the quality of the food or experience-but because GF really wanted to do 50's Primetime the day we are in the Studios (or whatever the place is called these days).