Overhyped Disney Restaurant Tour Live From Kidani Village 8/29-9/7 [Archive] - The DIS Discussion Forums

TDC Nala

08-22-2009, 06:16 PM

This was actually just a Labor Day weekend trip until Disney decided to give me 80 bucks to spend on my birthday, so it’s now 9 nights (had to extend trip to include birthday). Unfortunately I can’t spend it on food, because there will be massive amounts of food involved. I don’t eat very much at home, so I eat on vacation.

I will have 9 nights worth of food, enough for 1 night at Animal Kingdom Lodge and 8 at Animal Kingdom Villas on points. This is a food picture review, so maybe it doesn’t matter that there won’t be any cool photos of animals from my rooms – I’m standard view all the way. The only animal photos will probably be of the ones that are cooked and served on plates with sauce.

If I end up going other places with friends, then some of the places I actually booked are going to drop off the schedule.

It’s Overhyped because I went crazy with the online reservations and ended up being able to book some of the most popular Disney restaurants. Most of them are places I haven’t been to in years because I don’t really recall them being all that and a bag of chips, and you can’t get into them now anyway unless you get up at stupid o’clock to call Disney Dining and hit redial a lot – which these restaurants are not worth – or you get lucky playing around with the online reservation system.

The Overhyped category of my reservations would include Le Cellier, Coral Reef, California Grill (the one place in this category I’ve been to in the last 3 to 5 years – I was last there in March) and ‘Ohana.

The Underhyped: Jiko (First Thursday Dinner Series, plus regular menu on another night if they’ll let me in without a reservation), Flying Fish

The Unhyped: Sanaa, Brown Derby, Kouzzina (don’t have a reservation there, planning to drop in) and Tchoup Chop (which is at Universal so it’s not surprising that it would be unhyped)

Plus a couple of myriad counter services. I’m on the quick service dining plan for the first night (non-DVC) only, so there will be two counter service meals at the least. I am not using any dining plan with the longer DVC stay. You better believe it – August/September and I am not on free dining like everybody else. Maybe there will be a couple of random extra TS if I am hungry enough and can get into any. I gotta love touring without a dining plan.

There shalt be no food at Disney that thou not takest food porn. I’ve also implemented the unpatented

Simpsons Pictoral Rating System

to rate food items. And some booze items.

The “Full Monty Burns” will designate excellent food. (For my taste it’s going to have to be somewhat unusual and have a great deal of flavor to rate a Full Monty.)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

The “Lisa” designates food which is good and nice, but doesn’t have whatever extra is needed to earn a Full Monty.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The “Ned” is for just okay. I can’t call it good, but it’s not bad either. It’s okely dokely, neighbor.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg

“Release the Hounds” means that wild dogs should be set upon whoever allowed this dish to be served.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/releasethehounds.jpg

I’ve been eating at Disney for 10 years now and can recall only about 3 or 4 items that would have earned “Release the Hounds” so I think at this point I will expect to issue a few Montys, lots of Lisas, some Neds and hopefully no Release the Hounds. The Simpsons Rating System as used in this thread reflects my taste and my taste only. Your opinions and interest regarding any individual food item may vary. Not sold in stores.

I’m going to post as live as I can get it. The first night I am not on a DVC reservation and don’t have free internet, so the first day’s food porn won’t be up till the second day at the earliest. I used to spend every night out at Pleasure Island till the wee hours BUT NOOOOooooooooooooo, not this time. So there may be enough time for me to post each night’s food. Believe me, I’d rather be at the Adventurers Club. :sad1:

stitchineeyore

08-22-2009, 06:24 PM

When's your B-Day? DH and I are going Sept. 1-9 for my birthday trip. The day itself is the 6th. And I'd rather be at the Adventurer's Club, too. Kungaloosh!:cake:

TDC Nala

08-22-2009, 06:29 PM

The actual birthday is August 30. I've got a reservation at Flying Fish. Will miss the Club terribly. My last birthday was the last time they had chairs in the salon and tables in the library...

BriarRosie

08-22-2009, 06:57 PM

The only animal photos will probably be of the ones that are cooked and served on plates with sauce.

:rotfl2: Bwahahaha! I wonder if people who eat at Sanaa look out the huge window overlooking the savannah and wonder if they can pick out a wildebeest for dinner. "That one sure looks tasty. The little one in the corner doesn't look to have enough meat on him."

There shalt be no food at Disney that thou not takest food porn. I’ve also implemented the unpatented

Simpsons Pictoral Rating System

to rate food items. And some booze items.

The “Full Monty Burns” will designate excellent food. (For my taste it’s going to have to be somewhat unusual and have a great deal of flavor to rate a Full Monty.)

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

The “Lisa” designates food which is good and nice, but doesn’t have whatever extra is needed to earn a Full Monty.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The “Ned” is for just okay. I can’t call it good, but it’s not bad either. It’s okely dokely, neighbor.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg

“Release the Hounds” means that wild dogs should be set upon whoever allowed this dish to be served.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/releasethehounds.jpg

I’ve been eating at Disney for 10 years now and can recall only about 3 or 4 items that would have earned “Release the Hounds” so I think at this point I will expect to issue a few Montys, lots of Lisas, some Neds and hopefully no Release the Hounds. The Simpsons Rating System as used in this thread reflects my taste and my taste only. Your opinions and interest regarding any individual food item may vary. Not sold in stores.

I’m going to post as live as I can get it. The first night I am not on a DVC reservation and don’t have free internet, so the first day’s food porn won’t be up till the second day at the earliest. I used to spend every night out at Pleasure Island till the wee hours BUT NOOOOooooooooooooo, not this time. So there may be enough time for me to post each night’s food. Believe me, I’d rather be at the Adventurers Club. :sad1:

I am so looking forward to the Simpsons Rating System. When I read "The Full Monty", I had visions of Bart mooning someone. ;) I can't believe you're actually committed to doing this. I'm blaming Kevin Lansbury for that. :mad:

TigerKat

08-22-2009, 07:02 PM

This is going to be great!!!!:cool1: Can't wait for Tchoup Chop review, I'm really excited to be going there for the first time in October!

kabuki

08-22-2009, 07:05 PM

Woo Hoo! Can't wait!:banana:

TDC Nala

08-22-2009, 07:38 PM

:rotfl2: Bwahahaha! I wonder if people who eat at Sanaa look out the huge window overlooking the savannah and wonder if they can pick out a wildebeest for dinner. "That one sure looks tasty. The little one in the corner doesn't look to have enough meat on him."

more like the hyena in the Lion King, "I can't stand it! I gotta have a wildebeest!"

oybolshoi

08-22-2009, 08:01 PM

Excellent!

Tchoup Chop is terrific ... or at least it was the last time we dined there, so I hope you enjoy it. It's a beautiful restaurant.

Have a great trip and happy early birthday!

*KeepMovingForward*

08-22-2009, 08:14 PM

Looks like its going to be a great TR. Love your rating system. ;)

Shenanigoat

08-22-2009, 08:52 PM

I'm looking forward to all your reviews, and am especially interested in Kouzzina.

Big :grouphug: for Adventurers Club.:sad1:

donaldtutter

08-22-2009, 08:57 PM

Awesome rating system!!!;)

hmgray95

08-22-2009, 09:03 PM

Looking forward to your reviews Catherine!

PNO4TE

08-22-2009, 10:13 PM

Looks good so far, Catherine. Love your rating system. I look forward to your updates! :)

Sandy321

08-22-2009, 10:19 PM

more like the hyena in the Lion King, "I can't stand it! I gotta have a wildebeest!"

:rotfl2: Great Rating System!

cant wait!! Congrats, and early BIRTHDAY wishes!!

Knowing you will take note of all these rumors running around about the free dining and all!! (please if you think about it - will you take pictures of the chairs at MK Pecos Bill etc - the rumors about eliminating chairs for stools!!)

TDC Nala

08-22-2009, 10:23 PM

I'll try - I don't ever eat at Pecos Bill but I could walk through there... and I'm not on free dining or any dining plan except one night of the QSDP so I might not find out much about dining plan stuff.

medicgirl911

08-22-2009, 11:13 PM

:lmao: Love your rating system!!! Can't wait to hear all about it! Our days will overlap by a few, we are going to be in the World 8/26-9/2
Happy Early B-day!

ChelleinNC

08-22-2009, 11:30 PM

Another Friendie along for the ride popcorn::

redzinner

08-23-2009, 07:43 AM

MickeyNicki

08-23-2009, 08:12 AM

Sounds like a fantastic trip with alot of great restaurants lined up...Happy Early Birthday, hope you have a wonderful vacation!

whogirl'smom

08-23-2009, 08:14 AM

This should be good! "stupid o'clock" :rotfl2:

TDC Nala

08-23-2009, 09:12 AM

susan514

08-23-2009, 10:43 AM

Bring it on!!!!:surfweb:

disneyfav4ever

08-23-2009, 11:53 AM

Looking foward to your reviews.

I'm wondering which dishes you've had in the past that earned the "release the hounds" rating?

TDC Nala

08-23-2009, 01:29 PM

Looking foward to your reviews.

I'm wondering which dishes you've had in the past that earned the "release the hounds" rating?

Here is what I can remember:

1) Pizza at Concourse Steakhouse. How do you ruin pizza?

2) Worst mojito ever at the Outer Rim Lounge, Contemporary. That was back when they were using Monin syrups to flavor everything.

3) Chicken schwarma wrap at Tangierine Cafe in December. These are good, but not when they are served ice cold. They'll get another chance though.

4) Parts (but not all) of the buffet at 1900 Park Fare. Will not be going back there, ever.

5) Tony's Town Square. And I don't even remember what I ordered.

Also have third-party info that the chicken bleu sandwich at the ABC Commissary may be release-the-hounds worthy.

eventamy

08-23-2009, 01:32 PM

Count me in! Love the rating system!

medicgirl911

08-23-2009, 02:31 PM

DLo

08-23-2009, 02:42 PM

Love , love , love the rating system. Hope you have a great birthday. Can't wait for the reviews.

D&R love Disney

08-23-2009, 02:56 PM

Great rating system! I love doing Disney over Labor Day weekend!

disneyfav4ever

08-23-2009, 03:07 PM

1) Pizza at Concourse Steakhouse. How do you ruin pizza?Disney seems to do a pretty good job of messing up pizza. The one thing I absolutly hated on all my trips to Disney was pizza at the All Stars food court. I don't remember liking Pizzafaria pizza that much either, but that was over ten years ago.

TDC Nala

08-23-2009, 06:26 PM

The food court/CS pizza isn't great, but it's edible. It'd get an okely-dokely if I ate any on this trip which I am not planning to do. The Concourse pizza, frankly, sucked.

whogirl'smom

08-23-2009, 07:22 PM

I so agree with you about 1900 Park Fare (dinner). Now breakfast was a different story.

TDC Nala

08-23-2009, 07:34 PM

you're right - it was dinner. I very rarely eat breakfast so you won't see a lot of breakfast reviews here, if any. My friend who will be staying with me for a couple of nights is very intrigued by the room service breakfast at Kidani so maybe you will see that one.

Jeanieblue114

08-23-2009, 08:05 PM

That term was stolen from the cruise director on the Magic who was telling a theaterful of people about a change in the immigration policies and how he was sure we were all glad we didn't have to get up at "stupid o'clock" to do immigration checks before going ashore in St. Thomas. It sounded better in his Australian accent, but then most everything did.

NOT being a morning person, I may have to add this one to my vocabulary. I'm currently stuck with the phrase "*sscrack of dawn"

BTW, subscribing. I'm new to the Dis, but from what I've seen of your comments, we have the same ideas on dining and the world.

Your report should be inspiring. I'll be there sept. 29-oct.4 with the OKW upgrade :banana: and the free dining. But, I think I'm the only person on the planet who is just used to having dining freedom (with 35 trips) and the idea of having these credits and rules, and WAY too much food, etc. just stresses me out. But, I'm gonna give it an honest go and see how things roll. The main thing is that it will inspire me to ATTEMPT a Food TR. IF I can figure out how to do all these posts and pics and everything on the Dis (there are a lot of buttons around here ya know). Like I said, I'm new.
So, thanks for the TR inspiration!:cheer2:

catne

08-23-2009, 09:10 PM

Yeah, September food reports by Birthday girls. Love your rating system...fun, fun, fun.

Happy Birthday...VIRGOS ROCK!

jeminni

08-23-2009, 09:50 PM

I'm in. This is going to be a great report.:goodvibes

onelilspark

08-24-2009, 08:10 AM

The only animal photos will probably be of the ones that are cooked and served on plates with sauce.

:rotfl: I'm in.

scojos

08-24-2009, 08:47 AM

:surfweb:popcorn::
yes im in too...

ljcrochet

08-24-2009, 09:31 AM

I love your rating systems. Can't wait to read your reviews

cdtommie

08-24-2009, 10:54 AM

TDC Nala, have a great birthday trip! We will also be at the world later this week on the DxDP for five nights (doing Citrico's, FF, Jiko, CG and AP).

TDC Nala

08-24-2009, 12:28 PM

TDC Nala, have a great birthday trip! We will also be at the world later this week on the DxDP for five nights (doing Citrico's, FF, Jiko, CG and AP).

Have fun and thanks for the beer advice. You'll get credit.

I love all those restaurants. This trip I have FF, Jiko and CG and will hit Citricos on the next trip, it's the one place my mom asked to go on her food & wine trip.

A&A'sGrammy

08-24-2009, 09:30 PM

I'm also in.....................can't wait to hear it all!!!

bangzoom6877

08-24-2009, 10:36 PM

Happy early birthday! :cake: :hug:

I'm in! I am looking forward to your reviews and love your rating system!! :lmao:

amandelba

08-25-2009, 04:21 PM

Big Simpsons fan here. I'm in.

yakkin' yeti

08-26-2009, 04:31 PM

Delurking to say I love your ratings system. Is it wrong that I'm kind of hoping you get one chance to Release the Hounds?

bangzoom6877

08-26-2009, 04:59 PM

Delurking to say I love your ratings system. Is it wrong that I'm kind of hoping you get one chance to Release the Hounds?

LOL, I was thinking the same thing! :lmao:

BriarRosie

08-26-2009, 06:22 PM

Delurking to say I love your ratings system. Is it wrong that I'm kind of hoping you get one chance to Release the Hounds?

LOL, I was thinking the same thing! :lmao:

But then you'd be condemning Catherine to have bad food! The horror! :scared1: That is so wrong on a few different levels. Evil. :laughing:

bangzoom6877

08-26-2009, 09:09 PM

But then you'd be condemning Catherine to have bad food! The horror! :scared1: That is so wrong on a few different levels. Evil. :laughing:

True, I don't want her to have bad food!

OK, I am changing my answer....I hope to see LOTS of full monty ratings!!!! :)

TDC Nala

08-27-2009, 08:33 AM

I do hope I don't have to release the hounds - while I don't have to eat the food I do still have to pay for it...

Here's hoping I get to use Monty Burns a lot.

TheDISneyFamily

08-27-2009, 10:05 AM

Happy early Birthday! :yay: I hope you have a wonderful trip! :goodvibes I'll be waiting to see all of the tasty food porn! :surfweb:

Cheers!
Michelle

P.S. Not sure if you know about this...

Orlando Magical Dining Month : Sept 1-30 (http://www.orlandoinfo.com/magicaldining/results.cfm)

...I thought I'd post it since you mentioned you were going to Tchoup Chop.

Sandy321

08-27-2009, 10:38 AM

It wont be long now!!

:wizard: for the full Monty!! ( :rotfl2: your rating system cracks me up!)

TDC Nala

08-27-2009, 04:13 PM

Well I did for a few minutes consider booking the Wishes Dessert Party on my birthday now that it has been extended, but apparently that event does not coexist with the Sunday Tomorrowland Terrace buffet dinner. Maybe another night. It's overhyped enough.

eliza61

08-27-2009, 04:27 PM

TDC Nala

08-27-2009, 04:34 PM

Le Cellier is a definite " Ned". This has got to be the most overhype restaurant on the planet. The steaks are in no way worth the hype. The cheese soup is good but I don't go to a steak house for soup.

I did have one "release the hounds" for Tony's town square.
How in the world can this be called italian?? I'm not Italian and I think I'm personally insulted for the entire country and it's descendants. Can we say Franco American...

I did have one Full Monty burns. That was at Wolfgang puck. Food was excellent. Very flavorful (not salty which is what disney seems to think flavor means) hot and just downright tasty. loved it

I'm not going to Le Cellier for steak. I don't order steak in restaurants. I intend to eat *gasp* the duck appetizer and a big honkin piece of chocolate whiskey cake. I hope it is at least a Lisa for what that joint costs.

I dont' do Tonys, the hounds have been there already. And I have Puck Cafe (I assume you meant the cafe) booked in October, not on this trip. This trip, you might see the WP Express pop up.

The thing I liked most about the WP Cafe is for some reason they once gave my party of adults a children's placemat with a game on it called "Make as many three or four letter words as you can out of the letters in 'Wolfgang Puck.'" Yep, we got some words out of that.

katepass72

08-27-2009, 04:41 PM

This has got to be the greatest rating system ever invented . . .can't wait to get the reports!popcorn::

bangzoom6877

08-28-2009, 09:06 AM

Le Cellier is a definite " Ned". This has got to be the most overhype restaurant on the planet. The steaks are in no way worth the hype. The cheese soup is good but I don't go to a steak house for soup.

I did have one "release the hounds" for Tony's town square.
How in the world can this be called italian?? I'm not Italian and I think I'm personally insulted for the entire country and it's descendants. Can we say Franco American...

I did have one Full Monty burns. That was at Wolfgang puck. Food was excellent. Very flavorful (not salty which is what disney seems to think flavor means) hot and just downright tasty. loved it

I have never been to Le Cellier, but the reports I have read mainly rave about the soup and the pretzel bread. I remember having delicious pretzel bread last July in Biergarten, AND we loved ALL the food we had from the buffet! The entertainment at dinner was also really nice. I also don't go to a steakhouse for the soup, and I certainly don't go to a steakhouse for the bread!!

TDC Nala

08-28-2009, 07:23 PM

OK, I'm now officially on vacation. Probably won't be updating until at least Sunday when I move to Kidani and get free internet in the room. But I will have food available to post by then. Cheers!

bangzoom6877

08-28-2009, 08:12 PM

OK, I'm now officially on vacation. Probably won't be updating until at least Sunday when I move to Kidani and get free internet in the room. But I will have food available to post by then. Cheers!

I envy you...wish I was at WDW right now too! Unfortunately for me, the closest I will get to WDW before next July's trip is this coming Monday's Doorway to Dreams for the DVC in Long Island...looking forward to seeing Mickey and Minnie and the looks on my sons' faces (we are surprising them...we are telling them we are going out to dinner).

Enjoy your vacation, enjoy your birthday, and I am looking forward to your reviews.

tink1957

08-28-2009, 08:36 PM

The thing I liked most about the WP Cafe is for some reason they once gave my party of adults a children's placemat with a game on it called "Make as many three or four letter words as you can out of the letters in 'Wolfgang Puck.'" Yep, we got some words out of that.

:rotfl::lmao::rotfl2:I can only imagine......

Wishing you a :bday: hope you have a great trip & eat a Dole Whip for me.

PNO4TE

08-28-2009, 09:03 PM

disneyfav4ever

08-28-2009, 09:44 PM

I hope you have a great trip, and Happy Birthday!

jeminni

08-28-2009, 10:07 PM

I'm not going to Le Cellier for steak. I don't order steak in restaurants. I intend to eat *gasp* the duck appetizer and a big honkin piece of chocolate whiskey cake. I hope it is at least a Lisa for what that joint costs.

I dont' do Tonys, the hounds have been there already. And I have Puck Cafe (I assume you meant the cafe) booked in October, not on this trip. This trip, you might see the WP Express pop up.

The thing I liked most about the WP Cafe is for some reason they once gave my party of adults a children's placemat with a game on it called "Make as many three or four letter words as you can out of the letters in 'Wolfgang Puck.'" Yep, we got some words out of that.

:rotfl: I love it :lmao:

Have a magical trip Catherine and a great birthday. Looking forward to your reviews. :goodvibes

oybolshoi

08-29-2009, 01:01 AM

Have a great trip and Happy Birthday! :goodvibes

Shenanigoat

08-29-2009, 01:39 AM

Happy Birthday, and safe traveling!

jenjolt

08-29-2009, 08:36 AM

I love live reports...so I'm definitely signing in! Can't wait to hear all your reviews!! What a great rating system you have!! Simply Brilliant!!!

Hope you have a great birthday trip!!!

*KeepMovingForward*

08-29-2009, 09:11 AM

Have a great trip & Happy Early Birthday! party:

hmgray95

08-29-2009, 12:55 PM

Have a great trip Catherine!

BriarRosie

08-29-2009, 01:51 PM

Bon Voyage!

I'll save the happy birthday for Sunday. ;)

ChelleinNC

08-29-2009, 02:17 PM

Safe travels and can't wait till the food porn starts :cool1:

TigerKat

08-29-2009, 05:32 PM

Have a great trip Catherine and have an awesome birthday!!!!!party:

TheDISneyFamily

08-30-2009, 08:29 AM

Are you there yet? Are you there yet? Are you there yet? (Can you tell I'm excited for the live foodie reporting to start?! :lmao:)

:yay: HAPPY BIRTHDAY! :yay:

bangzoom6877

08-30-2009, 08:52 AM

Happy Birthday to you! :cake:

MickeyNicki

08-30-2009, 09:00 AM

Happy Birthday, have a safe and wonderful trip, eat lots...its all calorie free in WDW!

jenjolt

08-30-2009, 09:04 AM

Hope you have a magical birthday!!! Enjoy your trip to Disney!!!!

DLo

08-30-2009, 09:19 AM

Happy Birthday! Can't wait for your reviews!!!! Have a magical trip!

oybolshoi

08-30-2009, 10:40 AM

PNO4TE

08-30-2009, 11:55 AM

Catherine...

http://www.zwani.com/graphics/happy_birthday/images/367.gif

Eat, Drink and Be Merry!

BriarRosie

08-30-2009, 05:43 PM

Happy Birthday, Catherine!

:bday: :cake: :bday: :cake:

Sandy321

08-30-2009, 05:54 PM

:dance3::dance3:Adding my Birthday Wishes!! :dance3::dance3:

Hope you spend your birthday card on YOU, and something completely FUN!!

:wizard:
Hope it was magical!!

robinm1215

08-30-2009, 09:02 PM

Happy Birthday Catherine! Hope you're having a wonderful time. Can't wait for your reviews to start:goodvibes

ChelleinNC

08-30-2009, 09:20 PM

Hope you have a great Birthday Week! 1 day is not enough time to celebrate properly :goodvibes

maedelken

08-30-2009, 11:06 PM

Happy Birthday! Enjoy your trip!

TDC Nala

08-31-2009, 01:09 AM

TDC Nala

08-31-2009, 01:37 AM

Sunday, August 30

Wolfgang Puck Express

Falling down on the job, in trying to catch up with my friends and their cute little son who will be 2 in a few weeks, I did not take a photo of the Wolfgang Puck barbecue chicken pizza and crème brulee. But now a word about the dining plan.

The lunch rang up as over $21. Yesterday’s lunch at Tangierine Café was about $15 with tax, more if you include the baklava. The mug cost $13 or so. Plus snacks – one Diet Coke ($2.50) and one Mickey peanut butter cup from Goofy’s at DTD ($3.95). Basic rounded off math for the two days: around $55. Cost for the one night on the plan: $29.99. Problem I had with having a dining plan: I wanted to try the food at Cava del Tequila but they didn’t take the dining plan so I had to eat at Tangierine. I can go back to Cava but if I were on the dining plan for the whole trip (which I’m not) I couldn’t do that most likely – I’d be sticking to dining plan places. Plus, huge lunch at Wolfie’s means that half the Flying Fish dinner now reposes in my little refrigerator in my Kidani studio.

I did like the pizza, but it was sort of messy. The chicken also wasn’t all that tasty, it seemed like small and sort of dry pieces. Not like I remember Puck’s pizzas. I should have ordered my favorite spicy chicken pizza but the dining plan rears ugly head again – the barbecue chicken cost more than the spicy chicken so I went for the dining plan maximization. I like Puck’s but I should stick with my favorites. The crème brulee wasn’t bad but Flying Fish’s was a lot better. I will give Puck’s a Ned for the experience.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg

Bellevue Lounge sangria
Nice to come in from the heat and drink this before dinner. Definite Lisa.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0569.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Flying Fish

3-wine flight – pinot noir
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0570.jpg

Just for photography’s sake.

Fresh Mozzarella di Bufala, “Ugli Ripe” Yellow Beefsteak and Tiny Heirloom Tomatoes
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0571.jpg
This is not ugly at all. In fact if I am going to pay $15 for some cheese and tomatoes these are really good cheese and tomatoes. Full Monty
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Porcini and Herb Crusted Epcot Land Pavilion Striped Bass, Truffle-laced Potato Puree, Young Carrots, Alba Mushrooms, Truffle and Port Wine Reduction “Agrodolce”
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0573.jpg

Yep. It gets the Full Monty too. It seems a shame to not finish it, except that it’s going to be really cool to have truffle mashed potatoes for breakfast.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Birthday White Chocolate and Vanilla Crème Brulee
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0574.jpg
It’s a crème brulee birthday. This was brought to me although I didn’t order dessert. I did eat it all – it was too good to leave any. The chocolate birthday resides in my fridge in a different box from the bit of fish and potatoes (and one carrot) I brought home. Trifecta of Montys.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Next up: Brown Derby lunch, California Grill dinner

iluvpluto27

08-31-2009, 02:32 AM

Really enjoying your reviews. Flying fish looks fab, I love the scallops there but the sea bass looks fantastic as well. I really like the sound of the passion fruit margarita, we'll definitely have to stop in there for a drink.

BriarRosie

08-31-2009, 02:41 AM

First off, many thanks for all the birthday wishes posted here.

Without further ado, live from Kidani Village

Saturday, August 29

Tangierine Café

Went here at about 4:30 pm to spend a credit on the quick service dining. There wasn’t a lot of action going on in there which may be why the three girls behind the counter were more interested in texting someone on a cell phone than taking orders. When they actually ask you to wait while they read a text I would hope there isn’t a line waiting to get through. If I were reviewing service I might be tempted to sic the hounds on them. But it’s all about the food.

I would have released the hounds on them. Or at least ask them if those text messages were of vital importance to ensuring world peace. :rolleyes:

On the dining plan you get an entrée, drink and dessert. Entrée of choice:

Mediterranean Sliders Combo

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0558.jpg
3 mini pitas with chicken, felafel and lamb with lettuce and onions with yogurt sauce, plus sides of hummus, lentil salad and tabbouleh. This is actually rather good. Came on the dining plan with a big honking Diet Coke (not sure if it’s standard DDP procedure to include such a huge drink) and a slice of baklava. The baklava tastes good, but either there is too much liquid on it or it doesn’t hold up in the Florida humidity, because it’s soggy.

Meal rating:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

A little more spice in the food (I know, Disney won’t do it) and it would have made a stab at the Full Monty. Maybe having some hot sauce available.

I'm so glad you tried those! I thought they looked good, and they'd probably get a full Monty for me, since I'm not all about the hot sauce.

La Cava del Tequila

Awhile back I looked up the name to see if it translates to Cave of Tequila. According to the dictionaries it’s more like Excavation or Ditch of Tequila. There was another meaning – wine cellar. That’s probably closer to what was intended.

This place just opened today and features tequila shots, tequila specialties, tequila flights, tequila mockingbird, whatever. They’ve also got food. I did not try the food because I was full of Morocco. But I did have two specialty margaritas.

The Limon-Jalapeno
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Standard lime juice marg with some jalapeno pepper strips added. Interesting because the pepper permeated the drink, but it had no actual heat. The flavor was intriguing, but I do not know if they remove the ribs from the pepper to strip it of capsiacin or if the lime and tequila somehow act together chemically and leech the heat out. Where is Alton Brown when you need him. At any rate, if there’d been heat to it I might have sprung for a Full Monty, but it’s a good strong Lisa.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

There you go, about the heat again. I think it would have been very interesting to have heat in there, so I can sort of understand the Lisa rating.

The Fruta de Pacion
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This one tastes like passion fruit, which is what they’re going for and I love passion fruit, and the passion fruit foam and cinnamon sugar salt on the rim are fascinating. But it’s sweeter than I like a tequila drink. I will say it’s only a little too sweet as opposed to the fruity frozen margs outside which are way too sweet. Takes it out of the Monty running and earns another Lisa.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Wacky foam. I thought it looked pretty strange. But I would probably want to try it, since I like passion fruit, too. Those are pricey drinks, though.

No extra dinner. The Moroccan platter was a lot of food. It could easily be split by two persons for a lighter meal. Hit the MK with some friends instead of tracking down a restaurant.

Even the Mexican appetizers could be split, if only to try a few of them.

Sunday, August 30

Wolfgang Puck Express

Falling down on the job, in trying to catch up with my friends and their cute little son who will be 2 in a few weeks, I did not take a photo of the Wolfgang Puck barbecue chicken pizza and crème brulee. But now a word about the dining plan.

Just don't let it happen again.

I did like the pizza, but it was sort of messy. The chicken also wasn’t all that tasty, it seemed like small and sort of dry pieces. Not like I remember Puck’s pizzas. I should have ordered my favorite spicy chicken pizza but the dining plan rears ugly head again – the barbecue chicken cost more than the spicy chicken so I went for the dining plan maximization. I like Puck’s but I should stick with my favorites. The crème brulee wasn’t bad but Flying Fish’s was a lot better. I will give Puck’s a Ned for the experience.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg

Oh, you succumbed to Dining Planus Maximus! :eek: I'm sure it was too easy to fall victim to that.

Bellevue Lounge sangria
Nice to come in from the heat and drink this before dinner. Definite Lisa.
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http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Flying Fish

3-wine flight – pinot noir
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Just for photography’s sake.

I'm lumping all the booze together and give you :thumbsup2:thumbsup2 for that.

Fresh Mozzarella di Bufala, “Ugli Ripe” Yellow Beefsteak and Tiny Heirloom Tomatoes
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This is not ugly at all. In fact if I am going to pay $15 for some cheese and tomatoes these are really good cheese and tomatoes. Full Monty
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Those are some pretty tomatoes, not ugli at all. Sure looked good to me.

Porcini and Herb Crusted Epcot Land Pavilion Striped Bass, Truffle-laced Potato Puree, Young Carrots, Alba Mushrooms, Truffle and Port Wine Reduction “Agrodolce”
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0573.jpg

Yep. It gets the Full Monty too. It seems a shame to not finish it, except that it’s going to be really cool to have truffle mashed potatoes for breakfast.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Wow that looked fantastic. And truffle mashed potatoes for breakfast? Cool.

Birthday White Chocolate and Vanilla Crème Brulee
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0574.jpg
It’s a crème brulee birthday. This was brought to me although I didn’t order dessert. I did eat it all – it was too good to leave any. The chocolate birthday resides in my fridge in a different box from the bit of fish and potatoes (and one carrot) I brought home. Trifecta of Montys.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Glad you didn't waste that creme brulee. That would be criminal. I'm happy your birthday dinner rated a full set of Montys. Three-card Monty? :)

Next up: Brown Derby lunch, California Grill dinner

Too much food? Probably not, but I'm looking forward to seeing pics of either sushi or flatbread, if not both.

jenjolt

08-31-2009, 06:22 AM

Great Reviews!! So glad you had an amazing birthday dinner at the Flying Fish!!!

bangzoom6877

08-31-2009, 06:26 AM

Great reviews and photos! I'm happy for you that you got a full set of "Full Montys" for your birthday dinner!

DH and I loved Tangierine Cafe last summer when we went. They did not have the sliders combo back then but we had the shawarma combo so we could have both the chicken and the lamb. It is very filling. We were happy we had an early lunch because we had dinner at Biergarten that night and by then we were hungry again. The sliders combo looks excellent though, and we plan to go back there again on our next trip so I hope they still have it!

La Cava del Tequila looks nice. I love margaritas (it's the only way I can attempt to drink tequila anymore...don't ask! :scared1:) and they look very good and interesting there. Definitely have to make a stop there!

I'm glad you mentioned Belle Vue here. Being DVC members at BWV, we plan to get a drink at Belle Vue here and there.

Flying Fish looks amazing, and a wonderful place to have a celebratory dinner! That sea bass looks delicious.

Wolfgang's is a place we consider having lunch in DTD. I wouldn't order pizza though (too picky about pizza and normally I don't have it on vacation). Their salads and sandwiches look really good from reading their menu though.

I'm enjoying your reviews so far, hope you are having lots of fun, and looking forward to the rest of your reviews!

PNO4TE

08-31-2009, 06:55 AM

What a wonderful thing to have to read first thing this mornimg, Catherine! Sounds like your Birthday Extravaganza is off to a great start. Good food and drink... can't go wrong with either. Or both! :goodbvibes

oybolshoi

08-31-2009, 07:26 AM

Great start to your trip and terrific pictures - thanks for sharing.

I cannot wait to try the Ditch of Tequila ... :rotfl2: ... the drinks look good although I admit that the second one you had - the passionfruit - kinda threw me when I first saw the picture. The foam looked a little gacky from this side of the computer, but that may just be because it's early. ;)

And kudos to Flying Fish for serving you a Full Monty birthday meal! I love the generosity of the wine pours, too. :thumbsup2

Looking forward to more reviews. :goodvibes

TDC Nala

08-31-2009, 08:26 AM

TheDISneyFamily

08-31-2009, 08:29 AM

Outstanding reporting! :thumbsup2 Glad you are having a great time already! :yay: I'm penciling in Flying Fish on my December ADR list as I type. Truffle mashed potatoes & white chocolate crème brulee?! :faint: :cloud9:

Tricia1972

08-31-2009, 08:31 AM

I'm late with your birthday wishes, but it sounds like your birthday dinner was delicious. :thumbsup2

I'm enjoying reading your reviews! Reading about Wolfgang Puck Express has me a little worried about them falling victim to the Dining Plan, maybe they're using lesser ingredients to maximize profit?

ChelleinNC

08-31-2009, 09:03 AM

Sounds like a great start to birthday week :goodvibes

I loved the slider platter when we had it in July, perfect for sharing as we were snacking around the world :thumbsup2

Can't wait to hear about your lunch today!

DLo

08-31-2009, 09:54 AM

Great pics. What kind of camera did you use? what setting? glad you had such a great b'day dinner.

*KeepMovingForward*

08-31-2009, 10:06 AM

Flying Fish looks fabulous. I think I may have to change my dining plans up.

kabuki

08-31-2009, 10:49 AM

Happy Day Late Birthday! Love the reviews and the FULL MONTY! That fish looked amazing and Flying Fish is our Fav. place to go! Can't wait...
Have fun and enjoy your trip. It's great to see someone use the DDP that eats at places like we do! So far I am happy we haven't sprung for it.

D&R love Disney

08-31-2009, 11:10 AM

Happy Belated Birthday :dance3:

I'm loving your reviews, can't wait to try some tequila next week!!!!!

And a big :banana: :banana: :banana: on the Full Monty at FF.

disneyfav4ever

08-31-2009, 11:38 AM

I may need to try that passion fruit margarita when I'm there in October. It looks really good, and I like sweeter drinks.

Shenanigoat

08-31-2009, 01:21 PM

Great looking birthday meal. It's pretty cool to get fish that was swimming around in the Land Pavillion.:thumbsup2

I don't know how I feel about foam on a margarita though.

ImprovGal

08-31-2009, 01:28 PM

Standard lime juice marg with some jalapeno pepper strips added. Interesting because the pepper permeated the drink, but it had no actual heat. The flavor was intriguing, but I do not know if they remove the ribs from the pepper to strip it of capsiacin or if the lime and tequila somehow act together chemically and leech the heat out. Where is Alton Brown when you need him. At any rate, if there’d been heat to it I might have sprung for a Full Monty, but it’s a good strong Lisa.

I'm enjoying the reviews and am really looking forward to going in a couple of days! Hopefully we'll get food good enough to qualify for 2nd or 3rd degree Burns.

I'm not Alton Brown, but I can solve the Case of the Missing Scovilles. It sounds like they removed the white membrane and seeds from the jalapeno and are just using the sliced pepper strips to infuse the margarita. I haven't tried a seeded habanero or scotch bonnet but when you remove the seeds/membrane from jalapenos you get virtually no heat remaining in the pepper (think mild salsa). Tequila isn't really a capsaicin neutralizer and the acid in the lime would intensify what was there.

Sandy321

08-31-2009, 01:36 PM

I'm thinking today won't be too much food - Derby coming up at 11:30 (Lunch with Imagineer) and Ca. Grill won't be till 9:40. I've closed down MK two nights in a row but maybe I will go back over there and actually watch Spectro - when my friends were here we ignored the parade so we could walk onto rides. And I'm off the dining plan. I'm thinking a margarita at the Ditch and a snack at about 5 pm...

:rotfl2: sounds like a sound plan to me!!

How was that Pinot Wine flight btw?

Thanks for getting the $15 tomatoes - lol I've actually been at the Farmer's market and really love heirloom tomatoes - Never been to flying fish - with a FULL set of Full Monty's - I'm thinking I oughta give it a try!! :hippie:

"The Ditch" Tequilla bar!! :rotfl2:

BriarRosie

08-31-2009, 01:55 PM

I'm enjoying the reviews and am really looking forward to going in a couple of days! Hopefully we'll get food good enough to qualify for 2nd or 3rd degree Burns.

I'm not Alton Brown, but I can solve the Case of the Missing Scovilles. It sounds like they removed the white membrane and seeds from the jalapeno and are just using the sliced pepper strips to infuse the margarita. I haven't tried a seeded habanero or scotch bonnet but when you remove the seeds/membrane from jalapenos you get virtually no heat remaining in the pepper (think mild salsa). Tequila isn't really a capsaicin neutralizer and the acid in the lime would intensify what was there.

Thanks for the wonderfully bad pun! I am hoping my involuntary laughter didn't reach outside my cubicle. ;)

And you reminded me of Ted Allen, since I did see the Food Detectives show about hot peppers and how to quench the fire. Ted did say that the seeds and membrane carry the heat on jalapenos. So you're probably right about them removing the hot parts of the pepper. Alcohol did not act as a heat quencher. The only thing that worked as immediate relief was milk or other dairy products. Dairy of any kind supposedly works that way.

onelilspark

08-31-2009, 04:43 PM

Thanks for the wonderfully bad pun! I am hoping my involuntary laughter didn't reach outside my cubicle. ;)

And you reminded me of Ted Allen, since I did see the Food Detectives show about hot peppers and how to quench the fire. Ted did say that the seeds and membrane carry the heat on jalapenos. So you're probably right about them removing the hot parts of the pepper. Alcohol did not act as a heat quencher. The only thing that worked as immediate relief was milk or other dairy products. Dairy of any kind supposedly works that way.

:scratchin Sooo...what you're saying is that they need to make a jalapeno milkshake margarita?? To be able to really use the jalapenos properly and balance the spice? :crazy2: ;)

TDC Nala

08-31-2009, 05:22 PM

Monday, August 31

Lunch with an Imagineer, Brown Derby

Let’s mention the non-food part first. Melissa the imagineer had a mechanical engineering degree, and works in Attractions as an assistant project manager on technical ride systems. She worked most notably on the technical designs and specs for Soarin’ and Toy Story Mania. She even had stories about the Haunted Mansion, which is a favorite ride of hers also. I won’t wreck the experience for the interested by going into detail. If you are a Disney fanatic this is a great way to have lunch and engage in some serious chat about Disney behind the scenes.

The meal you get for signing up is a multi-course lunch at Brown Derby. The first two courses are set:

Soup course: Sweet corn bisque topped with Lump Blue Crab and a Thyme Emulsion
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0576.jpg

Nice light soup with some flavor. Gets a Lisa
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Salad course: Individual Cobb Salad with Finely Chopped Greens, Turkey Breast, Bacon, Egg, Tomatoes, Crumbled Bleu Cheese, Avocado, and Cobb Salad Dressing
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0577.jpg

I asked to have the egg left off mine, as I don’t eat hard-boiled eggs at all. I believe you are supposed to mix this together. It’s good, but a bit too much of a hodgepodge for me. Like someone ran a turkey club sandwich through a woodchipper. Another Lisa
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The entrée I chose is a Spice-rubbed Black Grouper with Sauteed Haricots Verts and Sunchokes, Rainbow Carrot Slaw, and Citrus Butter
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0578.jpg

This was knocking on the door of the Full Monty, but comparison to the Flying Fish made me go back to Lisa.
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The dessert I chose is the Double Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee (yes another crème brulee) with Dark Chocolate Dipped Biscotti.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0579.jpg

It was that or the grapefruit cake, which I am not a fan of. This is a Lisa crème brulee again in comparison with Flying Fish’s brulee from last night.
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Beer: Fin du Monde
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Nice golden ale, good with the fish and salad.
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Sanaa: Cultural Tour

If you’re in the Kidani Village in late afternoon, go down to Sanaa and take the cultural tour. Sanaa is the beautiful new restaurant at the Village. There’s a story behind the way it’s laid out, and behind everything used to decorate it. Two young ladies from South Africa gave me this tour. I was the only person who came down to take it today.

And everyone wanted me to know about the view you could get from the restaurant. Here they are:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0589.jpg
These are the girls. There is one male giraffe out there (neutered, that's why he's in with the girls) but the ladies apparently like to pose for photos.

Yes, there’s food involved. When I finished looking at the restaurant, Angela, one of the chefs, brought out a piece of naan bread and some sauces. She chose cucumber raita, mango chutney and tamarind sauce.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0587.jpg

Angela says they make naan bread by taking a disc of dough and slapping it on the side of an incredibly hot tandoor oven. The bread cooks while stuck to the side of the oven and they use a hook to pull it off when it’s ready. This is why there is a hole in the center of your naan bread.

The mango chutney is sweet and has onion and jalapeno for a little bite. The cucumber raita tastes cool. The Tamarind sauce is spicy, but not hot. Much of the food at Sanaa, Angela says, uses flavorful spices but they don't go much for heat.

I’ll give the breads and sauces a Full Monty, I think it was almost the perfect snack. And it was free.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Not free: the Painted Lemur cocktail. Amarula and tangerine liqueur in a glass swirled with chocolate. Went well with the spicy sauce and bread. It’s hard for me to award the Full Monty to drinks, they’ve got to be something really special. Liked this just fine – it’s a good Lisa drink.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0588.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Later: California Grill

I wish Improvgal really was Alton Brown.

TDC Nala

08-31-2009, 05:54 PM

Someone asked about the camera. It is a three year old Casio Exilim. it actually has a food setting. That is what I use for the food pics.

mefordis

08-31-2009, 06:05 PM

Happy belated birthday! Enjoying your report!

TigerKat

08-31-2009, 07:01 PM

Catherine, I just love seeing reviews of FF, can't wait to go back in October! Your reviews are rocking!:thumbsup2

stitchineeyore

08-31-2009, 08:36 PM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!:cake: This is the BEST rating system ever. May the rest of us lesser mortals use it? DH and I arrive tomorrow for a week. My Birthday! Our dining list is different. If something worth noting turns up, may we use the Simpson System? (Giving total credit to it's creator, of course). Hope everything is still as much fun and we all don't get rained on tomorrow:stitch::eeyore:

DLo

08-31-2009, 09:25 PM

Someone asked about the camera. It is a three year old Casio Exilim. it actually has a food setting. That is what I use for the food pics.

It was me thanks. Maybe if I ever get around to reading the manual for the camera i bought last june I may find I have a food setting ,too. I know I have indoors, firworks, and aquarium but food not so sure.

mhmcduff

08-31-2009, 09:46 PM

hope you are enjoying your mail as I write this- cant wait until the review!

disneymom3

08-31-2009, 10:47 PM

I am loving your report. Your sense of humor has me cracking up!

Shenanigoat

08-31-2009, 11:19 PM

Around what time is the Sanaa tour?

ImprovGal

09-01-2009, 12:33 AM

I wish Improvgal really was Alton Brown.

Um, I feel a little uncomfortable in my workplace.

ImprovGal

09-01-2009, 12:35 AM

It was me thanks. Maybe if I ever get around to reading the manual for the camera i bought last june I may find I have a food setting ,too. I know I have indoors, firworks, and aquarium but food not so sure.

Maybe use the aquarium setting for sushi?

whogirl'smom

09-01-2009, 06:47 AM

Love the review and pictures. The sliders at Tangerine Cafe look very appealing!

TDC Nala

09-01-2009, 08:13 AM

PNO4TE

09-01-2009, 08:27 AM

Hope your pestilence has left and you are feeling better this morning, Catherine.

Sandy321

09-01-2009, 09:18 AM

the Painted Lemur drink!! Its good to see different drinks!

Hope your pestilence is much better today! :thumbsup2

TDC Nala

09-01-2009, 09:37 AM

ireland_nicole

09-01-2009, 09:45 AM

Coming out of lurker status to say, I'm loving this review! Happy Birthday and congrats on the Flying fish dinner; I may be weird, but honestly the worst expensive meal I've ever had at Disney was at Cali Grill (never, ever get the mushroom pasta thingy...it's the worst food I've ever, ever tasted); not to mention they left us sitting at the bar for 2 hours because of a mix up... huh, thought I was over it- but guess not.

Anyway, can't wait to see the aquarium setting!

bangzoom6877

09-01-2009, 10:18 AM

Sorry you weren't feeling well and hope you are doing much better today. Looking forward to your review of Coral Reef...I have a feeling that after that wonderful meal you had at Flying Fish, we will be seeing some more "Lisa" ratings!

hmgray95

09-01-2009, 10:28 AM

Great reviews Catherine!:thumbsup2

Flossbolna

09-01-2009, 11:01 AM

Thanks for the wonderful reviews, I hope you are feeling better today! :goodvibes

I am intrigued by the new tequila bar. Those drinks sound interesting (even if they are a bit pricey...). :rolleyes1

Jeanieblue114

09-01-2009, 11:31 AM

Sorry gang. No California Grill to review. I decided I wasn't feeling well enough to go out there and pig out some more.

Of course in order to get your resort concierge to cancel California Grill for you without your being charged the no-show fee, you need to swear that something terrible has happened. I think they have entries for war, pestilence, death and destruction. I may have gone with "pestilence."

It's possible I could try getting into the lounge there tonight. There aren't any reservations available. Not much pestilence going around.

Lunch today will be at Coral Reef! I will check on that aquarium sushi camera setting. It is sort of ironic that Coral Reef does not have sushi on the menu isn't it?

The Sanaa cultural tour appears to be scheduled daily at 4 PM. Jambo House (the regular AKL) also has one that tours Jiko and Boma.

I was just asking about the AKL Tour options on another thread!
They are no charge correct?
And you can be staying at any resort correct?
Any other details of the tours would be much appreciated.

(we have taken other resort tours, but not these...we would love to do the Jiko/Boma one cause I don't think my family would ever want to actually go eat a meal there and I would still love to see it since AKL is my favorite resort visually).

bangzoom6877

09-01-2009, 11:55 AM

I was just asking about the AKL Tour options on another thread!
They are no charge correct?
And you can be staying at any resort correct?
Any other details of the tours would be much appreciated.

(we have taken other resort tours, but not these...we would love to do the Jiko/Boma one cause I don't think my family would ever want to actually go eat a meal there and I would still love to see it since AKL is my favorite resort visually).

I didn't know you could do one of these tours if you weren't staying at the resort. I would like to know more about them too.

BriarRosie

09-01-2009, 01:42 PM

I can also report that Epcot Land striped bass and truffle mashed potatoes are quite good microwaved for breakfast. :thumbsup2

Going to Epcot - more fish coming up later - is it obvious that I like fish? Maybe another $15 margarita too.

I really hope your fish won't come up later! :scared:

Bummed that you were not feeling up to California Grill. But I'm glad the fancy breakfast went over well. :laughing:

ChelleinNC

09-01-2009, 02:00 PM

Maybe use the aquarium setting for sushi?
:lmao::lmao:

Your lunch with an Imagineer looked/sounds great! I'd love to do that sometime :)

Hope you're feeling better :goodvibes

Ciciwoowoo

09-01-2009, 02:18 PM

Happy late birthday!

I love your reviews... I can just hear Mr. Burns say "excellent" every time I see that pic!!! :lmao:

Shenanigoat

09-01-2009, 02:26 PM

Sorry you missed CA grill:sick: I hope eating with the fishies is fun for you!

Credit Man

09-01-2009, 03:18 PM

Great reviews. Thanks for posting.

AlohaPolynesian

09-01-2009, 04:10 PM

Thanks for the awesome reviews!

TDC Nala

09-01-2009, 11:04 PM

Tuesday September 1

To start off in Dr. Seuss style:

I do not want a crème brulee.
I’ve had one every single day.
I had one at the Flying Fish,
At Wolfgang Puck’s in foil dish,
Brown Derby served me one as well
I think I’m in crème brulee hell.
The motto I will use today
Is “just say NO to crème brulee”

Coral Reef

Before you go to Coral Reef, if you have some time drop into the Seas pavilion and spend some time communing with these fine finny fellows before you have them for lunch.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0594.jpg

This guy is apparently called a French Grunt. I could not hear him through the aquarium wall so I am not sure if he was either grunting or speaking French.

You might even find Nemo, wherever he's been.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/foundnemo.jpg

Coral Reef is really a beautiful restaurant. I will say I have never seen so many little children running through a beautiful restaurant, or climbing up the walls near the aquarium. I think that because there is an aquarium in the restaurant parents become oblivious to the children’s treating the entire place like a playground. No children climbed up on my table but there was a kid behind me who flipped his pizza onto the floor (they brought him another one).

But they did put me on the first level by the tank. Here is my tank view:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0608.jpg

That’s the biggest grouper ever in the lower right corner. They should call him Super Grouper. This tank always reminds me of the fish tank scene in Monty Python's Meaning of Life. "Hey look! Harold's being eaten!"

And then there was the Ocean Floor Show.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0615.jpg

Get a load of this guy. He knew more scuba diving parlor tricks than I thought existed. They're not supposed to have ham in a seafood restaurant.

Because I’ve noted the foodies seem interested in the pour sizes, here is the glass of Fess Parker riesling I got.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0609.jpg

The entrée was the Blackened Catfish served over Pepper Jack Cheese Grits, with Tomato Marmalade and Basil Oil.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0610.jpg

I do like that they did genuinely blacken the fish but would have liked a bit more spice. It’s a well earned Lisa
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Dessert: Almond Gelato with Granola-Marshmallow Cookie and Peaches. The server recommended the crème brulee. No thanks…
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0613.jpg

I liked the gelato. The cookie on the bottom appeared to be made with Honey Bunches of Oats (didn’t look like granola to me – there were flakes) and the biscuit thing on top? It was made with almonds, honey and peaches. I could have eaten 10 of those. The biscuit put the dessert over the top to Full Monty status.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

A very nice and light lunch that fulfills a personal motto: Fish are food AND friends.

Here’s another margarita. This one is the pina (pineapple) and chipotle marg. That is chipotle foam on top. It’s my favorite so far, although it still doesn't knock my socks off, so another Lisa. But I’ve been challenged to come back and try the avocado one so maybe I will get to try the food at the Ditch tomorrow.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0616.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

California Grill

California Grill has a lounge. It’s got a few tables and chairs. If there’s some room in the lounge, you can go up and order from the full menu there.

I love the flatbreads so I stopped by to see if they had a chef’s special one – and they did – so I went up to visit the lounge. Some of the tables are windowside and have the best views. This was my view when I sat down:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0618.jpg

This was my view when the storm came in:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0621.jpg

Servers Jennifer and Rachael take good care of the lounge squatters. You can order whatever you want. So here’s the first order I put in: Sashimi.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0623.jpg

From the left: Yellowfin tuna, salmon and hirosama. Plus seaweed salad, pickled ginger, soy sauce and wasabi. This fish is like buttah.

Full Monty Burns for the raw fish!
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Here is the latest chef’s special flatbread: Roasted Spiced Chicken with Guajillo Peppers, Cotija Cheese, Corn Salsa and Cilantro-Lime Cream.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0625.jpg

Was this good or what. The little dusting of chili on the crust worked, too. Full Monty again
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Dessert? Of course, I'm on vacation. Yes, they had a crème brulee. I ignored it. They also had an item called Fig Delight: Fromage Blanc with Port Poached Fig, Cassis Puree and Fig Sorbet.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0631.jpg

I love figs. This was like the Big Fig Newton goes uptown. AND it had cheese. Full Monty Trifecta
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

And to drink with the Big Fig – The Mount Gay Rum “Extra Old” caught my eye on the cordials and brandies menu. It’s like brandy made from rum. And it’s Extra Old and I just had a birthday.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0630.jpg

Not only that but if you hang around the California Grill Lounge long enough, when the storm clears you can get this view (only clearer, assuming you are there when the window isn't still wet)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0654-1.jpg

Tomorrow: The single most overhyped meal in all of Walt Disney World...

oybolshoi

09-01-2009, 11:22 PM

Your entire day of reviews was ... excellent! From the Dr. Suess ode to brulee to fishie food and friends at Coral Reef to your most scrumptious meal at CA Grill ... it all looked so delicious. :thumbsup2

How was the Mount Gay Rum? Was it like brandy or more like cognac since it was aged? We are always on the alert for new and interesting boozes.

Golf4food

09-01-2009, 11:23 PM

Love the Dr. Seuss, though might I suggest "At Wolfgang Pucks in foil'ed dish" to better with the rythym? :)

I keep hoping to try Coral Reef but DW doesn't do seafood and having all the fish watch her eat steak would probably weird her out, lol. (I'd be eating fish, of course. Fish are food no matter what those silly sharks say.)

PNO4TE

09-01-2009, 11:32 PM

Looks like another great day of food and drink, Catherine!

I had the Blackened Catfish served over Pepper Jack Cheese Grits, with Tomato Marmalade and Basil Oil in December when we were at Coral Reef. I loved it and was happy it wasn't any hotter! Too bad there isn't a way for them to hit the myriad of taste buds that eat in their restaurants.

Enjoy tomorrow!

PNO4TE

09-01-2009, 11:33 PM

I keep hoping to try Coral Reef but DW doesn't do seafood and having all the fish watch her eat steak would probably weird her out, lol. (I'd be eating fish, of course. Fish are food no matter what those silly sharks say.)

My DH doesn't like seafood either and loves the menu at Coral Reef!

Nancy for Disney

09-01-2009, 11:41 PM

Love your reviews and Dr Suess poem. :rotfl:

I too would like to hear more about the The Sanaa cultural tour. This might be a good thing for my free day. The Sanaa is one of the five restaurants I have narrowed down to my one and only TS meal for my next trip.

*KeepMovingForward*

09-01-2009, 11:45 PM

Glad to see a lot of today's food is getting the fully Monty. :cool1:

disneyfav4ever

09-01-2009, 11:55 PM

I am really enjoying your reviews. :goodvibes I may have to add Coral Reef to my list for next year, though it always seems to be hit or miss with me. CA Grill is a definate for me though, I think the next time I go I'm just going to order a bunch of apps.

BriarRosie

09-02-2009, 01:37 AM

Oh man, the Seuss poem rocked. I'm waiting for Creme Brulee haiku next.

Oh congealed you are
Made from eggs, cream and sugar.
Torch it up, baby!

I'll bet you were ready to rip any server a new one if they offered you creme brulee. :laughing: The gelato looked ok to me, but I'm prejudiced towards chocolate above everything else.

I have to try those margaritas. Foam or no foam. I gotta try them.

I thought your Coral Reef entree looked better than a Lisa, but then I don't want overly hot and spicy. But wow, I would say your Tuesday theme could have been "Meals with a View".

The sushi made me go "gah-OOH-gah!", especially the salmon. Salmon is my fave. And the eyeballs popped out more over that flatbread. You had me at cilantro-lime cream. :cloud9:

I thought you turned into Paula Deen and decided to have a stick of butter with your dessert! :scared: So that's cheese? Arte Johnson time: "Verrrrrrrry Interesting."

So tomorrow must be Le Cellier. My money is riding on you ordering seafood.

TDC Nala

09-02-2009, 08:52 AM

Brenda - You are right, the Mount Gay Extra Old is more like cognac. It's a sipping rum. It's actually pretty mellow for rum. Probably what Jack Sparrow has in his mug at the end of the Pirates ride...

The Culinary Tours at Sanaa and AKL are open to anybody whether you're staying at the resort or not. As far as I know they'll do one every day at 4 PM if anybody shows up. You get to taste some food and chat with a chef at both. I don't know if everyone gets their own naan at Sanaa or they're brought out to share - because I'm the only one who did the tour so I got my own naan.

The naan and sauces are great, which I thought I should say before someone comes in here and mentions that they're second to naan.

Sandy321

09-02-2009, 09:38 AM

(stomach loudly growling) your pictures and descriptions are Awesome!!

second to naan:rotfl2:

You took some awesome aquarium photos - does that mean the aquarium setting on the camera works? (I truly must try this!!) :rotfl2: that Coral Reef had ham!!

:rotfl: and what's wrong with Creme Brulle at every meal?? Glad there are other tempting bites for desserts!!

I dont think I'm a "foodie" but I am definately interested in the pour sizes!! :thumbsup2 I noticed last time we were there that esp at California Grill they have pouring 4 glasses from one bottle down to an exact science - esp compared to my town - my town they are way off either tooo short - or very generous!! Plus the menu usually gives you a break on price if you buy a bottle compared to 4 glasses - not at Disney!!

:rolleyes1 Wonder if you should check the prices on wines that are on that Wine and Dine package? No one ever seems to add that on - but we always read posts on whether its worth it -

I'm sure you are not up to doing 'homework" on your birthday vacation!! :rotfl2:

bangzoom6877

09-02-2009, 09:45 AM

TDC Nala

09-02-2009, 10:03 AM

Sandy321

09-02-2009, 10:12 AM

Tours are free. Just show up. They don't say "no children" but I've only seen adults do the culinary tours. I think little kids might be bored.

Sandy - I would never do the wine & dine plan - but then I don't do the dining plan much if at all. I did notice that Sanaa's wine list had several 2 credit wine options but Coral Reef's had only 1 credit wine options (looks like anything over about $50 for a marked-up bottle is a 2 credit option on the regular wine lists.) I order wine by the glass when here so I don't look much at the bottles.

I forgot to mention about the New Zealand sauvignon blanc I had with my sushi and flatbread. I might have a photo of the pour.

I still say YUM!!

ITA with you on the wine and dine plan - and I am totally re-evaluating the dining plan - I am enjoying your reviews!! The mark up in wines is to be expected - it seems like the wine and dine plan is marked up too!!

1 credit wines are in the "below" $50 a bottle range - do you remember what the price of your glass of wines were? (just wondering if my math is still on - 4 glasses of wine per bottle - wine by the glasses are in the $12 - $15 range? per the $50 bottle price range??) Math is not my strong suit!!

One day dh and I must do the California Napa Valley Wine tour!! Right now we do the wine store tours!! :rotfl2:

Shenanigoat

09-02-2009, 01:08 PM

I loved the Ode to Seuss. I don't think I ever realized that Creme Brulee was so prevalent on Disney menus. A few days in and you're already sick of it:lmao:

I hope you get the avacado margarita. I'm taking notes on your ditch adventures:thumbsup2

onelilspark

09-02-2009, 01:59 PM

Do they have a pinneapple margarita without the chipotle stuff on top? Cause I'd love that! ...I'm so excited for $15 margaritas!!! :yay:

Jeanieblue114

09-02-2009, 02:24 PM

Do you think creme brulee would be so popular if they just called it pudding?

Oh, and I love that they made a rice crispy treat out of honey bunches of oats instead of rice crispies at Cali Grill and put it on a fancy dessert!
I do this with random boxes of cereal to use them up and for making a quick treat. I didn't know I could charge 12 bucks a pop for them! I'm billing my Husband.

Jeanieblue114

09-02-2009, 02:29 PM

lvstitch

09-02-2009, 03:19 PM

Loving your reviews...thanks for sharing:thumbsup2

faindrops27

09-02-2009, 05:03 PM

Wow!! How Yummy!! Loving your reviews!! Happy Belated Birthday by the way!!:goodvibes

wdwthanksgiving

09-02-2009, 06:01 PM

second to naan:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:

hmgray95

09-02-2009, 07:55 PM

Wow, a triple full monty! CA Grill looked really yummy....glad you are having some good meals!

TDC Nala

09-02-2009, 11:28 PM

Wednesday, September 2

Sanaa

I tried out the pool bar, but they had only two items on their food menu – club sandwich and caesar salad with tandoori chicken. I thought they used to have more than that. I’d have asked, but it was pouring down rain so I just went to Sanaa for lunch and got a table by the windows that look onto the savanna. There, I was able to take the greatest animal photo ever.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0665.jpg

Is that the world's shortest giraffe or is it an optical illusion? Both, the giraffe is lying down and the ostrich isn't as close to the giraffe as it looks.

Tomato Soup with Paneer Cheese
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Thick tomato soup with little cubes of cheese. Needed a couple more cubes of cheese. The soup was good.
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Sustainable Fish Lunch
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Today’s fish was halibut. For lunch, they put the fish on a piece of naan bread and a bed of greens, and top it with curry sauce and cucumber raita. This is my perfect lunch. The fish was hot and slightly spicy, the sauces were good and there was mint in the greens. It had a lot of flavor. For dinner, they present the fish wrapped in a banana leaf. I might have to try that later. Lunch fish gets the Full Monty

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

La Cava del Tequila

This is a blood orange margarita, yes, with more foam. If you are freaked out by the foam you could ask to have it left off. They just slap it on top of the marg before serving it.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0680.jpg

It’s my favorite so far and I am giving it the Full Monty.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Le Cellier
This is the hot ticket of Walt Disney World. You have to sell your grandmother to get a reservation in this restaurant. You have to find Nemo. You have to know where Walt’s frozen head resides. Anything to get into this place. Even Hitler can't get in. (There's video to prove that one)

It’s a small place and looks more like a cave than the Tequila Ditch. When the kid at the next table has a screaming fit, that fit carries over to your table, because the kid’s so close to you he will kick you in the thigh while he’s pitching a fit. (Yes, that really happened.)

Had a talkative young Canadian waiter who seemed utterly astonished that I said I didn’t want to order an entrée. Then he asked very tentatively if I was on the dining plan and visibly relaxed when I said no. He was probably anticipating having to explain to me that I couldn’t have appetizers.

You get a batch of breadsticks: sourdough, multigrain, and two pretzel sticks. Each of these relates to Canada in some way that I’ve forgotten (I remember the sourdough festival but not where they hold it and also forgot where they have the world’s second-largest Oktoberfest – in Canada of course – which is what the pretzel bread is for.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0682.jpg

And then there’s Maudite:

Pronounced mo-deet. From a brewery pronounced Uni-broo. (It is NOT pronounced Uni-brow). Mr. Canada says the name actually translates to “The Damned.” Of course I would be sitting in Le Cellier drinking damned beer. He says it comes from a story where some oceangoing guys (fishermen maybe) made a deal with the devil to get their boat operational so they could go home and see their wives. But the devil will get you in the end, because they made a voyage to pick up some supplies and never returned. So someone decided to name some beer after them.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0681.jpg

Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup:

This may be the most popular food item in the entire Walt Disney World complex. It makes an excellent dip for the breadsticks. If someone asked how it is I’d say “It’s good” but I’m not sure I would rave my head off and tell them they needed to pledge their firstborn child to a lifetime sweeping up after the parades in order to get a reservation at Le Cellier.
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Duck Three Ways:

The three ways are confit (the leg), rillette, and fleischnecke. The fleischnecke is the best. The rillette’s good too. The confit’s only passable. If it was all like the confit it’d get a Ned but I liked the other two items.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0684.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Prince Edward Island Mussels with celery, shallots, ginger, garlic, and coconut milk.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0686.jpg

My server recommended the mussels. He thought there wasn’t enough duck to make a main course. (He was right.) So I did get the mussels. And they were awesome! You have to pull them out and swish them around in the juice at the bottom of the bowl – which also has some red pepper flakes. I did not think I would be giving a Monty to anything from Le Cellier but the mussels were worth it.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

I did not order a dessert here – I got that later at Jiko:

Tanzanian Chocolate Cheesecake with Amarula Sauce and Lavender Ice Cream.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0687.jpg

I don’t like lavender ice cream but I liked this. And the cheesecake was thick and very chocolatey. The wine is a Mulderbosch Late Harvest Cabernet Souvignon. That is a very sweet wine but the chocolate cuts the sweetness a bit. Exxxxcellent. Now if they don’t serve any chocolate at the wine dinner tomorrow I am covered.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Shenanigoat

09-02-2009, 11:38 PM

That looks like a great day of food. I didn't know you got a trio of breadsticks at Le Cellier- very interesting. Your sustainable fish lunch at Sanaa seems wonderful. You are eating really well this week, not a Ned in sight yet, is that correct?

TDC Nala

09-02-2009, 11:45 PM

Ned turned up at Wolfgang Puck Express ya know. I've been lucky.

Shenanigoat

09-02-2009, 11:50 PM

Ned turned up at Wolfgang Puck Express ya know. I've been lucky.

That's right. Well one Ned isn't bad. And I forgot to mention:

And then there’s Maudite

I almost spit out my Nuvo.:lmao::rotfl:

buckylarue

09-03-2009, 01:40 AM

Wednesday, September 2
I did not order a dessert here – I got that later at Jiko:

Tanzanian Chocolate Cheesecake with Amarula Sauce and Lavender Ice Cream.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0687.jpg

Damn you Nala! I had just resolved to stick to the QSDP on my birthday trip and forego Boma or Jiko this time around...and then you have to go and show me chocolate cheesecake with Amarula sauce! http://i349.photobucket.com/albums/q382/saldania_photos/lobert_17/smiley_yummy.gif Now I have to rework my whole schedule to fit in dinner at Jiko, since I'm addicted to Amarula! It does look like a great dessert for my birthday...guess I'd better get ready to make an ADR next week!

BriarRosie

09-03-2009, 01:46 AM

That Sanaa fish looked terrific. I know what I'd want to order there now.
And the duck and mussels are all well and good, but I was happy to see some chocolate make an appearance.

I don't like lavender ice cream, either. Even when Keegan makes it. Blech.

Flossbolna

09-03-2009, 03:01 AM

The blood orange margarita sounds wonderful, I love blood oranges. This new Tequila bar which I never was excited about until now is now firmly on my schedule for January! :goodvibes Did it come with a red sugar rim?? Can you get the drinks to go?

"Fleischnecke" is a funny word, did you ask what it means? It sounds very much like the two German words Fleisch (meat) and Schnecke (snail, but also used as a culinary term for something that is rolled up like a cinamon roll which would be a Zimtschnecke).

oybolshoi

09-03-2009, 08:49 AM

Another lavender ice cream hater here ... tried it, wanted to like, felt like I was eating frozen perfume. I love the scent of lavender but I don't want to eat it.

So ... did you like the Maudite? That's one that Jay and I really like ... our favorite is Tres Pistoles. And thank you for clarifying the pronounciation - here in Stinktown everyone calls it Uni-brow, including us because we had no one who knew any better. :rotfl2:

Yet another fine day of dining ... I'm glad you are having such great food luck on this trip - that's as it should be when celebrating a birthday at WDW. Can't wait to hear all about the Jiko wine dinner! :thumbsup2

Oh and before I forget ... thank you for the information about the margarita foam - it grosses me out so I'm pretty sure I'll be ordering mine unfoamed. :laughing:

*KeepMovingForward*

09-03-2009, 10:13 AM

That tomato soup looks soo good-especially with that cheese to top it off. In my book anything with cheese can't be all that bad. I was on the fence about the tequila bar, but your blood orange margarita has tipped the balance, foam and all. Still laughing about the Uni-brow. I don't drink beer, but I've seen it and we've jokingly referred to it as the Unibrow beer. :lmao:

TDC Nala

09-03-2009, 10:53 AM

Have the lavender ice cream at Jiko! It's better than Keegan's.

Bucky Larue - if you don't want a full dinner at Jiko you can do what I did - walk down to Jiko and sit at the bar in the waiting area and they will bring you chocolate cheesecake or anything else you want.

bangzoom6877

09-03-2009, 12:08 PM

Once again, a great day of dining for you!

I'm really happy to see all the good things in your dining reviews about the fish at WDW. I love fish too (though I also love a good steak), and it's nice to see it prepared in different ways and with different sauces.

The food at Le Cellier looks good, and it's kind of funny that your waiter was relieved that you were not on the dining plan. The waiters at WDW have probably heard it all from customers on the dining plan. I'm a dining plan person, but I would also not try to get something for nothing and when I am told the rules for something, I will play by the rules. Many people are the same and follow what they are told, but so many also do the opposite and try to get something for nothing no matter what. Having been a server at a couple of different restaurants in college, I heard lots of bizarre things ("Why do I have to pay extra for a salad?"; "We don't eat the cooked vegetables that come with the entree, so why can't we just get a grilled chicken caesar salad as our side dish instead?"; "Oh, refills don't apply to draft beer?!", etc.)!!

Maybe it's because I haven't eaten there, but Le Cellier does seem to be the most overhyped WDW restaurant. Honestly, from what I have seen I don't see the big deal...not that I wouldn't try getting an ADR for dinner there if DH really wants to eat there on our next trip, but I would not be in the least crushed if we couldn't get into there. I know a lot of people go there because they have filet and they feel that it's a good deal on the DDP, but you could also get beef tenderloin at Les Chefs de France, and The Wave, and those are 2 restaurants we definitely want to try, before Le Cellier.

Sandy321

09-03-2009, 12:26 PM

I am not a fish person - but your reviews are making me rethink fish!!

and I'm ready for a blood orange margarita!! (with or w/o foam!!) I have to remember that beer!! (and what no ice wine at LeCellier?? lol)

Again, another great review with pictures!! Thank you! :worship:

ChelleinNC

09-03-2009, 12:45 PM

I want those mussels :thumbsup2 They look/sound wonderful :goodvibes

LeCellier Canadian Cheddar Cheese soup :cloud9:

hmgray95

09-03-2009, 02:59 PM

I'm not normally a fish person, but that lunch at Sanaa looks amazing!

bluejasmine

09-03-2009, 05:23 PM

Wow amazing reviews and food! Im so jealous right now! Will be there in a few wks tho! Have a wonderful time!

TigerKat

09-03-2009, 05:52 PM

We've had the mussels at LeCellier, but it was the old preparation with the applewood smoked bacon and potatoes. That is one of my favorite WDW dishes of all time!

I'm loving all of the reviews from La Cava del Tequila!!!!:thumbsup2

jeminni

09-03-2009, 09:22 PM

Loving your reviews. The Sustainable Fish at Sanaa looked absolutely delicious. :goodvibes

Waiting to find out if you try the food at The Ditch. ;)

whogirl'smom

09-03-2009, 10:10 PM

Loving the margaritas!

Aimeedyan

09-04-2009, 12:13 AM

You crack me up :laughing:

Looking forward to more! Enjoy the rest of your birthday week! :thumbsup2

buckylarue

09-04-2009, 01:01 AM

Bucky Larue - if you don't want a full dinner at Jiko you can do what I did - walk down to Jiko and sit at the bar in the waiting area and they will bring you chocolate cheesecake or anything else you want.

Hush! I just got my partner convinced that we need to get me a dinner there so I don't spend my birthday alone in my room with a party hat and a cupcake!:rotfl:

BriarRosie

09-04-2009, 01:59 AM

Hush! I just got my partner convinced that we need to get me a dinner there so I don't spend my birthday alone in my room with a party hat and a cupcake!:rotfl:

You could still order your full dinner at the bar area, you know. ;)

And I had to comment on your avatar. I can answer the Statler and Waldorf question for you.

Whichever one of you resembles Abe Vigoda more...that would be Statler.
If one of you resembles Wilford Brimley without glasses...you'd be more like Waldorf. :laughing:

disney_princess_85

09-04-2009, 06:30 AM

Thanks for the great reviews! :thumbsup2 The fish at Sanaa looks good- and that's coming from a vegetarian! :rotfl:

medicgirl911

09-04-2009, 10:01 AM

:lovestruc Loving your reviews! I have to say I am quite jealous of the fact that you were all cozy at California Grill during that rainstorm...I was walking barefoot from Main St to the buses so I didnt ruin my shoes in the nearly ankle deep water!! :rotfl: It is probably a good thing I didn't know that tequila bar was open~~ I would have went home broke after way too many $15 drinks! *either that or I would have been kicked out for drunken behavior inapproprate for Disney* I love Tequila!:love: Can't wait to read more!

tink1957

09-04-2009, 11:24 AM

We've had the mussels at LeCellier, but it was the old preparation with the applewood smoked bacon and potatoes. That is one of my favorite WDW dishes of all time!

Mine too! I was going to book an ADR at Le Cellier just to eat the mussels :love:& when I found out that they no longer had this on the menu, I was so disappointed that I booked somewhere else instead. Why do they have to mess up a good thing(the applewood bacon mussels, Chocolate Wave at CR)?

Nala, thanks for the pic of the Blood Orange Margarita, I know what I'm ordering at the ditch now.

cdtommie

09-04-2009, 08:23 PM

I guess I should say Happy Birthday on your actual birthday, huh? :rotfl2:

Happy Happy day to you! party::bday:party:

When you have time, could you please tell us a little about the limey / jalapeno margarita you tried at the tequila bar? My hubby would probably love to try one (or more than one) in October but I'd really like to know what you thought of it before I nudge him towards it.

Hi Brenda, just returned a couple of days ago and I had this (and the traditional one also) - just a hint of jalapeno heat but very enjoyable - I really liked this place and I can envision this place being mobbed on the weekends and evenings.

Also want to give a big thumbs up to the sangria swirl margarita at Paradiso 37 - absolutely deadly!

cdtommie

09-04-2009, 08:52 PM

TDC, hope you liked the Maudite with the duck...looks like you didn't swirl the yeast into your Fin du Monde glass at BD - it makes a big difference (the beer snob lectures!!!).

Loved the reviews - I also had those tomato/mozzarella at FF and it was most excellent (as was the NY strip - from a guy who doesn't eat much steak at Disney since it is so "ordinary").

I asked about TIW at the tequlia bar and the waitress said they will probably accept it but not yet (the usual Disney computer start up glitches story).

oybolshoi

09-04-2009, 09:12 PM

Hi Brenda, just returned a couple of days ago and I had this (and the traditional one also) - just a hint of jalapeno heat but very enjoyable - I really liked this place and I can envision this place being mobbed on the weekends and evenings.

Also want to give a big thumbs up to the sangria swirl margarita at Paradiso 37 - absolutely deadly!

Hey there beer man! Thanks for the recommendations ... can't wait to try both places next month. :thumbsup2

Sounds like you had a good trip, too. :goodvibes

gardengirl628

09-04-2009, 09:25 PM

Sorry I'm jumping in here so late! Totally enjoying your reviews. We are trying Flying Fish in December. And I can't wait to try a blood orange margarita!:cheer2:

TDC Nala

09-05-2009, 12:07 AM

Thursday, September 3

Guess where? Yes, Cava del Tequila.

The bartenders and servers know me by now.

The object is to have lunch here. ImprovGal is along for the trip now. We have decided that since we have the Jiko wine dinner this evening we will split a couple of appetizers from The Ditch so we can find out what the food is like. I have not been here when the timing favored my being able to order food.

The Margarita of the Day is the Aguacate.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0691.jpg

This one contains avocado, that’s why it’s green. It’s not supposed to be easy being green (ask Kermit the Frog or the Wicked Witch of the West) but this is a very refreshing margarita. It’s a favorite now along with the blood orange one.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

We put in an order for some Tostadas de Tinga (they’re chicken tostadas. I don’t know what Tinga is but I am pretty sure it isn’t “chicken”) and some guacamole.

Here’s the tostadas:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0689.jpg

They have a nice barbecue-type taste. I will bestow a Lisa upon them:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

And the guacamole.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0690.jpg

I really did like the guacamole with the wagon wheel chips. There was a bit of spicy sauce drizzled over the chips. There’s enough for two people to have a snack and it costs $8. Here comes Mr. Burns:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Just when you thought you were safe to finish your margarita and leave, the lovely folks at The Ditch apparently recognized that I am a member of the frequent drinker program and brought some (comped) crab tostadas.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0692.jpg

These are tasty too. I even liked the chipotle mayo they put on them.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

TDC Nala

09-05-2009, 12:08 AM

And now the big one:

Jiko Dinner Series – Wine Dinner

For this particular dinner, since so many items scored a Burns, this will be rated on the (in ascending order) First, Second and Third Degree Burns scale.

The Jiko dinner series is a big evening of lots of food and lots of wine. They’re held on the first Thursday of every month. They usually have a winery guest who presents all the wines for the dinner, and the Jiko chefs prepare all the courses. This month’s guest, though, was John Blazon, Disney’s former master sommelier. The word “former” is used because Mr. Blazon was laid off from his position at Disney awhile back. But, they brought him in so he could recommend some favorite South African wines for the dinner, and show us slides of South Africa. Jiko sends its chefs and wine people to South Africa to study the wines and the food. Nice work if you can get it.

The evening starts in a savanna overlook at Jambo House with a reception where they serve some little mini appetizers. These were provided by Chef Frank from Boma. (Don’t look for these items to be served at Boma – the chefs make up special items to serve at the dinners.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0693.jpg

Here are two of the three appetizers: On the right, Watermelon Tomato Soup with Blue Cheese Crisp, dubbed by us the Elixir of Watermelon. It’s served cold and you can chug it. This soup rated a third-degree Burns, it was that good.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

On the left: Salt Cod Fritters with Lemon Herb Remoulade.

Nice salty fish with a little bite from the sauce. But it was basically a fish fritter. Heeere’s Lisa
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

These two appetizers were easy to find. The third was not so simple. It was Braised Pork Belly with Red Curry sauce. These bits of pork fat sitting on Uri Geller’s old spoons circulated so quickly I was not able to easily get a photo of them. At one point I was considering not mentioning the pork at all, which meant it quickly became “the pork which will not be named” or “Voldepork.”

Without further ado, meet Voldepork:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0694.jpg

Voldepork was okay but I am not a fan of fatty pork. I am a fan of curry though, so Lisa belongs here, too.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The wine served with the appetizers was Cederberg Bukettrabe 2008 (white).

First dinner course: Curry Chapati, Grilled Baby Corn, Avocado and Heirloom Tomato by Chef John.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0696.jpg
This has a nice spicy sauce and rates a second-degree Burns.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Wine served: Warwick Professor Black Sauvignon Blanc, 2008 (white)

Second dinner course: Beware to those who do not like their food to look them in the eye.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0698.jpg
Langostine, White Cheddar Sadza, Braised Celery, Shellfish Reduction by Chef Mike. First-degree Burns for the creepy little crustacean, who tasted pretty good although some of us looked silly trying to get more food out of its head when all the insides had been removed from there. Oh, and Sadza are African grits.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Wine served: Rustenberg Five Soldiers Chardonnay, 2008 (white)

Third dinner course: West African Groundnut Soup, Fried Banana Bread by Chef Brett
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0699.jpg

Groundnuts – peanuts. When Brett got up to describe the dish, he said the fried bread on top is also called golgola, which is much more fun to say than “fried banana bread.” Second-degree Burns. The second one is just because it is so much fun to say “golgola”
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Wine served: Sequillo White Blend by Eden Sadie White, 2006 (obviously white)

TDC Nala

09-05-2009, 12:09 AM

Booze course: Dawa (prepared by Chef David)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0701.jpg
This is made of lime juice, honey and (gasp) vodka. It’s like cough syrup used to be when it was alcoholic. He served it with a little sugar cane swizzle stick so you could mix the juice, vodka and honey. This will fix your sore throat. I mean, everybody was pretending to get sick so they could get more of this stuff.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Fourth dinner course: Veal tenderloin, Celeriac puree, sauteed leeks, cherry raisin jus by Chef Mace
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0702.jpg
I liked the sauces, but I was not enthused with the way the veal was prepared, and that was a lot of celeriac.
Just because it was not really to my taste, this is the only Lisa of the main courses.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Wine served: De Toren Fusion V, 2006 (red)

Cheese course by Chef Brett:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0703.jpg
Comte (French cow cheese) with marinated apple slaw, smoked bacon, champagne grapes
Fourme d’Ambert (French cow) with pistachio biscotti, fig custard and Minus 8 balsamic vinegar
Purple Haze (US goat) with poached peach, lingonberry jam, rose water
One Burns for each cheese:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Wine served: Spice Route “Chakalaka,” 2007 (red)

Dessert course: Ginger and Madagascar Vanilla Crème Brulee, Macerated Berries, Strawberry Shortcake with Basil Crème Freche, by Chef David
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0704.jpg
Two Burns for making the crème brulee so small and putting ginger in it. And for the really cool little cocoa Jiko on the plate.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Yeah, it’s a crème brulee, but it’s a little tiny one so they are forgiven for serving one.

Wine served: Paul Cluver Late Harvest 2007

If you try the Jiko Dinner Series, remember that you shouldn't eat much the rest of the day - and pace yourself on the wine! That's a lot of wine. That's so much wine that if you happen to be doing a live food report you may not want to stay up and post an update. :scared1:

I forgot to mention that all the guests were given a bottle of one of John's favorite wines to take home - they distributed per couple but I am a single so I got my own bottle. Mine is a Seidelberg Viognier from South Africa.

Food porn from the dark side still coming up.

Tricia1972

09-05-2009, 12:14 AM

Thanks for taking one for the team and staying up late to post todays review Catherine. It looks like an AMAZING food day! Jiko is my second favorite place at Disney, and I think I may need to try this dinner sometime.

(Hey I even stayed up late to read your update - that's pretty big for this mom of three ;) )

iluvpluto27

09-05-2009, 04:03 AM

Thanks for the great reviews. I'm definitely going to try the blood orange margarita and the Jiko wine dinner looks fantastic.

PNO4TE

09-05-2009, 08:09 AM

Another stellar day for your taste buds, Catherine. I am glad you are enjoying yourself on the birthday trip! Thanks for sharing it with us.

DLo

09-05-2009, 08:28 AM

wow! the wine pairing looks amazing and so many mr. burns! Tequila and I don't get along (well, maybe in moderation we would) so I probably won't be going to the ditch but the drinks look yummy. I prefer vodka - any suggestions for that?

Sandy321

09-05-2009, 09:52 AM

:yay::yay:Oh my gosh oh my gosh!!

I didnt realize you were such a foodie!! Your reviews are simple, direct and to the point (the point of making my mouth water, and my stomach growl!! lol) and the pictures do the talking - I never thought I'd like Jiko at all - but I want to try it - I had no idea they have this classy of a meal! BOOHISS Disney for laying off the Somelier -

this gem of a meal - its what Disney needs to offer more - more variety in their meals - let the chefs shine!! I wonder what the Chefs at Cali Grill would do?

The voldemort pork!!! :rotfl: what a riot!!

The ditch knows you!! :thumbsup2 Dawa, golgola, and what is a minus 8 balsamic? I know I want some!!! :rotfl2: (I do love balsamic - we have a olive oil store here that lets you taste test blasamics and olive oils!! )

Sounds like a very festive birthday celebration!! Thanks for sharing it with me!! :wizard:

donaldtutter

09-05-2009, 10:03 AM

Cava del Tequila seems like a great place. Did you have to wait or notice others having to wait to get a seat at a table or the bar?

TDC Nala

09-05-2009, 10:18 AM

Cava del Tequila has no seats at the bar, but they've got a few tables and a little nook with a sofa and some stools. When I have been there, there has always been space at the tables, but there really are not many tables. There's also some benches just outside the door where you can sit with your margarita and people-watch in the pavilion, but I think you need to be inside to order food.

Will probably drop by there this afternoon. Had cheese for breakfast thanks to the lady sitting next to me at Jiko who gave me her cheese course, which I had packed up to go.

oybolshoi

09-05-2009, 10:22 AM

Fabulous!

Loved the triple-degree Burns system you had to roll out for Jiko and voldepork ... seriously, I spewed coffee. :rotfl2:

Thanks for taking time to share ... one day I'm just going to plan a trip to WDW for the beginning of the month just so we can finally make it to one of those Jiko dinners.

And thanks again for all the reconnaissance work on the Tequila Ditch ... we are very excited here in Stinkotwn and have decided that we too must visit every day to try something new. :thumbsup2

disneyfav4ever

09-05-2009, 10:27 AM

Looks like Mexico will be one of my first stops this trip. I need a blood orange and/or passion fruit margarita, and I would love to try that guacamole.

scojos

09-05-2009, 10:55 AM

Shenanigoat

09-05-2009, 02:31 PM

Voldepork:rotfl:

Jiko looked great. What a wonderful meal experiance. And thanks for doing such hardcore reconnaissance on the tequila "ditch". It's a dirty job but somebody's gotta do it.:thumbsup2

BriarRosie

09-05-2009, 03:46 PM

You had me at Voldepork. :rotfl2:

And the Uri Geller spoons! I love Uri Geller spoons. I've never been served anything bad that rested in one of those spoons.

I totally lost it after the 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree Burns rating system, the Voldepork, and the warning about food that stares you in the eye. :rotfl2:

I know that I want one of those avocado margaritas next month. And two months after that.

And I am totally bummed that I couldn't see the look on your face when you saw creme brulee on the menu.

bangzoom6877

09-05-2009, 05:48 PM

The avocado margarita looks very interesting...I may have to try that one!

I love it how you had first, second and third degree Burns in your Jiko review!! That is a lot of wine and sounds very nice! I could use some right now actually! ;)

dallastxcpa

09-05-2009, 05:51 PM

I just found your review and I am loving it. :cool1:

klacey1

09-05-2009, 05:58 PM

Subscribing!

TDC Nala

09-05-2009, 07:26 PM

Sanaa for dinner - headed downstairs.

Wait till you see Tchoup Chop.

oybolshoi

09-05-2009, 07:29 PM

Having been to Tchoup Chop I bet it was fam dabulous! :thumbsup2

TigerKat

09-05-2009, 07:50 PM

Sanaa for dinner - headed downstairs.

Wait till you see Tchoup Chop.

Oh, I'm so excited for Tchoup Chop!!! Bendy recommended it and we can't wait!:thumbsup2

TDC Nala

09-06-2009, 12:17 AM

Friday, September 4 – Universal Studios

I hope a break to add some Universal food porn is in order. Because there’s a lot of it here.

Mythos, Islands of Adventure
Mythos has a big banner out front that says “Best Theme Park Restaurant” but I forget who awarded it that. It’s possible the awarder has not eaten there in awhile. Because while it’s still pretty good, I have had better meals at Disney – maybe not inside the parks, but certainly outside them.

First order: The Mythos Martini.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0708.jpg
It’s a few kinds of fruity liqueurs, some vodka and a cherry in the bottom of the glass. Sweet, but pretty good. Gets a Lisa
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Here is my entrée:
The Roman Panini.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0711.jpg

I do not have any idea whether or not they eat these in Rome. It’s a steak sandwich with mozzarella cheese, roasted red peppers, and supposedly pepperoni. Darned if I could tell there was any pepperoni in it. I don’t mind a steak sandwich – there usually isn’t much fat in sandwich meat. This one was pretty good. Another Lisa
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The fries accompanying it, however, get their own category. I paid the 50 cent upcharge for what the menu referred to as “parmesan fries.” What I ended up getting was a regular order of fries with parmesan cheese sprinkled on top. Universal doesn’t have a dining plan – at least, not a table service dining plan - so what’s the excuse for cheaping out like that? Yeah, okay, I ate the fries. But Mythos made me mad. So mad I am releasing the hounds on them for their astoundingly cheap french fry upcharge.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/releasethehounds.jpg

Special Guest Food Reviews from Mythos:
Posted here you’ll find the tortilla soup and shrimp caesar salad ordered by ImprovGal who will quote the photos and add her own reviews:

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0709.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0710.jpg

Stay tuned.

TDC Nala

09-06-2009, 12:19 AM

Emeril’s Tchoup Chop All Seafood Degustation Menu

If you’re really into the whole food thing, you can go to Tchoup Chop (which is a beautiful restaurant by the way) and ask to sit at the show kitchen. This gives you a view of what the chefs are up to.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0718.jpg

The guy standing right in front is the sushi chef. Right behind him, at the pass, is Tchoup Chop’s head chef, Greg Richie. He’s the guy some of us already spent $5-$8 to go to his culinary demonstration at Epcot on October 17. The guy with his back to the camera grilled all the meat. The one behind him was apparently in charge of fried stuff. And the guy in the back, don’t know what his job was, but he was very talented at twirling tongs.

All of Emeril’s restarants give you not one server, but three. One takes the lead and the others take turns bringing stuff. Our lead server brought up the tasting menu. They had a five course menu for $55 and a six course menu for $65. You could add wine pairings for another $45. I passed on the wine pairings and ordered a couple of glasses of wine myself. The lead server outlined the courses for us and they sounded great except that ImprovGal does not eat red meat, so she asked to do something else with the beef course. I had beef for lunch so I asked for the same. The server tried to sell us a duck course but when we expressed an interest in seafood he offered a six-course with all seafood. THAT was too good to pass up.

Once again the Degrees of Burns scale is being brought into action here.

1. Amuse Bouche
I can’t say what exactly this was – it’s Asian spiced chicken rolled in a leaf. No, you don’t light it and smoke it. You eat the whole thing, leaf and all.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0712.jpg
(An amuse bouche is a little appetizer the chef throws in to whet the appetite – it’s not part of the actual courses.)
The chicken was beautifully spiced and I am sure there was soy involved. First-degree Burns.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

2. Wasabi Cured Lomi Lomi Salmon Napoleon with Avocados, Crème Fraiche, and Crispy Wontons
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0713.jpg
This is on the regular appetizer menu. Creamy, crunchy, some spice from the wasabi (I would have liked a little MORE wasabi), nice sushi-like salmon chunks. Two Burns
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

3. Baby Wedge Salad with Bacon, Avocado, Tomato, Blue Cheese, and Creamy Peppercorn Ranch Dressing
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0714.jpg
It’s cute, isn’t it? Although I am not sure about the Baby Wedge thing. Wasn’t Wedge the guy in Star Wars who always shot someone down when Luke Skywalker was in trouble? This was just a nice little salad, nobody in trouble, not even the guy with the tongs in the kitchen picture. Besides the dessert, this was the only one of the actual courses that did not involve seafood.
First-degree Burns
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

4. Thai Basil Seared Mahi Mahi with Edamame Fried Rice Cake, Roasted Vine Ripe Tomato Fumet
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0715.jpg
The fish and cake were served in the bowl, and the tomato broth poured in by the server. Fish want to be caught so they can end up in this dish. It was FANTASTIC. This is easily the best thing I have eaten all week (and I don’t think Sanaa and Ohana are going to surpass it). It COULD…GO…ALL…THE…WAY. Third-degree Burns for this baby.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

5. The Scallop That Ate Cincinnati
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0716.jpg
Okay, it’s actually Pan Seared Maine Jumbo Sea Scallops with Shrimp and Fire Roasted Sweet Corn Risotto, Creamy Yellow Thai Curry Lobster Sauce. But take a look at that scallop. It’s frickin’ HUGE. And the one on top is even bigger. These are the scallops that tested positive for steroids and got kicked out of the Scallopian Olympics. Not only that, but these suckers are cooked perfectly. This was better than the creepy langostine from Jiko. Another third-degree Burns
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

6. Pepper Grilled Yellowfin Tuna Steak with Wild Mushroom-Pea Tendril Stir Fry, Fingerling Potatoes, Charred Scallion Ginger Reduction
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0717.jpg
There was lots of pepper on the fish, and it went really well with the soy based reduction sauce they used and with the pinot noir I was drinking with it. Three more Burns coming up
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

7. Dessert course: Rum cake with caramel ice cream and chocolate bread pudding.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0724.jpg
Awesome. What’s even more awesome is: it’s not a crème brulee. Yes, I know the chocolate bread pudding looks like a glob of unhardened asphalt. Doesn't taste like it though. Second-degree Burns for the dessert.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Cocktail:
Canteloupe Martini
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0727.jpg
Swung back and forth between tasting like canteloupe and tasting like orange. On the specialty drink menu. It was only a little less expensive than margaritas from the Ditch. Very very nice. One Burns for you
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Coming Up: Contempo Cafe, Sanaa, Ohana and more margaritas

Aimeedyan

09-06-2009, 12:29 AM

Okay. You sold me on Tchoup Chop - I've never done any of the "Universal" restaurants but that sounds fantastic. Are reservations required? How far out do you have to make them?

Ciciwoowoo

09-06-2009, 12:37 AM

Oh my goodness!!! I should not read this before bed... :rotfl2:

oybolshoi

09-06-2009, 12:47 AM

Okay. You sold me on Tchoup Chop - I've never done any of the "Universal" restaurants but that sounds fantastic. Are reservations required? How far out do you have to make them?

You can make reservations 60-90 days out using OpenTable . Com ... we use them for both of Emeril's restaurant's at Universal. I would definitely make a reservation to eat there - it's very popular.

Tchoup Chop was great when we dined there for our anniversary back in 2006 and I'm so happy to know that it's still as good today as it was then.

Great review Catherine! :thumbsup2

Shenanigoat

09-06-2009, 12:58 AM

Mythos won for best theme park restaurant at Theme park insider (http://www.themeparkinsider.com/reviews/universal's_islands_of_adventure/mythos_restaurant/). It's a shame you had to release the hounds for the first time there. But at least you didn't have to release the bees. Or the dogs with bees in their mouth and when they bark, they shoot bees at you.

Tchoup Chop looks amazing. I won't go there till Harry Potter land or whatev opens over there, but at least I know where to get good grub now. Great reviews!

Wants2Live@WDW

09-06-2009, 01:24 AM

Happy belated birthday!

HILARIOUS commentary and great reviews!!! Thank you SO much for doing this! (and I never knew about the Universal restaurants).

Hope that you are enjoying your vacation!

I'll stay tuned for any additions. Thanks again for this! popcorn::

BriarRosie

09-06-2009, 01:40 AM

Oh my. Your first Releasing of the Hounds. Well deserved, I must say. Pathetic. They opened a can of Kraft and dumped it on the fries. Sheesh.

I'm looking forward to Improvgal's review of her dishes.

But Tchoup Chop? Wow. :love:

I really want to eat there now. I thought Emeril's was good, but that looked fantastic. Even the scallops and shrimp that appeared to me to have crab envy.

That is some gorgeous looking food.

iluvpluto27

09-06-2009, 04:05 AM

Wow, Tchoup Tchoup looks fantastic. We're eating there for the first time in October and now I can't wait!

scojos

09-06-2009, 09:28 AM

loving the reviews, keep them coming:thumbsup2
Tracy

jeminni

09-06-2009, 09:33 AM

All I can say after reading ( and drooling ) over your reviews of Jiko and Tchoup Tchoup is WOW!!!!! :goodvibes

Sandy321

09-06-2009, 09:40 AM

Releasing of the Hounds - well deserved - if only they felt the bite! Sheesh a can of parm? even fresh parm on those dry looking fries ...

LOVE the Tchoup review - and I :rotfl: wondering if you were going to get creme brulee - only to see the pic and your comments! asphalt not!! :rotfl2:

Great Reviews!! :cool1:

(Brenda thanks for the tip of open table.com! :thumbsup2)

PNO4TE

09-06-2009, 09:50 AM

ChelleinNC

09-06-2009, 10:37 AM

OMG! Jiko & Tchoup Chop :cloud9:

"Fish want to be caught to be put in this dish" :lmao: really makes me wish that I liked mahi mahi. The scallops though :love: that looks to die for good!

Now I'll go pour myseld an exciting bowl of rainis bran for breakfast :sad2:

oybolshoi

09-06-2009, 10:41 AM

Tchoup Chop looks like a place that could entice me off WDW property. We will have our car with us in December. :scratchin Is there a menu online somewhere? myBob wouldn't like offerings like this scrumptious line-up you had, but methinks there ought to be lots for him to choose from!

I look forward to ImprovGal's review too!

Elin, if you google Emeril it will bring up a link that takes you to a webste that covers him, his recipes, restaurants, etc. If you find the section for his restaurants there will be a link for Tchoup Chop and the lunch and dinner menus will be available there.

cdtommie

09-06-2009, 10:48 AM

Hey there beer man! Thanks for the recommendations ... can't wait to try both places next month. :thumbsup2

Sounds like you had a good trip, too. :goodvibes

I survived the August humidity (barely) and also survived an 8 y/o in tow (our great friends Lynn and Larry and their son came along (thank God for Nintendo!) and that 1.75L bottle of Tanqueray that Mrs Cdtommie and I knocked off on the side over five days sure helped.

We did five signatures for dinner on the DxDP - concensus was CG and FF too close to call at top with Jiko and Citrico's next and Artist Point was clearly last (although it was good news that the buffalo strip has returned).

Beer wise Sam's O'fest on tap at Crew's Cup and at Backlot Canteen over at DHS - a Disney bargain at $6.25.

We'll also be Tchoup'ing it in December.

PNO4TE

09-06-2009, 10:50 AM

Elin, if you google Emeril it will bring up a link that takes you to a webste that covers his, his recipes, restaurants, etc. If you find the section for his restaurants there will be a link for Tchoup Chop and the lunch and dinner menus will be available there.

:thumbsup2 :goodvibes

Aimeedyan

09-06-2009, 09:42 PM

You can make reservations 60-90 days out using OpenTable . Com ... we use them for both of Emeril's restaurant's at Universal. I would definitely make a reservation to eat there - it's very popular.

Tchoup Chop was great when we dined there for our anniversary back in 2006 and I'm so happy to know that it's still as good today as it was then.

Great review Catherine! :thumbsup2

Thanks! :goodvibes

PNO4TE

09-06-2009, 09:50 PM

You can make reservations 60-90 days out using OpenTable . Com ...

It appears you can make reservations for Tchoup Chop more than 90 days out. If I wanted to book Christmas Eve there right now, I could! I didn't but it was available. ::yes::

Aimeedyan

09-06-2009, 10:03 PM

It appears you can make reservations for Tchoup Chop more than 90 days out. If I wanted to book Christmas Eve there right now, I could! I didn't but it was available. ::yes::

I was just coming back to post that I was able to snag my reservation for Dec 19 :thumbsup2

I considered doing Christmas Eve there, but since we're staying at BCV the three nights around Christmas I want to enjoy what we can walk to those days. :laughing:

PNO4TE

09-06-2009, 10:09 PM

I was just coming back to post that I was able to snag my reservation for Dec 19 :thumbsup2

I considered doing Christmas Eve there, but since we're staying at BCV the three nights around Christmas I want to enjoy what we can walk to those days. :laughing:

We must be on about the same vacation timetable in December!

bangzoom6877

09-06-2009, 10:33 PM

Good to know Universal has some good food too. We're waiting a few years to go there, because our boys are only 2 and 4 now, so we want to take them when they are a little older. Same thing for Sea World. So July's trip will only be Disney parks. But I am keeping your reviews in mind for future trips involving Universal!

ImprovGal

09-07-2009, 11:47 AM

Special Guest Food Reviews from Mythos:
Posted here you’ll find the tortilla soup and shrimp caesar salad ordered by ImprovGal who will quote the photos and add her own reviews:

Alas, I have come to bury Caesar, not to praise it.

But first -- the soup!

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0709.jpg

I've had the tortilla soup before it was just as good as before. The soup tasted fresh, had just enough spice to give the sour cream garnish something to cool, and had the rim of the bowl liberally dusted with cumin, which I pushed into the soup to give it extra cuminy goodness.

I give the soup a Lisa.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

And now the salad.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0710.jpg

Caesar salads appear on the menu of nearly every restaurant in the US. With something that ubiquitous, it's amazing how broadly inconsistent its recipe can be. I opted to add on the shrimp to my salad. They tasted fine and were cooked perfectly, although I don't think they were quite worth the surcharge that amounted to nearly $2 per shrimp. The prize was at the bottom of the bowl -- wood grilled pitas that had been brushed with olive oil. They were smoky and delicious.

Unfortunately, those tasty pita wedges were buried in the blandest caesar salad I've ever tasted. I suspect no anchovies or garlic had been harmed in the making of the dressing. The shredded cheese on top did nothing to enhance the flavor either and in hindsight I suspect it may have even been a parmesan imposter (maybe mozzarella?). Perhaps TDCNala's fifty cents was enough to bribe the Kraft grated parmesan off my salad and onto her fries.
I hate to rob pitas to rate all but I'm sending the whole dish to the hounds.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/releasethehounds.jpg

It really didn't help that service was also painfully sloooooow. Perhaps we've gotten too acclimated to the expedited service in the table service of the Disney parks.

If I return to Mythos in the future, I'll spare Caesar and beware the sides of starch.

BriarRosie

09-07-2009, 01:58 PM

Wow, another hounds rating. Does Caesar dressing exist in a flavor vacuum?
Loved the Ides of March reference at the end. I'm glad at least your soup was good.

jeminni

09-07-2009, 02:05 PM

Another hound rating. Hopefully this will be the last one. And the salad photographed so well too...

*KeepMovingForward*

09-07-2009, 02:21 PM

Your glowing review of Tchoup Chop has convinced me to give it a whirl for our December trip. :)

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 02:28 PM

just wanted to say how much i was enjoying your reviews, and as a huge HP fan loved the voldepork :rotfl2:
i do have some deep questions to ask you.... we were considering a trip to V and A next year, without the kids;), all 3 of my kids are huge foodies, well behaved in restaurants and would adore all the stuff you ate at jiko, so this may be an option...
Do they take children? Do they take the DDP? (we have already choosen jiko and CG as 2 x 2TS meals we want to try, so if they dont we ll just pay OOP)
do they do "special" meals as i have some v severe food allergies and couldnt eat some of the dishes you were served. Do you have to do the wine pairing? i dont drink (long story)...
do you book normally through disney dining as it is a special event? thanks for any info, i hadnt heard of this before.
Dh is a chef, and as a special treat im going to arrange for him to do the kitchen trip at AKL, ill take the kids to watch the animals, and a cocktail, he ll absolutely adore that! how do you go about arranging the tour, do you have to sign up before hand?
i have learnt so much reading your reports... i too had the dusk at LeC and found it bland and greasy, but loved the soup, not sure i would have sold my eldest child for it, but it was good:goodvibes
Thanks
Tracy

This was awhile back but I can't get all the photos uploaded before the plane boards so I'll try to answer this.

Are you referring to the Jiko Dinner Series? I would not bring children to that, ever. I have never seen children at one. It is definitely not a family event - it's very adult in focus. The cost is $160 I think - including tax and tip. They don't have a children's menu for the wine dinner event and there is a lot of wine involved, which of course the children can't have but the adults can have tons of it. It also lasts two to three hours.

No, the special dinner event does not accept DDP, nor can you use Tables in Wonderland discount on it.

You would be much better off just booking dinner there and your husband can ask to chat with the chefs or talk about wine. Then, you can also put in a request regarding food allergies. If they're not too busy, they'll be glad to (to busy to chat - not deal with the food allergies - Disney's good with food allergies). You might also want to go to AKL about 4 PM and do the culinary tour. That would be easier with children and your husband would get to chat with chefs. There's no preregistration for that - just show up at the Jiko podium. But I am afraid I absolutely cannot recommend the Jiko Dinner Series for children, foodies or not. I don't recommend it for anyone too young to drink wine. There is a very heavy focus on the wine.

scojos

09-07-2009, 03:25 PM

This was awhile back but I can't get all the photos uploaded before the plane boards so I'll try to answer this.

Are you referring to the Jiko Dinner Series? I would not bring children to that, ever. I have never seen children at one. It is definitely not a family event - it's very adult in focus. The cost is $160 I think - including tax and tip. They don't have a children's menu for the wine dinner event and there is a lot of wine involved, which of course the children can't have but the adults can have tons of it. It also lasts two to three hours.

No, the special dinner event does not accept DDP, nor can you use Tables in Wonderland discount on it.

You would be much better off just booking dinner there and your husband can ask to chat with the chefs or talk about wine. Then, you can also put in a request regarding food allergies. If they're not too busy, they'll be glad to. You might also want to go to AKL about 4 PM and do the culinary tour. That would be easier with children and your husband would get to chat with chefs. There's no preregistration for that - just show up at the Jiko podium. But I am afraid I absolutely cannot recommend the Jiko Dinner Series for children, foodies or not. I don't recommend it for anyone too young to drink wine. There is a very heavy focus on the wine.

thanks for replying, though i must be honest briarrose had already pmed me virtually the same info:goodvibes
we have discussed it as a family, we are going to trage CG for jiko, the kids like the idea of seeing the animals in the evening !
thanks for your advice, im enjoying your honest reviews - oh and have convinced dh to do choup choup too! another adults only night yeah!!!!
thanks
Tracy

donaldtutter

09-07-2009, 05:27 PM

Are there separate tours for Jiko and Sanaa or are they a combined tour? I am really enjoying your reviews!! Great pictures!!

Karlzmom

09-07-2009, 06:22 PM

Lunch today will be at Coral Reef! I will check on that aquarium sushi camera setting. It is sort of ironic that Coral Reef does not have sushi on the menu isn't it?

I once had t-shirt with a beautiful fish that said "Potential Sushi"....seriously, that would be weird to be watching them watch me eat them......

mcrabeck

09-07-2009, 06:42 PM

All caught up! Great Reviews- thanks for sharing your vacation!:thumbsup2

Shenanigoat

09-07-2009, 06:44 PM

Thanks for all your reviews. I looks like you had a great filling vacation.:thumbsup2

Microcell

09-07-2009, 06:56 PM

Alas, I have come to bury Caesar, not to praise it.

If I return to Mythos in the future, I'll spare Caesar and beware the sides of starch.

That is a full blown Monty if we were judging the play on words!

Love this thread and I might just go to Universal now..

TigerKat

09-07-2009, 07:25 PM

Thanks for all of your fab reviews. I'm getting very excited about Tchoup Chop next month!!!!!:cool1:

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 07:36 PM

Are there separate tours for Jiko and Sanaa or are they a combined tour? I am really enjoying your reviews!! Great pictures!!

They are separate tours. The restaurants are in separate buildings. Jiko and Boma are in Jambo House (formerly just Animal Kingdom Lodge). Sanaa is located at Kidani Village. Kidani is next to Jambo House, but they are not attached.

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 07:37 PM

Saturday, September 5

Lunch: Contempo Café, Contemporary Resort

This was chosen over a favorite, the Grown Up Grilled Cheese at Captain Cook’s at the Polynesian. The thought was that we’d never tried the Contempo Café and it got pretty good reviews.

For my lunch I picked a Spiced Mahi Mahi Sandwich with a side of green bean sesame salad.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0729.jpg

This was pretty good. It was a good sized and nicely spiced (not hot spice) hunk of fish on soft bread with citrus slaw on top. Added some red onions and Tabasco from the condiments bar. The red onions don’t come with the slaw. But they did add a little flavor. I like adding a little Tabasco but this didn’t really need that much of it.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The green bean salad rates a Ned. There wasn’t anything special about it – just cold green beans with some sesame seeds. There is a soy dressing, but it is so watery it doesn’t stick to the beans. They were rather boring, so I put Tabasco on these too.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg

ImprovGal had a chicken salad and it sounds like a Ned salad – she will need to clarify. Like a lot of Disney salads these days, it was mostly lettuce.

Would love to see the parents try to keep the kids from putting their hands all over the soft drink dispensers. There was one kid pouring soda into his hand from the dispenser and slurping it out of his hand.

It was not as good as a grilled cheese with Polynesian slaw from Captain Cooks, but if you like fish I do recommend the fish sandwich.

Cava del Tequila
Stopped by here during a rainstorm. This place gets really busy when it rains. This is the Durazna margarita, with peach. It is good. Another one for the sweet margarita lovers.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0732.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Dinner: Sanaa

This can be the first installment of Eatin’ with a Vegan. That isn’t someone who comes from the planet Vega. Vegans do not eat animal products of any kind. Disney restaurants are usually pretty good at accomodating my vegan friend who is joining us tonight and tomorrow. Sanaa has a separate menu with all the vegan-safe choices listed, and Chef Rich also offered to make an appetizer and some salads that were vegan- approved. We have a party of 5 eating at Sanaa tonight.

I like the Sanaa wine flights. They have a very good selection of wines from all over. You get three wines with your flight, and they are pretty good amounts in each glass. My selection for tonight is the Port Elizabeth flight. You will not find that one on the food menu but it is on the special wine flight menu. This is a flight of relatively sweet whites – a Riesling (Fess Parker), a Gewurtztraminer and a viognier. They were out of the Gewurtztraminer and substituted a second riesling. This one was very sweet, as opposed to the Fess Parker which I think is one of the drier rieslings. I did a wine tasting on the Disney Magic where it was said that sweet wines go really well with spicy food. I like spicy accompaniments to the bread service and the sweet wines are great with those.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0734.jpg

The bread service is for two persons. You get three types of bread and you can choose from naan, roti, paratha, or paneer paratha (with cheese). For you vegans out there, the only vegan bread is the paratha (not the cheese version.) As for the accompaniments, you can order three with your bread service. Our group got two bread services and a round of vegan paratha, and six accompaniments – onion and mint raita (yogurt sauce), mango and lime pickle, garlic and ginger pickle, mango chutney, coriander chutney, and tamarind sauce. All of these are vegan except the raita. Chef Rich also brought some vegan hummus.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0735.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0736.jpg
And here to show how much I love the naan bread with accompaniments:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

My side dish: Spinach with paneer cheese.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0738.jpg

I love this stuff. I ordered it awhile back and they brought it cold so I was sort of afraid to order it again, but this time I am staying at Kidani and if it’s cold all I have to do is take it upstairs and microwave it and have it for a midnight snack, so I ordered some. It’s lightly spiced cooked spinach with tomatoes and cubes of paneer cheese.
I like this stuff so much I have a Burns for it.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

My dinner entrée: Sustainable Fish in Banana Leaf
They make a great show of unwrapping the fish so you can eat it. Before:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0737.jpg

After:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0739.jpg

The Sustainable Fish that’s being sustained this week is halibut. I like halibut, so I ordered this again – and to see how it compared to the halibut sandwich I had at lunch which was exxxxxxxxcellent. This is good, too. Halibut is a nice mild white fish. The fish had some flavor from being cooked with a little spice and some lime slices in the banana leaf, but it tasted nice and light. Because I like some more spice, I put some leftover chutneys on it – the coriander is great with the fish and so is the mango.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Our server let us know that Sanaa will be changing its menu up a bit at the end of October and the fish won’t be in a banana leaf anymore – they will serve it the way the regular fish dish (not the sandwich) is served at lunch, but at dinner it will be accompanied by shrimp and scallops. Sounds good. They will also be adding an eggplant dish. Looking forward to trying them.

We didn’t order any desserts – after all this food it wasn’t in the cards to have desserts.

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 08:04 PM

Sunday, September 6

La Cava del Tequila

Had to go for a last hurrah (until the food and wine festival) at The Ditch of Tequila. If you’re in Epcot stop in and say hi to Jamie, Rafael, Hector and Pepe, the bartenders.

They have a tequila named after Frida Kahlo and she appears on the backs of some of the chairs. Maybe this is Unibrow as opposed to Unibroue.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0743.jpg

One day I will have to try a shot of Frida. But today I am going out with the Pepino margarita.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0745.jpg

This one has cucumber and agave nectar (agave nectar is a good vegan ingredient by the way). It’s a little strange, but the more I drink it, the better I like it. I believe this one is also the strongest specialty margarita I’ve had so far, with the exception of the one they threw an extra shot in for my birthday. It’s in my top three – my top three are the Naranja Roja (blood orange), Aguacate (avocado), and the Pepino (cucumber), but I have enjoyed all seven margaritas I tried here over the past 9 days.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

My lunch was an order of guacamole (they really have some good guacamole and it has already received a Full Monty Burns) and shrimp cocktail.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0748.jpg

They bring you these four beautiful little shrimp shooters. They’re fun! And tasty, too.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Go and sit in the table in the back corner and you can have some fun with the Avenging Angel of Tequila.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0744.jpg

This little guy is hanging up in the far right-hand corner of the seating area looking like he’s about to dive into your guacamole. I think we took about five photos of him, when you’re drinking a big margarita he’s just that funny.

We also got some chips and salsa. They are not on the menu and you need to ask for them. They cost $3.50.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0746.jpg

The downfall of The Ditch appears to be vegetarians and vegans. My friend tried to get something prepared that she could eat, and the best they could do was bring her a salad, which was a big pile of various greens and some oil and vinegar. She can’t eat the chips because they’re cooked in oil containing lard. So are the chicharrones accompanying the guacamole. The salsa was okay for vegans. All the other appetizers contain seafood or chicken, except for the fruit and vegetable enchilada, and there was some concern with what the tortilla was cooked in and what type of sweetener was used. (You meat eaters out there – note that The Ditch doesn’t have any red meat appetizers). She does think that some if not all of the margaritas might be OK for vegans due to the use of agave nectar for sweetening, but she didn’t ask about them, so vegans should check with the bartender.

The Epcot Wine Walk

You can now do a wine walk at Epcot if you’re touring the countries like we were. The participating countries are Germany, Italy and France. You can buy a wine walk card at any of these countries for $20, carry it with you, and at each of the three countries listed you can get half-glasses of two different wines. Pictures of wine aren’t really that interesting, so I didn’t photograph the wines. The German pavilion poured the wine into the tiny glasses used for tasting portions at the festival, but they filled them up, not stopping at the tasting portion line. France and Italy both used regular sized plastic wine glasses and filled them about halfway. You can take both wines with you, or you can take one, then come back and get the other one. They stamp the card for each wine you get. The upshot is that you receive the equivalent of 3 full glasses of wine for $20 (six half glasses). It isn’t a bad deal for Epcot.

It’s two whites in Germany (Liebfraumilch and a riesling), a pinot grigio and Rosa Regale from Italy, and a white and a red in France.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0752.jpg
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

‘Ohana

I’m going to start by getting the bad stuff out of the way first, not that it was food-related bad. ‘Ohana is probably the messiest restaurant in all of WDW. We had a late seating and were among the last to leave and you would not believe the mess in that place. The other problem was the servers – we had two that worked our table, and one was frantic and the other surly.

The good stuff –
This is our (blurry) view.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0785.jpg

We got a table right by the window with a very good view of Wishes at MK. It’s a long way off but I think the view here is better than the California Grill.

This is a Backscratcher.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0762.jpg
That refers to both the drink and the thing sticking out of it. The drink is two kinds of rum, passion fruit juice and a Jack Daniels floater. Use the straw, don’t sip from the glass, or you get straight Jack. And you get to keep the handy bamboo backscratcher. I do like practical drinks.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

This is Chef TJ.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0791.jpg
Vegans love TJ, and he loves vegans. If you are a vegan or vegetarian TJ will make up a really amazing meal for you. He used to do this when he works at Boma, and he still does it at ‘Ohana. So bring along a vegan friend if you really want to know what Chef TJ has to offer. (He’s doing a culinary demo at the Food & Wine Festival on September 30 if you want to see him break loose from the menu.)

Because we had someone with dietary restrictions in the party, they can’t serve us until the chef chats with her about the food. So we were not served until TJ was able to break away and visit the table. He says he had lots of assistants at Boma but is pretty much on his own at Ohana, so it took a little while. Be good and hungry though, because ‘Ohana means no one goes away hungry and we will feed you until you scream. Or explode, whichever comes first.

Here is the regular salad:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0765.jpg
Greens, with lime and honey dressing (obviously not vegan but good for those of us who are not). The dressing’s pretty good. Lisa:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

Chicken sticky wings and pork pot stickers:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0766.jpg
I just love these. I could buy dishes of these and eat them for dinner. I did get to eat all the pot stickers because nobody else ate pork. They’re just awesome. One Burns for both courses:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

Bowl of steamed broccoli:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0768.jpg
It’s good broccoli. But it’s just broccoli.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

The Infamous Noodles:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0770.jpg
They’re infamous because they replaced those scalloped potatoes that people seemed to love so much. I was not a fan. I like the noodles but they’re not as good as the wings and stickers. Lisa
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

It’s hard to take photos of the meats. There is beef, turkey, pork and shrimp on skewers. If you have an aversion to meat, be careful here, because they carry the skewers around and plop them on the table to ask if we wanted any. The table’s small and the meat is very close to those who have aversions and the servers yell “Don’t you want any meat?”
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0772.jpg

I didn’t try the pork. But here’s my rundown on the skewers:

Beef: Ned
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratingok.jpg
It was cooked okay and tasted okay, but had fat and chewy gristle. Big no no for me. If I can’t cut it, then I can’t chew it.

Turkey: Lisa
Cooked pretty well. It was still a bit juicy. Nice spices.
Shrimp: Lisa
I love the grilled shrimp. But you have to peel them, and they are incredibly messy.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 08:05 PM

Bread Pudding with Banana Sauce:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0790.jpg
This is always a Burns. Only problem with it was 1) I was full, and 2) the server said my vegan friend could eat it because there was no vegan dessert. WRONG. TJ did have a vegan dessert.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/burns.jpg

And now, the special vegan lineup from Chef TJ:

Vegan salad, with nuts and honey-free dressing
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0767.jpg

Vegan veggie wrap:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0777.jpg

Ginger-coriander peanut soup:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0786.jpg

Seared bok choy with mushrooms, pomegranate and vegan sriracha (chili sauce):
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0787.jpg

Tower Of Tempura (and tofu):
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0788.jpg

Pre-dessert palate cleanser (lychee, coconut sorbet and cucumber – sounds weird but it’s really good)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0789.jpg

Skewer O’Dessert (all vegan):
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0793.jpg

With TJ in the house, the vegan meal was in a lot of ways much tastier than the regular meal! The Tower of Tempura in particular was awesome! So was the seared bok choy, and the coconut sorbet with lychee and cucumber.

Shenanigoat

09-07-2009, 08:11 PM

Wow, that makes me want to eat there and say I'm vegan- just to get that special food.:cloud9:

TDC Nala

09-07-2009, 08:45 PM

And here is the cumulative scoring:

Tangierine Café: 1 Lisa
Wolfgang Puck Café: 1 Ned
Belle Vue Lounge: 1 Lisa
Flying Fish: 3 Burns
La Cava del Tequila: 6 Lisas, 5 Burns
Brown Derby: 5 Lisas
Sanaa: 5 Burns, 2 Lisas
Coral Reef: 1 Lisa, 1 Burns
California Grill: 3 Burns
Le Cellier: 2 Lisas, 1 Burns
Jiko: 17 Burns, 3 Lisas (Dinner Series except for 1 Burns)
Mythos: 3 Lisas, 2 Release the Hounds
Tchoup Chop: 16 Burns
Contempo Café: 1 Lisa, 1 Ned
Epcot Wine Walk: 1 Lisa
Ohana: 5 Lisas, 2 Burns, 1 Ned (regular menu. vegan menu not rated)

Most Burns: Jiko
Best Overall: Tchoup Chop
Most Lisas: La Cava del Tequila
Release the Hounds Award: Mythos

Total Burns Awarded: 48
Total Lisas Awarded: 31
Total Neds Awarded: 3
Total Hound Releases: 2

PNO4TE

09-07-2009, 09:22 PM

The vegan meal at 'Ohana looked amazingly creative. How lucky Chef TJ is so willing to work with guests!

I would say you did pretty well on this trip, Catherine. You had a lot of decent food and not many dogs!

disneyfav4ever

09-08-2009, 01:20 AM

You ate really well this week! I really enjoyed your reviews. I do have one question though. I do prefer sweeter fruitier margaritas, which one(s) would you recommend, there are a couple that caught my eye, but if you had to rank them how would you rank these three, passion fruit, blood orange, and peach.

disney_princess_85

09-08-2009, 06:29 AM

LOVED the 'Ohana review! I'm a vegetarian so I'm hoping for some good food. Does anyone know if Chef TJ works on Tuesdays?

mommy in wonderland

09-08-2009, 07:49 AM

Thanks for all the time you put into your review. Love the pics and it has confirmed my choices for our trip! :goodvibes

ChelleinNC

09-08-2009, 08:36 AM

Alas, I have come to bury Caesar, not to praise it.

But first -- the soup!

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0709.jpg

I've had the tortilla soup before it was just as good as before. The soup tasted fresh, had just enough spice to give the sour cream garnish something to cool, and had the rim of the bowl liberally dusted with cumin, which I pushed into the soup to give it extra cuminy goodness.

I give the soup a Lisa.
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/simpsonsratinggood.jpg

And now the salad.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/CIMG0710.jpg

Caesar salads appear on the menu of nearly every restaurant in the US. With something that ubiquitous, it's amazing how broadly inconsistent its recipe can be. I opted to add on the shrimp to my salad. They tasted fine and were cooked perfectly, although I don't think they were quite worth the surcharge that amounted to nearly $2 per shrimp. The prize was at the bottom of the bowl -- wood grilled pitas that had been brushed with olive oil. They were smoky and delicious.

Unfortunately, those tasty pita wedges were buried in the blandest caesar salad I've ever tasted. I suspect no anchovies or garlic had been harmed in the making of the dressing. The shredded cheese on top did nothing to enhance the flavor either and in hindsight I suspect it may have even been a parmesan imposter (maybe mozzarella?). Perhaps TDCNala's fifty cents was enough to bribe the Kraft grated parmesan off my salad and onto her fries.
I hate to rob pitas to rate all but I'm sending the whole dish to the hounds.

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a88/cathlam/releasethehounds.jpg

It really didn't help that service was also painfully sloooooow. Perhaps we've gotten too acclimated to the expedited service in the table service of the Disney parks.

If I return to Mythos in the future, I'll spare Caesar and beware the sides of starch.

I'm not sure if I should say "great review" or not :confused3 Let's go with "love the writing, sorry the food sucked" :goodvibes