Disney Dining Deluxe Doesn't Do Us In -- a week in heaven with photos

[bleeps]

Hello!

I had been thinking maybe I waited too long to get a relevant dining review done, but I decided today that a mere two month delay wasn't enough to stop me! We celebrated DH's 50th birthday with a mid-August trip; in time to take advantage of a 4/3 offer, and *just* ahead of free dining (that started two days before we checked out).

We are myself, DH, and DS 11, and we love to eat at WDW!

I'll review:
Yorkshire County Fish Shop, lunch (page 1)
Teppan Edo, dinner (page 1)
Kona Cafe, breakfast (page 1)
Tony's Town Square, lunch (page 1)
Restaurant Marrakesh, dinner (page 1)
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater, lunch (page 1)
Yachtsman Steakhouse, dinner (page 1)
Yak & Yeti, lunch (twice!) (both on page 2)
Royal Anandapur Tea Company (page 2)
Jiko, dinner (page 3)
Coral Reef, lunch (page 3)
Citricos, dinner (page 3)
Le Cellier, dinner (page 4)
Les Chefs de France, dinner (page 4)
Crystal Palace, breakfast (page 4)
Captain's Grille, lunch (and notes about breakfast) (page 5)

To begin, then, "fish and chips in England!", as soon as we arrived in Epcot on our first day:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0019.jpg

Food: A
Fresh, perfectly fried fish in a very generous portion and great fries -- can't go wrong! A family sitting near us was visiting from England and also gave the meal the thumb's up.
Service: CS, just fine
Atmosphere: oh, dear, but it was hot (the story of the whole trip -- we thought we knew what hot, humid, and August meant before we left, but we learned. Oh, we learned!). The little umbrella area was splendid (just to the right of the restaurant, and we just had to acclimate to the heat.
Value: $37

[bleeps]

Next, Teppan Edo for dinner:
This place is another one of our standards for every trip. While it is possible to have less than stellar experiences depending on the group you get seated with, we generally manage to overlook screaming children and arguing adults as best we can and just enjoy the show.
For appetizers:
I had the garden salad with ginger dressing, which couldn't have been more perfect -- crisp greens, lovely dressing, great combination of flavors
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0086.jpg
DS had miso soup, which he always loves, and this wasn't as salty as some can be so he especially enjoyed it
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0087.jpg
DH had peel n eat edamame, which is one of his favorites (you can't really do anything to steamed soybeans to mess them up)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0088.jpg
Our chef was very engaging (again, this is a big variable and it makes a difference in how your meal goes)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0091.jpg
Entrees were:
Scallops for DH (which he apparently gobbled down so quickly that I didn't get a photo!),
and filet mignon for me and DS (which I barely managed to capture before it was gone)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0105.jpg

I keep forgetting (b/c I forgot to take a photo) that DH and I both had the green tea pudding for dessert -- out of this world!!! DO try it, no matter what; it is heavenly.

Food: A+
Service: Outstanding: both the chef and the cm who took care of the table were both wonderful
Atmosphere: B
The family sharing the table with us was nice enough, but the other table in the room was filled with drunken adults and screaming, screaming children. Even so, we did manage to ignore them pretty well and we like the new rooms/set-up since this place was recently renovated.
Value: $122, plus we spent $24 on some incredible sake

[GovieMom]

Love the report so far ... great pics! Can't wait to read the rest; thanks for posting!

[bleeps]

Kona Cafe for breakfast

This is another one of our perennial favorites, and we have breakfast here every trip. This time, I treated myself to the press pot of kona coffee, and since the DxDDP gives you two beverages for breakfast, this was included on the plan. I'm not posting a photo since I figure you know what coffee looks like; this was fabulous, and if it ever isn't included on the dining plan I'd pay for it OOP. The cm who waited on us was nice enough to offer me a to-go cup for the leftovers, but I passed since I'd had my daily quota by that point.

Now on to the food!
I had the Samoan, which is poached eggs with Hollandaise served over smoked pulled pork hash. Oh, makes me want to go back tomorrow!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0132.jpg
DH went for his traditional favorite of a ham and cheese omelette:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0133.jpg
DS had pancakes
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0134.jpg

Food: A
This remains my favorite breakfast on property, and we love getting there right when they open so we have the place to ourselves for a while.
Service: A
Great cm (Jackie) -- knew exactly how to take care of breakfast guests (why do some not seem to understand that I want. my. coffee. now.?)
Atmosphere: A
Love the dark, understated colors and the open-air feeling
Value: $47

[bleeps]

Tony's Town Square

We'd given up on Tony's for a while; after a good first experience in 2003, a subsequent visit was so disappointing that we took it out of rotation for a while. But we decided it was time to try again, and we were delighted!

First off, getting there just before they opened for lunch turned out to earn us an extra delight -- the barbershop quartet that entertains around Main Street was there to do a few numbers. Since I took eleventymillion pictures of everything else on this trip, I'm not sure why I didn't take any of them, but it was just a delightful way to wait for the place to open.

DS and DH shared the antipasto platter, and managed to dig into it so quickly that I missed getting a picture. I also managed to forget to take a photo of my mixed green salad. We all were in the mood for some cold, crispy veggies and everything really hit the spot.

I had the "blanco flatbread", basically a white pizza (no sauce, just cheese and basil)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0267.jpg
DS went for spaghetti and sausage
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0268.jpg
DH had baked eggplant ziti, and once again somehow I managed to miss the photo before he'd eaten so much that, trust me, you didn't want to see what it looked like.

DH and I had dessert, and DS passed (he did that a lot on this trip -- I don't know how I managed to raise a child who fills up on his meals and then says 'no thanks' to dessert!).
DH had the apple sorbet which he felt was a little odd -- just too tart for him: [edited to say: DH read this and said that the flavor itself was great -- the problem was that the apples (granny smiths) hadn't been peeled first, and that the presence of the bits of peel in the sorbet gave it an unpleasant texture]
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0270.jpg
and I had the chocolate gelato which was so, so incredibly good
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0271.jpg

Food: A
We weren't expecting a whole lot from this place, but we all so enjoyed our meals -- DH just says you might want to think twice about the apple sorbet
Service: A
Atmosphere: B-
The only slightly funky thing about this place is that we are all pretty tall, and still the seats are so low that you feel like a 5-year-old at the Thanksgiving table, barely able to sit up tall enough to get your elbows up above plate level. It's pretty enough inside, and we were seated near the fountain.
Value: $85 (we kept being grateful we were on the dining plan; meal prices do seem to have gone up to the point where you wonder how people who are not on the plan manage it)

[bleeps]

Restaurant Marrakesh

If you've ever even considered it, I highly recommend you try this place! We'd been meaning to get here for a while, but our list of favorites is so long that it can be hard to work in new places. This time, though, I was determined and we're all so glad we made it.

DS was captivated by the musicians that play both on their own and then in accompaniment to the belly dancer. He wanted his picture with them when their set was finished and they seemed genuinely happy to comply
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/deanmusicianssm.jpg
One even asked DS what instrument he played -- didn't ask "if" he played, but rightly just assumed he did -- and DS was proud to say "piano!"

For appetizers, DS had Beef Brewat Rolls (layers of thin pastry stuffed with seasoned minced beef, fried and sprinkled with cinnamon and powdered sugar), while DH and I shared the Combination Appetizer for Two (Beef Brewat Rolls, Chicken Bastilla, and Jasmin Salad)
Here's the Jasmin Salad, with slight views to the other items in the background:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0313.jpg
Another case where it all got attacked so quickly that I wasn't fast enough with the camera. I know people wonder about those beef brewat rolls, and question something with beef having powdered sugar on top, but they were SO delicious and we all just loved them. I loved the salad more than the guys did, so they ate more of the chicken bastilla.
For entrees, DH got the chicken couscous
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0318.jpg
DS got the shish kabob
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0320.jpg
And I went for lamb shank couscous
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0317.jpg
In case you're not familiar with it, couscous is a tiny pasta -- small like little grains of rice (only smaller!) and very tasty as it picks up all the juices and flavors of the foods served on top of it. DH felt that the chicken couscous was good but very basic (keep that in mind if you think you have to be adventurous to eat here -- because you really don't!), I very much enjoyed the lamb shank (not something I would ever make at home), but the shish kabob was THE hit of the night!

The best move of the evening I made was to ask the waiter for a wine recommendation to go with my lamb. I failed to write it down, but he recommended an African red wine that was the perfect match. Sometimes it really does pay -- if you feel as though you have a good rapport with your server -- to ask for advice on things. I've certainly never regretted it, and have been steered to some things I never would have tried otherwise.

We were so stuffed that we all passed on dessert. We did feel the offerings were just a little too similar to the textures of the start of the meal (pastry layers), and both DH and DS can't deal with the smell of mint (the fresh fruit option is mint-laden).

Food: A+
(although keep in mind that the chicken dinner is a chicken dinner -- not the thing to go for if you're looking to branch out)
Service: A+
We find that in the World Showcase places, if you chat a little and show some genuine interest in the cuisine and the country, you can make some wonderful connections with the cm
Atmosphere: A+
The place is beautiful. I'll let you discover for yourself how much fun the belly dancer is....
Value: $137

[bleeps]

Sci-Fi Dine In Theater

We tried this place back when DS was 6, and he hated it! He'd been traumatized by the funky black and white clips of old horror/sci-fi films. He'd talk about the experience as one of the really awful things we'd "done" to him (that and the first time on Snow White's Scary Adventures -- took him years to forgive us for that!)

Anyway, DS decided fairly last-minute that he'd be willing to give this another shot, and DH was thrilled (he loves those awful old movies).

There's a reason this place is famous for onion rings:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0428.jpg

DH and I both started with mixed greens salads with ranch dressing
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0431.jpg

While we enjoy using DxDDP, we aren't a shakes-with-the-meal kind of family. That's why you haven't seen me posting beverage photos; we usually go for water, or iced tea -- sometimes a coke -- and DS almost always has white milk.

DS had a burger, and he did a great job eating nearly the whole thing:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0435.jpg

I had the turkey club, and it was my most disappointing meal of the trip -- it looked fine, but it just did not taste like anything:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0436.jpg

DH had the shrimp pasta, and I let him use the camera to take the photo and it, um, just didn't come out. He said his dish was ok but not great.

We made a mistake on dessert. We'd decided we were full and didn't want a thing, but the cm insisted -- just absolutely insisted -- that she would wrap up 3 peanut-butter chocolate cakes to go "because you've already paid for them with the plan and everyone loves them!" We carted the very warm bag around with us that afternoon -- it had to be almost 100 degrees out. We were so full and so hot that the last thing we wanted to contemplate was oozy chocolate desserts, and we realized by that point that given how long we'd been walking around with them, they probably weren't safe to eat anymore anyway. With heavy hearts, we trashed them.

We realized afterwards that the cm's motivation was a bigger bill on which her tip would be calculated. It's so hard with the whole tips issue and the dining plans; we remember lots of mediocre service when the tips were included, and now it's tough when you've got some cms pushing food to get the bill up and the tips really do add up to a significant amount of money over the course of the trip. I guess our vote, sigh, would be to go back to including the tips in the plan -- but no option is perfect.

Food: C
DS loved those onion rings and his burger, but overall this was the weakest meal of the trip. The cars are cute, but I don't like sitting in a seat behind my family (only 2 to a row).
Service: C
No, thank you, we do NOT want dessert.
Atmosphere: B
It's cute, it's worth doing once, but I don't think we'll go back
Value: $109 (:scared1:)

[dizneeat]

Great review so far! Can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

[bleeps]

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/famportak2009-2.jpg

I realized that in my typical haste to get this job done, I wasn't saying very much about us as a family, about our overall approach to Disney, or about our feelings about the dining plans (other than the tipping thing). So here's a little catch-up!

We made our first visit to WDW to celebrate DS' 5th birthday. I honestly believed that would be our one-and-only Disney vacation. We all so totally fell in love with the place that we started planning our return trip on the plane ride home. We live in the Boston area.

I would like to think that we have appropriate levels of expectations for our Disney trips, and I think that makes a difference in the kinds of dining reviews we're providing. We keep in mind that we are eating these most of these meals in a theme park -- and it's not all burgers and fries! -- but it's still theme park food! We expect food to be fresh, hot (or cold), and tasty. We are not picky eaters (I think you've already had a little bit of a sense of how adventurous DS is at 11; I believe WDW is partly to thank for that, given that he became an 'adult' diner at 10 and started to think about things other than chicken nuggets for dinner!).

Anyway, we don't start any experience with the intent of being critical. We start every experience believing that it's going to be good, that we're going to enjoy ourselves, and that we understand the big picture (yup -- eating meals in theme parks!). If we don't like something we'll say so. Our expectations are higher for the signature meals, and we'll get to those.

We go with the deluxe dining plan because (1) we like to have appetizers and desserts at least available to us, (2) we like going more table service than counter service, so we like that it's up to us and we don't have to hoard TS credits, (3) we LOVE having the vacation, including meals, paid for in advance and (4) for me, anyway, I like being able to just look at a menu and order what appeals to me (rather than my 'real life' habit of picking something less expensive to save money).

[bleeps]

On, then, to dinner at Yachtsman Steakhouse.

Yacht Club is our most favorite resort, and we stayed there again this trip. We love the short walk to Epcot, SAB pool, and the overall quiet atmosphere. We make pretty good use of the resort -- this trip, we swam every day, and actually used the refillable mugs that came with the package. Breakfasts were often morning beverages in the mugs, and we used snack credits for things like muffins, bagels, and yogurt.

But on to dinner!

We've eaten at Yachtsman's before and loved it. I think being able to have a nice, big meal, with some lovely wine, and then being able to walk up to your own room is just such a treat. One weird thing, though, about WDW menus overall is how repetitious they are -- we encountered filet mignon at *just* about every meal, it seemed.

First, though, the appetizers!
Chilled Seafood Salad - Lobster, Shrimp and Jumbo Crab with Lemon Creme Fraiche and Avocado Cream for me -- this was excellent, with the seafood perfectly cooked (sometimes when it's cold, in a salad, it can get a little rubbery, but that was definitely not the case)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0488.jpg
Cheese plate for DS
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0490.jpg
and tomato salad stack for DH -- this kind of salad absolutely depends on perfectly fresh, flavorful ingredients and this one did not disappoint!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0489.jpg
All were fantastic -- fresh, beautifully presented. DS loves a cheese plate and enjoyed each of these tastes.

Filet mignon all around:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0491.jpg
Side of mac 'n' cheese
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0492.jpg
Somehow, we missed the fact that the steaks came with potatoes (so many high end steak houses these days make all the sides ala carte!). Too much food, but all juicy, tender, and delicious.

DH ordered his filet medium, while DS and I both went medium-rare. These steaks were beautiful -- tender, very flavorful, and perfectly cooked. I wish I'd registered the name of our cm who served us -- he was so professional and engaging, without being overly in-your-face or anything. [edited to add: Mana -- his name was Mana -- I found the receipt that always has the cm's name on it.] He was very kind to and complimentary about DS (telling him he was making very grown-up choices, doing a good job on his meal, etc.). The one slight issue I have with all the restaurants at WDW these days -- even the signatures -- is that they are so booked up that they do need to move you in and out pretty swiftly. This cm did a better job than some others we had during the week of pacing the meal, but for the most part our appetizers would arrive just moments after we had our drinks, entrees would come when we were still working on appetizers, and the offer to take the dessert order would come when we were still working on our meals (with the desserts then served basically right on top of the entrees). I understand the dynamics here -- WDW has got to get as many guests in and served as possible and they are booked for the entire meal service every day, but we would have liked basically every meal we had to be just a bit less rushed, if that were possible.

My dessert was the trio of Valrhona Chocolate - peanut, espresso, and salted caramel -- perfectly sized for each of us to have a taste of each one
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0494.jpg
DH had Sorbet Trio -- passion fruit, plant city strawberry, and lemon basil -- he wasn't sure if he'd like the lemon basil but found it refreshing and delicious
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0495.jpg
DS didn't see anything on the menu that caught his eye, so the cm offered to bring him a treat from the children's menu -- the mickey and minnie white chocolate dessert puzzle
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0496.jpg

That gives me a good opportunity to say that all the cms during the week were really good about, after confirming that DS was on the plan as an 'adult,' offering him any flexibility to his entrees or desserts that he wanted. At this meal, aside from offering him an alternate dessert, the cm also offered him fries instead of potatoes with his steak which DS was all over (as flexible and adventurous as he is, he may be one of the only kids out there who turns his nose up at mashed potatoes).

Food: A+
Everything was so good, and so beautifully prepared! I failed to write down the wine we had (DH and I each had a glass), but again I highly recommend talking with your server and letting him or her make suggestions. DH knows a lot about wine, but that doesn't mean he's going to be familiar with every vineyard or every year that's represented on a menu.
Service: A+
Again, although he did a great job, I understand that the pacing of this and every meal is being dictated by the management and by the number of guests who need to be served at every meal -- so I don't fault our cm on that front.
Value:
$294 -- although looking at this, in DH's handwriting, I realize that he must have written the entire total, with wine and the extra side dishes. Sorry about that.

We skipped Yachtsman on our previous trip because we just couldn't fit it in, but we all agreed that whenever we're staying at YC -- especially -- we have to eat here!

[Dis_Yoda]

Great reviews so far!

It seems Sci-Fi fails for anything but the burgers which is sad as it used to be awesome. I remember the multipage menus and the popcorn though.

The deluxe worked well for us also our last trip. We also weren't afraid about ordering side dishes in addition to our meals or the adult beverages.

[KatMark]

Loving your reviews thus far and can't wait for the rest.

[jeminni]

Great reviews :goodvibes

[Ciciwoowoo]

I think its great that your son is so adventurous in his eating! My son is more of a standard fare type (he's 12) and trying to get him to try something new is like pulling teeth!

[Lynn5700]

Great reviews! How is the mac and cheese from Yachtsman? It looks sooooo good!

[GusT]

great reviews!! i hope to do the DxDP next time we go. this upcoming trip will be our third on the DDP

[vettegirl]

Great reviews, looking forward to the rest!

[janeapplemeadow]

Really enjoying your reviews and your pics are great. It sounds like you were at Disney the same time I was, every day with the heat index 100 degrees. Nothing like the MA weather we have been having now.

[bleeps]

Great reviews! How is the mac and cheese from Yachtsman? It looks sooooo good!

I'll tell you -- that mac and cheese was outstanding! It includes some shaved truffle bits (very intense, rich mushrooms, essentially) and is rich and creamy beyond belief. We wouldn't have ordered it if we'd been paying attention and realized that the steaks came with potatoes, but we did all enjoy having some of the mac!

[bleeps]

Great reviews so far!

It seems Sci-Fi fails for anything but the burgers which is sad as it used to be awesome. I remember the multipage menus and the popcorn though.

The deluxe worked well for us also our last trip. We also weren't afraid about ordering side dishes in addition to our meals or the adult beverages.

Yes -- on the last trip, DS was given a little 'driver's license' that was a really sweet little touch; it seems as though all those kinds of extras are gone. I wouldn't mind if they even consolidated their menu and JUST featured burgers -- if you're going to do something, might as well do it right!

Sounds, too, as though your approach to DxDDP is the same as ours -- we have it, and then we sit down and order what it is we'd like to have for a meal without worrying if it is or isn't on the plan and it all works out very nicely!

[bleeps]

Great review so far! Can't wait to hear more! :goodvibes

Thanks! Do ask questions, if you have any!

[bleeps]

I think its great that your son is so adventurous in his eating! My son is more of a standard fare type (he's 12) and trying to get him to try something new is like pulling teeth!

We all honestly believe that WDW had in hand in getting DS to branch out. When he was under 10 and on the child's dining plan, he'd get pretty burned out on hot dogs, or chicken nuggets, for basically every meal. We'd end up sharing our meals with him, or just having him order off the adult menu (cms were very good about figuring out just how flexible they could be with the child credits, and we didn't worry about what it was going to take to give him a decent meal).

Anyway, he was really looking forward to being an 'adult' on the plan -- this was his second trip as an adult (or, person over 10!). We gave him lots of opportunities to help plan the trip and look at menus ahead of time, and we would always encourage him to talk with our cm if he had questions or wanted to amend a meal in some way ("could I please have that with the sauce on the side, or would it be possible to get a different side with that?"). We also find that the World Showcase restaurants are great for getting him to branch out -- the cuisine isn't SO authentic to the countries that it won't appeal to an American audience, and he feels very grown up to be able to say, "I love Moroccan food!" -- things like that.

I think many kids can put "toes in the water" by trying parents' meals and being encouraged to try something new. Our motto is that you never know if you in fact have found your favorite food yet if you haven't tried everything!

[bleeps]

Really enjoying your reviews and your pics are great. It sounds like you were at Disney the same time I was, every day with the heat index 100 degrees. Nothing like the MA weather we have been having now.

Too funny! We were there 8/12 to 8/19/2009. Ahead of time, we thought we knew what hot and humid was all about, and we thought we may as well be hot and uncomfortable at WDW than at home (and DH's birthday was 8/17). Whoa! It's a whole 'nuther ballgame in FL!! We'll never go during the summer again -- we'll go back to our Oct/Nov/Dec timeframe -- when it starts to get cold up here but it's still lovely down there.

Great leaf season for us, though, don't you think?

Glad you're enjoying the reviews!

[bleeps]

Two lunches at Yak & Yeti

We'd been to Yak & Yeti on our previous trip; DH loved it so much that he was adamant about going twice this trip (and given that the guy was turning 50, I figured he had the right to insist!). We had lunch here on his birthday and a few days beforehand; I'm not sure what the odds were, but we were seated at the same table both times!!

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0245-1.jpg

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0161.jpg

First visit, here were the appetizers:
I had the pork pot stickers and DS shared them with me; these are a huge step above the pot stickers we get from our local Chinese restaurant. The wonton skins are very thin and delicate, the meat is incredibly tasty, and I love the soy/lime dipping sauce
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0246.jpg
DH had the fried green beans because he'd tasted the ones I'd ordered last year and had been dreaming about them ever since -- these did not disappoint!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0247.jpg

Second visit, though, was even better!
I had the seared ahi tuna, which was served cold -- the flavor and texture just could not have been more perfect on a hot day. This will be what I will dream about until we get back there next year!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0162.jpg
DH had the Lettuce Cups - minced chicken breast, chopped vegetables, maple tamarind sauce, crisp lettuce cups; this is what he had ordered last year and he did enjoy it (his dream would be that one person orders the fried green beans, one person orders lettuce cups -- he'll have to see if DS will get in on that action with him since I know I'm gettin' the tuna!)
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0163.jpg
DS got his own order of the pot stickers and he did a pretty decent job on them all by himself!

First visit, the entrees:
I had the Mandarin Chicken Salad - chilled chicken, romaine and iceburg lettuce, Mandarin oranges, almonds, sesame seeds, rice noodles and plum dressing. I wanted something light, but was a little disappointed -- the quality of the chicken wasn't great -- it was a little dry -- but I did enjoy the rest of the salad part.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0249.jpg
DS had ribs, which is what he'd ordered last year, and they were still as tender and delicious as he remembered
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0250.jpg
DH had the seared miso salmon and absolutely loved it
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0251.jpg

Second visit entrees:
Learning from last visit, this time I went for the crispy mahi mahi, and it was sensational. The portion size was just right, and the fish was cooked perfectly.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0165.jpg
DS had stir-fried beef with broccoli and rice, and he said he's going to have a hard time deciding between this and the ribs on our next visit -- the beef was very tender and tasty
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0166.jpg
DH had his beloved salmon again and enjoyed it just as much the second time around.

For desserts, both times DS was too full from his meal to order dessert, and both times DH and I each ordered the mango, lemon, and raspberry sorbet trio. These are unbelievably refreshing -- just the right thing to set you up before heading back out into the heat!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0252.jpg

We all love AK and easily visit two or three times during the course of a week's vacation. The themes of each area are so incredibly well thought-out, we totally enjoy all the opportunities to see and interact with animals (if you've never seen the Flights of Wonder show, please do make the effort!) and of course EE. It always makes me a little sad to hear people say negative things about this park; I mean, certainly to each his own, but this is one that is SO rewarding if you're willing to slow down and give it a chance to work its charms on you.

Anyway, back to the food wrap ups! I'll just do one overall rating:

Food: A
With the exception of the chicken salad, everything was terrific (and the rest of that salad really was very good). I know what to order next time!
Service: B
No complaints -- the cms did a good job for us, but nothing to write home about.
Atmosphere: A
We do like the theme in here, and we feel the layout does a good job of getting a lot of people in to the place without making you feel like you're crammed in -- lots of separate areas for seating.
Value: First meal was $87, second was $138

[bleeps]

Royal Anandapur Tea Company

OK -- so I told you how much our family loves AK. PART of the reason has become visits to the Royal Anandapur Tea Company even though -- gasp! -- it does not take dining plan credits!!

On two mornings, we hit AK at rope drop, rode EE (well, I have ridden it, but I'm not a rollercoaster-first-thing-in-the-morning kind of person so it was really DS and DH), and then stopped here for our breakfast.

Um, we all kinda live for the frozen cappucinos:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0023.jpg
I don't want to know how many calories they are, I don't want to consider whether or not a good parent allows her child to drink cappucinos for breakfast, I just know that these are a highlight of our trips.

And since calories and good parenting have already been thrown to the wind, why not add in a cinnamon roll?
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0020.jpg

Oh yeah, baby.

Again, we feel that AK rewards those who are willing to slow down and get off the beaten track. Even though the August crowds were unlike anything we'd ever experienced before, both times we had no problem walking a little ways away from the Tea Company shack and finding quiet, peaceful, otherwise empty places to sit and enjoy our "breakfasts."
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0066.jpg

[Lynn5700]

I'll tell you -- that mac and cheese was outstanding! It includes some shaved truffle bits (very intense, rich mushrooms, essentially) and is rich and creamy beyond belief. We wouldn't have ordered it if we'd been paying attention and realized that the steaks came with potatoes, but we did all enjoy having some of the mac!

Ooh so which are better? The potatoes or mac, lol!! We're going here on our next trip and I want to get that steak.


I cannot wait to try Yak & Yeti!!!!!! We are going there for lunch for the first time.

[bleeps]

Ooh so which are better? The potatoes or mac, lol!! We're going here on our next trip and I want to get that steak.


I cannot wait to try Yak & Yeti!!!!!! We are going there for lunch for the first time.

Gosh -- I'd say that the specialness of the mac makes it better than the mashed potatoes, BUT with as rich as the meat is, I may have regretted ONLY having the mac alongside (just so much rich, intense flavor going on). How many in your group? You may want to just get one side of the mac and share it around; that would be my recommendation. And the steaks really are fabulous.

Hope you enjoy Yak & Yeti as much as we always do!

[bleeps]

great reviews!! i hope to do the DxDP next time we go. this upcoming trip will be our third on the DDP

I do recommend the deluxe plan. As I mentioned, it gives you total flexibility -- 3 meal credits a day to use however you wish, and it is nice as a treat on vacation to have the appetizer and dessert options.

The first time we used the dining plan (back when there was only one type offered), I really agonized over 'getting our money's worth.' I had spreadsheets and prices and just tortured myself over how we were going to use those credits.

Now, we just pick the places where we want to eat and use the credits anyway we choose. I do believe that WDW restaurant prices now are geared toward the use of the plans -- I cannot imagine going down there without the plan and having to pay every meal OOP at those rates.

I haven't mentioned the snack credits -- we used ours for bottles of water, dole whips, popcorn, mickey bars -- whatever we wanted whenever we wanted. And we STILL had 17 credits left on our last day! We just went to the resort gift shop and stocked up on little bags of pretzels, nuts, chocolate bars, and then I used those things in DS' lunch box after we got back. It was a nice way to kind of extend the experience for him.

Enjoy your trip!!

[MrsSpratt]

I am loving your reviews - detailed, well written, and you go to places I'm interested in trying!

I think it is wonderful that your son isn't a "chicken nuggets only" kind of guy - good parenting going on there! (I love the phrase, "you don't know your favorite food unless you've tried them all....") While I think it is great you credit Disney with helping to broaden his horizons, I suspect Momma and Daddy might have a thing or two to do with it as well....:rolleyes1

You have a lovely family - and Happy 50th DH!

Best,

Mrs. Spratt

[MrsSpratt]

I forgot to ask - have you considered taking your son to V&A's?

[Sandy321]

I really enjoy the detail and all the pictures - I really feel as if I was "back there" with you all!!

ITA with your assesment of Yachtsman - I cant wait till its our turn to return!!

Did you have wine with your meal here? We also usually go with a recomendation from our servers... and it was the only place we ate that we didnt feel that "rush" that you describe -

Thanks for sharing!

[bleeps]

I am loving your reviews - detailed, well written, and you go to places I'm interested in trying!

I think it is wonderful that your son isn't a "chicken nuggets only" kind of guy - good parenting going on there! (I love the phrase, "you don't know your favorite food unless you've tried them all....") While I think it is great you credit Disney with helping to broaden his horizons, I suspect Momma and Daddy might have a thing or two to do with it as well....:rolleyes1

You have a lovely family - and Happy 50th DH!

Best,

Mrs. Spratt

I forgot to ask - have you considered taking your son to V&A's?


How very kind of you! Makes it that much more fun to do these reviews with this kind of sweet encouragement!

Funny you mention V&As -- we are seriously considering it for our next trip. We'd love to swing the chef's table, although that might not be realistic. The major thing that's held us back? DH balks at the idea of having to bring a jacket along for the trip ("'cause then you've also got to go with the dress shoes, and shirt, and everything..."). We don't mind the 'business casual' kind of attire for the signatures. I'm working on him to do just deal with it -- have you been? I feel that it is in our futures at some point!

[bleeps]

I really enjoy the detail and all the pictures - I really feel as if I was "back there" with you all!!

ITA with your assesment of Yachtsman - I cant wait till its our turn to return!!

Did you have wine with your meal here? We also usually go with a recomendation from our servers... and it was the only place we ate that we didnt feel that "rush" that you describe -

Thanks for sharing!

I wish I had written down the wines we had -- we did always have a glass of wine with our evening meals and at Yachtsman's I know the cm made a terrific recommendation.... I'll tell you -- from remembering to take the photos, to writing down what we ate, to recording the price it would have been had we paid OOP -- I just can't seem to *quite* get it all together to also include details on the wines. Next time, I hope!!

[Dis_Yoda]

How very kind of you! Makes it that much more fun to do these reviews with this kind of sweet encouragement!

Funny you mention V&As -- we are seriously considering it for our next trip. We'd love to swing the chef's table, although that might not be realistic. The major thing that's held us back? DH balks at the idea of having to bring a jacket along for the trip ("'cause then you've also got to go with the dress shoes, and shirt, and everything..."). We don't mind the 'business casual' kind of attire for the signatures. I'm working on him to do just deal with it -- have you been? I feel that it is in our futures at some point!

The Chef's Table is wonderful! Granted a lot of money but worth it. When my husband & I went it was about $550 for my wine pairing + the meals for the both of us. But - the regular sit down table was $430 for the two of us for the wine pairing and the upgrades we got.

In fact I'm calling at 7am on Tuesday to try for the Chef's Table for our next trip. Hopefully we can get it one of the days we are there.

V&A has become a must do for us almost every trip. Of my last 10 trips, there are only 2 times we haven't gone and once it was b/c like your husband my husband (well b/f at the time) hated the idea of a jacket and the other was a short weekend trip this July that was planned last minute. My parents first took me when I was still a child (although they dont allow anyone younger than 10 nowadays) and I'm thankful I had parents that made me open my horizons for what I eat. I'm a little shocked at how much my husband's palettes have changed over the past few years as I've made him try new things as he didn't grow up eating anything 'fancy'

Once he tries it - I'm sure he wont mind having to have a jacket in the suitcase for the next time. They do have jackets you can borrow and sweaters for the ladies in case you get chilly also.

[bleeps]

Jiko

Ah, we love this place! This was our second time having dinner here, and we loved it just as much as the first time.

Our cm was Ron, and he was utterly amazing. Kind, thoughtful, there when you needed him but not hovering. Probably the most nicely paced/unrushed meal we had, but again I recognize that it's more a matter of how booked a place is than the talents of the cm. Ron was also more than willing to make wine recommendations, and we were so thrilled with what we ordered.

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0298.jpg
We've noticed over the years that the restaurants, esp. in the parks, have really been homogenized. It used to be that places like Sci-Fi had their own printed napkins -- little touches like that. Now, I would rather have prices held in line as much as possible rather than custom napkins, but I guess I would have to say overall that we've also noticed menu items being repeated over and over and a streamlining that seems to be driven by the 'bean counters' and not the people (who must be there somewhere, right?) who really care about the guest experience.

I say all this because Jiko is such a welcomed respite. Now -- you may laugh and point out that we ordered things with the same names that we've ordered before on this trip. But trust me when I say that Jiko really is different, and wonderful, and worth the trek all the way over to AKL!

DS offered to have me take his picture eating the bread, since I didn't get to photograph the basket before he and DH dug in! I promise that we did apply sunscreen, liberally, every day -- but you can see DS was a bit rosy cheeked by this point of the vacation!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0302.jpg

He (DS) did order a cheese plate for appetizers, and he's ordered that before, but this one was so delightful that it also merited a photo of the card that identified the cheeses:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0306.jpg
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0305.jpg
(Yachtsman's also provided a card to identify all the cheeses. A funny side note about DS and his love of cheese: he recently went out to dinner as the guest of another family, and I was so surprised when he said that he ordered Chicken Parmesan -- only because he'd never had it before. "What prompted you to try something new," I asked? "Well," he said, "it sounded as though it had cheese in it so I figured it HAD to be good!")

My appetizer was the cream of cauliflower soup, and I kid you not when I say this *could* just be the best soup I've ever had in my entire life
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0304.jpg
I've been trying to recreate it at home, but so far have failed to capture the complexity of flavor. Don't be afraid to try this if it's on the menu and you don't normally like cauliflower -- both DS and DH tried it and absolutely loved it and they are not cauliflower guys.

DH had the Taste of Africa -- Dips with Assorted Breads and House-made Naan. I ordered this last time and he'd wished it had been his, so here was his chance. These are all very flavorful and fun to eat as well.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0303.jpg

For entrees, DS and I both had the filet mignon with mac and cheese:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0307.jpg
Now, again you may be laughing at me and pointing out that it sounds exactly like our dinner at Yachtsman's. All I can tell you is that the preparation here really is different -- that the two meals were both outstanding and that the did NOT taste exactly the same. The red wine sauce on this is just heavenly -- even DS loves it -- and the way the beef is subtly spiced/flavored makes this it's own very special event.
DH had Grilled Swordfish - with Crisp Mealie Pap, Roasted Brussel Sprouts, and Cilantro-red Curry Sauce and ate every. last. bite. I'm not quite sure how to describe the mealie pap; sure it doesn't sound too tasty, but it was a finely ground corn meal patty and set off the fish perfectly.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0308.jpg

And yes, we all somehow managed to go with dessert!
I had the pistachio creme brulee. I know this sounds counter-intuitive, but the fact is that it was fantastic, but I just wish there were less of it. What I mean is that I was so full from the amazing dinner that there was no way I could even come close to doing justice to this -- I would have been fine with half the amount. Maybe I just need to have dessert first?
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0309.jpg
DS had the Kenyan coffee ice cream. He's a big coffee ice cream guy, and declared this the best he'd ever had. I was amazed that the bits of ground coffee in it didn't phase him -- he said he loved the texture:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0310.jpg
And DH went with the apple turnover -- they had a fancier name for it, but DH said that you could call it whatever you like but that he'd walk a mile over hot coals to have it again:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0311.jpg

Another top-notch experience! The meal, plus the before- and after-dinner strolls around the resort, keep this a must-do.
Food: A++
Service: A++
Atmosphere: A
Value: $209

[bleeps]

The Chef's Table is wonderful! Granted a lot of money but worth it. When my husband & I went it was about $550 for my wine pairing + the meals for the both of us. But - the regular sit down table was $430 for the two of us for the wine pairing and the upgrades we got.

In fact I'm calling at 7am on Tuesday to try for the Chef's Table for our next trip. Hopefully we can get it one of the days we are there.

V&A has become a must do for us almost every trip.

I'm a little shocked at how much my husband's palettes have changed over the past few years as I've made him try new things as he didn't grow up eating anything 'fancy'

Once he tries it - I'm sure he wont mind having to have a jacket in the suitcase for the next time.


Thanks for the recommendation -- we're just plain going for it next year!

I had to laugh about your husband's change in tastes -- I went through the exact same thing with my DH. He was raised in a very plain meat and potatoes family -- nothing 'fancy' and everything kind of cooked to death. When we were first together, I'd ask him things like, "do you like roasted asparagus?" or "do you like creme brulee?" and he'd say "no -- no thanks!" It took me a while to figure out that the RIGHT question to ask was, "have you ever had ...." -- because he'd just automatically say no to things he hadn't had before!

Now he's Mr. Foodie, and loves to try new things. He's also willing to view a meal as an experience, and is willing to pay for it. Not that we splurge all the time, but he's willing to have special experiences (his poor brother is still stuck in the mode he was raised on, and even though he earns a fortune he's scandalized by the thought of spending more than about $50 on dinner for two!).

I love being able to share on these boards and connect with like-minded souls:grouphug:

[mcrabeck]

Enjoying your pictures and reviews- thanks for sharing!

[catsaneda]

I absolutely love your reviews! And I love how adventurous your son is in eating and how sophistocated his tastes are. My daughter was the same way...she is 25 now and has the most adventurous pallette of anyone I know. I think Disney has played a huge part in developing it.

[bleeps]

Coral Reef

This was our 6th visit to Coral Reef -- lunch here is always a must for us (I say that a lot, don't I?). Aside from the food, we really feel recharged by the dark, cool, quiet atmosphere. If you don't take some real opportunities to get out of the sun sometimes when you're at WDW, you don't realize how much the exposure just wears you out.

Anyway, this was the first time we were seated right next to the aquarium -- we're usually in the first row of the second 'tier.' We'd always been just fine with our tables before, but we admitted that it was pretty special to be right next to the tank. But as you may have read elsewhere, the one downside to a tank-side table is that there are parents who will instruct their kids to push right into you to get up to the tank. I don't get it -- there isn't room, you are clearly getting in the way of the people seated there, and you truly can see the whole tank from further back.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0376.jpg
I think this picture shows that there really is NOT room between your seat and the seat behind you at the next table, but people insist on having their kids squeeze in just the same. We are not 'make a fuss' people -- we generally do our best to just look the other way and not let things get to us -- but I did finally say to one child, loudly enough for his mom to hear, "honey, I'm glad you've had fun looking at the fish, but my boy is so squeezed in now that he can't eat his lunch -- you really need to go back to your table now." I said it nicely and mom hurrumphed and went back to the table....

But, as I say, that wasn't going to spoil our lunch!
DS had the Seared Sea Scallops - served with a cauliflower foam with black truffle vinaigrette. He enjoyed the scallops and didn't do a whole lot of damage to the rest of the things on his plate; overall he said he would order this again.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0395.jpg

I had the shrimp and lobster cake, and I didn't care for it. I felt that the cakes were pretty rubbery.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0393.jpg

Ds had the mixed greens salad. He enjoyed it, but was disappointed that they've taken the straight shrimp cocktail off the menu because he'd really been looking forward to that.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0394.jpg

For entrees, I was fortunate that my meal more than made up for the disappointment of the appetizer. I had Grilled Mahi Mahi - topped with a spicy pineapple chutney over cashew-jasmine rice finished with a coconut rum beurre blanc, with bok choy (that's the green and white "lettuce-looking" item on the plate) and I can honestly say this was one of the best entrees of the trip for me. I ate every last bite, which I don't usually do no matter how much I'm enjoying the meal!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0396.jpg

DS had his beloved Blackened Catfish, served over pepper jack cheese grits, with tomato marmalade, and basil oil, that he'd had last year:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0397.jpg

And DH went with the Lobster Ravioli - with tomatoes, olives, capers, and shaved parmegiano-reggiano cheese. He gave it two thumbs up.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0398.jpg

Dessert were the chocolate wave for me and DS (although he ordered his without the raspberries -- no problem). This is your basic molten-center chocolate cake, well executed except for one thing. See the green sugar Mickey head on the left? I wish the cm had warned us -- these things are beyond hard-as-rock (or at least ours were), and completely inedible.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0399.jpg

DH went with butterscotch creme brulee and thoroughly enjoyed it, although we were both sad that the mango sorbet that we had devoured last trip was no longer on the menu.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0401.jpg

Food: A-
(just skip right over those rubbery seafood cakes and you'll be fine)
Service: C
CM here wasn't great. Her nametag showed that her hometown was a small town near where we live so we mentioned it -- just nicely, without indicating that we'd be stopping by to spend the holidays with her or anything -- and she just totally blew us off. She wasn't new to the waitress scene, she wasn't so rushed that she just couldn't cope (in which case we wouldn't even have said anything). She just acted as though she couldn't care less. She also served our desserts without clearing the table first -- again, fine if it seems like you're just learning but it came across as sloppy on her part. We are very easy-going people and by no means did she ruin the meal for us, and while we will definitely eat here again we will hope we don't get her next time.
Atmosphere: A
Love it in here, as I've said. Even the kids crawling over us didn't make a dent in how much we like being here.
Value: $132

[bleeps]

Citricos.

Ah, Citricos. We had a really hard time deciding on this ADR. We normally do California Grill and Artist's Point, but this time we wanted to branch out a little bit and we wanted to try something at Grand Floridian.

The room, and the table, were lovely.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0460.jpg

DS was wearing a clean, crisp white t-shirt (not an undershirt -- much heavier/nicer) and chinos. DH and I also had crisp chinos; DH had a nice polo shirt on and I had a nice blouse. I mention what we were wearing because this is the first and only time that we all kind of felt as though we were being looked down on. Now, we're hypersensitive -- I'll admit that -- and maybe something about sharing the same waiting area with V&A's and seeing all those folks dressed to the nines made us feel shabby? And there certainly were others in Citricos much less "dressed" than we were. But it got us off on a slightly uncomfortable foot.

I started with the goat cheese/truffle salad and found it lovely; for some reason, I'm not a great salad-maker myself -- I make salads, but I don't get too creative with them (I'd like to think that my energy goes in to the main dish!). So it's a real treat to have these beautiful, carefully thought-out salads.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0467.jpg

DS had, so surprising, the cheese plate:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0469.jpg
When it first arrived he just sat there for a while, until I asked him what was wrong. "Aren't I going to get the card to tell me what's what on these cheeses?" he asked -- not in a snotty way, but just in kind of a plaintive way. No card forthcoming. It was his least favorite cheese plate of the week and he didn't feel that the bread was a good accompaniment to the cheese. He really didn't care for the brown coffee-aged cheese on the right, and he thought the ricotta on the left was an odd choice for a cheese plate. I agreed with him.

DH had sauteed shrimp. They were tasty, but he thought the presentation was a little lacking (and he's not the kind of guy who goes around talking about 'presentation' very often).
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0468.jpg

For entrees, I had the salmon -- with Lemon Risotto with English Peas and Lemon Thyme broth. It was fine, but I kept thinking about the $33 for this vs. the $20 for the mahi mahi at Coral Reef, and feeling that the chefs at Coral Reef had done so much more superb a job. This was not what I thought I'd be thinking at a signature restaurant. Don't get me wrong -- this salmon was fine -- it just wasn't anything very special. DS shared quite a bit of it with me -- he loves salmon.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0470.jpg

DS had Berkshire Pork Two Ways - Chermoula Rubbed Pork Tenderloin and Braised Pork Belly with Creamy Polenta, Swiss Chard, Caramelized Vidalia Onions, and California Peaches. He is a huge pork fan, but this just didn't do a whole lot for him. To be honest, it is entirely possible at this point that we were all a little off balance by our experience, and that we might have enjoyed everything more if the whole meal had started off better for us. He did a fair job on the pork, and as I said he had quite a bit of my salmon so he certainly didn't go hungry.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0473.jpg

DH had sea bass, and he did absolutely enjoy it:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0472.jpg

Dessert for me and DH were the trio of gelato -- we each ordered our own. They were tasty, and we know that gelato is a soft ice cream, but these were almost liquid. They tasted fine, but they were more like dessert soups than gelato.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0474.jpg

DS didn't order dessert. I think that it was a combination of being pretty "fooded-out" by this point in the trip, and his overall disappointment with the meal/experience. Also, unlike other cm's we'd had, this one didn't make any effort to try to help DS find something he'd like -- and I am confident that there probably would have been something he'd have tried if the cm had made an effort.

Speaking, then, of the service. Ahem. So I was a waitress, back in my own olden days, so I am very, very understanding, appreciative, and tolerant of restaurant servers. I know how hard the job is. OK. And then there's the whole signature dining thing. I do think it is reasonable to expect superior service at these places. The guy we had was just, so.... obsequious, while at the same time kind of looking down his nose at us. Weird and contradictory, I know -- but it was as though he was going to make up for the fact that he somehow thought we didn't belong there by going overboard in the "and how may I be of service to you?" thing. He made us feel pretty uncomfortable, he made no effort to engage us or work with us on our choices (and didn't even comment on the stuff that went back barely touched, where in a fine restaurant it is usual to expect that if you don't eat much of what you were served that the waiter will ask you if there was a problem and try to fix it). [edited to add that in retrospect, it was unfair for me to say that dishes 'went back untouched' because that wasn't really the case -- DS and I just left a bit more than we usually would but that was more the sides than the mains. I think I wanted the cm to read my mind, and of course that's not reasonable nor fair on my part.]

So I know that there are people who go to Citricos and have wonderful experiences -- for us, it just wasn't our night. We don't think we'll go back, at least not for a while. We'll try Narcoosses, maybe, or we'll go back to California Grill.

Food: B-/C+
Service: D
Atmosphere: A (we did love looking out over the courtyard and watching the comings and goings at GF)
Value: $203
[I should have noted this sooner: for "value," I am giving you the amount that was for the meal that was included on the dining plan -- this represents the value of the plan. We paid OOP for wine, and sometimes for a side dish or something like that, and those OOP costs and tips are not reflected in this amount.]

[bleeps]

Enjoying your pictures and reviews- thanks for sharing!

Thanks so much -- glad you're enjoying!

[bleeps]

I absolutely love your reviews! And I love how adventurous your son is in eating and how sophistocated his tastes are. My daughter was the same way...she is 25 now and has the most adventurous pallette of anyone I know. I think Disney has played a huge part in developing it.

Thanks for the feedback! It is nice to have a child along who is willing to try new things and kind of go with the flow. I think Disney creates such a comfort zone for kids that they feel OK about taking some risks -- nice to hear you felt the same way about the added benefits of WDW vacations!

[Lynn5700]

I LOVE your reviews!!!! Wea re also trying Jiko for the first time as well next trip, lol and going back to Coral Reef!!!!! We are getting Deluxe dining for the first time :)

I cannot flipping wait to have that steak with mac & cheese at Jiko.

Citricos looks very good. You have me wanting to go there now too haha, but we are trying Narcoossees instead. Have you ever been?

[bleeps]

I LOVE your reviews!!!! Wea re also trying Jiko for the first time as well next trip, lol and going back to Coral Reef!!!!! We are getting Deluxe dining for the first time :)

I cannot flipping wait to have that steak with mac & cheese at Jiko.

Citricos looks very good. You have me wanting to go there now too haha, but we are trying Narcoossees instead. Have you ever been?

I tell you from the bottom of my heart that you will not be disappointed in the steak w/ mac & cheese at Jiko! Enjoy every last morsel!

We've never been to Narcoossees, so if you go I hope you'll do a review!

[Colleen27]

I'm loving your reviews, especially your DS's. My DS is the same age and loves "adult" foods, and it is so rare to see a dining review with someone like him in the cast!

[bleeps]

I'm loving your reviews, especially your DS's. My DS is the same age and loves "adult" foods, and it is so rare to see a dining review with someone like him in the cast!

Cool! He's been reading over my shoulder and fondly remembering all those great meals, and is starting to form his list for our next trip....

[bleeps]

Le Cellier -- dinner on DH's 50th birthday

Part of DH's whole vision of going to WDW for his 50th birthday was so that he could have dinner at Le Cellier. Can't begin to tell you how anxious I was to get that ADR!! He said he'd certainly understand if I couldn't, and that as long as we got there once on the trip he'd be OK, but I was thrilled when I was able to tell him that, yes, your birthday dinner will be exactly where you were hoping it would be.

I tried just now to find our receipt so I could tell you our server's name, but it's not at hand at the moment. The cm was young, and probably fairly new to waiting tables, but he couldn't have been more perfect. He was sweet and engaging and very great about the birthday thing. [edited to add: Greg! I thought it was Greg and indeed it was. Great guy!]

On that note let me just quickly say that I can't imagine how the entire cast has dealt with the "Celebrate!" theme for a year. My gosh. The place was just choked, day after day, with people wanting special attention for whatever it was they were celebrating, and overall we thought the cast did an outstanding job -- throughout the entire WDW complex -- of noticing the special buttons and treating people specially on their birthdays, etc. I had indicated on the ADRs just for this day that we were celebrating DH's 50th, but Le Cellier was the only place that noticed it specially. More about that in a moment.

The appetizers, then!
I had the Prince Edward Island mussels with celery, shallots, ginger, garlic, and coconut milk. I'd been having a hard time deciding what to get and our cm recommended these -- spot on. Really, really tasty and wonderful:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0183.jpg

DS had the cheddar cheese soup, because he figured, as he says, that if there's cheese then you can't go wrong. He enjoyed it, even though he's usually strictly a French Onion Soup guy. When he started to slow down, DH and I jumped in to help him out -- what are good parents for, if not to help you with your soup?
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0184.jpg

DH went for the Tomato Stack - with Caramelized Onions, Cucumbers, Crumbled Blue Cheese, and Yuzu Vinaigrette. He's a tomato stack guy, and he felt this stack was even tastier than the one at Yachtsman's. He ordered the same thing last year, and was very, very happy that it was as good as he remembered.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0185.jpg

Even though you might very well think that DS and I had burned out on filet mignon by this point -- well, you'd be wrong. That's what we all ordered -- with wild mushroom risotto, white truffle and herb butter sauce that makes you seriously want to consider licking the bowl.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0186.jpg

Our cm did his very best to pace this meal for us, and he did a fine job. We respected the fact that even though we were celebrating a big 5-0 birthday, they did still need to turn the table but we still managed to have a wonderful time. The wine we had was fantastic -- a cabernet sauvignon, as I recall, and just ideal with the meat.

When it came time for dessert, DH was presented with a card that many of the cm's on staff that night had signed, indicating where in Canada they were from. And he was presented with this:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0188.jpg

We all had the maple creme brulee -- again, it's one of those things we dream about when we're waiting for our next trip -- and it was fantastic.

We so enjoyed our cm that on the way out, I mentioned to the manager how wonderful he had been. It turns out that they have special little cards you can fill out, and once a month they draw out a name from people who've been recognized specially by guests and they get something (maybe it was a gift certificate? it was something decent). I hope our guy won. Please consider doing this when you have exceptional service -- mention it to the manager. It really makes a difference to the cm.

Food: A+
I know Le Cellier takes its knocks. There are people who feel the quality has gone down so far as to make it a non-starter for them. There are people who complain that the meat isn't up to their standards. I respect that we all have our opinions and experiences. Our love of Le Cellier isn't out of lack of understanding what a great steak is supposed to taste like. We've never had anything but stellar experiences here, and we feel that it's a steal at 1 TS credit. DH wonders if there's a way, next trip, to eat here twice....
Service: A+
He might not have been the most highly experienced server we'd ever had, but this guy was genuine and caring in a way that made my DH utterly delighted to have spent his 50th at this place.
Atmosphere:
We like the fact that this place is kind of small and dimly lit -- we had a booth up against a back wall and it was so lovely....
Value: $187

[bleeps]

Just a little something extra!

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0231_2.jpg

We aren't big drinkers, but I figured that this special trip deserved at least one champagne toast! We stopped at the little kiosk at France and each got a glass, and DS did the honors with the camera. We strolled around WS, listened to Mo' Rockin' (if you've never caught their set, I can highly recommend it), took in the sights.

If you haven't been to WDW yet, or if you tend to go commando-style, I just cannot recommend enough giving yourself the opportunity to slow down, relax, treat yourself to something crazy like an $11 glass of champagne or whatever would be special for you and enjoy. Don't worry about the next attraction or the next character or show or whatever -- just see what comes your way.

I also recommend handing your camera to your child sometimes. He's very careful, he knows that the FIRST thing is to put the strap around his neck so he can't drop it, and he's taken some really interesting shots that I never would have thought of. On that note, I guess I need to share one more he took while we were ordering the champagne:

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0223.jpg

I love that it's from his point of view -- I never would have taken that shot.

[KatMark]

Loving the reviews. What good parents you are to help DS with his cheddar cheese soup. :)

Your pictures great and your descriptions even better.

[bleeps]

Loving the reviews. What good parents you are to help DS with his cheddar cheese soup. :)

Your pictures great and your descriptions even better.

Thank you! I opted to make most of the pictures small so that they'd download quickly -- hope that's working for everyone!

[KatMark]

Thank you! I opted to make most of the pictures small so that they'd download quickly -- hope that's working for everyone!

I love the small pictures. if I could figure out how to do that, I'd download mine small in the future too.

[DjdBrit]

I just stumbled on your review and I am really enjoying them. Keep up the good work:)

[livinlife25]

Loving your reviews!

[jpmom97]

Enjoying your reviews! Can't wait to read more. My son is an adventurous eater too, glad to see other kids are the same.

[bleeps]

I love the small pictures. if I could figure out how to do that, I'd download mine small in the future too.

Do you use Photobucket? That's where I bulk download my photos, and I use the option upfront to bring them all in at a small size. When I download individual photos to the album, I bring them in full size, then use the 'resize' option within Photobucket to alter them. I can try to be more specific, if it would help....

[KatMark]

Do you use Photobucket? That's where I bulk download my photos, and I use the option upfront to bring them all in at a small size. When I download individual photos to the album, I bring them in full size, then use the 'resize' option within Photobucket to alter them. I can try to be more specific, if it would help....

Yes, I use Photobucket. What size to do you "resize" them to?

[bleeps]

Thanks to everyone for all the kind words and positive feedback!

Le Chefs de France

We'd had lunch here several trips ago and always had it in mind to go back. Free dining had started by this point, and it caused a huge surge in the crowd levels at all the restaurants. I really and truly felt bad for the poor souls without ADRs -- they didn't have a chance at getting in to any TS places. It was raining off and on this particular evening, and the cm at the check-in booth was, it seemed, turning away twice as many as she was checking in. I was worried that we'd be way off our ADR time, but we only waited about 15 minutes.

BTW, that was never a problem for us -- we found that all our ADRs were honored within just a few minutes of the time we booked.

And on to the meal!

I absolutely love escargot (snails served in a very garlicky butter sauce with parsley). I wasn't going to pass them up and I'm glad -- these were tender and delicious:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0274.jpg

DS had French onion soup, which as I mentioned previously is, for him, what the word 'soup' means. This version was cheesy and rich and so flavorful -- he put a major dent in it.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0276.jpg

DH had a house green salad, and found it very fresh and flavorful.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0275.jpg

Entree for me was roasted breast of duck and leg confit, french green beans and sweet potato, spicy honey sauce. It was amazing -- the duck was so rich and tender! The only kind of funny thing was that the sweet potato was cooked in a small, round, foil container, and it still had all the marks of it -- can you see that? It didn't chance the tasty flavor, but it looked odd.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0277.jpg

DH had half of an all-natural roasted chicken, rissole potatoes and grilled tomato, and he adored it:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0279.jpg

When it was his turn to order, DS looked at me and said, "would be it alright if I ordered the mac and cheese, since it is on the adult menu and everything?" and I said, "honey, you are on vacation and you can order whatever sounds good to you!" This version is made with gruyere cheese which DS happens to love -- it's not a typical kid-style mac and cheese but boy, is it good! DS ended up trying quite a bit of my duck, so (as at most meals) we shared back and forth.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0278.jpg

We did find it within us to order desserts, even though we all did really good jobs on our entrees.
Our cm, Romain, was incredible -- more about him in a moment -- and he really, really wanted DS to try the profiteroles. DS already had his heart set on creme brulee, but I told him that I'd order that and he could get the profiteroles and we would share/switch if he wanted. DH went with his favorite -- assortment of sorbets.

The profiteroles -- fantastic!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0287.jpg

The creme brulee -- done to perfection, and just the right serving size:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0285.jpg

The sorbets -- DH finished them all easily, they were so good.
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0286.jpg

The guys, with Romain:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0288.jpg

Romain was delightful, and we so enjoyed his service that once again we spoke to the manager on our way out (although this restaurant didn't have the card/reward system that Le Cellier had, the manager still went and wrote it down and seemed very, very pleased). There are two Romains working there, as it turns out -- "ours" was the one from Paris, the "tall Romain" as the manager said! Anyway, we noticed that he was from Paris and we commented that we couldn't imagine his giving up Paris for Orlando. He was so friendly and eager to explain that while Paris is an amazing place to visit (DH's and my favorite city!) it is a very hard place to live -- expensive, difficult to navigate on a daily basis (public transportation is fairly easy to use, but driving is a nightmare), and he was the one to say that the people just are not very friendly (although we've never had a problem there, they are definitely "city people" -- focused on their own comings and goings and brusque in the way city-dwellers tend to be).

Romain just adores the US, he loves working at WDW, and he couldn't have done a better job for us. Remember -- the place was jammed because free dining had started, but Romain managed his tables beautifully and wasn't too busy to engage with us. This experience put Chefs on our "must" list and we especially enjoy it for lunch for the beautiful views out all the big windows.

Food: A
Service: A++
Atmosphere: A
Having been to Paris 3 times, I can say that this place really does have the feel of a Parisian restaurant.
Value: $146

[Briarmom]

Really enjoying the reviews!!

[bleeps]

Yes, I use Photobucket. What size to do you "resize" them to?

Once the photos are in an album, click the 'edit' link, then the 'resize' button; I used the 'small' pre-set size for all the food pictures in this review. It is important to decide if you're going to do anything else with your photos from Photobucket -- if they are just for online use, as mine were, then choose the "replace original" option after you re-size so that you don't have multiples of each shot in the album. BUT if you are going to order prints, choose the "duplicate" option because the smaller size photos aren't going to print up as well as larger ones.

You get to preview the size before going ahead and altering your photo.

[bleeps]

Crystal Palace breakfast

It is one of our traditions to have an 8 a.m. breakfast at Crystal Palace on the day we leave (which, fortunately for us, has never been an MK emh morning). We have always gotten out to the bus stop by 7:15 and had no problem catching the MK Character Breakfast bus.

But, this time, apparently we didn't get the memo. What we should have done, as it turns out, was alert the concierge desk the night before that we would want the bus to stop at YC. We didn't do that. The next thing we probably should have done (hindsight being 20/20) was that when it got to be later and later and no bus was coming was to jump in a cab to the GF and jump on the monorail from there. (The only thing I wish were different for the transportation system is that I wish it were possible to take a cab directly to MK, but you have to go to and from the TTC if you're in a cab).

By the time the bus for MK finally came it was a little after 8, and our ADR had been for 8. We decided it was what it was -- we'd just deal. We got to MK and they had let guests through the turnstyles but were holding them at the entrance to the train station to await rope drop. We, politely as we could, worked our way to the front of the crowd and explained our situation to the cm, who very nicely let us through.

Now, one of the reasons we love the early ADR is the opportunity to get castle pictures with an empty park. But we were all so harried by this point (it was a little past 8:30) that we went straight to CP to check in.

We took deep breaths, reminded each other that we were going to have a great last day no matter what, and sat down at our table.

For us, that marvelous CP breakfast buffet is all about the puffed French toast; this was my plate so I had some scrambled eggs and grits as well:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0334.jpg
Ah, just as good as we remembered! DS loves the Pooh characters and, as luck would have it, had already had good visits with all of them at AK. He was the one to suggest that we'd take whatever characters came our way but that we wouldn't hang around for all 4.

Luckily, the two we got were his two favorites!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0341.jpg

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0347.jpg

People do ask us what keeps us going back to Disney year after year. There are many answers to that question, but there's no question that one of them is having a son who, at age 11, is still just so, so happy to be able to give these characters a big hug and interact with them a bit. Who wouldn't want to hold on to this part of childhood for as long as possible?

We were able to finish up and get out into the park by just a little after 9. We would have wished for a slightly less rushed and stressful morning, but we'll know next year to make the request ahead of time for the early bus to stop at the resort for us or else we'll hop a cab earlier.

Food: A
This is our favorite buffet on property. Sure, it has gotten a little less spectacular in the last few years, but as long as there is puffed French toast, we'll be here!
Service: A
She knew our tale of woe and she was all over getting us our drinks and letting us know when the characters were coming; she also was great about dropping our check early, as we asked.
Atmosphere: A
We all love the airy feel in here, and even if they don't have a lot of time to linger some days, the character interactions have always been really great.
Value: $57

[Lynn5700]

Awww cute pics!! CP is a great breakfast.... that picture of the puffed french toast is making me drool!!

I love the mac and cheese at Chefs and the French onion soup!!! YUM!

[TiffinyKC]

I love your reviews...and you have a fantastic looking family.

I am envious, I wish my DS were a more adventurous eater.

[bleeps]

I love your reviews...and you have a fantastic looking family.

I am envious, I wish my DS were a more adventurous eater.

You're so kind! thanks so much.

What we've found has worked over the years is encouraging DS to try some of whatever DH and I order; part of our family tradition when we go out to eat is to have a taste of each other's meals. This has been how DS has discovered that the liked things like lamb and duck and all kinds of fish/seafood -- he never would have ordered any of those things for himself initially, but once he'd tried them he found that he liked them. The other great thing about WDW is that the restaurants make it SO easy to adapt a dish; if it is possible for them to serve something without a sauce, or with sauce on the side, they'll do it. At times when DS used to look at a menu and think at first there was nothing he liked, we'd just point out -- well there's chicken, and beef, and pork -- just focus on the main item, ask about switching sides, and ask about the preparation/sauces.

My DH used to have it in mind that we couldn't go to a certain place (WDW or otherwise) unless we knew they had a kids' menu or had something we knew for sure DS would like. I didn't agree with that -- my feeling was that we can sometimes eat at places that cater to kids and sometimes eat at more adult type places, and that we just needed to encourage DS that there would always be something he *could* eat. I know so much depends on an individual, but I think that being reasonable about the mix of places where you eat, and expecting your child to be reasonable about trying things, can result in better experiences all around. Kids are pretty amazing at stepping up to challenges and opportunities if they have safe opportunities, I think.

[bleeps]

CP is a great breakfast.... that picture of the puffed french toast is making me drool!!



Yeah -- I kind of wish I hadn't posted it this morning because I can't stop thinking about it.... Honey nut Cheerios with a sliced banana just didn't quite do the trick as the replacement:rotfl2:

[Symans3honeybees]

I am really enjoying your report. Can't believe that we both share quite a lot of favorite restaurants and dishes in WDW. :thumbsup2

[bleeps]

I am really enjoying your report. Can't believe that we both share quite a lot of favorite restaurants and dishes in WDW. :thumbsup2

Love that! Thanks for reading :flower3:

[janeapplemeadow]

Again I must say, your pictures and reviews are just great. I dare say you seem to be raising a potential Disney nut in a perfect way. I love that you encourage him to be adventurous in his dining selections. I'm sure he'll grow up to be the "proper" disney nut like the rest of us. All the trips I took my nieces and nephews on, I always encouraged the to try whatever they liked and if we had to, we could always get something later if they were still hungry. I'm proud to say, on our Aug. trip they each enjoyed the ostrich at Cali Grill and they are now certified Disney nuts.

[tinacaplan]

Love your reviews...I'm excited to read reviews from more adventerous eaters.

[bleeps]

Captain's Grille

This review will primarily be about the lunch we had on our last day, before heading over to the airport :sad1:

We did, however, have a breakfast here one morning. Our cm was Clark, and although we were considering ordering from the ala carte items because we weren't all that hungry, he steered us all to the breakfast buffet. He said it was the best value, esp. on the DP, since the entrees were all priced just a tad below the cost of the buffet and we'd have our pick of things like fresh fruit, eggs, yogurt, granola, etc. This was a case where we all ended up feeling that Clark did right by us -- we did end up enjoying the meal more because we could graze at the buffet, and it was nice being able to get in and out on our own schedule. I didn't mark down the cost so I can't share that. This buffet, while nowhere near as extensive as the one at CP, was still fresh and appealing.

Lunch, then.

Oh dear.

So here's what happened: as we were being seated, DS asked for a trip to the restroom. So we told DH we'd both like ice tea and I took DS off (the restrooms are slightly hard to find but I knew exactly where I was going). As we were walking back to the table, we could see immediately that something had gone terribly wrong....

Turns out that as the cm approached the table with a large tray holding 3 large glasses ice tea, she lost balance of the tray and I'm sorry to have to say that all three glasses of ice tea ended up spilling all over DH. Glasses smashed as they hit the table and floor.

If it had been any other day of the trip, this would have been less of a big deal. DH could simply have gone back to the room and changed. But we'd already checked out of the room early that morning, and our bags were being held at bell services. AND, because it was the last day of the trip, DH didn't have the full assortment of clean items available in his bag that he would have wished for.

Now, accidents can happen. We all know that, and DH did, even in his sodden, upset state, realize that it was not the cm's fault. What was kind of weird was that they didn't move us to another table, even though the place was fairly deserted. So they had all these people sweeping up glass and getting us fresh napkins, which just kind of added to DH's feeling kind of upset. We, truly, could have just asked to move to another table, but when I suggested this to DH he wasn't interested.

You know how sometimes when you get into a miserable situation you just aren't ready at first to be helped out of it? That was the case for him.

The tea had also sloshed into our bags, where DH's most favorite baseball hat (very light colored, naturally) was, and where the one toy DS had bought for himself that morning was.

DH said that as soon as the accident happened, a manager had come over to ask if he was all right. No one said anything about comp'ing the meal and honestly since we were using our last DP credits anyway that didn't matter. This is such a sticky kind of situation (:rolleyes1) -- we are not people who are going to get all nutty and start demanding things, but it would be nice NOT to have to do that and still feel taken care of. Oh well.

So we ordered lunch instead, DH sitting there just sopping. wet.

DH and I both had lobster rolls:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0408-1.jpg

DS had fish & chips
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0407-1.jpg

The meals were fine, but we didn't enjoy them as we might have. I did get DH to get up and leave the table as soon as he finished, and sent him to check the gift shop for the items he knew he didn't have clean things available to replace. Should I leave a tip, I asked him? Do what you think you should do, he said. I will say that the cm brought the bill without the slip that they normally bring you for adding a tip. She was profusely apologetic through the entire meal. I did give her $5 because it wasn't her fault and she clearly felt awful. I do wish the manager had dealt with us a little differently, but I guess this is a case where NOT being a squeaky wheel means they figure you're fine, and we could have been more direct. I'm not sure, even, what it was that I was expecting.

He ended up changing into an assortment of dry but not entirely clean clothes after we got our bags from bell services. We always use Tiffany Town Car to and from the airport, and he was fine once we got into the car and were off. We got to the airport and I asked DH if he'd like a coupla three ice teas and he laughed, so already it was behind us and not a factor in how we felt about the fabulous trip.

I didn't record the cost of the meal, but I'll say that it's a quiet place to have lunch and that the food was good....

So that's our story! We had some cs meals in there (hot dogs at Typhoon Lagoon, for one) but I didn't photograph or record those.

If you've been several times and are wondering how to make it special/different for your older kids, I do have one suggestion:

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0406.jpg

DS knew that his class would be studying transportation when school started, and he had a summer assignment of investigating some modes of public transportation. He decided to chat up a bus driver while we were waiting, that last morning, for the bus back to YC.

Not only did DS learn so much about the bus system (and gain a major new respect for how challenging that job is), he also made a friend for life! That cm was so utterly delighted to chat with my son -- it clearly made his day. I recommend you encourage your kids to talk to the cm's who aren't in the spotlight, to learn more about how WDW works behind the scenes. It's going to be a theme for our next trip!

In the meantime, do feel free to ask questions, and thanks for reading! I loved the opportunity to remember our trip and I encourage you to take food photos; whether you end up writing reviews or not, it is another fun way to capture details about your wonderful WDW vacation!:cheer2:

[bleeps]

Again I must say, your pictures and reviews are just great. I dare say you seem to be raising a potential Disney nut in a perfect way. I love that you encourage him to be adventurous in his dining selections. I'm sure he'll grow up to be the "proper" disney nut like the rest of us. All the trips I took my nieces and nephews on, I always encouraged the to try whatever they liked and if we had to, we could always get something later if they were still hungry. I'm proud to say, on our Aug. trip they each enjoyed the ostrich at Cali Grill and they are now certified Disney nuts.

That's so cool about the ostrich; it's something we've all been wanting to try. I * thought * they used to offer it as Artists' Point (that, and buffalo?) but they had neither last time we were there.

Yes -- I forgot that I, too, have always said that if DS ended up getting something he really couldn't eat that we'd get something else. It never came to that, but I think for kids they relax a little when they have that insurance in their minds.

Disney nuts of the world -- unite!!:grouphug:

[bleeps]

Love your reviews...I'm excited to read reviews from more adventerous eaters.

Thanks so much!!

[auntfrannie]

Wow! I'm so sorry to hear about your poor experience at Citrico's! I've been there a few times and just love it.

[TiffinyKC]

You're so kind! thanks so much.

What we've found has worked over the years is encouraging DS to try some of whatever DH and I order; part of our family tradition when we go out to eat is to have a taste of each other's meals. This has been how DS has discovered that the liked things like lamb and duck and all kinds of fish/seafood -- he never would have ordered any of those things for himself initially, but once he'd tried them he found that he liked them. The other great thing about WDW is that the restaurants make it SO easy to adapt a dish; if it is possible for them to serve something without a sauce, or with sauce on the side, they'll do it. At times when DS used to look at a menu and think at first there was nothing he liked, we'd just point out -- well there's chicken, and beef, and pork -- just focus on the main item, ask about switching sides, and ask about the preparation/sauces.

My DH used to have it in mind that we couldn't go to a certain place (WDW or otherwise) unless we knew they had a kids' menu or had something we knew for sure DS would like. I didn't agree with that -- my feeling was that we can sometimes eat at places that cater to kids and sometimes eat at more adult type places, and that we just needed to encourage DS that there would always be something he *could* eat. I know so much depends on an individual, but I think that being reasonable about the mix of places where you eat, and expecting your child to be reasonable about trying things, can result in better experiences all around. Kids are pretty amazing at stepping up to challenges and opportunities if they have safe opportunities, I think.


Great advice! :thumbsup2

[bleeps]

Wow! I'm so sorry to hear about your poor experience at Citrico's! I've been there a few times and just love it.

You know, I had the feeling that night that things just weren't quite going our way (for as much our own state of mind as anything else). I imagine we'll give it another try someday; there are places on this current list (like Tony's) where we once said 'never again!' and then realized it was worth another try (which worked out really well). Maybe now we know what we don't care for on the menu, we could try other things and see how it goes.

That room certainly is lovely!

[KatiJ]

Great reviews - makes me want to upgrade to the deluxe plan!

Wonder if I could use this as an idea to convice DH to start an annual tradition to WDW "the kids will be more adventurous eaters if we take them every year!"

[tinacaplan]

You know, I had the feeling that night that things just weren't quite going our way (for as much our own state of mind as anything else). I imagine we'll give it another try someday; there are places on this current list (like Tony's) where we once said 'never again!' and then realized it was worth another try (which worked out really well). Maybe now we know what we don't care for on the menu, we could try other things and see how it goes.

That room certainly is lovely!

I've read such mixed things about Tony's. But it is the only place at Disney that has much of anything to do with Lady and the Tramp and that's my favorite Disney movie! Wondering if we should try it on our trip?

[KatMark]

I totally agree with you -- the puffed french toast is worth the price at the CP. I love it and always fill my plate with it. We got very fortunate in we ended up having a "mini trip" last month that wasn't expected and at 40 or so days out, I was able to get an 8:05 ADR for Crystal Palace; I wouldn't have cared about any of the other places (including LeCellier) as long as I got my puffed french toast. :thumbsup2

[maiziezoe]

Loving your reviews!! :worship:

PS... my 13 year old DD drinks cold cappuccinos all the time!! If that makes us bad parents, let's start a club! :) :thumbsup2

[jeminni]

I'm really enjoying your reviews. Like your husband I was at disney for my 50th birthday. My kids were teasing me, everyone wants to have a party for their 50th birthday but you want to run away to disney. :rotfl:

[Mom2Elliot]

Your review was a delight to read. Thank you!

[bleeps]

I've read such mixed things about Tony's. But it is the only place at Disney that has much of anything to do with Lady and the Tramp and that's my favorite Disney movie! Wondering if we should try it on our trip?

My advice would be to go for it! We all enjoyed our meals there, the service was lovely, and I think your love of the movie would make it worth getting into the place at least once!

It's the Dapper Dans who performed right at opening time; I can't say for sure that it happens every day, but we booked an early (11:30) lunch and arrived about 11:20 and they did perform tunes from Lady & the Tramp, which was a real treat.

[bleeps]

I totally agree with you -- the puffed french toast is worth the price at the CP. I love it and always fill my plate with it. We got very fortunate in we ended up having a "mini trip" last month that wasn't expected and at 40 or so days out, I was able to get an 8:05 ADR for Crystal Palace; I wouldn't have cared about any of the other places (including LeCellier) as long as I got my puffed french toast. :thumbsup2

There's a recipe for puffed French toast in the "Mickey's Gourmet Cookbook" -- I haven't attempted it because I can't imagine having my home version stack up to the real thing, but maybe this winter I'll have to get brave and give it a go (maybe DH will put on a Winnie-the-Pooh suit and.... well, no, probably not...).

[bleeps]

Loving your reviews!! :worship:

PS... my 13 year old DD drinks cold cappuccinos all the time!! If that makes us bad parents, let's start a club! :) :thumbsup2

Whew -- I feel better! I'm up for starting the club, and our first meeting should be at AK at rope drop one morning!

[bleeps]

I'm really enjoying your reviews. Like your husband I was at disney for my 50th birthday. My kids were teasing me, everyone wants to have a party for their 50th birthday but you want to run away to disney. :rotfl:

EXACTLY -- DH's parents wanted to have a family party for him, and our friends kept asking if I was going to throw a surprise party for him (I kept saying that I wanted to stay married, thank you very much!). He was very, very happy with having his big day at WDW. DS and I were both surprised and impressed that DH wore his birthday button that day (since that wouldn't normally be his style) but he really, really enjoyed his WDW birthday. I hope you enjoyed your big day there, too!!

[bleeps]

Your review was a delight to read. Thank you!

How kind of you! Thanks for reading along; these were a joy to write and share.

[bleeps]

Great reviews - makes me want to upgrade to the deluxe plan!

Wonder if I could use this as an idea to convice DH to start an annual tradition to WDW "the kids will be more adventurous eaters if we take them every year!"

If it works in your budget, I do recommend the deluxe plan. Aside from the breakfast treats at AK that weren't on the plan, the glasses of wine we had with dinner, and the side dish at Yachtsmans, we didn't spend an additional penny on food. Before they offered the deluxe and just had the 'straight' plan (which is sorta like the reg. plan now), we would struggle to figure out which meal to put on the plan and when to pay OOP -- and it felt hard to pay for some meals OOP given how much we'd spent on the plan. I know deluxe costs more but for us -- between the availability of a "full" meal (appetizer, main, dessert) and the 3 meal credits a day to use as you wish -- it really makes the vacation feel special.

And hey -- good luck on the annual tradition of trips; in all seriousness, we DO think it made a huge difference in DS' approach to eating!!:love:

[mjmartin01]

thank you so much for your reviews. really great reviews. Love the photos

[bleeps]

thank you so much for your reviews. really great reviews. Love the photos

Thank you! Please do feel free to ask questions if you have any!

[pancras]

Your reviews have been wonderful to read. I was wondering before if I had made the right decision going for the Dxddp and was considering changing it. However your reviews feel so calming and relaxing, I am going forward with it.

[KatMark]

There's a recipe for puffed French toast in the "Mickey's Gourmet Cookbook" -- I haven't attempted it because I can't imagine having my home version stack up to the real thing, but maybe this winter I'll have to get brave and give it a go (maybe DH will put on a Winnie-the-Pooh suit and.... well, no, probably not...).

:lmao::lmao::lmao: Maybe if you put on a Piglet suit he would. :rotfl2:

[bleeps]

Your reviews have been wonderful to read. I was wondering before if I had made the right decision going for the Dxddp and was considering changing it. However your reviews feel so calming and relaxing, I am going forward with it.

I am so delighted to hear this! I'll tell you -- I went through a couple of trips as a spreadsheet-wielding, dining-plan MANIAC -- stressing out beyond belief about making sure that every single credit was going to be used to the max, and making sure we were making significant savings, the whole nine yards.

The deluxe plan is just so wonderful, so flexible -- we now all just go and enjoy it and have a great time. Hope your trip is magical!

[bleeps]

:lmao::lmao::lmao: Maybe if you put on a Piglet suit he would. :rotfl2:

:lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao::lmao:

[vinotinto]

I really enjoyed reading your dining report. I could just feel the mood of every meal by your descriptions. We did the DDP on our first Disney trip last month, and I think we will do DxDP when we return in 2010, mostly because the quality of the TS restaurants (in terms of the overall experience) is better than most of the CS restaurants (in my very humble opinion).

So here are 2 questions for you:

1. What are your 1-2 favorite signature restaurants?

2. Do you think you and your husband could have shared 1 ap, 1 entree and 1 dessert during your lunches (for example, at Yak and Yeti, Coral Reef, Sci-Fi, etc.)? We have little kids and I think character breakfasts would be good with them, but there are a few 2 credit restaurants that I want to try in the evening. So, that means for lunch we probably won't be hungry enough to do a full 3-course and we won't have enough credits to do a character breakfast, a full lunch and a 2-credit dinner. I'm thinking we may share some of the credits at counter restaurants, but after seeing your lunch descriptions, that seems like a poor substitute!

[bleeps]

So here are 2 questions for you:

1. What are your 1-2 favorite signature restaurants?

2. Do you think you and your husband could have shared 1 ap, 1 entree and 1 dessert during your lunches (for example, at Yak and Yeti, Coral Reef, Sci-Fi, etc.)? We have little kids and I think character breakfasts would be good with them, but there are a few 2 credit restaurants that I want to try in the evening. So, that means for lunch we probably won't be hungry enough to do a full 3-course and we won't have enough credits to do a character breakfast, a full lunch and a 2-credit dinner. I'm thinking we may share some of the credits at counter restaurants, but after seeing your lunch descriptions, that seems like a poor substitute!

Thanks so much for reading and your kind words!

1. Top 2 favorite signature restaurants are Jiko and Cal. Grill (even though we didn't go this trip). If I had to pick of the ones from this trip, Jiko and Yachtsman Steakhouse.

2. I don't think my husband and I could have shared meals -- he's a big eater, especially with our walking an average of 12 miles a day at WDW. I would think about either springing for some out-of-pocket lunches, OR looking at whether you could share off of your 2 children's meals (that would work for me personally -- if I have a big breakfast and know I'm having a big dinner I could totally get away with 'snacking' at lunchtime). The character breakfasts are wonderful and I'm sure your kids will enjoy them -- and you'll really be able to fill up on some decent food!

Good luck, and do let me know if you have more questions!!

[bangzoom6877]

Crystal Palace breakfast

It is one of our traditions to have an 8 a.m. breakfast at Crystal Palace on the day we leave (which, fortunately for us, has never been an MK emh morning). We have always gotten out to the bus stop by 7:15 and had no problem catching the MK Character Breakfast bus.

But, this time, apparently we didn't get the memo. What we should have done, as it turns out, was alert the concierge desk the night before that we would want the bus to stop at YC. We didn't do that. The next thing we probably should have done (hindsight being 20/20) was that when it got to be later and later and no bus was coming was to jump in a cab to the GF and jump on the monorail from there. (The only thing I wish were different for the transportation system is that I wish it were possible to take a cab directly to MK, but you have to go to and from the TTC if you're in a cab).

By the time the bus for MK finally came it was a little after 8, and our ADR had been for 8. We decided it was what it was -- we'd just deal. We got to MK and they had let guests through the turnstyles but were holding them at the entrance to the train station to await rope drop. We, politely as we could, worked our way to the front of the crowd and explained our situation to the cm, who very nicely let us through.

Now, one of the reasons we love the early ADR is the opportunity to get castle pictures with an empty park. But we were all so harried by this point (it was a little past 8:30) that we went straight to CP to check in.

We took deep breaths, reminded each other that we were going to have a great last day no matter what, and sat down at our table.

For us, that marvelous CP breakfast buffet is all about the puffed French toast; this was my plate so I had some scrambled eggs and grits as well:
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0334.jpg
Ah, just as good as we remembered! DS loves the Pooh characters and, as luck would have it, had already had good visits with all of them at AK. He was the one to suggest that we'd take whatever characters came our way but that we wouldn't hang around for all 4.

Luckily, the two we got were his two favorites!
http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0341.jpg

http://i905.photobucket.com/albums/ac259/Weeden3/wdw/DSC_0347.jpg

People do ask us what keeps us going back to Disney year after year. There are many answers to that question, but there's no question that one of them is having a son who, at age 11, is still just so, so happy to be able to give these characters a big hug and interact with them a bit. Who wouldn't want to hold on to this part of childhood for as long as possible?

We were able to finish up and get out into the park by just a little after 9. We would have wished for a slightly less rushed and stressful morning, but we'll know next year to make the request ahead of time for the early bus to stop at the resort for us or else we'll hop a cab earlier.

Food: A
This is our favorite buffet on property. Sure, it has gotten a little less spectacular in the last few years, but as long as there is puffed French toast, we'll be here!
Service: A
She knew our tale of woe and she was all over getting us our drinks and letting us know when the characters were coming; she also was great about dropping our check early, as we asked.
Atmosphere: A
We all love the airy feel in here, and even if they don't have a lot of time to linger some days, the character interactions have always been really great.
Value: $57

I love all your reviews!!! Wonderful job with the pics and the comments as well. You have a beautiful family who seems to enjoy some good dining. Our boys are only 4 and 2 but we take them out to eat all the time and plan on continuing to encourage them to try new things, especially on vacation and at WDW of course!

We've only been to Crystal Palace dinner, never the breakfast there, but I did make puffed french toast once, using the recipe from the All Ears site, and my my my did it come out SOOOOOO good!!!! It looked just like the picture of it you posted too! We loved the dinner there so much and my boys love the Pooh characters too, so we are going back there for dinner on our trip this coming July! Maybe on a future trip we will make it there for breakfast.

I hope that when my boys get a little older, we can take them to signature restaurants and that they will enjoy them. We will be going to WDW every other year, and they will be 3 and 5 when we go this July.

It seems like you really enjoyed your trip! And I also know all about the HOT days in Orlando in August...both times my parents took me and my sister to WDW when we were kids, it was in August! And we go in July! It is hot but so worth it. We make sure to go to the parks very early in the morning (we're early risers so it works for us), when it is still in the upper 70s and pretty nice out. After lunch we take a break at the hotel and then go back in the evening when it cools down a bit again. So we spend the hottest part of the day avoiding the parks!!

[bleeps]

I love all your reviews!!! Wonderful job with the pics and the comments as well. You have a beautiful family who seems to enjoy some good dining. Our boys are only 4 and 2 but we take them out to eat all the time and plan on continuing to encourage them to try new things, especially on vacation and at WDW of course!

We've only been to Crystal Palace dinner, never the breakfast there, but I did make puffed french toast once, using the recipe from the All Ears site, and my my my did it come out SOOOOOO good!!!! It looked just like the picture of it you posted too! We loved the dinner there so much and my boys love the Pooh characters too, so we are going back there for dinner on our trip this coming July! Maybe on a future trip we will make it there for breakfast.

I hope that when my boys get a little older, we can take them to signature restaurants and that they will enjoy them. We will be going to WDW every other year, and they will be 3 and 5 when we go this July.

It seems like you really enjoyed your trip! And I also know all about the HOT days in Orlando in August...both times my parents took me and my sister to WDW when we were kids, it was in August! And we go in July! It is hot but so worth it. We make sure to go to the parks very early in the morning (we're early risers so it works for us), when it is still in the upper 70s and pretty nice out. After lunch we take a break at the hotel and then go back in the evening when it cools down a bit again. So we spend the hottest part of the day avoiding the parks!!

Thanks for reading and for your feedback! You may have given me the courage I needed to go ahead and try and make puffed french toast at home!! We definitely recommend CP for breakfast, and just keep the faith and you'll be in signature restaurants with your family before you know it!:love:

[slk537]

I really loved your reviews! We have an ADR for lunch at Yak and Yeti for our next trip and your enthusiasm has me excited to try it. I love reading about another frequent Disney visiting family with just one child (especially a boy!). Our DS is 8 and is starting to get a little more adventurous about food. I hope he keeps growing to be more like your DS.

You mentioned CA Grill is a favorite of yours - I know you didn't go this trip, but how would you compare it to Jiko or Yachtsman? We've done both of those, but never California...and I am really interested in trying it.

Thanks!

[bleeps]

I really loved your reviews! We have an ADR for lunch at Yak and Yeti for our next trip and your enthusiasm has me excited to try it. I love reading about another frequent Disney visiting family with just one child (especially a boy!). Our DS is 8 and is starting to get a little more adventurous about food. I hope he keeps growing to be more like your DS.

You mentioned CA Grill is a favorite of yours - I know you didn't go this trip, but how would you compare it to Jiko or Yachtsman? We've done both of those, but never California...and I am really interested in trying it.

Thanks!

Hi there! Hurray for boys -- wouldn't it be nice if WDW finally got with the program and put out some character meals aimed at boys? We can all hope....

Funny -- at the breakfast table this morning we were just talking about which signature restaurants we want to hit next trip, and we all agreed that CA Grill needs to be on the list.

I think that the CA Grill experience is more similar in some regards to the Jiko experience than to the Yachtsman experience. Yachtsman's really is your typical high-end steakhouse. We love it, but the room itself isn't all that special; once you are inside (esp. if you aren't near the windows and/or if it is dark out) you pretty much could be at a restaurant in any city. The menu is your typical steakhouse menu. Again -- great food, but standard.

What sets Jiko and CA Grill apart are their menus -- seasonal ingredients prepared in interesting, unusual ways. Not meals you could necessarily expect to encounter elsewhere (unless you live in/near a large city with a vibrant restaurant scene, and even then...). We do love the look and feel of Jiko, but nothing trumps CA Grill esp. if you can arrive before sunset and see the views (and enjoy the gorgeous setting sun). We actually prefer getting there while it's still light out, even if it means passing on the fireworks experience (they usually will let you return later in the evening if you want to watch from one of their observation decks -- just keep your receipt).

We all would definitely recommend giving CA Grill a try, and if it came to it for us we would take Yachtman's off the list in order to go there.

I think you'll find that your son's tastes and sense of adventure will really blossom once he hits 10 or so -- kids go through tremendous physical and intellectual growth at that point and expanded tastebuds and willingness to let go a little and branch out really open up your dining experiences!:thumbsup2

[Calgary DISHeads]

I've read such mixed things about Tony's. But it is the only place at Disney that has much of anything to do with Lady and the Tramp and that's my favorite Disney movie! Wondering if we should try it on our trip?

We did not have a good experience a few years ago at Tony's - not the service but did not enjoy either the food or the ambiance - however... DD12 insists on this as her pick this year so we have no choice - hopefully things will be better

[MickeyCrazed]

I rarely read dining reviews from start to finish, but I just completed this entire thread and enjoyed it very much. :goodvibes

DH and I had the same type of experince at Citrico's. The food was good, but we just didn't feel comfortable there even though there was hardly anyone in the restaurant.

[bleeps]

I rarely read dining reviews from start to finish, but I just completed this entire thread and enjoyed it very much. :goodvibes

DH and I had the same type of experince at Citrico's. The food was good, but we just didn't feel comfortable there even though there was hardly anyone in the restaurant.

Thanks for reading and I am so glad you enjoyed it!

That is SO interesting to me about Citrico's -- maybe it wasn't just us, then. We'd never felt that way in any signature restaurant before. Do you think you'll give it another try?

[JLS]

Bleeps, I just wanted to say that these were EXCELLENT dining reviews and I enjoyed the photos and the way you let us get to know you and your family a little bit. Without presuming to "know" you, you seem like you are an excellent mother and its great that your son is getting all of those experiences and that he seems to enjoy eating with you in the sit-down, adult-type of restaurants.

[need2travel]

Hi Bleeps,
Just wanted to say thank you for your great reviews & all the time & effort you put into them. My husband & I will be there in March & after reading your reviews I'm even more excited than I was before, we're especially looking foward to Yak & Yeti for lunch as we have never eaten there before. Like you we are on the deluxe dining plan & like you we prefer table service restaurants, so thanks again. (And tell your son I'm with him-if there's cheese involved it has to be good!)

[bleeps]

Bleeps, I just wanted to say that these were EXCELLENT dining reviews and I enjoyed the photos and the way you let us get to know you and your family a little bit. Without presuming to "know" you, you seem like you are an excellent mother and its great that your son is getting all of those experiences and that he seems to enjoy eating with you in the sit-down, adult-type of restaurants.

Wow -- you really made my day; thank you so much for the kind feedback!! Writing the reviews and responding to questions and feedback has been both a wonderful way to re-live the trip and feel that we've given something back to this terrific community, and you've especially made me feel good about it.

Thanks again!

[bleeps]

Hi Bleeps,
Just wanted to say thank you for your great reviews & all the time & effort you put into them. My husband & I will be there in March & after reading your reviews I'm even more excited than I was before, we're especially looking foward to Yak & Yeti for lunch as we have never eaten there before. Like you we are on the deluxe dining plan & like you we prefer table service restaurants, so thanks again. (And tell your son I'm with him-if there's cheese involved it has to be good!)

So glad to hear it!! I do appreciate the feedback very much, and I sincerely hope you have a wonderful trip and enjoy Y & Y as much as we always do!

[bleeps]

We did not have a good experience a few years ago at Tony's - not the service but did not enjoy either the food or the ambiance - however... DD12 insists on this as her pick this year so we have no choice - hopefully things will be better

I do hope you find it has improved; we really were pleasantly surprised and would definitely go again! We did, once, eat out on the porch (when it wasn't a million degrees out) and if that is an option when you go then I would give that a try.

[angelsmith52]

What a great food report!!! I am envious of how well your son eats though! I have a really picky child and I am just in AWE over some of the things that he picked! I think what put me over the top was the seafood that he will eat!!

You did a fantastic job with this report and I can't wait to read the next one you do!!!

[bleeps]

What a great food report!!! I am envious of how well your son eats though! I have a really picky child and I am just in AWE over some of the things that he picked! I think what put me over the top was the seafood that he will eat!!

You did a fantastic job with this report and I can't wait to read the next one you do!!!

Thank you so much! I think that our family has all had so much fun with this report that we're especially eager for our next trip, our next dining adventures, and our next chance to share our reviews!!

I think there's a connection between living in New England and having fresh seafood just everywhere -- it's kind of just an expectation that you eat seafood, just as in the Midwest (where I grew up) where the expectation is that you eat beef! I bet there are regional things that your child loves just by nature of where you live....

[LLLBelle]

I love your reviews! I can't wait to go to Disney in January.

[bleeps]

I love your reviews! I can't wait to go to Disney in January.

Wow -- congratulations on your upcoming wedding, and here's to a magnificent "Disneymoon!"

[zhazhazsu]

Wow, what a wonderful and refreshing dining review!

I love that you were fair in your reviews and that you are willing to take your own mood while dining into account while writing the review. Your family comes off as gracious and lovely.

I am proud you are also from MA!

[bleeps]

Wow, what a wonderful and refreshing dining review!

I love that you were fair in your reviews and that you are willing to take your own mood while dining into account while writing the review. Your family comes off as gracious and lovely.

I am proud you are also from MA!

:love: Thank you from the bottom of my heart! Here's to sharing all the goodness that WDW (and MA!) has to offer!!

[cdotla]

Thank you so much for your Dining Review. I just read it start to finish, and what a pleasure to read. You are truly a delightful family, and your reviews were thorough, helpful and exceedingly fair.

We are going in May for Deluxe Dining to many of the places you have mentioned...great little teaser!

Great job once again on your Report!:goodvibes

[martinolichfamily]

I just read through all of your reviews! Loved them! :thumbsup2

We are going in July with the DxDP...our first time to use any type of DP...we are excited that we will have our food paid for in advance and are able to try various TS restaurants!

[LUVDZNY2008]

Love the reviews & Food Porn-thanks :thumbsup2 I'm glad to read your positive review of Yachtman's Steakhouse, I'm thinking of eating there on our next trip, and I've read so many mixed reviews in the past.

[bleeps]

Love the reviews & Food Porn-thanks :thumbsup2 I'm glad to read your positive review of Yachtman's Steakhouse, I'm thinking of eating there on our next trip, and I've read so many mixed reviews in the past.

As wonderful (and addicting) as it to read (and write!) reviews, we believe from the bottom of our hearts that it's best to pick the restaurants where you are interested in eating and give them a try. On any given day, at any given restaurant, there will be diners who love their experience and diners who hate it.

Why not go ahead and give Yachtsman's a try? Especially if you happen to be staying at YC or nearby -- but in any case our own experiences there have always been good.


Have a great trip!!

[bleeps]

We are going in May for Deluxe Dining to many of the places you have mentioned...great little teaser!

Great job once again on your Report!:goodvibes

Thank you so much for the kind feedback! I hope you have a wonderful trip and enjoy many fabulous meals!

[bleeps]

I just read through all of your reviews! Loved them! :thumbsup2

We are going in July with the DxDP...our first time to use any type of DP...we are excited that we will have our food paid for in advance and are able to try various TS restaurants!

Have a great trip -- I hope you find as we do that paying for the food in advance allows you to just really relax, enjoy your vacation, and try some very special things!!

[Pooh&OurHunny]

I just finished reading your food report and enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing. We love Chefs de France (I too could never pass up eating escargot). Its great your son still loves Disney and the characters. My husband tells me you better enjoy Disney b/c when our son gets older he might not be into the Disney like now. I hope my son does not grow up too quickly and just enjoy just like your son. My son loves to eat different type of food too...he eats what we eat.

[bleeps]

My husband tells me you better enjoy Disney b/c when our son gets older he might not be into the Disney like now. I hope my son does not grow up too quickly and just enjoy just like your son. My son loves to eat different type of food too...he eats what we eat.


:love:

We've just decided, as a family, that we'll go back to WDW this November! We talked over all the options, and in the end we all agreed that what we'd most enjoy is another dose of Disney!

My son will be 12, and in 7th grade at that time. We all acknowledge that this will *likely* be the last time we can get away with taking him out of school. My husband wondered aloud if this would be our last trip and our son immediately piped up with, "NO WAY! You're never too old for Disney!"

:hug:

[weswife]

Hi,

Thanks for sharing!!!! I enjoyed all of your pics.!!! Excellent reading too! My DS will celebrate his 11 b-day and the next day i will celecbrate my 40 b-day! He picked O'Hanna which he has done in the past, he enjoys it so why not do it again!:goodvibes For me they picked the Coral Reef, this will be our 1 st visit there!

I hope I can complete a review when I get back! Hopefully its 1/2 as good as yours! Great job!!!!:thumbsup2

[SnwflkCts]

Very nice reviews. What an adorable family you all are!

I really liked how you fell in love with WDW on your first (and once in a lifetime) trip. The same happened to me! I told my DH that I just FELL IN LOVE with WDW -- and it was the MOST relaxed I had ever seen my DH -- so as you see -- we have been back a couple more times!

I think maybe I will add Coral Reef to my NEXT trip plan! It looked like fun! :thumbsup2

Felt bad about the iced tea incident - really bizarre. I wouldn't have known how to handle it myself - and I think my DH would act exactly like your DH. Though I think a nice dry tee shirt would have been in order -- or something.

Thanks for taking the time to share! :)

[TillyMarigold]

Yes -- on the last trip, DS was given a little 'driver's license' that was a really sweet little touch; it seems as though all those kinds of extras are gone. I wouldn't mind if they even consolidated their menu and JUST featured burgers -- if you're going to do something, might as well do it right!

Sounds, too, as though your approach to DxDDP is the same as ours -- we have it, and then we sit down and order what it is we'd like to have for a meal without worrying if it is or isn't on the plan and it all works out very nicely!
DH and I were both given the driver's license when we ate at Sci-Fi this past September.

[TillyMarigold]

We so enjoyed our cm that on the way out, I mentioned to the manager how wonderful he had been. It turns out that they have special little cards you can fill out, and once a month they draw out a name from people who've been recognized specially by guests and they get something (maybe it was a gift certificate? it was something decent). I hope our guy won. Please consider doing this when you have exceptional service -- mention it to the manager. It really makes a difference to the cm.
The prize varies, but yes, it is often a gift certificate. More importantly if your CM wants to work for Disney long term, the carbon copy goes in his/her personnel file.

They're called "Guest Service Fanatic" cards I think, and you can get them from really any employee at all, but the people at Guest Services and the front desk of resorts will be most likely to know what it is.

[bleeps]

Hi,

Thanks for sharing!!!! I enjoyed all of your pics.!!! Excellent reading too! My DS will celebrate his 11 b-day and the next day i will celecbrate my 40 b-day! He picked O'Hanna which he has done in the past, he enjoys it so why not do it again!:goodvibes For me they picked the Coral Reef, this will be our 1 st visit there!

I hope I can complete a review when I get back! Hopefully its 1/2 as good as yours! Great job!!!!:thumbsup2

I hope you have a wonderful trip -- how great that you and your son both have birthdays to celebrate! I definitely encourage you to do a review when you get back. It's a lot of fun, it helps make the magic last a little longer, and it's a nice little record to have for yourself of your magical WDW meals!

Glad you enjoyed ours and thanks for your kind words!

[bleeps]

Very nice reviews. What an adorable family you all are!

I really liked how you fell in love with WDW on your first (and once in a lifetime) trip. The same happened to me! I told my DH that I just FELL IN LOVE with WDW -- and it was the MOST relaxed I had ever seen my DH -- so as you see -- we have been back a couple more times!

I think maybe I will add Coral Reef to my NEXT trip plan! It looked like fun! :thumbsup2



It's true, isn't it? WDW really can be a place where adults just slow down and relax and really enjoy themselves.

I hope you do try Coral Reef next time! It's on our list, again, for our next trip, and I'm really hoping they still have that fabulous mahi-mahi on the menu!

Thanks for your nice comments and feedback!

[bleeps]

DH and I were both given the driver's license when we ate at Sci-Fi this past September.

This is wonderful news! I know it's such a small thing, but it really makes me happy that they haven't given up on them all together!!

The prize varies, but yes, it is often a gift certificate. More importantly if your CM wants to work for Disney long term, the carbon copy goes in his/her personnel file.

They're called "Guest Service Fanatic" cards I think, and you can get them from really any employee at all, but the people at Guest Services and the front desk of resorts will be most likely to know what it is.

Thanks for the additional information. Giving back in a meaningful way to the CMs who really do make the magic feels wonderful!

[KarenC]

Citricos.

DS was wearing a clean, crisp white t-shirt (not an undershirt -- much heavier/nicer) and chinos. DH and I also had crisp chinos; DH had a nice polo shirt on and I had a nice blouse. I mention what we were wearing because this is the first and only time that we all kind of felt as though we were being looked down on. Now, we're hypersensitive -- I'll admit that -- and maybe something about sharing the same waiting area with V&A's and seeing all those folks dressed to the nines made us feel shabby? And there certainly were others in Citricos much less "dressed" than we were. But it got us off on a slightly uncomfortable foot.


Just reading through your reviews for the first time. This was EXACTLY our experience at Citricos, although we're not usually that sensitive. We're not strangers to fine dining and find that the really "classy" places NEVER make you feel out of place. We thought the folks at Citricos needed to get over themselves and realize the work in a restaurant that's part of a theme park. We had a decent meal but we all agreed it was the most unpleasant experience of our trip.

Do try Narcoosees--we had a wonderful meal there and wonderful service. They even held our table long after our ADR time because we were caught in traffic as a result of a downpour and flooding roads. Good thing, because that was my 50th birthday and my DH had a Little Mermaid cake made for me that was waiting for us at the restaurant!

[bleeps]

Just reading through your reviews for the first time. This was EXACTLY our experience at Citricos, although we're not usually that sensitive. We're not strangers to fine dining and find that the really "classy" places NEVER make you feel out of place. We thought the folks at Citricos needed to get over themselves and realize the work in a restaurant that's part of a theme park. We had a decent meal but we all agreed it was the most unpleasant experience of our trip.

Do try Narcoosees--we had a wonderful meal there and wonderful service. They even held our table long after our ADR time because we were caught in traffic as a result of a downpour and flooding roads. Good thing, because that was my 50th birthday and my DH had a Little Mermaid cake made for me that was waiting for us at the restaurant!

I can't tell you how much better it makes me feel to hear this! :flower3:

We are definitely going to try Narcoosses now -- thank you very much for the recommendation. I'm delighted to hear that they treated you right on your birthday, too!

[TillyMarigold]

I can't tell you how much better it makes me feel to hear this! :flower3:

We are definitely going to try Narcoosses now -- thank you very much for the recommendation. I'm delighted to hear that they treated you right on your birthday, too!
I agree, Narcoossee's had absolutely amazing service. My DH even asked the waiter if he happened to know who made the tea he had with dessert, and the waiter told him it's imported specifically for Disney, but then went in the back, found the box, and wrote down the company name and website address for them. We filled out a Guest Service Fanatic card for him. (The only other person we filled one out this trip for was our Wild by Design tour guide.)

[bleeps]

I agree, Narcoossee's had absolutely amazing service.

I'm definitely sold now! Thanks for sharing!

[flipflopmom]

Don't know if you are around any lately, but you owe my family roughly $600. That's the cost it took to upgrade the 4 of us to DxDp again! :laughing: I was just browsing the dining reviews, and suddenly all the yummy foods we had last year came rolling back, the great appetizers, the convenience, the snacks, the snacks we brought back to bring home the magic. We had originally decided to try the regular dining plan, but YOUR review made me ask DH - "You sure you don't want to upgrade" and his response was "I think I do, see what you can get ADR wise.

A friend of his came back raving over Yachtsman, but I hadn't booked it due to the 2TS. So we have now added it, Chefs, Tony's, and will be returning to Y&Y. You enabler.

Another consideration for us was DD turning 10. She was not overly thrilled with the child's selections last year, and doesn't eat red meat, so we knew she would be somewhat limited, especially without appetizers. I am hoping she'll be more like your DS, and slowly try new foods. She has texture issues, so it can be a challenge. Her 3 year old sister is her opposite, loves steak, and will eat almost anything, in large quantities!

Thanks again for the reviews, especially from a parent of a Disney Adult child perspective!

[rachel09985]

Great reviews, looking forward to the rest!


Where is that Minnie Mouse Status in your picture? It is so cute!!

[bleeps]

Don't know if you are around any lately, but you owe my family roughly $600. That's the cost it took to upgrade the 4 of us to DxDp again! :laughing:

Another consideration for us was DD turning 10. She was not overly thrilled with the child's selections last year, and doesn't eat red meat, so we knew she would be somewhat limited, especially without appetizers. I am hoping she'll be more like your DS, and slowly try new foods. She has texture issues, so it can be a challenge. Her 3 year old sister is her opposite, loves steak, and will eat almost anything, in large quantities!

Thanks again for the reviews, especially from a parent of a Disney Adult child perspective!

You know, if I had the $$ I'd give it to you! (Another great reason to win the lottery!!)

We just booked our next trip -- we're going back down in November. We debated the dining plan to get (or, at least I raised the question) and both DH and DS said, "Deluxe!" DH reiterated one big advantage from his perspective, which is that we spent next to nothing OOP for food (other than those frozen coffee drinks at AK that we love!).

Anyway, I really do hope you find that the adult plan for your daughter helps expand her horizons and that you enjoy all the places you'll be dining!!

[WDisneyMom]

Found your DR last night and just finished reading it all...FANTASTIC!!
P.S. We alslo had Greg in Nov at LeCellier and thought he was awesome!!!! best server of the trip! I wrote a brief overview of LeCellier and Greg in my Mini Trip/Dining review linked in my signature!

[bleeps]

Found your DR last night and just finished reading it all...FANTASTIC!!
P.S. We alslo had Greg in Nov at LeCellier and thought he was awesome!!!! best server of the trip! I wrote a brief overview of LeCellier and Greg in my Mini Trip/Dining review linked in my signature!

Excellent! I'm off to read your review right now!!

[WAHMto5]

Great reviews...thanks so much for sharing!

[bleeps]

Great reviews...thanks so much for sharing!

Thanks for reading and commenting!!:cloud9:

[Mocharilla]

Speaking, then, of the service. Ahem. So I was a waitress, back in my own olden days, so I am very, very understanding, appreciative, and tolerant of restaurant servers. I know how hard the job is. OK. And then there's the whole signature dining thing. I do think it is reasonable to expect superior service at these places. The guy we had was just, so.... obsequious, while at the same time kind of looking down his nose at us. Weird and contradictory, I know -- but it was as though he was going to make up for the fact that he somehow thought we didn't belong there by going overboard in the "and how may I be of service to you?" thing. He made us feel pretty uncomfortable, he made no effort to engage us or work with us on our choices (and didn't even comment on the stuff that went back barely touched, where in a fine restaurant it is usual to expect that if you don't eat much of what you were served that the waiter will ask you if there was a problem and try to fix it). [edited to add that in retrospect, it was unfair for me to say that dishes 'went back untouched' because that wasn't really the case -- DS and I just left a bit more than we usually would but that was more the sides than the mains. I think I wanted the cm to read my mind, and of course that's not reasonable nor fair on my part.]



Just joining in (super late :P) and I'm not caught up to the end, but I just HAD to comment on this.

We went to Citrico's on our honeymoon last summer, and we dealt with a very similar thing. We had a female waitress who seemed to make it clear that we didn't belong there, and just decided to be overly snobby. We understand that it's a nicer restaurant, and we did nothing that, in our opinion, seemed any different. Dressed properly, acted properly, etc. But, she just seemed to be rude about us being there.

She proceeded to give us very strange/cryptic answers. Like, when we asked if bottled water was on the DxDDP when she offered it, she was like "It can be." and then proceeded to tell is "It's fine. It'll just disappear like the rest of them.". Then, we ordered the cheese plate, but my husband doesn't like blue cheese, so he left most of it, and she said "Ah, I see you're done with your cheese plate... Yes, blue cheese is only for those with sophisticated palettes, like all our food here." And then we were eating the decorative thing on the lemon cheesecake, and I asked "What is this made of? Is it actually edible?" as a joke, because we were curious after nibbling and wondering what exactly it was, and she just snatched the plate away and was like "Well, you've already EATEN half of it."

Just overall rudeness.

So, I'll stop hijacking your thread now. Just sharing a similar experience with strange/rude waitstaff. :thumbsup2

Back to reading...

[bleeps]

Just joining in (super late :P) and I'm not caught up to the end, but I just HAD to comment on this.

We went to Citrico's on our honeymoon last summer, and we dealt with a very similar thing. We had a female waitress who seemed to make it clear that we didn't belong there, and just decided to be overly snobby. We understand that it's a nicer restaurant, and we did nothing that, in our opinion, seemed any different. Dressed properly, acted properly, etc. But, she just seemed to be rude about us being there.

She proceeded to give us very strange/cryptic answers. Like, when we asked if bottled water was on the DxDDP when she offered it, she was like "It can be." and then proceeded to tell is "It's fine. It'll just disappear like the rest of them.". Then, we ordered the cheese plate, but my husband doesn't like blue cheese, so he left most of it, and she said "Ah, I see you're done with your cheese plate... Yes, blue cheese is only for those with sophisticated palettes, like all our food here." And then we were eating the decorative thing on the lemon cheesecake, and I asked "What is this made of? Is it actually edible?" as a joke, because we were curious after nibbling and wondering what exactly it was, and she just snatched the plate away and was like "Well, you've already EATEN half of it."

Just overall rudeness.

So, I'll stop hijacking your thread now. Just sharing a similar experience with strange/rude waitstaff. :thumbsup2

Back to reading...

Wow. On the one hand, it makes me feel a little better to know it wasn't just us, but on the other hand the kind of comments your CM made were totally out of line!! And sorry that it had to happen on your honeymoon!

Also funny to me about the bottled water thing. We've learned to ask, "will this bottled water be covered by the dining plan, or would we be charged extra for it?" -- because on past trips we made the mistake of asking, "can we get the bottled water -- we're on the dining plan?" and a couple of CMs said "sure you can get whatever you want!" and then charged us for it. When we questioned (nicely) the charge, we were told -- "well it's not COVERED by the plan but you can order whatever you want!" We wondered if the CMs really thought that by pushing up the cost of the check they'd be increasing their tip -- didn't work on us!

[#1hoosierfan]

I am new to the DIS, but I have become fairly addicted to reading dining reviews. I wanted to let you know that I enjoyed your report more than any other that I have read. We will be staying at AKL next year, and you have convinced me that I simply must eat at Jiko.

Have you all eat at Boma? I have also heard terrific things about it.

[bleeps]

I am new to the DIS, but I have become fairly addicted to reading dining reviews. I wanted to let you know that I enjoyed your report more than any other that I have read. We will be staying at AKL next year, and you have convinced me that I simply must eat at Jiko.

Have you all eat at Boma? I have also heard terrific things about it.

:flower3::flower3::flower3:
Well you certainly made my day -- thank you!!! I'm so glad you've enjoyed our reviews.

No, we've never been to Boma, although I too have only heard great things about it. Since you're staying at AKL it seems that you'll have to check it out! Several years ago, my boss (at that time) went with his family and -- believe it or not -- they ate ALL their dinners at Boma! And he raved about it.

Have a magical trip!

[Emily'sMom]

Just read this thread. Love your reviews, pictures and style of writing. Also your family seems lovely. I am little jealous however, b/c I am a foodie and absolutely NO ONE in my family is!! :confused3 My opportunity for trying different things is when we go to Disney and even then I have to temper the restaurant choices. My husband does insist we get the dining plan b/c he knows, I, like you, would order least expensive to save money if we were paying OOP and also to give me the opportunity to order something out of the ordinary. However, ADRs for Yak and Yeti, Jikos, Citricos-- I wouldn't even consider it! :sad:

For this year's trip- I am going to push the envelope with Teppan Edo, Tutto Italia (as opposed to Tony's or Mama's) and Captain's Grille. Would love to try Chefs de France, but I think it might be pushing it too much! My kids are little so have to do the standard Chef Mickey and Princess Storybook. Fortunately, Le Cellier is the place we all agree on wholeheartedly!

Thank you again for the great review and pics!

[bleeps]

...I am a foodie and absolutely NO ONE in my family is!! :confused3 My opportunity for trying different things is when we go to Disney ...

For this year's trip- I am going to push the envelope with Teppan Edo, Tutto Italia (as opposed to Tony's or Mama's) and Captain's Grille. Would love to try Chefs de France, but I think it might be pushing it too much!

Thank you again for the great review and pics!

First of all, thank you so much for your kind words! It's this kind of feedback that makes doing the reviews worthwhile!

I'm not sure if this will help, but here's my secret:

My husband was NOT an adventurous eater when we met. He was a steak and potatoes guy, some pasta, and take-out Chinese (the basic stuff) kind of eater. I would just always insist (nicely!) that he try a bite of what I was having, and for cooking at home I learned to ask, "have you ever had XX," instead of asking "do you like XX" (b/c he'd automatically just say "no!").

Also remember that no one will starve at any given meal, and that most restaurants (and certainly all the TS places at WDW) will work with you to get something that will work. So a place that has any kind of pasta on the menu will serve a dish of it plain, if they have a chicken or meat dish where the meat is sauced they will serve it plain, and almost every place can make a grilled cheese sandwich.

All by way of saying that on WDW vacations (our early ones) and other times, sometimes I say it's my turn -- we've gone on the rides you wanted to (or whatever) and now we're eating at a place I want to try. I know for myself as a mom, it's too easy to be the one who always gives in to keep everyone else happy!! But it has paid off over the years to push both my husband and son a bit -- and they've been happily changed by the experience.

I'm sure you are going to have a wonderful trip, and I hope you truly enjoy all your meals! My guess is that your family is going to love the places you have chosen and might be willing to take a step further next time around.

[flipflopmom]

Reviewing your review again! Quick question for you. You guys really look very fit, and I am sure that this week was a splurge, meaning, not the amount you normally eat! If it's not too personal, did you workout at WDW??

I've lost 55 pounds since Jan, and I am pretty scared that I'll really blow it on our trip that starts next weekend. I am thinking about running a few mornings, if I can get up and out the door to beat the heat REALLY early. I loved looking at the salads, and all the fish you had, which I think will be the key to not gaining too much. Since I run about 12 miles a week, I am pretty sure that the walking won't increase my HR enough to count as cardio.

Thanks, and I hope you don't mind these questions!

[bleeps]

Reviewing your review again! Quick question for you. You guys really look very fit, and I am sure that this week was a splurge, meaning, not the amount you normally eat! If it's not too personal, did you workout at WDW??

I've lost 55 pounds since Jan, and I am pretty scared that I'll really blow it on our trip that starts next weekend. I am thinking about running a few mornings, if I can get up and out the door to beat the heat REALLY early. I loved looking at the salads, and all the fish you had, which I think will be the key to not gaining too much. Since I run about 12 miles a week, I am pretty sure that the walking won't increase my HR enough to count as cardio.

Thanks, and I hope you don't mind these questions!

Hi there!
I don't mind your questions at all!

Yes, our meals at WDW are waaaay more food, and more rich/indulgent food, than we normally eat. But we don't work out per se on the trip -- we've not used the health clubs nor gone out to run. Here's how we manage:

We wear pedometers while we're there, so we know we walk 10+ miles most days (I think our high is about 15 miles, and a low day would be 7 -- but only one day in the week would be a high and a low). We're always really carefully, esp. after dinners, to walk for a while. Also, a lot of those miles are at a pretty brisk pace -- sure, we do stroll at times and the pedometer is counting that slow process of getting through an attraction line, but we also pump up the speed intentionally at times.

Next, we aren't big on the "clean plate club" thing. We think about what parts of the meal we love so much that we REALLY want to finish, and just have some of other parts. So, we do try to finish salads, we sample but don't over-do bread, think about how to manage the main dish plate, and rarely finish a dessert (unless we "saved up" for it during the rest of the meal!).

We end up using snack credits during the trip almost exclusively on water (we do hit the resort shop to bring back snacks to put in DS' lunchbox to use up extra credits).

And that's really it. Hope this helps! Congratulations on your great accomplishment and best to you in staying healthy and fit!

[flipflopmom]

Hi there!
I don't mind your questions at all!

Yes, our meals at WDW are waaaay more food, and more rich/indulgent food, than we normally eat. But we don't work out per se on the trip -- we've not used the health clubs nor gone out to run. Here's how we manage:

We wear pedometers while we're there, so we know we walk 10+ miles most days (I think our high is about 15 miles, and a low day would be 7 -- but only one day in the week would be a high and a low). We're always really carefully, esp. after dinners, to walk for a while. Also, a lot of those miles are at a pretty brisk pace -- sure, we do stroll at times and the pedometer is counting that slow process of getting through an attraction line, but we also pump up the speed intentionally at times.

Next, we aren't big on the "clean plate club" thing. We think about what parts of the meal we love so much that we REALLY want to finish, and just have some of other parts. So, we do try to finish salads, we sample but don't over-do bread, think about how to manage the main dish plate, and rarely finish a dessert (unless we "saved up" for it during the rest of the meal!).

We end up using snack credits during the trip almost exclusively on water (we do hit the resort shop to bring back snacks to put in DS' lunchbox to use up extra credits).

And that's really it. Hope this helps! Congratulations on your great accomplishment and best to you in staying healthy and fit!

Thanks a bunch! I was thinking along thoe lines of trying to make sure I got a salad as an app, although there are a couple of apps I have to try, eating about half of my entree' and then a bite of two of dessert. The desserts aren't my downfall, but apps and breads are.

I wish I could walk faster, but with dd3 in a stroller, that could prove to be dangerous! I am hoping to run a few times, but want a plan if that doesn't work. Some of our meals are a little later than I would like, but we do have planned to hit an EMH park and walk/tour afterwards. We'll have lots of water, for sure, fruit as snacks, and the girls love the frozen lemonade to combat the heat.

Anyway, thanks for your insight! I am actually stressing over this more than any other part of the trip!:rotfl2:

[danalee]

Just found your reviews, sat & read the entire report! Loved it, very nice.

Loved your points of view, much like my own :goodvibes

[bleeps]

Thanks a bunch!

Anyway, thanks for your insight! I am actually stressing over this more than any other part of the trip!:rotfl2:

Sounds as though you've got a good strategy in place -- hope you have a wonderful trip, enjoy your meals, and come back ready to plan where you'd like to hit next time!

[bleeps]

Loved your points of view, much like my own :goodvibes

Sweet:thumbsup2

It's always fun to read dining reviews, and I agree that it is nice when you find ones that match up with your own style. Glad we "met"!

[sunset30]

Really enjoyed your reviews, thanks!
Our first trip to WDW is in October! All our ADRs are booked, (as is our WDW wedding!) and my ds (3 - nearly 4) is very excited about "going on an aeroplane to meet Mickey Mouse!"
Your DS sounds so great about food and just generally like a great kid!
Lx

[Lisa29]

Just read your review and really enjoyed it:thumbsup2. I can't believe the food your son ate - I would love for my daughter to be like this but me and DH are quite picky ourselves. She will be 2 when we go in October so I may have to try and be adventurous for her sake. I want her to like better foods than I do!

Thanks for taking the time to do your report - it was a really good read and I am sad it's over:sad1:!
Thanks

[marvali]

Thanks for the great reviews. About time to make our ADRs for our Post-Christmas trip and you covered some I was considering. Sounds like I will be bumping Les Chefs de France higher up the list.

Sorry to hear about your DH's final day disaster. Having turned 50 last year I can relate. It reminds me a little of our oldest DS's birthday last July. He wanted to go to our local Ruby Tuesday for dinner, and he was all dressed in his nicest khaki shorts since he was going to meet his GF later on. Of course, who is the one who gets covered in tea when the waitress arrives with our drinks??? We felt so sorry for him since it was too far for him to head back by home before meeting his GF.

[bleeps]

It reminds me a little of our oldest DS's birthday last July. He wanted to go to our local Ruby Tuesday for dinner, and he was all dressed in his nicest khaki shorts since he was going to meet his GF later on. Of course, who is the one who gets covered in tea when the waitress arrives with our drinks??? We felt so sorry for him since it was too far for him to head back by home before meeting his GF.

Oh dear! Why does life have to be like that sometimes? I hope he managed to salvage his evening just the same....

Enjoy your trip, and I hope you have as good a time at Chefs de France as we did!

[jockey]

Really enjoyed your reports

[bleeps]

Really enjoyed your reports

Thanks so much!!