"Make up your mind already!" WDW Christmas Time Dining Review COMPLETED!!

[DisneyCrafter]

…”Just how many times can you change your dining choices a month before the trip?”

Participants:
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/006_6.jpg


This is my DH, Greg, and I, Rachael. All you really need to know is that we like to eat, okay maybe LOVE is a better word. :lmao: Also, that we “tackled” the DxDP for our honeymoon in June and even we thought it to be too much food! :sick: We did NOT purchase the DDP, which looking back was definitely a mistake. Oh well, live and learn.

THE FOOD


Day One:
End Zone Food Court: Dinner (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34877764&postcount=19)

Day Two:
End Zone Food Court: Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34946708&postcount=25)
Earl of Sandwich: Lunch (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=34946751&postcount=26)
Magic Kingdom: Snacks (Casey's Corner, Main Street Bakery, and Aloha Isle) (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35025536&postcount=38)
Chef Mickey's: Dinner (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35025608&postcount=39)

Day Three:
Main Street Bakery: Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35093919&postcount=51)
Nine Dragons: Lunch (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35093966&postcount=52)
Boulangerie Patisserie: Snack (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35094115&postcount=53)
End Zone Food Court: Dinner (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35094154&postcount=54)


Day Four:
Wolfgang Puck Express: Lunch (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35368535&postcount=58)
Starring Rolls Cafe: Snack (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35368562&postcount=59)
Planet Hollywood: Dinner (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35368599&postcount=60)
Ghirardelli: Snack (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35368619&postcount=61)

Day Five:
1900 Park Fare: Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35369139&postcount=62)
Columbia Harbor House: Lunch (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35369160&postcount=63)
Cosmic Rays: Dinner (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35369187&postcount=64)

Day Six:
Boma: Breakfast (http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=35369227&postcount=65)

Rating System:

My favorite Disney Movie is Beauty & The Beast and I thought it only fitting that I use these images:

5/5 “I Love the Food So Much, I could get out of my seat and dance around with DH.”
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg

4/5 “I could/will definitely eat this again!”
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

3/5 “Bored. It was okay but definitely not a taste sensation.”
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

2/5 “I am really not happy with this food right now.” (Said through clenched teeth.)
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/nothappy.gif

1/5 “Worst. Meal. Ever.” (It takes A LOT for me to say this about my food, so if I do give this rating, it was B-A-D!)
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/disliked.jpg

[WeLuvDiz]

Rachael & Greg,
You sound like me, I will basicaly eat anything as long as it is not seafood:eek:. Have a great trip and I will be looking for your TR when you return.:banana:

[OurDogCisco]

Count me in!!! Sounds really good too.

Your picture with your dh is very cute!

Happy Holidays to you too...

[DisneyCrafter]

Rachael & Greg,
You sound like me, I will basicaly eat anything as long as it is not seafood:eek:. Have a great trip and I will be looking for your TR when you return.:banana:

I have tried shrimp numerous times because it often looks delicious, but it's not. I tried lobster and it was tender and edible but only drenched in butter. I just cannot get past the texture. That and when I was little my stepmother would force me to eat fish that my grandpa caught on his fishing trips and i would count the bones I ate. Gross! :sick: Not the best at getting those out!

Count me in!!! Sounds really good too.

Your picture with your dh is very cute!

Happy Holidays to you too...

Thanks! That picture was taken on our honeymoon at the Sandals in the Bahamas. So beautiful, I can't wait to return!

[MickeyNicki]

I am so in for this one! Have a great time, eat yummy stuff and take lots of pictures!

[natalielongstaff]

Yay ! count me in :cool1:

[bolgers love wdw]

Yum,yum,yum!!!:goodvibes
Can't wait!

[dizneeat]

Yeah! Another Christmas time trip review! I am definitely in! :goodvibes

[DisneyCrafter]

I am so in for this one! Have a great time, eat yummy stuff and take lots of pictures!

Yay! :banana: I am so excited (and maybe a little nervous, haha :rotfl2:, no really :scared: ) that you are going to be reading my review! WELCOME! :santa:

Yay ! count me in :cool1:

I hope you enjoy! :welcome:

Yum,yum,yum!!!:goodvibes
Can't wait!

I hope it will be YUM, YUM, YUM the whole trip! :) :Welcome:

Yeah! Another Christmas time trip review! I am definitely in! :goodvibes

Thanks! I really enjoy reading your reviews! :santa:

[MomsOf2boys]

I'm in! I love anything that has cheese melted all over it too! :thumbsup2

[DisneyCrafter]

I'm in! I love anything that has cheese melted all over it too! :thumbsup2

Welcome! I am very excited as our trip is only 4 days away and I have to start packing tomorrow! It will be nice to look back on our trip as I write my review. :santa: Happy Holidays!

[Tig67]

OK, so I am a picky eater unless it's fried or sweet. Well, even some sweet stuff. My family is also big eaters so I looked for a lot of buffets to get more bang for our buck. I am hoping it means my son will want less snacks. We are using the dining plan so I'm hoping to use the snacks and/or desserts to get muffins etc for breakfast. We will be there the day after Christmas to 1/2. We have ADRs at Hollywood and Vine (to take advantage of the Fantasmic package), Liberty Tree Tavern (loved it the last time we went), Crystal Palace, Whispering Canyon, and Rainforest Cafe. Although the food isn't phenomanal, we are also doing the Hoop-de-doo Review. Anyone ever eaten at any of these?

[DisneyCrafter]

OK, so I am a picky eater unless it's fried or sweet. Well, even some sweet stuff. My family is also big eaters so I looked for a lot of buffets to get more bang for our buck. I am hoping it means my son will want less snacks. We are using the dining plan so I'm hoping to use the snacks and/or desserts to get muffins etc for breakfast. We will be there the day after Christmas to 1/2. We have ADRs at Hollywood and Vine (to take advantage of the Fantasmic package), Liberty Tree Tavern (loved it the last time we went), Crystal Palace, Whispering Canyon, and Rainforest Cafe. Although the food isn't phenomanal, we are also doing the Hoop-de-doo Review. Anyone ever eaten at any of these?

I have been to Crystal Palace, for dinner and I thought it was just okay. A lot of the food didn't appeal to me and many of the "hot" foods were lukewarm. However, after joining DIS, I really would like to try breakfast there! I have also been to RFC, the one at Animal Kingdom, it was pretty good. We are there twice on a trip with my family because we couldn't get ADR's anywhere. Hope this helps! :santa:

[DisneyCrafter]

We're Back! & I can't wait to share my dining experiences with you but it will most likely begin after Christmas! :santa: It's crunch time!!!!

[GoofySon'sMom]

Welcome back! We leave Christmas morning so I will look forward to reading your reviews when we get back! :goodvibes

[msce2]

Welcome back! Can't wait to read about your trip!!! Hope you have a wonderful Christmas!

[macraven]

i'm so anxious to hear about your dining report!!

[DisneyCrafter]

Hi Everybody!

I will be posting my first entry tonight. Sorry it has taken so long but with the holidays coming so quickly after the trip there just wasn't much time! I went back to work today so I will be back on a schedule. I look forward to reading your comments once I begin my review! :) :goodvibes

[DisneyCrafter]

END ZONE FOOD COURT

Chicken Penne Alfredo

The chicken was all-white meat and bordering dry. The breading around the chicken was nice but a bit on the crunchy side (it was a little difficult to cut with a plastic butter knife). The noodles were cooked “fresh”. They semi-cook a large amount of noodles and then when you order your meal they finish cooking them. (I’m guessing to keep them from getting “gummy” and sticking together.) They did not give me enough alfredo sauce and I wasn’t about to ask for more, as it would have cost an extra $1.00. I am definitely a sauce person, so this definitely was not an ideal situation. The temperature of my food was decent. There was probably about 3 minutes or so between them plating my food and me sitting down and it was already bordering the not warm enough side. (I am a stickler for wanting my pasta to be HOT!)

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1507.jpg

My meal was served with a salad that they put “dressing” on. If you could consider what they put on dressing, it was an oil and vinegar mixture, heavy on the oil. There were no spices at all. It immediately made the lettuce soggy. I attempted to put some ranch dressing on it, but it was still inedible.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1508.jpg

Overall, I would rank this meal as a “3”. I would get it again because I am a sucker for pasta (especially with cream sauces) and I really enjoyed the chicken.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

DH ordered a Double Cheeseburger with Fries.

First off, the bun was soggy. Yes, it was one of the whole wheat buns. That is just how much grease there was served with the burger. The bacon was pretty much plastic. Also, when you lifted the burger up to eat it, you could see a pile of grease that had dripped off of the burgers. DH said he enjoyed the fries, they were warm and crispy, so no complaints there.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1511.jpg

He rated this a “3”. I’m sure the next time he would order it without bacon and hope that the amount of grease was just a one time occurrence.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

I feel like our overall AVERAGE rating suits this food court food. I did not really expect more than that so I was not disappointed.

[OurDogCisco]

Yay what a great start!!!

[danalee]

first you guys are too cute! cant wait for the rest!! :goodvibes

second....thats what i'm afraid of, we did the DDDP last time and thought "all we did was eat" lol i think a big part of it was it rained and I mean rained, poured, cats, dogs, buckets all but 2 of the 10 days we were there! so everytime we were waiting to go eat it was raining! ANYHOO... i think our next trip with the regular DDP we will be disappointed? I will be glad to see how your trip played out :goodvibes

[mindyd]

Great start to your reviews and looking forward to more:)

[pigletforever]

can;t wait to read more. like your rating system

[DisneyCrafter]

can;t wait to read more. like your rating system

Thank You! Beauty & The Beast is my all time favorite Disney movie. When I was younger, I had the sleeping bag, play tent and my Dad even surprised me for my birthday by taking me to Beauty & The Beast on ICE! :) Oh, the memories.

Great start to your reviews and looking forward to more:)

:cheer2: WELCOME! I hope you enjoy my next installment.

first you guys are too cute! cant wait for the rest!! :goodvibes

second....thats what i'm afraid of, we did the DDDP last time and thought "all we did was eat" lol i think a big part of it was it rained and I mean rained, poured, cats, dogs, buckets all but 2 of the 10 days we were there! so everytime we were waiting to go eat it was raining! ANYHOO... i think our next trip with the regular DDP we will be disappointed? I will be glad to see how your trip played out :goodvibes

Yay what a great start!!!

Thank You! I like to think we're cute, too! :thumbsup2 I promise our meals get better as the week goes on! Hope you stick around!

Also, I am having the same thoughts as you! We didn't do the DDP, which was a mistake. I would much rather not have to deal with "forking" out cash for every meal. But, as I have been making my ADR list for our next trip (which isn't even planned yet :lmao:) I am beginning to wonder if we should just go with the DxDP. I am really thinking they need a DP that includes 2 TS meals per day. Just sayin'. ;) Now, that would suit my needs perfectly. We enjoy starting our day with a good meal and ending it with a good meal.

[DisneyCrafter]

END ZONE FOOD COURT

On this morning, I had chosen for us to eat at the food court, out of convienence and it allowed us to arrive early to the parks. (Something I learned is KEY in getting the popular attractions done with little to no wait time.)

This morning I had Chocolate Chip Pancakes with Sausage (I usually prefer bacon but their plastic bacon is not considered edible in my book.)

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1531.jpg

The sausage ends were crunchy but other than that they were great. I dipped them in syrup (I love to do that with my sausage!) and that made it even better, I believe. The pancakes were warm (I JUST missed receiving fresh ones, I should have just asked, but oh well.) They didn’t need syrup as the chocolate chips added all the sweetness these pancakes needed. They could have used a little butter, as the chips were mostly in the middle, but I didn’t see any out (I’m guessing you have to ask for it.).

I rate this meal a “3”. My DMIL makes the most delicious pancakes I have ever eaten (she actually uses the “melt in your mouth” recipe on the back of the Bisquik box) so I am quite picky when it comes to pancakes. The meal was average, but something I would probably get again!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

DH chose the French Toast with bacon. The bacon was paper thin and soggy but yet somehow still crunchy, YUCK. He really enjoyed the French Toast, he said it was “Flavorful”. I even tried a bite and it was very good!

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1532.jpg

He rated this meal a “4”. I can be sure that he would rate it as a “5” if he would have had better bacon.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

WOULD WE EVER GET DELICIOUS BACON ON THIS TRIP? Hmm…

[DisneyCrafter]

EARL OF SANDWICH

I was SO excited to try this place and even more excited for DH to try it, as I had a feeling he was going to love it! Boy, when I read that the line is long here, nobody was kidding! We waited about 10 minutes in line, which wasn’t so bad but I was looking around and saw ZERO open seats. Once we paid for our meals, however, a table opened up inside (which was nice because it was quite humid outside).

I ordered the “HOLIDAY TURKEY” sandwich. I felt like I was actually eating Thanksgiving dinner! Even the way I felt after only eating half! (DH ate nearly the entire second half, as it was very rich for me!) I’m not sure I would order it again, only because of the richness. I did open the sandwich up and try each of the individual flavors and they were all delicious. My biggest complaint with this sandwich is that I wish it was actual turkey and not deli style turkey. I rate it as a “4”. Next time I go, I would like to try the BLT I think.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

The Holiday Turkey Sandwich- Turkey, Cranberry Sauce, Stuffing, Mayo (I may be missing something, but I cannot find the description online as it was a Holiday special.)
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1543.jpg

DH ordered the “ORIGINAL” sandwich. I do not have any comments written down about his sandwich. Only a heart. DH loved this sandwich. I tried it and it wasn’t for me (I do not like horseradish.) but he continued to rave about the sandwich the entire trip and still brings it up from time to time!

The Original 1762 - Fresh Roasted Beef, Cheddar and Creamy Horseradish Sauce
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1544.jpg

Obviously, DH rated this as a “5”! Our first outstanding rating of the trip, yay!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg

[gellybean]

Great start!!

I agree with you about the richness of the Holiday Special. I had it here in Texas recently and the gravy they put on it killed it for me. Way too salty. The more I ate of the sandwich, the worse it got, to the point that I only ate half. If I ordered it again, I think I'd ask for no gravy!


Can't wait for your next update! popcorn::

[DisneyCrafter]

Great start!!

I agree with you about the richness of the Holiday Special. I had it here in Texas recently and the gravy they put on it killed it for me. Way too salty. The more I ate of the sandwich, the worse it got, to the point that I only ate half. If I ordered it again, I think I'd ask for no gravy!


Can't wait for your next update! popcorn::

That's the ingredient I was missing, the gravy! Thank You! :worship: I really wish I had tried something else but there's always next time! I hope you enjoy reading the rest of the reviews!

[macraven]

you married a very intelligent man!!


the original at EOS is favorite for me too...

i so wish i had one right now!!

[DisneyCrafter]

you married a very intelligent man!!


the original at EOS is favorite for me too...

i so wish i had one right now!!

I'd like to think so, but sometimes I'm not so sure! :lmao:

[maxiesmom]

I'm enjoying your report and the pics. Waiting to see more!popcorn::

[ksl5f123]

Glad to see I am not the only one who dips breakfast sausage in the syrup. Makes it yummy!

[DisneyCrafter]

I'm enjoying your report and the pics. Waiting to see more!popcorn::

Thanks! My goal is 2 posts per week and so far I have accomplished it. I am very excited to start reviewing our TS places. YUM!

[DisneyCrafter]

Glad to see I am not the only one who dips breakfast sausage in the syrup. Makes it yummy!

I've done it for as long as I can remember! I only get sausage if I am having pancakes, waffles, or french toast so I can dip it! YUM!

[NorweJenNY]

I couldn't believe that holiday turkey sandwich! I didn't know they did something special during holiday time!

My family (ok, my mom and I) have made sandwiches kinda like that for years! We kinda mush cranberry sauce and mayonaise together, put it on bread or a roll, and add stuffing and turkey. We LOVE that after-Thanksgiving sandwich! I can only imagine how much better it must have been from the Earl! The way they toast those rolls just perfectly makes a sandwich so much better!

Thanks for sharing! :thumbsup2

[DisneyCrafter]

I couldn't believe that holiday turkey sandwich! I didn't know they did something special during holiday time!

My family (ok, my mom and I) have made sandwiches kinda like that for years! We kinda mush cranberry sauce and mayonaise together, put it on bread or a roll, and add stuffing and turkey. We LOVE that after-Thanksgiving sandwich! I can only imagine how much better it must have been from the Earl! The way they toast those rolls just perfectly makes a sandwich so much better!

Thanks for sharing! :thumbsup2

It really did taste like Thanksgiving dinner! However, I'm thinking I may like your recipe better, I'd prefer actual turkey over deli-sliced turkey. It just isn't the same! I agree on the bread, though. It is simply delicious! Mmm...if only I could get my hands on an Earl Sandwich right about now. :cloud9:

[martinolichfamily]

Great report... love the dining reviews! Waiting to see the rest of your review and report! We are going in July....it's seems so far away (we were suppose to go in March). :goodvibes

I know what you mean about changing dining choices.....I made our ADRs and dont know how many I have changed them... Crazy!

[DisneyCrafter]

SNACKS AT MAGIC KINGDOM

This was a day FULL of snacking! After seeing the many delicious snacks available in WDW that I did not know about until joining DIS-I had to try them ALL! (At least that’s what I told myself.)

MAIN STREET BAKERY:

Crumb Cake

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1556-1.jpg

The cake was very moist. However, the topping was not very flavorful (I was expecting a sweet flavor but it was just buttery). Overall, I rate this as a 3. I am used to crumb cakes having more of a streusel topping.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

CASEY'S CORNER:

Corn Dog Nuggets

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1573-1.jpg

While waiting for the parade to begin I was getting very hungry and when I get hungry I get crabby and indecisive. DH sent me away for another snack so I wouldn’t bother him with my crankiness! He he. They were served nice and hot despite not being fresh (they kept them in an aluminum container to keep them hot). There was too much breading for my taste. They were the perfect texture on the outside-crispy but not too crispy, however, the breading was bordering too much as the inside was quite doughy. I rate these as a 3. Maybe I didn’t get the best batch but I’m sure I will be trying these again.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

ALOHA ISLE:

Pineapple Float:
The beloved and sacred pineapple soft serve! I tried it (DH actually ordered it but I HAD to try it! I’ll admit I was skeptical as I am not the biggest fan of pineapple.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1547-1.jpg

I LOVED IT! Wow! The taste is just delicious, although I wouldn’t really say that it tastes like pineapple. The pineapple juice wasn’t the greatest and when we were back in MK later in the week, we each got a pineapple dole whip, no float! I am already looking forward to the next time I can have this wonderful and refreshing treat! Overall, the rating for the Pineapple Float is a 4. Without the juice, most definitely a 5!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

Orange Twist:

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1548-1.jpg

This was bordering, at best, okay. I feel like if I would have (Is it even available?) gotten the orange soft serve by itself I would have liked it more. I was definitely expecting a more tart flavor. Overall, the rating is a 2. I would not get it again unless I can specifically get the orange whip.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/nothappy.gif

[DisneyCrafter]

CHEF MICKEYS DINNER

Our first ADR! :)

We both had the Ham, Potato & Chive Soup.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1616-1.jpg

This is my plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1621-1.jpg

This is my salad plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1622-1.jpg

This is DH’s plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1623-1.jpg

This is DH’s “salad” plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1624-1.jpg

I wrote down individual comments for each dish and I will give those followed by my overall rating. The Cucumber and Tomato salad was delicious. I ate around the onions. The Bow Tie Garbanzo Salad was not very flavorful at all. The Mickey Ravioli was delicious but the sauce was entirely too thin. It was watery! I loved the Ham, Potato, and Chive soup, it was piping hot and creamy. Great comfort food! The Roast Beef was cold (as was most of the food). The Macaroni & Cheese sauce was also too thin. The Orrechiette Pasta was bland. The Green Beans were rubbery. The Broccoli was average but the cheese sauce had NO flavor. The Garlic Mashed Potatoes were okay but you could tell they were boxed.

This is my dessert plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1625-1.jpg

This is DH’s dessert plate.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1626-1.jpg

I do have to say I was highly disappointed in their desserts. There was definitely a selection but the quality was not there. I had read on the DIS board that the dessert left much to be desired but I am a big believer that everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Everyone’s palate is different!

The Cheesecake crust was a pie crust not a graham cracker crust. That definitely threw me off. The Key Lime Tart was actually quite good. The Oreo Mickey (which I was so excited to try) was okay but hard to eat the top and bottom together as the top was crunchy and the bottom was soggy. Yuck! I love my soggy Oreos after being dipped in milk (I shouldn’t have said that because now I want some-and I’m on a diet.) but this was definitely not milk soggy (if that makes sense). The bread pudding was SO dry. The best dessert would have to be their Chocolate Chip Cookies, DH’s eyes lit up when he bit into it.

Overall, this meal was a 3. Definitely NOT worth the nearly $100.00 we spent on it. We will not be coming back here for dinner until we have children and want it for the experience rather than the food. We had CM breakfast on our Honeymoon last June and it was way better and less expensive. If we return without kids, it will be for breakfast!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

Great report... love the dining reviews! Waiting to see the rest of your review and report! We are going in July....it's seems so far away (we were suppose to go in March). :goodvibes

I know what you mean about changing dining choices.....I made our ADRs and dont know how many I have changed them... Crazy!

There are so many more I want to try! Ohana, Le Cellier, Tutto Italia, Sci-Fi, Mama Melrose's, Kona, California Grill, Crystal Palace Breakfast, Cinderella's Royal Table, Yak N Yeti...I am definitely planning our next trip around ADR's. We didn't do that this trip and it just was not as good!

Have fun on your trip! I'm not sure when we will go back. I am hoping this November but I am not sure, it may wait until next year. We are planning to go to the beach around our anniversary and that is our priority vacation this year!

[shellbelle]

Can't wait to read more! :dance3:

[martinolichfamily]

There are so many more I want to try! Ohana, Le Cellier, Tutto Italia, Sci-Fi, Mama Melrose's, Kona, California Grill, Crystal Palace Breakfast, Cinderella's Royal Table, Yak N Yeti...I am definitely planning our next trip around ADR's. We didn't do that this trip and it just was not as good!

Have fun on your trip! I'm not sure when we will go back. I am hoping this November but I am not sure, it may wait until next year. We are planning to go to the beach around our anniversary and that is our priority vacation this year!

We ate at MM our last trip..got in w/no ADR by luck I guess....then I wasnt up with all the "needing adrs" and such! lol

This time we are goiing w/DxDP (which is a first on any DP)..I am excited although it looks like we are just going to be eating...lol
We are going to try O'hana for Breakfast, Crystal Palace for Breakfast and CRT for dinner this time around...allthese are new to us!

Have fun on your Anniversary Vacation, wherever you may go!! :goodvibes
I am actually going to try to pull off a Disney Anniversary Vacation in 2011...for just DH & I....I think it would be a different experience w/no kids.

[DisneyCrafter]

We ate at MM our last trip..got in w/no ADR by luck I guess....then I wasnt up with all the "needing adrs" and such! lol

This time we are goiing w/DxDP (which is a first on any DP)..I am excited although it looks like we are just going to be eating...lol
We are going to try O'hana for Breakfast, Crystal Palace for Breakfast and CRT for dinner this time around...allthese are new to us!

Have fun on your Anniversary Vacation, wherever you may go!! :goodvibes
I am actually going to try to pull off a Disney Anniversary Vacation in 2011...for just DH & I....I think it would be a different experience w/no kids.


When I went with my family back in 2006 we were amateurs! We did not make a single ADR. Then again, I was not responsible for any of the planning. We are at Rainforest Cafe Twice in our 5 day trip for dinner because it was the only TS place we could be sat at. I will NEVER let that happen again! Ha ha. :lmao:

[DisneyCrafter]

Can't wait to read more! :dance3:

Thanks! These reviews are so much more work than I thought they would be!!!

[Nancy for Disney]

Just stopped by after reading your tr. Enjoying the reviews. My family didn't like CM either.

[DisneyCrafter]

Just stopped by after reading your tr. Enjoying the reviews. My family didn't like CM either.

CM was great for breakfast (not as good as 1900 PF though, I'll be reviewing that one later in the review). I have to try not to think too hard about how much we paid for that meal when we could have paid 1/3 of the price or less at an Old Country Buffet here in the suburbs and had better quality food. My guess is WDW knows what they're doing-spend less money on food at places that people go for the experience more than the food. Oh well-live and learn!

[creativeamanda]

I've never done CM's, but will say I would probably only ever do it for breakfast and then for only the experience.

I understand the whole rubber bacon situation, too. I hate the food court bacon!

EOS is my new favorite CS location--I love it!

[NorweJenNY]

Still waiting to find bacon that's actually "good" at Disney...

That Dole Whip float looked disgusting with the green on top! Glad it tasted better than it looked!

And I actually enjoy Chef Mickey's for dinner... sorry you didn't. When I got those Mickey domes, the oreos weren't soggy. That doesn't sound pleasant. Too bad.

[Pooh&OurHunny]

Joining in....We did not like CM dinner too but my son likes going there so we will try CM breakfast (I figure you really can't go bad with breakfast food). Thanks for sharing and I can't to read more

[DisneyCrafter]

I've never done CM's, but will say I would probably only ever do it for breakfast and then for only the experience.

I understand the whole rubber bacon situation, too. I hate the food court bacon!

EOS is my new favorite CS location--I love it!

I found one location that the bacon was SUPERB! That will come later in the trip! :) I agree on EOS, I cannot wait to go back and try it again!

Still waiting to find bacon that's actually "good" at Disney...

That Dole Whip float looked disgusting with the green on top! Glad it tasted better than it looked!

And I actually enjoy Chef Mickey's for dinner... sorry you didn't. When I got those Mickey domes, the oreos weren't soggy. That doesn't sound pleasant. Too bad.

The Dole Whip Float was dyed green for the holidays. When we had it later in the week, it was not colored and tasted the same. Meh, I guess Disney has to go above and beyond! :)

I'm sorry too about CM, when I saw people giving negative reviews I thought "No Way!" (We had breakfast there and it was great!) I love oreos...I wish I had the domes on a good night!

Joining in....We did not like CM dinner too but my son likes going there so we will try CM breakfast (I figure you really can't go bad with breakfast food). Thanks for sharing and I can't to read more


You can't go wrong with breakfast food and I really enjoyed CM breakfast! Glad you are reading! :)

[DisneyCrafter]

Breakfast: Main Street Bakery: CINNAMON ROLLS

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We bought these the night before and warmed them in the food court microwave. DH made a comment that they were better warm (he had gotten one fresh yesterday for a snack). I thought they were good, just a little crunchy on the ends. This may have been attributed to not being fresh but I had tried DH's fresh one the previous day as well and it was similar. (I prefer the cinnamon rolls that are cooked in the middle!) Overall I rate them as a 4, I am definitely looking forward to trying them again!
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[DisneyCrafter]

Lunch: Nine Dragons

I got the CANTON PEPPER BEEF.

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The beef was tender but there definitely was not enough rice. It was very flavorful and served nice and hot! Overall I rate this meal as a 4.
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DH got the CHICKEN FRIED RICE.

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His eyes lit up after he ate the first shrimp on the skewer. The rice had so much flavor and was moist but not sticky. The chicken was moist as well. He rated this meal as a 4 as well.
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This was our second time dining here and I enjoyed it both times. I would compare it to standard Chinese take-out (although it does not compare to our favorite place back home). But definitely hits the spot if you are craving the American version of Chinese food!

[DisneyCrafter]

Snack: Boulangerie PatisserieCHOCOLATE CROISSANT

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Words cannot express how delicious this pastry was. It was moist and flaky and sweet and chocolatey all in one bite. Heavenly! Without a doubt a 5!
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CHOCOLATE ÉCLAIR:

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DH loves this pastry. I am used to éclairs having a vanilla custard center but DH loves chocolate so this was right up his alley. He rated it at 5 as well!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg

APPLE TART:

It was even in the shape of an apple!

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It was fresh and flaky and sweet and the apple were not too mushy. It was, well, wonderful. Definitely a 5! I was fighting with DH (he actually ordered it) over eating it.
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NAPOLEON

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It was so rich! The first few bites were heavenly and I was raving to DH but I could not eat the entire thing because it was just too rich and DH didn’t really care for it so he didn’t help me eat it. The custard was delicious and the pastry was flaky and crunchy but not too crunchy. I rate it as a 4.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

Dinner: End Zone Food Court

I was boring and got the CHICKEN ALFREDO PASTA again.

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I suppose it was also due to my indecisiveness that day. I was pleasantly surprised with my choice. There was more sauce this time. The pasta was hot and the chicken was a LITTLE bit more moist. The breadstick was served hot so it was actually edible and I ordered the salad with no dressing and put my own ranch on it. I rate this as a 4.
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DH ordered a PEPPERONI PIZZA.

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He said it was good but it had sat under a heat lamp for a little too long. I tasted it and I thought it was delicious, but you could tell it had been sitting out for a while.

He also ordered a side of breadsticks that were definitely not something to write home about.

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Breadsticks aside, he rated the pizza a 4.
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

[Pooh&OurHunny]

Thanks for a wonderful update and love the pictures. I'm drooling over the desserts from Boulangerie Patisserie...we usually have to go there 2x on our trip. My husband favorite is the strawberry tart.

[Disney owl]

great report & photos

[DisneyCrafter]

Thanks for a wonderful update and love the pictures. I'm drooling over the desserts from Boulangerie Patisserie...we usually have to go there 2x on our trip. My husband favorite is the strawberry tart.

I think next time we go I am going to pack some tupperware and take some pastries home with me! I am drooling over them STILL! :worship: I almost got the Strawberry Tart...I will have to try it next time!

great report & photos

Thank You! I am glad you are enjoying my review!

[DisneyCrafter]

WOLFGANG PUCK EXPRESS

The line was pretty nearly out the door when we got there but it moved fairly quickly, I believe we waited at most 10 minutes to order.

DH ordered the MEATBALL AND PARMESAN HANDCRAFTED PIZZA: "Niman Ranch meatballs, fresh basil pesto, mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, tomato-basil garlic sauce and fresh basil". He said, “It was so flavorful.”

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1716.jpg

I ordered the MARGHERITA HANDCRAFTED PIZZA: Tomato-basil garlic sauce, mozzarella and parmesan, Roma tomatoes and fresh basil . The fresh basil added such an amazing flavor.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1717.jpg

The crust of both pizzas was nice and soft, however, the middle on both was almost soggy. As far as service is concerned, we saw our “server” only when he delivered our food (twice, as the first pizza he brought me was the wrong one). DH refilled our drinks for us when needed. I love that WGPE is a QS location. I am looking forward to coming here again on our next trip! We undoubtedly rate this as a 5!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

STARRING ROLLS CAFÉ

I had originally wanted to stop here on Sunday evening during our first trip to DHS but being that it was an EMH night, it closed at 8 and we had JUST missed catching it still open by about 5 minutes! Bummer! Anyway, we decided to stop here today and try one of their cupcakes.

I ordered the MARBLE CUPCAKE.

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There was entirely too much frosting. If the frosting tasted better, I wouldn’t have minded. I don’t think I’ll be getting this cupcake again! Especially after trying Boulangerie Patisserie. It doesn’t compare, IMO.

DH ordered the CHOCOLATE PEANUT BUTTER CUPCAKE.

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He had the same to say about it as me. I was expecting ooey gooey peanut butter and it wasn’t.

We both rated our cupcakes as a 2.
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[DisneyCrafter]

PLANET HOLLYWOOD

I APOLOGIZE FOR THE BLURRY PHOTOS IN ADVANCE. THE LIGHTING WAS NOT THE GREATEST IN THERE.

We waited about 15 minutes before we were seated. My first impression was “How many tables can you fit in a restaurant?” I was in the mood and enjoyed the atmosphere. However, if you are not one for, or are not in the mood for, loud pop music and a building structure that lends itself for everyone’s voice to carry, I would pass. A little boy kept kicking the back of DH’s chair but DH must have been in a good mood because he didn’t even say anything to me!

As an appetizer we ordered the ZUCCHINI CHIPS.
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They were served with an aioli sauce which was out of this world! The only problem was there was definitely not enough sauce and our waitress was few and far between to ask for more. The chips were hot and had just the right amount of crisp, the only thing I had to do was add some salt and they were good to go! Overall I give them a 4!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/LOVEfood-1.jpg

DH ordered a CHEESEBURGER.

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He didn’t have much to say about it. I’m guessing it was nothing spectacular, just your average burger. He didn’t have any complaints however. Individually, it rates as a 3.
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I ordered, and was very excited to do so, the LA Lasagna.

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1754.jpg

I did not care for the Bolognese sauce in the pasta. Also, there was not enough red sauce on top (as you read in my review, I like A LOT of sauce). The pasta, being fried, was too difficult to cut with the knife they gave me. Because of the knife situation everything squished out when I tried to cut it. The portion was HUGE, I could barely finish half. I also spilled a piece of it down my WHITE sweater. Did I mention it is a TinkerBell sweater? *Sad Face* Individually, it receives a 2 rating. This was surprising to me, as it sounded delicious on the menu.
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I don’t think we will be returning to PH anytime soon.

[DisneyCrafter]

GHIRARDELLI

Even though I was full from dinner, cold because I was wearing shorts, and tired from walking all day, I HAD to make a stop here! The GOLD RUSH sundae pictures here on DIS made it a must do! We had a difficult time finding a seat and they must have been short staffed because all of the tables that were empty were FILLED with empty dishes. After we waited what seemed like, and was pretty close to, 20 minutes for our sundae we set right in!

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DH said it was one of the best desserts “EVER”. He rated the sundae as a 5!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg
I on the other hand had a completely different review (I know, I’m shocked too!). The “hot” fudge was not hot but cold and grimy. However, the peanut butter had a nice flavor and I liked that the sundae was layered. My rating was a 2.
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That just goes to show you that everyone has their own tastes. I still love Ghirardelli though and will be trying something else on our next trip!

[DisneyCrafter]

1900 Park Fare

I had a made to order OMELLETTE & it was out of this world! It was cooked perfectly to my taste.
The bacon at PF was delicious. The best bacon I have had on property as of yet. It was crispy and salty and actually tasted like bacon. The sticky buns were warm, soft & gooey. I WANT that recipe!!! I think I ate 4. *Laughing* The strawberry soup was delicious, I had 2 bowls! It tasted like a jello mold my mom makes that I love!

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There is no hesitation when I rate this meal as a 5 and DH fully agrees! The service was great and we left ridiculously full!
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[DisneyCrafter]

Columbia Harbour House

I was debating about getting the fish but I didn’t see tartar sauce-is it available here? We ended up splitting a tuna sandwich. The tuna was good but we couldn’t decide if the bread was stale or just toasted hours ago. We rated it as a 3.
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http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/average.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

Cosmic Rays

DH ordered the Rib Dinner

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1796.jpg

I ordered the Chicken Dinner

http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/100_1795.jpg

The ribs and chicken were fatty. I also got someone’s chicken that they sent back because the skin was folded over. (I didn’t want to make a scene and ask for a new piece. I should have…) The green beans were rubbery and the mashed potatoes had an…interesting flavor. Rating: 1. YUCK, IMO!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/disliked.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

Boma

I felt so SICK this day. I wanted to skip it but it was too delicious not to!

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The goat cheese & chive eggs were delicious. I am so glad that I decided to try them despite not liking goat cheese the one other time I tried it. I LOVED the banana bread! It was moist, sweet & soft. The bacon was okay, better than QS but not as good as PF. The potatoes were so delicious, me and DH are obsessed. We also LOVE the jungle juice! Definitely a 5, we still talk about it!
http://i1012.photobucket.com/albums/af249/grdabkey/DanceAroundfood.jpg

[DisneyCrafter]

FINAL THOUGHTS:

Well, That's It! I finished my very first dining review on DIS (and anywhere else for that matter). I enjoyed reflecting back on our trip in such detail. The biggest thing I have decided about as a result of this is that I will ALWAYS do the DDP! I did not think highly of the QS places before this trip and it hasn't changed. (Except, of course, for WGPE, EOS, and Flame Tree BBQ.)

I am hoping to take our next trip in November (over Thanksgiving). I am just not sure about the cost. We would like to go on a beach vacation this year. If we don't go this year, we will definitely be going next year. I have joined Sunshine Rewards, Inbox Dollars, and SimpleGPT, in hopes to gain some Disney Giftcards/Cash to be used specifically for Disney Vacations! It has become my "part-time job"!

I hope you enjoyed! :)

[njtinkmom]

Thank You! Beauty & The Beast is my all time favorite Disney movie. When I was younger, I had the sleeping bag, play tent and my Dad even surprised me for my birthday by taking me to Beauty & The Beast on ICE! :) Oh, the memories.



:cheer2: WELCOME! I hope you enjoy my next installment.





Thank You! I like to think we're cute, too! :thumbsup2 I promise our meals get better as the week goes on! Hope you stick around!

Also, I am having the same thoughts as you! We didn't do the DDP, which was a mistake. I would much rather not have to deal with "forking" out cash for every meal. But, as I have been making my ADR list for our next trip (which isn't even planned yet :lmao:) I am beginning to wonder if we should just go with the DxDP. I am really thinking they need a DP that includes 2 TS meals per day. Just sayin'. ;) Now, that would suit my needs perfectly. We enjoy starting our day with a good meal and ending it with a good meal.

I agree a perfect DP would be 2 TS and 2 snacks a day. 3 meals in a day is just tooooo much with the TS portions you get. Plus I don't want to be wasting precious park time eating all the day away!!! Great Report:cool1:!

[KristenHoneymooner]

I really enjoyed your reviews! :cheer2: It brought back great memories of WPE. I think we used half of our counter service credits there.

Incidentally, bacon dipped in syrup is even better than sausage dipped in syrup! :cloud9:

[thejman]

Glad to hear your good review of Park Fare. We are planning on going there on our next trip. I also agree with your Cosmic Rays review. I did not enjoy the food there on my last trip. Thanks for you great reviews. I really enjoyed them.:)

[DisneyCrafter]

I really enjoyed your reviews! :cheer2: It brought back great memories of WPE. I think we used half of our counter service credits there.

Incidentally, bacon dipped in syrup is even better than sausage dipped in syrup! :cloud9:

When we go back, we are most likely doing the DDP and will be using some of our CS credits at WGPE! YUM...:cloud9:

I agree a perfect DP would be 2 TS and 2 snacks a day. 3 meals in a day is just tooooo much with the TS portions you get. Plus I don't want to be wasting precious park time eating all the day away!!! Great Report:cool1:!


Now we must figure out which meals are the cheapest to pay OOP for, because I am NOT sacrificing my must do list (which I am working on tonight)! :laughing: You not wanting to sacrifice precious time in the park is exactly the reason why we didn't do a DP last trip and I was sooo tired! I think, for me, the next trip will be a couple days longer to ensure I still see everything but also to take it easier!
Glad to hear your good review of Park Fare. We are planning on going there on our next trip. I also agree with your Cosmic Rays review. I did not enjoy the food there on my last trip. Thanks for you great reviews. I really enjoyed them.:)

[martinolichfamily]

:thumbsup2
Just finished up reading your reviews! Great job..loved them!
Boma will be a first for us for breakfast.....it looks great so I am patiently waiting til July! :rotfl: