A Stringbean, a Wingnut, and a plan! (A January '12 PTR) TRIP REPORT STARTED!! 1/16!!

[MEK]

I think that drink looks absolutely delightful!

I hope you both love the Cali Grill! It is one of my favorites and we are taking Nick there in December because he will love it!

 

[MeMom]

Overall, I can promise you that Brynn will absolutely not feel left out!! There are SO many substitutions that can be made, and there are plenty of treats that are dairy-free already! (Dole Whips!) The main thing is to always ask what's available, the special options are not always advertised. But they're usually there! Disney is INCREDIBLY accommodating to allergies and special diets!

Although we do not have any food issues among our group, I can imagine how great it would be to hear these words by people who do. It is so nice that they can go on a trip knowing that they won't have to have some members of the group doing without or feeling any different not being able to join in the fun of experiencing Disney food.

All of that information you gave didn't even apply to me, yet it made me so happy reading it!

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

Can't wait to see the rest of your ADR's and see if any of our days match up!

That would be fun if they did!!!!

I think that drink looks absolutely delightful!

I hope you both love the Cali Grill! It is one of my favorites and we are taking Nick there in December because he will love it!

I really think this frozen cappuccino was one of the highlights of the trip for Wingnut!!! He CANNOT wait to have another!

(Please don't change your menu, GFC!!! )

I'm really excited to try Cali Grill! I'm glad to hear you enjoy it there and are going back! Where do you enjoy sitting there? I know the iconic castle view is in the main room, but maybe asking to sit in the wine room sounds nice too! (I read that it's quieter there, and there's a view of Epcot?)

Although we do not have any food issues among our group, I can imagine how great it would be to hear these words by people who do. It is so nice that they can go on a trip knowing that they won't have to have some members of the group doing without or feeling any different not being able to join in the fun of experiencing Disney food.

All of that information you gave didn't even apply to me, yet it made me so happy reading it!

Honestly, I've never been to a place that is so consistently accommodating and understanding of allergies than Disney! I know that I never have to worry when I'm there, there is always a chef willing to talk to me about my allergies, and in some cases (both chefs I encountered at Boma, for example), they will go above and beyond what is even imagined to accommodate the guests.

Here is my post about our dinner at Boma last year, when Wingnut and I were absolutely floored with the wonderful special Sara-safe meal the chef made for me!

(for some backstory, my allergies are mainly spice-related: cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, clove, allspice, etc. Also, mango, peanut, and lactose-intolerance (but it really only limits me from having ice cream))

 

[Merida]

I'll be sending you a PM for, er, relevance and length on P&F shortly. Once I look into how exactly I do it.

GFC is one of my favorites (and one of our definite must-dos). I generally don't like the look of the Grand Floridian, but I do like the Cafe. I think it might be the number of windows? And the food was delicious as well!

It is really great to hear how Disney accommodates everyone - my only food issues are texture ones relating to the family Asperger's trait, so it's pretty easy for me to get food that works for me. Is it difficult (in general) to find food free of spice allergens?

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

I'll be sending you a PM for, er, relevance and length on P&F shortly. Once I look into how exactly I do it.

GFC is one of my favorites (and one of our definite must-dos). I generally don't like the look of the Grand Floridian, but I do like the Cafe. I think it might be the number of windows? And the food was delicious as well!

It is really great to hear how Disney accommodates everyone - my only food issues are texture ones relating to the family Asperger's trait, so it's pretty easy for me to get food that works for me. Is it difficult (in general) to find food free of spice allergens?

Hahahaha I'm not too big a fan of the look of the Grand Floridian either. I think it's just the overall decor - to me it just seems a bit stuffy (like I feel like I have to be on good behavior there and not get the couch cushions out of alignment ).

In general, I pretty much have a general idea of things I need to avoid and things I should question. Apples and most treats around the holidays tend to be spiced, that's an easier one. But spices are also lurking in places I don't always expect them, so I've learned to just ask! Also, I have to ask much less questions at, say, Beaches and Cream, than at Jiko. But I love them both, and I don't let my allergies hold me back from having a great meal!

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

So today while I was briefly not on a Disney-related site, I noticed something on CNN.

Six best eats at Disney World (from Southern Living)

(Funny how it always comes back to Disney, isn't it?)

I gotta say, for me personally, these are not what I would call the six best eats. I mean, they're GOOD...but...well, I like mine better

Now, the article says "restaurants", but includes La Cantina de San Angel. So counter-service obviously applies. And so do stands. Because I said so.

In the world according to Stringbean, here are MY six best eats at Disney.

(In no particular order.)

Jiko.



Incredible food. Incredible atmosphere.

Beaches and Cream



Fun. Great food. NON-DAIRY MALTS.

Sleepy Hollow.



Awesome funnel cake. Seating with a wonderful view of the castle.

Grand Floridian Cafe.



Frozen cappuccino. Steak and Eggs. Beautiful atmosphere.

Boulangerie Patisserie.



Napoleons. Napoleons. And other stuff too.

Now, the article combined La Cantina and La Hacienda de San Angel. So I'm combining two stands within a few feet of each other.

Les Vins de Chefs de France/Crepes de Chefs de France





Chocolate crepes. Grand Marnier slushies. Grey Goose Slushies.


How about you? What are your top six?

 

[not_Joanna_eggs]

1st, you go on non-Disney related websites???

2nd I think I'm just crabby today, but their title of 6 best eats really implies best "dishes" not really best restaurants. and sorry, I mean I like them an all but tacos and pizza should not be on anyone's "best eats" list, even if you're talking about an airport food court! And definitely not when you're talking about Disney world!

And this is not at all just my grudge against Via Napoli talking.

Soooo....Um.. yeah....your top 6 is MUCH better than theirs.

My top 6 would be (not including V&A's because that's too obvious and shouldn't be in the same category as my other choices)

Kona (Tonga Toast, Sticky Wings, Kona Kones, what could be better?)
Cava del Tequila (Blood Orange Margaritas, glow cubes, guacamole much more "Disney unique" than the other ones)
Beaches and Cream (No Way Jose!)
Yachtsman (I seriously have dreams about that steak!)
California Grill (our reception was there, 'nuff said)
Sunshine Seasons (I just love the variety and the hustle-bustle of it)

Though your list is making me want to drag DH out of bed and get his booty to the GFC for breakfast!

 

[mousescrapper]

.

Some VERY detailed information and links can be found on mousescrappers - I hope you don't mind me linking to your report here, but your info is so good! - PTR "The Mouse-KIDS are in charge...", in this post in particular. (Her information is gluten/wheat, dairy, and egg-free.)

don't mind at all this is what the DIS is all about...sharing

How about you? What are your top six?

hmmm a very interesting Q...so in my brief interlude of dining at WDW (and I have barely touched the surface of this vast land I might add...) here is my top 6 list in no particular order either:

* Kona Cafe love the lightning, service anf food here...betweeen the Tonga Toast for breakfast and awesome dinner entrees YUM-O!

* Kringla Bakeri you just can't go wrong here (OK maybe the cold salmon ) I love the school bread!

* Earl of Sandwich too bad they don't serve the Thanksgiving sandwich year round...drool

* Aloha Isle Dole Whip Float is this the quintsensial treat at Disney?

* Tutto Italia feels like fine dining and your in shorts

* Columbia Harbour House I love this QS place especially the upstairs dinning area...

1st, you go on non-Disney related websites???

 

[MEK]

I can't say I agree with all those Southern Living Choice either.

I mean, lets face it, the best eats are the signatures with some exceptions. Ok let's see - what are my favs -

Well, I have to agree with you on Jiko

I love California Grill and Artist Point.

Sanaa (I can never remember where the two a's go) is another one of my favs.

I love LeCellier lunch

Chef de France is up there.

Flying Fish - yup - loved that too.

Yum - I think that's more that six!

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

1st, you go on non-Disney related websites???

2nd I think I'm just crabby today, but their title of 6 best eats really implies best "dishes" not really best restaurants. and sorry, I mean I like them an all but tacos and pizza should not be on anyone's "best eats" list, even if you're talking about an airport food court! And definitely not when you're talking about Disney world!

And this is not at all just my grudge against Via Napoli talking.

Soooo....Um.. yeah....your top 6 is MUCH better than theirs.

My top 6 would be (not including V&A's because that's too obvious and shouldn't be in the same category as my other choices)

Kona (Tonga Toast, Sticky Wings, Kona Kones, what could be better?)
Cava del Tequila (Blood Orange Margaritas, glow cubes, guacamole much more "Disney unique" than the other ones)
Beaches and Cream (No Way Jose!)
Yachtsman (I seriously have dreams about that steak!)
California Grill (our reception was there, 'nuff said)
Sunshine Seasons (I just love the variety and the hustle-bustle of it)

Though your list is making me want to drag DH out of bed and get his booty to the GFC for breakfast!

Hahaha I know, I know......but only briefly and between sites about Disney, I promise!!

I know, I thought that too! Like, I thought they were going to be all "Tonga Toast!" "Dole Whip!". I was just a bit underwhelmed by their list. Your Top 6 (I feel like Stacey ) sound great too!

I think they serve breakfast until 11. Yes. 11. I just checked the Disney site. Would you be able to get him to the Grand Floridian by then? It's SO worth it!

don't mind at all this is what the DIS is all about...sharing

hmmm a very interesting Q...so in my brief interlude of dining at WDW (and I have barely touched the surface of this vast land I might add...) here is my top 6 list in no particular order either:

* Kona Cafe love the lightning, service anf food here...betweeen the Tonga Toast for breakfast and awesome dinner entrees YUM-O!

* Kringla Bakeri you just can't go wrong here (OK maybe the cold salmon ) I love the school bread!

* Earl of Sandwich too bad they don't serve the Thanksgiving sandwich year round...drool

* Aloha Isle Dole Whip Float is this the quintsensial treat at Disney?

* Tutto Italia feels like fine dining and your in shorts

* Columbia Harbour House I love this QS place especially the upstairs dinning area...

Thank you for sharing your great info with everyone!!

Oooh your Top 6 sounds really good!! I really have to try Columbia Harbour House one day. It keeps making my list of places I really really want to try (especially being able to sit in that seating area overlooking Frontierland).

I can't say I agree with all those Southern Living Choice either.

I mean, lets face it, the best eats are the signatures with some exceptions. Ok let's see - what are my favs -

Well, I have to agree with you on Jiko

I love California Grill and Artist Point.

Sanaa (I can never remember where the two a's go) is another one of my favs.

I love LeCellier lunch

Chef de France is up there.

Flying Fish - yup - loved that too.

Yum - I think that's more that six!

Yeah, I was a bit surprised with their choices. Particularly the only signature being Narcoosees. I thought it was alright there, but that there were much better choices they could have featured.

Your list sounds awesome, I can't wait to try CG and AP. (And I think you got the aa's in the right place for Sanaa! )

 

[heathers4um]

Hi Stringbean and Wingnut!

I stumbled on this PTR, and then of course had to go back and read your TR before this! Congrats and hugs on your successful heart surgery and recovery!!

You and Wingnut are adorable, and you make me laguh - so I am here to stay! So happy you are going to the Boardwalk - you two definitely belong there! I am going to try to bring DBF to GF Cafe for the much talked about breakfast this next trip!! And can I tell you, the last photo you took of yourselves as you were waiting for Magical Depress...we did the same exact thing with the same exact faces when we left on our last trip - we do it every time!

Cant wait to hear more of your planning!

 

[petals]

I don't really have a top six we never really ate in lots of these places before I joined dis because we didn't really know about most of them.
From last trip though I like Sci Fi, O'Hana and i liked the food in peco Bills but didn't like how busy and confused it was

 

[Nermel9]

I love your top 6 choices!

I don't know what mine would be, they're always changing. I LOVE Le Cellier. That will always be a favorite! I love 'Ohana. Mama Melrose's. Boma. Sleepy Hollow is awesome. The fish and chip counter service in Epcot. Earl of Sandwich.

And those are just off the top of my head! If I really sat down to think about it, I don't know if I could narrow it down to 6!

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

Hi Stringbean and Wingnut!

I stumbled on this PTR, and then of course had to go back and read your TR before this! Congrats and hugs on your successful heart surgery and recovery!!

You and Wingnut are adorable, and you make me laguh - so I am here to stay! So happy you are going to the Boardwalk - you two definitely belong there! I am going to try to bring DBF to GF Cafe for the much talked about breakfast this next trip!! And can I tell you, the last photo you took of yourselves as you were waiting for Magical Depress...we did the same exact thing with the same exact faces when we left on our last trip - we do it every time!

Cant wait to hear more of your planning!

Hi, welcome!!!

Thank you so much!!!

I'm very excited about the Boardwalk, I think it's going to be really fun! Ooh yes, definitely go to the GFC! I hope you enjoy it there! The only thing is, don't eat there if you're trying to make a rope drop (it's a bit of a slower meal, but wonderful all the same)!

Isn't it funny how we have to document our end-of-trip sadness? That last day is always a bit of a killjoy, but I always try to squeeze in as much fun and Disney before we leave as possible!!

I don't really have a top six we never really ate in lots of these places before I joined dis because we didn't really know about most of them.
From last trip though I like Sci Fi, O'Hana and i liked the food in peco Bills but didn't like how busy and confused it was

Making my top 6 list I felt like I hadn't eaten in a lot of places too! I've never been to Ohana or Pecos Bill's! I've heard great things about the both of them though!

I love your top 6 choices!

I don't know what mine would be, they're always changing. I LOVE Le Cellier. That will always be a favorite! I love 'Ohana. Mama Melrose's. Boma. Sleepy Hollow is awesome. The fish and chip counter service in Epcot. Earl of Sandwich.

And those are just off the top of my head! If I really sat down to think about it, I don't know if I could narrow it down to 6!

Thanks!!! Mine are always changing too, I was writing them out like "alright, this can go on stand-by for the moment..."

(Yes, I'm a super supreme dork. )

I think I'd have to narrow it down to my top 50. Is that reasonable? There's just so many things to love about too many of the restaurants, and I don't think that's a bad thing at all!

 

[petals]

Making my top 6 list I felt like I hadn't eaten in a lot of places too! I've never been to Ohana or Pecos Bill's! I've heard great things about the both of them though!

We did O'Hana Breakfast with Stitch last year I loved it. Food was good and Stitch was there. Have much love for Stitch and he came to our table twice and when we were leaving I got big hugs off him again LOVED IT

Pecos Bills food was great but when we were there there was alot of confusion at the check out area and there was kids running around going crazy my dinner nearly landed on two little girls playing chase around the food area. Then momma lost me and I found her panicked in a corner so while food was good rest of pecos experience wasn't that good for us!

I think the other places we ate were Pinocchios house, Electric Umbrella which was freezing inside and I couldn't wait to get out of for that reason only and we had breakfast in Pizzasafari as well.. they were fine but the others were better

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

We did O'Hana Breakfast with Stitch last year I loved it. Food was good and Stitch was there. Have much love for Stitch and he came to our table twice and when we were leaving I got big hugs off him again LOVED IT

Pecos Bills food was great but when we were there there was alot of confusion at the check out area and there was kids running around going crazy my dinner nearly landed on two little girls playing chase around the food area. Then momma lost me and I found her panicked in a corner so while food was good rest of pecos experience wasn't that good for us!

I think the other places we ate were Pinocchios house, Electric Umbrella which was freezing inside and I couldn't wait to get out of for that reason only and we had breakfast in Pizzasafari as well.. they were fine but the others were better

Awww, Ohana sounds like fun!! I love Stitch, he's one of my favorite characters! (Although his ride, not so much...)

That does sound pretty crazy...maybe Pecos Bills is better during quieter hours?

I haven't tried those other three (well, I did get a bottle of water from Pinocchio's...does that count? )

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

Day 3 - Your Favorite Attraction in Tomorrowland

This is actually a tough one for me, a bunch of my favorite attractions are condensed in this land....alright. Here are my top 3.

1. The Monster's Inc Laugh Floor (at least, I think) is hilarious and adorable, and I just love that some of the seats have the little lights on them a la an actual comedy club (it's the little things, I know). I love the corny humor ("ah, Pennsylvania...the home of the Eiffel Tower!"), it never fails to make me laugh.

2. The TTA PeopleMover I just love. It's just 9 or so minutes of relaxing breezy enjoyment through the trailer of the attractions of Tomorrowland (oh, and a lovely view of the Castle at one point!)

3. The Carousel of Progress. I know it's outdated and shabby and that song is possibly even more ear-wormy than it's a small world, but I love it. And not just on the basis of "it's a classic," which it is, but it just has charm. And history. And awesome workout machines a la approximately 1940.

How about you? Can you pick just one favorite? Or three. Three is fine too. Six may be excessive, considering there's only eight Tomorrowland attractions in total...

 

[Nermel9]

I love Tomorrowland! I think my favorite attractions there are the People Mover, Carousel of Progress and Space Mountain! I love CoP so much, if they ever decide to close that down, I would cry! I know it's outdated, but that's what makes it so much fun, it's a classic!

 

[MEK]

Space Mountain is my favorite in Tomorrowland. When my kids were younger we lived by the......

First Park is MK, First ride is Space Mountain manntra. There was just no other way to do a trip. So space brings back wonderful memories of the pre-teen years.

#2 - TTA - love this ride. You are so right - 9 minutes of bliss.

#3 - CoP - Denny loves this ride more than I do. One trip he tried to ride it three times. I have to go back in December and pay homage to my old oven which was exactly like the one in the last scene.

 

[Stringbean&Wingnut]

I love Tomorrowland! I think my favorite attractions there are the People Mover, Carousel of Progress and Space Mountain! I love CoP so much, if they ever decide to close that down, I would cry! I know it's outdated, but that's what makes it so much fun, it's a classic!

Oh they'd better not close CoP down!!! I'd cry too!!

(I asked Wingnut if he'd cry if they closed CoP: "Um...no. There would be dancing in the streets. I want that 40 minutes of my life back!")

Silly Wingnut, it's only 21 minutes long!!

Space Mountain is my favorite in Tomorrowland. When my kids were younger we lived by the......

First Park is MK, First ride is Space Mountain manntra. There was just no other way to do a trip. So space brings back wonderful memories of the pre-teen years.

#2 - TTA - love this ride. You are so right - 9 minutes of bliss.

#3 - CoP - Denny loves this ride more than I do. One trip he tried to ride it three times. I have to go back in December and pay homage to my old oven which was exactly like the one in the last scene.

Aww, that's so fun to have a "first thing to do" tradition! I've enjoyed Space Mountain, I love the concept, but I hate how you have to sit in the ride vehicles all awkward, and I always feel like I'm going to hit my head on something (all 5'5" of me, I know ).

Hahaha I think if I tried to ride CoP three times in one trip, Wingnut would be at the busses heading back to the resort!