Best 2-course Dinner under $35

[Lord Fantasius]

I need a little help as I'm coordinating a dinner for a group of 8 - 12 professional manager-level types (but not sr. exec's) during a seminar we're having next month (February). Transportation is minorly an issue so would prefer to stay on-property as a number of them have not experienced WDW dining at it's fullest.

Three other conditions - 1) Besides being on-property, must not be at a theme park as we will be in meetings all day and not worth it to pay a park entry just for a meal; 2) we will probably be splitting the check 3 ways so need a restaurant that doesn't mind separate checks/payments; and 3) the limit for our reimbursement for this meal is $35 and we don't want to start out more than that (hey, we're efficient, not cheap), though drinks/dessert we don't mind paying for ourselves.

From my limited experience in dining at WDW, but from reading through these threads as well as allears.net, I'm thinking either an all-you-can-eat option since we like to have fun and experiment while traveling, or a nicer sit-down restaurant. First question, does anybody know whether the menu prices listed on allears is still fairly accurate?

My first set of choices would be - 1) Boma, 2) 'Ohana, or 3) Cape May Cafe, at $24.99pp. (I'd really like to do Boma, but 'Ohana's family-style service at the table might beat out Boma's walk to the pods for us)

Then for sit-down, I would have to decide between - 1) Concourse Steakhouse, 2) Artist Point, 3) Kona Cafe, or 4) Palio; where we could come in under $35 if we were thrifty.

Then lastly, pushing the envelope if we want to dig into our own pockets (though not too deeply) - 1) California Grill, or 2) Jiko.

Everyone? Are any of the above sit-down table-service meals worth the extra $10 or more above Boma, 'Ohana, or Cape May?

Thanks, R

 

[Forever42]

First question, does anybody know whether the menu prices listed on allears is still fairly accurate?

In general, yes, though things do change before they get a chance to update.

My first set of choices would be - 1) Boma, 2) 'Ohana, or 3) Cape May Cafe, at $24.99pp. (I'd really like to do Boma, but 'Ohana's family-style service at the table might beat out Boma's walk to the pods for us)

We haven't done Cape May's, but I agree with your comment - I think Boma is much better but family style might be better for conversation in a gathering.

Then for sit-down, I would have to decide between - 1) Concourse Steakhouse, 2) Artist Point, 3) Kona Cafe, or 4) Palio; where we could come in under $35 if we were thrifty.

Kona was going to be what I suggested when I saw the title. It's our favorite moderate priced Disney restaurant. The food is great, service is efficient, and the desserts are excellent. Artist Point, we've never had a great meal there and I don't know that we'll go back. Same for Palio.

Then lastly, pushing the envelope if we want to dig into our own pockets (though not too deeply) - 1) California Grill, or 2) Jiko.

Definitely Jiko, if you're going this route. Superior in food, service, and atmosphere.

Jiko is worth it, if you're willing to spend a bit over. For Kona, Concourse, etc... that's really up to you. We'll choose Boma over Kona if that's what we're in the mood for. It just depends.

 

[Cheshire Figment]

I would definitely say Boma for a first choice. The variety is fantastic and there is food for both the adventurous and non.

For Table Service I would have a toss-up between Kona and Concourse, with Kona probably having the edge again due to the variety of foods.

Likewise for a splurge Jiko is wonderful. I think CG is a bit overrated and pretentious.

 

[mrzrich]

1) Set price under $35
2) Check easily split
3) The food comes to you and its yummy and plentiful
4)If somebody doesn't like the steak, they can have more shrimp, or pork, or turkey, or saausage, or salad, or desert!!!!!!

 

[ducklite]

I would not go for Boma or Ohana.

There might be people in your party who do not care for those types of foods. My family is pretty adventurous, and none of us are clamouring to go back. None of us have ever dined at Ohana, and never plan on it, it's not at all interesting to us. At Cape May Cafe, there is more selection, even for non-seafood eaters, although IMHO the food there just isn't very good and service is hit or miss-more often than not "miss" being the key word these days. In my experience, Boma doesn't handle food allergies well either.

I'd go for the Kona Cafe. The food is excellent and filling. You can eat there in your price range and be very happy. There are a variety of entrees, and they can modify many of the items for you as well. The service is great.

Anne

 

[patsal]

Artist Point, Jiko and California Grille are bound to go over the $35 easily and quickly. Most of the starters are at or above $10.00 and most entrees are at the $25.00-35 level. To eat at these places and not feel limited the budget should be at least $70 per person. If everyone is frugal I suppose it could work, but to give the best and most relaxed experience I would choose something all inclusive like 'Ohana where the only extras would be specialty beverages.

 

[frozone]

I would definitely go with one of the first three options; they are all great and no one has to worry about spending beyond the limit.

If there's any chance that there is a vegetarian in your party, I'd go with Boma. Plus, it's just a really wonderful, cool meal with the best food out of the three options. I wouldn't think you'd get that much more interaction with the family style at O'Hana, plus the games for kids there can be very loud and don't make for a very professional setting. The tone at Boma's is less chaotic, IMO.