Best 'Splurge' dinner choices?

[2ofUs]

For our trip in early February, 2005, two couples 50+ need suggestions for a 'Splurge' dinner. After reading reviews, we are listed the possible choices.

I'm sure there are others, so we are open to suggestions. We all enjoy wine and are non-smokers. Don't know if that matters, but decided to toss it in.

Thanks for your input - Disboarders are THE BEST!

 

[Chuck S]

Well, a lot of the decision would depend on of you want an "in park" restaurant, or a resort restaurant.

I have not dined at all the choices you've listed, but I've enjoyed Jiko very much, and was very disappointed in Alfredo's. Are you looking for a venue that has mostly adults, or more a "family" setting like in-park restaurants. Brown Derby is good, but would not call it a "splurge" restaurant.

 

[2ofUs]

Our group consists of couples in their late 50's - no children. We are trying to decide where to go on that one "money doesn't matter" evening during our stay. It can be in a Park, Resort or DTD - as long as the dinner/atmosphere is worth the $$$.

My DH & I have eaten at: Le Cel, Alfredos, Cal Grill, Brown Derby, Jiko, Artists Point (and Chefs du France which I did not include here). I don't particularly consider all of the choices in the same league, but wanted a variety of options. DH & I prefer more boutique, private, romantic spots, as opposed to the 'oh, you really must eat here' status places. But, we are a group and want everyone to go home with the best memories all around.

One of the other couples live in Florida and LOVE dining at Victoria & Alberts and Wolfgang Upstairs. But they are flexible and will go along with any choice.

The 3rd couple is from Iowa and have never been to WDW. The husband picked out Palio, Yacht Club, and a couple of others I didn't include (Fulton's Crab House) from reviews. Can't seem to impress upon him just how LARGE WDW is and that it is no easy task to 'get there from here' when it comes to timing for PS.

So, herein lies my dilemma. Thanks for your responses.

 

[Scratch42]

I voted for V&A but try for the Chef's Table!

Next would be regular V&A.

Then I would chose JIKO!

Let us know where you end up going and give us your review!

Scratch

 

[disney queen]

there were quite a few choices i enjoy! but i selected V&A simply based on the party. however, if that is too $$$$ then definitely jiko followed very closely by artist point. good luck and happy dining!

 

[Terk-1]

This is a wonderful place to dine!! The food and service are fantastic and the views are amazing!!!

 

[dopeys biggest fan]

Definately V&A!!!!!!!!! But make sure you do the wine pairings, they are worth the extra $$$ but make sure you use disney transportation to get home, I know I needed it! LOL

We went with a large group and got our own private room with a long dinning table candles and all!! It was beautiful!!!

 

[ducklite]

Three are really only three restuarnts on the list that are worthy of being on a short list that will end up being one.

California Grill has excellent food and service, and a tremendous wine list, but I'm not sure it would be my first choice. The food is generally Continental with a Californian twist. Very fresh. There will be more kids here than any of the others, and it can be LOUD.

Jiko is phenomenal, the food is incredibly good, as is the wine list, although not as varied as at the CG. Shelly, Michelle and Ron are all reat servers, with Ron being the most polished, possibly in all of WDW. The food at Jiko is probably the most unique with it's African flair. There will also be some family's here, and it can also get a bit noisy, but not as much as CG.

Citrico would probably win only because it's the most "special" feeling and adult of them. Not many kids, a more formal atmosphere, and closed on Monday and Tuesday if that makes a difference. The food and service are both superb. Aicha is an incredibly attentive and polished server, you'll do well by requesting her. The surroundings are genteel and subdued.

Anne

 

[DisneyJen0504]

We got engaged at Californoia Grill and visited on our honeymoon so we are biased! The CG is wonderful! Great food and environment! Don't miss it!

 

[BCV23]

I voted for V&A. We've dined at all of your choices except Flying Fish and Palio...most of them at least several times. V&A wins hands down IMO. Romantic setting, impeccable service and most importantly wonderful cuisine.

I would also choose the main dining room if you want a romantic setting. But the Chef's Table would be a fun and delectible choice for six friends....just not as romantic.

 

[CRSNDSNY]

From your list we've been to: Wolfgang Puck upstairs dining, Alfredos, California Grille, & Jiko. And of those four, I voted for Jiko. It was a best overall experience. Food was excellent (and coffee was PHENOMENAL!), atmosphere was very interesting, service was great and it got us over to the AKL which we've never been interesting in staying at. But at least both Jiko and Boma will get us over to this beautiful resort.

 

[1stNoel]

I would consider Shula's. It's surprisingly refined for a steak house. The wait staff is excellent and the food is out of this world. The side dishes are also made to share, so it's a great place to go with a group.

Best of all - they offer free kids club at the Dolphin and they take the kids to dinner at the soda shop in the hotel. They LOVED it!

Shula's has always made for a memorable, relaxing evening for us.

 

[Uncleromulus]

Well-you have a fine list, to which you could even add the Blue Zoo.
But I'm pretty close with Ducklite on this, except I'd put V&A at the top, followed by Jiko, then Citricos. Her server recomendations are also on the money, to which I'd just add Nancy as your Victoria at V&A.
Let us know what you finaly decide---