DLR Dining

[WanderlustNZ]

With less than a month now until dining bookings open up for my trip, I'm feeling very indecisive about where to make my 2 or 3 bookings. I think I have my mind made up and then I read a review and change it.

I'm keen to hear your experiences and recommendations for DL, DCA, and even Downtown Disney, restaurants. Not just in terms of food quality, but also theming, ambience, and value for money.

I should mention that we are limited somewhat when it comes to budget. While Blue Bayou and dinner at Carthay Circle look great, it's just not an area of the trip where I'm prepared to stretch the purse strings.

Also, I have breakfast included as part of my hotel rate at Park Vue Inn, and a character breakfast booked a few days later at Aulani. So with this in mind, I wasn't planning on paying extra for a character experience at DLR. However, if people think this decision is short-sighted, I am open to feedback.

Thanks everyone.

 

[PrincessInOz]

Dining at DLR is very different to dining at WDW. It's just so much more casual there and unless it's somewhere like the Blue Bayou, Napa Rose or a character meal at Goofy's Kitchen or Storytellers, I've never really booked.

My favourites at DL include:

• Cafe Orleans
• French Market
• Hungry Bear (the highlight meal is the fried tomato sandwich but the burgers were good and the sweet potato fries were decent. The view along the river is a bonus!)
• Plaza Inn (the fried chicken here is amazing)
• Rancho del Zocalo
• Village Haus

My favourites at DCA include:

• Wine Country (I haven't eaten there in an age and you might want to see if you need to book this one or if the food is still of a decent standard)
• Paradise Garden Grill (the kebabs are really good value here)
• Anything around Paradise Pier that grabs you

I haven't really eaten all that much in Carsland; but I guess there will be places there worth eating at.



There are heaps of options at DTD. And it's all walking distance.

• Ralph Brennans
• Naples
• La Brea
• Uva Bar (I was introduced to the lamb burger there on my last trip. It was very good!)
• Catal

There's also House of Blues, Rainforest and Earl of Sandwich at DTD.


A little further afield but within walking distance:

• Cheesecake Factory
• Bubba Gumps
• PF Changs
• Mimi's Cafe

Plus the myriad of other options around South Harbour, Katella etc.


Have fun!

 

[Cubicleprisoner]

I've made two trips to DLR and have dined at The Carnation Cafe three times. Their food is reasonably priced and it's tasty.

 

[zanzibar138]

Honestly, knowing what you have planned already and that you'll be somewhat pressed for time, I wouldn't bother making any ressies except for your WOC package. CS food is very good at DLR and readily available, and if you go somewhere with a view, like Hungry Bear or Flo's, you can linger over your meal and turn it into a decent enough break.

The TS meals we did don't really apply to you, so I don't feel like I can offer much insight Here's what we did:

* Gospel Brunch at HOB - great to do once, but wouldn't bother again (but too much of a time zap for you anyway)
* Minnie character breakfast at the Plaza Inn - very enjoyable, great character interaction (but you've already said you don't need a character breakfast)
* Lunch at BB - loved the atmosphere, food was ok (but you've already said it's out)
* WOC Dinner at Ariel's - food was ok, but meal was very rushed and not special (but you already plan to do this one)

The only places we ate that might be relevant to you would be (both in DTD):

* Lunch at Tortilla Joes - it was fine, not a stand-out, but not bad either (but it was our first day and we were both pretty jet-lagged - in fact, I nearly forgot to mention it at all!)
* Dinner at Naples - very enjoyable, great food and service
* Breakfast (on multiple occasions) at LaBrea - ditto

I would be happy to go back to any of those places for lunch. I wouldn't think you'd have any problem getting a lunch ressie for any of them on the day as most people tend to eat in the parks.

FWIW, we tried to get a same day booking for Wine Country Trattoria for dinner on a Saturday (during a quiet time) and were unsuccessful.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Dining at DLR is very different to dining at WDW. It's just so much more casual there and unless it's somewhere like the Blue Bayou, Napa Rose or a character meal at Goofy's Kitchen or Storytellers, I've never really booked. My favourites at DL include: [*]Cafe Orleans [*]French Market [*]Hungry Bear (the highlight meal is the fried tomato sandwich but the burgers were good and the sweet potato fries were decent. The view along the river is a bonus!) [*]Plaza Inn (the fried chicken here is amazing) [*]Rancho del Zocalo [*]Village Haus My favourites at DCA include: [*]Wine Country (I haven't eaten there in an age and you might want to see if you need to book this one or if the food is still of a decent standard) [*]Paradise Garden Grill (the kebabs are really good value here) [*]Anything around Paradise Pier that grabs you I haven't really eaten all that much in Carsland; but I guess there will be places there worth eating at. There are heaps of options at DTD. And it's all walking distance. [*]Ralph Brennans [*]Naples [*]La Brea [*]Uva Bar (I was introduced to the lamb burger there on my last trip. It was very good!) [*]Catal There's also House of Blues, Rainforest and Earl of Sandwich at DTD. A little further afield but within walking distance: [*]Cheesecake Factory [*]Bubba Gumps [*]PF Changs [*]Mimi's Cafe Plus the myriad of other options around South Harbour, Katella etc. Have fun!

Thanks PIO. It's great to hear your feedback on the places you've eaten at.

It took me a while to get my head around the fact that DLR dining is so different to WDW. We loved our sit down family meals at WDW. They were a great way to slow down for a bit, escape the heat, and reflect on our favourite parts of the day so far.
I'm guessing though that because the Anaheim heat isn't as oppressive as Orlando's, people are less keen to give up large chunks of their day to a meal. I need to take a closer look at the quick service places you suggested to decide whether I would be happier to go with the flow.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

I've made two trips to DLR and have dined at The Carnation Cafe three times. Their food is reasonably priced and it's tasty.

Thanks. I haven't actually looked at the Carnation Cafe menu yet. I'll have to check it out.

 

[PrincessInOz]

Some of those are table service places. I've usually just walked out and figured out how long the wait is before deciding to stay or go somewhere else.

The thing to remember is that there is ALWAYS DTD or any of the places outside on South Harbour and/or Katella.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Honestly, knowing what you have planned already and that you'll be somewhat pressed for time, I wouldn't bother making any ressies except for your WOC package. CS food is very good at DLR and readily available, and if you go somewhere with a view, like Hungry Bear or Flo's, you can linger over your meal and turn it into a decent enough break. The TS meals we did don't really apply to you, so I don't feel like I can offer much insight Here's what we did: * Gospel Brunch at HOB - great to do once, but wouldn't bother again (but too much of a time zap for you anyway) * Minnie character breakfast at the Plaza Inn - very enjoyable, great character interaction (but you've already said you don't need a character breakfast) * Lunch at BB - loved the atmosphere, food was ok (but you've already said it's out) * WOC Dinner at Ariel's - food was ok, but meal was very rushed and not special (but you already plan to do this one) The only places we ate that might be relevant to you would be (both in DTD): * Lunch at Tortilla Joes - it was fine, not a stand-out, but not bad either (but it was our first day and we were both pretty jet-lagged - in fact, I nearly forgot to mention it at all!) * Dinner at Naples - very enjoyable, great food and service * Breakfast (on multiple occasions) at LaBrea - ditto I would be happy to go back to any of those places for lunch. I wouldn't think you'd have any problem getting a lunch ressie for any of them on the day as most people tend to eat in the parks. FWIW, we tried to get a same day booking for Wine Country Trattoria for dinner on a Saturday (during a quiet time) and were unsuccessful.

You could be right.

I must admit, eating at Flo's does definitely appeal as my DS loves Cars. And while I'm not familiar with Hungry Bears, I'm going to check it out.

I still haven't fully decided on the WOC package. Being bed bound for the last 3 days is giving me too much time to question and change my mind. If we go to WOC, it will be on the Sunday. It is part of the Gay Day schedule to attend WOC on the same day, so I feel like the dining package is almost a must to avoid fighting for a good spot. But none of the 3 dining options are particularly jumping out at me. I had thought Ariels for the menu, but the feedback hasn't been that great.
The other option is to stay in Disneyland and catch both Fantasmic and the Fireworks. In some ways I think this would be the better option for my MIL who hasn't been to any Disney park ever. But for myself, I would prefer WOC because it's unlike any Disney experience I've had. I don't bother asking DH as he'll say he doesn't care. And as for DS, he'd probably prefer we made the most of everyone being at shows and go on quieter rides. So I'm a bit torn. At the end of the day, any option is going to be good because we're on holiday, but I guess it's just part of my personality to overthink things

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Some of those are table service places. I've usually just walked out and figured out how long the wait is before deciding to stay or go somewhere else. The thing to remember is that there is ALWAYS DTD or any of the places outside on South Harbour and/or Katella.

Too true.

I really wish we had time to go eat at Gardenwalk. Those restaurants appeal to me more than most of the ones in DLR.

 

[zanzibar138]

You could be right.

I must admit, eating at Flo's does definitely appeal as my DS loves Cars. And while I'm not familiar with Hungry Bears, I'm going to check it out.

I still haven't fully decided on the WOC package. Being bed bound for the last 3 days is giving me too much time to question and change my mind. If we go to WOC, it will be on the Sunday. It is part of the Gay Day schedule to attend WOC on the same day, so I feel like the dining package is almost a must to avoid fighting for a good spot. But none of the 3 dining options are particularly jumping out at me. I had thought Ariels for the menu, but the feedback hasn't been that great.
The other option is to stay in Disneyland and catch both Fantasmic and the Fireworks. In some ways I think this would be the better option for my MIL who hasn't been to any Disney park ever. But for myself, I would prefer WOC because it's unlike any Disney experience I've had. I don't bother asking DH as he'll say he doesn't care. And as for DS, he'd probably prefer we made the most of everyone being at shows and go on quieter rides. So I'm a bit torn. At the end of the day, any option is going to be good because we're on holiday, but I guess it's just part of my personality to overthink things

FWIW, the dining option doesn't guarantee you a good spot. There will still be some fighting necessary If you want to be at the front of the VIP section, you'll still have to start lining up an hour early. For DH and I, it was ok getting there 20-30 minutes early and getting towards the front of one of the levels (so we could see over the people in front of us), but they may not work for your son. The general consensus on the DLR boards is that the dining package is not worth it just for WOC access, only if you were planning to eat at that restaurant anyway, so you may find that it won't work out how you want it to anyway.

I've heard that they are now allowing people to watch from Paradise Pier. That could be an option to consider if it's true (they used to shut this part of the park down), as you'd still get to see all the effects - the projections would just be in reverse.

F! is a wonderful show at DL, seems much better than its WDW version. However, it wouldn't really help you avoid crowds. Unless you're thinking of doing the dessert package on this night. But even then, you still have to line up to get your good seats. Without the dessert package (and assuming that the schedule works out), I would watch the fireworks from Main Street, then leisurely wander over to the F! area while the first show is on. When all the people leave, go in and take a good spot (this will be a little chaotic). It's what we did and we ended up in the second row in the seated area (not great for photos with that fence in the way, but it was a good view of the show).

I would just go to whichever show you prefer (WOC it seems), and read up on the superthread (over on the DLR boards) to work out your strategy. On the plus side, if you don't book the meal package, you can always change your mind on the day

 

[Chuckers]

Cafe Orleans has the same Monte Cristo sandwich as Blue Bayou for much less and it's an AWESOME sandwich (and the fries are great, too). You may want to make a reservation for this place as it does reach capacity often.

Quick Service:

Bengal BBQ opposite the Indiana Jones ride in Adventureland has great 'meat on a stick'.. and bacon wrapped asparagus if you like that.

Red Rocket Pizza Port in Tomorrowland has very good chicken fusilli alfredo

 

[WanderlustNZ]

FWIW, the dining option doesn't guarantee you a good spot. There will still be some fighting necessary If you want to be at the front of the VIP section, you'll still have to start lining up an hour early. For DH and I, it was ok getting there 20-30 minutes early and getting towards the front of one of the levels (so we could see over the people in front of us), but they may not work for your son. The general consensus on the DLR boards is that the dining package is not worth it just for WOC access, only if you were planning to eat at that restaurant anyway, so you may find that it won't work out how you want it to anyway. I've heard that they are now allowing people to watch from Paradise Pier. That could be an option to consider if it's true (they used to shut this part of the park down), as you'd still get to see all the effects - the projections would just be in reverse. F! is a wonderful show at DL, seems much better than its WDW version. However, it wouldn't really help you avoid crowds. Unless you're thinking of doing the dessert package on this night. But even then, you still have to line up to get your good seats. Without the dessert package (and assuming that the schedule works out), I would watch the fireworks from Main Street, then leisurely wander over to the F! area while the first show is on. When all the people leave, go in and take a good spot (this will be a little chaotic). It's what we did and we ended up in the second row in the seated area (not great for photos with that fence in the way, but it was a good view of the show). I would just go to whichever show you prefer (WOC it seems), and read up on the superthread (over on the DLR boards) to work out your strategy. On the plus side, if you don't book the meal package, you can always change your mind on the day

I must admit that the thought of queuing for ages for something I've paid extra money for does irritate me. I'm even starting to think that maybe we should grab Fastpasses for WOC in the morning and then just see how we all feel in the evening. By then we may be all so tired that we don't actually care what we see.

At least I've got at a month or so to decide.

 

[WanderlustNZ]

Cafe Orleans has the same Monte Cristo sandwich as Blue Bayou for much less and it's an AWESOME sandwich (and the fries are great, too). You may want to make a reservation for this place as it does reach capacity often. Quick Service: Bengal BBQ opposite the Indiana Jones ride in Adventureland has great 'meat on a stick'.. and bacon wrapped asparagus if you like that. Red Rocket Pizza Port in Tomorrowland has very good chicken fusilli alfredo

Thank you. I keep looking at Cafe Orleans because the menu does appeal to me.

I must admit though, that sandwich looks kind of scary. It must be good since everyone raves about it, but deep-frying a sandwich just seems a bit strange.

 

[BecBennett]

I agree! Plus adding powdered sugar to a savory sandwich? Crazy! However I've tried it, and it is amazing. However if you do attempt it definitely share it, I made it through 1/4 and a bite of the second 1/4. That's all I could manage.

 

[zanzibar138]

I must admit though, that sandwich looks kind of scary. It must be good since everyone raves about it, but deep-frying a sandwich just seems a bit strange.

I was telling DH about this sandwich the other night, and telling him how everyone raves about it. He was interested to hear whether any fellow Aussies/Kiwis rave about it, or whether it's just people in the US? Off the top of my head, I didn't think I'd ever heard an Aussie/Kiwi review of it. Maybe it's more to their tastes than ours, because it's just doesn't sound appetizing to me! It's the dusting of sugar that really gets me. Sugar on a deep-fried meat and cheese sandwich

Fellow Aussies/Kiwis, if you've tried this sandwich I'd be interested to hear your opinions! (Sorry for hijacking your thread Wanderlust!).

 

[zanzibar138]

I agree! Plus adding powdered sugar to a savory sandwich? Crazy! However I've tried it, and it is amazing. However if you do attempt it definitely share it, I made it through 1/4 and a bite of the second 1/4. That's all I could manage.

Looks like Bec beat me to the post!

Thanks for the insight Bec. It must be really rich, I think I could only eat 1/4 too!

 

[ssour]

We loved our WOC lunch at Carthay Circle, was better than Blue Bayou in my opinion and a beautiful restaurant.

My favourite table-service is actually Storytellers Cafe at Grand Californian. It's a great medium between value and quality.

I found Plaza Inn to be pretty stressful but I was collecting food for three of us while DH looked after DS. The different ordering stations meant lining up twice and there's almost no room to move in there.

I don't love Disneyland dining, nothing stands out as spectacular in my mind and there's nothing I have on a must do list for each visit like I do for WDW. Storytellers is really the only one I've been to multiple times. I'd like to try Big Thunder Ranch BBQ, I got rained out last time I had a reservation.

 

[PrincessInOz]

Thank you. I keep looking at Cafe Orleans because the menu does appeal to me.

I must admit though, that sandwich looks kind of scary. It must be good since everyone raves about it, but deep-frying a sandwich just seems a bit strange.

I've had the Monte Cristo twice. The first time, I thought it was me. Everyone raved about it and I just didn't get it at all.

The second time was last September. I ended up sharing the traditional Monte Cristo and a Cheese Cristo with DS, another Dis-ser and myself. We ended up with a LOT of cristo to takeaway. And I definitely confirmed it. It isn't me. It definitely is too rich for my tastes....between the deep fried bread and the sugar dusting, I can about manage one of the quarters. That's about it for me.

 

[Royal Consort]

I've had the Monte Cristo twice. The first time, I thought it was me. Everyone raved about it and I just didn't get it at all.

The second time was last September. I ended up sharing the traditional Monte Cristo and a Cheese Cristo with DS, another Dis-ser and myself. We ended up with a LOT of cristo to takeaway. And I definitely confirmed it. It isn't me. It definitely is too rich for my tastes....between the deep fried bread and the sugar dusting, I can about manage one of the quarters. That's about it for me.

Seconded. Hated the thing. Everyone went on about how it's so fabulous and a MUST HAVE. Disgusting. My other half thought the same thing. Too doughy and rich and just all round uck. Never again.

 

[TulipsNZ]

Finding this very interesting, I had hoped a WOC dining experience would get us a good spot. I have Fibromyalgia and am wondering how I'm going to cope with all the walking so had hoped we could get a sit down spot rather than fighting for a standing spot. I think for this reason we will book the Fantasmic dessert or I can see all the standing leading to a miserable next day. I don't care where we sit as long as we sit.