We traveled as a large group, 8 adults and 4 kids (Grandparents, their kids, spouses and grandchildren), and ate at Ohana, California Grill and Boatwright's together. We were at the World for a week and agreed to eat dinner together every other day. On the "off" days, Grandma and Grandpa had dinner with various families and the rest of us were on our own schedule. The theory was that people wouldn't feel over-scheduled.
We all loved Ohana the best. The kids were happy, the adults were happy, the food was good. Because it's served family style, it was easy because we didn't need to order (except that you can order kids' meals). We sat in the back room, so it wasn't as crazy, and we asked the waiter to let us know when the games were starting so the kids could run to the front room and participate in the coconut race and sing along.
California Grill was a bit challenging because we had some young kids with us and we had a 45 minute wait eventhough we had ressies. The food is fabulous and everyone liked the food, but the toddlers (DNiece2 and DNephew4) couldn't take the length of the dinner which stressed DGma out tremendously because they were not happy. The kids did get to see Wishes from the rooftop and that was a nice diversion. All in all, it was easily a three hour experience from getting off the elevator in the restaurant to paying the bill. DH and I much enjoyed the bar while we waited! The funniest part of the evening, which is still mentioned to this day, was when DNephew4 was asked what he wanted to drink and said, "I'll have a beer." and DNiece2 piped up, "Me, too!".
We also ate at Boatwright's, which I wouldn't recommend because the food isn't that great. We actually had 10 adults and 4 kids that day because my aunt and uncle joined us. It was quieter and we were able to switch tables to chat in between food being served.
I've also eaten at Artist's Point with 8 adults and had a really fun time. The restaurant is more subdued, you can have a conversation with the entire table easily. I've read that kids really like the white chocolate puzzle for dessert. If I had to choose between Boatwright's and Artist's Point, I'd definitely choose AP.
I am the planner in the group. I have 10 adults 3 kids and a baby in my group. We come from different locations and this will be the first time in over a year we are altogether. Since we are going to be heading in different directions most of the time other then breakfast, my father would to do something with the family dinner wise on our last night which will be a tuesday night. I have thought of the Whispering Cafe dinner and then watching the fireworks and water pagent from the beach. Also the Fantasmic dinner package. Can anyone come up with other things. I think it would be nice to have a semi-quite place to talk and say goodbye.
