How early to arrive at V & A's?

[bearpaw]

We just got back from a week at DisneyWorld and our first visit to Victoria and Albert's. Wow - it was everything you've all been saying it would be! The food was the best I have ever eaten anywhere. Each bite was a new experience.

We had a reservation at 6:15 and got to the Grand Floridian about 5:45. I thought that would be too early to arrive, so we walked around the resort and gifts shops for a awhile. We walked into the restaurant at 6:05 and I was still thinking I would be embarassed because we were so early. Well, almost all the tables were full and we were about the last ones to be seated.

My question is this - do they have staggered start times for each table, or is it just common for everyone to arrive very early?

Also, I never saw where the famous Chef's Table is. Is it off the main dining room or by the fireplace room?

Gee, I guess we'll have to go back again once we get this all figured out!

 

[JERSEYDISFAN]

Their reservations are timed to insure a smooth flow of arrivals and service. The Chef's Table is located in the kitchen so you have the opportunity to visit with (and get some very personal attention from) the chefs and watch all of the magic that goes into the preparation of those incredible courses. Nice thing is that you get to sample almost all of them. Just be aware when ordering the wine flight. They pour very generously and you can walk (make that wobble) out with a pretty good buzz on.

 

[wildernesslodgelover]

I just made my first ever V&A's ADR for our upcoming anniversary trip in May. I remember the CM gave me a choice of times for the early seating...I *think* I remember she gave me 5:45, 6 pm and 6:15 as some choices. So, yes, they do stagger the times so that everyone is not seated at once and the servers do not get "in the weeds" as they say in the industry. You probably could have been seated earlier, and I am sure they would hold your ADR for at least 15 min if you are running late.

Hope you enjoyed your dinner! I can't wait til may!!!!