Monorail Loop Bar Crawl!

[FutureDisneyEventPlanner]

Hi all,

Thinking about trying the monorail loop bar crawl! Anyone have recommendations of specific drinks or why I should pick one bar vs. another (i.e. Tambu vs. Trader Sam's)?

 

[TeresaWen]

We start at Tambu lounge in the poly for two reasons - easer to get a spot at the bar earlier and they have a great selection of snacks on the lounge menu. Next up is Mizner's in the grand Floridian. We love their margaritas. Not a fan of their lounge food menu. Then we end at the wave for grilled chicken sandwiches and wine at the bar or the California Grill lounge. Or both.

Warning - do not start at the wilderness lodge's geyser point. It is just so lovely and relaxing you will never leave.

I am alone in this - I do not like Trader Sam's. It is not a full bar. Only cocktails are the ones on the menu. Small bear selection. Not sure about wine.

 

[crabbygal902]

We are older adults, late 40's
Wine and beer drinkers, but a cocktail is a welcome diversion
We love good food and a pleasant, somewhat quiet atmosphere
Our 12 year old is often along for the ride and has a great time, too. He loves the kid's specialty drinks, especially at the Tiki Terrace.

Here's my recommendations:

Start at California Grill's Bar/Lounge early as possible. Depending on the time of year, you may get to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Have a chilled glass or two of my favorite Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc with the bread basket and goat cheese ravioli app. It is the perfect way to cool-off after a warm day in the parks.

Option 1, a little off course but well worth the diversion:
Boat over to Wilderness Lodge for a very quiet drink at Territory Lounge, one of my favorite spots on property. If you are a fan of Pacific Northwest wines and/or beers and aren't fond of crowds, this is a must-do. The famous Artist Point mushroom soup is usually on the menu and I noticed that there is a wine and cheese fondue dish on the menu I'd like to try. After TL, hop on a boat to the MK and then transfer to a boat to the Poly.

Option 2: stay with monorail resorts only:
Monorail over to the Poly and get a seat outdoors at the Tiki Terrace. We much prefer this over Trader Sam's, which is too crowded and noisy for my tastes. Listen to live music, have a beautiful view or the waterfall and maybe even the Castle. Sip on a rum flight or a Dark & Stormy and eat some delicious dumplings or pork tacos. Hop on the monorail afterwards and go over to the Grand Floridian.

At the Grand Floridian, get a drink at Narcoossee's bar and take it out on the deck if it is time for MK fireworks. My favorite drink here is the Grand Martini. The splash of champagne on top makes it extra special. Another great option at the GF is getting a drink at Mizner's and listening to the band that plays in the lobby. Hop on the monorail, and go back to the Contemporary.

Depending on timing you may make it back to the Contemporary to see the MK fireworks from the viewing area, which is simply stunning. Show your receipt at the reception desk and you'll be allowed to go up as long as there's room. Stop by the bar and ask Ray (the best bartender in all of WDW) for a glass of prosecco to take outside, which is my favorite way to enjoy the fireworks.

What a LOVELY evening.

 

[crabbygal902]

I am alone in this - I do not like Trader Sam's. It is not a full bar. Only cocktails are the ones on the menu. Small bear selection. Not sure about wine.

You are NOT alone! I really dislike Trader Sam's and am not sure what all the hype is about. The drinks are horrendously expensive as well.

Warning - do not start at the wilderness lodge's geyser point. It is just so lovely and relaxing you will never leave.

Good to know! We will give it a try, as much as we love Territory Lounge.

 

[JerseyJanice]

@crabbygal902 I wonder if the “Ray” at the California Grill now is the same “Ray” who served us at the Outer Rim lounge in 2009, 2010, and 2012.

Maybe he moved to CG after its big renovation?

My Ray remembered us each year—or put on a great act that he did. He does magic tricks and puzzles. He was lots of fun, and his mixology skills were amazing.

Anyway, OP, if it’s not the same Ray in both Contemporary Resort bars, I suggest including the Outer Rim and mainly because Ray is so awesome.

 

[crabbygal902]

@crabbygal902 I wonder if the “Ray” at the California Grill now is the same “Ray” who served us at the Outer Rim lounge in 2009, 2010, and 2012.

Maybe he moved to CG after its big renovation?

My Ray remembered us each year—or put on a great act that he did. He does magic tricks and puzzles. He was lots of fun, and his mixology skills were amazing.

Anyway, OP, if it’s not the same Ray in both Contemporary Resort bars, I suggest including the Outer Rim and mainly because Ray is so awesome.

Is this the Ray from the Outer Rim? I got a pic with this Ray in May at California Grill What a great guy!

 

[rentayenta]

We are older adults, late 40's
Wine and beer drinkers, but a cocktail is a welcome diversion
We love good food and a pleasant, somewhat quiet atmosphere
Our 12 year old is often along for the ride and has a great time, too. He loves the kid's specialty drinks, especially at the Tiki Terrace.

Here's my recommendations:

Start at California Grill's Bar/Lounge early as possible. Depending on the time of year, you may get to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Have a chilled glass or two of my favorite Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc with the bread basket and goat cheese ravioli app. It is the perfect way to cool-off after a warm day in the parks.

Option 1, a little off course but well worth the diversion:
Boat over to Wilderness Lodge for a very quiet drink at Territory Lounge, one of my favorite spots on property. If you are a fan of Pacific Northwest wines and/or beers and aren't fond of crowds, this is a must-do. The famous Artist Point mushroom soup is usually on the menu and I noticed that there is a wine and cheese fondue dish on the menu I'd like to try. After TL, hop on a boat to the MK and then transfer to a boat to the Poly.

Option 2: stay with monorail resorts only:
Monorail over to the Poly and get a seat outdoors at the Tiki Terrace. We much prefer this over Trader Sam's, which is too crowded and noisy for my tastes. Listen to live music, have a beautiful view or the waterfall and maybe even the Castle. Sip on a rum flight or a Dark & Stormy and eat some delicious dumplings or pork tacos. Hop on the monorail afterwards and go over to the Grand Floridian.

At the Grand Floridian, get a drink at Narcoossee's bar and take it out on the deck if it is time for MK fireworks. My favorite drink here is the Grand Martini. The splash of champagne on top makes it extra special. Another great option at the GF is getting a drink at Mizner's and listening to the band that plays in the lobby. Hop on the monorail, and go back to the Contemporary.

Depending on timing you may make it back to the Contemporary to see the MK fireworks from the viewing area, which is simply stunning. Show your receipt at the reception desk and you'll be allowed to go up as long as there's room. Stop by the bar and ask Ray (the best bartender in all of WDW) for a glass of prosecco to take outside, which is my favorite way to enjoy the fireworks.

What a LOVELY evening.

This sounds wonderful!

 

[sjrec]

We are older adults, late 40's
Wine and beer drinkers, but a cocktail is a welcome diversion
We love good food and a pleasant, somewhat quiet atmosphere
Our 12 year old is often along for the ride and has a great time, too. He loves the kid's specialty drinks, especially at the Tiki Terrace.

Here's my recommendations:

Start at California Grill's Bar/Lounge early as possible. Depending on the time of year, you may get to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Have a chilled glass or two of my favorite Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc with the bread basket and goat cheese ravioli app. It is the perfect way to cool-off after a warm day in the parks.

Option 1, a little off course but well worth the diversion:
Boat over to Wilderness Lodge for a very quiet drink at Territory Lounge, one of my favorite spots on property. If you are a fan of Pacific Northwest wines and/or beers and aren't fond of crowds, this is a must-do. The famous Artist Point mushroom soup is usually on the menu and I noticed that there is a wine and cheese fondue dish on the menu I'd like to try. After TL, hop on a boat to the MK and then transfer to a boat to the Poly.

Option 2: stay with monorail resorts only:
Monorail over to the Poly and get a seat outdoors at the Tiki Terrace. We much prefer this over Trader Sam's, which is too crowded and noisy for my tastes. Listen to live music, have a beautiful view or the waterfall and maybe even the Castle. Sip on a rum flight or a Dark & Stormy and eat some delicious dumplings or pork tacos. Hop on the monorail afterwards and go over to the Grand Floridian.

At the Grand Floridian, get a drink at Narcoossee's bar and take it out on the deck if it is time for MK fireworks. My favorite drink here is the Grand Martini. The splash of champagne on top makes it extra special. Another great option at the GF is getting a drink at Mizner's and listening to the band that plays in the lobby. Hop on the monorail, and go back to the Contemporary.

Depending on timing you may make it back to the Contemporary to see the MK fireworks from the viewing area, which is simply stunning. Show your receipt at the reception desk and you'll be allowed to go up as long as there's room. Stop by the bar and ask Ray (the best bartender in all of WDW) for a glass of prosecco to take outside, which is my favorite way to enjoy the fireworks.

What a LOVELY evening.

Crabbygal, you just described my idea of a perfect evening! I have made note of your suggestions and first on my list is that Grand Martini!

 

[JerseyJanice]

Is this the Ray from the Outer Rim? I got a pic with this Ray in May at California Grill What a great guy!

No, that is not the Outer Rim Ray. He has a darker complex, and I think he is of Filipino or other Pacific Island descent. If I can tear my sister-in-law away from the rides in May, I’ll get over there and take a photo. She likes to drink almost as much as she likes rides. LOL!

 

[TeresaWen]

We are older adults, late 40's
Wine and beer drinkers, but a cocktail is a welcome diversion
We love good food and a pleasant, somewhat quiet atmosphere
Our 12 year old is often along for the ride and has a great time, too. He loves the kid's specialty drinks, especially at the Tiki Terrace.

Here's my recommendations:

Start at California Grill's Bar/Lounge early as possible. Depending on the time of year, you may get to enjoy a beautiful sunset. Have a chilled glass or two of my favorite Kim Crawford Spitfire Sauvignon Blanc with the bread basket and goat cheese ravioli app. It is the perfect way to cool-off after a warm day in the parks.

Option 1, a little off course but well worth the diversion:
Boat over to Wilderness Lodge for a very quiet drink at Territory Lounge, one of my favorite spots on property. If you are a fan of Pacific Northwest wines and/or beers and aren't fond of crowds, this is a must-do. The famous Artist Point mushroom soup is usually on the menu and I noticed that there is a wine and cheese fondue dish on the menu I'd like to try. After TL, hop on a boat to the MK and then transfer to a boat to the Poly.

Option 2: stay with monorail resorts only:
Monorail over to the Poly and get a seat outdoors at the Tiki Terrace. We much prefer this over Trader Sam's, which is too crowded and noisy for my tastes. Listen to live music, have a beautiful view or the waterfall and maybe even the Castle. Sip on a rum flight or a Dark & Stormy and eat some delicious dumplings or pork tacos. Hop on the monorail afterwards and go over to the Grand Floridian.

At the Grand Floridian, get a drink at Narcoossee's bar and take it out on the deck if it is time for MK fireworks. My favorite drink here is the Grand Martini. The splash of champagne on top makes it extra special. Another great option at the GF is getting a drink at Mizner's and listening to the band that plays in the lobby. Hop on the monorail, and go back to the Contemporary.

Depending on timing you may make it back to the Contemporary to see the MK fireworks from the viewing area, which is simply stunning. Show your receipt at the reception desk and you'll be allowed to go up as long as there's room. Stop by the bar and ask Ray (the best bartender in all of WDW) for a glass of prosecco to take outside, which is my favorite way to enjoy the fireworks.

What a LOVELY evening.

This is a great plan but California Grill is another place I can't start my monorail loop. Every time we start there we end up with a window table and we have dinner in the lounge. There are just so many wines by the glass! If we do this we have a few apps / sushi, split an entrée, and end with crème brule.

But this plan looks so awesome I think we will try it in October. How early does the lounge in the California Grill open? Hoping by 4:30?

 

[crabbygal902]

This is a great plan but California Grill is another place I can't start my monorail loop. Every time we start there we end up with a window table and we have dinner in the lounge. There are just so many wines by the glass! If we do this we have a few apps / sushi, split an entrée, and end with crème brule.

But this plan looks so awesome I think we will try it in October. How early does the lounge in the California Grill open? Hoping by 4:30?

I think they usually open at 5

 

[FutureDisneyEventPlanner]

love all these ideas! i had a reservation at The Wave but i may just cancel that and snack at all the lounges/bars...

 

[DSLRuser]

Have not done a "bar crawl" in years....but Wilderness Lodge's Geyser Point and Grand Floridian Meisner's Lounge are 2 of our favorite places to knock back a few drinks.

 

[Nermel9]

This is a great plan but California Grill is another place I can't start my monorail loop. Every time we start there we end up with a window table and we have dinner in the lounge. There are just so many wines by the glass! If we do this we have a few apps / sushi, split an entrée, and end with crème brule.

But this plan looks so awesome I think we will try it in October. How early does the lounge in the California Grill open? Hoping by 4:30?

You can go to California Grill and just go to the bar, without a reservation?? And they just let you? What part of it is considered the lounge? This is so great, I never knew I could go up there just for a drink

 

[MakiraMarlena]

Tambu is more laid back and a full bar.

Trader Sam's is a dedicated tiki bar. It doesn't pretend to be anything else.

You can go to California Grill and just go to the bar, without a reservation??

Yes.

And they just let you?

They will, unless it is full.

What part of it is considered the lounge?

The bar, and the small waiting area with tables in front of the bar. Not just drinks either. They allow ordering from the full restaurant menu.

Also at Contemporary I would pick the bar at the Wave over Outer Rim. And I like Territory Lounge better than I like Geyser Point.

 

[FutureDisneyEventPlanner]

So this is my plan thus far...

The Wave Lounge - for apps and drinks

Tambu Lounge - for apps and drinks; I may or may not peek into Trader Sam's and just see how it is...

Mizner’s Lounge - for dessert and a night cap!

Is there anything I'm missing that I MUST try?!

 

[Cloe Colton]

What time are most of the bar/lounge areas open until?

 

[wisteria1019]

I'm in! I am doing my first solo trip in October and this is a perfect plan to try out several venues without having to commit to a Table Service evening. Thank you.

 

[crabbygal902]

So this is my plan thus far...

The Wave Lounge - for apps and drinks

Tambu Lounge - for apps and drinks; I may or may not peek into Trader Sam's and just see how it is...

Mizner’s Lounge - for dessert and a night cap!

Is there anything I'm missing that I MUST try?!

Looks like a great plan! I would be happy to join you

 

[JennyMP03]

I had an evening planned for this and it got thwarted by husband wanting an Ohana reservation/me wanting to go to MK EMH afterward since it's conveniently located near the Polynesian. I get full quickly (and alcohol will kill my appetite entirely), so our 3:30 meal at Ohana will leave me unable to consume anything afterward. :-/

All I want is to be a gluttonous lush on the monorail loop! I may have to plan a separate evening for Mizner's/California Grill/Trader Sam's. It sounds so fantastic.