Need Help from Disney Foodies or Chefs/CM

[gwensgoofy]

I've put this on the restaurant board as well. We have a family joining us for a trip to the World 2/10-2/15. It has been a long, difficult year for them and I'm trying to set up an experience for their 12 year old son. He loves cooking, and has abilities that are above mine. He gets a little grief, as you can imagine, from the other 12 year old boys because this is his hobby/passion. I'd love to somehow get him a tour of a kitchen, let him watch the chefs do prep-anything- because I know it would knock his socks off. The only thing I can find involves the Grand Floridian cooking experience, which is way below is abilities/interests. He's not interested as much in a food tour, but rather, a cooking or kitchen tour. He's a great kid,and its hard to find something- for his age group, that will wow him. Has anyone with DVC heard or done anything like this, or have an avenue I can pursue? We're staying at BLT, but I will take him to any of the restaurants. As often as DVC members are at the World, I figure someone here can at least point me in the right direction.

 

[dizfan]

Hopefully someone more knowledgeable comes along.

One thing I've heard of (but have not done) is the Culinary Tour at Boma and Jiko (which are located at Animal Kingdom Lodge).
http://www.disneyfoodblog.com/2009/05/27/culinary-tour-boma-and-jiko/

 

[dallastxcpa]

If money is not an issue why not take him to the Chef's table at Victoria and Alberts.

 

[gwensgoofy]

I wish money wasn't an object - but at 133 per person, he'll have to wait a little. We've got reservations with his parents to go to V and A one night, but the boys will, sadly, be dining on pizza, or whatever quick service they want that night! Please keep coming with the idea - I know someone from DVC will think of something!

 

[hakepb]

Have you checked out Teppan Edo? (EPCOT/Japan) http://www.wdwinfo.com/wdwinfo/dining/diningdetail.cfm?Restaurant.ID=95

Chefs at the table chopping and cooking, reviews mention some are more entertaining than others, but usually kids seem to enjoy it...

The "Behind the Seeds" tour at EPCOT Land might have some cullinary interest, but I've never done it..

I'm guessing that the former Spoodles (Kouziana?) may still have a somewhat open kitchen, too...

I've never been to Ohana later than breakfast, but there appears to be an open grill area...

 

[bwvBound]

If nothing else, you could book a meal at Jiko's asking for a seat at the counter rather than the table? The counter (forgot its special name?) gives a great view of chef activity throughout the meal.

 

[DVCconvert]

FF also has a demostration kitchen with bar type seating.

 

[gwensgoofy]

Everyone has posted great ideas. What I'm trying to find is something with a little one on one time, if possible. I'd love to see a professional encourage him with what he's trying to do. I know this is a true long shot, but I thought I could at least look. I figure with the phenomenal customer service I've seen at disney, maybe this would fit into some chef's program. Keep the ideas coming, and pass this along if you know any of the chefs at Disney!

 

[hakepb]

I'm guessing the ideal time is now (F&W with some cooking demonstrations)

I would think that health department regulations would prevent, or make it really, really difficult for a chef to invite anyone back into the kitchen, that's why I think the open kitchen areas may be the best bet...
It does have to be possible to get some special attention in an allowed area if you are nice enough to enough CM's (Always be friendly and keep asking, even non-food CM's you never know when you might be talking to someone with connections), you might want to avoid the most busy dining periods, though..

 

[decarop]

Most chefs are very happy to "show off" their talents and may be willing to entertain the young prodigy in an off time at a restaurant.
If I may suggest - just contact some of the restaurant chefs directly if possible and ask.
You may be able to sway a chef to accomodate his interest at the Blue Zoo or Kat Kora's new place on the boardwalk. The Il Molino is a very good restaurant and might be convincable?

I cheffed for years in my own business and working for others and was always happy to permit a budding young artist a look see at the pace which must be held in a functioning kitchen. Just so long at it wasn't peak time.

Good luck in your effort and also to the budding young chef.