New Disney Restaurants - a few questions

[mom2threets]

We were in Disney in 2006. What new restaurants have opened since then that are worth visiting?

We may go this summer with our 3 children (11 boy, 9boy, 4 girl) so we want to go to character dinners and breakfasts. We also want some non-character dinners. Which new restaurants are worth checking out?

We want to go to the Hoop-de-Doo (did that the first time we went in '03).
We love Chef Mickey's and will do that again.
We also loved the Coral Reef but not sure if we want that again.
We might want to try the Sci-Fi as well.
We also like Crystal Palace

My DD is 4 so I want to give her a Princess experience - not sure about the Castle or the other choices???

What other new (and not so new) restaurants are worth it?

Please give me suggestions - what did you like on your last trip?

 

[khiguchi]

So glad you are asking about dining now! I work at the reservation center from time to time and we love getting calls from people that have done some prior planning!

Anywho, based on your group, I'd second the idea of returning to Chef Mickey's...when in the summer are you planning on visiting? The reason I ask is that we are booking til 6/19 for that location, as well as Cinderella's Royal Table (CRT), all others are 90 (or 90+ if you're staying on property) out, just FYI, as you probably know.

For the princess experience, CRT really is the big one, and honestly, I have never experienced it, though I'm sure others can offer insight on that location =) However, if it's not available, I highly recommend Princess Storybook Dining @ Norway (Restaurant Akershus) for a breakfast. Of course, lunch and dinner are also served in this location, but there's just something about being able to enter the park early that just adds a touch of magic, IMHO.

As far as new restaurants since '06 that I can think of off the top of my head:
1. Tutto Italia, Epcot (formerly Alfredo's)
Haven't eaten here, actually never had the Alfredo's either, but it's booked pretty solid for dinners, so if you like more 'authentic' style Italian food, this could be a good experience.
2. Teppan Edo/Tokyo Dining, Epcot (formerly Teppanyaki/Matsunoma Lounge)
Very popular locations, of course TE is a hibachi-style, "cooked in front of you" experience that is similar to Benihana...so, if you like that kind of thing, it's a great choice, with EXCELLENT service. Also, TD is one of my faves, and though the main attractions are tempura and sushi, grilled steaks and chicken are also offered, as well as a kids menu...also, if you book a late dinner at TD, you can see Epcot's Illuminations show from the beautiful picture window.
3. Yak & Yeti Restaurants, Disney's Animal Kingdom
Y&Y has both a quick serve and full-serve option. I've only had the quick, and it was quite good. My sister tried the full, and said that the Pan-Asian menu was great, and she enjoyed the experience, but personally thought it was a little overpriced. This restaurant is run by the same folks as Rainforest Cafe.
4. T-Rex Cafe, Downtown Disney
Best synopsis is: if you like Rainforest, and you like dinosaurs, your group will love it! Not included on the dining plan, if that's a consideration.
5. Portobello, Downtown Disney (formerly Portobello Yacht Club)
Heard great things about this place before, and even more so since its recent refurb. Also not on dining plan

 

[ROEDISNEY]

50's Prime Time is good food & fun
WCC " " "

 

[mom2threets]

Thanks.

We haven't booked our trip yet but are thinking of arriving Aug. 2 or 3.

So - I can make the CM ADR before 90 days????

I think we are going to skip the castle and do the Akerhaus breakfast, but the castle is also booking before 90 days?

If I arrive on Aug 2 what is the earliest I can book CM and the castle?

 

[catne]

The Wave at the Contemporary hotel is new (2008) and very good...it's on the dining plan if you're doing that.

 

[Hoosier Mom]

I second the suggestion for the 50's Primetime. Great food and fun.

Also suggest LeCellier.

Also the fish & chips & apple crumble at Rose & Crown are delicious. I think you can time this dinner reservation with Illuminations too.

 

[ksmommyof4]

I would suggest Crystal Palace with Pooh & friends.We didnt care for 50s Primetime Cafe....