Post Half-Marathon Meal: Tony's or Mama Melrose

[stargazertechie]

I've got an ADR booked for Tony's for after the 1/2 marathon. I really think it would be nice to wander MK for awhile before heading back to our resort to relax, stretch, and recoup before the marathon on Sunday.

We missed our ADR at Mama Melrose last time, so we've never been to EITHER place. We definitely want Italian, and with it being a 10 day trip I don't necessarily mind going to another park for my post-race carb reload.

If you were running 39.3 miles in a weekend, what would you choose? Mama Melrose or Tony's?

 

[laughinplace199]

I haven't eaten at MM, but I've eaten at Tony's twice and it was not good at all.

I voted "other" because many restaurants will have a marathon special on their menus for the evenings before the half and the full. We had an amazing pasta and chicken dish at Olivia's last year. It was tasty without being too heavy - absolutely pefect for a pre-race dinner.

 

[Sweet Melissa]

If you're set on Italian, I'd recommend Il Mulino in the Swan or Portobello at Downtown Disney.

 

[gillep]

Were you going to finish the race then go directly to the restaurant before going back to your hotel? If so then I know it seems convenient to just finish the race then eat but you will probably want a shower and some time to veg. Also you never know with the weather, last year it was freezing for the half and the full I know that all we wanted to do was get in the shower and warm up, and I have heard that in previous years it was very warm and showers were necessary. It may be more relaxing to go back to the room first (If this wasn't your plan I couldn't tell from the post) and maybe eat at the resort or go out for park time and and early dinner then retire early. Also I have heard that Il Mulino at the Swan/Dolphin has the best italian food on property so you may consider this (this is where DH and I have a reservation for the night before the marathon)

And Good luck in the half and full marathons

 

[Shleedogg]

Out of the 2, I'd say MM. We've eaten at both and thought Tony's was horrible. I got the veggie lasagna and had no flavor and completely mushy, indiscernible veggies. My DH got chicken parm which was overcooked. They do not make pasta or their chicken parm to order. They were out literally less than 5 min after we ordered. Their garlic rolls are really good although I wouldn't do a whole dinner there just for those.

We've eaten at MM 4 times and have enjoyed it. Is it real, authentic Italian? No. It's Italian-American and it's pretty good. Most important to me? It's all cooked to order in an open kitchen so you know it's not sitting around under heat lamps.

DH and I feel the same about Tony's as we do about Tutto. Also not made to order. Service there was also not very good. Only 2 people, didn't order alcoholic beverages or apps or expensive entrees.

Have read good things about the food at Il Mulino at the Swan.

Out of the Italian options at WDW, I'd go with Mama Melrose or Il Mulino. Imo, definitely steer clear of Tony's or Tutto.

Honestly though, I'd go to a buffet. After DH did the marathon in 09 we went to 1900 PF so he could stuff himself. I wouldn't recommend 1900 PF, but I would recommend a buffet. Maybe Boma? I've heard great things. We enjoyed CM dinner even though I know it gets bad reviews here. Crystal Palace always gets really good reviews for all meals.

Good luck!!

 

[asdfghjkl13]

I like Tony's and Mama Melrose, but the food is a little better at MM. The service at both isnt that good though.

 

[disneyrunningnut]

I am going to throw a curve ball at you. I don't like to carb load / reload on pasta. I makes me feel bloated and sometimes causes GI issues. For years I have been eating Sushi the night before a race. It is perfect, lots of white rice for the carbs, protein in the fish, and very mild on the stomach.

So I would recommend, Tokyo Dining at Epcot or Kimonos at the Swan.

Good Luck in your race!!