Surprise - you can eat! Dining suggestions?

[Travis B]

This is a bit random, weird, and kind of a long story, but I need a little help. We will be at DLR/Anaheim for six days, beginning Saturday 5/7. I have been dealing with a GI issue that prevents me from being able to properly swallow food, and it's been getting particularly bad. So bad in fact, that eating out is more of an annoyance than a pleasure these days. I've booked very little besides a character breakfast for this trip, as I've been nervous about the GI issue. Well, I saw the GI doctor today and he recommended a test as well as dilation procedure that should help me - and we can do it tomorrow! With a little luck and pixie dust, I should be able to eat like a normal person again. I'm really excited about this, but the only issue is that I've done pretty much zero research on DLR dining - so I need your help!

I'd gladly welcome your suggestions for quick and table service at the parks/downtown Disney area! Here's what I've got so far:

Aladdin's Oasis, booked only for PTN viewing, WOC dessert party, a breakfast at Carnation Cafe, and Minnie's character breakfast at the plaza. I'm looking mainly for your favorite QS or casual TS places, but we might splurge for one signature as well (or more if my BF wants to treat, lol). What are your must-do's?

Wish me luck, and TIA for your suggestions!

 

[poohnpigletCA]

Yippee you get to eat. Ok our families favorites:
Minnie's for character
Dole whip for snack
Tangora Terrace at DL hotel great quick service (shrimp tacos, bbq pork, salmon) and right next to Trader Sams for fun beverages
Flo's V8 in DCA
I am trying to pull up what restaurants will be closed when you are there but Disneylands website is not working. I will come back later to update.

 

[theluckyrabbit]

By any chance is your problem related to Achalasia? If this is dysphagia and not an actual digestive problem (like an allergy or GERD), then I would suggest eating wherever you like (unless you know for certain that a specific food will cause trouble, e.g. spicy food, etc.), but make sure to allow enough time for a relaxed meal. If your esophogeal muscles are relaxed, swallowing will be easier. Warm water, not iced, can help with swallowing. Most CS places in DLR will give you a cup of cold water and a cup of hot water to mix. TS places will give you a pot of hot water to mix with your regular water. We've always had great experiences at Napa Rose, Jazz Kitchen, Carnation Cafe, Cafe Orleans, CCR and CC Lounge, and Blue Bayou.

 

[Travis B]

By any chance is your problem related to Achalasia? If this is dysphagia and not an actual digestive problem (like an allergy or GERD), then I would suggest eating wherever you like (unless you know for certain that a specific food will cause trouble, e.g. spicy food, etc.), but make sure to allow enough time for a relaxed meal. If your esophogeal muscles are relaxed, swallowing will be easier. Warm water, not iced, can help with swallowing. Most CS places in DLR will give you a cup of cold water and a cup of hot water to mix. TS places will give you a pot of hot water to mix with your regular water. We've always had great experiences at Napa Rose, Jazz Kitchen, Carnation Cafe, Cafe Orleans, CCR and CC Lounge, and Blue Bayou.

I don't think so - my issue seems to happen higher in my esophagus. It is dysphagia, just higher up. I'm hoping the dilation they perform will remedy the issue - as it does seem to be related to constriction of the esophagus, but I don't get any of the heartburn or reflux symptoms. I'm cautiously optimistic!

 

[corinne76]

Just wanted to drop in and say I hope the procedure goes well and I'm thrilled you will be able to eat.
I spent a month with gastroparesis, couldn't eat ANYTHING. It sucked more than anything.

DLR is just about the best eating place ever. I have allergies to dairy, gluten, soy, eggs. So for me, I was so happy to get a good burger with a bun that didn't taste like cardboard. I loved Hungry Bear and Taste Pilots.
Dinner at Carnation CAfe was just blah for me, but I was limited in choices.

Have fun!!

 

[firstdislander]

I have eosinophilic esophagitis, I have to be careful of what I eat for a few days after a scope. If you need a few easy food days, there are dole whips, tomato soup at the Jolly Holiday, and clam chowder in both parks. I could eat dole whips at least twice a day! Items on my list for my trip this summer - fried chicken at Plaza Inn, Rancho del Zocalo, french dip at French Market. Hope your procedure goes well, best wishes. And have a great time at Disneyland.

 

[3DisMunchkins]

Good luck to you! My boyfriend had swallowing issues for years causing his esophagus to close and choking. He had this procedure done over a year ago and hasn't had a single episode since. They say he may have to repeat some day but so far so good! Hope you have the same!
As for food, we're not big foodies but we have enjoyed pasta at pizza port, chicken at plaza inn, and of course dole whips!
Have a great trip!

 

[Travis B]

Good luck to you! My boyfriend had swallowing issues for years causing his esophagus to close and choking. He had this procedure done over a year ago and hasn't had a single episode since. They say he may have to repeat some day but so far so good! Hope you have the same!
As for food, we're not big foodies but we have enjoyed pasta at pizza port, chicken at plaza inn, and of course dole whips!
Have a great trip!

It makes me really happy to hear a positive report - thanks for sharing. I'm excited but trying to remain cautious just so I won't be too disappointed if things don't work. I only have a few more hours to wait until I go in. I think the worst thing is that I can't eat or drink anything before the procedure, and I'm really missing my morning coffee.

 

[melk]

Hope everything went smoothly for you and you'll be able to eat anything you like on your trip to DL (I have no restaurant advice as our first visit is next month).

 

[Mandi Bartz]

I wish you the best of luck!! I have had dysphagia at the base of my neck (kinda where an adams apple would be) since being intubated for many days last June. They cant seem to figure out why mine keeps closing back up. Currently sitting here having my lunch of yogurt, jello, and a protein drink. I have to go in about every 2 weeks for a dilation. We leave in 17 days and I go in next Thursday and am hoping it will last for the trip!!

On a lighter note, my whole family loves to eat at Pizza Port! Tons of food for a very decent price!!

 

[3DisMunchkins]

how did it go?? Well, I hope!

 

[MomForFrozenAddicts]

I know Cove Bar is famous for its drinks, but I really enjoyed the Lobster nacho as well. Although the wait was long but I think it was totally worth it. (The Zombie from their secret menu may have colored my judgement a little LOL)