We're bringing DoleWhip back...again! COMPLETE: Sanaa and Yachtsman!

[cbg1027]

Thanks for finding that pic of the AP Hot Pot! Wasn't quite what I was expecting, but looks yummy nonetheless.

 

[Schoolbread]

Wow, it all looks really delish. I am all over that Artist's Pointe menu. YUMMERS! I loved the sunrise pic at Wilderness Lodge!

 

[JerseyJanice]

I am still reading your previous trip report, and I don't believe I have commented yet there, but I want to thank you for sharing your experiences and photos.

I will be staying at the Wilderness Lodge next June on the DxlDP, so I really appreciate this thread. It's getting me so psyched!

Thanks again.

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

I'm loving your reviews! We just got back from our stay at the Grand Floridian on the 29th.

Glad that you're enjoying the reviews, and I hope you had a great time at GF! I love that place a lot, but I don't think we'll be staying there for a while. With the monorail operation changes and the imminent construction of a new building right on GF's beach, I think we're going to avoid GF for a while.

Thanks for posting the menus! I enjoy reading through them. I'm glad I cancelled my Narcoossees ADR, I was in an OMG I have to eat there mood the last time I saw an updated menu, but while things sound good, nothing on the one you posted stands out as something I must try. Next year I'm going to try and take a long trip with deluxe dining and eat at all the signature restaurants - that will make planning a lot easier, since I won't have to choose between a lot of favorites. I can just eat at all of them!

I think eating at all of the sigs is a great idea! Choosing between them is hard enough, and I think doing them in a short period of time makes it easier to compare and figure out which are your true must-do favorites.

OK I will be following your report until I head to the airport. Your pictures of WL and the sunrise are breathtaking. I cannot wait to be there! And my DS saw the smoothie and he is planning to use a snack credit for that!

Thank you for sharing!

You're welcome! And I highly recommend getting a smoothie for a snack credit. They have other flavors too, such as tropical.

What a wonderful lineup! And your meal at AP looks awesome...so sad we didn't get to try that one on our trip.

We were actually at Yachtsman on the same night as you, according to your schedule.

Hope you enjoyed your dinner at Yachtsman! We love that place and had another great meal there...although I will say the steaks are probably out least favorite thing there.

Uh oh, the Yachtsman menu is not good...they got rid of their chicken dish! None of the other dishes look appetizing at all (I really only eat chicken and fish)...what is a french red hen? I tried googling it and I got fairy tales...not food. I was mainly going so DH and the rest of my family could enjoy their steak. Wondering if I should try to switch ADRs...

Don't worry about Yachtsman. French red hen was just chicken. I ended up choosing it and it was a delicious dish overall.

DonaldDoleWhip,
Will you please post the Boardwalk room service menu?
Thank you.

So sorry...we had already left Boardwalk when I saw this post. The menu on allears actually is accurate for the most part (the prices might be slightly higher now, but the actual dishes are practically the same). Hope that helps!

Great pictures! I never realized how similare AKL CL is to the WL CL, location and view wise.

I noticed the similarities too. Both lounges are nicely situated over their resorts' beautiful lobbies. One difference I noticed is that WL's food service room is enclosed (in a cabin-like room), while AKL's food area is more open. Also, I think WL has more sitting areas, although they're more spread out across the entire floor.

Joining in here!
All your pics are amazing! If I wasn't drooling over the food, I was "awe"-ing at the great pics you took of one of my favorite hotels. It's so beautiful there.

Glad you like the pics! And WL definitely is a beautiful place. For a while, we never wanted to stay there because of the smaller rooms and worse transport options, but I think everything else about the resort makes up for it!

Thanks for finding that pic of the AP Hot Pot! Wasn't quite what I was expecting, but looks yummy nonetheless.

Wasn't what I expected either. I thought the dish would be served in a pot with some actual mussels in it. Nevertheless, if it tastes good, I'd still like to try it!

Wow, it all looks really delish. I am all over that Artist's Pointe menu. YUMMERS! I loved the sunrise pic at Wilderness Lodge!

I love AP and Wilderness Lodge so much! I still feel like Artist Point is the "yet-to-be discovered" signature...I just think it should be more popular than it is! Sometimes it seems like very few people have actually tried it. AP doesn't really have the novelty of places like California Grill, Narcoossee's, or Jiko, but the food there makes it a must-do for us.

I am still reading your previous trip report, and I don't believe I have commented yet there, but I want to thank you for sharing your experiences and photos.

I will be staying at the Wilderness Lodge next June on the DxlDP, so I really appreciate this thread. It's getting me so psyched!

Thanks again.

I hope you have a wonderful time at Wilderness Lodge! The resort certainly has some great food options where you can burn some credits. Never tried Whispering Canyon, but AP is a favorite of mine and Roaring Fork has some unique snacks.

 

[SimplyGoofy]

I'm in!

I look forward to trying several of the restaurants you visited (Cali Grill, Brown Derby, Yachtsman...), so I can't wait to read your reviews!

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

I'm in!

I look forward to trying several of the restaurants you visited (Cali Grill, Brown Derby, Yachtsman...), so I can't wait to read your reviews!

Glad you're here! Hope you enjoy the reviews.

Le Cellier is coming right up!

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

After having my "snack" at Boardwalk Bakery, I continued along the walkway to Epcot. It's a really nice walk with beautiful views of the Crescent Lake area.

In no time, I made it to Le Cellier for lunch. I've had my ups and downs at Le Cellier, but going into this meal I felt that Le Cellier was probably the strongest theme park restaurant overall. It has some great dishes on the menu, such as the marinated tuna appetizer and mushroom filet, but because of my strange aversion to ordering the same thing twice in a row, I decided to shake things up.

Here's the current menu, taken from the Disney World website (it's accurate, and I forgot to take my own pic).

This time, I chose a bowl of cheddar cheese soup, made with moosehead beer and bacon. It was good, without a doubt, with the crunchy bacon, creaminess, cheese flavor, and subtle tang from the beer addition. That said, I'm not as crazy about this dish as others. It's quite heavy for an appetizer. In fact, I would say this is my least favorite appetizer on the menu (I've tried the tuna, chicken sausage, and duck meatballs, and I think I'd also prefer the mussels and tomato stack).

The soup was brought out at the same time as the bread, which has recently changed.

For comparison's sake, here's what it looked like just a month ago:

I miss the old basket, where all 3 breads were created equal. The pretzel bread is largely the same, and clearly it's the one that they emphasize now. The sourdough bread was worse than before - it's more dry and less soft than before, almost like Coral Reef's bread. The multigrain has more texture than it did before, although I think the old one had better flavor overall. Eh, the breads didn't make much of a difference to me, since I basically used them all to soak up the soup.

My entree choice was the Asian salmon burger with crisp Napa cabbage slaw, cilantro mayonnaise, and french fries.

I liked it. The salmon flavor was very strong, and the burger was moist enough without being undercooked. The real star for me was the Asian slaw. I'm not a big fan of "slaws," but this was lighter on the mayo and had a zesty, refreshing flavor. I also liked the thick-cut fries. I liked this dish, but it was no mushroom filet. Still, the burger and cheese soup were really filling, and I don't think the dessert menu is fantastic here, so I shockingly skipped dessert.

Service was fine, efficient enough. Not as good as it's been on recent trips.

And that brings me to the conclusion of this review. I'm starting to become a bit disillusioned with Le Cellier, because every time I order something besides the filet, I'm not too impressed. Overall, this meal wasn't indicative of the "best theme park restaurant" label that I recently used to describe Le Cellier. Yes, the menu has some really nice appetizers, an impressive entree (the filet), and a good chocolate cake for dessert, but overall I find the lunch entree and dessert selection to be subpar. Le Cellier is no longer my top theme park restaurant - that title has returned to Brown Derby. In fact, it's no longer our favorite 1-credit restaurant; Raglan Road took that honor a few days later.

We were supposed to have another lunch at Le Cellier this trip, after moving to Boardwalk. My mom asked me to cancel it, and with this meal fresh in my mind, I didn't hesitate.

On a more positive note, I returned to Wilderness Lodge soon after lunch. This time, I checked out the afternoon lounge offerings.

Goldfish, gummi bears, trail mix, and fruit:

Sugar and chocolate chip cookies:

Water, cranberry juice, lemonade, and iced tea (I liked mixing the cranberry juice and lemonade):

The food area:

And the view of Bay Lake from the lounge:

 

[bigdave10000]

And that brings me to the conclusion of this review. I'm starting to become a bit disillusioned with Le Cellier, because every time I order something besides the filet, I'm not too impressed. Overall, this meal wasn't indicative of the "best theme park restaurant" label that I recently used to describe Le Cellier. Yes, the menu has some really nice appetizers, an impressive entree (the filet), and a good chocolate cake for dessert, but overall I find the lunch entree and dessert selection to be subpar. Le Cellier is no longer my top theme park restaurant - that title has returned to Brown Derby. In fact, it's no longer our favorite 1-credit restaurant; Raglan Road took that honor a few days later.

I really enjoy your reviews. What do you think of Bistro de Paris? I was there last September and loved it. We went to Chefs the night before and there was no comparision. Bisto is my favorite theme park restaurant. With Brown Derby coming in second.

Another problem I have with Le Cellier going to Sig status for dinner is how all the tables are packed in tight. We went for lunch last September and could never relax with hearing the conversations on either side. It was like being at the same table.

David

 

[goofy4prez]

Service was fine, efficient enough. Not as good as it's been on recent trips.

And that brings me to the conclusion of this review. I'm starting to become a bit disillusioned with Le Cellier, because every time I order something besides the filet, I'm not too impressed. Overall, this meal wasn't indicative of the "best theme park restaurant" label that I recently used to describe Le Cellier. Yes, the menu has some really nice appetizers, an impressive entree (the filet), and a good chocolate cake for dessert, but overall I find the lunch entree and dessert selection to be subpar. Le Cellier is no longer my top theme park restaurant - that title has returned to Brown Derby. In fact, it's no longer our favorite 1-credit restaurant; Raglan Road took that honor a few days later.

We were supposed to have another lunch at Le Cellier this trip, after moving to Boardwalk. My mom asked me to cancel it, and with this meal fresh in my mind, I didn't hesitate.

I was truly hoping to read a rave review about Le Cellier from you. I told my DW if you came back with a glowing report of LC I would just have to go ahead and give this place one more try; I think I'll pass.

As for me I guess I'm a bit on the "goofy" side. I really enjoy Coral Reef as a theme park restaurant and there is something about Biergarten that I just love as well even though I wouldn't call brats and kraut fine dining. Keep up the fine trip report, love it so far.

 

[MickeyNicki]

The more I read the reviews for LC the more I want to cancel it...but I dont know if I should cancel it for AP or Yachtsman? Oy this shouldnt be that hard right?

 

[Tracerr00]

Great reviews once again! Sorry to hear about your LC experience - I guess it's good that I don't get there very often so I can't bring myself to order anything other than the mushroom filet! Thanks for the honest reviews and fantastic photos! Because of you I'm not going to cancel any of my existing ADRs but definitely going to try to squeeze in a visit to AP!

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

I really enjoy your reviews. What do you think of Bistro de Paris? I was there last September and loved it. We went to Chefs the night before and there was no comparision. Bisto is my favorite theme park restaurant. With Brown Derby coming in second.

Another problem I have with Le Cellier going to Sig status for dinner is how all the tables are packed in tight. We went for lunch last September and could never relax with hearing the conversations on either side. It was like being at the same table.

David

Unfortunately I haven't tried Bistro yet. But the menu looks great, and I'm hoping to finally give it a shot in about 2 weeks!

Agreed on Le Cellier, it doesn't have a signature atmosphere. I honestly think there were some good improvements to the dinner menu, but the overall experience isn't worth it.

I was truly hoping to read a rave review about Le Cellier from you. I told my DW if you came back with a glowing report of LC I would just have to go ahead and give this place one more try; I think I'll pass.

As for me I guess I'm a bit on the "goofy" side. I really enjoy Coral Reef as a theme park restaurant and there is something about Biergarten that I just love as well even though I wouldn't call brats and kraut fine dining. Keep up the fine trip report, love it so far.

It's hard to say for sure, but I don't think you're really missing out by not returning to LC. You didn't even love the mushroom filet (which I admittedly enjoy), so I can't imagine the other dishes winning you over. I might try their burger though - it gets some great reviews.

As for Biergarten, the food is quite heavy and fatty. That's the main reason I don't love it. And Coral Reef could be a lot of fun, I love sitting next to the tank. If only the food could be any better than Applebee's without costing twice as much!

The more I read the reviews for LC the more I want to cancel it...but I dont know if I should cancel it for AP or Yachtsman? Oy this shouldnt be that hard right?

I understand - it's a difficult choice and you don't want to feel like you missed out. If it were up to me, I would push everything aside for Artist Point , but if the menu doesn't appeal to you very much then Yachtsman. To me, Le Cellier dinner is almost between AP and Yachtsman. Not as good of a steakhouse as Yachtsman, not as good Pacific Northwestern as AP, but still representing both.

Great reviews once again! Sorry to hear about your LC experience - I guess it's good that I don't get there very often so I can't bring myself to order anything other than the mushroom filet! Thanks for the honest reviews and fantastic photos! Because of you I'm not going to cancel any of my existing ADRs but definitely going to try to squeeze in a visit to AP!

I think sticking with the filet is a very wise choice (as is fitting in AP ). At least at AP, when I order different things, I'm usually happy with whatever it is. Le Cellier should strive for that across the menu if it has any intention of living up to its reputation.

 

[goofy4prez]

views.

As for Biergarten, the food is quite heavy and fatty. That's the main reason I don't love it.

Ahhh, and that's the reason I love it. That one week I'm in Disney I don't want to worry about the calories and the fat. It's my week to indulge in the pleasures of life and Biergarten is one of them.

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

Ahhh, and that's the reason I love it. That one week I'm in Disney I don't want to worry about the calories and the fat. It's my week to indulge in the pleasures of life and Biergarten is one of them.

Wow, that's a really great attitude to have. If only I lived the rest of my life like that, then I'm sure by the time I got to Disney all I would want is a plate of bratwurst and spaetzle.

 

[scanne]

Quick question for you....
I was just able to get a lunch ressie at Le Cellier. Would you keep that and give up Yak and Yeti? The last time we ate at Le Cellier was in 2000. We have never dined at Yak and Yeti.

Just looking for opinions since you ate at LC recently.

Thanks!

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

Quick question for you....
I was just able to get a lunch ressie at Le Cellier. Would you keep that and give up Yak and Yeti? The last time we ate at Le Cellier was in 2000. We have never dined at Yak and Yeti.

Just looking for opinions since you ate at LC recently.

Thanks!

After this past meal at Le Cellier, I'd say either is a pretty fine choice. I don't love Yak & Yeti (although that could have to do with my personal bias against Landry's), but some of the items on the menu are pretty tasty (the seafood stew gets good reviews). In addition, I really liked their cream cheese wonton dessert. It was surprisingly not too greasy, and the flavors (honey, vanilla, cream cheese, fruit, crispy wonton) worked well together.

Le Cellier is another restaurant that people seem to really like or not like too much. I think the mushroom filet with truffle butter is a great entree, and many of the appetizer choices are solid. That said, I've been disappointed whenever I chose something besides the filet for my main course.

Yak & Yeti has more atmosphere. The decor is interesting, and there are lots of cool sights to look at. That said, I give Le Cellier lunch bonus points for being one of the most coveted reservations at Disney (like eating in the Castle, except the food at LC is way better).

I would recommend picking LC if most people in your party will choose the filet. If not, then I'd just go with whichever is more convenient (if you plan on being in AK, then Yak & Yeti).

Hope that helps!

 

[cbg1027]

Sorry to hear Le Cellier has fallen in the ratings for you. I've only been once and while it was good, I'd rather just be at the signatures.

That last photo of Bay Lake from the CL Lounge is amazing! Good photography!

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

Sorry to hear Le Cellier has fallen in the ratings for you. I've only been once and while it was good, I'd rather just be at the signatures.

That last photo of Bay Lake from the CL Lounge is amazing! Good photography!

Agreed on the signatures - they almost always deliver, but I just can't stop myself from returning to LC. There are quite a few reasons why: its reputation, the mushroom filet, the fact that scoring a ressie here makes me feel special , etc. But I think I'd enjoy it more if I went less often and just stuck with the filet.

Glad you like the photos! I don't even think they do WL justice. It's so beautiful, I can't say enough good things about it!

 

[starousse]

Donald, would you say that the dinners have been better?

 

[DonaldDoleWhip]

Donald, would you say that the dinners have been better?

We didn't love California Grill's food as much as we have in the past, and we thought the service at Narcoossee's was lacking. But besides that, you can expect smooth sailing.