Beaches and Cream -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Beach Club Resort
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop
Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is a small table service restaurant located at Disney's Beach Club Resort that serves classic soda shop fare, like burgers, fries, and ice cream. It's long been one of my favorite spots for a gluten free and dairy free ice cream sundae. But, it can often be hard to get an advanced dining reservation for, due to its size and popularity. With the summertime heat here in Orlando, Brandon and I didn't feel like cooking one evening for dinner. So, we looked for openings for dinner at Disney World. As luck would have it, a random reservation was available at Beaches and Cream, which meant ice cream sundaes and sandwiches for us!
Atmosphere
One of the first things you'll notice about Beaches and Cream is its bright colors and 1950s soda shop theming.
There is both a walk-up counter for ice cream and a full table service restaurant inside, which gives you a few choices for dining options. Since the restaurant is quite small, it can be hard to get a walk-up without a long wait.
Inside, you'll see brightly colored booths alongside one wall, a large counter (which resembles the old fashioned soda shops), and table seating in the middle of the restaurant. As a two-top table, we usually get a seat in the middle of the restaurant. But, the booths always look so cozy!
Do take some time to look around too. You'll see some of the cutest decor straight out of an era gone by. There's even a vintage jukebox too.
The Food
Like many other Disney restaurants, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop does carry an allergy-friendly menu. My biggest recommendation when dining there is to be sure to speak with a coordinator or manager on duty. That's because many items that are available to special dietary needs guests are not actually listed on the allergy-friendly menu.In fact, I can't think of a visit where I haven't ordered something off the menu. Often, it's just a simple modification that's easy to do. For instance, on this visit, I asked if the Reuben Sandwich could be made gluten free. And, after investigating, we found out it was just a swap of the bread, which was great news. They also don't list French Fries as an option for gluten free and dairy free guests. But, if you ask, they can make you fries in a dedicated fryer. We were told on our most recent visit by Ashley the coordinator that it might take a bit longer to get my food due to preparing my meal in another kitchen space.
With that in mind, we did get a giant bowl full of French Fries made in a dedicated fryer served before my sandwich. These are safe for those guests who are gluten free and dairy free. Though I don't have a photo here, Brandon's fries were the thick cut steak fries, while mine were the classic thin cut Disney fries. On other occasions, I have been served the thick cut steak fries from a dedicated fryer. So, my guess it it depends on availability.These were good, as always. And, both Brandon and I nibbled on these while we waited for the rest of our meal, as these actually arrived before any other food. It was definitely nice that the coordinator was working to ensure my wait didn't feel too long.
I was super excited to try Reuben Sandwich with Corned Beef, Sauerkraut, Swiss, and Thousand Island Dressing on Gluten Free Bread. This can be made gluten free with the bread swap and might be able to be made dairy free minus the cheese. I don't think there's any dairy in the Thousand Island Dressing (at least there isn't usually). So, it's always worth asking a coordinator or manager about it.
Hands down, this is the best meal I've ordered at Beaches and Cream. The Reuben was super flavorful and tasty. I gave Brandon a bite of this, and he agreed that it might be the best sandwich we've ordered there. The only negative was that they used Udi's Gluten Free Bread, and it got super soggy. I am guessing the combination of the bread with the moisture from the meat, sauerkraut, and sauce just made it a little more soggy than it should normally be. But, that being said, I'd totally get it again, soggy bread or not! This will probably be my new go-to sandwich when we dine there.
Because we can't go to Beaches and Cream without ordering ice cream (yes, this is totally a rule in our family), I had to get my favorite sundae. Like the rest of the allergy-friendly menu, the specialty sundaes are not listed on the menu. It's always worth asking if certain ones can be modified. In fact, I've had readers share photos of dairy free and gluten free versions of the Mini Kitchen Sink. So, there's definitely some options!For me though, it's always all about the No Way Jose Sundae. I get mine with gluten free and dairy free ice cream, peanut butter sauce, and chocolate sauce. If you're just gluten free, you can get hot fudge, whipped cream, and even chocolate chips on it.
The modified No Way Jose Sundae is huge! I ordered mine with chocolate and vanilla Tofutti non-dairy vegan ice cream. But, you can also get So Delicious Coconut Milk Ice Cream or Vanilla Flavored Rice Dream too, depending on your preference and special dietary need. I just love the combination of chocolate and vanilla flavors along with tons of peanut butter sauce and chocolate syrup. The No Way Jose Sundae never fails to disappoint. And as much as I want to try other sundaes, I just can't resist this one.
Overall
If you're looking for a reasonably priced table service location or epic ice cream sundaes (or in our case, both!), you can't go wrong with Beaches and Cream. It's a great spot for a meal, and within walking or boat distance from Epcot and Hollywood Studios. We do recommend that you make ADRs prior to your visit, as this can be a popular restaurant, especially during summertime. If you prefer to just get ice cream and not sit in the table service dining area, you can also get special dietary needs ice cream options at their walk-up window too!Have you been to Beaches and Cream Soda Shop? What did you enjoy when you visited there?
Columbia Harbour House -- Dinner -- Quick Service -- Magic Kingdom
*This dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at Columbia Harbour House
Columbia Harbour House, located in Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom, is a one of my go-to quick service restaurants in the theme parks for allergy-friendly chicken tenders. Even though the allergy-chicken tenders are typically the same across Disney property, for some reason, I just like the way they cook them at Columbia Harbour House. Recently, we stopped by the restaurant for a quick early evening dinner as Brandon and I were both craving allergy-chicken tenders.
Atmosphere
There's something really charming about Columbia Harbour House's theme. It's meant to reflect a Colonial era sea-faring town (like Boston).
From the decor to the cast member costumes, everything definitely says Colonial times.
One of my favorite spots in the restaurant is the second floor. It's a great spot to enjoy a quiet meal and get away from the hustle and bustle of the theme park crowds. Plus, it's perfect for getting a bird's eye view of the restaurant and Liberty Square outside.
As you can see by this photo, there is ample seating on the second floor. But, depending on the time of day, you just might have the restaurant seating to yourself. We dined around 4 p.m., and as you can see it was pretty quiet.
The Food
Like most restaurants in Disney World, Columbia Harbour House does carry an allergy-friendly menu. Although I didn't think much of it when we ordered, I did notice that the menu had changed slightly from our most recent visit in March 2018.
We ordered two orders of the allergy-friendly chicken tenders and were given a pager to come back when they were ready.
When we arrived back at the counter, the manager at Columbia Harbour House presented us with our allergy-chicken tenders. But, both Brandon and I noticed immediately that they looked completely different from the Ian's brand allergy-friendly chicken tenders that Disney has been serving at locations across property. We both asked if this was a new change, and the manager told us he was told that this was a property wide change that would be happening due to issues with supply for the Ian's brand.
He also offered to show us the packaging for the the chicken tenders, which were Chef's Line brand. These are gluten free, dairy free, and egg free and may cover some other special dietary needs, as well. They are also certified gluten free. You can find out more about the brand and ingredients on their website.As we learned from some blog readers, Disney's Special Diets Department has advised guests that they are testing out several different allergy-friendly chicken tender brands, including those that are top 8 free. Many readers have expressed disappointment that these contain soy. Unfortunately, even when Disney has served soy free allergy-friendly chicken tenders, they have not been an option for soy free guests at some locations due to the oil used to fry them. So, sadly, the allergy-friendly chicken tenders have been hit or miss with those are who soy free. Still, it's nice to know that Disney is testing a variety of options to ensure the tastiest and safest options for guests.
As you can see, two orders of Allergy-Friendly Chicken Tenders and Fries made in a dedicated fryer is a ton of food. So, if you're not that hungry or have a small appetite, you can easily split one order. I also always ask for Ken's Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce, which is gluten free and a nice condiment for the chicken tenders and fries.
Once we were seated, we had to dig in and see how the new allergy-friendly chicken tenders tasted. The verdict? I think they taste very similar to the original AllergyFreeFoods brand of allergy-friendly chicken tenders that Disney used to serve. So, if you had that particular brand and loved them, you will really enjoy these chicken tenders. They do have more breading on them, so under-cooking is a bit more of a potential too (which Brandon noticed).If you are a fan of the crunchier Ian's brand allergy-friendly chicken tenders, you might be disappointed by these. Brandon much prefers the Ian's brand, so he was pretty saddened by the new brand change. He doesn't mind the new ones, but he loves the Ian's brand, so this was a bummer for him. Of course, taste is all subjective, so it completely depends whether you will like one version or the other. I like both, and didn't mind the new version for some different variety.
Overall
Columbia Harbour House is still our go-to spot for allergy-friendly chicken tenders at Disney World. We'll be interested to see how the new allergy-friendly chicken tenders changes continue. And, we're interested to try some other brands too. In the meantime, we might be at Hollywood Studios at ABC Commissary or the Backlot Express for the Ian's brand allergy-friendly chicken tenders so that Brandon can get his cravings in before they switch to a new brand.Have you been to Columbia Harbour House or another location for allergy-friendly chicken tenders? What did you think of the brands served at Disney?
Geyser Point Bar & Grill -- Dinner -- Quick Service -- Wilderness Lodge
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at Geyser Point Bar & Grill
Geyser Point Bar & Grill, located at Disney's Wilderness Lodge, offers al fresco dining with a view of Bay Lake. The food and drinks served there are inspired by the Pacific Northwest. We dined there once last year and absolutely loved the relaxed atmosphere and low-key vibe, but we haven't had a chance to go back. Recently, we decided to go back on an evening when the temperatures were really mild for the summertime and made for a beautiful evening dining outside.
Atmosphere
The Wilderness Lodge has always been one of my favorite Disney resorts. Taking the walk from the main lodge to the new Disney Vacation Club area (Copper Creek) where Geyser Point is located definitely reminds me how much I love the resort.
When we arrived at Geyser Point, we had two dining options. Go to the walk-up window to order or be seated in the bar area. We definitely recommend and prefer the bar seating area with all of its cozy seats and perfect views of Bay Lake. On an evening when the temperatures are mild, it's a perfect spot for outdoor dining.
Initially, we were offered a seat in the back of the bar/lounge area. But, we asked if we could have a seat closer to the water, and they were able to accommodate us as the restaurant wasn't too busy.
You can also sit at the bar area too, if you're not ordering food or just prefer the high top seating.
Over the course of our meal, the day went from sunset to dark in the course of an hour. Just in time for Fireworks and for the Electrical Water Pageant. You'll get great views of the Water Pageant from here (a classic!) and if you move closer to the water you can see the fireworks with a better view too.
The Food
Geyser Point Bar & Grill does not carry an allergy-friendly menu. However, a chef will come out to speak with you about options. Chef Connie took care of us and was fantastic. I asked about the burger and waffle fries -- both of Chef Connie said could be made gluten free. The waffle fries are made in a dedicated fryer, so you can eat waffle fries with abandon! (and we probably could have; they are that good).
Keeping it simple that night, I ordered the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger with Bacon, Tillamook Cheddar, Lettuce and Tomato served on a Gluten Free Bun and served with Waffle Fries. These were made gluten free but the entree could be dairy free by omitting the cheese on the burger. I also asked for a side of the Marionberry Barbecue Sauce and Garlic Aïoli that are normally served with the Bison Burger.The burger itself was very good. While it's not quite as good as the burgers at D-Luxe (which I think are hands down the best quick service burgers at Disney World). But, it was good. What really made the burger was the thick cut bacon and Tillamook Cheddar. The sides of Garlic Aioli and Marionberry Barbecue Sauce were also nice touches too. If you're not a fan of sweet barbecue sauce, I might avoid this one as it is very sweet -- almost like a jam. It's good, but a little bit goes a long way. The garlic aioli was perfection and made for an awesome dipping sauce for my waffle fries.The hands down winner of this meal were the waffle fries. Oh my goodness gracious. These are delicious. Seasoned and crispy and just perfect. It's so rare to get waffle fries out at a restaurant, so I'll never turn down an excuse to order them when I can safely. And, these were downright addicting. We actually contemplated ordering another side of these; they were that good!
Overall
If outdoor dining is something you enjoy on occasion or you're just looking for a quick service meal that's a bit more relaxed and off the beaten path, you can't go wrong with Geyser Point Bar & Grill. The food here offers some solid special diets options. And, the dishes we have tried have all been very good. It's definitely a location we'll plan to visit again on cooler evenings for a low-key and affordable meal...and those delicious waffle fries!Have you been to Geyser Point Bar & Grill? What did you order when you dined there?
ABC Commissary -- Dinner -- Quick Service -- Hollywood Studios
*This dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at ABC Commissary
ABC Commissary, located in Disney's Hollywood Studios, offers quick service lunch and dinner with a more fast-casual vibe during dinner time. On this particular occasion, we decided to stop by for a quick dinner while visiting the newly opened Toy Story Land one night. Unfortunately, we did not have the best experience at Woody's Lunch Box, so we opted to dine somewhere else in the park instead. It's been a while since we've been to ABC Commissary, so we thought we'd check it out.
Atmosphere
ABC Commissary is meant to resemble a backlot commissary, where you'd find cast and crew of tv shows and films enjoying a meal in between filming. With that in mind, the theming really does resemble what you would imagine a large cafeteria style commissary would like like.
I wouldn't say there's anything special about the theming and decor in ABC Commissary. It's all fairly bland and non-descript.
One of the best things I like about the interior is that they have small live trees in inside. Although, both Brandon and I were pretty confused as we kept seeing guests come by this one tree and shake it. So bizarre.
The seating in ABC Commissary is pretty spacious, though we both agreed the seats have very low backs, which don't make them very comfortable.
The Food
The last time we visited ABC Commissary for dinner, we were given an allergy-friendly dinner menu. But, when we asked a cast member this time, we were told they did not have any. The cast member did note that most of the items on the dinner menu can be made gluten free. But, we asked if we could get the allergy-friendly chicken tenders, which are on the lunch menu but not the dinner menu. Thankfully, you can get allergy-friendly chicken tenders any time of day if you ask!
After you place your order at ABC Commissary, guests are given a pager style device, and the food is brought to your table by a cast member. At dinner, ABC Commissary has paper plates that look a bit fancier and also include silver plastic silverware, hand wipes, and mints that help give the meal a more upscale quick service vibe.Both Brandon and I ordered the allergy-friendly chicken tenders which are gluten free, dairy free, and free of many other allergens too. As always, we love the allergy-friendly chicken tenders at just about any location we get them at. Both of us agreed that the chicken tenders at ABC Commissary seemed extra crispy and almost a little overcooked, but they were still very good.
Because ABC Commissary also serves fried shrimp, I had a feeling they would serve Ken's Steakhouse Cocktail Sauce. I asked a cast member about this, and they happily brought me several cups of it. I love that Ken's Steakhouse condiments are gluten free, and I really like dipping my fries and tenders in this particular sauce whenever I can get it.
Overall
ABC Commissary doesn't have any special theming or extra special food items. But they do provide a solid quick service meal for lunch and dinner. While lunch is a bit more basic, dinner has some more filling items like ribs. We personally love the allergy-friendly chicken tenders any time of day for a filling and tasty meal, and we're glad that ABC Commissary can provide us with this and several other options.Have you been to ABC Commissary? What did you order when you dined there?
Remy -- Dinner -- Disney Dream
*This gluten free dining experience took place in May 2018.
Dinner at Remy
Remy, a signature dining location on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy cruise ships, is the most upscale of any of the restaurants on the Disney Cruise Line (and maybe any cruise ship out there). It's essentially Victoria & Albert's on the high seas, which means it's definitely a special occasion or fancy date night kind of restaurant. Like Palo, Remy is an adults only restaurant and comes with a bit of a hefty price tag at $95 per person for dinner. Of course, when you consider the price of Victoria & Albert's or any other high end restaurant on land, this is actually not a bad price. So, if you're interested in fine dining or just want to channel your inner Ratatouille, we highly recommend Remy if you're sailing on the Disney Dream or Disney Fantasy. It is a quite popular location, so be sure to book in advance when possible. If you don't, there are often openings at Remy for dinner, if you check on during embarkation day.When we were planning our most recent cruise on the Disney Dream, I knew we wanted to dine at least one adults only restaurant. Of course, when we found out that Palo is now offering a brunch on the Nassau port day, having brunch and then dinner at either Palo and Remy seemed like a great option. I asked Brandon, who had never been on the Disney Cruise Line, which restaurant he preferred for dinner. And, he said he'd love to try Remy for the experience alone. And experience we did.Hands down, our meal at Remy was the best dining experience we've ever had in our lives. We both agreed that it was just perfection from the service to the food and everything in between. So, let's take a look at our meal at Remy. Our dinner was 3 hours long, so be prepared for lots of photos and details about this restaurant experience.
Atmosphere
Remy is located on Deck 12 of the Disney Dream. From the moment you step into the adults only dining area, you know you're going to experience something special. Both Palo and Remy have very different themes. And, as you'll see, Remy is inpsired not only by the animated film Ratatouille but by classic Art Nouveau designs.
Besides enjoying dinner here, we also took a free tour during our Nassau day called "The Art of the Theme," which I highly recommend. It took us through areas like Palo, Remy, and other areas on the ship to look at the theming and design. It was about an hour long and so fascinating. While on the tour, we were able to get a lot of photos and a ton of information about the development of both Remy and Palo.
When you enter Remy, you'll notice a large wine cellar to your immediate right. While it might seem like it's just a ton of wine bottles and nothing special, be sure to stop and take a look at these 3 wines shown above. All three of these wines were featured in the animated film Ratatouille and are very rare bottles of wine. In fact, one of them is only 1 of only a handful of bottles left in the world, as it was made during World War II when the wine making was dramatically affected. It's marked at a shocking $25,000. Yikes!
Remy offers guests a cozy and intimate dining experience, so the tables are fairly spread out. And, the restaurant does stagger their seating schedule. As you can see from the photo above, the Art Nouveau theme is present in the carpets and general decor. You'll also notice large windows with a panoramic view perfect when you're dining at sunset and sailing on the high seas.Don't forget to use those lovely little stools next to the tables. You can place your cameras, purses, or other small items when you dine here.
Most of the tables near the windows have seating for 2 people. But, we saw several larger groups seated there during our meal, as well. The back of the restaurant includes a lot of the larger party tables too.
Besides the main dining room, Remy also includes the "Gasteau Room" meant to be a replica of Gasteau's from Ratatouille. It's super charming, and the decor is totally different than the main dining room. There are even paintings that are meant to resemble an open kitchen and the Paris skyline.Typically, the Gasteau Room is used for private groups (we were told often for celebrities) because it can be closed off from the main dining room. However, we were also told that you can request to be seated in the Gasteau Room if the room is not booked upon request (and availability).
While the adult dining isn't very Disney themed, you will still find some touches. At Remy, this includes tiny Remy carvings in chandeliers, metal-work, and even in the wood on your chairs. How adorable is that?
Here is a view from our corner table booth (we both thought was the best front table, as it was super cozy) during the first part of our meal. You can see, we had terrific views of the ocean. And, it was gorgeous as sunset began.
The Food
As you can tell, we were both wowed by Remy even before we started eating the food! But, the food definitely took our experience over the top. Let's dive in...
In between Remy and Palo is Meridian -- a lounge used for guests with reservations or those who want a more upscale lounge experience. They also have a gin and tonic cart. As someone who is a huge G&T fan, I had to get one while we waited for our table at Remy. The gin & tonic cart is super fun because you can mix and match not only which gin and tonic you want, but the bartenders will also add in custom botanicals to your drink.Both Brandon and I ordered the Monkey 47 – Schwarzwald Dry Gin. I can't remember the tonic water it was mixed with, but the botanicals included rosemary, cinnamon, lemon, and juniper berries. We were both shocked that this was only $15 a drink, which if you know Disney prices is about average for many of their fancier cocktails. This drink was a super wow and one I would totally get again. Just very flavorful and not overpowering in any way.As an aside, for those who have celiac disease or are concerned about alcohol that might be distilled with grain. Some gins are naturally gluten free while others are distilled with wheat. According to the University of Chicago Celiac Disease and peer-reviewed scientific research, “in pure spirits, the distillation process makes these beverages safe because the protein is removed. However, flavored spirits may contain malt, and should be avoided.” With this in mind, I do drink gin and I feel no adverse reactions. However, if gin does not make you feel great, there are loads of other drinks you can order too.Also, I should mention that Remy offers a signature drink called the Collette (which is champagne and vodka based), but our server Jerome saw that we already had drinks and said he didn't want to overload us with alcohol straight out of the gate and promised to bring something at the end of our meal to cap the occasion. If you're interested in hearing more about the Collette, check out my review of Remy from 2014.
Once seated our server Jerome helped us on our way to a decadent meal and great experience. First up, the restaurant will ask if you want to view the fancy water menu. We did opt to order a bottle of Voss still water from Norway. But, you do not have to order off this if you do not want to, as it is an additional upcharge. Simply ask for tap water, and your server will make sure that is available to you complimentary.
One note about the specialty water. If you order this, chances are you'll go through a bottle or two on your visit. Your server will not ask you if you wish to have a second bottle; they'll just typically bring out another one. So, if you're not prepared to buy a few bottles, best to tell your server in advance.
Other non-alcoholic drinks in the restaurant are included in your $95 per person charge. I ordered an unsweetened iced tea because I wanted to try out the iced tea ice cubes, which I had also had during my brunch at Palo. What an awesome trick. Your tea won't get diluted, which helps keep the flavor the entire time you're drinking it. Hilariously, we had one specific cast member who brought me tea. As he joked, "I am the special server of tea." Now that is some serious service.
Prior to our meal, Jerome discussed both of our special dietary needs. He noted Brandon's allergies to fish and shellfish and that I had celiac disease. Not only did he assure us we would have plenty of options, but he also took great care at customizing our meals (more on that in a minute).Up first, we were each brought an amuse bouche -- a little taste -- to get us started. At first glance, it looks like a crouton. And, it sort of is. It is a tomato soup cube that when you let it sit on your tongue allowing it to melt without chewing turns into literally tomato soup. It's super fun and a total Willy Wonka type experience. And, even better? They can make it gluten free with GF breadcrumbs. It also happens to be dairy free too!
But that wasn't the only amuse bouche we were presented with. Both Brandon and I received a green curry with coconut milk foam. His version included a pappadum type crisp on top, while mine was served without.Goodness gracious this was delicious. I love all things curry, and this was so outstanding. The lemongrass and aromatic flavors from the curry broth were super balanced out by the creamy coconut milk foam. And, the lime zest on top. So good. Even Brandon really enjoyed it, and he's not a big curry fan.
After the Amuse Bouche items, our first courses started arriving. As I mentioned, Jerome walked us both through the menu, including the set menus from the chefs of the restaurant (which includes Chef Scott Hunnell from Victoria & Albert's) and the a la carte items. He recommended that my meal be more of the French style while Brandon's was more the American style. We really trusted his recommendations, and he totally didn't steer us wrong.My first course was a King Crab served wrapped in cabbage, with radish, and a dashi broth. It was earthy and sweet all at the same time. The cabbage and crab worked really well together and the broth was super flavorful.
Up next was Lobster and four different types of corn. This had lots of richness from the lobster and sweetness from both the lobster and the corn. It was cool try try different corn presentations from small bits of puree to baby corn. Although absolutely delicious, of the courses it was my "least favorite" which is not really a criticism as the dish was still perfection.
In between all of this, we were also served bread. Brandon had several different options to choose from, while I was brought out Udi's Gluten Free Baguette sliced. They also served butter with an edible gold powder R etched in. Talk about fancy! It is important to note, you can also get Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Spread at Remy too, upon request. Because I have reintroduced dairy back into my diet, I did not ask for it on this particular visit.Although nice to have a bread option, I personally wouldn't fill up too much on this. There's just too much amazing food to eat to fill up on standard GF bread!
For my third course, I was brought Fletan (or Halibut) with leeks, green onion, mussels, and a mussel broth. Good time of day this was amazing. The fish was just pure perfection in flavor and preparation. And the accompaniments were just so fresh and flavorful. Funnily enough during both of my Remy visits, the halibut was my favorite entree. So, if you like fish, order the halibut at Remy. You won't regret it!
My fourth main course was Wagyu beef with celery root, celery, and a decadent sauce. If you are a beef lover, you will enjoy this dish. I gave Brandon a bite of it, and he also thought it was outstanding.
As if we hadn't had enough food at this point, after our main meal courses, the cheese cart was brought to our table. In many fine dining experiences, cheese is brought after your meal as a palate cleanser. In this case, the cheese cart server (yes, there was a separate server of cheese!) already noted my special dietary needs and that some accompaniments would not be safe. But, he took great care and preparing us two plates. One with soft cheeses and one with hard and more powerful cheeses.
Up first is the plate with the hard and more powerful cheeses. This was the plate served to Brandon and includes oh so many stinky cheeses, which he loved.
I was served a plate of soft cheeses that included Brie, Camembert, and Neufchatel. The Neufchatel was by far the one I liked the most.
And, we still weren't done with food after all of this. For dessert, Jerome brought us both a serving of Peruvian Chocolate with chocolate tuile, edible gold, and a salted caramel gelato. If you like chocolate, this is a hands down must. It's truly some of the most intensely flavored chocolate dessert I've ever had. The mousse was dense and incredible. Even though I've reintroduced dairy back into my diet, I still avoid ice cream. But, I took one bite of the salted caramel gelato and found it to be quite delicious too.Remember that complimentary drink that Jerome mentioned to us in place of the Collette? It was during dessert that he brought us two flutes of champagne to enjoy. Talk about a nice touch! It was perfect to sip on as we celebrated an amazing cruise and a fantastic last evening on the Disney Dream.
And, the food was still going even after dessert. Our final course was the candy course. This included several tarts for Brandon, lollipops, soft fruit candies, and chocolate filled with caramel sauce. The lollipops, soft fruit candies, and chocolate were all gluten free.If you like sour patch kids, the soft fruit candies will be up your alley. They were so sour but had a lovely flavor once the sourness dissipated.My favorite was the chocolate. It tasted like a high-end Rollo, and there's nothing wrong with that!
As we finished up our meal, our server Jerome brought me a Rose to take back to the room with me and presented Brandon with a box of chocolates. Such a lovely touch to end the meal.
Overall
Words and photos really can't describe how amazing our meal was at Remy. Our server Jerome was over the top amazing and made the meal just fun. At one point, while we were trying to be discrete taking photos, Jerome told us to take all the photos we wanted. So, that made us super relaxed as we enjoyed it all. Every single cast member in the restaurant that we encountered was also amazing. Truly some of the best service you'll ever have at a restaurant. Add to that some of the most incredible food, and you find yourself with an experience you won't soon forget. While Remy isn't a restaurant that's everyone's speed or taste (there is a dress code required too), for those who think they might want to enjoy a fine dining experience while on the ship, we highly recommend Remy.Have you been to Remy? What was your experience there?
Raglan Road Irish Pub -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Disney Springs
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at Raglan Road Irish Pub
Raglan Road Irish Pub, located in Disney Springs, is one of our favorite table service restaurants for good fun, entertainment, and special diets options. In fact, it just might be the restaurant that we've written the most dining reviews about. There's just something about Raglan Road that keeps us coming back again and again. And, we're not the only ones who agree. It's received lots of accolades and awards for being just a fantastic restaurant all around. Plus, you just can't beat the classic Irish fare. On this particular visit, we stopped by Raglan Road with family who had never dined here before. So, we were excited to show off the delicious eats and great atmosphere to them.
Atmosphere
Of course, one of the things that makes Raglan Road so special is the atmosphere and theming. You'll feel like you visited a proper Irish pub when you step into Raglan Road.
One of the things I love the most about Raglan Road is the authentic decor. In fact, they actually shipped pieces of the pub, including the wood you see in the photo below directly from Ireland. How cool is that?
Raglan Road features live entertainment, including Irish step dancing and bands playing Irish music. It can get a little raucous in the main dining room seating area, as you might expect. So, if loud and rowdy atmosphere isn't your thing, we recommend visiting earlier in the day when the entertainment is a little more low-key or seated in one of the side dining rooms of the restaurant.Because we had a larger dining party, we were seated in one of the bigger tables in the side dining room. Both Brandon and I were in love with the table seated near a fireplace with cozy chairs. We totally want to ask to sit there on our next visit.
The Food
Raglan Road is not owned and operated by the Disney Company. And, they do not carry an allergy-friendly menu. But, they do a great job at making sure that guests with special dietary needs are well taken care of. Typically, your server will go through the options with you, or consult with the culinary team on your behalf with any questions you might have. Overall, I have always found them to be excellent at accommodating.
Of course, one of my first things to order at Raglan Road has to be a pint of Magner's Irish Hard Cider. It's so good and totally feels like a proper pub drink.
One of the best things about Raglan Road is that they can make almost all of the fried food options gluten free and dairy free safe in a dedicated fryer. That includes fish and chips, scallops, and as shown in the photo here, onion rings. This is one appetizer I can't help but order. They're so good. We shared these with the non-GF eaters in the group, and they enjoyed them a lot too.Currently, the onion rings are served with a Dalkey Mustard (which is both gluten free and dairy free). But, you can also ask for other condiments too.
For my entree, I ordered the Boaring Burger which includes a Grilled wild boar burger, Cashel blue cheese, crispy gluten free onion strings, arugula, port and pear chutney with herb aïoli served on a gluten free bun.Can, I just say this entree is a "wow!" It is one of the most unique burgers I've had on Disney property, and it's a big winner for me. I've had it several times and enjoyed it each time. I'm also blown away each time that I order this that they can make gluten free (and dairy free) onion straws to top the burger off. As most of us gluten free folks can attest to, it's rare to get something like that prepared safely on a gluten free sandwich. I had tried this burger when they were making it a daily special item, and I'm so glad it's made it to the regular menu now.
Overall
As always, Raglan Road Irish Pub delivers on special diets options, atmosphere, and entertainment. We love that the restaurant works hard to make sure guests enjoy a safe meal and even provides options for food that we might not normally be able to get when dining out. Even better? We find that Raglan Road is a restaurant that is great for all different types of tastes, appetites, and budgets. So, there really is something for everyone. Even with all the new dining locations at Disney Springs, we still make Raglan Road a must-do dining visit.Have you been to Raglan Road Irish Pub? What did you think of the special diets options available there?
The Wave -- Breakfast -- Table Service -- Contemporary Resort
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Breakfast at The Wave
The Wave, located in Disney's Contemporary Resort, is a table service that is often overlooked by Disney guests. Tucked away on the first floor of the Contemporary Resort, The Wave is a bit of a hidden gem when it comes to table service dining. Both Brandon and I really enjoy dinner at The Wave, and I have found breakfast to be equally solid. On this particular occasion, I made an early Sunday morning trip by myself to the Magic Kingdom and stopped by The Wave for breakfast. I hadn't been for breakfast in quite a while and thought it would be great to check it out again.
Atmosphere
In some of my dinner reviews, I have gone into more detail about the restaurant's atmosphere. As you can guess from the name, the restaurant reflects both waves and New American cuisine.
I always appreciate that the restaurant's entrance looks like an artistic wave.
I was seated in a small table in the main dining room. As you can see, the wave theme is found in the ceiling and on the chairs. I also like the modern carpet and colorful decor.
The Food
Of course, what I was really at The Wave for was the food! At breakfast this restaurant offers both an a la carte menu and a buffet. With this in mind, I was brought the allergy-friendly breakfast menu and the allergen guide for the buffet. At any time, you can also speak with a chef to discuss options, including having items from the buffet brought directly from the kitchen to avoid cross-contamination.
On this visit, I opted to order from the a la carte menu. There were quite a few options on it, and the chefs at The Wave are very good at customizing too.
I decided to order the Omelet Your Way with Your Choice of Ham, Bacon, Mushroom, Onion, Tomato, Cheese, or Spinach with Breakfast Potatoes. This is marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. It can also be made dairy free upon request.Overall, I really enjoyed my omelet. I ordered mine with ham, onion, spinach, and topped with Tillamook Cheddar (since I've reintroduced dairy back into my diet). The omelet was well-cooked and chock full of ingredients. The breakfast potatoes were also quite good and seasoned well. I could have gone without all the peppers and onions, as they weren't as cooked down as I'd like them to be, but overall, the potatoes were a solid breakfast side.
I also asked for gluten free toast with my breakfast. The non-special diets version of this entree comes with a biscuit, so it's worth asking for the side of toast because it was not listed as an included side. I wasn't charged extra for it, so that was a nice bonus too.On previous visits, I was served Udi's Gluten Free bread at both breakfast and dinner. But, on this visit, I was served Ener-G brand bread which is gluten free, dairy free, and vegan (and covers many other special dietary needs too). I also asked for a side of Earth Balance vegan buttery spread for the toast. Though I do eat some dairy now, believe it or not I still prefer the Earth Balance.The toast itself was quite good, and I have to say that I've been impressed with the Ener-G bread that I've been served recently. Disney seems to be adding it to more restaurants in place of Udi's Gluten Free bread. And, I have found that the Ener-G bread tastes better than what I remembered.
On my way out, my server Victor offered me an iced tea to go. How adorable is the Mickey straw he gave me to go with the drink? Talk about a magical way to end a delicious breakfast.
Overall
The Wave consistently offers a delicious breakfast with a variety of options. Although I did not get them on this visit, guests can speak with a chef about ordering The Wave's signature sweet potato pancakes gluten free (and dairy free) too. Plus, their options for a la carte and all-you-care-to-enjoy style dining give you plenty to choose from. You definitely won't go hungry. If dining at a more low-key restaurant is your speed, you'll appreciate The Wave's more relaxed and quieter atmosphere too. This is a restaurant that I'll continue to visit for an occasional breakfast on a lazy Sunday or before heading into the parks.Have you been to The Wave? What did you enjoy when you dined there?
Woody's Lunch Box -- Dinner -- Quick Service -- Hollywood Studios
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Dinner at Woody's Lunch Box
Woody's Lunch Box is the newest quick service restaurant in Disney's Hollywood Studios located in Toy Story Land which opened at the end of June 2018. After seeing a ton of photos on Instagram and on other social media of the gluten free options available to guests, I knew we needed to make a visit. We had fastpasses for the Alien Swirling Saucers in Toy Story Land on the Fourth of July, so we planned on grabbing dinner while we were there.Though the crowds were relatively light that evening, we ended up having a less than magical experience at Woody's Lunch Box. As you'll read from my review, I think even a small amount of crowds, the small ordering space, and the fact that the kitchen is still getting the hang of the menu, really impacts the experience you have at this quick service restaurant. I've heard some really fantastic experiences, unfortunately, ours was not one of them. I still want to give it another chance, especially for breakfast (more on that later!) And, I'm hoping this was just an isolated incident.
Atmosphere
Woody's Lunch Box is meant to resemble Andy's lunch box, now opened for a restaurant for all "honorary toys" (aka Disney guests) to enjoy. If you've ever been to Bug's Land (RIP!) in Disney's California Adventures, you'll find a lot of similar theming inspiration in making everything feel big, as if you're a tiny visitor to the land.
Woody's Lunch Box actually looks like a real lunchbox turned on its side. This means there's no indoor seating. So, expect a walk-up counter similar to some of the other quick service spots in Hollywood Studios, like Catalina Eddie's.
There's a moderate amount of outdoor seating, some of which is shaded. It was fairly full when we visited. And the restaurant wasn't all that busy comparatively. So, I can only imagine how hard it was to find a seat during opening weekend.
Even the cash registers were well themed. How cute is this?
Woody's Lunch Box is sponsored by Babybel Cheese. So, you'll see lots of Babybel Cheese wedges throughout the restaurant, including as seats! (shown in the photo above by the restaurant's entrance). I totally need to sit in those Babybel Cheese chairs!
The Food
As of early July 2018, Woody's Lunch Box does not currently offer an allergy-friendly menu. When you reach the cash register, you'll ask the cast member to speak with a manager who will advise you of the special dietary needs options available to you.
We were advised that pretty much all of the menu could be made gluten free. Sides like Macaroni Salad and Tomato-Basil Soup both contain gluten, so those are no-go's for gluten free guests. But, the Potato Barrels (aka Tater Tots!) are safe, as they are "fried" in convection oven. Although I did not ask about it on this visit, I have heard mixed reports about whether or not the vegan chili in the "Totchos" is gluten free. We'll definitely be checking this out again to confirm.For those guests who are dairy free or vegan, the restaurant offers Daiya vegan cheese (which is also gluten free) for any sandwich or for the "Totchos," which is great.
After speaking with the manager, we decided to order the BBQ Brisket Melt with Potato Barrels and the Kid's Grilled Cheese with Potato Barrels. The manager told me to wait near the counter but on the side as my order would take a little longer to prepare. They do not, at this time, have pagers for guests with special dietary needs.Brandon ordered a gluten-filled sandwich and when his was ready, he grabbed a seat for us while I waited. And waited. And waited. About 18 minutes in, I was brought one tray with the BBQ Brisket Sandwich and was advised that my regular Kid's grilled cheese would take a bit. At this point, I realized the manager must have rang up the order wrong (as another manager prepared my food), and didn't mark the kid's grilled cheese gluten free.Once I realized the error, I quickly informed the other manager who said, "Oh. I'll be back." and then did not return for another 15 minutes. She gave me the now cold BBQ Brisket sandwich that had been sitting there the entire time and a half cooked grilled cheese. I did speak with her about the long wait, the need for pagers, and why she didn't remake my sandwich. The manager advised me that they were busy and that I was the 5th allergy order and that the wait was due to that, although I did not see any other allergy order pick-ups while I was waiting. She seemed quite frazzled and did not offer to remake my sandwich that had been sitting.Ultimately, I just went ahead and grabbed a seat with the food, as I was definitely rather tired of hanging out at the counter for 30 minutes.
The first sandwich was the BBQ Brisket Melt with Sliced Smoked Brisket, Pickles and tangy BBQ Sauce between melted Cheddar and Monterey Jack Cheeses on Gluten Free Bread. Our sandwich came without cheese, though we didn't request it this way. I am guessing they were busy and forgot it.I think this dish would have been really delicious warm/hot. Unfortunately, ours was not hot after sitting around for a while. But, we could tell the flavors of the sandwich were still good. The brisket portion was quite large. And, we enjoyed the combination of BBQ sauce and pickles added to it. I would be interested to see what it tastes like with cheese (now that I've reintroduced dairy back into my diet).The Potato Barrels were OK. I had both hot and cold versions on my plate. So I did get to taste them while they were still warm. I think they could have used some seasoning, as they were just plain and a bit bland.
The Kid's Grilled Cheese included Melted Provolone and Cheddar Cheeses with a Cheddar Cream Cheese Spread on Garlic Buttered Grilled Gluten Free Bread served with a Mandarin Orange, Potato Barrels and your choice of Beverage (we opted for a Small Dasani Water). For those guests who are dairy free, you can order this with dairy free / vegan Daiya Cheese. So, it's nice to see that as an option.
I have to say that the Kid's Grilled Cheese (which somehow ended up a full sandwich instead of half), was amazing. This was the winner of the two sandwiches. This may have been because it was actually warm. But, overall, we thought the flavors were outstanding. Both Brandon and I loved the garlic butter on the bread and the different kinds of cheeses in the sandwich. That being said, it was rich. Splitting it and sharing a half portion was definitely the way to go.
Here's a close-up photo of the Potato Barrels. Brandon actually ordered a second side of these mostly because he felt the portion served with the sandwiches was on the small side. Then again, we're both big fans of tater tots because you really can't go wrong with tots (even if they're kind of just basic).
The only downside we saw to the Kid's Grilled Cheese is that it wasn't melted all the way through. In other words, they didn't cook it long enough. For comparison, here's a photo of Brandon's gluten-filled Grilled Cheese. You can see how ooey-gooey and melty it was. It's a big difference in the look of how they are cooked.
Overall
While we didn't have a particularly great experience here, we do want to visit again. I think we'll wait a bit before heading back for a lunch or dinner, since those are the busiest times. And, it may be easier to avoid until they get the hang of things in the kitchen and with handling special dietary needs orders there. But, we would definitely go back sooner for the breakfast, as we're dying to check out the gluten free version of the S'more French Toast Sandwich. Fairy Tale Foodie has a post about this on their blog, and it looks amazing. Overall, Woody's Lunch Box has a ton of potential for really fabulous special diets options, and we hope things will improve as the restaurant goes forward.Have you been to Woody's Lunch Box? What did you think of the special diets options?
Ale & Compass -- Breakfast -- Table Service -- Yacht Club Resort
*This gluten free dining experience took place in July 2018.
Breakfast at Ale & Compass
Ale & Compass Restaurant, formerly known as Captain's Grille, is a table service restaurant located at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. I've been wanting to dine here since the restaurant reopened in late 2017. And, I recently had the chance to finally get a meal here. On this particular occasion, I decided to stop by Ale & Compass for breakfast to check out their special dietary needs options.
Atmosphere
Ale & Compass received a serious overhaul from what it used to be as Captain's Grille. Gone is the drab 1990s nautical theme. And, now, it has a chic and modern feel to it.
One of the things that I noticed immediately upon entering the restaurant is that the restaurant had a lot of dark navy, gray, and white colors to the decor and theming. I do think that it was a little bit darker inside overall. But, the general decor is a major improvement.
The tables feature modern chairs and lots of bench seating. And, the restaurant's seating capacity is fairly large given that it's a bit off the beaten path.
I really loved the chairs, silverware, and mugs at the tables. Everything had a very modern and simple in design.
There is also a brightly lit main dining area, with side seating and other smaller rooms throughout the restaurant. I was seated near some of the window area and really enjoyed the brightly lit area. My only complaint would be the bench seating. I opted to sit in the bench seating side of my table to get a view of the dining area. Unfortunately, the benches by the exterior of the restaurant are quite low and not that comfortable. So, be warned, they aren't the coziest of benches.
The Food
Ale & Compass offers guests with special dietary needs an allergy-friendly breakfast menu. However, I definitely recommend still speaking with a chef. Not only can they go over the a la carte options for you, but they can also walk you through the newly added breakfast buffet. If you do choose to dine at the breakfast buffet, be sure to ask the chef for items from the kitchen directly to avoid cross-contamination.One of the things I noticed about the allergy-friendly breakfast menu is that there were not a lot of gluten free options marked. Chef David came to my table to speak with me about options. He did note that I could get allergy-friendly Mickey waffles and modify the Breakfast Protein Bowl to be gluten free. I also asked if he could make the blueberry bacon pancakes gluten free. He said that he could but that he would advise against ordering them as the pancakes are quite thin.I'll be honest that he did not seem all that willing to customize and also didn't seem to note that there were many options to choose from. Finally, I settled on the Eggs Benedict after Chef David said that I could have it if they switched the English Muffin for gluten free bread. I also got a side of allergy-friendly Mickey waffles.
The Eggs Benedict came with Poached Eggs, Slow Roasted Barbecue Pork Loin, Roasted Tomatoes, Gluten Free Bread, and Spiced Herb Hollandaise served with Potatoes. This dish was modified to be gluten free but does contain dairy. It is also marked safe for Peanut/Tree Nut and Shellfish Allergies on the allergy-friendly breakfast menu.Overall, I thought this was a solid Eggs Benedict. The eggs were perfectly poached and the hollandaise was very flavorful and had a hint of smokiness to it. I really liked the pork loin served with it too. The only thing I wasn't keen on was the grilled tomato. I would have preferred the Eggs Benedict without it, and I honestly don't think it needed it.The breakfast potatoes were really tasty and included a blend of regular potatoes and sweet potatoes. They were cooked and seasoned well and were a great side dish to the Eggs Benedict.
I also got a side order of Allergy-Friendly Mickey Waffles served with 100% pure maple syrup. These waffles were marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Fish/Shellfish, Milk, and Peanut/Tree Nut Allergies on the kids' menu. When I asked Chef David about the waffle batter, he said they were using Bob's Red Mill Pancake & Waffle Mix. But, after tasting the waffles, I determined it was definitely Namaste Pancake & Waffle mix, not Bob's Red Mill. Some locations are still using the Carbon's Golden Malted Gluten Free Pancake & Waffle Flour Mix, which I do not like at all. So, I was glad to see either of the other allergy-friendly batters being used instead.
Overall
While I wouldn't say that my breakfast Ale & Compass was the best I've ever had on property, it was still a very good meal. I really enjoyed my Eggs Benedict and Allergy-Friendly Mickey Waffles. It's definitely a location that I'll visit again, though I'd like to check out their lunch and dinner options first before going back to breakfast again. Shout-out to my server Alyssa who was awesome throughout my meal. She did a great job and made the breakfast experience really pleasant and relaxing.Have you been to Ale & Compass Restaurant? What did you think of the special diets options offered there?
The Wave -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Contemporary Resort
*This gluten free dining experience took place in April 2018.
Dinner at The Wave
The Wave at Disney's Contemporary Resort has quickly risen to one of our favorite hidden gem restaurants at Disney. Brandon and I have always really enjoyed our meals here, and we love the fairly quiet and low-key atmosphere. On this particular occasion, we had dinner at the Wave with Brandon's parents. They had never been, and so we wanted to bring them to a restaurant that we really enjoy.
Atmosphere
Although I wouldn't say that the Wave's atmosphere at first glance is anything special, if you take some time to look around, you'll find some lovely decor and theming.
One of my favorite touches at the Wave are the food prints found throughout the restaurant. The one above here represents pomegranate and the one in the photo below is an artichoke. Such a fun and subtle nod to all things food!
As you can see by the photos, the "wave" theme is present in the waves on the chairs, in the candle holders at your table, and if you look at the ceiling, waves below the light fixtures.
The Wave includes a side room, which is not always open when you dine there. On this occasion, they had opened it, and we were seated in a nice low-key corner of the room, which made for a nice meal with family.
The Food
The Wave does carry an allergy-friendly dinner menu, and you can always speak with a Disney chef at any time to discuss options.
Prior to my meal, I was brought Udi's Gluten Free Bread which is both gluten free and dairy free, toasted. It came with some regular butter, as I forgot to ask for Earth Balance. But, the restaurant does have it on hand. I have found that the bread option here is my least favorite part of the meal, as the bread is often under-heated or not heated at all. So, if anything it was nice to see it toasted (they do have a dedicated allergy toaster).
Because I have reintroduced dairy back into my diet, Brandon and I decided to split the Bacon and Eggs Appetizer. This comes with Maple-lacquered Pork Belly with Perfect Egg and Tillamook Smoked Cheddar Grits and is marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Fish/Shellfish, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies.As always, this is a WOW appetizer. The flavors are incredible, and this is one dish we have a hard time not ordering when we visit the Wave. It's that good!
For my entree, I ordered the Pork Two Ways with Grilled Pork Tenderloin, Slow-roasted Berkshire Pork Belly, Spiced Apples, Bourbon-Bacon Jam, and Chestnut Puree. This is marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Fish/Shellfish, Peanut, and Soy Allergies.This was another WOW dish for me. I have ordered the pork entree from the Wave before, and it was good, but this one was so completely elevated. It was hands down the best thing I've ever ordered at the Wave. I think after I took about two bites I proclaimed that the Wave had stepped up their culinary game. It was just a show-stopper.From the gorgeous presentation to the combination of flavors, it was just perfection. I also shared a bite of this with Brandon, and he agreed that the pork on this dish was just outstanding. This was definitely heaven on a plate.
Both Brandon and his mom ordered the Grilled Beef Tenderloin with Winter Vegetables, Potato-Celeriac Mash, and Red Wine Reduction. This was marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Fish/Shellfish, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. They both raved about the steak and said it was one of the most well-cooked steaks they'd had at Disney. Brandon also said that the potatoes were incredible. So, if you're a steak lover, this might be the dish for you at the Wave.
Overall
We were so pleased with our meal at the Wave. The food was absolutely incredible and really did feel like a step up from what was already a very solid restaurant. Everyone loved their dishes, and we all agreed that the new menu updates really elevated the restaurant's dining options. We will definitely be back again, and hopefully, before they update the menu again, because I definitely want to order the pork dish again. It was so good!Have you been to the Wave? What did you order when you dined there?
Turf Club Bar & Grill -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Saratoga Springs
*This gluten free dining experience took place in April 2018.
Dinner at Turf Club Bar & Grill
The Turf Club Bar & Grill is a table service located at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. It's one of those Disney restaurants that I think is often overlooked, as it's a bit tucked away. While I won't say it's my favorite place on property to eat, I have enjoyed several meals here. On this particular occasion, we stopped by for an impromptu dinner one night when we could not get any seating at the restaurants at Disney Springs.
Atmosphere
The Turf Club's atmosphere includes dark wood features. On several occasions, we have found the restaurant to be a bit dark. But, on this visit, it was fairly bright inside.
Because it had been pouring rain, and we were soaking wet from the downpour, I did not take a lot of photos inside. We were just happy to be inside!
The Turf Club does have a lounge area outside of the restaurant's entrance. It's a nice place to sit and grab a drink before dinner.
There is a small bar outside of the restaurant too that offers a full bar menu, including the classic Disney drinks served at most bars and lounges on property.
The Food
The Turf Club does carry an allergy-friendly dinner menu. And, guests always have the option to speak with a chef before ordering to discuss options.
Before our entrees arrived, I was served Deanna's Gluten Free Rolls which are gluten free and dairy free. I found them to be well-heated at the Turf Club, which was nice.
I also asked if they had any Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Spread on hand. Even though I have re-introduced dairy back into my diet, I do prefer the Earth Balance over regular butter. Thankfully, they had some on hand.Our server kindly topped my Earth Balance Vegan Buttery Spread with some gray sea salt, which was a very nice touch. This was super tasty with my Deanna's Gluten Free Rolls.
For my entree, I ordered the Grilled New York Strip with Hand-cut Rosemary-Parmesan Fries, Grilled Asparagus, and Roasted Garlic Butter. This dish was marked as safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Fish/Shellfish, Milk, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. But, this is definitely a dish that I would speak to a chef about, as it was marked safe for milk allergies but contained both cheese and butter. This is one of the many reasons I tend to speak with a chef instead of just ordering off the menu.The dish actually can be made dairy free. But, they do need to remove the butter and cheese from the dish.Overall, I enjoyed the steak. I thought the portion was huge and everything was well cooked. My French fries were really crispy and super delicious as was the asparagus. I wouldn't say the dish was special, but I'd definitely order it again.
For comparison, here is a photo of Brandon's steak. He also ordered it, but his was served with the butter on top of the steak. He did also try my fries for comparison and said mine tasted fresher and more crispy. We both thought his looked like it had been fried in older or more used oil.
Our friend who dined ordered the Grilled Verlasso Salmon with Fingerling Potatoes, Carrot Puree, Crispy Bacon, Asparagus, and Creamy Cucumber Salad. This dish is marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. He really enjoyed this and said he would definitely order again.I had ordered this on my last visit to the Turf Club Bar & Grill, and I have to be honest that I was not a huge fan. The salmon itself was good, but I did not enjoy the cucumber salad. So, I do think it really depends on your personal preference and taste when it comes to ordering dishes.
Overall
Our unexpected meal at the Turf Club Bar & Grill turned out to be a solid meal experience. While we wouldn't necessarily pick the Turf Club as our top choice for dining at Disney, we have always found the food to be decent. Add on top of that some decent size portions, and you have a good option if you're staying at Saratoga Springs or nearby at Disney Springs and want a low-key meal.Have you been to the Turf Club Bar & Grill? What did you think of the options when you dined there?
Grand Floridian Cafe -- Breakfast -- Table Service -- Grand Floridian
*This dining experience took place in June 2018.
Breakfast at Grand Floridian Cafe
The Grand Floridian Cafe located at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is one of those table service locations on Disney property that I have had hit or miss experiences with. It's been a while since I had been for breakfast, and when my family was staying at the Grand Floridian DVC rooms for the weekend, it seemed like the perfect time to enjoy a meal there again.
Atmosphere
Of all the Grand Floridian Resort table service restaurants, the Grand Floridian Cafe is the most relaxed and laid back, in my opinion. It's great for a casual meal.
I somehow managed to forget to take a photo of the entrance, so here is a photo from a dinner experience we had there. As you can see from the lighting in both this photo and the one from our breakfast, you can see how the lighting and look and feel of the restaurant really change depending on the time of day.
I personally prefer breakfast here, where the restaurant really brightens up. There's plenty of seating, and I always forget how big this restaurant really is.
The Food
The Grand Floridian Cafe does carry an allergy-friendly breakfast and lunch menu. Yes, breakfast AND lunch. This actually threw me for a bit of a loop upon being seated, but I am always on board with brunch. If you're just there at breakfast, you'll want to take a look at the breakfast only options. Or, if you're there for lunchtime, feel free to order up some breakfast!Guests can also speak to a chef at any time during their meal, and I would definitely recommend this if you have questions.
After we ordered, our server brought me some Deanna's Gluten Free and Dairy Free Rolls, which was a nice touch since the rest of the group was enjoying complimentary biscuits before our entrees arrived. You can also ask for some dairy free / vegan buttery spread for them too.
For my main entree, I ordered the Grand Breakfast with Two Eggs served with Bacon, Sausage, and Allergy-Friendly Breakfast Potatoes. I asked for Turkey Sausage instead of regular sausage. This entree was safe for Gluten/Wheat, Fish/Shellfish, Milk, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. Overall, I liked this entree but didn't love it. The breakfast potatoes were a little too peppery for my taste. But, everything in general was tasty and filling.I do miss the days when this entree used to also include a complimentary glass of juice too. That was the first thing I noticed when I looked at the updated menu.
Because I love pancakes and allergy-friendly Mickey waffles, I had to ask about ordering a side. I have had the seasonal pancakes in the past that had an orange cranberry sauce and asked if that was still an option. Our server noted that they don't offer it right now but that they could make a modified version. So, I asked if I could get that as a side.The Allergy-Friendly Pancakes are safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Fish/Shellfish, Milk, and Peanut/Tree Nut Allergies, but because I ordered it with the seasonal modification, it was not nut free, as it contained pecans. In addition to the pecans, it also had slices of oranges on it too. I was also able to get dairy free / vegan buttery spread and 100% pure maple syrup.
Since this is a seasonal item, they did not seem to have all the normal components of the dish, but that didn't stop me from enjoying them. The combination of the oranges and pecans and maple syrup was oh so good. The pancakes tasted like they were made with Bob's Red Mill Pancake & Waffle Mix, and while they were a little on the dry side, a ton of maple syrup help fix that easily!One note about pricing. I ordered these as a side, and they ended up being $7 in total, which is pretty pricey for a side of pancakes or waffles. I do that quite often, and they are usually around $4-$5. My server did tell me that it was because I had the pecans which saw a $2 upcharge. Yikes! Next time, for cost purposes, I would actually order the pancakes as an entree and get some eggs as a side, which seemed much more cost-effective. Still, these were so delicious, that they were totally worth the splurge.
Overall
While I have had some hit or miss experiences with the Grand Floridian Cafe, this visit was a hit due to the seasonal pancakes I ordered. This was a total winner, and I wouldn't hesitate to order them again. In fact, I may have to go back again soon, just to order these. They were that good!Have you been to the Grand Floridian Cafe for breakfast? What did you enjoy when you dined there?
Boatwright's Dining Hall -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Port Orleans Riverside
*This gluten free dining experience took place in June 2018.
Dinner at Boatwright's Dining Hall
Boatwright's Dining Hall is a table service restaurant located at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort. It was a longtime favorite of mine for many years due to some pretty awesome chefs who were working there. Chef Tony who used to the head chef there is one of the big masterminds behind the allergy-friendly beignets over at Port Orleans French Quarter. And his work creating special dietary needs options that were delicious and authentic made both Riverside and French Quarter excellent resorts for guests with special dietary needs. Though Chef Tony is no longer there (if you visit him at Restaurant Akershus in the Norwary Pavilion, you're in for a treat!), I was hopeful that were would still be plenty of great options, when I had dinner there with my family recently. Unfortunately, I didn't have a great experience when I dined there two years ago, so I was cautiously optimistic.
Atmosphere
The interior of Boatwright's Dining Hall is set to resemble an old shipyard. In fact, you can see the remnants of the shipyard prominently featured with the restaurant's sign.
The interior of the restaurant is fairly cozy. We found that there was lots of seating available when we dined there and even lots of nice quiet seating towards the back of the restaurant.
There are actually two different levels of Boatwright's Dining Hall. We always the second level seated in the back, as the front area can get quite hectic and loud.
The Food
Boatwright's Dining Hall has an allergy-friendly dinner menu. It had changed a fair amount since we had dined there two years ago. But, there were still some favorites like the Colonel Peace’s Pieces which includes Crawfish, Oyster, and Okra in a crispy Corn Breading and is gluten free. Unfortunately, this does contain dairy, and on this occasion, I did not ask to see if they could modify it still to be dairy free. Guests can always speak to a chef prior to ordering, although on this visit, I opted not to speak with a chef, as I was only planning on ordering an entree.
Though not special dietary needs related, I have to mention the adorable mason jars the drinks are now served in. So cute and perfect for my unsweetened iced tea!
Our server noted that she would bring me some gluten free rolls, and I asked if I could have some dairy free / vegan buttery spread if they had it. Unfortunately, I was told they do not carry dairy free / vegan alternative and was brought regular butter. Although I have reintroduced dairy back into my diet, I do still try to eat a dairy free most of the time. So, I ended up eating my Deanna's Gluten Free rolls plain, since I knew my entree had dairy in it.
For my entree, I ordered the Lake Charles Risotto with Blackened Scallops over Risotto with Roasted Yellow Squash and a Meyer Lemon Beurre Blanc. This dish is marked safe for Gluten/Wheat, Egg, Peanut/Tree Nut, and Soy Allergies. Unfortunately, this dish was quite possibly one of the worst dishes I have had in a long time at Disney mostly due to how poorly the risotto was cooked. The scallops themselves were actually fairly well cooked, and I liked the blackening seasoning.The risotto on the other hand was a nasty gummy mess. I suppose it's why you see so many cooking shows, like Master Chef or Top Chef, where the chefs have to cook risotto properly. My sister-in-law also ordered this, and she said hers was fine. None of my entree was very hot, so I do wonder if it sat for a bit and got gummy because of sitting for so long. The flavors of the risotto itself weren't bad. But the texture was so bad that I ended up leaving a good portion of the risotto. But, I did hear from some readers about their experiences, and one reader said this was the best dish they had on their trip. Unfortunately, I can't recommend ordering the risotto based on my experience.
Overall
While I love the flavor profiles of Southern and Cajun style food, I wasn't overly impressed with my most recent experience at Boatwright's Dining Hall. This is so disappointing to see a restaurant that I used to love so much falter a bit. I waited two years between dining here and didn't see any major improvements from my visits. With so many other amazing options at Disney, it will probably be a long time before I head back there. Still, I've heard other guests have really great experiences, so if you like Southern and Cajun inspired food, this might be a great restaurant for you. In the meantime, I think I'll stick with Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory and the amazing beignets next door at Port Orleans French Quarter.Have you been to Boatwright's Dining Hall? What was your experience dining there?
Serenity Bay BBQ -- Lunch -- Castaway Cay -- Disney Dream
*This dining experience took place in May 2018.
Lunch at Serenity Bay BBQ
During our three day cruise on the Disney Dream, we spent an amazing day at Castaway Cay, Disney's private island. And, our favorite spot on the island had to be Serenity Bay -- an area exclusively for adults. It is truly a place of serenity. And, we loved every minute of relaxing there on the beach. Guests who visit Serenity Bay can also enjoy lunch at Serenity Bay BBQ, which includes many of the items served at the other Castaway Cay BBQ spots. Because we were having dinner at Remy that night, we decided to enjoy a light lunch at Serenity Bay BBQ.
Atmosphere
Serenity Bay BBQ has a relaxed vibe. Just like any good beach BBQ, it includes all all the BBQ fixins' along with outdoor seating, including covered picnic tables.
Serenity Bay BBQ opens at 11:30 a.m. for lunch. And, as we found out, it is packed during the opening rush. The upside to waiting in line is that we got to take a look at the restaurant theming and decor.
Unlike Cookies BBQ or Cookies Too BBQ, the other dining locations on the island, Serenity Bay doesn't have a ton of seating. We found a lot of people scrambling to find a spot. And, we ended up sharing a picnic table with another couple. Of course, this may be because we got here right when they opened. But, it's definitely something to consider.
The Food
On the Disney Cruise that I took with my mom in 2014, we had lunch at Cookie's BBQ, which is the largest dining location on Castaway Cay. During that cruise, we had tried to eat at Serenity Bay BBQ. But I was advised to eat at Cookies BBQ instead. Typically, Cookie's BBQ will be your best bet for special dietary needs. And, those guests who pre-order meals before arriving on Castaway Cay will pick their meals up at Cookies BBQ. But, since I wanted to eat light and had already had a hearty breakfast, I decided to just see what Serenity Bay BBQ could offer me.
Serenity Bay BBQ does offer more or less the same types of items that Cookies BBQ and Cookies Too do. This includes, burgers, ribs, chicken, and fish. The one exception is that Serenity Bay also offers ribeye steaks, which are not typically offered at any other dining location on Castaway Cay.
As I approached the buffet, I found a cast member and inquired about special dietary needs assistance. Another cast member, who appeared to be a lead cast member at the BBQ advised me that I could not have a lot to eat there. He noted that I could not have any of the items on the standard buffet (including condiments) due to potential cross-contamination.He did not offer to bring me any fresh items, but did say that he could get me a plain burger, chicken, fish, and steak if I wanted it.
I did end up with Mahi Mahi, Chicken, and a Plain Burger. The chicken was definitely my favorite of the three proteins that I was served.
In addition to the plain grilled meats, I could also have some Fresh Fruit. That is definitely one of the things that I like most about Castaway Cay and the Disney Cruise Line buffets. They always have lots of fresh fruit available. I got some mango, papaya, and pineapple.
Serenity Bay BBQ also offered pre-packaged Lay's Potato Chips, which are marked gluten free on their packaging.
Overall
If I was looking for a more substantial lunch on Castaway Cay, I would skip Serenity Bay BBQ and eat at Cookie's BBQ. Unfortunately, Serenity Bay BBQ is not really able to accommodate special dietary needs guests well while Cookie's BBQ included lots of options. On top of that, the managers at Cookie's BBQ made sure I had gluten free & dairy free buns and even condiments for my lunch. If you're looking for just a small snack or bite to eat, Serenity Bay BBQ has a few options, but not a lot. While I'm glad we got a chance to dine here and check it out, next time Brandon and I both agreed we'd head to Cookie's BBQ instead.Have you been to Castaway Cay? What was your experience with the dining options there?
Gasparilla Island Grill -- Lunch -- Quick Service -- Grand Floridian
*This dining experience took place in June 2018.
Lunch at Gasparilla Island Grill
Gasparilla Island Grill is a quick service restaurant located in Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Recently, I stopped by here for lunch with my family while they were staying at the resort's DVC rooms during a weekend visit. It has been three years since I have eaten lunch or dinner at Gasparilla Island Grill, so I was looking forward to checking it out and seeing what options were currently available.
Atmosphere
Like a lot of the theming at the Grand Floridian Resort, Gasparilla Island Grill has a turn-of-the-century Victorian theme to it.
Though it has a vintage look, everything is done with a modern twist, making the restaurant very comfortable to dine in.
There's also more seating than you might expect from a resort quick service restaurant. And, I always tend to gravitate towards the cozy booths in the back of the restaurant for a quiet and low-key meal.
Typically, once you have ordered your meal, you will be given a card with a number on it for your table. A cast member will then bring out your freshly prepared meal directly to your table. This is always helpful, especially with a special dietary need, so that you're not waiting in the ordering area for a long time.
The Food
Gasparilla Island Grill does carry an Allergy-Friendly Lunch and Dinner Menu. I was pretty impressed by the amount of choices I had available to me.
I decided to order the Roasted Turkey with Florida Orange Vinaigrette and Pickled Onions. This is marked both gluten free and dairy free on the allergy-friendly menu. I also had the option of house-made chips or French fries -- both of which I was told were made in dedicated fryers.
As you can see by this close-up of my sandwich, it came with a hearty portion of carved turkey breast. No deli meat here!I have to say that this was an excellent sandwich. And, I was so glad I ordered it. The roasted turkey was very flavorful. But, the real star of the sandwich was the Florida orange vinaigrette. It added a super bright pop of flavors to the sandwich and was very refreshing on a hot day (which is was). The pickled onions also added a nice bit of flavor.The sandwich was served on Ener-G bread, which was pretty surprising. I was honestly expecting Udi's Gluten Free bread which is often the bread I'm served the most at Disney. The cast member asked if I wanted the bread toasted. And, I confirmed before they did so that they had a dedicated allergy toaster, which they do. They did say it would take a bit longer. But, I am glad I waited. The toasting made the Ener-G bread perfect!
Although I didn't pick any up, I did notice that Gasparilla Island Grill did carry OMG...It's Gluten Free Chocolate Chips Cookies and Fudge Brownies.
They also carried Rocky Mountain Caramel Corn and Lundberg Rice Chips. These are all nice grab and go options for gluten free guests (and many of them are also dairy free).
Overall
I was pretty impressed by my lunch experience at Gasparilla Island Grill. Though I'm not often at the resort, it's definitely a spot I wouldn't hesitate to visit again for lunch or dinner. I appreciated that they had a good amount of variety. Plus, they also offer a vegan menu and carry dairy free cheeses for guests who want pizza options too.Have you been to Gasparilla Island Grill? What did you think of their special dietary needs options?
Royal Palace -- Debarkation Breakfast -- Disney Dream
*This dining experience took place in May 2018.
Debarkation Breakfast at Royal Palace
Our amazing three day cruise on the Disney Dream was finally coming to an end. And, to end the cruise on a high note, we made sure to get one last meal on the Disney Dream. Because our rotational dining restaurant on our third night was Royal Palace, that meant we were dining at Royal Palace for breakfast for debarkation. I had enjoyed a lovely breakfast the day before at Royal Palace on our Castaway Cay day. However, because we were dining during debarkation, they offer a modified breakfast menu that includes quick options and easy to prepare fare.
Atmosphere
Although we did not spend much time in Royal Palace that morning, we both really enjoyed the upscale vibe and atmosphere.
The restaurant has decor and theming the represents the Disney princesses to create a meal experience fit for royalty.
The Food
Unlike the lunch and dinner menus on the Disney Cruise Line, typically, breakfast menus do not note if items can be made gluten free, dairy free, or vegetarian.
As you can see by this menu, it offered fairly simple and easy to prepare dishes, while still making sure you left full for the road.
Our server Noel went over some options and suggestions for me, including noting that I could get allergy-friendly pancakes and waffles.
Of course, first things first, we both got some caffeine and juice in us!
Our assistant server Juni, brought us some Kinnikinnick Donuts, which are both gluten free and dairy free, to make sure we got a few pastries in before we debarked. Both Brandon and I enjoyed these just about every day on our cruise. Brandon especially liked the Vanilla Glazed Donuts when they were warmed up. I preferred the Cinnamon Sugar ones.
I asked our server Noel for pancakes but was served both Pancakes and Waffles that were gluten free and dairy free. Though most days you can get allergy-friendly Mickey waffles, at our debarkation breakfast I was served Van's frozen gluten free waffles. I much preferred the pancakes to the waffles overall.
I also asked for some Scrambled Eggs and Bacon which were both gluten free and dairy free. These were definitely nothing special but a nice little protein burst for the road after all the carbs and sugar from the pancakes and waffles I had.
Overall
Debarkation breakfast on the Disney Dream doesn't tend to be anything fancy or elaborate, it always provides a solid and filling breakfast before you leave the ship. Of course, I'd love to have Eggs Benedict or something a bit more upscale. But, I can understand why simplicity is necessary on the last day, as the ship prepares to get ready for another departure later that day. Guests on the Disney Dream can also enjoy a quick breakfast at Cabanas before they depart, but we do prefer the table service options for something low-key and to say one last goodbye to our amazing Disney Dream servers.Have you been on the Disney Cruise Line? What did you think of the Debarkation breakfast options?
Be Our Guest Restaurant -- Lunch -- Quick Service -- Magic Kingdom
*This gluten free dining experience took place in June 2018.
Lunch at Be Our Guest Restaurant
Be Our Guest Restaurant is a restaurant in Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom that serves both quick service breakfast and lunch and table service dinner. I haven't eaten lunch at Be Our Guest Restaurant since 2013, so it's been a very very long time. Recently, we asked you, the readers, what quick service restaurant we should eat lunch or dinner at, and Be Our Guest was the most requested. So, given how long it had been and your requests, we had to go! Brandon has also never eaten at Be Our Guest for any meal, so he was looking forward to checking it out too.
Atmosphere
When it comes to a well-themed restaurant, Be Our Guest is definitely one of the best. From the moment you arrive, you'll feel like you're transported to the Beast's Castle with Belle.
If you do have the time, I highly recommend taking a moment to look around at the exterior of the restaurant. There's so many beautiful touches and great photo opportunities.
I love everything about all the details and theme, including these amazing beast busts built into the outside lighting fixtures.
There are three dining rooms in Be Our Guest -- each with a distinct and unique theme. The first is the main ballroom. From the gorgeous chandeliers to the impressive floor to ceiling windows that make it look like it's snowing outside, this is definitely the definition of grand ballroom.This room also has the most seating, which is helpful if you're eating lunch here on a busy day.
The second room is where we ate -- the Rose Gallery. This is a smaller but equally impressive room. There are lovely paintings of Belle and the Beast and even a large music box style scene of Belle and the Beast dancing that actually moves.
The third and final room is the West Wing. This room is well themed and detailed, that it is a must visit anytime you're at Be Our Guest Restaurant. I've never been able to dine in here because it's so popular. But, it's definitely worth taking a quick peek into just for the theming.Pro Tip if you have children. This room is both dark and can be a bit scary. If you have children who might get scared by this, I would probably avoid visiting or dining in this space (and would request to not be seated there during dinner).
The Food
Of course, we were at Be Our Guest Restaurant, not just for the theme, but the food! This restaurant does not include an allergy-friendly lunch menu. That's because guests typically order meals from a self-serve kiosk. These kiosks will let you add your special dietary need to the selection and automatically tell you what you might be able to order. This can be handy if you have a common or single special dietary need, but not in other cases (or if you have questions). So, definitely speak to a cast member if you want to talk to a chef or manager.On our visit, a cast member directed us to stations typically used for mobile ordering. Because it was so busy, the cast members there assisted us with the ordering and did let me look at their ordering screen to determine the options. As it turns out, everything Brandon wanted was also available as a gluten free option, so we ended up making our entire order gluten free so that we could try multiple dishes.Once we placed our order, we then found seats in the Rose Gallery and waited for our food to arrive. I was at the drink station when the food arrived. But Brandon noted that the manager was actually with several cast members to ensure that everything arrived safely and was gluten free.
The first dish we ordered was the French Onion Soup. This dish can be made gluten free by omitting the bread/croutons. It was also listed as a vegetarian option, and I have heard mixed reports as to whether this is a vegetable stock base or beef broth based soup.Both Brandon and I thought this soup was the better of the two soups we tried. It was also insanely cheesy. So, if you enjoy cheesy French Onion soup, you'll be very happy with this option.
The next item we ordered was the Potato Leek Soup. This dish is marked gluten free on the menu and does contain dairy. Both Brandon and I liked this soup a lot. But, the French Onion was hard to top. We would recommend ordering this soup, especially if you're not a fan of French Onion or want a soup that isn't as filling.
For entrees, we ordered two. The first was the Braised Pork (Coq Au Vin Style) which included Eight Hour Slow-cooked Pork with Mushrooms, Onions, Carrots and Bacon served with Mashed Potatoes and Green Bean Jardiniere. This dish can be made gluten free by omitting the gravy but does contain dairy.Both Brandon and I thought this was the better of the two entrees. The pork was extremely tender and flavorful, and the mashed potatoes were also very good. I actually loved the green beans with onions and peppers and ate a good amount of them. Brandon is not a green bean fan, and even he liked them when combined with the pork and mashed potatoes. We both agreed we would not hesitate to order this again.
The second entree we ordered was the Carved Turkey Sandwich served warm on a Millet Chia gluten free bread with Dijon Mayonnaise and Pommes Frites. This dish is both gluten free and dairy free. Both Brandon and I thought this was a solid lunch option and a huge portion -- perfect for sharing. The turkey was actually proper real hand carved turkey -- not deli turkey. The millet chia bread (which is from Udi's Gluten Free) was quite tasty and paired well with the turkey, Dijon mayonnaise and arugula on the sandwich. The only real bummer from this entree were the French fries which seemed lukewarm by the time they got to our table.Though we both preferred the pork, we would also order the turkey again. Plus, it's a great option for guests who are gluten free and dairy free.
And, finally, we had to order the Lemon - Raspberry Cream Puff which is gluten free. Unfortunately, this does contain dairy. But, I've heard you can get sorbet at Be Our Guest too.I should have known better ordering this, as it is a gluten free and no-sugar added dessert, and I do not typically think those two combinations mix well. Even though I love lemon, this dessert was super dry and had a weird flavor. I can guess it was due to the sugar free substitutes used in the cream puff. What a bummer and a missed opportunity, to make a decadent and fantastic gluten free cream puff!I have to admit that I do not like sugar substitutes or no sugar added desserts typically and have not usually enjoyed the ones I've tried at Disney. Next time we'll skip the dessert and get one elsewhere. However, I've heard lots of guests rave about this cream puff, so if you think you might like it, I would say give it a try. It's just not something I personally enjoyed.
As you can see from this photo, we had a TON of food! We definitely over-ordered for lunch (even a late one at around 2 p.m.) and were full for the rest of the day. Next time we would skip the dessert and maybe share a soup and split two entrees.
Overall
We were pleasantly surprised by the lunch we had at Be Our Guest Restaurant. It's not a location we'd dine at all the time. But, it's nice for something completely different than traditional quick service in the park. We both thought the soups and entrees were quite good and moderately priced. My only negative would be that some of our food wasn't as warm as other dishes. But, this may also have been due to the timing and special dietary needs requests. But, this wouldn't deter us from going again. With great theming and a ton of gluten free options (and some dairy free options), we will definitely go back sooner than 4 years now!Have you been to Be Our Guest Restaurant? What did you order when you dined here?
Yak & Yeti -- Dinner -- Table Service -- Animal Kingdom
*This dining experience took place in May 2018.
Dinner at Yak & Yeti
Yak & Yeti is a table service restaurant located in Disney's Animal Kingdom theme park. Back in April before we went to the DVC Moonlight Magic we had dinner with Brandon's mom at Yak & Yeti. This restaurant isn't owned and operated by Disney, but by Landry's. Brandon's family are members of the Landry's Select Club which offers priority seating and rewards, and we ended up signing up that night for the membership. Since we had a $25 reward to use from signing up, we decided to get dinner one night at the Yak & Yeti to use it.
Atmosphere
The theming for Yak & Yeti is quite lovely. It really fits in well in the Asia section of the Animal Kingdom.
Both the food and the decor reflect Asian cultures, and we were told by cast members that much of the decor is authentic from Asian countries.
On our previous visits, we have always dined upstairs on the second floor of the restaurant. On this visit, we were seating in the back corner of the first floor. It was nice to have a different seat and check out some theming and decor we'd never seen before.
I absolutely love this quote and Bollywood movie posters that were on the wall near our table. It adds such a fun touch and gives the restaurant even more back story to its theme.
There is definitely a lot to look at in the restaurant, and I would encourage you to wander a bit, if you have the time.
The Food
Having been to Yak & Yeti recently, I knew that the restaurant offered a "gluten sensitive" menu but that a chef would also come speak with me. On this visit, I was given the menu and asked if I wanted to speak to a chef or just order off the menu directly. I'm glad that I spoke with a chef, as I learned that the menu does not necessarily list items that are celiac safe.When the chef came to our table, I mentioned I was interested in the burger listed on the gluten sensitive menu. He said the fries were not safe for guests with celiac disease and that the burger would be served plain, as the regular menu toppings could not be made gluten free. I was a bit taken aback by this and did ask what the point of having them listed on a menu was. The chef's only response was that this is a gluten sensitive menu and not a gluten free menu. This is very disappointing to see that, especially since the chefs who have assisted me at the restaurant seemed to understand the need for safety. Personally, I'd rather they just get rid of the menu and come talk guests directly instead, since the menu really isn't meant for most of the people who might use it.
Since the burger was not a great option, the chef recommended to me several items, including the Malaysian Seafood Curry which was not on the gluten sensitive menu. He said this is a naturally gluten free and dairy free dish. So, I opted to order this.I have to say that of the menu items I've tried at Yak & Yeti, this has been my favorite. The dish was super flavorful and packed full of seafood. It was also a huge portion. I definitely didn't leave hungry. It wasn't super spicy either, so if spice is a concern, you'll find this red curry dish to be quite flavorful and mild. I'd definitely order this again.
Overall
Despite the issues with the gluten sensitive menu, I really enjoyed my meal at Yak & Yeti. I do think there are better options in the park, but having the Landry's Select Club card means it's an easy spot to have a meal without a reservation at the last minute (which is great for us as locals). Thankfully, I have not had any issues with the food I've ordered here, and I've always been able to speak to a chef on each visit. I would recommend if you have celiac disease or allergies to ask to speak to a chef prior to ordering to ensure safety and not order directly from any special diets menus, like the gluten sensitive one they are currently offering.Have you been to Yak & Yeti Restaurant? What was your overall experience?
Backlot Express -- Dinner -- Quick Service -- Hollywood Studios
*This dining experience took place in May 2018.
Dinner at Backlot Express
Backlot Express is probably the quick service restaurant in Hollywood Studios that we eat most at. With both burgers and allergy-friendly chicken tenders available, we like the easy options and price point when we're in the park. Plus, it has ample seating that includes indoor seating -- perfect for rainy days or hot summer days too. On this particular occasion, we stopped by Backlot Express for dinner during a random trip to Hollywood Studios one evening.
Atmosphere
At first glance, Backlot Express doesn't seem all that well themed. But, if you take a look around, you'll find that it really represents the "backlot" feel of a working studio shop.
We usually find seats near the far right (if you're looking at the entrance view) nearest Star Tours. We have found the seating in this area to be a bit tucked away and a bit quieter than other areas of the restaurant.
If you have some time, definitely check out the signs and decor in the restaurant seating area. It really does look like a backlot office area -- complete with safety notes too.
My favorite view is this little office area. So many cool touches and nods to all that goes into creating movie and TV sets.
The Food
Backlot Express does carry an allergy-friendly lunch and dinner menu. Typically, we order the allergy-friendly chicken tenders when we eat at Backlot Express. On this occasion, we encountered something new about ordering the chicken tenders. The cast member at the register asked if we wanted 5 or 10 piece chicken tenders, noting that this really meant we'd be getting 3 or 5 chicken tenders versus 5 or 10 chicken nuggets.This was the first time we've ever encountered this at any quick service restaurant ordering allergy-friendly chicken tenders and did double-check to make sure she was marking our chicken tenders as gluten free. She said that they had recently adjusted their ordering system for special diets (typically labeled SDM on the cash register computers) and that this was how the new system worked. We both asked for the larger portion, hoping that this wasn't going to be too much food.
When the manager arrived with our orders of Allergy-Friendly Chicken Tenders and French Fries, which are gluten free, dairy free, egg free, peanut/tree nut free, and fish/shellfish free, we both were glad we ordered the "larger" portion. Both of us were still a bit confused by the whole experience of ordering but glad that the chicken tenders were the ones normally served and that nothing else was out of the ordinary.
Overall
Backlot Express is a solid quick service option for those who prefer classic theme park foods like chicken tenders and burgers. Add in ample seating, and you have an ideal quick service option in Hollywood Studios. Though we both like other options like ABC Commissary, Backlot Express is always a good bet.Have you been to Backlot Express? What do you order when you dine there?
Palo -- Brunch -- Disney Dream
*This gluten free dining experience took place in May 2018.
Brunch at Palo
Palo located on Deck 13 of the Disney Dream is one of the two adults only restaurants on the ship. Palo offers dinner daily and on select days offers brunch. The last time I was on the Disney Dream back in 2014 for a 3-day cruise, they didn't offer brunch at Palo. So, I was thrilled to hear that Disney has been offering brunch on 3-day cruises when you're docked in Nassau. Brunch just might be one of my favorite meals, so I knew we had to book it. Brunch is typically offered from 10 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., and I made our reservation for 10 a.m. so that we could enjoy a leisurely brunch.
Atmosphere
Having had dinner at Palo on the last cruise I went on, I knew that it was a beautifully decorated restaurant. But, the vibe totally changes from day time to evening, and I was really wowed by how bright and inviting Palo is during the day.
Palo means "pole" in Italian. And, that fits perfectly with the theme of the restaurant which is inspired by Venice. The version of Palo on the Disney Dream is set to resemble a Venetian waterfront, and you'll find examples of poles inspired by the classic gondolas throughout the restaurant.
When you first walk through the Palo entrance, you'll notice a beautiful chandelier above. This glass chandelier is actually made to look like different types of pasta and sauces you'll find in classic Northern Italian fare. It's quite stunning, and I highly recommended stopping to look at it a bit more closely.
As we learned from our server Corinne and later when we went on the Art of the Theme tour, Palo is expertly themed from the artwork to the chairs and everything in between.
Even the metal artwork near the seating area is inspired by Venice.
Palo has plenty of seating for all sizes of groups and seating preferences. Whether you prefer a cozy booth, a seat in the back, or a close-up view outside, you'll find it at Palo.
On our visit, we had a lovely window seat. If you're having dinner at Palo or brunch during a day at sea, you'll have spectacular views of the ocean. Since we were dining while docked in Nassau, we didn't really have a great view (it looked out onto the Carnival ship docked next to us), but we still enjoyed the brightly lit restaurant and cozy environment.
Hilariously, our server Corinne remarked that we had our very own Gondolier while at Palo, as one of the cast members cleaning windows came by. I have to admit that we both chuckled at this but were also fascinated by the cleaning and repairs that happen while docked.
The Food
Of course, the best part of Palo brunch is the food. Having dined here for dinner back in 2014, I knew that the food was going to be quite good, so I was looking forward to all the options.
Before Corinne went over the meal options and brought out the chef, she brought us each a Mimosa (orange juice and champagne) to start out brunch.
I also ordered an unsweetened iced tea, and was super excited to see that the tea was served with iced tea cubes. This is perfect for those who love tea but don't like that their tea gets diluted by regular water ice cubes melting. Talk about a nice touch!
After getting our drinks, the chef (whose name I forgot to write down), walked both Brandon and I through the buffet. Since Brandon is allergic to fish and shellfish, the chef advised him what he could and could not eat, in addition to walking me through the buffet. One of the things I liked most about the buffet is that there were several tables with food sections. For instance, their was an entire seafood table that Brandon avoided, while I avoided the pastry / bread table.The chef also offered to bring me a plate of food from the kitchen if I preferred, and he also noted that when I was ready for dessert he would bring me a plate from the kitchen automatically. He offered to do the same for Brandon as he noted some desserts contained gelatin.
Because I have reintroduced dairy back into my diet, the items I ate at brunch did have a good amount of dairy present. Guests who are dairy free shouldn't worry though, as they have lots of options that are dairy free or can be made dairy free.With the buffet, I ended up getting a good amount of seafood -- much of which was gluten free and dairy free. This included a scallop with fresh tomatoes and basil, crab legs, two different types of seared tuna, bloody Mary shrimp cocktail, and poached shrimp. I also tried prosciutto wrapped melon, several kinds of aged cheese, and caprese salad.Everything I enjoyed on my buffet plate was outstanding. The seafood was super fresh and well prepared. The scallops and seared tuna were definitely my favorites of the seafood options. The other item I liked the most was the caprese salad which was just outstanding and so light and fresh.
In addition to the buffet, Palo also has an a la carte menu with breakfast and lunch offerings. Both the chef and Corinne recommended that I try a few dishes to get a taste of all that Palo had to offer. First up, I ordered the famous Palo Grape and Gorgonzola Pizza. This is made on a gluten free crust (I believe currently Udi's Gluten Free on the Disney Dream). Pizza options are listed on the Palo menu, but this particular combination is not. But, if you ask the culinary team, they can still make it for you.The pizza is such a unique option, that we just had to try it. It is served with a red sauce, mozzarella, Gorgonzola, grapes, and a red wine reduction. Talk about decadent. Both Brandon and I tried this. I liked it a lot; Brandon thought it was just a bit too sweet for his taste. I would definitely get this again, though next time I might ask for it to be a white pizza without the red tomato sauce base, as I think I would have liked it more without it.
The chef also said they can make gluten free (and dairy free) pancakes and waffles. The waffles are typically served as one giant Mickey shaped waffle (you can see a photo of it on Alexis's Gluten Free Adventures). But, I was told that their large waffle maker was down that day. Still, I got to enjoy 2 smaller Allergy-Friendly Mickey Waffles topped with powdered sugar and 100% pure maple syrup. I also had the option of ordering strawberry sauce or apple cinnamon sauce.These tasted just about identical to the versions of allergy-friendly Mickey waffles at Disney World and, I believe, were made using Namaste Pancake & Waffle Mix. They were nice and crispy and super tasty, and I would definitely order these again at Palo brunch. Hopefully, next time we go, they'll have the big Allergy-Friendly Mickey waffle maker working again!
Although I did not ask for it, our server Corinne insisted I try a gluten free pasta, since we were in an Italian restaurant. She ended up bringing me Gluten Free Pasta with Smoked Salmon, Baby Spinach, Tarragon, Cracked Black Pepper, and a Cream Sauce. I didn't eat a ton of this, but I did try it. If you like seafood, it was quite good. It's not a dish I'd probably order again, but I was glad to try it.
As you can see from this photo of our table, Corinne made sure we did not go hungry. In fact, we were both just plain stuffed by the end of the brunch. I really appreciated that she encouraged us to try lots of dishes, but next time we'll definitely reduce the amount of items we order!
As if I could even eat another bite, Corinne brought out a plate of desserts for me from the chef. Three of the four desserts on the plate contained dairy, so if you're dairy free, be sure to ask for other options. The gluten free and dairy free dessert on my plate was a champagne gelatin with fruit. It was actually my least favorite of the desserts (I tried a bite of all of them), as I did not like the gelatin texture. But, I'm super glad that it was an option and something that was nice and light compared to the other desserts.The desserts included an espresso mousse (far left), vanilla panna cotta with mango, blueberries, and strawberries (center), and a raspberry mousse (far right). Every single one of these were very good. The panna cotta was probably my favorite with the raspberry mousse a close second. The espresso mousse was also very good and perfect for anyone who loves coffee.
Overall
Both Brandon and I absolutely loved the brunch at Palo. We really enjoyed that it included both a cold buffet and a la carte options. The cold buffet was super high quality with lots of options for any preference or special dietary need. We also found the a la carte options to include unique dishes that we might not have otherwise tried (Brandon enjoyed celery soup and artichoke ravioli -- both of which he would not typically order) and classic brunch favorites. Brunch also gave us a chance to enjoy Palo without missing out on our regular rotational dinner too.The atmosphere in Palo at brunch is so relaxing and our server Corinne was so great, that it made for a wonderful experience that we're both still raving about even after the trip. We wouldn't hesitate to book brunch again, though we both agreed that we want to go to Palo for dinner on our next cruise.Have you been to Palo for brunch or dinner? What did you think of the options available to special dietary needs guests?