Capt. Cook's Dining Review

It's been quite a while since we posted an updated review on Capt. Cook's (see 2012 review here).  We decided to check out the remodeled Capt. Cook's since it just reopened.

After a long ride on Disney Park Transportation, we were really happy to sink into some cozy seating. I decided to try something different this time around. I chose the Chicken and Waffles featuring crispy buffalo chicken fritters on a waffle with romaine and ranch dressing (Buffalo sauce on the side). Gus ordered the famous Pulled Pork Nachos topped with Onions, Cheese, Spicy Mayo, Tomatoes, and Pineapple Salsa.

We picked out a spot and took in some of the tropical feel of the room. Warm wood and banana tree leaves add warmth to the room. The textured walls and Polynesian type markings accent the space beautifully. 

We tried the pork nachos and were instantly disappointed. The toppings were cold and the chips were tough and inedible. Gus went back and asked for fresh plate. Within 5 minutes or so, he was given the new plate, but it did not help. The dish did not compare to the awesome pork nacho found in Miami. The pork had little to no seasoning.  The nachos were bland.

This was a photo of the first batch.

I was also disappointed with my chicken and waffles.  The waffle was dry and the chicken rubbery.

If we weren't so hungry, we would have left and tried out one of the other locations upstairs.

To add insult to injury, the food did not sit well with me and ended up causing us to cancel the rest of our plans for the day (getting sick at Disney stinks period.)

An Evening at the Boardwalk Resort

Have you ever explored the Boardwalk Resort at Disney World?

We have always heard that the food options at the Boardwalk Resort are terrific. Upon arriving, we immediately began to explore our food options. My husband decided that he wanted to try some Pizza from the Pizza Window next to Kouzzina by Cat Cora. 

I, decided to try some treats from The To-Go Cart. With different classic flavors of some American favorites (I thought it was like going to the county fair), what's not to love!

I got a Pulled Pork Sandwich, Onion Rings, and a Chili Cheese Dog. The Onion Rings were the best tasting out of all the choices. 

After walking around and checking out the  entertainment, we decided to try the Funnel Cake Cart. What was a night out without dessert?

We felt like a pair of excited kids in a candy store! The funnel cake was absolutely delicious. We had the choice of numerous toppings.  We decided to try chocolate syrup drizzled on top with a block of Vanilla ice cream.

Looks delicious doesn't it?!

After a fun dinner on the go, we headed off to the other side of Crescent Lake to explore more of The Boardwalk Resort!

This side of the resort is close to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.  As a special perk, you are able to watch the fireworks from here! We also strolled over to the back entrance of EPCOT. The delightful sounds of the Italian Pavilion filled the air. It was possibly the first time I had ever heard the soundtrack for this area.  

Panorama of the Boardwalk Resort from the Boat Launch in the middle of Crescent Lake.

We recommend you take a stroll and explore the Boardwalk Resort if you find yourself with a night available during your next action packed trip to Walt Disney World.

Chef Mickeys

Chef Mickey's is the quintessential character meal at Walt Disney World. 

Narcoosees at The Grand Floridian

Narcoosee's is a signature dining experience located at Walt Disney World's Grand Floridian Resort. 

Ohana means Family (as in Family-Style Dining)!

Your Disney What to Wear: Signature Dining

When booking a meal at one of the great signature dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort one of the things to consider besides the amazing meal you are going to have is dress code.  

There are 10 official signature dining locations with dress codes:

1.  Artist Point at Wilderness Lodge
2.  California Grill at the Contemporary
3.  Citricos at the Grand Floridian Resort
4.  Flying Fish at the Boardwalk
5.  Il Molino New York Trattoria at the Swan
6.  Jiko at Animal Kingdom Lodge
7.  Narcoossee’s at the Grand Floridian Resort
8.  Shula’s Steakhouse at the Dolphin
9.  Todd English’s Bluezoo at the Dolphin
10.  Yachtsman Steakhouse at the Yacht Club Resort

The official dress code from Disney:
“Men: Khakis, slacks, jeans, dress shorts, collared shirts. Sport coats are optional.
Ladies: Capris, skirts, dresses, jeans, dress shorts.
Not permitted in dining room: Tank tops, swimwear, hats for gentleman, cut offs, or torn clothing. While T-shirts are now allowed, the policy remains that T-shirts with offensive language or graphics are not acceptable.”

I have dined at a handful of this restaurants and found people dressed below dress code but I think part of the fun of these amazing meals is the dressing up for a night out so you may as well enjoy it.  

A few things to consider, however:

1.  Women should consider wearing a lighter top with a cardigan over it or to carry with as the restaurants can get cold.

2.  If you are dining at Victoria & Albert's the dress code is more formal and men must wear jackets. 

3.  If you are planning to go from your restaurant into a park this is a perfect opportunity for DisneyBounding! Check out this Anna inspired look that would be perfect for a romantic dinner date:

4.  Remember, even though as far as Disney Dining Plan/Price/Menu is concerned both Le Cellier in Epcot's Canada pavillion and Hollywood Studios' Hollywood Brown Derby are signature dining experiences both adhere to the normal casual dress code throughout the parks.  Additionally, dinner shows and experiences like Cinderella's Royal Table, Hoop de Due Revue, Mickey's Backyard BBQ, and the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show that take 2 table service credits and are more expensive do not currently have required dress codes.  

  

New Walt Disney World Offers for 2014!!

Two great ways to save in 2014 at Walt Disney World:

Stay, Play and Dine
Discounts room, tickets and dining plan..must have tickets for length of stay to get that portion discounted (for example - staying 4 days/3 nights must have 4 day ticket..etc)
For Most Stays January 5-March 5 2014
3 Night Minimum Stay Required
Excluded: ALL OF ART OF ANIMATION, Grand Floridian Villas and Campsites

ROOM ONLY DISCOUNT
Jan 5-April 12 2014
Values 15% off, Moderates 20% off, Deluxe 30% off, Deluxe Villas 35% off
Excluded Little Mermaid Rooms. Grand Floridian Villas and Campsites

For your no obligation quote, email me today! AmandaL@mickeytoday.com

Full Moon over Bay Lake

The beautiful full moon made its debut just as we were leaving dinner at Narcoosee's our last trip and with the sun having just set and the beautiful dusk colors still painting the sky I was mesmerized by this awesome view of the Contemporary.

Everything You Need to Know if you're Staying at the Poly in 2013

The Polynesian is arguably the most beautiful of Disney World Resort hotels, but it is currently undergoing some huge resort renovations that, without the most up to date info, may lead you to losing a little magic during your trip! First and foremost only two buildings are re-opened and freshly renovated (many of the longhouses which have not been renovated yet still remain open).  The two renovated ones are Hawaii and Samoa longhouses.  We recently stayed in the Samoa building during Spring Break (the week leading up to Easter) and it had JUST reopened... but more importantly was that there were renovations currently going on in TWO other buildings! Rarotonga and Niue are currently closed for renovations.  If you are looking at a map this means they started with Hawaii and followed right around the pools in their renovations.  The castmember checking us in also let us know that Tokelau is next! I think it would be safe at this point to assume they may continue to the east of Great Cermonial House and renovate Rapa Nui and Tahiti once Tokelau is done. 

So what does that mean for travelers? If it were me and I wanted to ensure I got a new room and did not have to walk through unsightly construction going on (the workers will likely enter and exit the premises with supplies out into the parking lot along side Rapa Nui) I would request SAMOA.

Samoa was a great location, nice proximity to the pool, beach, and Great Ceremonial House.  Additionally, there are still four longhouses over on the Luau Cove side of the resort and a rumor that the Poly mind build DVC space.  I HIGHLY recommend that if you are staying at the Polynesian this year prior to your room request in online check-in you call the hotel directly and ask which longhouses are currently renovated and under construction so you can plot out a way to avoid the wrong areas and request the right ones!  Anyone staying at the Poly should also know that this is one of the most convienent and luxurious resorts.  Not only can you hop right on a monorail to travel to Magic Kingdom but you can walk out to Ticket and Transportation Center (or monorail over) and head into Epcot! Additionally, one of the only 24 hour quick service stops is located here.  You can't get hot food 24 hours a day but you can find great refrigerated choices like sushi from Kona and salad & sandwiches.

All visitors to the Poly should make plans to eat at one of their three table service locations (I recommend all three!).  Kona Cafe and Ohana are both located upstairs in the Great Ceremonial House and serve great dinners.  I prefer Ohana for the breakfast with Lilo, Stitch, and Mickey, however! Also, if you are on a budget you can get some of the Kona breakfast favorites (like Tonga Toast) at the quick service location, Capt. Cook's! Luau Cove is home to the last dining location, a dinner show called Spirit of Aloha- in the spirit of luaus that can be found all over the 50th state! :)

Also, be sure not to miss some time wandering around the resort. The lush beautiful flora and tropical scents and touches are relaxing enough to be a vacation unto themselves.  The beach is beautiful even if just for a short walk or to take in Wishes after a long day.  I am a huge fan of this resort.  After we stayed here in 2011, I could not wait to come back.  At other resorts I have had a great time, truly enjoyed my trip, but was ready to try the next locale.  Here at the Poly I feel like I could escape into the tropical oasis for days! I love the torches at night and the music, I love the shops and the tiki carvings, I love the hidden mickeys and the room theming (both new and old are wonderful)!  If you are planning a trip here and have any questions, feel free to ask and I will answer as best as I can (or post some more pictures to help you envision your upcoming vacation)!

Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show

Our first trip staying at the Poly was in February 2011 and I wasn't really sure whether we would want to commit time to the dinner show so I put it on the back burner.  When we decided to go back I knew I wanted to get this show in because I loved the culture surrounding the resort.  The show starts with the premise that Lelaini is going to college.  The community surprises her and they create an interactive show celebrating her and showcasing some amazing Polynesian dances.

(They even have a birthday hula- that me in the black shirt in the back row towards the left!)

And perhaps the part that was stuck in our heads the most- the integration of some Lilo and Stitch songs! We were singing Hawaiian Rollercoaster Ride for the rest of our trip! I think if you are staying at the Poly this is a must for a nice way to enjoy your hotel grounds and get the most of the resort.  If you can't afford the Poly but want to be immersed in island culture this is also a great choice! The food is served family style and is pretty good (plus there were beer and wines included on the menu without having to pay extra) but its the entertainment that makes this worth every penny.

Prices currently run for Adults $58.99-$73.99 and Children $29.99-$39.99 depending on what category you choose.  We were in Category 1 which is closest to the stage and for the show during Spring Break we booked about 4 months in advance but you can book up to 180 days out.

Happy Weekend! :)

Let's all Disney dream together for a moment and have a nice virtual Dole Whip from Capt. Cook's and enjoy this view of the castle from the beach at the Polynesian together. :)

Show me a sign!

I love everything about the Poly right down to the retro polynesian style of the signs.  Theres something extra magical about knowing a resort has been open since the beginning. 

Mischief Managed

Do you know where in Walt Disney World you can find Louie (my favorite of the triplet nephews) hanging from the ceiling? I'll give you a hint: he's hanging out at one of the resort hotels!

Boardwalk Arcade

Looking for a great no park day? Head over to Boardwalk! Its great to take in all the sites, sounds, and shops here on the Boardwalk on an arrival or departure day... or a day you just feel like taking it slow and enjoying your family.

Wish I Were Here! Fall 2011 Trip Report: Day 4

The last day is always bittersweet but we were a determined crew and we had had weeks worth of adventures in just a few days! We woke up, packed up, and headed right out to Epcot.  We started with breakfast at Sunshine Seasons.  This was my first time eating here and it was very yummy!

We hadn't gotten to ride everything we had wanted to in Epcot since we had been so distracted by the delicious food and drink in our previous visits.  We grabbed fast passes for Soarin immediately, hit up Living with the Land (a favorite for all 4 of us) and rode Spaceship Earth and then came back to redeem. Next stop was the Imagination and Seas pavillions.  Even though we had stoppped at both previously in the trip I can't get enough of Figment and Nemo! :)

We headed back through World Showcase come lunchtime and grabbed our Food & Wine faves-- more beer, Fisherman's Pie and Shrimp Tacos! We used our remaining counterservice for some fish and chips in the UK and split what was left.  We stopped for a big ole shop at Mouse Gears and then slowly made our way back to the Boardwalk.

We had left our bags with Bell Services and said a slow, sad goodbye to the Showplace at the Shore as we headed out to the rental car.  We reminisced about our adventures on the way home and were at Orlando International Airport around 6:30pm for our 7 o'clock flights.

Annnnd home again we went.

Wish I Were Here! Fall 2011 Trip Report: Day 3

Our 3rd day brought us to Disney Hollywood Studios for my first visit ever to the Hollywood Tower Hotel!!!

As always on vacation, I was the first one up.  I sneaked out onto our balcony and enjoyed a bottle of water and filled out my Passporter (I am a crazy scrapbooker and love to save maps and reciepts and tickets and such.  Passporters are great for that.  Plus I like to jot down things I remember so I can refresh my memory later- quotes and stories and general awesomeness).  I enjoyed seeing the light stretch out across the Boardwalk resort.  I snuck back in and got dressed and then contemplated grabbing a coffee to watch the rest of the resort wake up.  After everyone started waking up since I stopped at the gift shop, I don't remember what I went looking for but I came back with a sweet Boardwalk refill cup for me to use at work and a double shooter for my husband that has Goofy on it lifting up a barbell and says "I'm no dumb bell" LOL!

We all geekily put on Mickey Mouse shirts and headed over to the park by way of the boat launch at the Boardwalk.  It was drizzling again or we would have walked, its a longer walk but a nice one.

Once we arrived at the park we grabbed Fast Passes for Rock N Rollercoaster and then went over to Tower of Terror.  Since I have never ridden and it was a 10 minute wait it worked out perfect!  The boys grabbed breakfast at Sunset Market and the girls headed off to Tower of Terror.  It was everything I hope and more!!!!

We headed around the park and took advantage of all the under 15 minute waits including Great Movie Ride and Star Tours.  Then we redeemed our FPs before lunch!

We grabbed lunch at ABC Commissary which is a personal favorite and then finished our rounds in the park.  We walked back around towards Backlot Tour and then worked our way up through Streets of America.  We planned to go to Magic Kingdom for EMH after dinner and decided to park hop right over and get some fast passes first.  We hopped on the train since Donal's leg was hurting him and decided to ride Big Thunder Mountain before heading over to Wilderness Lodge.  We made our way to the boat launch, stopping for some shopping along the way and headed over to WCC!

The hotel was great and I have always been turned off to it because for only a small amount more I can stay at a deluxe with monorail or walking paths to major parks.

It was perfect to visit and our meal, although not particularly special since we had to wait quite a while, was delish! We all loved our food and our dessert annnnd while we waited to be seated the front desk was nice enough to print our boarding passes for us for our flight the following evening since we hit the 24 hour mark.  The best park of my meal was the dessert- I had an Apple Caramel Pie and a caramel shake and a cup of tea... lol. I had the Canyon Skillet for dinner which was a bit of a sampler but my husband ate most of mine! lol

After we were done we headed right back over to Magic Kingdom.  We had gotten to spend a lot of time in Fantasyland and Adventureland during the Halloween Party so we went for Tomorrowland this evening, but first stopped at the new (at the time) Mickey meet and greet at Town Square! I was dying to meet Maestro Mickey since I had done the Princess meet and greet here in the Spring! I loved it and the whole party loved our picture!

Once we hit Tomorrowland we got a rare glimpse at Space Mountain with the lights on! We snapped a few pictures and it just cemented my fear of decapitation on that crazy ride! LOL! We caught some of the parade as we looped around the People Mover and we hit the low crowd rides that we could walk on. We looped into Fantasyland and then through Adventureland where me and Daisy enjoyed some Dole Whips.

As the evening started to wind down and the second parade was about to make its round we decided to head out and spend our final evening wandering the Boardwalk.  I snapped a few pictures as we made our way down Main Street USA and secretly told Walt I would be back soon!

Back at the Boardwalk the 4 of us piled into the photobooth and we had a few drinks before retreating to the room.  One last morning, one last afternoon, and we'd be heading home to New York.