Anyone who has been to Disney knows not to expect gastronomic delights from their restaurants but I had high hopes because if anyone could shake up Disney’s commitment to supersized bland food, it would be le French! But alas…
Located in Downtown Disney, The Steakhouse has a Chicago mob feel with exposed brick and extensive wood trim. The brick has an old, worn look that harkens another time when jazz played loudly in the streets and all anybody ever wanted was a great steak and a large mug of red wine. But, unfortunately, that Chicago-steakhouse feeling was fleeting. They cranked up the lighting so it felt more prison canteen than steakhouse and the music was 1980’s pop – think Celine Dion, played far too loudly. It felt more like we were in an experiment than a fine dining establishment. Watch mom – see how long it takes her to snap! The food was expensive and mediocre, the wine was offered in what seemed like a shot glass with a stem and we skipped dessert because my sanity meant more to me than a scoop of ice-cream.
Located in the Park, The Lucky Nugget Saloon was a pleasant surprize. The food was passable, the service insanely fast and the atmosphere was very old school country and western. If you like ribs and chicken and no-nonsense service, this is your place. We liked it so much that we went twice and happened to catch the mid-day show the second time.
If you are looking for a restaurant to put on your make-up, find waldo or be in a perpetual spot-light, this is your place. The lighting was extremely bright. Thankfully, the music wasn’t noticeable, and the food was pretty Disney standard (for an over-priced buffet). I think everyone that didn’t book ahead of time ended up at this restaurant. It was in our hotel – The Newport Beach Hotel – so it was convenient.
If you are looking for cheap and cheerful, you have found your spot. The Castle has traditional wait service and relatively affordable food. The huge statue of King Ludwig on his horse is oddly impressive. Perfect place for families.
You can only eat American style food for so long so I convinced the kids to try some middle eastern food. It was amazing to see so many vegetables and so little fried food. Visually, it was a delight, but unfortunately, it all had that little splash of bland Disney likes to inject in all their food. At least it was a splash, not a douse.
France Escape 