So, for our upcoming trip, we have three times in parks…two are for parties, and one is dedicated to Epcot Festival of the Holidays. But we have lots of time this trip where we are just meandering OUTSIDE the parks.
So, this leads me to wonder what are some off the beaten path (meaning, not in a park) places you like to hit. It could be just for that ONE singular food item, or just generally good food worth checking out at a specific resort.
For example, we all know about beignets at POFQ.
We have some ideas in mind, but curious to hear what others look forward to. (To be clear, I am not talking about character experiences or even necessarily table service, but also not just limited to snacks or desserts.)
I agree! Sorry if I wasn’t clear…I was focusing on food related stuff for this topic, to keep things a little focused. But we did a visit to AKL our last trip to check it out in general!
Thanks for the suggestions! So, one of our days we are going to play a bit if transportation roulette, and see where the wind takes us. It is nice to have some specific ideas at various resorts in case we land there! Geyser Point is a place that has intrigued me in the past. We definitely want to hit up WL for the Christmas decor!
I travel solo so usually stick with appetizers. I believe the menu changes frequently. These are the ones on the current menu that I recall having (or something similar, I haven’t been since May 2024 when I was with friends) and loving, but to note, I’ve never had anything I didn’t love:
Cono de Salmón y Huevos de Trucha - Cone of salmon tartar with trout roe
Cono de atún y aguacate - Cone of Tuna tartare, avocado mousse and sesame seeds
Ensalada de aguacate y mojo verde - “Spanish Diner” Avocado, mojo verde and goat cheese salad
I think I had the Seabass in May, but don’t recall if it was the one listed on this menu.
I don’t recall what I/we had for dessert. Nothing on the menu looks familiar.
If it’s a pleasant afternoon, finding an open seating area along the walkway, facing the lake, is pretty nice. I liked my food there - possibly crab cakes.
I didn’t care for Territory Lounge ambiance (small) or food tho your mileage may vary.
We try to fit in Crocketts at least for a beverage while rocking in a chair every trip. With the change in Trail’s End Kitchen we may try there as well. Tho it used to be one of our favorite places to eat so my hopes aren’t up, much.
One of my favorite breakfasts outside of the parks has been in Sanaa. Many people don’t seem to know that it has QS style breakfast dishes (including a whipped chai French toast), which you order and pay at the cashier before grabbing a table by the large savanna picture windows. There’s food out for the animals at that time so it’s a great animal viewing opportunity with delicious breakfast options.
Another memorable food item was the 15-layer chocolate cake at SH71 inside the Contemporary. You can get it in the bar/lounge if you want. Divine. Definitely plan to share.
More and more I find that, while I definitely want to partake in the attractions offerings while at WDW, I am at the stage in life - with (mostly) grown children and no grandchildren on the horizon (I am more than okay with this) - where I want to relax and enjoy my vacation in nice spaces, eating nice food, drinking nice cocktails, and fully immersing myself in the bubble that insulates me from the real world which is crazier by the minute.
To that end, my goals are tranquil spots. Looking only at those spots outside of the parks:
Resort Lounges - especially Victoria Falls, Bar Riva and Topolino, Ale & Compass Lounge, Three Bridges, and Geyser Point. Bonus points for those on this list that are open air and/or with amazing views.
Lagoon or lakeside seating of any kind - adirondack or hammock - to watch the water/vessels/sunrise/sunset. Kind of romantic-ish sometimes.
Golf - sure it can be frustrating as hell, but aside from baseball I don’t know that there’s a prettier sport out there.
Specific food or drink:
Cali Grill Bar - braised beef wontons. The only space you can get them in. Not available on the restaurant menu.
I know there’s more…