By Disney Bride Diva
As I scanned the suitcase one last time before zipping it up, I made sure I had everything: t-shirts, shorts, flip flops, swimsuits, cocktail dress, suit, dress shoes…wait a minute…cocktail dress, suit and dress shoes for Walt Disney World?
Ah yes, this was the trip my husband and I were going to check Victoria & Albert’s off of our bucket list. We were reminded when we booked our advance dining reservation, (at the 180 day mark) and again one week before via a telephone call of the very strict dress code. Ladies must wear a cocktail dress, pant suit or skirt and blouse while the men must wear a dinner jacket with dress slacks (ties are optional).
This AAA Five Diamond Award winning restaurant is located on the second floor of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. There are three bookable seating options: The Dining Room, Queen Victoria’s Room and the Chef’s Table. Our meal was in the elegantly decorated Dining Room. Diners have a choice of the seven or ten course tasting menu.
When we were first seated we were offered a choice of sparkling or flat water. After asking if there were any food allergies the chef needed to be aware of, our server explained each tasting menu. Whether you choose the seven or ten course meal, each allows for choice of main entree and dessert. There are also additional dishes and a wine pairing option which can be ordered at an added cost. The restaurant is very transparent with their meal and add-on pricing, so diners can make informed decisions and not end up with sticker shock when the check arrives.
My husband and I each chose the seven course menu with different entrees and desserts so we could taste even more of the delicious food! Once we had ordered and were waiting on the first of three different bread services, I was able to sit back and enjoy the harpist sitting in the centre of the room. She played beautiful arrangements of songs ranging from show tunes to the Beatles. With only eighteen tables, the Dining Room is very quiet, but not so quiet that you feel like other diners are listening in on your conversation. The tables are very well spaced apart.
Each course was beautifully presented and described by one of two servers assigned to each table. They detailed each course including the region that various proteins or ingredients were from. It was explained to us that Executive Chef Scott Hunnel has been with Victoria & Albert’s for the past 22 years and his approach to cooking is based on his many years of world travel throughout his career. Let me just say we have been spoiled for life! The food was melt-in-your-mouth delicious and the portion sizes were perfect! The menu changes frequently to take advantage of seasonal flavours.
Seared duck breast with farro and Asian pears.
What really made this restaurant stand out for us were the special touches throughout the meal. I won’t spoil all the magic of this place, but I couldn’t believe when my husband got up to use the restroom and the hostess came by, took away his dirty napkin and replaced it with a new folded one placed over the arm of his chair waiting for his return. The impeccable service at Victoria & Albert’s truly makes this an experience not to be forgotten.
Alaskan halibut with baby artichokes and parmesan foam
While this is probably one of the most expensive meals you will eat at Walt Disney World, I highly recommend it if you are celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself. Guests must be ten years old or above to dine here. This restaurant is very romantic and leads itself to a mature clientele.
Oh, and on a side note; If you have always been mesmerized by science, I encourage you to order tea or coffee at the end of your meal…you won’t be disappointed!
