Practically Perfect Disneyland
My friends, there is nothing better than being able to go on a ride at Disneyland twice. Without even having to get off. That’s what happened Tuesday when we were there, and Pirates of the Caribbean was somehow deserted. We love, love going to Disneyland when no one is there, and cold weekday in mid-January is just the ticket. Luckily for us, my husband works a non-traditional schedule and my son is not yet in school, so it is easy to do.
The only thing that marred our day (technically 12 rides in about three hours) was the decision to eat at the Cafe Orleans. Now, this used to be a “cafeteria” type of restaurant until they remodeled it and turned it into one with table service. They should have stuck with the original. We were given the choice of eating inside or outside, and even though it was bitter cold, one look at the tables crowded together and the rather ugly interior decorating, we chose outside. Would it kill Disney to invest in some heaters for their outdoor dining?
Then, I paid fourteen dollars for a salad of romaine hearts and chicken where I had to cut everything. So, they made a pretty nice profit off of that, as they had virtually no labor involved in the salad, it was all me. And, as a parent, I have to wonder why at the Dixie Bell my child can get a cheaper meal AND a magic straw, but at this place, the straw was a regular one. Is the little menu-that-turns-into-a hat thingy really supposed to be better?
I am confused as to what exactly the incentive is to eat at this restaurant, where the prices are typical Disney expensive but you have the added expense for a tip, for service which on this day, sucked. I actually kind of dig the self-service kiosks they have at some of the restaraunts, the only annoying thing is when people can’t figure them out.
And, I just have to say that I wish they had the Jedi Training Academy when I was growing up. Getting a padawan robe, a plastic light saber, and actually fighting Darth Vader? Awesome.
One good reason to eat there: you can get a Monte Cristo sandwich when you can’t get into the Blue Bayou.
What a negative letter! They had a choice to eat at the restaurant. Don’t go next time! Geez!
Sheila, don’t worry, I won’t.
Writing about what happens to me (and my opinion about it) is what I do. Kind of the purpose of this blog and all.
Not every experience can be a positive one, and I think I was pretty honest about everything.
But seriously, I do love the Jedi Training Academy.
Some Guy, may I call you Guy?
We noticed that quite a few of the menu items were duplicates of the ones at the Blue Bayou.
Nothing better than Disneyland in January. I’ve had similar experiences in the past. We’ve managed to ride Splash Mountain 4 times in an hour (yes, we had to get off, and run back through the queue to get back on). And getting into line for Space Mountain, only to walk off Star Tours 30 minutes later. Those days are the best.
I sort of like Cafe Orleans when it’s nice outside. The decor inside is a bit tacky. For a bit of trivia those stained glass windows in there are from The Happiest Millionaire , so you know, it’s not totally evil.
As for the menu: My better half and I like to each get a French onion soup and split a 3 cheese monte cristo. Then wash it down with a Mint Julep!
Finally, you said you like the River Bell Terrace, correct? Let’s just say you should visit it sooner rather than later if you are an AP. There are changes afoot.
I know, I called it the Dixie Bell, I don’t know why. But I am fond of their salad and a bread bowl of chowder. Say it ain’t so!
The brother of one of the guys in charge of the whole food thing at DL is a good friend of ours. He got us in to Club 33 for our anniversary a while back. Maybe we need to make another call. ;)
If we can get all of the OC Metrobloggers into Club 33 that would be an awesome post.
Just an idea…
I believe you can find out the details over at Mouse Planet. Last I heard the the project was postponed, but not indefinitely.
As for Club 33, what was you take Gina? Was it all that exciting?