Orlando’s Magical Dining – in WDW

Orlando’s Magical Dining has finally come to Walt Disney World! Now in its 12th year, more than 100 restaurants are participating. For $35 you receive choices from prix fixe menu. This is a three-course meal starting with an appetizer then a entree and finishing up with dessert.

WDW restaurants include: 

Il Mulino New York Trattoria and Todd English’s bluezoo at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort; Morimoto Asia, Paddlefish and STK Orlando at Disney Springs; and The Wave, The Turf Club, Olivia’s Cafe, Jiko – The Cooking Place, Grand Floridian Cafe and Boatwright’s Dining Hall

The Wave menu:


Joe and I got last-minute reservations to the Wave at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. We were the first Floridians taking advantage of the deal. We were not disappointed! 

The bread is made onsite and is whole grain and delicious. The butter is topped by red Hawiian sea salt. We both started with Mussels. This was so good, I could eat this every day. It’s garlicky but has a hint of citrus. 

Joe went with the seafood. I had some of his scallops and they were so tender and perfectly caramelized. The grouper was a generous size and perfectly cooked. He said it was wonderful and had a little kick.

I had the chicken. It definitely has a kick but the avacado and queso fresco kept it cool. This was truly one of the most flavorful dishes I’ve ever had. The corn mix was my favorite!

We chose the same dessert – chocolate peanut butter cake. It was very rich and almost too big but we both managed to finish every bite!

We walked away full and satisfied and looking forward to our next Magical Dining experience!

The Spirit of Aloha at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

The Spirit of Aloha dinner show is fantastic! We went to the 8:15 pm show. There is also a 6:15 pm seating. Located at the Polynesian Resort, the wonderful venue is nestled in greenery on the path towards the Grand Floridian. 

The island cuisine is served family style and you can request more of all or any part of the meal. This also includes soft drinks and some beer and wines.

The meal begins with a platter of pineapple, salad and noodles. The lime and coconut dressing is tangy and so fresh tasting.

The main meal consists of steamed vegetables, sticky rice, pulled pork, spare ribs and chicken. The meat is not overly sauced but has a little bite. 

The dessert is a pineapple upside down cake. Super moist!

The show is great! It’s very interactive and truly fun for all ages. There is dancing, singing and audience participation. There is familiar music and expected hula and fire dancing. This is all put together in a charming story narrated by Auntie. I’m sure this show updates and will eventually include Moana touches.

Take your time and walk around the Resort. It’s worth a late night stroll. I highly suggest Spirit of Aloha! I would definitely do this again.

Gina