Is Victoria and Albert's worth all the hoopla?

Question

I took my girlfriend at the time to the California Grill instead of Victoria and Albert's, because, well it was much more expensive. I absolutely loved the Cali Grill though. Is Victoria and Albert's worth it? What is it like?

Answer 1

I haven't dined there yet, but I just made reservations for my vacation to Walt Disney World in July. I also enjoyed the California Grill, and Victoria & Albert's is even another step up, so I think it's definitely worth a shot. I've read some really excellent reviews. I mean, it's the only Five Diamond restaurant in central Florida, and there's less than 50 Five Diamond restaurants in the country. Sounds good to me! And the menus look incredible! Not to mention, the restaurant itself is simlpy stunning. However, it is very expensive. You can expect to pay up to $500 for a couple if you include wine pairings with each of your courses. You definitely have to dress up a bit, though, to dine at this restaurant. Men must wear slacks and a jacket (the jacket may be removed while dining) and women must wear dresses or business suits.

I can't wait to dine at Victoria & Albert's, though! I love fine dining. And they even have people to escort the ladies to the restrooms! Make any reservations as soon as possible - I tried to book the Chef's Table, but it's already booked six months in advance for the entire time I'll be there.

Anyway, here's some information about the restaurant...

http://allearsnet.com/menu/menu_va.htm#100506
(Menus)

http://allearsnet.com/reviewpost/showproduct.php?product=180&cat=46
(Reviews)

Hope I could help! If you go, let me know how it was!

Answer 2

It depends completely on your taste. The atmosphere is very nice and the service is top notch. The food is what you'd expect from a 5 diamond restaurant - good, but not much of it.

It's one of those restaurants where once you've tried it once, you don't really need to go back. The dress code is fairly strict as well. Similar to what you'd find at a top notch country club.

For a less expensive, but still romantic dining experience, I recommend the Coral Reef at EPCOT instead. I also recommend the Grand Floridian Cafe and Jiko- The Cooking Place, located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. You'll enjoy a wonderful meal and won't pay out of the nose for it.

And there's nothing wrong with returning to a favorite! The California Grill is swanky, has delicious food, and is reasonable in price. So there's nothing wrong with going back to a place you enjoy.

If you would like help planning for your next trip or if you would just like to read up on some fun tips and ideas that are updated monthly, visit my Disney Vacation Services Website, at:

http://im-all-ears-disney-vacation-services.blogspot.com/

Have a great time!

Answer 3

Victoria & Albert's is one of the best restuarants in the country. I have been to Disney maybe 8 times in the last 5 years and I make sure to eat there every time.

It is not for everyone though. It definately helps to be a foodie because they will offer you ingredients that you don't get to eat very often. If the thought of ingredients like Osetra Caviar, Truffles, Foie Gras, Kobe Beef, or Kurobota Pork all cooked in wonderfully creative and perfectly balanced recipes makes your mouth water then it is definately for you.

Plus the service is impeccable. Each table is served by a team (typically a lady and a gentleman) of servers that will everything they can to make your experience the best it can be. A lot of people say it's stuffy but it doesn't have to be. Just don't let it get to your head and be yourself.

It is great for dates too as it is very quiet and private. Plus all the ladies get a single stemmed rose and you get to take home a personalized menu as a reminder of all the great foods you tried.

If you are going with a large party I would recommend the chef's table if you can get it. It is a once in a lifetime experience that you won't soon forget.

Although there are other restuarants like it in the country, there is nothing else like it in Disney or probably even elsewhere in Florida. I really like California Grill but it can't match the experience you will get at V&A's. If you get the chance again go for it.

Answer 4

It's not worth all the hoopla to me. I went there with my husband on the eve of our honeymoon and it WAS a romantic atmosphere, but it was a bit "stuffy". I felt like I was in to elegant of a location. I think they overstress the victorian age at Vic's and Al's. But seeing as it is romantic and all, yet pricey, but she's(your girlfriend) worth it, yes, for love it's worth every penny.


But Cali Grill still rocks!!!!

Answer 5

its not all that -- i think the food is kind of bland and the atmostphere is way too stuffy -- a restauraunt full of people that are there because its expensive -- bleh. if you are inpressed with caviar with no particular presentation then go for it. i would rather go somewhere with appetizing food. at disney the epcot places are generally good -- try the sushi at the swan, there used to be a great italian place at the swan -- they are putting in a new italian place and if its 1/2 as good i would still recommend it. boma and jiko at animal kingdom are both adventurous and good, artists point at wilderness lodge gets points from me too. for out of the way bongos is my fave place at disney -- its gloria estefans cuban place and quite authentic and good.

Answer 6

I didn't enjoy it too much. But then again, im not into all that hoopla over an expensive restaurant. The food was good tho. But EXPENSIVE.