A Deliciously Immersive Experience For Foodies Who Love Fairy Tales
Here’s all you need to know to add Storybook Dining at Artist Point to your Must Do List. The new Disney Character Dining Experience at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in Orlando, Florida is devilishly delicious for families but adults without children will enjoy the elevated experience all the same.
Heigh Ho Heigh Ho, it’s off to dine we go…
The Brother’s Grimm 19th Century German Fairy Tale Snow White comes to life as we travel to the Enchanted Forest. The dining room of Artist Point has been transformed and we’re invited to embrace the magic and jump into the pages of the beloved fairy tale. Snow White, Grumpy, Dopey and the evil Queen host us for a night of whimsy and delicious food. This is Disney Character Dining at its best.
When I was invited to preview Disney’s new Storybook Dining as a media guest, I considered “borrowing” a friend’s kid. I didn’t think adults could (or should) go to Disney’s character dining without kids. It was my first such experience and I was happy to discover it’s for grown ups too. But the biggest surprise of the night was the food. The variety of dishes with a Bavarian / German influence was fitting for Snow White’s royal table. The menu, although kid friendly, has an elevated feel.
Character Dining at it’s Best!
Character dining is and immersive experience done best when it engages all the senses. The decor and the music set the mood. The interaction with the characters is rather spellbinding. You know they’re actors in costume but yet you happily embrace the make believe.
This Storybook Dining wasn’t just a quick stand in line for a photo op with a Disney character. We interacted with the characters at various points throughout the night. They danced and pranced around the room to songs from the film. And, as you can see, although I’m not accustomed to the role playing, the characters definitely made me feel like a kid.
I was smitten with Snow White and her soft melodic voice just as you imagine from the animated movie.
Dopey was absolutely adorable.
I was not ready for Grumpy and his typical grumpy self.
The Queen was downright scary. She owned the room!
“Laughter is timeless. Imagination has no age. And dreams are forever.”
Walt Disney
Laughter is a funny thing. You laugh when you’re happy or amused but do you also laugh when you’re nervous? I could not stop laughing when I met The Queen (The Evil Queen!) She was terrifying with that perfect evil scowl. I curtsied as she approved of my approach for a photo. She’s the only character that does not walk around the room. You must go to her. As you should for a Queen!
I couldn’t stop my nervous laughter and she snapped “What’s so funny?” in the kind of way which instantly transports you to being a kid in trouble at the Principal’s office. (It was actually hilarious!) You couldn’t help get caught up in the story.
Please don’t die of thirst.
There’s plenty to quench your thirst. Creative and fun cocktails, mocktails, a variety of beers and wines mostly from Oregon and Washington State round out the beverage menu.
The craft cocktails were spot on. I’m going back just for the Peach Brew Old Fashioned alone! The torched / bruleed sugar rim added a nice touch.
Once Upon A Time… Appetizers All Around.
The story begins with a spin of the whimsical tree-shaped lazy Susan featuring shared appetizers.
Wicked Shrimp Cocktail with generous sized Shrimp and field greens tossed in zesty citrus. Winter Squash Bisque with a surprisingly yummy marshmallow garnish that will please the kids and kids at heart.
Hunter’s Pie, little bite size handheld meat pies were my favorites.
The Meat of the Story! Storybook Dining Entrees.
The main course features hearty a la carte entrée options, whether you want beef, fish, chicken, veal or seafood.
Royal Prime Rib Roast satisfies the beef lovers with a nice hunk of beast.
Bashful’s Butter Poached Snapper served over a rustic butternut squash and mushroom risotto is perfect for those looking for a slightly lighter entrée.
A Stroll Through Nature Gnocci, a vegetarian option with butternut squash and arugula was a hit with everyone around our table.
The Magic Mirror Slow Braised Veal Shank was fall off the bone delicious. Brother’s Grimm Roasted Chicken and Seafood Stew complete the entree selections.
Children can choose from kid-friendly items, including Royal Prime Rib Roast, Grilled Chicken, Princess Pasta and Vegetarian Steam Bun.
Sweet Ending. Happily Ever After!
You don’t want to miss the sweet finale. Every fairytale must have a happy ending, and this story was no different. Shared platters of mini desserts included Miner’s Treasure, a spongy light green cake topped with chocolate gems, marshmallowy frosting and a white chocolate dopey hat.
Boisenberry Pie, Dopey’s favorite had a nice sweet tart flavor. Not my favorite of the tray but that’s why it’s great to have options.
I couldn’t resist the “Poison Apple” filled with chocolate mousse. Just look how pretty and shimmery it is. The Queen and her evil ways.
My favorite was The Hunter’s Gift To The Queen. The presentation was full of whimsy and the Huntsman’s Heart was made of dark chocolate ganache! And who can say no to cracked maple popcorn?
The Chef and The Queen.
It was wonderful to meet Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Executive Chef Christine Weissman. She offers the friendly yin to The Queen’s evil yang. Originally from Bielefeld, Germany, a town conspiracy theorists claim doesn’t exist, her magic powers are not only to prove the conspiracy wrong but also to deliciously bring fairy tales to life. She adds the next level of authenticity to the hearty German/ Bavarian feast. Her family’s restaurant in Germany has been operating for over 150 years!
Reservations A Must!
Disney’s Storybook Dining at Artist Point inside Disney’s Wilderness Lodge in Orlando FL is available nightly. Reservations recommended for this popular new experience, which you can make up to 180 days prior to your visit. Current prices are $35 to $59.99 per adult. Disney Dining Plan Table Service Entitlement available. Check out the website for more details.
I hope you’re inspired to try a new restaurant, celebrate life and cross fun things off your someday list. Go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip a time.
Cheers!
Go Epicurista
Disclosure: I was a hosted media guest for this event for promotional purposes. I am under no obligation to share this post. As always, all opinions are my own. I only share with you products and experiences I love to inspire you to get together with family and friends (virtually for now), celebrate life and go #MakeSomedayHappen one delicious bite, sip and trip at a time! You can read more about my guidelines in my disclosure policy. Cheers!
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