the night in.: To Travel- Disneyland: Splurge Eats

If you have some extra cash to spend while on your trip to the Land, I highly recommend trying out some of the more expensive restaurants. Just remember that roller coasters with a stomach full of delicious food is not always the best combination... so plan accordingly!

SPLURGE EATS:

Disneyland-

Club 33: The honor to dine here is overwhelming and amazing, considering that not just anyone can make a reservation and pop in for a meal. Only those who are members, or have a connection to the "club" are able to experience the restaurants fine dining. AND it is the only place in Disneyland that serves alcoholic beverages. We have had the privilege to eat here for dinner two times in the past few years and hope we will be able to return again someday. Our "in" to the club came via a friend of a friend who is a member. Previously, entry to the restaurant came with a 1 day park hopper per person, but the cost of your dinner must be equal to or more than the cost of the ticket. Things have changed since then, so I am not quite sure how it works. The menu does change seasonally, with a few staple items that remain constant. I would suggest checking out the unofficial website for more information (menu, dress code and the history Club 33). If you're looking for a way in, sometimes generous members pop up on Disneyland forums and are willing to help those who wish to celebrate a special occasion at Club 33. If you do get lucky, it is always important to remember that you are representing that member and do not want to jeopardize their membership, so be on your best behavior!

The ladies room is so elegant and gorgeous... surprisingly one of my favorite things about the restaurant!

One of our yummy desserts with the signature Club 33 chocolate coin.

On the balcony of Club 33, overlooking New Orleans Square

Blue Bayou: This restaurant is typically very busy during dinner time, so definitely make reservations in advance by calling Disney Dining. The ambiance is amazing, especially if you score a seat next to the water which looks right into the Pirates of the Caribbean ride! The food here is generally good and it is cooked in the same kitchen as the food served at Club 33 (OooOoh!). Last time we were there, I had an amazing apple fritter dessert, but I think it was a limited time offering for Mardi Gras. :(

California Adventure-

Ariel's Grotto: We've only been here for dinner, but this place would probably be good for the kiddos during lunchtime since the Disney princesses make the rounds at each table during that meal. I've never seen them during dinner, but to us it doesn't really matter. Dinner is set at a fixed price, but you receive a huge tower of appetizers to share, your choice of an entree and a tray of delectable desserts (I adore the macaroons here)! I thought I took more photos, but apparently only the dessert part of the meal stuck out to me...

Carthay Circle Restaurant: Snow White and the Seven Dwarves originally premiered at the Carthay Circle theater in 1937, so it only makes sense that the decor of the restaurant is inspired by the movie. Make sure you look up while in the main dining room... one of the most beautiful murals is painted on the ceiling. The service is excellent and the food is almost as good as Club 33, if not better. The menu does change seasonally, but some items do stay the same... oh, and whatever you do- do not order the rose soda. Reservations are pretty much required for this restaurant as well.

Downtown Disney-

Ralph Brennan's Jazz Kitchen: Another great place for fried chicken and food that is so good, you'll want to take a nap immediately after! We've eaten both in the main dining room and the upstairs dining room. I like the upstairs room because of the lighting and the cute little couch we got to sit on at our table! As an appetizer, Nick and I always split the bowl of jambalaya, which is the perfect portion amount. They also take notice of any Disney buttons you might be wearing... on our trip last summer, Nick and I were celebrating our 8 year anniversary and we received two complimentary glasses of champagne which was pretty awesome!

And that concludes my segment on Disneyland food! Check below for links to my "To Travel- Disneyland" series. Next time I'll cover a day at Disneyland (game plan).

The Land

Disneyland Budget

Disneyland Hotels

Disneyland Budget Eats