Dining at Disney

Several friends and I were recently talking about some of the most memorable meals we've ever eaten.  Certainly not an easy task to narrow that down!  I've eaten some really great food over the years, some prepared in fabulous restaurants and some prepared in homes.  And it's not always just about the fare.  The ambiance and fellowship also contribute to the making of great meal memories.  

Last week, while at the Magic Kingdom, we discovered that Disney is adding a new section to the park, Fantasyland.  Part of that new area is the restaurant Be Our Guest, based on The Beauty and the Beast.  This happens to be Ashlea's favorite Disney movie.  I don't know how many times she watched it and sang along to all the songs when she was young.  It's not surprising that she still knows all the words. We inquired about getting reservations, but the reservation recording said the restaurant was booked through October.  We happened to mention that to one of the park employees, and she said, "Don't take 'no' for an answer!" and explained there is a reservation cancellation line.  Our daughter-in-law Baillie was also so excited about the possibility, she hurried over to get a good place in line.  And by the time our pager went off, we were all caught up in the moment.  Watching the girls' reactions to the dining rooms, replications of the movie's ballroom and west wing, made this meal one that will hold a fond place in our memories for a long time.  

The dining room lighting was dim, but the details were amazing.  

Beyond the window, "snow" was falling in the exact pattern it did in the movie. 

Lynette (Ashlea's friend who joined us for the day), Ashlea, Baillie, Tyler, and me just after we were seated.
Maybe Tyler wasn't quite as excited as the girls. ;)
Our napkins were shaped into rosebuds.  

Just as we were almost finished eating, the Beast made his appearance. 

Greeting our host