Saturday, February 27, 2010
Disney World Resort Hopping
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
WDW Vinylmation Store to open at Downtown Disney
It's almost official. Downtown Disney is getting it's own Vinylmation store to replace one of the Planet Hollywood gift shops. Good news if you're a VM fan or just a Disney fan in general. Rumor has it, you'll find all the series plus a slew of new series ready to launch over this year. There's also rumor of a build your own section of the store. Since many stores sell the blanks, being able to customize a figure could be an even better way to remember your Disney trip.Now just what is this Vinylmation thing that keeps popping up? It's a series of Mickey shaped 3 inch figures (also 9 inchers) painted in various designs or themes. There's everything from burgers to Monorails, but there's a catch. You pick the series (Parks, Urban, Holiday, etc), but the end result is totally random. In addition, there's a secret figure in every series that isn't revealed right away. Kind of a special edition. Bingo. Luck o' the draw here. And in an odd way, it's part of the fun.
I know what you're thinking. "What if I get a crappy one and I wasted ten bucks? Where's the fun in that?" Like any game of chance, there are some risks, and you assume them if you play the game. And, much like any chance game, there are some things that can sway the odds in your favor. Here are a few of my tricks:
- Pick a series or 2 where at least half to 3/4 of the artwork is something you could enjoy. If there's only 1 or 2 figures you like in a series of 12, chances are low you'll get them and you'll probably be unhappy with what you do get.
- Keep the so-so figures and trade them. Chances are, a sister or brother VM fan will be interested and you can get a better figure out of the deal. There are always the trade forums or eBay if nothing else.
- If you collect pins, particularly VM pins, you double your chances for a couple bucks more than the cost of 1 figure. There's 2 pins per pack, and a pack goes for about $12 (a single figure is $10). If you don't like what you get out of the series after employing the above tips, save the pins for trade, OR talk with a cast member in the area. They carry other Disney pins and will trade what they have upon request. You might just find something better.
- Since collecting this stuff can get expensive in a hurry, try setting aside loose change from other purchases. When you have about $12, pick up a box of VM pins, or a figure every so often. You get a prize now and then without breaking the bank. You also help out cast members who often NEED that loose change.
Really, you just have to have fun with the idea. I have 2 VM figures and 4 pins. Now I wasn't wild about my Cutester Series Apple or Urban Series 3 Watermelon (aka the Chaser or secret figure) at first, but they're growing on me. Thankfully, my Park Series 2 and 3 pins ended up pretty good (Castle, Winnie the Pooh, Fish Bowl, and Toy Story Green Guy), so no need to trade there. Oh, I still have my eye on the Urban Series 3 Burger and Diver and could be persuaded to trade. There are some others that might be worth a trade as well, but all in all, I've done well on the randomness table.
Hope this info is helpful to everyone. Drop me a line if you're in the Orlando area and wish to trade or just talk Pin Collecting or Vinylmation. As Carl Grisholm once said, "Maybe we can cut a deal." ;)
Monday, February 22, 2010
The Adventure of a Lifetime
In July 2009, I was layed off...and terrified. Amidst some medical and financial problems I was trying to fix, my employer at that time cut me loose. Was I angry with them? Definitely. But honestly, though trained in 3D modeling and graphics, my heart just wasn't in it, and I was fighting a losing socio-political battle. My heart was in Orlando Florida, and my number came up.
Ultimately, I lost my apartment, most of my furniture, health insurance, some dignity and some self respect. All things I worked furiously to obtain through getting my 3D associates a few years prior. All that effort and fate sent me back to square one. Back to the struggle.
I say all this not to cultivate pity, but to set the stage for a very unique set of circumstances that would become my world. With majority camping gear and most of my goods in a couple frame packs, I moved to Memphis Tennessee to live with my girlfriend at that time. The reasoning was bigger city, better job prospects, and eventually move to Orlando Florida. During that time, though work was nill, a careful budget and help from her on occasion saw us traveling to conventions. There were book signings, tourist trips, and even some theme parks. But still no work.
By December 2009, I'd cashed my equal to retirement and had about 3 months to live on. If Orlando, which had been screaming at me all the while, was to happen, it had to be now. The girlfriend and I split, and I returned to Huntsville to be with my family for the holidays. That decision cost me a relationship, media work, a book cover, and plenty more. Even so, it was the right decision. My heart told me so.
The stars lined up in Orlando as the parents helped with some financial things while internet friends near Disney gave me a places to stay. Despite best efforts, still no work. Though worried and sleepless many many nights, it occurred that what I was experiencing was the sort of thing seen in a coming of age movie. The main character comes screaming close to rock bottom while meeting kindred spirits, but is never want for the essentials. He also learns and shares his gifts with those around him, ultimately benefitting or helping his companions. Finally, he refines himself and his desires for ultimate balance and focus, thereby achieving victory in the face of great odds.
This is my life friends. I'm a 35 year old man, in mid career crossroads, living out of a couple frame packs and staying on the couches of kind and generous people. It's both freeing and frightening. Despite the Aussie credo, I worry...a lot. I spend my days hunting for a career, not just a job, so that I can be content and get back to my own place. Oh, and keep my looming bills at bay too. I also live, explore, and cherish each day for making my choice to move down here.
As rough as all this sounds, this is a very rare and very special circumstance in which to find clarity of mind, body, and soul. You ask yourself what's truly important, and you cast off excess in favor of focus. You learn much about yourself because there's a lot of time to face some of the ugly truths. Particularly stuff inside you REALLY don't want to deal with. On one hand, you're happy to live for the day, yet on the other, you feel like a massive failure. Yet somehow, you cling to a shred of hope that the great powers have good things ahead for you, as long as you're aware and tenacious. You have to earn your rewards from the powers that be, they don't just hand out the blessings, even in the most dire of times.
It's all so crazy, but then my life is off the norm anyway. Always has been and always will be. There is comfort in finding other lively souls like me, as well as balance with the not so lively souls. Most seem to find something relatable and likeble amongst my many quirks. Relation builds friendship and support on some levels and is a gift. Even so, I take great pride in my oddities and turn them to my advantage as well as serve the greater good. This includes counseling and open ear to those brothers and sisters of unique nature.
Where this will lead, I have no idea. It's a journey of faith. All anyone can do is charge forward, plan carefully and hope. I am truly in fate's hands, and thus live the adventure of a lifetime.
Ultimately, I lost my apartment, most of my furniture, health insurance, some dignity and some self respect. All things I worked furiously to obtain through getting my 3D associates a few years prior. All that effort and fate sent me back to square one. Back to the struggle.
I say all this not to cultivate pity, but to set the stage for a very unique set of circumstances that would become my world. With majority camping gear and most of my goods in a couple frame packs, I moved to Memphis Tennessee to live with my girlfriend at that time. The reasoning was bigger city, better job prospects, and eventually move to Orlando Florida. During that time, though work was nill, a careful budget and help from her on occasion saw us traveling to conventions. There were book signings, tourist trips, and even some theme parks. But still no work.
By December 2009, I'd cashed my equal to retirement and had about 3 months to live on. If Orlando, which had been screaming at me all the while, was to happen, it had to be now. The girlfriend and I split, and I returned to Huntsville to be with my family for the holidays. That decision cost me a relationship, media work, a book cover, and plenty more. Even so, it was the right decision. My heart told me so.
The stars lined up in Orlando as the parents helped with some financial things while internet friends near Disney gave me a places to stay. Despite best efforts, still no work. Though worried and sleepless many many nights, it occurred that what I was experiencing was the sort of thing seen in a coming of age movie. The main character comes screaming close to rock bottom while meeting kindred spirits, but is never want for the essentials. He also learns and shares his gifts with those around him, ultimately benefitting or helping his companions. Finally, he refines himself and his desires for ultimate balance and focus, thereby achieving victory in the face of great odds.
This is my life friends. I'm a 35 year old man, in mid career crossroads, living out of a couple frame packs and staying on the couches of kind and generous people. It's both freeing and frightening. Despite the Aussie credo, I worry...a lot. I spend my days hunting for a career, not just a job, so that I can be content and get back to my own place. Oh, and keep my looming bills at bay too. I also live, explore, and cherish each day for making my choice to move down here.
As rough as all this sounds, this is a very rare and very special circumstance in which to find clarity of mind, body, and soul. You ask yourself what's truly important, and you cast off excess in favor of focus. You learn much about yourself because there's a lot of time to face some of the ugly truths. Particularly stuff inside you REALLY don't want to deal with. On one hand, you're happy to live for the day, yet on the other, you feel like a massive failure. Yet somehow, you cling to a shred of hope that the great powers have good things ahead for you, as long as you're aware and tenacious. You have to earn your rewards from the powers that be, they don't just hand out the blessings, even in the most dire of times.
It's all so crazy, but then my life is off the norm anyway. Always has been and always will be. There is comfort in finding other lively souls like me, as well as balance with the not so lively souls. Most seem to find something relatable and likeble amongst my many quirks. Relation builds friendship and support on some levels and is a gift. Even so, I take great pride in my oddities and turn them to my advantage as well as serve the greater good. This includes counseling and open ear to those brothers and sisters of unique nature.
Where this will lead, I have no idea. It's a journey of faith. All anyone can do is charge forward, plan carefully and hope. I am truly in fate's hands, and thus live the adventure of a lifetime.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Planet Hollywood
Tonight a friend of mine and I tried out Planet Hollywood over at Downtown Disney. Since Febuary has become the unnofficial Food Month here on the blog, it seemed only fitting to squeeze in another morsal of a restaurant review. And, naturally, if an eatery shows up here on the blog, it's a good thing, because I enjoy pointing what's right. Hey, everybody wins.So Planet Hollywood is a funky sphere of a building with about 3 floors and a whole lotta movie props. We're talking clothes from Judge Dreat, to Terminators, to acrylic cryo pucks with almost naked Stallone duplicates used in Demolition Man. (Seriously, I had backside view like no other, while we ate!) And that's only the start. You could just walk around without eating for quite a while. Matter of fact, gawking is encouraged, post meal and check, of course.
In the spirit and lively energy of Hollywood, dance music plays as you walk across leopard print carpet (win!). I was caught in another Bad Romance courtesy of Lady GaGa (that song follows me, I swear) while finding our table. Speaking of which, be prepared for about four or five different staging areas before getting to your table. While odd, it does flow pretty quickly and you even get pictures taken for a souvenir package offered later. If you're from out of town, $20 for what looked like a 4x8, a couple wallet pics, and a couple key chains wasn't too bad. Remember, the average keychain alone at most parks is $6-10, just for comparison.
My VERY patient friend (and sister photog and blogger Natatomic) opted for the lasagna. I went straight for the manicotti. Portions were pretty big and the dishes averaged about $17 each. Sounds high, but remember, you're paying for atmosphere and convenience/closeness to the Disney Parks here. Thankfully, quality of the manicotti was worth it. In this case the tomato sauce was the clincher among the spinach and chicken. Rich and flavorful indeed. Yep, there were leftovers, which I'm eating now while writing this review. (munch)
Wait staff was friendly and attentive as well as kind when a couple particular patrons kept dropping things from water glasses to silverware. Translation, we all had a good laugh and they moved right on with grace and poise. Good show and an extra thank you to our server. :)
Planet Hollywood really is worth a stop, especially if you're a movie buff or theme restaurant fan. Much like Hard Rock Cafe, T-Rex Cafe, etc, it's a vacation must do at least once. It's also a good every so often treat for locals.
Thanks to Planet Hollywood for their hospitality and see you all again soon. :)
For more out of this world info, check out http://www.planethollywood.com/.
New England Travel Update 2: Return of Chaos
Well gang, I finally got back to Orlando Tuesday after yet more wackiness and flight cancelations from Delta.
Ended up flying the comical and comfortable skys of Southwest and was pleasently surprised. Dad was able to wrangle a flight to Baltimore and then on to Birmingham (Monday), with another flight to Orlando the following day (Tuesday). While there was no assigned seating on any of the flights, the seats were more roomy and comfortable, and the atmosphere was professional, yet light hearted. When your pilot says "Yippie skippy folks! Please stow your loose articles, were heading in!" after circling BWI in show and rain, you know it's a good flight.
Sadly, when we got into Birmingham around 9 Monday night, I got the word a high school friend and former drama classmate had died suddenly. After all the goings on with my cousin and finally getting used to that, I was just numb. Once again, like my cousin, Jason and I had planned to meet up and catch up on life, and we had talked sporadically on Facebook. Just really sad. There was just no way to make the thursday funeral with my other commitments. My heart goes out to Jason's friends and family along with my deepest sympathies. Rest in peace my friend, it was an honor to know you.
Well, finally on Tuesday morning I touched down in Orlando. My buddy Matt picked me up at the airport and we decided to celebrate at Arby's. This is where I happily kissed the Orlando asphalt. Yes, there is video courtesy of Matt Grass and Coaster Crew.
Speaking of Coaster Crew, I can't say just how nice these folks are. BIG thanks to Clint Novak for not only being willing to pick me up at BWI if there was a flight cancel, but also letting me possibly stay a couple days with his family, and ride with them back to Orlando. This on top of the already rocking hospitality from The Legend and Matt Grass at the In The Loop timeshares Orlando, just speaks volumes. Deep thanks from the bottom of my heart you guys. Seriously.
Mr. Grass and I took a photo trip to Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Boardwalk on Wednesday (yesterday) to have some fun and reintroduce me to Disney culture. Folks, DAKL is a beautiful place that even nods a little to The Adventurers Club. Got some terrific pictures and really must save for a quality DSLR. Blackberry has been awesome for quick, sharp pics, but some shots would've really popped with a good zoom, Carl Z lense, and depth of field. Makes me really miss the Canon EOS 20D we used at my old job. The trip was also a good chance for walking and excercise.
Naturally, I picked up a Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge pin, to remember the occasion. Eventually there will be an album devoted to my growing pin collection.
Now, I return to the job hunt, hoping for a miracle that will let me live decently and accomplish some very important personal goals. Otherwise, there may be yet more couches in my future. Been doing this since August of 2009. Frankly, it's miraculous I've gotten this far.
Well, I wanted adventure...
Ended up flying the comical and comfortable skys of Southwest and was pleasently surprised. Dad was able to wrangle a flight to Baltimore and then on to Birmingham (Monday), with another flight to Orlando the following day (Tuesday). While there was no assigned seating on any of the flights, the seats were more roomy and comfortable, and the atmosphere was professional, yet light hearted. When your pilot says "Yippie skippy folks! Please stow your loose articles, were heading in!" after circling BWI in show and rain, you know it's a good flight.
Sadly, when we got into Birmingham around 9 Monday night, I got the word a high school friend and former drama classmate had died suddenly. After all the goings on with my cousin and finally getting used to that, I was just numb. Once again, like my cousin, Jason and I had planned to meet up and catch up on life, and we had talked sporadically on Facebook. Just really sad. There was just no way to make the thursday funeral with my other commitments. My heart goes out to Jason's friends and family along with my deepest sympathies. Rest in peace my friend, it was an honor to know you.
Well, finally on Tuesday morning I touched down in Orlando. My buddy Matt picked me up at the airport and we decided to celebrate at Arby's. This is where I happily kissed the Orlando asphalt. Yes, there is video courtesy of Matt Grass and Coaster Crew.
Speaking of Coaster Crew, I can't say just how nice these folks are. BIG thanks to Clint Novak for not only being willing to pick me up at BWI if there was a flight cancel, but also letting me possibly stay a couple days with his family, and ride with them back to Orlando. This on top of the already rocking hospitality from The Legend and Matt Grass at the In The Loop timeshares Orlando, just speaks volumes. Deep thanks from the bottom of my heart you guys. Seriously.
Mr. Grass and I took a photo trip to Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge and The Boardwalk on Wednesday (yesterday) to have some fun and reintroduce me to Disney culture. Folks, DAKL is a beautiful place that even nods a little to The Adventurers Club. Got some terrific pictures and really must save for a quality DSLR. Blackberry has been awesome for quick, sharp pics, but some shots would've really popped with a good zoom, Carl Z lense, and depth of field. Makes me really miss the Canon EOS 20D we used at my old job. The trip was also a good chance for walking and excercise.
Naturally, I picked up a Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge pin, to remember the occasion. Eventually there will be an album devoted to my growing pin collection.
Now, I return to the job hunt, hoping for a miracle that will let me live decently and accomplish some very important personal goals. Otherwise, there may be yet more couches in my future. Been doing this since August of 2009. Frankly, it's miraculous I've gotten this far.
Well, I wanted adventure...
Sunday, February 14, 2010
New England Travel Update
Ok gang, for those that don't already know, I went up to Mystic Connecticut for my cousin's funeral and got stuck in nearby Providence, Rhode Island. It wasn't so much the snow and wind, but the HUGE amount of flight cancellations that created an improvised vacation. Even so, the R&R (even though my "fun" is working on web stuff) has been enjoyable. Met several great new folks that were friend of my cousin, and got to hear some terrific stories about him. Also got know him in some respects all over again by the people who genuinely loved and cared for him. To all you folks, can't wait to come back and visit, and deligthed to meet you!
While I love the Hampton in, it's great hospitality and free belgian waffles and hot coco for breakfast, I'm more than ready to head back to Orlando as well as get back to the job hunt. Been here since Tuesday or Wednesday of last week.
If all goes well, I'll be on a plane to Atlanta and then Huntsville tomorrow evening. The plan is stay overnight with the folks in Hunstville, then fly back to Atlanta and on to Orlando Tuesday evening. Also get to test out this whole Delta Sky Miles thing I joined last night (Dad, good call and thanks!).
As you can guess, internet time on public computers has been scarce and there's really only so much you can do with no wi-fi and weak signal on a Blackberry. Had hoped to upload trip photos to Facebook during down time, but could not, even with 4 bars of signal. How much power do Facebook servers NEED that they keep losing connection with that much signal? That, combined with new updates online and on Blackberry have not gone well and we'll leave it at that.
On the plus side, the time with the folks has been fun. We hit Warwick Mall yesterday to escape cabin fever. It was there I saw some great new pocket watches and became a fan of Movado watches. I'm already a Citizen guy, so Movado is an understandable progression. Nice to see more pocket watches hitting the scene from up and coming designers. Also, Simmons is one to watch for men's bling. While not a blingy guy, I do like Simmons work, particularly the edgy industrial meets elegant style. One of the few times in my life I MIGHT consider a $400 ring, but that's quite a ways off. Some cool artistry and I learned something new. Makes me really miss my Harley Davidson pocket watch, which didn't come on this trip. Also saw Brighton and liked some of their belts and accessories. When I have need, one of their money clips or cell cases might find it's way into the wardrobe.
Spiritually speaking, I attended church for the first time in a few years. Also had a rosary and ring blessed by the Catholic (don't hate) priest. Both items have special significance. The rosary was a gift from my ex-girlfriend in Memphis and the silver ring was the first nice piece of jewelry I ever bought myself. I treasure both of these and carry them happily. Back to the service, the time was therapudic. Glad I went. Dunno how often I'd go back, but glad I went this time.
Curiously this is also "The Year of the Priest" as well "The Year of the Tiger" in Chinese Zodiac. Between WoW character, being ordained in the Universal Life Church as a minister recently, and having Tiger as my sign (depending on which Chinese Zodiac you follow), this gives me hope for a good year. Hopefully it's filled with luck and prosperity, not just for me, but for all. Definitely cool and makes me smile.
Yeah, me as a Reverend...now that's a frightening thought! ;) Hey, I'm still proud of that accomplishmnet just the same.
So there you have it, a buncha randomness from a trip that's been about as wild as a B&M Hyper during Mardi Gras on free beer night. (Don't know where I was going with that either, but it made you laugh, right?).
Kidding aside, this trip has been a wonderful teacher. Life's brevity and delicacy can't be appreciated enough, nor can truly following your dreams and heart's desires while you can. Taking chances and exploring new things, great and small, are where the true thrills of this life are. The results are new people and adventures, or just simply saying "Yeah, I did that" with a smile.
While I love the Hampton in, it's great hospitality and free belgian waffles and hot coco for breakfast, I'm more than ready to head back to Orlando as well as get back to the job hunt. Been here since Tuesday or Wednesday of last week.
If all goes well, I'll be on a plane to Atlanta and then Huntsville tomorrow evening. The plan is stay overnight with the folks in Hunstville, then fly back to Atlanta and on to Orlando Tuesday evening. Also get to test out this whole Delta Sky Miles thing I joined last night (Dad, good call and thanks!).
As you can guess, internet time on public computers has been scarce and there's really only so much you can do with no wi-fi and weak signal on a Blackberry. Had hoped to upload trip photos to Facebook during down time, but could not, even with 4 bars of signal. How much power do Facebook servers NEED that they keep losing connection with that much signal? That, combined with new updates online and on Blackberry have not gone well and we'll leave it at that.
On the plus side, the time with the folks has been fun. We hit Warwick Mall yesterday to escape cabin fever. It was there I saw some great new pocket watches and became a fan of Movado watches. I'm already a Citizen guy, so Movado is an understandable progression. Nice to see more pocket watches hitting the scene from up and coming designers. Also, Simmons is one to watch for men's bling. While not a blingy guy, I do like Simmons work, particularly the edgy industrial meets elegant style. One of the few times in my life I MIGHT consider a $400 ring, but that's quite a ways off. Some cool artistry and I learned something new. Makes me really miss my Harley Davidson pocket watch, which didn't come on this trip. Also saw Brighton and liked some of their belts and accessories. When I have need, one of their money clips or cell cases might find it's way into the wardrobe.
Spiritually speaking, I attended church for the first time in a few years. Also had a rosary and ring blessed by the Catholic (don't hate) priest. Both items have special significance. The rosary was a gift from my ex-girlfriend in Memphis and the silver ring was the first nice piece of jewelry I ever bought myself. I treasure both of these and carry them happily. Back to the service, the time was therapudic. Glad I went. Dunno how often I'd go back, but glad I went this time.
Curiously this is also "The Year of the Priest" as well "The Year of the Tiger" in Chinese Zodiac. Between WoW character, being ordained in the Universal Life Church as a minister recently, and having Tiger as my sign (depending on which Chinese Zodiac you follow), this gives me hope for a good year. Hopefully it's filled with luck and prosperity, not just for me, but for all. Definitely cool and makes me smile.
Yeah, me as a Reverend...now that's a frightening thought! ;) Hey, I'm still proud of that accomplishmnet just the same.
So there you have it, a buncha randomness from a trip that's been about as wild as a B&M Hyper during Mardi Gras on free beer night. (Don't know where I was going with that either, but it made you laugh, right?).
Kidding aside, this trip has been a wonderful teacher. Life's brevity and delicacy can't be appreciated enough, nor can truly following your dreams and heart's desires while you can. Taking chances and exploring new things, great and small, are where the true thrills of this life are. The results are new people and adventures, or just simply saying "Yeah, I did that" with a smile.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Libations
Libations is an upscale establshment aimed at the wine tasting and cheese crowd, as well as part of a unique hospitality training program through Radisson and Johnson & Wales University. Make no mistake there is a broad appeal and plenty of good details to note.
Decor is a toned down contempo modern in pleasing woods and bamboo tables. Hip but relaxed elegance comes to mind. Service and guest care are balanced, and plating is both simple, yet creative. The white serving dishes have a slight Asian nod, yet do not take away from the emphsis on the food.
Mr. Kenneth Clark and company have much to smile about in the food department. From a surprising mix of barbeque to seafood, to even burgers, there's a little something for everyone...and at a reasonable price. Our family had the Rhode Island Lobster Chowder (pictured). The flavor was smooth and not overpowering. The same can be said for the Trio of Sliders that had a lobster cake, black angus meat, and pulled pork. No, we never made it to the dessert menu. Yes, that good.
Did I mention Libations provides not only room service, but catered specialty desserts? Cakes, pies, and pastries are all for the ordering.
Bottom line, if your travels bring you to Providence, it's worth your time to visit Libations at the Radisson Hotel Providence Airport.
For more information and a touch of class, vist http://www.radisson.com/warwickri
Monday, February 8, 2010
The REAL Mystic Pizza
While there are several tourist and dining spots in the charming town of Mystic, Mystic Pizza really is a must. Whether you're a movie buff or a pizza buff, stop in and order up "a slice of heaven".
Thanks to the nice folks at Mystic Pizza for their good service and hospitality!
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Earl of Sandwich
I've been meaning to review Earl of Sandwich at Downtown Disney for a while now. After a stop last night at what has pretty much become my second home/main hang out, I got off my kaiser roll and snapped a pic for the blog.
Earl of Sandwich is an interesting counter service meets deli restaurant in the Downtown Disney Market Place. In addition to sandwiches, there are also salads, wraps, and varied desserts for all vacationing upper crust. The average price for a sandwich and drink runs about $8, which isn't bad for vacation budget or a good once in a while treat if you're a local.
To date, I've had The Classic (Original 1762), Full Montagu, and All American, and not had a bad meal yet. There is a good and consistent quality standard here. Granted, some of that is expected with the mouse, however, it's still good to see.
If you fancy a good deli sandwhich or just something new and regal, have an audience with the Earl of Sandwich.
For more information you can sink your teeth into, head on over to: http://www.earlofsandwichusa.com/
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
T-REX Cafe
Ever since I heard about T-REX cafe opening up at Downtown Disney last year, I was instantly curious. Not too long ago, I satisfied that curiosity and stopped in for dinner one night.
T-REX cafe is really another Rainforest Cafe, but trade out jungle for dinos, and a meteor shower for frequent thunder storm. And, just like it's counterpart, it shines in details. From the mammoth (yes I went there) moving octopus over the bar, to different sections with their own themeing (Ice Cave in particular was cool), this place really is fun. Where else would you see large jellyfish for lights, and a bar that looks like a sheet of glacier ice that changes color via LEDs?
Staff was friendly and engaging and service was right up there with Disney quality. They had the right balance of looking after you, yet not hounding you every 5 minutes. Oh, and a big thank you to the kind server in pigtails who posed for a pic...from a complete stranger...dressed like and shrub. She laughed and said it wasn't the first time. Even so, kudos good lady, to you and your coworkers.
Now let's talk food shall we? While there's a good variety of dishes for all appetites and preferences, I let the carnivore side kick in...with a steak n cheese sandwich. Surprisingly, on such a busy night, I only waited about 15-20 minutes and the sandwich was tasty. Filling too. Didn't even get to the chips that came on the plate. Pricewise, remember that vacation dining is a bit more expensive due to convenience and location. Dinner, including tip was about $18.
Bottom line, I had a good time at a well themed restaurant and would go back to try the other dishes. If you like the sister Rainforest and Aquarium restaurants, T-REX will give you a smile.
For more information, have a look at: http://www.trexcafe.com/
Thank you to all the nice folks at T-REX and see you again soon!
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