Blog Article: We Ate at Disney World’s Most Expensive Restaurant: Victoria & Albert’s Dining Review 2024
Our latest culinary adventure took us to Victoria & Albert’s, Disney World’s most luxurious and only Michelin-starred restaurant. Located at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, this iconic dining destination offers an unforgettable multi-course experience. Here’s a breakdown of our visit, from the impeccable service to the exquisite dishes.
Getting Ready for the Experience
We arrived at the Grand Floridian in our finest attire, as the restaurant has a formal dress code. One perk we took advantage of was the complimentary valet parking, which is a blessing considering Florida’s heat. After navigating the beautiful resort lobby, we made our way upstairs to the understated yet elegant entrance of Victoria & Albert’s.
The restaurant has an intimate feel, with padded walls and a butterfly motif adorning the decor. Its exclusive Queen Victoria Roomfeatures just four tables, adding to the refined ambiance.
The Menu and Pricing
Victoria & Albert’s offers two prix fixe menus:
1.Signature Menu – $295 per person, with optional wine pairing ($155) or zero-proof pairing ($115).
2.Enhanced Menu (includes Miyazaki A5 Wagyu beef) – $375 per person, with wine pairing ($210) or zero-proof pairing ($145).
Customizations are available for dietary restrictions or preferences. Our menus reflected these adjustments—Jen’s included seafood options like caviar and lobster, while mine avoided seafood entirely.
The Culinary Journey
The evening consisted of meticulously prepared courses, each paired with complementary beverages for an optional additional cost.
Highlights:
•Apertif: A refreshing watermelon, grapefruit, and tamarind cocktail set the tone for the evening.
•Signature Dishes:
•English Pea with White Chocolate: A light and delicate first course.
•Dashi Broth with Chicken Skin: A perfectly balanced Umami flavor.
•Wagyu Pastrami: Served with crispy cabbage leaves and house-made sauerkraut.
•Miyazaki A5 Wagyu: Melt-in-your-mouth perfection with buttery mashed potatoes—a standout dish.
•Carrot Cake Dessert: A playful yet refined take on a classic, complete with carrot cake ice cream.
Beverages:
We sampled an array of beverages, including:
•Wine pairings for Jen, featuring selections that complemented each course’s flavors.
•Zero-proof pairings for me, which showcased creative and adventurous flavors inspired by the chef’s travels.
A 5-Hour Culinary Affair
Our reservation began at 7:10 PM, and we didn’t leave the restaurant until after 12:30 AM. Despite the lengthy experience, we never felt rushed or left waiting. The seamless service contributed to the evening’s elegance.
The Price Tag
Dining at Victoria & Albert’s is a splurge reserved for special occasions. For two people:
•Meals: $375 per person
•Wine pairing: $210
•Zero-proof pairing: $145
•Bottled water: Additional cost
•Total: $1,200
While pricey, the Michelin-starred experience delivered on its promise of exceptional cuisine and service. However, if we returned, we might skip the beverage pairings in favor of individual glasses of wine or water.
Final Thoughts
Dining at Victoria & Albert’s is an extraordinary experience, ideal for marking a milestone or indulging in world-class cuisine. The food is expertly crafted, the ambiance is elegant, and the service is impeccable. While we won’t be back anytime soon, this visit left us with unforgettable memories.