Showing posts with label Canada. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Canada. Show all posts
We finally made it t0 Le Cellier in Epcot, 4nd can't wait t0 go again.
One of the hallmarks of a great restaurant is when the owners walk around 4nd talk with the customers. This is but one of the impressive parts of a great Disney restaurant experience that is Le Cellier, Canada in Epcot. It was not just the Manager walking the room 4nd talking with guests, but also the Chef. That shows a lot confidence in your menu.
Le Cellier is one of those restaurants that we had always wanted t0 try, but was never able t0 schedule until our last trip. I had read all the reviews 4nd listened t0 podcasters argue steak houses on Disney property (as a carnivore I like red meat). The anticipation was very high, but what I discovered is that the hype was really true.
Le Cellier is a very romantic, table service meal 4nd surprisingly only one table service credit on the dining plan. That was probably the reason we saw families dining there, although I had expected mostly adults. Dress is casual, but I could imagine it being formal anywhere else outside of Disney World.
Planning Tip: First thing t0 remember, make reservations early. Not just in advance, but just as the reservation center opens first thing in the morning 180 days in advance of the day y0uwish t0 have a meal. The food is great, but the reputation is greater. We went during value season (but really, there is no low attendance time anymore – just less crowded) 4nd called right after 7:00 am but still was only able t0 get an early supper time at 4:30 pm. We normally eat dinner much later. No only that, I tried t0 change the reservation several times before we travelled 4nd during our trip in order t0 add a third person, 4nd every minute of lunch 4nd dinner for the entire time was already booked.
Just t0 note, the service was a little slow, but then again, what’s the rush, eh! We started with the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup, made with Moosehead Beer 4nd Smoked Bacon; 4nd yes it was scrumptious 4nd lived up t0 its reputation. I've yet t0 hear anything but raves for this appetizer, so I've provided a version of the recipe 4nd a video (below), because this makes a great meal on its own along with fresh bread 4nd salad.
4nd on the bread, I was disappointed with the sourdough, multigrain 4nd pretzel breadsticks they provided. Not everyone agrees with my opinion on the breadsticks. But I like good, fresh crusty bread with my meal, plus I was drinking wine 4nd not beer that day.
I had the New York Strip Steak, buttered 4nd served with Gruyere Yukon gold Potat0 Gratin. Mary Ann has the Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon with wild mushroom risotto, white truffle 4nd herb butter sauce. Everything melts in your mouth, 4nd yes, one of the best cuts of meat I’ve ever had. Here is the most current menu, which was located on DIS website.
The dessert menu includes a chocolate "moose" rolled in toasted chocolate crumbs with maple leaf antlers. Like the cheddar cheese soup, it’s a staple order for most. But I was very impressed with the Chocolate on Chocolate Whiskey Cake; 4nd the Maple Crème Brulee looks inviting. This is one of those restaurants where it is good t0 have a group around the table so everyone can have a taste of different items.
The location is intimate, 4nd intended t0 look like an elaborate wine cellar (Le Cellier, the cellar). It looks like an historic chateau, supported by the ambiance of simulated stone archways 4nd low-level lighting through electric candles. Vintage wines in showcase settings abound, many t0 match your meal. There were also beers from the True North. (I’m from upstate New York 4nd we see a lot of Molson, Labatt 4nd other Canadian brews).
I also discovered a few trivia t0 share. This French château-style room was inspired by castle wine cellars of the Canadian Le Château Frontenac 4nd Fairmont Château Laurier. Rooms are named for Canadian provinces. The building itself is only three stories high, but through the traditional Disney use of forced perspective, it looks as if it is six levels high. This location used t0 have cafeteria-style meals, but I never ate here previously.
So y0udon't have t0 take just my opinion, The Main Street Gazette is a wonderful Disney online newsletter, particularly for those like me who love Disney history 4nd its specialness; in other words, they get it. A recent review of Le Cellier was posted this year.Another review on OnlyWDWorld talks about Le Cellier from a family perspective. 4nd for the guest perspective, I normally seek out current visitor opinions in User Reviews on AllEars.Net.
There are two other steakhouses normally argued over as t0 which is the best on Walt Disney World property. In addition t0 Le Cellier there is the Yachtsman at the Yacht Club 4nd Shula’s at the Dolphin. I decided over time I’ll suffer through trying all three, just so I can bring their stories t0 you; 4nd eventually that’s what I’ll do. What I do for love!
Bon Appétit.
READ MORE - We finally made it t0 Le Cellier in Epcot, 4nd can't wait t0 go again.
Le Cellier is one of those restaurants that we had always wanted t0 try, but was never able t0 schedule until our last trip. I had read all the reviews 4nd listened t0 podcasters argue steak houses on Disney property (as a carnivore I like red meat). The anticipation was very high, but what I discovered is that the hype was really true.
Planning Tip: First thing t0 remember, make reservations early. Not just in advance, but just as the reservation center opens first thing in the morning 180 days in advance of the day y0uwish t0 have a meal. The food is great, but the reputation is greater. We went during value season (but really, there is no low attendance time anymore – just less crowded) 4nd called right after 7:00 am but still was only able t0 get an early supper time at 4:30 pm. We normally eat dinner much later. No only that, I tried t0 change the reservation several times before we travelled 4nd during our trip in order t0 add a third person, 4nd every minute of lunch 4nd dinner for the entire time was already booked.
Just t0 note, the service was a little slow, but then again, what’s the rush, eh! We started with the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup, made with Moosehead Beer 4nd Smoked Bacon; 4nd yes it was scrumptious 4nd lived up t0 its reputation. I've yet t0 hear anything but raves for this appetizer, so I've provided a version of the recipe 4nd a video (below), because this makes a great meal on its own along with fresh bread 4nd salad.
4nd on the bread, I was disappointed with the sourdough, multigrain 4nd pretzel breadsticks they provided. Not everyone agrees with my opinion on the breadsticks. But I like good, fresh crusty bread with my meal, plus I was drinking wine 4nd not beer that day.
I had the New York Strip Steak, buttered 4nd served with Gruyere Yukon gold Potat0 Gratin. Mary Ann has the Le Cellier Mushroom Filet Mignon with wild mushroom risotto, white truffle 4nd herb butter sauce. Everything melts in your mouth, 4nd yes, one of the best cuts of meat I’ve ever had. Here is the most current menu, which was located on DIS website.
The dessert menu includes a chocolate "moose" rolled in toasted chocolate crumbs with maple leaf antlers. Like the cheddar cheese soup, it’s a staple order for most. But I was very impressed with the Chocolate on Chocolate Whiskey Cake; 4nd the Maple Crème Brulee looks inviting. This is one of those restaurants where it is good t0 have a group around the table so everyone can have a taste of different items.
The location is intimate, 4nd intended t0 look like an elaborate wine cellar (Le Cellier, the cellar). It looks like an historic chateau, supported by the ambiance of simulated stone archways 4nd low-level lighting through electric candles. Vintage wines in showcase settings abound, many t0 match your meal. There were also beers from the True North. (I’m from upstate New York 4nd we see a lot of Molson, Labatt 4nd other Canadian brews).
I also discovered a few trivia t0 share. This French château-style room was inspired by castle wine cellars of the Canadian Le Château Frontenac 4nd Fairmont Château Laurier. Rooms are named for Canadian provinces. The building itself is only three stories high, but through the traditional Disney use of forced perspective, it looks as if it is six levels high. This location used t0 have cafeteria-style meals, but I never ate here previously.
Canada Gardens
http://www.flickr.com/photos/expressmonorail/ / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
So y0udon't have t0 take just my opinion, The Main Street Gazette is a wonderful Disney online newsletter, particularly for those like me who love Disney history 4nd its specialness; in other words, they get it. A recent review of Le Cellier was posted this year.Another review on OnlyWDWorld talks about Le Cellier from a family perspective. 4nd for the guest perspective, I normally seek out current visitor opinions in User Reviews on AllEars.Net.
There are two other steakhouses normally argued over as t0 which is the best on Walt Disney World property. In addition t0 Le Cellier there is the Yachtsman at the Yacht Club 4nd Shula’s at the Dolphin. I decided over time I’ll suffer through trying all three, just so I can bring their stories t0 you; 4nd eventually that’s what I’ll do. What I do for love!
Bon Appétit.
Top Island Weddings - U.S. And Canada
Top Island Weddings - U.S. And Canada
by Shari Hearn
When most Americans think of an island, their first thought is usually the Hawaiian Islands. Certainly Hawaii is a fabulous place to hold your wedding. But, did you know there are wonderful, romantic islands in the Continental United States and Canada that are just as romantic for your wedding and may be a little closer to home? Here are some you might want to consider:
5 Top Romantic Islands for Weddings in the Continental U.S. and Canada
1. Catalina Island - California
Located 26 miles from the coast of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is and always will be "the island of romance." Although Catalina Island was hit by a wildfire in 2007, the city of Avalon was untouched and is still one of the most romantic spots in Southern California to have your wedding, just the two of you or with friends and family.
Catalina Island abounds with great spots to hold your wedding. If you wish a larger ceremony, you might want to choose some of the more formal venues like the Descanso Beach Club or the Catalina Country Club. If you wish a small, intimate ceremony, you can hire an officiant to perform a wedding at such places as Buena Vista Point on Mt. Ada overlooking the ocean, the beach, or the Wrigley Botanical Gardens. Of course, you will have to get a permit for the public areas.
2. Sanibel Island - Florida
Located off the coast of Southwest Florida and about 30 minutes from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is world renowned for its white sand shelling beaches, which provides visitors with an abundance of seashells from the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel Island is a place to get away from the high-rises of other beach tourist communities and just relax.
If you'd like a beach wedding, check out Casa Ybel Resort's Thistle Lodge, which has been hosting weddings for more than 100 years. You can choose to have your wedding in one of the many resort locations such as a secluded white-sand beach, the lakeside gazebo, or the grand Thistle Lodge. Call them at 866-748-8958 for more information.
3. Mount Desert Island - Maine
What's so special about Mount Desert Island in Maine? The beaches, the vistas, and Acadia National Park are just a few of the reasons why you should consider Mount Desert Island. Another reason is the number of "Best of" lists which Mount Desert Island finds itself on year after year.
Bar Harbor is the most popular town on the island, with Frenchman Bay being a sought-after spot for many weddings. If you want to get away from the crowds of Bar Harbor, you might want to consider the town of Southwest Harbor, on the island and 20 minutes from Bar Harbor.
You can even have your wedding at Acadia National Park, which also tops many "Best of" lists. You will have to pay a permit application fee of $50, and there are certain restrictions. For more information you can visit the National Park Service site at http://nps.gov and find information for Acadia National Park.
4. Cape Breton - Nova Scotia
If you're located outside Canada or the Northeastern United States, you might not be familiar with Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. But, apparently enough people have visited this beautiful destination to have voted it one of the "Top North American Islands" in the 2006 Reader's Choice Awards for Conde' Naste Traveler magazine. In 2006 Travel + Leisure ranked Cape Breton Island as the #1 island in the Continental U.S. and Canada.
If the two of you are into outdoor activities, Cape Breton Island is the place for your wedding and honeymoon. There you will find the world-famous Cabot Trail, considered by some as one of the most beautiful scenic destinations in the world.
For a small wedding of just yourselves or up to 18 guests, check out Castle Moffett, which overlooks the Bras d'Or Lakes. Castle Moffett has earned both Canada select's Five Star and AAA Four Diamond ratings. Call them toll-free at 888-756-9070 for more information. 5. Vancouver Island - Vancouver
Vancouver Island has also made the Travel + Leisure and Conde' Naste Traveler's lists for 2006. Known as "Canada's Paradise on the Pacific," Vancouver Island is known for its beauty - year-round blooming gardens, lush rainforests, beaches, rocky shorelines - as well as the "quintessentially-British" city of Victoria, with its high teas, double-decker buses and horse-drawn carriages. A wedding here will certainly give couples a wide range of experiences.
As for your wedding venue, you have many outstanding choices on Vancouver Island, from public parks to elegant hotels. Do check out the Sooke Harbour House on Whiffen Spit Beach, which offers weddings on the beach and in gardens with 180 degree Pacific Ocean views. Sooke Harbour House has the distinction of winning the Wine Spectator Grand Award for 2006, offering one of Canada's five best wine lists. Call them at 250-642-3421 for more information.
READ MORE - Top Island Weddings - U.S. And Canada
by Shari Hearn
When most Americans think of an island, their first thought is usually the Hawaiian Islands. Certainly Hawaii is a fabulous place to hold your wedding. But, did you know there are wonderful, romantic islands in the Continental United States and Canada that are just as romantic for your wedding and may be a little closer to home? Here are some you might want to consider:
5 Top Romantic Islands for Weddings in the Continental U.S. and Canada
1. Catalina Island - California
Located 26 miles from the coast of Los Angeles, Santa Catalina Island is and always will be "the island of romance." Although Catalina Island was hit by a wildfire in 2007, the city of Avalon was untouched and is still one of the most romantic spots in Southern California to have your wedding, just the two of you or with friends and family.
Catalina Island abounds with great spots to hold your wedding. If you wish a larger ceremony, you might want to choose some of the more formal venues like the Descanso Beach Club or the Catalina Country Club. If you wish a small, intimate ceremony, you can hire an officiant to perform a wedding at such places as Buena Vista Point on Mt. Ada overlooking the ocean, the beach, or the Wrigley Botanical Gardens. Of course, you will have to get a permit for the public areas.
2. Sanibel Island - Florida
Located off the coast of Southwest Florida and about 30 minutes from Fort Myers, Sanibel Island is world renowned for its white sand shelling beaches, which provides visitors with an abundance of seashells from the Gulf of Mexico. Sanibel Island is a place to get away from the high-rises of other beach tourist communities and just relax.
If you'd like a beach wedding, check out Casa Ybel Resort's Thistle Lodge, which has been hosting weddings for more than 100 years. You can choose to have your wedding in one of the many resort locations such as a secluded white-sand beach, the lakeside gazebo, or the grand Thistle Lodge. Call them at 866-748-8958 for more information.
3. Mount Desert Island - Maine
What's so special about Mount Desert Island in Maine? The beaches, the vistas, and Acadia National Park are just a few of the reasons why you should consider Mount Desert Island. Another reason is the number of "Best of" lists which Mount Desert Island finds itself on year after year.
Bar Harbor is the most popular town on the island, with Frenchman Bay being a sought-after spot for many weddings. If you want to get away from the crowds of Bar Harbor, you might want to consider the town of Southwest Harbor, on the island and 20 minutes from Bar Harbor.
You can even have your wedding at Acadia National Park, which also tops many "Best of" lists. You will have to pay a permit application fee of $50, and there are certain restrictions. For more information you can visit the National Park Service site at http://nps.gov and find information for Acadia National Park.
4. Cape Breton - Nova Scotia
If you're located outside Canada or the Northeastern United States, you might not be familiar with Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. But, apparently enough people have visited this beautiful destination to have voted it one of the "Top North American Islands" in the 2006 Reader's Choice Awards for Conde' Naste Traveler magazine. In 2006 Travel + Leisure ranked Cape Breton Island as the #1 island in the Continental U.S. and Canada.
If the two of you are into outdoor activities, Cape Breton Island is the place for your wedding and honeymoon. There you will find the world-famous Cabot Trail, considered by some as one of the most beautiful scenic destinations in the world.
For a small wedding of just yourselves or up to 18 guests, check out Castle Moffett, which overlooks the Bras d'Or Lakes. Castle Moffett has earned both Canada select's Five Star and AAA Four Diamond ratings. Call them toll-free at 888-756-9070 for more information. 5. Vancouver Island - Vancouver
Vancouver Island has also made the Travel + Leisure and Conde' Naste Traveler's lists for 2006. Known as "Canada's Paradise on the Pacific," Vancouver Island is known for its beauty - year-round blooming gardens, lush rainforests, beaches, rocky shorelines - as well as the "quintessentially-British" city of Victoria, with its high teas, double-decker buses and horse-drawn carriages. A wedding here will certainly give couples a wide range of experiences.
As for your wedding venue, you have many outstanding choices on Vancouver Island, from public parks to elegant hotels. Do check out the Sooke Harbour House on Whiffen Spit Beach, which offers weddings on the beach and in gardens with 180 degree Pacific Ocean views. Sooke Harbour House has the distinction of winning the Wine Spectator Grand Award for 2006, offering one of Canada's five best wine lists. Call them at 250-642-3421 for more information.
Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips
Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips
by Rick Chapo
Canada fishing is some of the best in the world with a wide variety of challenges. If you decide to have a go, you need to know about the best places to stay.
Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips
There are many different ways to plan your next fishing trip to Canada. You could plan to stay at a campground (in a tent or RV), in a rustic cabin or even in a small motel. Some people choose to have accommodations in a town or city nearest to their fishing area, so that they can have the amenities of an upscale hotel. For many fishermen, however, a stay in one of the Canada fishing rentals located right on the lakes and rivers where they'll be fishing is the way to go. No matter which province you choose for your fishing vacation, Canada fishing accommodations will be there to provide you with a comfortable and authentic outdoor experience.
One of the most luxurious and well-known fishing accommodations in Canada is in the province of Ontario. The Kesagami Wilderness Lodge, located on Kesagami Lake in the northern part of Ontario, is a four star fly-in fishing accommodation. Being a fly-in location means that the only way to reach this place is by airplane, making it a truly secluded and wilderness filled area. Kesagami Lake is perfect for trophy Northern Pike fishing, because it's relatively shallow and contains a number of weed filled bays. Fish here have been known to reach as big as 50 inches long and 30 pounds in weight, making this a truly world class destination for Northern Pike. With American Plan-style accommodations (three meals a day included in your stay) as well as recreation rooms and other amenities, a stay here at the Kesagami Wilderness is a great choice.
Another great place to stay at in Ontario is the Lake Obabika Lodge. Canada's only four diamond fishing accommodation (rated by the American Automobile Association/Canadian Automobile Association), this beautiful setting offers not only great fishing, but many other activities as well. From wine tastings to wilderness hikes and even a feng shui class, this lodge is a perfect destination for families that might have different vacation tastes. Fishing in the area includes Northern Pike, trout and bass.
There are many places to choose from for your Canada trip, and picking a location that will suit all of your needs (such as fishing guides, a great lake to fish on and even included meals) can make your trip very memorable. Fishing in Canada is a great way to return to nature.
by Rick Chapo
Canada fishing is some of the best in the world with a wide variety of challenges. If you decide to have a go, you need to know about the best places to stay.
Places to Stay in Canada on Fishing Trips
There are many different ways to plan your next fishing trip to Canada. You could plan to stay at a campground (in a tent or RV), in a rustic cabin or even in a small motel. Some people choose to have accommodations in a town or city nearest to their fishing area, so that they can have the amenities of an upscale hotel. For many fishermen, however, a stay in one of the Canada fishing rentals located right on the lakes and rivers where they'll be fishing is the way to go. No matter which province you choose for your fishing vacation, Canada fishing accommodations will be there to provide you with a comfortable and authentic outdoor experience.
One of the most luxurious and well-known fishing accommodations in Canada is in the province of Ontario. The Kesagami Wilderness Lodge, located on Kesagami Lake in the northern part of Ontario, is a four star fly-in fishing accommodation. Being a fly-in location means that the only way to reach this place is by airplane, making it a truly secluded and wilderness filled area. Kesagami Lake is perfect for trophy Northern Pike fishing, because it's relatively shallow and contains a number of weed filled bays. Fish here have been known to reach as big as 50 inches long and 30 pounds in weight, making this a truly world class destination for Northern Pike. With American Plan-style accommodations (three meals a day included in your stay) as well as recreation rooms and other amenities, a stay here at the Kesagami Wilderness is a great choice.
Another great place to stay at in Ontario is the Lake Obabika Lodge. Canada's only four diamond fishing accommodation (rated by the American Automobile Association/Canadian Automobile Association), this beautiful setting offers not only great fishing, but many other activities as well. From wine tastings to wilderness hikes and even a feng shui class, this lodge is a perfect destination for families that might have different vacation tastes. Fishing in the area includes Northern Pike, trout and bass.
There are many places to choose from for your Canada trip, and picking a location that will suit all of your needs (such as fishing guides, a great lake to fish on and even included meals) can make your trip very memorable. Fishing in Canada is a great way to return to nature.
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