Citricos at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa in Disney World

This is the Grand Floridian Resort in Disney World.  We did not stay here (wish we did)!  It is a gorgeous hotel.  This is Disney's description of the resort, "Victorian elegance meets modern sophistication at this lavish bayside Resort hotel. Relax in the sumptuous lobby as the live orchestra plays ragtime, jazz and popular Disney tunes. Bask on the white-sand beach, indulge in a luxurious massage and watch the fireworks light up the sky over Cinderella Castle. Just one stop to Magic Kingdom park on the complimentary Resort Monorail, this timeless Victorian-style marvel evokes Palm Beach’s golden era."

Everything about this resort is elegant and detailed.  

Even though we did not stay at the Grand Floridian we did dine here on two separate occasions. On the evening that we arrived we had dinner at Citricos.  Here is Disney's description

 "Savor vibrant Mediterranean-style dishes in this lively, inviting restaurant.

Wrought-iron railings resemble vineyard grapevines, while Old World furnishings and mosaic-tiled floors contribute to the warm décor. Some tables look out onto the manicured courtyard of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, while others let you peek into the bustling onstage kitchen.Fresh, seasonal ingredients influence the oft-changing menu. Begin your meal with crispy risotto, sautéed shrimp and a sharply dressed charcuterie plate. Then, delight in mouthwatering specialties like braised veal shank, pan-roasted chicken and oak-grilled filet of beef.For a sweet ending, indulge in such decadent desserts as warm chocolate-banana torte, cheesecake and tropical fruit crème brûlée."  

Citricos is considered a signature dining experience, this basically means that it is fancy and you need to be a little dressed up (business casual).  I love how they personalized the menus for us, such a special little touch.

We had a great table front and center to watch all the action in the kitchen.  There were always a number of chefs back there.  I think the Chef in the front on the left was the head honcho.  He said hello to me and welcomed me to the restaurant.  Later he gave Katie a little wink.  The Chef on the right also seemed in charge.  He came over to our table and asked if he could take our family photo.  How sweet is that!  We didn't ask or anything.  That is the kind of service Disney gives.  These two were making sure everything was perfect that was coming out of the kitchen before it arrived at the tables.

Ian and I both had the Oak-grilled Swordfish with roasted fennel and vermouth risotto with a black garlic aioli and fennel pollen.  This was out of this world delicious.  The swordfish was cooked perfectly and the risotto was so creamy and had such a wonderful flavor.  Ian also really enjoyed this meal and said that this was one of his favorite restaurants.

Katie and Brian both had the Pan-Seared Florida Black Grouper with fresh tomato and Egg fettuccini in a tomato water, blistered heirloom tomato and basil.  Katie said this was the best food ever!  Brian also loved the fish, but he wasn't as crazy about the pasta.  I had a bite of the fish and oh my goodness, melt in your mouth! (Photo taken by Katie with her phone).

Katie and Ian both had the Tasting of Gelato.  Cappuccino, vanilla bean, and raspberry.  Again, out of this world both kids were in love and speechless.

I had the tiramisu.  It was good, but not the best I have ever had.

Brian got the granny smith green apple sorbet (sorry no photo).  It had a good flavor but the texture was a bit different.

There are a lot of really good restaurants at Disney World.  I am happy to say that Citricos is one of our new favorites.  We all loved the atmosphere and our dinner.  The service was also wonderful.  If you like fine dining, I would recommend you try Citricos you won't be disappointed.

xoxo

Rachel