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June 17, 2011

A Culinary Journey to the Pacific Northwest: Artist Point, A Review in Pictures

(Repost from wdwfanzone 6/15)

On my recent visit to the Walt Disney World Resort, I had the opportunity to dine at Artist Point, a Signature Restaurant located at Wilderness Lodge Resort.  Artist Point is reminiscent of the restaurants found within the Great Northwestern Lodges, from its rustically luxurious decor to its unique, Pacific-inspired menu which features Beef, Seafood, and Game...did I mention the artwork?





The ambiance at Artist Point is spectacular and the service in unmatched.  The vibe is laid back and comfortable while maintaining an elegant feel.  We loved being able to walk out on to the covered verandah in between courses to take in the sights of the Wilderness Lodge.


The wine list adheres to those Great Northwestern roots, exclusively featuring wines from the American Northwest: Oregon, Washington, British Columbia, and Northern California.  I quickly spotted a Sparkling Wine from Oregon Argyle Brut, from Willamette ($11/gl)... My first taste of Oregon Sparkling! Delish!



Bread service consisted of crusty Sourdough bread alongside Black Nori Sea-Salted Butter...  I am now a HUGE fan of Nori Sea Salt and bought my first jar yesterday!



I quickly chose an appetizer: Mixed Field Greens Salad with Forellis Pears, Rogue Creamery Blue Cheese, and Orange-Honey Vinaigrette ($10).  This salad was simple, but boasted tremendous flavor.  The greens were fresh and the flavors just gelled perfectly.



After browsing the menu, which looked fabulous, I was disappointed that venison was not one of the offerings but was informed by our server that it is offered seasonally... This was fine because I ordered the recommended Cedar Plank Roasted Salmon with Confit Artichokes, Petite Zuchinni, Baby Carrots, and Bacon-Egg Vinaigrette ($37).  I was a little worried, because I ordered my Salmon a bit more on the "done" side and sometimes this backfires on me, resulting in a tough, dry piece of fish...To my delight, it was cooked perfectly and the garnishes were as equally delicious.  The portion size was right on the money.  I cleaned my plate without over-stuffing myself...oh, and did I mention the Bacon-Egg Vinaigrette-- NOM!





My husband was bold and ordered the Char-Grilled Buffalo Striploin Steak with 3-Cheese Mac, Buttered Baby Summer Squash, and Syrah Gastrique ($48).  His steak was cooked perfectly and the dish as a whole was aesthtically appealing.  The garnishes were perfectly paired and were seasonal and fresh.  The Mac & Cheese is quite possibly the best on property!



There were several delicious dessert options, but we chose to share the Berries and Cream: Strawberry Consomme with Gran Marnier, Vanilla Panna Cotta, and Buttered Pund Cake ($10),  A delightful twist on traditional Strawberry Shortcake and a clean, refreshing end to a fabulous meal!



Since it was Bella's Birthday, she was honored with an impressive dessert trio complete with edible paints and a brush with which to paint said desserts!





In review:  Artist Point is now my favorite Disney Restaurant... The whole experience from beginning to end was nothing short of magical.  I think Artist Point is sometimes overlooked by prospective Disney diners, and they're sadly missing out on a hidden gem. 




Reservations to Artist Point can be made up to 180 days in advance online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE

2 comments:

The World of Deej said...

Artist Point is one of the few signature dining options we have not visited in the last year or two. After some of these pics, I think I'll be moving it up in our to-dine list

Beth @ TheAngelForever said...

We went to Artist Point soon after it opened years ago. We had a very nice meal, minus the tuna coming out raw. Of course, we joke to this day that it was my brother's first experience with sashimi. One day I would love to go back with hubby, but we do a lot better in other locations thanks to picky eaters.