Personally I think it depends on what type of experience you want / enjoy...
- Steakhouse 55 is quite nice and can have very good service. If you're up for a good steak and a bottle of wine, it's best on the property. I've personally never had 'life changing' steaks here, but they're always good. We often get into wines with the sommelier and have had fantastic experiences with that.
- Napa Rose is fantastic and the food is quite interesting. Personally I've never done it, but they have a 'Chef's Counter' where you can sit in facing the kitchen and have a 'personalized' meal while enjoying the hustle and bustle of the kitchen. If that's your thing, it sounds awesome (almost did it this year for my Bday but something else came up).
- Blue Bayou, personally I've never had good service here and I think the food is subpar... my friends like it, but, I just don't get it. I've never been able to get a good table (anywhere near the water) and it's just blah to me. I hear if you get one of the coveted water tables that it is great... food wise... meh. (I'd rather get a gumbo bread bowl out from the window near Pirates).
- Carthay Circle- I've heard the view can be amazing, but I've personally never been... the menus always look interesting, and if you could get a table outside (if the temp is nice that evening) during the fireworks, I suspect it's probably fantastic.
Experiences I like are a bit more low key but may work out for other nights/lunches... I find nibbling here and there and enjoying the different things the resort has to offer makes it fun and interesting during a stay-
- Carthay Lounge- This bar is darn nice, and if you enjoy having a few well made (Disney priced) drinks, then it is great. I like to go early in the day (it's always beer 30 somewhere), as it is often beyond packed later in the day. Grabbing a few munchies and a couple drinks here is a great way to take a break earlier in the day. I've seen it fill up quickly. Food isn't anything special, but, it works.
- Trader Sams- Again, if you can get in, it's great and entertaining. I like coming here and getting a few drinks and watching all the fun. Food here is certainly 'meh', but, it works, and can keep you going. I'd say not to miss this during your stay, but again, it can get horribly busy... and honestly, sitting outside is not worth it (compared to all the fun inside).
- Paradise Gardens- I like this place... the nighttime ambiance (and daytime) can not be matched anywhere else in the resort. Sure, options are not high end, but, grabbing a plate of pasta (or pizza), or a corn dog from nearby, and sitting here in the nicely lit trees is a great way to spend an evening. Not 'birthday dinner' material, but if you're looking for somewhere to eat in DCA, I do consider that this is the nicest place to do so by far.
Cheers!
And I'm so excited and really hope this trip happens!
