The bluezoo Review.
As everyone knows, the Dolphin Resort is one of my favorite resorts on property as Walt Disney World.
Todd English’s bluezoo restaurant is one of the reasons why. No mistaking, this is an expensive restaurant. For those expecting Disney theming, you will not directly find it. There are no characters or character references. (Maybe there are hidden Mickey’s, anyone know?). What you will find is good service, exceptional food and the kind of detailed theming that Walt would be proud of.
Visually bluezoo compliments and enhances the Dolphin resort. The motif of bluezoo references life under the sea. What could be more appropriate for a resort with a Dolphin for a mascot?
Approaching the restaurant, water cascades over a sheet of glass through which stylish images of food appear. Think Davy Jones appearing through the smoke before the waterfall on the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction. Walking into the stylish dining room the theme of water flowing continues. Wave-patterned wall art, rain drop glass and steel room dividers, chandeliers that resemble chic-looking jelly fish and flowing wall paper patterns all create a soothing sense of being deep under the sea. Even the pattern of the carpet ripples in colors of blue and turquoise without creating a feeling of sea sickness. All is harmonious and calm in this sea.
Undulating steel, wood and glass compliment the aquatic color palatte.
A sweeping bar and a large, abstract wall sculpture of a shoal of fish visually leads into the dining area. To the right of the main dining area is a smaller, enclosed and more intimate rectangular dining area. I was seated with my partner in the main dining area by the window in the center. I prefer the main dining area. The scale and color of the interior works best here. We decided on an early dinner and there were not many guests. A large table of business men (there is a large convention center in the resort) sat in the center, a few couples and adult families accentuated the outer parameters.
We started by ordering a dozen fresh oysters as appetizers. Our server was attentive and knowledgeable. He described the different types of daily-harvested oysters being offered as well as recommending a nice bottle of white wine to compliment our meal. The oysters were very good, as they should be in a restaurant that is almost completely dedicated to fish. The bottle of wine was perfectly paired with the shellfish. It was fresh and light with citrus overtones.
Miguel enjoying the perfect pairing of white wine with fresh oysters
For an entree, I ordered Tuscan Tuna. It is served with white bean puree, tomato, artichoke, pine nut and garlic chips. Priced at $31. I ordered the tuna medium rare. It was cooked perfectly. It was balanced and full of flavor. And very filling. The presentation was modern and artistic.
My partner Miguel ordered the Miso Glazed Black Cod. It is served with warm sesame spinach and pea tendril salad. Priced at $35. Miguel ordered salmon as a healthy choice. The miso glaze was good, the salmon was cooked well and the spinach was flavorful. It did not leave him feeling heavy or “yucky”. After having eaten many Disney treats earlier that afternoon, he was looking to eat lighter and healthier. This entree was a smart choice.
For dessert, we ordered coffee (for me) and espresso. (For espresso addicts, check out my post of places throughout Walt Disney World to find espresso here).
For dessert we shared the Warm Chocolate Cake with liquid ganache center, maracaibo chocolate cream pudding and peanut ice cream. Priced at $13. This is as you would expect from the description. The peanut ice cream pairs well with the chocolate cake. The saltiness of the peanut brings out the sweetness of the chocolate.
Me feeling happy and maybe a little drunk after a very good meal.
If you are looking for an adult dining experience to share with good friends, family or a boyfriend or girlfriend I recommend Todd English’s bluezoo. Expect a dining experience on Disney property, not Disney in your dining experience. It is possible to dine at bluezoo without a reservation, however it is always a good idea to make one. Dress code does not allow shorts, sleeveless shirts or anything too casual. Dress nicely.
Enjoy your dining experience…Under the sea….under the sea…Hey, make your own Disney references!
For a look at the menu, click here.
You can make a reservation at (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463.
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