Palo Brunch on the Disney Magic

Sarah McClure12.18.18I absolutely love sailing with Disney Cruise Line! Their service is unbeatable, their entertainment is matchless and their food is outstanding. But, let’s face it, their prices are right in line with their superior cruising experiences.Disney Cruise Line offers specialty dining options for adults at Palo (on all 4 ships) and Remy (Fantasy and Dream). Like most families, we work hard to save up for a Disney Cruise vacation and we try to save where we can. So, the idea of spending more money on “an adult fine dining experience” seemed a bit extravagant. It felt like something we could pass up, no need to spend more money on food when our meals are already covered, and we love the dining rooms aboard all of the Disney Cruise ships.After constantly hearing about Palo, doing my own research and wanting to be the best travel professional I can be by giving my clients first-hand knowledge, I decided to work this experience into our schedule and budget during our cruise on Disney Magic. I will tell you right now, I was not disappointed by my choice and I will certainly plan for a Palo dining experience on every Disney Cruise vacation from now on!We made our Palo brunch reservation for our first sea day at 10:30 in the morning. This allowed my husband and me a chance to get dressed up and get the girls settled in their activities without feeling rushed.Palo is more than a meal, it is an experience! To make the most of your time at Palo, it is best to take your time. Not only will your belly thank you (more on the food in a moment), but a slower pace allows you to spend quality time with your spouse, family and friends. A slower pace also allows you to get to know your server and really take in the ambiance and the beauty of the ocean all around you.Your experience begins as soon as you enter the restaurant. You will notice rich, warm colors throughout the décor, however, the sunshine pouring through the floor to ceiling windows make the space open and full of light. The restaurant is much smaller than the ship’s main dining rooms, giving it the perfect intimate setting for time with those you love.Disney Magic was commissioned and built in Italy and the Italian-inspired theme runs throughout Palo. Palo means “pole” in Italian and you will see poles all around the reception area and dining room. The poles are topped with beautiful Murano glass balls, each one unique. You will be greeted by the fantastic Italian masks lining the reception area wall as well as a friendly host who will show you to your table.Our time at Palo continued with a simply marvelous server named Alvin. His attention to detail was terrific, but his desire to give us an outstanding experience exceeded our expectations. Alvin brought us mimosas and then guided us through the buffet portion of the brunch. There were countless options ranging from fresh seafood to pastries, from fruit and vegetables to meat and cheese, from eggs and humus to caviar and dessert.All of the buffet dishes were beautifully presented, like culinary art. Each selection was perfectly portioned, enough to know you have gotten the full flavor without overindulging and saving room for other wonderful choices. Some of my favorites included the berries with champagne Jell-O, the cheese spread and the sticky buns – a new favorite!As you walk around the buffet, you can view the chefs creating amazing dishes in the open kitchen. The pastry dough is even rolled out right in front of you!After experiencing the full buffet, it is time to order your entrée. Yes, another full course, which is why you must take your time in Palo!The Palo brunch menu includes fantastic egg dishes, blueberry pancakes and giant Mickey waffles, along with delightful Italian selections. Many friends, and Alvin our server, recommended we order the Parmesan-crusted chicken breast. The chicken was perfectly moist and tender, while the tomato basil sauce was tangy and wonderfully matched with the cheese and risotto. I highly suggest ordering this dish.There is no limit to how many visits you can make to the buffet tables and there is no limit to how many entrees you can order. My suggestion is to try everything!Important to know:

• The current fee for Palo is an additional $30 per person, plus gratuity. This is charged to your shipboard account.
• In order to keep a refined atmosphere, Palo is for guests 18 and over.
• The dress code requires pants and a collared shirt for men. For women, a dress, skirt, or slacks with a blouse is required.
• It is recommended that guests make reservations as soon as their cruise activities window opens.
• Palo Brunch is available on sailings 4 nights or longer.
• A 24-hour cancellation notice is required, or guests will be charged the full fee.

I have come away from my time at Palo wanting to go back! As I mentioned, the additional expense for a dining experience on a Disney Cruise is something that I balked at for many years and I can confidently say that our experience was well worth the additional fee. Alvin and the entire Palo staff were friendly and helpful. The presentation of the food is a sight to be seen. The flavors were bold, rich and exciting. The décor is relaxing and beautiful. I cannot wait for another Palo dining experience!My concierge travel planning services are always complimentary with your vacation package. If you would like to benefit from my complimentary services, please contact me today to start the process with a consultation – sarahmc@wishesfamilytravel.com