One of my favorite things about visiting Florida is the deliciously fresh seafood available, prepared by kitchens that have the know-how to do it right. When I visit Walt Disney World, one of my favorite spots to grab some tasty treats from the sea is Flying Fish, located on Disney's Boardwalk (a quarter-mile long promenade dotted with carnival games, shopping options, and delicious food). Flying Fish is no newbie to the Boardwalk dining scene; it's been open for twenty-one years. It is however updated from its original look, name and menu. Flying Fish was formerly known as flying Fish Café. It has, since it's opening been a destination seafood spot. The restaurant closed in February of 2016 for a rehabilitation of five months of so, and reopened with an updated bill of fare and gorgeous new décor (bordered by an open kitchen on one wall). I revisited Flying Fish on a recent trip to WDW with my family; I am thrilled to report that the historic magic of the place continues, and is enhanced still more by the fabulous new food options and lovely dining room.
We entered Flying Fish under the glow of the neon entry sign (the “g” in Flying was down for repair), and walked into a welcoming vestibule. We had made Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR) for dinner, and were promptly seated by the friendly cast members. Inside, we admired the beautiful lamps, chandeliers, and lanterns that lend a feeling of being under the sea. Sea-themed artwork dots the room as well, enhancing the theming. Low key, burnished metal—including a silvery wall that looks like fish scales—and warm tones further accent the space.
A chandelier inspired by the sea at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
Sea-inspired artwork at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
We like to dress up whenever we eat at a Signature Dining WDW place (the dress code at a Signature Dining restaurant is “business casual.” Men: Khakis, slacks, jeans, dress shorts, collared shirts. Sport coats are optional. Not permitted: Tank tops, swimwear, hats for gentleman, cut offs, or torn clothing), and felt right at home in our slacks in this elegant spot.
I started with a Spanish wine flight, including a Cava (this is what Spanish sparkling wine is called), an Albarino (a medium bodied white), and a Tempranillo Rioja (a full-bodied red). My husband, who snagged a few sips, agreed that each of the wines was very tasty. We also loved that the flight came with a little cheat sheet explaining each of the sips. I was hungrier than my husband and son, so I started with an appetizer, a fantastic blue crab bisque (jumbo lump crab, and tarragon fraiche). It was delicious, and was on the lighter-side, texturally speaking, despite being a bisque. Unfortunately this bisque is no longer on the Flying Fish menu.
Wine flight at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
Blue Crab Bisque at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
My son, the cheese plate master, enjoyed the nori-infused bread service, with his craft cheese selection from California. On the night we dined it included Mt. Tam, a family favorite from Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes; Purple Haze, a goat cheese from Cypress Goat Dairy; and a Point Reyes Toma. The fantastic cheese trio was accented with accompaniments, including honey and edible flowers.
Bread service at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
Cheese plate at Flying Fish at Disney's Boardwalk. Photo by Donna Fesel.
For an entrée, I split the Wagyu filet with my son (served with potatoes, chanterelles, romanesco, and a bordelaise sauce). The filet was fantastic. I intended to take a photo, but we dove in too fast, and I ended up with a photo of a half empty plate! We loved the sides served with the filet as well; they were perfectly prepared, light, and offset the rich beef. My husband ordered the plancha seared scallops, which were cooked to perfection. I love scallops, and these were so sweet and tender—definitely a big hit.
Our meal and dining experience were divine; a return trip to Flying Fish is on the agenda for our next WDW visit. If you are staying at an Epcot resort in walking distance and love fresh food, Flying Fish is a must do for you. If you are staying elsewhere in the WDW vicinity, it's definitely worth the short trip. Have some fabulous food, enjoy some of the Boardwalk performers, and play some games; it's a great evening.
Flying Fish is two table service credits on the Disney Dining Plan. The restaurant accepts Tables in Wonderland (Disney's discount dining program), and for Annual Passholders through September 30, 2017, a 30% discount is offered before 6:30 and after 8:30; the discount is 20% between 5:30 and 6:30 and 8:30 and 9:30.
