Walt Disney World is in a constant state of flux. The reason of course is to keep the parks fresh and exciting for the guests. Whether it's an attraction that's rehabbed or refurbished, or replaced entirely with a brand-new bit of magic, or a favorite restaurant receiving the same treatment, it's for the enjoyment of the guests. When we heard that the "Concourse Steakhouse" was to be replaced with a new eatery on the first floor, we were sad because the Steakhouse was a favorite of ours. But not to worry, as usual Disney's new "Wave" is much improved, in the atmosphere and noise level of the Concourse Steakhouse.
The new Wave restaurant is located on the first floor of the Contemporary resort, replacing the old Fun and Food Center. The Concourse Steakhouse, even with its fine menu had a bit of a problem with the noise level. In competition with "Chef Mickey's" and the large crowded concourse, even the Monorail added a bit to the din, it was hard to have a quiet dinner, or a romantic one. But the new Wave is much quieter and serene and the atmosphere and décor are much improved. You enter the eatery through a futuristic tunnel with stainless steel beams which look just like "Waves" crashing over you. You arrive at the check-in desk, again with a backdrop of frosted glass in the shape of waves. Very nice. To the right side are two lounges, both with a beautiful overhead "Blue Skylight" and a comfortable wrap-around benches and small tables where you can order drinks or an appetizer while you wait for you name to be called.
There is a very cozy bar, complete with flat-screen TV's on either side and at the end is a glass fronted wine rack. The atmosphere is very upscale and relaxing compared to the Steakhouse. Overhead in the dining area are metal sculptures undulating in a "Wave" pattern and the lights look like large Japanese lanterns. There is a buffet station for banquets and the manager stated that you can have a private function booked here because partitions can be used to make two smaller rooms.
Our waiter was Hoang Ali, and he was personable, funny and had an extensive knowledge of the menu, even though the eatery was only open for 10 days. His recommendation for our dinner was spot on! For appetizers, my wife Donna ordered the Lump Crab Cake and I had the Tomato Bisque. The Crab cake was nice sized; it came with a tasty Papaya slaw and Balsamic Glaze. It had a excellent balance of Crab pieces and breading. My soup had a nice spicy tang, but not overbearing. It came with 3 small cheese-filled breads, perfect for dunking. As I looked around the restaurant, I noticed that all of the portions were decent-sized, so no one should walk away hungry from the Wave.
For our Entrée, Donna ordered the Grilled marinated Flank Steak, which came with seasoned veggies, Chimichurri and Guacamole. The meat was very tender, and the Chimichurri was not overpowering. Hoang recommended the Braised Lamb Shank which was accompanied with Bulgur Wheat-Lentil Stew and Red Wine sauce. Although I'm not a big fan of Lentil, this had a fantastic flavor and I wished there was more on the plate. The lamb shank itself was large, and the meat literally fell of the bone, I did not even have to use my knife. I was very flavorful and the wine sauce was in the right proportions. According to Hoang, the restaurant's main claim is that most of the food is organic and geared to a healthier eating style that is becoming vogue today. In fact, Organic Draft Beers are offered, along with coffee, teas and coffee specialties.
As I stated before, the atmosphere here I much improved over the noisier and more open Steakhouse. The subdued lighting makes it a nice place to get cozy and romantic. The whole dining area is surrounded by teakwood columns and the walls are a calming off-white. We were seated at a table for two right against a column which gave a bit more privacy than being out in the open. This and the fine service by Hoang made our first visit to the wave memorable.
Now the best part of the meal, Dessert! The way dessert is offered here at the Wave is very clever. You can order any of four named desserts for $7.99, each which includes three different offerings. Or you can personalize your choice by selecting any three. Donna ordered the Creamy Indulgence, which included Cheesecake with Raspberry Coulis, Coconut Panna Cotta with Passion Fruit Drizzle and Chocolate-Passion Fruit Mousse with Pecan Olive Brittle. I had to try the Sorbets, Lemon-Basil Sorbet, Pineapple Sorbet and Strawberry Sorbet. We sampled all the offerings and they were marvelous, even decadent. I thought the Lemon Sorbet had a bit much Basil taste, but other than that, perfect. We both had one minor complaint…I thought the desserts could have been just a wee bit larger, they are served in small white square bowls, the desserts were just about as big as a piece of candy. They were so good you naturally wanted a bigger portion.
We both enjoyed our meal immensely and will return for lunch and breakfast to sample those offerings. Thanks to Hoang, our meal was enhanced greatly, the service could not have been better. This new restaurant is a nice replacement for the Concourse Steakhouse, the new organic menu and fresh tastes will make it a winner. There are of course menus for the 9 and under crowd. The new replacement for the Steakhouse is a sure winner, and the new décor and upbeat organic menu will please all palets.
As always, I recommend reservations which can be made by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE (1-407-939-3463). As of now, the Disney Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Experience is accepted and Disney Vacation Club is only accepted at Breakfast and Lunch. As with all Disney Restaurants, guests with food allergies and other dietary restrictions will be accommodated. Breakfast is from 7:30am to 11:00am, Lunch is 12:00pm to 2:00pm and Dinner is from 5:30pm to 10:00pm. For the lounge crowd, it is open from 12:00pm to 12:00am. Since the restaurant is new, times and prices could always change. Visit Walt Disney World.com or call for any changes.
Breakfast Menu (pdf)
Lunch Menu (pdf)
Dinner Menu (pdf)
