The Disney Cruise Line has its share of delicious food, but did you know that adults can book exclusive dining opportunities? Palo, a Northern Italian restaurant, is available on all four Disney Cruise Line ships. Named for the poles used by gondola operators, Palo is more upscale than the regular restaurants (but not as upscale as Remy, which is offered on the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy). While service is fantastic at all of the restaurants, the service at Palo seems extra special.
An extra fee does apply to passengers dining at Palo, although Disney Castaway Club platinum members (and guests staying in their staterooms) receive a complimentary meal at Palo. The food is absolutely fantastic, so if you have the chance to dine there, definitely take the opportunity. The kids clubs on the ships are wonderful, so you can always send your kids there while you eat.
Palo on the Disney Cruise Line
There are two different meals offered at Palo – a brunch that includes a buffet and a menu, and a dinner which is also a la carte. You’ll pay one fee for dining at Palo – you don’t purchase by the item. As always, wine and other alcohol is offered at an additional fee.
Making Reservations for Palo on the Disney Cruise Line
Reservations are required for Palo, and you can make them before you cruise based upon your Castaway Club level, like shore excursions. Reservations may also be available once you board the ship, but to get the best times and dates, it’s best to do it in advance.
On my most recent sailing on the Disney Magic, we weren’t able to get a brunch reservation at Palo before we left. Once we were onboard, we went right away to the spot where they were taking reservations, and we were easily able to get our Palo brunch reservation. I wouldn’t count on that, however.
In the past, you could only book a Palo dinner once per sailing, but you can now book twice. To do that, you’ll need to make one of the reservations for the first night of your cruise. I generally prefer not to do that, however, because I always like meeting my serving team on the first night.
Cancellation fees do apply, so make sure that you understand the policy before booking. There is also a dress code so be sure to read that before you go. (as of writing this, the official policy states that tank tops, swimsuits, swimsuit cover-ups, shorts, hats, cut-offs, torn clothing, t-shirts with offensive language and/or graphics, flip-flops and tennis shoes are not allowed). You’ll want to pack the appropriate clothes before your vacation. I usually wear a nice sundress.
Brunch at Palo on the Disney Cruise Line
Brunch at Palo is absolutely delicious. You’ll start with a complimentary glass of prosecco or a mimosa. Then, you’ll be able to go over to the buffet, which includes yummy baked goods, seafood, Italian specialties, and desserts. You can also order entrees from your waiter, including waffles, pancakes, egg dishes, pizza, and my favorite – chicken parmesan. The entrees are small enough that you can enjoy lots of different items from the buffet as well as the entree.
When I go to the Palo buffet with friends, we generally order a few different things to share. Everything is so good, but it’s hard to try everything you’ll want to try.
Dinner at Palo on the Disney Cruise Line
Dinner at Palo is fantastic as well. The menu includes a number of delicious Italian specialties, including an antipasto cart that your server will bring to your table. My favorite of the entrees is the Osso Bucco, and chocolate lovers can’t miss the chocolate souffle. If you’ve purchased a wine package, you can get one of those wines, or choose to update to something on the Palo wine list for an additional fee (that’s what we usually do). Wine pairings are also available.
On the Disney Dream and the Disney Fantasy, there’s a beautiful bar located right between Palo and Remy. Called the Meridian Bar, this little tucked away spot is a great place to have a pre or post dinner drink. It also has some fabulous views. Unfortunately, there’s no Meridian Bar on the Disney Magic or the Disney Wonder.
Have you been to Palo on the Disney Cruise Line? What did you think?
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Susan Easterday
Wednesday 8th of November 2017
Palo is amazing! For our October cruise, we visited Palo for brunch on our first day and then later in the cruise for dinner. Besides the great food, our server may have been the best we've ever had. He walked us to the brunch buffet and explained in detail foods--pointing out his favorite foods and combinations. The brunch is so enjoyable--from the Prosecco to the seafood and dessert table--everything was delicious. We also enjoyed the chicken parmesan and a unique eggs benedict with salmon.
Try dinner at the earliest seating (6:00 p.m.) to get a glimpse of the sunset. I, too, love the antipasto platter and am always getting slightly full after that. I could eat a pound of the parmesan reggiano. :-) We have enjoyed the steak and fish dishes and think the food is fantastic. It is more than worth the small charge of $30 per person. I would note too, that we tend to tip on closer to what the meal would cost elsewhere vs. the $60 charge. The service is well worth it!