5 Things You Will Love About Le Cellier Steakhouse

This article may sound a little biased, considering that this particular restaurant is housed in the Canadian Pavilion of the World Showcase in Epcot. Being from Canada ourselves, this restaurant was never on our must-dine list. We usually passed over the Canadian pavilion pretty quickly, with the exception of the obligatory stop to take photos with all of the apparent ‘Canadian’ staples (hockey gear, moose-themed apparel and maple syrup products). But a few years ago, we decided to give it a try, and it definitely didn’t disappoint. Le Cellier is pretty tucked away, and if it weren’t for the incredible word of mouth about this amazing restaurant, it probably wouldn’t be one of the hardest restaurants on Walt Disney World property to secure reservations for. If steakhouses are as important to you as they are to me, then you’ll want to make sure you set your calendar for 180 days out from your vacation, and grab a reservation for this one as soon as you’re able to.

5. Relaxed Fine Dining

On a blistering summer day in Orlando, any place with the glorious hum of air conditioning seems like an oasis in a desert. Stepping into the almost wine cellar-esque comfort of Le Cellier provides more than just an oasis. This restaurant has all of the class of a fine dining establishment, while still feeling welcoming for the whole family. Deep wood tones, candle sconces and stone archways help set the inviting mood. It almost feels like you and your family have gotten together in the basement (probably not your own, unless you happen to live in a mansion with a wine cellar the size of a small apartment complex), to enjoy a few drinks and some of the most delicious food you’ve ever had. It’s quiet enough to enjoy each other’s company, and the staff is absolutely top notch.

4. Steaks

If you aren’t a steak lover, you can skip this section. For everyone else, here’s the beef. Do you know your cut of beef? Are you sure of what you like and what you are in the mood for at any given time? This is one of those perfect chances to find out, if you aren’t sure. The Walt Disney World cast members working here know their stuff. Not sure what each cut of beef is going to taste like? Want something tender and juicy? Worried about a cut with too much fat on it? Ask the cast. They will be able to tell you if the ribeye is right for you, or whether the filet might be more your style. Every choice is sure to hit the spot, so don’t stress too much about your decision!

3. Sides

Outside of Canada, poutine is not widely known. Your basic poutine consists of fries with cheese curds and gravy. At Le Cellier, they transform poutine from a gluttonous side dish to sophisticated one, and they give you more than one kind to choose from. The masterful mixes of cheeses and other ingredients here are of such a high quality that they become a dish of their own. Gruyere cheese and caramelized onions make for an interesting French twist on the Canadian classic, and the other two poutine dishes incorporate real Canadian cheddar and some surprising yet delicious toppings to make your mouth water. Fries not tickling your fancy? Don’t worry one little bit. Give the Smoked Macaroni and Cheese a try, or grab some loaded mashed potatoes to add to your meal. You really can’t go wrong.

2. Cheeses

Canadian cheddar is used throughout the dishes, from start to finish. Cheese lovers will want to try the Canadian Cheddar Cheese soup to start. Almost all the side dishes feature cheese, so be sure to try at least one. True cheese connoisseurs will want to close a meal with an appetizer (I know, not the norm, but trust me) and select the plate of artisan cheeses. Unlike most assorted cheese dishes you will find, this one has more mild, soft cheeses than the traditional hard, older cheeses, and is sure to appeal to a wide audience. We’re in the World Showcase, after all: why not tour the world through cheese? Canada, France and Italy are represented here, and all of the cheeses are paired perfectly with everything from honeycomb to raisins. Dive in and enjoy.

1. Desserts

There are some great options on the menu for dessert, including two signature options; chances are you won’t have to look any further than these. First, the Smoking Chocolate Mousse. How can you go wrong here? The dish includes chocolate, marshmallow, cinnamon, and a crunch of chocolate bark and almond, with a little Grand Marnier to top it all off. There needs to be another word to describe this dessert, because “tasty” and “delicious” don’t come close to describing it. Not in the chocolate mood? Three words are all you need: Maple Crème Brûlée. The amalgamation of flavours here should never be separated. It is a brilliant concoction you’ll want to experience yourself!