Winner, Winner, Olivia’s Cafe Chicken Dinner!
We all have our favorites at Walt Disney World, don’t we? Our favorite attractions, parks, and, of course, food. There’s one Disney resort restaurant that consistently seems to rise to the top of everyone’s list, and I recently returned there to see if it still deserves our Disney trip time and dining dollars. Could the charm and deliciousness of Olivia’s Cafe win me over yet again? Let’s head over to Disney’s Old Key West Resort and find out!
Every single time I enter Old Key West Resort, I am wooed. I am head-over-heels (or perhaps flip flops in this case) in love with the resort’s casual, relaxed atmosphere and vibe. The environment surrounding Olivia’s Cafe sets me in a good mood right from the start.
When it comes to dining at Olivia’s Cafe, guests have choices. Brunch is served daily from 7:30am until 2pm, and dinner is offered from 5-9pm. I’m a complete sucker for brunch, so the idea that brunch is served each and every day appeals to me greatly. And dinner at Olivia’s? Well, let’s just say that after my recent meal there, I strongly advise you to make a dining reservation. Very strongly.
Our meal began the way that you hope all Disney meals begin: with an absolutely effervescent cast member. Our server, Nancy, connected with us immediately, and one could clearly tell that she loves getting to represent both Olivia’s Cafe and its food. Her passion for the dishes, and serving the guests, was evident.
Our meal began with Olivia’s complimentary pineapple bread. Friends, this bread is channeling the glorious version found at ‘Ohana, and let me just say that it, paired with the accompanying whipped butter, is delightful. The taste of the soft bread is tropical without hitting you over the head, and really elevated the meal experience. Savor every morsel of that ‘lil loaf.
We ordered the appetizer that I feel all guests darkening the doors of Olivia’s Cafe should get: the Conch Fritters ($15). Yes, there are Savory Hushpuppies ($12) on the menu as well, but I highly suggest that when in Key West, you do as the Key Westers do. Ahem. The Conch Fritters are absolutely jam-packed with conch meat, and deliver a slight kick. They’re the perfect “only at Olivia’s Cafe” (at least as far as Disney goes) kind of dish.
We’ve now come to the true confessions portion of this dining review. Dear reader, I don’t eat chicken with bones in it. I know, I know. I’m a full-grown adult and yet I just can’t handle a chicken drumstick or chicken breast that hasn’t been deboned. There are worse traits I could have, right? Now imagine my sheer joy when I half-heartedly asked Nancy if Olivia’s famous Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken ($26) was boneless. I expected it not to be, and sat for a moment not fully taking in the good news leaving her lips. To my surprise, Nancy said that the Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken was indeed made from a boneless chicken breast. OH HAPPY DAY! I ordered the chicken entree immediately and couldn’t believe my luck.
When I tell you that the fried chicken coming out of the kitchen at Olivia’s Cafe is among the very best I’ve ever had, I’m not being hyperbolic. The chicken was unbelievably good, with a coating that stayed crunchy and a chicken breast that was moist and delicious. I ate almost every bite. The mashed potatoes that grace the plate alongside the chicken that can do no wrong was delicately piped onto the plate and was very clearly made using a generous amount of cream and butter. Those potatoes held their own, and were so very good. A fistful of haricot verts (long French green beans) was tucked under the chicken breasts and the beans were prepared al dente (just the way I like them). Dear me, my choice to get the Buttermilk Chicken was a very good one.
My hubby chose the Bacon Jam Cheeseburger ($25) as his entree. The burger came on a metal tray, and was somewhat deconstructed as to allow guests to add condiments. Along with the bacon jam (which was delicious) came a half of an avocado, which provided a lovely creaminess to the whole thing. The burger is topped with crispy onions (ummm, could we get a side of those, please?). If you’re a burger person, I think you’ll like this dish; my hubby sure did.
While we were too stuffed to get dessert this time, my suggestion is that you go with the Key Lime Pie ($9). Nancy mentioned that it’s a traditional preparation and a recipe that was handed down to the chef from his great-grandmother. Nancy also said that her second recommendation for guests is the Tropical Coconut Cake ($10). The cake features the slightest hint of mango, and would be a great choice for those who had enjoyed a heavier meal.
So, is Olivia’s Cafe still worth your time, effort, and Disney dining dollars? Yes. Yes, indeed. In fact, even though I was just there the other night, I’d go back tonight. The Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken – and the service – is just that good.
If Olivia’s Café is on your must-try list (and it should be!), there’s no better way to enjoy it than by staying right at Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Through DVC Rental Store, you can rent points and enjoy a relaxing stay in a Deluxe Villa—often for much less than booking directly through Disney. Plus, you’ll be just a short stroll away from all the comfort food and island charm Olivia’s has to offer.
