Author’s Note: It seems our server may have been mistaken about the flavor of the soufflé when they told us Grand Marnier. Or it’s possible that that was what was available the day we happened to be there. Regardless, your experience may vary, and it could be that you’re offered an amaretto soufflé, which sounds delicious!
It’s funny how the smallest things end up meaning the most on a Disney cruise. For us, it’s Palo. Not even the full meal anymore, just the soufflé. It’s turned into this little tradition over the years where we slow down for a bit, sit together, and just enjoy it. And somehow, it still feels just as special every time.
Ever since our third Disney cruise, my husband and I have made it a point to book a “soufflé-only” reservation at Palo. No full dinner. No big production. Just us, a table, and that incredible chocolate soufflé.
But on our last sailing, we learned something new that I simply must share with all of you. There’s a second flavor option.
After dinner one night, our server at Royal Palace mentioned that the Grand Marnier soufflé was his favorite item on the dessert menu, and I kind of did a double-take. I had no idea that was even a thing. I’m not big on orange flavors, but I gave it a taste anyway because they informed us that it’s also available at Palo. Of course, I also ordered my favorite crème brûlée. It’s nice to have another soufflé option if chocolate isn’t your thing. This one was served with the familiar vanilla sauce.
I still opted for the chocolate at Palo, since orange isn’t my favorite flavor, but if you’re a fan, I recommend giving it a try.
We also learned that Palo offers different flavors of ice cream, including coffee, my favorite. Our server was so kind as to bring us the cutest little “flight” so we could try them all and see which one we liked best. There was (from left to right) coffee, vanilla bean, and chocolate, and they were all fabulous.
A Happy Accident (and a Dress Code Reminder)
This particular visit also came with a bit of an unexpected twist. We arrived for our reservation and quickly realized my husband didn’t have a jacket.
If you’ve dined at Palo for brunch, it’s easy to forget that dinner has a stricter dress code, and men are expected to wear a jacket or blazer. We’ve done brunch so many times that it completely slipped our minds.
Instead of turning us away, the cast members handled it beautifully. They offered to serve us still, but rather than seating us inside, they set us up out on the deck between Meridian and Palo. Imagine if we’d timed this just right with Pirate Night fireworks?
And honestly? It ended up being one of the best experiences we’ve had on board.
Dessert With a View
Sitting out there, with the ocean stretching out around us and the breeze coming off the water, it felt quieter. More relaxed. Almost like we had stumbled into a hidden little moment most guests miss.
We took our time. Talked. And of course, fully appreciated every bite of those soufflés.
It was one of those unplanned Disney Cruise Line moments that ends up sticking with you long after the trip is over.
So if you’re heading to Palo, here’s my advice: Order the soufflé. Maybe try both.
And if something doesn’t go exactly as planned, you might just end up with an even better experience.
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Palo is one of our favorites! The amaretto soufflé with chocolate sauce is so good. But they have relaxed their dress code a bit. Jackets or blazers are not required anymore (only suggested). Direct from the Disney Cruise Line website:
Adult-exclusive restaurants aboard Disney Cruise Line ships are elegant dining experiences. Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s sophistication. Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted.
Can you please clarify if Palo requires a jacket for men? This is no where on the DCL website. Thanks.