Waldorf Astoria Orlando, the first-ever expansion of the luxury brand outside of New York City, is a sight to behold. From the grandeur of the Italian tiled lobby to the picturesque vistas of the swimming pools flanked by towering palms and plush cabanas, this resort oozes opulence.
Bull & Bear, the Waldorf’s steakhouse, fits right in. Drenched in dark wood and dim lighting, the stately aesthetic provides the perfect backdrop for a ‘cabernet and grilled filet’ kind of night.
THE SCENE Even with the natural light pouring into the windows overlooking the resort’s pools and golf course, Bull & Bear is a dark and sultry steakhouse. Rich fabrics, chocolate leather and warm mahogany anchor the décor to its haughty ambiance while the palm trees outside serve as a reminder that this is Florida after all; no need to be too stuffy. |
THE DRINKS Either before or after dinner, definitely plan to grab a drink at Peacock Alley, the colorful lobby lounge offering a full list of inventive pre-dinner cocktails, including the legendary Peacock Egg (pictured below). A piano player provides the room’s soundtrack most evenings. |
THE STANDOUTS I should probably mention the Tomahawk For Two (carved tableside) or the pan-roasted Dover sole (filleted tableside). Both are excellent but the dish I can’t stop talking about is the Florida Farms Corn Soup, a sweet and buttery offering that was poured into our bowl around a petite truffle and cheese sandwich. Definitely order this as your starter. |
THE FOOD The mainstay of the menu is its 12 carnivorous and seafood offerings—expect everything from Veal Oscar to Florida swordfish. Favorites include the Classic Caesar, which is wheeled out to your table and prepared right before your eyes. If we hadn’t ordered (and thoroughly enjoyed) the Tuna “Ring Around The Rosey” (a trifecta of tuna, including smoked, confit, tartare) we might have opted for the Bull & Bear Shellfish Platter, which was superbly presented with oysters, gulf shrimp, Alaskan king crab, crab cocktail Add Chilled Maine Lobster at a few tables nearby. |
THE LITTLE EXTRAS Besides first-rate food that displays an obvious effort in culinary ingenuity, the most memorable feature of Bull & Bear is the service, which is anchored by a captain, server and back server system. Your glass will never be empty, a new set of cutlery will be delivered between every dish, and your every wish and preference will be attended to. I’m not sure I have ever been waited upon so graciously. |
THE BEST TABLE The table-for-two overlooking the pool has the best views of Disney’s nightly fireworks, and, as a result, is the most sought-after. If unavailable (which is likely), ask for one of the cozy banquettes. |
THE PRICE TAG Plan to spend at least $60 per person plus tax and tip. More if you are planning to imbibe.
Bull and Bear Steakhouse
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NEED-TO-KNOW DETAILS Valet parking is validated for restaurant guests. On many Friday and Saturday evenings from 6-10pm, a Bar du Chocolate is presented in Peacock Alley, so consider skipping dessert in Bull & Bear and opting instead for a selection of more than 30 ala carte chocolate indulgences made by the in-house pastry team. The candlelit outdoor patio overlooking the pool area is a great place to chill for a while after dinner if you have time for a nightcap and don’t mind the smell of cigars. |
