Ahwahnee

They called the Valley "Ahwahnee" which many people agree means "Gaping Mouth" although there is some disagreement about this.

THE NEWS BLOG 2005

The original inhabitants of the Valley were called the Ahwahneechees, the Indian name for the Valley being Ahwahnee, meaning a deep grassy canyon.

The Book of the National Parks Robert Sterling Yard 1903

In 1927, the first Bracebridge Dinner was held at the Ahwahnee.

Terry Gardner: It's the 85th Anniversary of Yosemite's Bracebridge Dinner Terry Gardner 2011

And if you can't make it to Yosemite before Christmas, the Ahwahnee offers Chef's Holidays sessions in January.

Terry Gardner: It's the 85th Anniversary of Yosemite's Bracebridge Dinner Terry Gardner 2011

Most people I met opt for a package that includes a one or two-night stay at the Ahwahnee, Yosemite Lodge at the Falls or the Wawona Hotel.

Terry Gardner: It's the 85th Anniversary of Yosemite's Bracebridge Dinner Terry Gardner 2011

The Ahwahnee hotel restaurant is transformed into a 17th century manor for the show in which Squire Bracebridge invites guests to celebrate a seven-course holiday feast with his family.

Terry Gardner: It's the 85th Anniversary of Yosemite's Bracebridge Dinner Terry Gardner 2011

Disclosure: The Ahwahnee was kind enough to invite me to attend the dinner as their guest.

Terry Gardner: It's the 85th Anniversary of Yosemite's Bracebridge Dinner Terry Gardner 2011

When Matt & I visited Yosemite in 2006 one thing we both really wanted to do was visit the Ahwahnee Hotel.

Cheddar Cheese & Beer Soup kat 2008

Cheddar Cheese & Pale Ale Soup - We had this soup at The Ahwahnee Hotel in Yosemite & they gave us the recipe.

Weekly Menu 1/25 -1/29/08 kat 2008

Serve with a crusty bread or homemade croutons like they do at the Ahwahnee.

Cheddar Cheese & Beer Soup kat 2008