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4 New Dining Options Revealed for New Parkside Market, More Coming to Downtown Disney District

News By October 12, 2023 No Comments

More delightful and delicious things are coming to Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! Disney is committed to bringing  fresh, new, innovative experiences to make every visit special. So, let’s take a look at the latest, including plans for the new Parkside Market, plus a new stage and lawn, and more!

Announcing Plans for Parkside Market!

We are thrilled to tell you about more innovative food and drink offerings coming to Downtown Disney in the future! Plans are underway for Parkside Market, a new, curated collection of diverse culinary concepts brought to life by Levy, with all four offerings under one roof as part of the expansion on the west end. Let’s whet your appetite with a bit more about what offerings are coming to this all-new location!

  • Seoul Sister is a fast-casual modern eatery that will serve a Korean-forward menu based on bibimbap (Korean rice bowls) with a California twist. Executive Chef Kelly Kim will showcase bold Korean flavors through marinated meats, colorful vegetables and savory sauces over rice, noodles or salad, plus appetizers, an Asian-inspired breakfast menu, and hand-crafted drinks.
  • Sip & Sonder, from founders Amanda-Jane Thomas and Shanita Nicholas, is a Black women-owned brand that has been recognized as one of the best cafés in L.A. by the Los Angeles Times. Guests in the district can expect to enjoy Sip & Sonder’s signature lattes, as well as fresh treats, frozen drinks and Caribbean-inspired bites.
  • GG’s Chicken Shop, from Boka Restaurant Group, was founded by James Beard Award-winning restaurateurs Rob Katz and Kevin Boehm, alongside Michelin Star Chef Partner Lee Wolen. Affectionately named after Wolen’s mother Geri, the shop will serve a family-friendly menu of chicken sandwiches, salads, and classic dinner table sides. The first brick-and-mortar GG’s Chicken Shop opened earlier this year in Chicago and this new location in Downtown Disney District will be its first on the West Coast.
  • second story bar will be an al fresco spot offering great views to sip signature craft cocktails and mocktails from mixologists who infuse, muddle, stir, shake and swizzle the freshest mixes using local ingredients and artful garnishes. Refreshing selections will include frozen lemonades, frozés, espresso martinis, shareable cocktails and spirit-free elixirs.

Later this year, Downtown Disney will open a new stage and lawn for special events, activities, musical entertainment and more on the west end of the district. In this brand-new area, you’ll also be able to see a soaring new sculptural tower designed by Nikkolas Smith. This new tower will pay tribute to the sublime work of pioneering architects of color in Southern California during the mid-20th century with unique geometric patterns in the sculpture, evoking the famed mid-century buildings they created. We look forward to this beautiful new outdoor space!

Future plans for the district will also bring Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned Chinese restaurant known for its soup dumplings and noodles, plus masterful Mexican cuisine by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán at Paseo and Céntrico, and the popular California-Cuban cheese rolls and pastries to come from Porto’s Bakery and Cafe.

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Celebrate National Coffee Day with Perfect Pairings of Disney Snacks and Joffrey’s Coffee

News By September 27, 2023 No Comments

A day at Walt Disney World is never complete without two park essentials: coffee and snacks! Whether you’re having an early morning adventure in Andy’s Backyard or taking a relaxing walk around World Showcase, there’s always a perfect blend of both delectable Disney treats and Joffrey’s Coffee joining you on your journey.

In honor of National Coffee Day (Sept. 29) this year, let’s take a trip around Walt Disney World to find some perfect pairings for any park day featuring Joffrey’s Coffee!

Couple enjoying Joffrey's at EPCOT

To help ensure you get your caffeine fix no matter where your park hopping may take you, Joffrey’s kiosks and stores across Walt Disney World Resort are offering $1.00 hot (16 oz.) or iced (24 oz.) Walt Disney World Resort Blend drip coffee on National Coffee Day! Find a participating location* to fuel your Disney day, and let’s get a brew-tiful adventure at the park started off right.

Mission to S’mores Latt and S’mores Cookie from Joffrey's

Magic Kingdom Park

At Magic Kingdom Park, enjoy an out-of-this-world offering at Joffrey’s Revive Kiosk in Tomorrowland – the Mission to S’mores Latte. Featuring chocolate sauce, marshmallow syrup, whipped cream, graham crackers and fluffy marshmallows, this sweet treat pairs perfectly with Joffrey’s soft and fresh, S’mores Cookie!

For a whimsical spin as you make your way through Fantasyland, another great stop is the Cheshire Café for a classic Joffrey’s Cold Brew paired with an iconic Cheshire Cat Tail.

Savannah Banana Latte and Strawberry Banana jumbo cookie from Joffrey's

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Get caffeinated and go bananas over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park! My early morning trek always begins before I even enter the park at Joffrey’s main entrance kiosk. In true Animal Kingdom fashion, the wild flavors of a Savannah Banana Latte – topped with not one but two cherries – paired with a Strawberry Banana jumbo cookie will send your taste buds on their own adventure.

Frozen Cappuccino Dream from Joffrey's and Mr. Kamal's Seasoned Fries

Once the day is officially moving and grooving, I find my way to Asia for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up and cool down. Stop one: Joffrey’s Royal Anandapur kiosk for a Frozen Cappuccino Dream, followed by stop two: Mr. Kamal’s for my all-time favorite Animal Kingdom snack, Mr. Kamal’s Seasoned Fries!

Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar and Joffrey’s Shakin’ Jamaican Cold Brew

EPCOT

Over at EPCOT, keep it cool at Joffrey’s kiosk near the Wonders of Xandar pavilion while you await your demonstration of the Cosmic Generator! Pair a classic Disney snack – mine is the iconic Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Bar – with a crowd favorite, Joffrey’s Shakin’ Jamaican Cold Brew!

Round Em’ Up Latte and Jack-Jack’s Num Num Cookie

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Big cookies and big fun are always in store at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Before racing through Andy’s Backyard in Toy Story Land, I always make a quick pit stop at Joffrey’s kiosk near Pixar Place. The Round Em’ Up Latte is almost too cute to drink with cookie butter and dulce de leche syrup, whipped cream, sprinkles, and of course, some playful animal crackers on top! Paired with Jack-Jack’s Num Num Cookie from the Pixar Place Market, this duo keeps me marching through the park all day long.

Once Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge comes into view, there’s no stopping the Force from leading me straight to Kat Saka’s Kettle for a Joffrey’s Cold Brew Black Caf and my own personal serving of the Outpost Popcorn Mix – a pair even the First Order would approve.

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What’s Cooking at River Belle Terrace, Cafe Orleans, and Carnation Café

News By September 12, 2023 No Comments

Get ready to bring your appetite on your next foodie adventure at Disneyland Resort, because Disneyland park is rolling out an array of new eats and sips you and your taste buds are going to love. Starting today, Sept. 12, River Belle Terrace, Cafe Orleans, and Carnation Café will be serving up new and returning favorite bites, as well as some non-alcoholic and alcoholic specialty beverage additions. As these can’t-miss spots are table-service locations, reservations are recommended to enjoy everything.

From sweet to savory, and all the sips in between, let’s jump into our latest edition of What’s Cooking to see what the culinary teams have put together for us foodies!

We’ll start things off over at River Belle Terrace. This fan-favorite spot nestled in the heart of Frontierland is known for its riverfront views and, of course, its delicious Southern-inspired cuisine. For brunch and dinner, you’ll be mesmerized by flavor with plenty of comfort food classics. As some soon-to-be favorites join this tasty lineup today, like the Chicken Pot Pie Soup and the BBQ Burnt Ends Pasta, you’ll still be able to savor returning plates like the Biscuits and Gravy and the Country Cuban Sandwich. You’ll also be able to sip on some of the newest beverages, including select wines, beer, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. See a full listing of the items coming to River Belle Terrace below!

River Belle Terrace collage of food items

Food Items: 

  • Warm Bacon & Spinach Salad: Bacon vinaigrette, heirloom cherry tomatoes, and cheese curds (New) (Available for brunch only)
  • American Breakfast: Scrambled eggs, apple wood smoked bacon, breakfast sausage, house fries, and a biscuit (New) (Available for brunch only)
  • Signature Pancakes: Pumpkin-spiced pancakes for the fall season (New) (Available for brunch only)
  • River Belle Short Stack: Short stack pancakes, maple syrup, and berry compote with a side of bacon or sausage (Available for brunch only)
  • Biscuits and Gravy: Pork belly, country chicken gravy, and a house-baked biscuit (Available for brunch only)
  • Roasted Summer Squash: Heirloom tomato sauce, heritage grains succotash, greens, and tofu (New) (Available for brunch and dinner)
  • Chicken Pot Pie Soup: Chicken, carrots, celery, and onion (New)(Available for dinner only)
  • Pork Chop: Buttery mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and bourbon-apple sauce (New) (Available for dinner only) 
  • Blackened Sustainable Fish with tartar sauce and pickled vegetables served with house fries (New) (Available for dinner only) 
River Belle Terrace, collage of menu items
  • BBQ Brisket Burnt Ends Pasta: Pappardelle pasta, caramelized onions, and wild mushroom (New) (Available for dinner only) 
  • Pimento Cheese Loaded House Fries with BBQ brisket burnt ends, fried cherry peppers, and bread and butter pickles (Available for brunch and dinner)
  • Buttermilk Fried Chicken Sandwich with fried cherry peppers, slaw, and BBQ aïoli served with house fries (Available for brunch and dinner)
  • Burnt Ends Grilled Cheese: BBQ brisket and pickled pepper relish served with house fries (Available for brunch only)
  • Country Cuban Sandwich: Pulled pork, country ham, and dill pickle served with house fries (Available for brunch only)
  • Chocolate Chip Cookie (New) (Available for dinner only)
  • Plant-based Ice Cream (New) (Seasonal topping available upon request) (Available for dinner only)

Beverages: 

  • Mississippi Mud Pie: Sprite, chocolate fudge syrup, and cream topped with
  • whipped cream and crumbled chocolate cream cookies (Non-alcoholic) (New) 
  • Wildberry Mule: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, blackberry purée, lime, and ginger syrup and blackberries (New) 
  • Nielson Wines Chardonnay (New)
  • Meiomi Wines Pinot Noir (New)
  • Modelo Especial Mexican Lager (New)
  • Smog City Brewing’s Sabre-Toothed Squirrel Hoppy American Amber Ale (New)

Wow! What a lineup of tasty new delights. Next up, let’s venture over to Cafe Orleans in New Orleans Square. Here you’ll get some flavors with a French Quarter flair that you won’t want to miss. This spot is also getting some new bites and sips you simply must try on your next outing to Disneyland park. The Potato & Sausage Soup and plant-based Vanilla Crème Brûlée with Palmier will still be available through Nov. 9, so don’t worry! But, in addition to these tasty delights, Cafe Orleans will now have the new, non-alcoholic Bayou Punch, as well as some beverages for those age 21 or older, like the House Hurricane and Chardonnay, to name a few. Check out all the bites and sips now available at this Disneyland park classic.

Cafe Orleans, collage of menu items

Food Items (Available through Nov. 9):

  • Potato & Sausage Soup: Marbled potatoes, caramelized leeks, and Grana Padano cheese
  • Vanilla Crème Brûlée with Palmier and fresh berries (Plant-based) 
  • Haunted Mansion Candle and Heart Dessert: Vanilla chip mousse on a pecan pie cookie with mixed berry compote

Beverages: 

  • Bayou Punch: Minute Maid Lemonade Zero Sugar, orange juice, strawberry purée, blueberry syrup, and an alligator-shaped gummy (Non-alcoholic) (New) 
  • Mint Julep
  • House Hurricane: Pimm’s No. 1 Liqueur, Bacardi Superior Rum, orange juice, strawberry purée, sweet and sour mix, simple syrup, and orange garnish (New) 
  • McBride Sisters Chardonnay (New)
  • Mirassou Wines Pinot Noir (New)
  • Karl Strauss Brewing Company Follow the Sun Blonde Ale (New)
  • Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. Hazy Little Thing IPA (New)

Last, but certainly not least, Carnation Café is a classic, and for good reason. This spot features classic American comfort food dishes as well as some of Walt’s favorites! You can stop by Main Street, U.S.A., for breakfast, lunch, and dinner to delight in the many can’t-miss items on this delicious menu, including the brand-new Walt’s Chili-Cheese Omelet. And like the other two previously mentioned locations, Carnation Café has also added a few adult beverages to the menu for you to try, including mimosas and a Peach Pie Margarita. Uncover all the items joining today below!

Food Items: 

  • Veggie Skillet: Three-cheese eggs, breakfast potatoes, onions, mushrooms, peppers, and spinach topped with cheese and fresh tomato garnish (New) (Available through Nov. 9) 
  • Walt’s Chili-Cheese Omelet: Cheese omelet topped with chili, cheese, and chives served with breakfast potatoes (New) (Available through Nov. 9) (Available for breakfast only)
  • Brownie with Chocolate Sauce (Plant-based) 

Beverages: 

  • Orange Creamsicle: Sprite, candied orange syrup, and cream topped with a candied orange slice (Non-alcoholic) (New)
  • Lavender Mimosa: Chandon California Sparkling Wine and lavender syrup (New) (Available during breakfast only)
  • Orange Juice Mimosa: Chandon California Sparkling Wine and orange juice (New) (Available during breakfast only)
  • Bloody Mary: Tito’s Homemade Vodka and Cutwater Bloody Mary Mix with a bacon and celery garnish (New) (Available during breakfast only)
  • Peach Pie Margarita: Patron Tequila Silver, peach purée, sweet and sour mix, lime juice, and lime garnish (New) 
  • Chandon California Sparkling Wine (New) (Available during breakfast only)
  • Fess Parker Winery Chardonnay (New)
  • Silver Palm Wines Cabernet Sauvignon (New)
  • Michelob ULTRA Light Lager (New)
  • Golden Road Brewing Ride On 10 Hop Hazy IPA (New)

So many tasty additions for Disneyland park! Be sure to check out these new bites and sips on your next outing. There’s no limit to the foodie adventures to be had at Disney Parks – so bring your appetite!

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Tiana’s Palace Restaurant Set to Open in Disneyland Park on September 7, 2023

News By August 18, 2023 No Comments

Laissez les bon temps rouler! We’re pleased to announce that the official opening date of Tiana’s Palace restaurant in Disneyland park is September 7, 2023! This reimagined quick-service style restaurant is inspired by the one Princess Tiana created in the beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios film, “The Princess and the Frog.”

The Tiana’s Palace restaurant opening will mark the next step in bringing more of Princess Tiana’s stories to life in New Orleans Square, which began with Eudora’s Chic Boutique featuring Tiana’s Gourmet Secrets last year and will continue with the opening of the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction in 2024. We are so thrilled to expand upon Princess Tiana’s story, pay homage to the cuisine of the Crescent City, and welcome guests into Tiana’s Palace in just a few short weeks!

Artist Rendering of Tiana’s Palace Coming to Disneyland Park

There will be so many elegant yet subtle details throughout the restaurant that offer fun hints at Tiana’s rich past in New Orleans. Below the lit marquee that reads “Tiana’s Palace” hanging above a metallic gold balcony, is an emerald green wrought iron railing and awnings dyed in yellow and green, reminiscent of Tiana’s beautiful formal ball gown. You will be surrounded by the colors of Mardi Gras as you sit at yellow tabletops, on warm vanilla-colored chairs with green seats, in the shade of yellow and green umbrellas.

Disney Imagineers also took inspiration from the film for the interior of the restaurant, which includes a large mural of the bayou. You will also see other references to Tiana’s story – lilies represented on numerous signs, plaques and light fixtures, frog porcelains, cookbooks Tiana has collected on little shelves, and her father’s favorite gumbo spoon proudly on display. You’ll also want to keep an eye out for the letters from her father and neighbors on display, alongside a childhood photo of Tiana.

Did you know? The design of Tiana’s Palace from the Disney Animation film “The Princess and the Frog” was actually inspired by the French Market Restaurant – the former restaurant in this space – in New Orleans Square at Disneyland park. In the film, Disney Animation artists added a wheelhouse and two smokestacks to give Tiana’s restaurant an iconic silhouette, so when the time came to bring Tiana’s Palace to life at Disneyland, Disney Imagineers made those same additions to create the real Tiana’s Palace, making this a full circle moment!

We are so excited to welcome you soon to see this exciting transformation, as well as mark the return of the Mint Julep Bar! At Tiana’s Palace, you can enjoy new menu items that represent Tiana’s story and honor the flavors and flair of New Orleans, with an effort to source some ingredients directly from the state of Louisiana when possible. Plus, you’ll now be able to mobile order these new dishes on the Disneyland app* when the location opens. Stay tuned for a first look of the full menu, coming soon to Disney Eats!

We look forward to welcoming you to Tiana’s Palace in New Orleans Square beginning Sept. 7!

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Disneyland Dining Update Arrives for Advance Reservations

News By August 9, 2023 Tags: , , , , , No Comments

Not long ago, Disney announced that the dining reservation systems at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort would receive an update. The Disneyland dining update to advanced dining reservations is rolling out, allowing guests to see more time options.

The main advantage of his Disneyland dining update revolves around seeing all the dining time slots available. This should make things easier for guests looking for a particular restaurant but have flexibility on time.

Before this, guests could only see a few reservation times pop up if they specified a specific time frame when searching for reservations. With the new update, guests see four timeslots as the default option. However, people can scroll to the right or hit the link for more time now. Depending on if you are using the Disneyland mobile app or a web browser determines what options you have to view more times. We found this very easy to use via both methods.

Disneyland dining update

We chose to search for advance dining reservations at Carthay Circle Lounge at Disneyland Resort. To start this process, we located that restaurant on the Disneyland mobile app. After that, we hit the link to see more times. At this point, we saw all the lunch and dinner times.

You can also “check dining availability.” We were asked to select our party size, date, and time desired when we did this.

Dsineyland dining update

You will be required to log in to search for dining reservations. When you select dining availability this way, you will see all available advance dining reservations for that time period. We found that guests might see up to four timeslots per restaurant based on availability this way. At this point, you should see a way to check for ALL times.

Advance Dining Reservation Options with Disneyland Dining Update

At this point, you should see all the advanced dining reservation options for the day selected for a particular restaurant. In addition, if some special dining events are happening at that restaurant, like Disney Princess Breakfast Adventure, you see those also. Once you select a specific reservation time, the Disney system will present you with an “Add Ons” page for items such as Celebration Cakes. You will also be asked about dietary and accessibility requests.

In order to complete an advance dining reservation, guests must enter their email and phone number. These are required for complete the reservation. A credit card number must be entered to make this dining reservation. As a result, be careful not to cancel the reservation if you change your mind or you will most likely be charged a fee for this error.

While making your advanced dining reservation, a ten-minute holding time will be placed on your attempt to reserve slot. if you wait or take more than ten minutes, you will need to start over. Ten minutes is plenty of time so do not let that concern you. However, if you get distracted by real life, your desired timeslot might disappear. Fortunately, you can set alerts on MouseDining.com, if this happens to you.

System Looks to Be Rolling Out Slowly

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New Updates on San Fransokyo Square at Disney California Adventure Park

News By June 28, 2023 No Comments

At Disney California Adventure park, the San Fransokyo Public Works Department has been diligently beautifying and making improvements to the local cannery district, which is home to a diverse neighborhood of eateries and businesses. In our previous update, we looked at a few of the landmarks and establishments you’ll see in the industrious mash-up city from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Academy Award-winning film “Big Hero 6.”

Today, we’re excited to share that, over the summer, the local eateries will start to introduce delicious new menu offerings! Starting in mid-July, you’ll be able to sample new San Fransokyo selections at Lucky Fortune Cookery, and the Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería will officially open. In the weeks following, additional dining options, unique shopping and more will be introduced as the transformation of this thriving seaside plaza continues through mid-August.

When the transformation is completed, locations across the area – from the Cappuccino Cart outside the San Fransokyo Gate Bridge to The Bakery Tour – will be decked out in street art and colorful banners celebrating the Big Hero 6 team after their victory over Yokai.

Let’s explore more places you’ll be able to visit in San Fransokyo Square!

You’ll have the opportunity to interact with Hiro and his huggable healthcare companion, Baymax, who will say hello outside the Hamada Bot Shop. This is where the Big Hero 6 team builds and innovates their hi-tech gear, so you may also see a few of their upcoming inventions.

San Fransokyo Maker’s Market

Near the Hamada Bot Shop will be the San Fransokyo Maker’s Market, a storefront stocked with unique apparel, homewares and more featuring Baymax and friends. In the concept art above, the market’s shelves are situated on robot storage cases, with decommissioned battle bots on display. If you turn a sharp eye to the rafters overhead, you may spot the local battlebot champion, Hiro’s Megabot!

Across the way, a vending machine dispenses collectible golden medallions featuring Baymax and other iconic images from San Fransokyo.

The diverse array of flavorful fare in San Fransokyo Square will include current favorites and new creations inspired by Asian cuisine, as well as the Big Hero 6 themselves. Let’s check out the dining destinations you’ll be able to try.

Aunt Cass Café

Aunt Cass Café, the second bakery café operated by Hiro’s loving aunt, will serve dishes, soups in freshly-baked Boudin sourdough bread bowls and more inspired by Japanese cuisine. On the outside of this quick service restaurant, you’ll find a mural of Aunt Cass’ lucky pet cat, Mochi.

An old fishing net tannery across from the café is being converted to Rita’s Turbine Blenders, a giant drink dispenser offering delicious margaritas and icy beverages. This refreshment stand is owned and named after the repair technician who maintains the floating wind turbine, resembling a giant koi fish, that sits atop the structure.

In addition to these locations, you can expect new menu items at Cocina Cucamonga and Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop. Keep an eye out for the Disney Eats Foodie Guide, coming soon, for the full list of cuisine to come.

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Downtown Disney Announces Delicious New Experiences

News By June 12, 2023 No Comments

We have several tasty new updates to share with you from the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! This dynamic destination offers something for everyone and will continue to evolve with several exciting new additions. Take a look at what’s new and what’s coming!

Now Open! Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio and Beignets Expressed
Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio

For more than two decades, Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen has been revered for its warm hospitality, French Quarter flair, bold flavors, and famous, hot beignets! Building on this rich tradition, the iconic restaurant has evolved with a fresh new look, new name and new menu! The location is celebrating its reopening as Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio, a modern, casual and fun celebration of the Gulf and Pacific coasts, and Beignets Expressed.

The restaurant’s all-day menu features long-time fan favorites alongside new selections such as Lobster & Crawfish Sliders, Chile-Spiced Honey Glazed Grilled Salmon, Gumbo LA-LA filled with succulent seafood, the Grilled Open Faced Lobster BLT Po-Boy and the Reef & Beef, a delectable entrée of grilled shrimp and braised short ribs. This contemporary menu pairs perfectly with a newly expanded wine list from California vintners, and seasonal, seaside-style cocktails.

And let’s not forget the famous beignets! Beignets Expressed is a fast, friendly, and fun counter-service spot, bestowing the much-loved New Orleans confection served classically (fried and topped with heaping mounds of powdered sugar) and the specialty glazed beignets, dipped, drizzled, and sprinkled in infinitely delicious flavors. Signature and seasonal glazed selections include Snickerdoodle, Fruity Crunch and Bananas Foster.

New! Clyde’s Hot Chicken
Clyde’s Hot Chicken

Have you had a chance to taste Clyde’s Hot Chicken yet? It’s a new cart located in the district near the Disneyland Monorail that serves scrumptious Nashville hot chicken on a stick, handmade fresh daily and available in three different heat level seasonings. If you really want to turn it up a notch, try the Hot as Cali with cayenne and habanero spices! Wowza!

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Narcoossee’s to Make Its Grand Return on April 1

News By February 20, 2023 No Comments

Hello there fellow foodies. We’ve got some exciting news to share fresh off the shore of Seven Seas Lagoon. On April 1, 2023, Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will once again welcome guests for culinary delights in its newly reimagined space. This signature dining restaurant with its spectacular panoramic views, is a staple of the resort, with its waterside location, and over the past several months has seen an enhanced interior revamp as well as a refreshed menu crafted by Chef Noah Estabrook and Pastry Chef Kristine Farmer in a perfect balance of updated classics and new epicurean delights.

Artisan Boule of Sourdough from Narcoossee’s

The new space incorporates the concept of “land and sea” and that’s exactly what the culinary teams drew inspiration from when developing the new menu. Upon sitting down for your meal, you’ll be greeted with a recipe created by Chef Kristine specially for this location – an Artisan Boule of Sourdough made with a perfectly toasty crust and baked daily in the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa bakery.

As you enter your first course, you’ll continue to be met with masterfully crafted dishes. For years, the Bisque has been a mainstay on the menu, so flavor connoisseurs will be thrilled to see it return, but now with an enhanced tableside presentation. The culinary team has also created two new starters. First up, the Beef and Ricotta Tortelloni accompanied by luscious brown butter, parsnip puree, and sultana raisins.

Ocean-inspired Charcuterie Board from Narcoossee’s

Next, the Ocean-inspired Charcuterie Board is a fresh take on a classic featuring ahi tuna pastrami, charred octopus, and house-made sausage from the sea. This plate is a true collaboration, with each component representing the style of a different chef on the Narcoossee’s team.

Blackened Redfish from Narcoossee’s

Moving on to the main course of your dining experience, the team has sourced sustainable seafood from both local waters and around the globe, including Chef Noah’s signature dish, the Blackened Redfish. This meal is served with a crispy chorizo-sunchoke hash with hominy, Florida sweet corn, and red pepper rouille. What makes this fish a standout is the secret blend of blackened spice which has been passed down from chef to chef of the location, with each culinary mastermind finding their own unique way to feature it on the menu.

Roasted Vegetable Paella and Dry-Aged Pork Ribeye Chop from Narcoossee’s

Plant-based diners will be delighted with the Roasted Vegetable Paella featuring market vegetables, cannellini beans, and preserved artichoke finished with charred Meyer lemon. Those looking for land-based fare will savor the new Dry-Aged Pork Ribeye Chop served with creamy goat cheese-potato pave and turnips with onion jam and a touch of fig jus.

Of course, chef has kept Narcoossee’s guest favorites like the Plancha-seared Scallops with Parisian Gnocchi and Surf and Turf featuring tender filet mignon and butter-poached lobster tail on the menu for new and returning guests to indulge in.

Almond-crusted Cheesecake, Berry Pavlova, Pineapple Bavarois, and drinks from Narcoossee’s

The dessert course also features a favorite that has garnered near legendary status over the years amongst diners of Narcoossee’s – Chef Kristine’s incredible Almond-crusted Cheesecake with Lambert cherry sauce and Chantilly cream.

When developing the new additions to the dessert menu, the pastry team was inspired by bright flavors that really complement the overall experience. The Berry Pavlova, for instance, is artfully crafted with Florida fresh berries and citrus delicately placed over meringue and yuzu crémeux and finished with a tableside pour of anglaise. The Pineapple Bavarois is truly a work of art with a roasted-pineapple center and house-made blackberry-buttermilk ice cream. These dishes make for a perfect and sweet finish to a memorable evening.

This waterfront hideaway is the ideal spot to wind down with a fabulous cocktail or zero-proof beverage. The wine list has been refreshed to reflect a diverse portfolio of varietals, with Proprietor Matt Cristi and the sommeliers on his team available to help you create the perfect pairing for each dish. Our team of mixologists have also thoughtfully curated a new cocktail program, inspired by the Victorian era. A must-try is the signature Empress Lime Gimlet, a modern twist on a classic gimlet with Empress Gin, Rockey’s Botanical Liqueur, and cold-pressed lime.

The reopening of Narcoossee’s comes as part of the multi-year transformation of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, honoring its rich history at the Walt Disney World Resort while enhancing its iconic Victorian charm and elegance. Reservations will open for this grand return on March 1, and we look forward to welcoming you back starting April 1 to this enhanced experience destined to become a new favorite!

Be sure to check out our Disney Eats Topics Page and Disney Eats on Instagram to stay up-to-date on the latest Narcoossee’s news and all the other foodie announcements coming to Disney Parks.

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)

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Disney Cast Honor Black History Month Creating Soulful Dishes

News, Special Events By February 9, 2023 No Comments

This February with Celebrate Soulfully, we are commemorating Black History Month with experiences that honor Black heritage and culture through music, food, art and more.

Meet Kima and Twon, two Disney Springs culinary cast members who are sharing a piece of their heritage with dishes they have created for this celebration.

Cast Member at Poutine stand

Growing up in Colorado Springs, Kima always looked forward to her family gatherings on Sundays, when Grandma took over the kitchen with the spices of her Jamaican and Puerto Rican roots. Kima’s favorite was the jerk chicken and that’s what inspired her to create the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Frites at The Daily Poutine. Made of sweet ‘n’ hot jerk marinated chicken, pineapple salsa, scotch bonnet aioli and fries, the dish is a nod to her grandma – a tribute to the person that shaped her love for food.

“I started cooking when I was about 5 years old,” remembers Kima. “The first thing I learned how to cook was mac and cheese and collard greens and I’ve been cooking ever since.”

Poutine close up

Food has always been an important part of her life and her culture, and that’s what drove her to pursue a career in the culinary arts.

Being an only child, Kima appreciates her Disney family, who have contributed to her growth over the past 14 years of her Disney career and celebrate her accomplishments. And this is only the beginning for Kima, who has many more goals to conquer here at Disney!

Cast Member at BB Wolf's

As the oldest of 12 siblings growing up in Orlando, Florida, Twon spent a lot of time in the kitchen. With so many siblings, his parents worked, sending Twon to the kitchen at the young age of 10 to cook for his family. One of those family dishes of his youth inspired the Chicken Jambalaya Dog he created for B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.

“As I got older, I added my own flair to it, and I found out that it’s a generational thing. My grandmother made it for my mom, then my mom made it for us, and now I’m so excited that guests at Disney Springs get to try a piece of my heritage.” His version of the dish is a combination of smoked sausage, roasted corn and lemon caper aioli served on a Tuscan roll.

Cast Member chef cooking

One of the things Twon enjoys the most about cooking is watching people’s reactions when taking that first bite of a dish he has prepared. And serving his food to guests who visit Disney Springs from around the world, has given him the perfect stage to hone his craft.

“To be honest, Disney refined me in the culinary field. I’ve learned how to be organized, make sure that my flavors are on properly and how to build new flavors. I’ve grown so much with this company, and I feel my skills are at a place I never thought they would be.”

Join us in celebrating cast members like Kima and Twon during Celebrate Soulfully and all year long. If you haven’t tried the Jamaican Jerk Chicken Frites at The Daily Poutine or the Chicken Jambalaya Dog at B.B. Wolf’s, make sure to stop by Disney Springs soon – you won’t regret it!

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New Additions Coming to the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, Sprouting March 1

News, Special Events By January 19, 2023 No Comments

There is nothing lovelier than springtime at Walt Disney World! The days get longer, the weather warms up, and colorful flowers bloom across the landscape. And one of the best places to experience spring for yourself is at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. Beginning March 1 and continuing through July 5, this stunning festival features alluring gardens, whimsical topiaries, lively entertainment, beautiful merchandise and delightfully fresh cuisine.

Today, we have exciting news to share. For the first time, topiaries of Mirabel, Antonio, Isabela and Luisa from Disney’s “Encanto” will make a grand appearance at the festival. Located near the EPCOT main entrance, these new topiaries are sure to be a must-do photo moment to mark your visit. (But remember: We don’t talk about Bruno.)

And that’s not all. A new Princess Tiana topiary will grace The American Adventure. Plus, we also have returning favorites such as Snow White & the Seven Dwarfs; Peter Pan, Tinker Bell, Captain Hook and Tick Tock Croc; Figment; Anna and Elsa; and more.

The popular Garden Rocks Concert Series is back, featuring favorite tunes at the America Gardens Theatre. More details about the musical lineup will be released soon on the Disney Parks Blog.

Treat from the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

Get your taste buds ready; you’re in for a treat! More than 15 Outdoor Kitchens will offer specialty menus of scrumptious cuisine and beverages. One of my favorites is The Citrus Blossom which will move to a new location at Odyssey. With fresh new menu items, you’ll want to sample all the mouth-watering delights.

Of course, you can commemorate your visit with official ‘70’s inspired Orange Bird merchandise, including apparel, headwear, drinkware and much more.

Spike’s Pollen-Nation Exploration will have people abuzz again. This springtime scavenger hunt is fun for all ages. Follow Spike the Bee on his pollination trail, where he will “bee” busy collecting nectar and pollinating gardens at EPCOT. Once you find him in each garden on your map, add the corresponding sticker of the plant he is visiting.

EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival

On the bridge to World Showcase, you can enjoy the sights and scents of spring with Blossoms of Fragrance presented by Scentsy. Surrounded by vibrant butterfly topiaries, guests will be invited to follow their noses to six scent stations—to form lasting memories with the help of unforgettable aromas.

To experience the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival, you must have both valid admission and a park reservation for EPCOT on the same date. Keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more details!

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