During my most recent trip to Magic Kingdom to enjoy Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, I decided to dine at “Skipper’s Canteen.” Of course, as a theme park food blogger, I must point out the official name of this restaurant is “Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen.” I think you can see what most people refer to this place as Skipper’s Canteen. Also, this table service dining restaurant correlates to the Jungle Cruise attraction. I rode the Jungle Cruise attraction later in the evening after a meal at Skipper’s Canteen.
If you have ridden Jungle Cruise, then you know to expect lots of “corny” jokes. The Skipper’s Canteen continues that trend. So, expect plenty of jokes but do not expect good jokes.
On the evening I went I used mobile check-in for my advance dining reservation made with assistance of MouseDining.com. I then got comfortable in a chair in the covered outdoor waiting area. The Cast Member outside suggested I wait there. A few minutes later, I got a push notification from “My Disney Experience” telling me that my table was ready. I checked with the Cast Member. They said to continue to wait that my table was not actually ready yet. I understand these mix-ups happen. However, my spouse checked inside and was told that our table was indeed ready. Like I said, these things happen. Also, with Disney technology, we should know to double-check based on large number of glitches that commonly happen.
My main intention to visit Skipper’s Canteen involved ordering a new menu item, the “Skipper Dan’s Dan Dan Noodles.” These basically replaced the “Perkins Thai Noodles.” For the record, Disney Parks Blog recently said several new items existed here. However, a few of those have been around for a while. These noodles started appearing on menu at Skipper’s Canteen in mid-July unlike the Hangar Steak advertised as new but it arrived way earlier in year.
This noodle entrée costs $26. The menu description reads “thin noodles tossed in a savory spicy chili sauce topped with crispy pork, pickled mustard greens, radish, and cucumbers.” The server warned me that these noodles would be spicy. Yet, they used to do with the Perkins noodles sometimes also. I would not define the Perkins noodles as spicy previously.
Dan Dan Noodles with Tofu
So how were these when I had them? In fairness, these noodles did offer some legitimate spice. I would define it as spicy by theme park levels. Still, this would not be as spicy as if you ordered this at a more authentic dining establishment somewhere else. In comparison to the “spice heat” level of several of the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party food items I would try later, this paled in comparison on spicy heat scale.
The flavor of this deserves consideration. The spice level fits this dish well. Most importantly, the components all brought decent flavor with them. Compared to Dan Dan Noodles served at other area theme park resorts, this makes a better option. Also, the seasoned pork brings a nice flavor to this dish. The pork also came well prepared.
My Dan Dan Noodles
However, this one comes with a higher price point than other places. The standard peril of being hungry within Magic Kingdom causes budget concerns. Yet, $26 for this within Magic Kingdom rates as expected. I found the portion size a bit smaller than expected though. Though the vegetables provide nice flavor, I struggled with the texture of them. I have issues with some cooked vegetables regarding texture so this might not be a surprise.
As expected, this new menu item fits the pattern and theme at Skipper’s Canteen. The food here will rarely blow you away. However, the food should always function as a good option. Can you find better options at Walt Disney World? Yes, however, at this price point within Magic Kingdom, a better value for this level of food might be tough to find. You will need to enjoy a touch of spicy food with your meal for this one. All in all, I see this new menu item as a good inclusion to Skipper’s Canteen. As always, eat like you mean it!
Ghosts, ghouls, and foodie lovers alike – the time has come for ghoulish sweets and treats to invade Disneyland Resort. This Halloween season, which runs from September 2 through October 31, all across this magical place you’ll find goodies that have been masterfully concocted by Disney chefs and mixologists. And let me tell you, these goodies are not to be missed!
Your tastebuds will be transported to the Halloween celebrations happening throughout the resort. At Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor, the mouthwatering Rocky Road Halloween Sundae will put a spell on you. Over at the Pacific Wharf Café, the Chocolate-Espresso Bread Pudding is sure to catch your eye. And what better way to commemorate your Halloween adventure than with the Zero Light-Up Premium Bucket?
Once you see all of these eats and sips, you’ll want them all in your treat bag. So, let’s get to it!
Disneyland Park
Alien Pizza Planet (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Supernova Pizza Special: Spicy blush sauce, Italian sausage, classic and crispy cupped pepperoni, mozzarella, pepper jack, red pepper flakes, and Fresno chiles
Vampire Alien Macaron filled with blackberry buttercream and lemon curd
Carnation Café (Available August 31 through November 10)
Spicy Chicken Sandwich: Hand-breaded fried chicken breast tossed in spicy chili sauce with pepper jack and mustard slaw on a brioche bun
French Market Restaurant (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Galactic Grill (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Oktoberfest-inspired Burger: Angus beef patty, bratwurst, grilled peppers and onions, sauerkraut, and house-made mustard cheese on a pretzel bun (New)
Darth by Chocolate: Layers of chocolate pudding, red velvet sponge, chocolate mousse, and crushed chocolate creme-filled cookies
Blood Orange Slush with a swirl of raspberry sauce (Non-alcoholic)
Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor(Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Rocky Road Halloween Sundae: Rocky road waffle bowl, rocky road ice cream, marshmallow cream, hot fudge, and whipped cream topped with sprinkles (New)
Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Pumpkin Cheesecake: Classic pumpkin cheesecake decorated with a chocolate spider web and spiced Chantilly (New)
Mickey Bat Cookie: Citrus shortbread bat cookie dipped in dark chocolate with a vampire Mickey face
Market House (Available September 2 through November 10)
Mickey Bat Cookie: Citrus shortbread bat cookie dipped in dark chocolate with a vampire Mickey face
Mint Julep Bar (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Pumpkin-spiced Mickey-shaped Beignets rolled in pumpkin-spiced sugar
Plaza Inn
Monster Halloween Cake: Devil’s Food cake, colorful white chocolate mousse and buttercream (Available September 2 through November 10)
Classic Pumpkin Pie: Classic pumpkin pie with spiced Chantilly (Available September 2 through November 30)
Red Rose Taverne (Mobile order available)
Grave Stuff: Traditional grey stuff topped with chocolate tombstone and Halloween sprinkles (New) (Available September 2 through October 31)
Mickey Bat Cookie: Citrus shortbread bat cookie dipped in dark chocolate with a vampire Mickey face (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin Cold Brew: Cold brew flavored with pumpkin, vanilla, and spices topped with whipped cream (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Available September 2 through November 10)
Refreshment Corner (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Spicy Firefly Chips: Spicy corn chips topped with chili, cheese, and jalapeños (New)
Stage Door Café (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin Spice Funnel Cake: Pumpkin spice-dusted funnel cake with spiced caramel drizzle, toffee bits, whipped cream, and chocolate curls
Fantasyland Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin Pie Dip (New)
Frontierland Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Spicy Chocolate Churro: Cinnamon-dusted chocolate churro with a spicy cocoa dipping sauce
New Orleans Square Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pistachio-Cherry Churro: Cinnamon churro rolled in pistachio and sour cherry sugars and served with a side of ghost pepper grape sauce (New)
Tomorrowland Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin Spice Churro rolled in pumpkin spice flavored sugar (New)
Tomorrowland Pretzel Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Toffee Pretzel: Cream cheese-filled pretzel sprinkled with toffee sugar
Town Square and Sleeping Beauty Castle Churro Carts (Available September 2 through November 10)
Available at Various Locations Throughout Disneyland Park (COMING SOON)
Donald Candy Corn Sipper (New): Available at the following:
Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe
Little Red Wagon
Fantasyland and “it’s a small world” Churro Carts
Hungry Bear
Harbour Galley
Tomorrowland Fruit Cart
Rancho del Zocalo
Red Rose Taverne
Stage Door Café
The Golden Horseshoe
Mickey Mummy Glow-in-the-Dark Premium Bucket (New):Available at the following:
Ice Cream Carts
Popcorn Carts in Town Square, near Sleeping Beauty Castle, “it’s a small world,” Fantasyland, Tomorrowland, Frontierland, and New Orleans Square
Zero Light-Up Premium Bucket (New): Available at the following:
Ice Cream Carts
New Orleans Square Popcorn Carts
Disney California Adventure Park
Award Wieners (Available September 2 through October 31; Mobile order available)
Footlong Spicy Pulled Pork Dog: Sweet & spicy pulled pork with a fiery tropical chutney served on a toasted bun (New)
Oogie Boogie Funnel Cake Fries dusted with crushed chocolate creme-filled cookies and topped with whipped cream, cookie pieces, gummy candies, and chocolate candies
Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Hibiscus Sangria: Red sangria, cinnamon-spiced hibiscus agua fresca, and fresh fruit with a candied hibiscus rim
Cozy Cone (Available September 2 through October 31; Mobile order available)
Spicy Mac & Cheese Cone: Pasta with spicy red pepper cheese sauce topped with chili-cheese puffs
Fruity Sugar Churro: Churro tossed in fruity cereal sugar, topped with a purple and green glaze
Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream(Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Cereal Sundae: Vanilla and strawberry ice cream, berry compote, mixed cereal, and whipped cream served in a waffle cup and topped with fruity cereal (New)
Chocolate Brownie Sundae: Fudge brownie, rocky road ice cream, hot fudge, and a hard chocolate shell served in a chocolate-dipped waffle cup and topped with white chocolate chips (New)
Hard Apple Float: Hard apple cider and apple sorbet drizzled with caramel sauce (New)
Pumpkin Pie Hard Float: Hard pumpkin chai cider, vanilla ice cream, and a spiced pie crust cookie (New)
Fairfax Fruit Market (Available September 2 through November 10)
Blood Orange Lemonade: Blood orange agua fresca with lemonade (Non-alcoholic) (New)
Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Café (Available September 2 through November 10)
Oogie Boogie Worms and Dirt Cake: Chocolate cake filled with raspberry jam topped with mocha mousse, chocolate cookie, candy worms, and chocolate décor
Flo’s V8 Cafe (Available September 2 through October 31; Mobile order available)
Spicy Chicken and Fries: Steak fries drizzled with ranch dressing topped with chicken tenders tossed in mango-habanero sauce and finished with green onions
Hollywood Lounge (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Stone Delicious IPA Michelada with chile-lime seasoning and lime (New)
Ghost Pepper Michelada: Tomato-based michelada with ghost pepper syrup and Mala Suerte Mexican Dark Lager (New)
Modelo Especial Ghost Pepper Michelada with ghost pepper syrup, chile-lime seasoning, and lime (New)
Blue Rum Cocktail: Rum and orange liqueur with lemon-lime and cherry flavors (New)
Cranberry Sangria: Sangria and orange liqueur with cranberry juice (New)
Prickly Pear Vodka Cocktail: Vodka and prickly pear syrup mixed with lemon-lime and topped with a glow cube (New)
Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums (Available September 2 through October 31)
Jack-Jack Shortbread Cookie: Shortbread cookie dipped in chocolate with a Jack-Jack chocolate piece (New)
Lamplight Lounge – Boardwalk Dining (Mobile Walk-up Waiting List available)
Ghost Pepper Nachos: Charred ghost pepper-marinated chicken, smoky ghost pepper cheese sauce, black bean purée, avocado tomatillo salsa, and seasoned tomatoes (New) (Available September 2 through October 31)
Chile-Ginger Pork Belly Sliders: Chili-ginger-glazed crispy pork belly and Asian slaw on baguette buns (New) (Available September 2 through October 31)
Cucumber-Tamarind Cocktail: Patron Silver Tequila, cucumber simple syrup, tamarind simple syrup, and fresh lime juice garnished with a marigold (New) (Available September 2 through November 10)
Lamplight Lounge (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin-spiced Donuts: Warm fluffy donuts tossed in pumpkin-spiced sugar served with orange cream cheese dip and hot buttered rum sauce (New)
One Last Toast: Patron Silver Tequila, cucumber simple syrup, tamarind simple syrup, and fresh lime juice garnished with a marigold (New)
Mortimer’s Market (Available September 2 through November 10)
Vampire Mickey-shaped Sourdough
Pacific Wharf Café (Mobile order available)
Pastrami Sandwich: Ghost pepper cheese sauce and house-made sauerkraut on a toasted French roll (New)(Available September 2 through November 10)
Chocolate-Espresso Bread Pudding with crème anglaise, whipped topping, gummy eyeball, and toasted pecans (New) (Available through November 10)
Pacific Wharf Cappuccino Cart (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Pumpkin Bundt Cake: Pumpkin-flavored cake filled with dulce de leche and cream cheese frosting finished with chocolate stem and mousse leaf (New)
Pumpkin-spiced Horchata Cold Brew: Creamy blend of cold brew, pumpkin-spiced rice, and cinnamon beverage (Non-alcoholic) (New)
Pumpkin-spiced Horchata Cold Brew with Irish whiskey (New)
Pym Tasting Lab (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Snack Molecules: Flavored popcorn, mini pretzels, honey-roasted peanuts, and popped sorghum with mini peanut butter candies (New)
Pym Test Kitchen (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Schmoozies! (Available September 2 through October 31; Mobile order available)
Minnie Witch Shake: Mint-chocolate chip shake with whipped topping and chocolate creme-filled cookie ears (Non-alcoholic)
Blood Orange Shake with whipped topping and strawberry sauce (Non-alcoholic) (New)
Smokejumpers Grill (Mobile order available)
Green Chile Double Burger: Two angus beef patties, roasted green chile salsa, and purple cabbage slaw served with poblano cheese dipping sauce (New) (Available September 2 through November 1)
Mint Shake topped with whipped cream, chocolate cookie crumbles, gummy body parts, and a chocolate-covered snack cake (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Available September 2 through November 10)
Cranberry-grape Punch: Cranberry and grape juices, ginger ale, blackberry syrup, blackberry purée, and orange flavor-filled boba (Non-alcoholic) (New) (Available September 2 through November 10)
Cranberry-grape Cocktail: Black vodka, cranberry and grape juices, ginger ale, blackberry syrup, blackberry purée, and orange flavor-filled boba (New) (Available September 2 through November 10)
Studio Catering Co. (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Ghost Pepper Potato Bites with ghost pepper cheese sauce, smoky bacon, and pickled jalapeños
Buena Vista Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Pumpkin Spice Churro rolled in pumpkin spice flavored sugar (New)
Grizzly Peak Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10)
Peanut Candy Churro rolled in peanut powder, sugar, and crushed peanuts drizzled with peanut butter sauce (New)
Hollywood Churro Cart (Available September 2 through November 10; Mobile order available)
Available at Various Locations Throughout Disney California Adventure Park (COMING SOON)
Donald Candy Corn Sipper (New): Available at the following:
Award Wieners
Boardwalk Pizza and Pasta
Chiller Cart in Pixar Pier
Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream
Corn Dog Castle
Hollywood Churro Cart
Pacific Wharf Café
Paradise Garden Grill
Smokejumpers Grill
Zero Light-Up Premium Bucket (New): Available at the following:
Popcorn Carts in Buena Vista, Grizzly Peak, and Pixar Pier
Disneyland Hotel
Coffee House (Available September 2 through November 2; Mobile order available)
Halloween Seasonal Cupcake: Choice of vanilla or chocolate cupcake
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (Available September 2 through November 2)
Bitter Daiquiri: El Dorado 15 Year Rum, Batavia Arrack, Giffard Banana, pineapple juice, Jerry Thomas Bitters, and mint, garnished with orchid, pineapple wedge, and lime wheel (New)
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel s Spa
GCH Craftsman Grill (Available September 2 through October 31; Mobile order available)
Halloween Pumpkin Donut: Cake donut dipped in orange-colored white chocolate
Mickey Mummy Donut: Black and white decorated cake donut
Jack Skellington Cupcake (New)
Hearthstone Lounge
Halloween Cocktail: Hanson of Sonoma Vodka, Luxardo Apricot, lemon juice, Orgeat Syrup, Peychaud Bitters, and Dr. Adam’s Teapot Bitters garnished with an orange wheel (New) (Available October 1 through November 1)
Dia de los Muertos Cocktail: Codigo Reposado Tequila, chambord, Dolin Dry Vermouth, Camparí, Angostura Bitters, and Dr. Adam’s Spanish Bitters garnished with a lemon twist (New) (Available September 2 through October 31)
GCH Holiday Cart (Available September 2 through October 31)
Poison Apple Cookie: Vanilla sugar cookie with white chocolate
Mickey Jack Skellington Cookie: Vanilla sugar cookie with white chocolate
Oogie Boogie Cookie: Caramel apple cookie filled with caramel (New)
Hocus Pocus Cookie: Vanilla sugar cookie dipped in white chocolate (New)
Gingerbread Zombie Cookie: Gingerbread cookie with white chocolate (New)
Halloween Cookie Box: Pumpkin Mickey sugar cookies, raspberry filled cookies, and chocolate chip cookies with chocolate candies (New)
Sanderson Sisters Crisped Rice Treat: Crisped cereal treat dipped in white chocolate (New)
Spooky Pretzel Sticks: Pretzel rods dipped in white chocolate (New)
Oogie Boogie Crisped Rice Treat: Crisped cereal treat dipped in white chocolate (New)
Waffle Shot with Milk: Cup-shaped waffle lined with chocolate with choice of milk, low fat milk, strawberry, or chocolate milk (Non-alcoholic) (New)
Waffle Shot with Liqueur: Cup-shaped waffled lined with chocolate with choice of Baileys, Grand Marnier, Captain Morgan, Jameson, or Rumchata (New)
Halloween Hot Chocolate: Hot chocolate with choice of Baileys, Grand Marnier, Captain Morgan, Jameson, or Rumchata
Downtown Disney District
Ballast Point Brewing Co. (Available while supplies last starting October 1)
Pumpkin Down Float: Scottish ale with hints of caramel, toffee, and a boatload of roasted pumpkin topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, pumpkin spice whipped cream, ginger snap crumbs, and a dulce de leche caramel sauce
California Churro (Available October 24 through 31)
Spooky Churro: A delicious churro rolled in cinnamon sugar, drizzled with peanut butter and chocolate sauce, and topped with peanut butter candy pieces
Kayla’s Cake (Available September 2 through 31)
Mummy Macarons with cookie and cream buttercream
Pumpkin Cheesecake Macaroons with white chocolate pumpkin ganache
La Brea Bakery Café
Kids Monster Pancakes: One orange and one green monster faced pancake with gummy worms and candy corn (New) (Available October 31 only)
The Midnight Painkiller Hard Kombucha: A tiki cocktail with pineapple, coconut, orange, and nutmeg
Ghoul’s Grog: Goslings Dark Rum and Goslings 151 with pineapple, orange, and grenadine (New)
Marceline’s Confectionery (Available September 6 through October 31)
Mickey Pumpkin Apple: Green Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel with marshmallow ears enrobed in orange-white chocolate and green, white chocolate leaf (New)
Minnie Witch Apple: Green Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel with marshmallow ears enrobed in milk chocolate and embellished with a purple skirt, orange chocolate dots, and white chocolate with hat
Mickey Sorcerer Apple: Green Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel with marshmallow ears enrobed in milk chocolate and embellished with a red sugar robe, yellow sugar bow, and white chocolate sorcerer hat
Skull Apple: Green Granny Smith apple dipped in caramel with marshmallow ears enrobed in red, white chocolate and green, white chocolate skull face
Mickey Mummy Marshmallow Pop: Mickey-shaped marshmallow pop covered in vanilla chocolate with dark chocolate eyes(New)
Halloween Marshmallow Wand: Marshmallows on a stick dipped in caramel, enrobed in milk chocolate, and drizzled with orange and purple, white chocolate
Minnie Cake Pop with Orange Bow: Chocolate cake pop and chocolate ears enrobed in milk chocolate and embellished with a white chocolate orange bow (New)
Dirt & Worms Cake Pop: Chocolate cake pop enrobed in milk chocolate, sprinkled with cookie crumbs, and embellished with a gummy worm(New)
Mickey Peanut Butter Rice Cereal: Mickey-shaped crisped rice treat dipped in peanut butter milk chocolate and covered in peanut butter candy
Mickey Spider Web Rice Cereal Treat: Mickey-shaped crisped rice treat dipped in orange, white chocolate with a black dark chocolate web
Oogie Boogie Rice Cereal Treat: Crisped rice treat dipped in green, white chocolate and embellished with a black dark chocolate face
Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available September 2 through October 31)
Spookychino: Naples famous cappuccino with edible scary spiders and insects (Non-alcoholic)
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen (Available September 26 through October 31)
Candy Corn Cream Soda: Monin Candy Corn Syrup, vanilla, soda, and a splash of cream garnished with candy corns (Non-alcoholic) (New)
Candy Corn Cream Cocktail with Pinnacle Cake Vodka (New)
Sprinkles (Available October 17 through 31)
Peanut Butter Cup: Chocolate cake filled and topped with peanut butter frosting ladled with chocolate ganache and finished off with mounds of mini peanut butter cups
Tortilla Jo’s (Available September 2 through October 31)
Ghostly Brew: Mi Campo Tequila Blanco, agave nectar, black activated charcoal, and refreshing cucumber organic margarita mix (New)
Uva Bar & Cafe (Available September 2 through October 31)
Bootini: Galliano, Absolut Mandarin, white chocolate, and cream garnished with blueberries (New)
Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party (SOLD OUT)
If you’ve already got your tickets to one of the sold-out nights of Oogie Boogie Bash – A Disney Halloween Party at Disney California Adventure park, there are tons of sinister sweets and treats for you to indulge! With items like the Loaded Buffalo Chicken Fries at Flo’s V8 Cafe, or the strawberry-flavored Pain Churro and the raspberry-flavored Panic Churro, there’s a perfect blend of sweet and savory to try. You can also take a walk on the villians side with the delicious Mistress of Evil Chocolate Cake from Wine Country Trattoria.
There you have it – all the ghoulish goodies coming to Disneyland Resort this Halloween season. I know my list of must-try treats is filled. Which ones are you most excited to indulge in?
(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
If you read this article title correctly, you may now be intrigued, confused, or perhaps both. When I planned my visit to Raglan Road restaurant in Disney Springs, this newer appetizer caught my eye. My love and admiration for well-prepared donuts can be found throughout the internet. However, I do not believe I have ever consumed a chicken donut. Is Raglan Road trying to merge flavors like Salt & Straw does with ice cream? Perhaps Ian Malcom, from the Jurassic Park movie, would say, “Your chefs were so preoccupied with whether they could, they didn’t stop to think if they should.” After I try this, will I think of doughnuts the same again? Will I run to Everglazed, also in Disney Springs, to remember what extravagant doughnuts should look and taste like? I ordered this with excitement and a touch of fear all at same time.
Despite that, I visited Raglan Road intending to enjoy (or survive) this “donut.” Raglan Road enjoys creating unique menu item titles and descriptions. The “Chicken Donut” menu description starts with the words “(yes you read that correctly).” Apparently, I joined a large group of people fascinated but checking our glasses when reading this item on menu. The rest of the menu description continues by telling us to expect a savory donut hole stuffed with chicken, wild mushrooms. This donut comes topped with savory maple glaze, crispy chicken, and bacon crumbs. Just so our parents do not scream at us for this food decision, the chefs provide us a pickled salad to balance the donut. The “Chicken Donut” costs $18.
Photo by Jon Self
Before discussing the quality of this appetizer, I have a few clarifications for Raglan Road. Though this donut portion size would not compete with extravagant theme park doughnuts, this fails to be a donut hole. In fact, when I ordered it, it came in shape of a doughnut with a hole in middle. If you are visualizing a doughnut hole from your favorite local doughnut shop, think again. Also, this creation tastes crisp on the outside with “filling” on inside. I would have called this a chicken filled doughnut.
Photo by Jon Self
So how did this taste? First, the pickled salad tastes exactly as it should. I would have preferred the carrots a bit softer, however. Also, expect the carrots to soak up more of the vinegary taste. Yet, the quality of this pickled salad rates high. For the record, I generally dislike pickled salads but enjoyed this. Having eaten the “donut”, the salad balances it very well.
Regarding the donut proper, the outer coating felt very crisp—probably too much when I had it. Yet, if trying to create imagery of fried filled doughnut, that outer shell works. I, and others with me, though outer shell created a difficult barrier to cut though
The portion size for these rates as above average. This functions as a sharable appetizer. Yet, guests may find the $18 price tag a bit high for something donut size with a tiny salad.
The best aspect of this donut revolves around the filling. When you get a bite containing some outer crispy shell, the filling, and some salad, this appetizer works great. I found myself surprised how well the flavors balance. Individually, the salad and outer coating decrease in enjoyment. The bacon crumbles taste great. However, for my donut, the bacon moved to one section. I experienced bacon overload in that bite. Despite that, the bacon and maple glaze serve this donut well. Also, the filling tasted fabulous. I would have loved more of that by itself.
Photo by Jon Self
On the less positive note, the nature of this donut leads to a battle for your taste buds. Clearly, many flavors demand your attention as you eat this. Some guests will experience too many flavors. However, my main criticism involves the filling being overwhelmed. The outer shell tended to dominate the quality filling in many bites. The combination of fried texture and softer creamy texture sounds great. Still, in this case, on this night, we got too much fried texture.
Promotional photo from Raglan Road
Would I order this again? I might. However, I would not plan an evening at Raglan Road just to get this appetizer. Yet, if I went with a group and someone wanted to order it, I would not discourage them.
Promotional Photo by Raglan Road
Raglan Road offers great entertainment during your meal. Perhaps, in addition to the quality of food, that explains why this restaurant consistently ranks high in terms of Disney Springs restaurants being searched for in terms of reservations. MouseDining.com can help with this type of reservation, of course. As always, eat like you mean it!
The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is in full gear! There are so many amazing foods to try. This year’s festival menus were filled with recipes to share with the home cook. One dessert that really stood out was the Rocky Road Cake at the Flavors from Fire Global Marketplace.
Favorite desserts to bake are ones that look time-consuming and difficult but are secretly easy to make. This Rocky Road Cake is a perfect example of that. The cake is delicious and does not take much more time than a standard chocolate cake. The individual cakes topped with marshmallows, almonds, and ganache really set this apart from an everyday chocolate cake. Rocky Road Cake is going on your list of desserts to make again…. and now it’s time to share the recipe!
ROCKY ROAD CAKE – EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Serves 8
SPICY SUGARED ALMONDS
1/3 cup plus 1 teaspoon sugar, divided
1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon ground cayenne
3 tablespoons water
3/4 cup unsalted almonds
CHOCOLATE GANACHE
6 ounces dark chocolate, chopped
2/3 cup heavy cream
CHOCOLATE-BUTTERMILK CAKE
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 egg
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup hot water
TOPPINGS
1 cup mini marshmallows
Sea salt
Reserved chocolate ganache
FOR SPICY SUGARED ALMONDS:
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper; set aside.
Combine 1 teaspoon sugar with the cinnamon and cayenne in a small bowl; set aside.
Stir remaining 1/3 cup sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat until boiling. Carefully add almonds and stir frequently for 8-10 minutes, until water evaporates. Continue stirring for 2-3 minutes, until sugar begins to caramelize. Sprinkle cinnamon reserved mixture over almonds and stir to mix.
Carefully pour almonds onto prepared baking sheet, separating with spatula.
Cool completely, then coarsely chop. Store in airtight container up to 3 days.
FOR CHOCOLATE GANACHE:
Spray eight 6-ounce ramekins with non-stick cooking spray; set aside.
Place chopped chocolate in a medium glass bowl.
Bring heavy cream to simmer in small saucepan over medium heat. Pour over chocolate. Let chocolate sit for 5 minutes, then stir until smooth.
Place 1 1/2 tablespoons of ganache in each ramekin and refrigerate for 20 minutes.
Keep remaining ganache at room temperature until ready to serve.
FOR CHOCOLATE-BUTTERMILK CAKE:
Preheat oven to 350°F.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Add egg, oil, and buttermilk. Whisk to combine. Carefully add boiling water and whisk until batter is smooth.
Remove ramekins filled with ganache from refrigerator and fill each with 1/3 cup cake batter. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool 5-10 minutes before serving.
TO SERVE:
Carefully remove cakes from ramekins. Top each rock road cake with 2 tablespoons of mini marshmallows and 1 tablespoon of spicy-sweet almonds. Warm chocolate ganache in the microwave for 30 seconds on 50% power. Drizzle ganache over each cake and sprinkle with sea salt.
Note: Always use caution when handling sharp objects and hot contents. Please supervise children who are helping or nearby. This recipe has been converted from a larger quantity in restaurant kitchens. The flavor profile may vary from the restaurant’s version.
Since it’s World Princess Week, we want to celebrate with Tiana- the princess who loves to cook. The EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Princess Tiana Collection recently debuted with an assortment of Tiana-themed kitchenware and apparel. To add a little extra magic, pick up some of the Tiana-inspired merchandise and enjoy using it while baking or displaying your Rocky Road Cakes.
If you have an advance dining reservation to Space 220 in Epcot, consider yourself lucky. In terms of desired table service dining options at Walt Disney World, this place ranks as one of most desired on the resort property. This themed dining experience functions with a prix fixe menu. The lounge/bar area enables guests to order a la carte, however. This relatively new restaurant resides near the Mission Space attraction. The anticipation and fanfare for this place opening was impressive.
If you display the proper balance of skill and luck to get an advance dining reservation at Space 220, there exist a few things for you to know before you arrive. When you arrive, you may find a queue awaiting you. However, once you get inside, you get your boarding pass for your trip to “space.” From there, you are escorted down a hallway to the elevator to go to space. Be prepared at this point to be asked if you have eaten in space before. If you came up with a funny answer, I would love to hear them. While traveling in this elevator, you can view down toward Epcot or above to see where you will end up in “space.” The theming builds on you travelling 220 miles into space thus the name Space 220.
Photo courtesy of Vacationeers Podcast
At the end of your space elevator ride you will “dock” with the space station. At this point, a Space 220 agent will meet you as you leave the elevator. You then take your boarding pass down to the space agent at the end of a corridor. At this point, you have arrived at the “Centauri” space station in this thematic presentation.
Whether you enjoy this theatre style presentation of you taking an elevator to space or not, you must compliment the skill at which it is done. The screen technology could be better. Still, it serves this restaurant very well.
Once you are seated, you should be able to casually view the “video screen/windows.” The screen technology functions as quality entertainment. Some guests felt that the characters periodically floating by “outside” take away from overall theme after a little while.
Photo courtesy of MainStMagic.com
Okay, so, how does the food taste? Just to be clear, a common narrative about Space 220 has developed online that the food tastes poor. That narrative qualifies as unfair. The key question involving Space 220 relates to price point. This place will hurt your bank account. The lunch option cost $55 and the dinner cost $79. Remember, these prices reflect quality table-service dining with the price fixed menu. The lunch comes with an appetizer and entrée. The dinner also includes a dessert. If an alcoholic beverage is desired, you should plan on paying top dollar. In simple terms, plan on spending a significant amount of money for your space meal.
Photo courtesy of Main Street Magic Podcast
The flavor quality of the appetizers (they call them liftoffs here) rates above average. The most mentioned standouts are four-fold. They are:
Big Bang Burrata (Burrata di Mozzarella, Grilled Artichoke Hearts, Arugula, and Sunflower Seed Romesco)
Starry Calamari (Fried Calamari, Italian Cherry Peppers, Spicy Marinara, and Roasted Pepper Citrus Aioli)
Blue Moon Cauliflower (Tempura Fried Cauliflower, House made Hot Sauce, and Blue Cheese Dust)
At least in terms of value with the prix fixe menu, the entrées struggle a bit in terms of being worth the money paid. In my opinion, the lunch entrées fail to measure up. They taste good but nothing special overall. For example, you can select burgers, steak salad, pasta dishes, chicken, and steak & frites. The dinner entrées reflect the higher price. Still, most guests find the price paid not worth the money spent even on the theming. Once again, the food here tastes good. However, you will wonder if the steak, duck, or salmon you ordered was good value. On a more positive note, I have only heard good things about the desserts at Space 220.
Photo courtesy of MainStMagic.com
As you can tell, I find it tough to recommend the Prix Fixe menu table service dining here. However, I suggest you make a reservation for the Space 220 Lounge. Of course, MouseDining can help with that. Still, the lounge dining option allows you to just order what you want. I have heard very few complaints about dining at the lounge. The only real criticism involves not being able to see the “windows/screens” very well since facing the bar.
Photo Courtesy of Vacationeers Podcast
In my opinion, for most people, this restaurant qualifies as a one-time experience. I doubt many people will desire to come back for the table service dining prix fixe menu very often. I can see people enjoying the lounge options often though.
On the positive side, this place offers great air conditioning, excellent theming and video technology, great service, food arriving quickly at the table, and above average food quality. On the negative side, I see questionable value of prix fixe menu, high beverage prices, and the setting is dark making reading menu tough.
Photo courtsy of Main Street Magic Podcast
If going here, get yourself a lounge reservation or try walk-up there. You can enjoy the “space” experience for way less money that way. As always, eat like you meant it!
Hear ye, hear ye! You are cordially invited to indulge in the delicious eats and sips coming to both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort in honor of World Princess Week. From August 21 through 27, this celebration will highlight some of your favorite characters and feature some tasty treats to enjoy along the way.
There are plenty of treats on both coasts, including the lovely Snow White 85th Anniversary Petit Cake, yes 85th, from Amorette’s Patisserie at Disney Springs and the Tangled Loaf Cake over at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa. And there’s much more than just food. From merchandise, entertainment, and special announcements, the week will be the ultimate celebration honoring our classic Disney royalty. Stay tuned throughout the week for daily princess fun coming your way.
We present to you the Foodie Guide to World Princess Week at Disney Parks!
Walt Disney World Resort
Magic Kingdom Park
Cinderella’s Royal Table
Lost Slipper: White chocolate mini slipper with white cremeux pearls tucked inside a milk chocolate dome served with hot caramel
Friar’s Nook
Snow White Cone: DOLE Whip lemon, blue cone, chocolate bird, and sugar bow
EPCOT
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe
Anna & Elsa Cookie: Sugar cookies with chocolate ganache
Oasis Sweets and Sips
Jasmine Cookie: Sugar cookies with apricot jam
Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue
Tiana Banana Pudding
Sunshine Seasons
Anna & Elsa Cupcake: Strawberry cupcake with strawberry filling and strawberry buttercream topped with a chocolate crown
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Catalina Eddie’s
Enchanted Rose: Dark chocolate, blackcurrant, and morello cherry mousse with whipped cookies ‘n cream fluff, and gilded chocolate-covered cacao nibs on a shortbread cookie
Dockside Diner
Seaside Brownie: Chocolate brownie topped with white chocolate ganache and seaside garnish
Snow White 85th Anniversary Petit Cake: Vanilla chiffon cake layered with apple mousse and cinnamon mousse with white chocolate crunch pearls (New)
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park
Snack Shack
The Moana Cone: Coconut soft-serve and DOLE Whip strawberry swirled into a chocolate coconut dipped waffle cone with white chocolate and an edible flower (New)
Resorts
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Landscape of Flavors
Mermaid Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake filled with pineapple topped with a coconut buttercream and a white chocolate mermaid tail (Availability will continue past August 27)
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Contempo Café
Cinderella Cupcake: Vanilla cake with vanilla crème custard filling, butter cream, white chocolate slipper, and fondant pumpkin
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Gasparilla Island Grill
Perfectly Princess Cupcake: Vanilla sponge cupcake with pink buttercream ruffles, white nonpareils sprinkles, and Princess white chocolate coin
Disney’s Polynesian Village
Kona Island Coffee Bar and Capt. Cook’s
Moana Mini Cake: Vanilla cake, mango mousse, and a wave of glaçage, buttercream, fondant, and white chocolate décor (New)
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory
Wishing on Stars: Olive Oil cake, banana cream pie mousse, white chocolate Feuilletine crunch, and white chocolate glaçage (New) (Availability will continue past August 27)
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Le Petit Café
Aurora Fruit Tart: Diplomat cream, raspberry mousse, and fresh berries with a white chocolate crown (New)
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa and Disney’s Old Key West Resort
The Artist’s Palette and Good’s Food to Go
Snow White Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake filled with a spiced caramel apple filling topped with caramel buttercream, red chocolate dip, and a red bow
Disneyland Resort
Disneyland Park
Red Rose Taverne
Coconut-Strawberry Lemonade featuring Minute Maid Zero Sugar Lemonade (New)
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa
Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa Holiday Cart
The Princess and the Frog Macaron: Mint chocolate chip French macaron (New)
Princess Gown Cookie: Sugar cookie with royal icing (New)
Tangled Loaf Cake: Lemon-blueberry flavored cake with vanilla buttercream (New)
Mermaid Crisped Rice Treat: Crisped rice treat with seashells, mermaid tail, and pearls (New)
Princess Cookie: Sugar cookie with white chocolate icing (New)
Princess Cookie Box with assorted cookies (New)
Princess Waffle Shot with Milk: White chocolate-coated pistachio waffle shot with choice of milk, low-fat milk, strawberry, or chocolate milk (New)
Princess Waffle Shot with Alcohol: White chocolate-coated pistachio waffle shot with choice of Baileys Irish Cream, Grand Marnier, Captain Morgan Rum, Jameson Whiskey, or Rumchata (New)
GCH Craftsman Grill
Princess Cupcake: Vanilla with buttercream, pearls, and a crown (New)
Princess Carriage Donut: Cake donut with white chocolate apples (New)
Available at Various Locations Throughout the Disneyland Resort
Princess Bubble Sipper includes choice of fountain beverage at time of purchase (New)
Available at the following:
Main Street, U.S.A. Fruit Cart
Town Square Churro Cart
Little Red Wagon
Sleeping Beauty Castle Churro Cart
Red Rose Taverne
Maurice’s Treats
Edelweiss Snacks
“it’s a small world” Churro Cart
Downtown Disney District
California Churro
Princess Churro: A strawberry filled churro dusted with delicious pink strawberry sugar and served with a side of cream cheese frosting
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes
The Mermaid CrazyShake: Blueberry shake with vanilla-frosted rim and mermaid sprinkles topped with a mermaid tail, pearl clam shell, fish lollipop, whipped cream, and mermaid sprinkles
Splitsville Luxury Lanes
Pink Paloma: Tequila combined with pink grapefruit juice, agave syrup, premium grapefruit soda, and freshly-squeezed lime juice
Disneyland Paris
Disneyland Park
Auberge de Cendrillon
Kingdom of Kumandra Mocktail: Raya-inspired mocktail featuring guava, papaya, green apple, orange, and lemon with falernum syrup
The Old Mill
Arabian Nights Cornet featuring pieces of strawberries
Cinderella’s Delight: White chocolate-coconut ganache
Plaza Inn Restaurant
Disney Princess Macaroons: Blackcurrant, vanilla, mint, raspberry, and strawberry
Victoria’s Home-Style Restaurant
Sleeping Beauty Charlotte Cake: Strawberry mousse, Reims pink biscuit, and strawberry coulis
Walt’s – an American Restaurant
Kingdom of Kumandra Mocktail: Raya-inspired mocktail featuring guava, papaya, green apple, orange, and lemon with falernum syrup
Be sure to check out both the Walt Disney World Resort app and the Disneyland Resort app for items available on mobile order.
I hope you’re as excited for these delicious delights as I am. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled for all the announcements throughout the next week on the Disney Parks Blog and our social channels!
(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
It’s no secret that the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Fort Wilderness has been one of the most desirable Walt Disney World reservations since its reopening in July 2022. So we were so excited when one of our favorite Disney creators, Brenda (she has incredible Disney content all year round!), told us she used MouseDining to land a reservation for dinner.
Brenda tried and failed to get her weekend reservation three times on her own before she decided to sign up for the MouseDining service. After updating her account, it only took a few hours before she got a text alert that her desired reservation time had been locked in!
We loved how Brenda joined in on the festivities and embraced the Western theme of this Disney dining experience by dressing the part with Chip and Dale themed overalls and braiding her hair.
Check out her Disney “get ready with me” video for a sneak peek at this Fort Wilderness dining favorite!
She was blown away by the live stage performance and dug into a big plate of ribs and mac n’ cheese. Brenda loved the interactive show experience and the bottomless sangria was a welcome addition, too!
Brenda said, “So impressed with Hoop-Dee-Doo, it was such a fun show and the food was amazing! So happy I was able to get a reservation thanks to MouseDining. If you are looking for a way to score a reservation for a popular spot like this one, try it out!”
Here’s a quick rundown of the The Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue restaurant highlights:
The Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue is an all-you-can-eat-and-drink style dinner.
There are three time slots available daily at 4 PM, 6:15 PM, and 8:30 PM.
There are three, flat rate dining options to choose from ranging in price from $66 to $74.
This Disney restaurant has been delighting Guests since 1979
Famous for being one of the longest-running dinner show theaters in the country
It is also wildly popular and touted one of the best Disney dining reservations considering the value offered for the price.
Click here to try MouseDining for yourself and make your next Disney dining reservation magical – just like Brenda!
In a previous article, I suggested the best table burgers within the four Walt Disney World theme parks. In terms of burger quality, the better options reside outside the theme parks. A few counter service locations at the Walt Disney World Resort offer quality burgers at the resort hotels. D-Luxe Burger, in Disney Springs, provides a good counter service burger. Some excellent burgers can be found at lounges around Walt Disney World Resort. My top suggestions for those type places would be the Bison Burger at Geyser Point or The Three Bridges Signature Burger over at Three Bridges Bar and Grill.
However, you may be a burger person, but your group wants to do a table service dining experience. If you are that type of person, I have numerous suggestions for places where you can get a quality table service burger. In most cases, your burger might taste more gourmet than their table service dining entrees.
Before elaborating, my recommendations come from chatting with many theme park media colleagues. Though I have some strong opinions about these burgers, this list functions as a consensus of various perspectives. Once again, this list of six burgers only includes table service options not lounges or counter service options.
Photo courtesy of Main Street Magic Podcast
We will start this burger quest with lunch options. I have two excellent burgers only available during lunch dining hours. First, we will go to visit Steakhouse 71 in the Contemporary Resort. The Stack Burger arrived on the scene with immediate praise. Respected theme park experts called it the best burger on Walt Disney World property. Now, that praise should be considered. However, that pronouncement looks a bit overblown. In fairness, it makes my list. Back soon after Steakhouse 71 opened, I reviewed it. I agree that it makes a great burger. Everyone will consider it very good. Yet, not everyone will declare it the best on property. The Stack Burger features a signature blend of beef, American cheese, lemon aïoli, red onion, house-made pickles, on a brioche bun. This burger comes with a choice of side. I suggest the parmesan fries over petite wedge salad or pasta salad.
Back in July, I wrote an article with suggestions of the best table service burger in each theme park. All those burgers cost $21 or more. This Stack Burger costs $20. I suggest this burger tastes better than anything The Plaza restaurant will create for less money. The pro dining move when visiting Magic Kingdom would be to take an afternoon break to visit Steakhouse 71 for the food there. As you might expect, you will need a dining reservation even for lunch. However, you can mobile order this burger at lunchtime to speed up returning to Magic Kingdom if desired.
Photo by Jon Self
In terms of value for a burger on Walt Disney World property, a clear winner resides at STK Steakhouse in Disney Springs. From 11am until 3pm on weekdays, STK sells Wagyu Burger and Fries for $9.99. Before you think this is a tiny slider, think again. This burger features a 7oz Wagyu beef patty. Also, the beef patty itself tastes better than most table service burgers on Walt Disney World property. This burger comes topped with American cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, special sauce. You can pay an upcharge of $3 each for grilled onions, egg, or bacon. Adding avocado will cost $3.50.
Photo by Jon Self
I found this burger offers great value. In fairness, even if it was just average, it costs $10 with fries. You will need to search for a long time to find a decent burger and fries at a theme park resort for under $10. Fortunately, in this case, this burger tastes good!
Now, if you want a burger for around dinnertime for an evening meal, I have three suggestions. Now, all of these may be purchased at lunchtime also. First, the Bacon and Vermont Cheddar Burger at Ale and Compass sits atop many people’s list for table service burgers. This place resides within Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort in the Epcot Resort area. Menu description tells us that this burger comes with caramelized onion on a parker house bun with applewood-smoked bacon, lettuce, tomato, and herbed mayonnaise. This burger costs $20. In simple terms, this burger represents doing a standard bacon cheeseburger but doing it very well.
Photo courtesy of BrianAndAmanda.net
The other two suggestions come from Disney Springs restaurants. Ironically, one specializes in chicken and the other in Italian food. The Art Burger at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ makes another example of a normal style burger done well. The Art Burger features two beef patties topped with American cheese, Art’s special sauce, tomato-bacon jam, lettuce, tomato, onion, and pickles on a brioche bun. Then, you get house-made barbecue chips drizzled with icebox dressing. The burger and chips cost $18. In terms of quality and value, that works nicely.
Of all places, Terralina Crafted Italian offers guests a “Crafted Burger” for $21. This burger comes with house made truffle potato chips and garlic pickles. Also, the mixture of ground chuck and brisket creates a distinctive burger patty. The toppings of arugula, tomato, pickled red onion, cheddar cheese, chili-sage aioli within the toasted bun makes a solid burger. As odd as this sounds, the burger tastes light for such a hearty sounding burger.
Photo courtesy of Main Street Magic Podcast
No discussion of burgers at Walt Disney World should leave out the Lobster Thermidor Burger at Grand Floridian Café. I have already done a full review of that burger so click here for more specific about this excellent creation. Also, you can even get this burger for breakfast.
Walt Disney World offers some excellent burgers. In my opinion, these six burgers rate as the best table service dining options at Walt Disney World. Please give these a try and let me know if you disagree. If you think I left out a table service one, leave a comment or tell me via twitter (@pastorjonself). Of course, if these burgers sound good to you, consider setting up some alerts at MouseDining.com to book your advance dining reservations to enjoy then. As always, eat like you mean it!
I have developed a reputation for above average knowledge of food in Disney Springs area of Walt Disney World Resort. However, I learned something new today about dining at Disney Springs. I will get back to that but let me elaborate on something else first.
Regarding this reputation for Disney Springs dining knowledge, I think that might be exaggerated. Sure, most of the reviews I have written for MouseDining.com correspond to Disney Springs locations. Yes, I scheduled two entire days earlier this year just to dine in Disney Springs. Okay, maybe I booked a hotel in the Disney Springs area so I could walk to Disney Springs to eat for a trip later this year. I, also, took three different queries asking me about Disney Springs options today from theme park media or podcasters. Also, I just scheduled a podcast interview to simply talk about Disney Springs restaurants for a week from today. Even the friend of MouseDining, Jeremy Stein, let me come on his podcast to talk about some Disney Springs restaurants (among other things).
I have a day job, so I do not consider myself an expert on food. Yet, I eat, and I know things. Yes, I spell my name “Jon” with no “H” because the letter “H” is “Ew!” However, I would be slightly offended if you looked at me talking about food saying “You know nothing” like a famous pop culture “Jon” was told.
Remember I said I learned something today about dining at Disney Springs. As you may have guessed, it relates to breakfast. I get asked intermittently what to eat for breakfast during the week at Disney Springs. In fact, I often laugh when asked this. I suggest places like Earl of Sandwich, Everglazed Doughnut, Starbucks, and maybe even Erin McKenna Bakery NYC. Now, some Disney Springs restaurants offer phenomenal weekend brunch menus. What about Monday through Friday? The choice rate as basic. I love Everglazed and Starbucks. Yet, if you can wait until 10am for breakfast, I have a table service weekday breakfast for you to consider.
In fairness, I recently learned Raglan Road opens Monday through Friday at 10am for breakfast. I eat and know things, but I did not know this. That makes this place the only table service dining option available for breakfast during the week at Disney Springs. The breakfast menu items will be offered from 10am to noon during weekdays.
The breakfast menu items offered here are limited. Yet, guests dining at this time may also order off all day dining menu also. Three of the breakfast menu items listed are:
FULL IRISH-Full Irish Breakfast with Cheshire heritage pork Irish banger, black & white pudding, Irish bacon, roasted tomato, mushrooms, and fried eggs with boxty potato cake for $25. This item also appears on the weekend brunch menu.
BACON AND EGGS- Scrambled or fried eggs with boxty potato cake and Irish style rashers or American bacon for $19
FRENCH TOAST- Vanilla French toast with fresh fruit compote and crispy bacon for $19
Phot Credit: Raglan Road promotion photo
Yet, the fourth and final breakfast menu item comes with the unique name “Hipsters Lament.” I guess our Irish themed restaurant created some humor in a recovery breakfast of sorts. Maybe this menu item helps people who drink and do not remember. Still, the “Hipsters Lament” features smashed avocado, Irish bacon & poached eggs on sourdough. This also comes with chive butter, boxty potato cake and roasted tomato. This costs $21. Like the “Full Irish”, this appears on the weekend brunch menu as well.
So how is the “Hipsters Lament” for breakfast? Well, if you need something to replenish your system, this menu item meets that need. The avocado does not overwhelm this breakfast item. I mention that first since this is basically super powered avocado toast. The bacon and eggs come to your table well prepared. Still, they offer solid flavor but nothing extraordinary. The most common weakness voiced about this menu item would be the potatoes. The butter and tomato enhance this entrée. However, the quality rates as good but once again nothing special.
With a price point over $20 for breakfast, this lament could be for your bank account. Yet, with the portion size, this makes a filling breakfast. If a day of Disney shopping comes after breakfast, this choice will fuel you well to shop and avoid dropping
Would I go to breakfast at Raglan Road just to order this? I would respond negatively. However, if your group wants a sit-down style breakfast outside the theme park, this breakfast menu deserves consideration. If your plans include some time at Disney Springs, this breakfast provides a better option than the counter service/snack choices that are your alternative. I respect this review is a “wishy-washy” endorsement of Raglan Road weekday breakfast. Still, if one person in your group wants breakfast, then others can order off the main menu.
Now, my dining review schedule changes often. Still, I currently have two different advance dining reservations at Raglan Road for upcoming trips to Disney Springs. Though I cannot strongly endorse this menu item wholeheartedly, Raglan Road added several new menu items this summer. I plan to try some of them soon. Of course, MouseDining can help with getting challenging advance dining reservations like Raglan Road. Thanks for reading. As always, eat like you mean it!
With the assistance of MouseDining.com, I recently acquired two very hard to get dining reservations for my Orlando area “work” trip. As a result of this good fortune, I needed to adjust my dining schedule slightly. I cancelled a dining reservation in Disney Springs since it no longer worked with the new dining schedule. Since I also have a carriage ride scheduled at 7:00pm at Port Orleans-Riverside for that evening, I decided to book Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans-Riverside. In the tiny circle of theme park food bloggers, this place earned a reputation for being average at best. Yet, my decision led me to question everything I know about advance dining reservations at Walt Disney World.
Photo courtesy of BrianAndAmanda.net
I will attempt to explain. Then, I opened the My Disney Experience app. I went to make a dining reservation as I have done countless times. I searched for dinner times on the night desired. However, I did not see Boatwright’s available. I thought this perhaps was a glitch. Due to this, I checked other sources. I still saw no reservations available that night at Boatwright’s. This place, in the past, rarely filled all their reservations. I knew the food quality improved since reopening. However, I still sat surprised looking at no reservations available.
I did devise another plan that I think my spouse will appreciate before our carriage ride (BTW, she does not know about that- I think!). Yet, I needed to do more research into why a lowly regarded dining option would be full on a moderate crowd level weeknight. Yes, the food quality rates higher now. However, guests staying at Port Orleans-Riverside can take a relaxing boat ride to Disney Springs from their resort.
I found a plausible answer. Boatwright’s Dining Hall offers an all you care to eat option. The “All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Chef’s Platter” costs $35 here. This platter comes with ribs, Nashville hot chicken, smoked sausage, barbecued beef brisket, mashed potatoes, mac & cheese, roasted corn with Cajun butter, and green beans. The concept of unlimited food to a Walt Disney World guest sounds unbelievable. However, this table service location offers a $35 meal with unlimited food featuring 3 different types of meats. If my memory serves correctly, this all you care to eat options appeared on this menu only a few years ago. Perhaps coincidentally, the reservation at Boatwright’s got a little tougher to get here. Also, guest satisfaction went up slightly since reopening.
So how is this chef’s platter? I shall start with the best part, the barbecued beef brisket. By no means will this cause you to feel this is the best barbecued food you have ever had. However, the beef works being tender and full of positive flavor. In addition, the meat comes with the right level of juiciness. I think that the meat has a bit too much fat on it. However, I have heard other people I trust say this brisket tastes as good as other dining options at Walt Disney World.
The other two meat options, Nashville hot chicken and smoked sausage, bring positives to the table. Both provide decent flavor. In my opinion, this flavor works but not as much as the brisket. The quality of meat that the chefs start with pales in comparison to other Walt Disney World dining options though. Still, this is all you care to eat. If you find a piece you do not like, skip that one and ask for more.
The mac & cheese, corn, and green beans simply serve as filler for this meal. The corn and green beans do offer some needed nutrition for your vacation but not much else. Regarding the mac & cheese, the quality ratings from guests show inconsistent flavor and texture. Since Walt Disney World restaurants tend to offer well above average mac & cheese, please bear this in mind.
The mashed potatoes rank high in terms of this side dish on Disney property. The side comes prepared well with lots of butter to amplify the flavor.
Overall, with the exception of perhaps the brisket, nothing served with this platter tastes far above average. However, did I mention it was all you care to eat for $35? Sure, not everything with this meal shines. Yet, even outside the Disney bubble, you might struggle to find a table service place providing this type setting with this level of unlimited food for $35. Sure, they exist but not many as in years gone by. As always, eat like you mean it!
If you are staying at one of the Port Orleans hotels or nearby, Boatwright makes a reasonable option to consider. Unless you are unlucky like me, reservations can be acquired inside the 60 days window here. However, based on my experience, I suggest booking early and/or setting an alert at MouseDining.com. As always, eat like you mean it!
