Foodie Guide to Disney Springs Flavors of Florida

Foodie Guide By June 30, 2022 No Comments

It’s almost time for Flavors of Florida! From July 5 through August 14, over 30 restaurants and shops at Disney Springs will be celebrating fresh flavors from the Sunshine State. These locations are serving up a slice of summer with refreshing beverages and delicious dishes, all inspired by Florida. Let’s dive right into all the foodie fun!

Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Amorette’s Patisserie

  • Blood Orange Éclair – Éclair filled with triple blood orange mousse, topped with tangy citrus jam and candied blood orange.
  • Blue Citrus Sauvignon Blanc Slushie – Matua sauvignon blanc, Blue Curaçao syrup and lemonade. Served in a Flavors of Florida Corkcicle.

The BOATHOUSE

  • Coconut Panna Cotta – Coconut panna cotta, layered with mango gelée and topped with tropical fresh fruit, shredded coconut and a crispy coconut shortbread cookie.

Chef’s Art Smith’s Homecomin’

  • Southern Fried Hand Pies – A pair of fried pastries filled with moonshine-glazed strawberry compote and served with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream.
  • Blood Orange Margarita – Dobel Diamanté tequila with fresh-squeezed lime juice and blood orange purée, garnished with a fresh Florida orange.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Chicken Guy!

  • Florida Sunshine Shake – Hand-spun, vanilla, soft serve ice cream and fresh Florida orange juice, topped with whipped cream and garnished with an orange wheel. (Not available for online orders.)

City Works Eatery & Pour House 

  • Smokehouse Cuban – Hardwood-smoked pulled pork shoulder, ham, shaved hot link, smoked provolone, Robonaut Red mustard and spicy bread & butter pickles, on a Cuban roll.

Coca-Cola Rooftop Beverage Bar

  • Sunshine Orange Chill – St. Augustine vodka, orange juice, topped with Sprite and served in a souvenir Coca-Cola glass.

D-Luxe Burger 

  • Lime Garage Burger – Deluxe patty, topped with pepper jack cheese, pork belly and fried green tomato, served with an avocado, lime and jalapeno spread.
  • Orange Garage Burger – Deluxe patty, topped with pepper jack cheese, pork belly, lettuce, served with an orange and onion marmalade.
  • Orange Bird Milkshake – Artisanal shake made with vanilla gelato and orange, topped with sprinkles.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Dockside Margaritas

  • Strawberry Basil Margarita – Herradura reposado tequila and lime juice, with strawberry purée and garnished with shredded basil leaves.

Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC

  • Orange Blossom Cupcake – Moist vanilla cupcake, piped with orange-flavored frosting, topped with orange zest and a flower garnish. (Vegan, gluten-free and dairy-free.)

Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew

  • Citrus Dream Donut – Orange glazed donut with white buttercream, drizzled with orange icing and topped with an orange gummy and fresh mint leaf.
  • Orange Lemonade with Sweet Cream Foam – Limited-edition summer treat, made with fresh-squeezed orange lemonade and topped with sweet cream foam.

Frontera Cocina

  • Shrimp Ajillo Tostada – Tostada topped with roasted garlic-guajillo Florida pink shrimp, avocado, jicama, local heirloom cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, orange and a citrus-soy vinaigrette.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Gideon’s Bakehouse

  • Orange Pecan Chocolate Chip Cookie – An almost-half-pound vanilla bean cookie infused with orange essence and mixed with dark chocolate, covered in pecan pralines and candied orange peel.

The Ganachery

  • Strawberry Shortcake Chocolate Treats – Strawberry chocolate, white crisp pearls, speculoos cookie crumbles and strawberry crispies.

House of Blues Restaurant & Bar

  • Voodoo Shrimp – Sautéed Florida Gulf Shrimp in an Abita Amber beer reduction sauce, served over jalapeño-cheese cornbread.
  • Green Gator – Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum mixed with melon liqueur, simple syrup and pineapple juice.

Local Green Orlando Food Truck

  • Kingston Mango Pineapple Lemonade – Tropical flavors of mango and pineapple with refreshing lemonade.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar 

  • Florida Gulf Shrimp Tacos – Jerk-spiced shrimp served in a grilled corn tortilla with watermelon pico de gallo and topped with sliced jalapeno.
  • Jock’s Citrus Old Fashioned – A cocktail classic with a Florida summer twist.
  • Florida Mule – Florida cane vodka, ginger beer, orange juice and simple syrup. Served in a Flavors of Florida Corkcicle.

M&M’S Store 

  • M&M’S White Chocolate Key Lime Pie Candy – Brightly colored, white chocolate candies, available by the half-pound and pound from the color wall.

Outdoor Vending 

  • Blood Orange Gin & Tonic – St. Augustine Gin, Tipplers orange liqueur, blood orange Monin and tonic water, garnished with an orange wedge.

Paddlefish 

  • Key Lime Pie – A rich but tart key lime filling and airy toasted meringue.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

The Polite Pig 

  • Cuban Sandwich – Classic Florida sandwich made with crusty bread and piled high with sliced ham, roasted pork, cheese and dill pickles, spread with a tangy sauce.
  • Key Lime Mojito – Rum cocktail, mixed with fresh-squeezed lime juice and club soda, garnished with fresh mint sprigs and lime.

Rainforest Cafe

  • Key Lime Ceviche Tostada – Shrimp, scallop and mango ceviche, avocado mousse and cilantro-cabbage slaw with citrus vinaigrette, accompanied by cilantro lime rice and Cuban black beans.
  • Sailfish Brewing Sunrise City IPA – West coast-style IPA brewed with Columbus, Amarillo and Mosaic hops, featuring a smooth finish and notes of bitter citrus.

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant 

  • Home Grown Strip Steak – A 12oz cut, grass-fed and locally raised at Florida’s Adena Farms, served with béarnaise sauce, Cipollini onions, sautéed wild mushrooms and Raglan’s twice-cooked millionaire homemade chips.

Salt & Straw 

  • Strawberry Honey Balsamic with Black Pepper ice cream

Splitsville Luxury Lanes

  • Grilled Key West Pink Shrimp Salad – Grilled shrimp served over a spring mix with strawberries, oranges, cucumbers, tomato, parsley, onions and feta tossed in strawberry vinaigrette.
  • Spiked Guava Lemonade – Guava puree and fresh-squeezed lemon juice with St. Augustine vodka, topped with a splash of soda water.
Collage of dishes and beverages at Disney Springs inspired by Florida

Swirls on the Water 

  • Orange Bird DOLE Whip – Soft-serve DOLE Whip Orange topped with sprinkles and an Orange Bird garnish.
  • Watermelon DOLE Whip – DOLE Whip Watermelon piled high on a slice of fresh watermelon. Limited quantities available daily, while supplies last.

Terralina Crafted Italian

  • Italian Sangria – Special blend of cabernet sauvignon, brandy, peach and lemon, garnished with Florida orange slices and served by the glass or in a pitcher for four.

T-REX

  • Blackened Shrimp Salad – Salad greens dressed with Florida orange blossom honey and Key lime vinaigrette topped with blackened shrimp, seasonal berries and goat cheese croutons.
  • Oyster City Mangrove Pale Ale – Classic pale ale with a malty body and mild hops, fermented in mangos to add a tropical, fruit-forward flavor.

Vivoli il Gelato 

  • Pineapple and Coconut Shake – A rich and creamy shake made with pineapple and coconut sorbetto, topped with a mini pineapple and coconut layer cake.
  • Orange Blossom Gelato – Frozen Italian treat made with orange blossom pilsner beer and Savannah Bee orange blossom honey, served in a cup or waffle cone.
  • Key Lime Cannoli – A delicate pastry shell filled with sweet cream made of ricotta and key limes.

Wine Bar George 

  • Frozen Old Fashioned featuring DOLE Whip Orange. (Purchase a Wine Bar George limited edition Corkcicle and enjoy a complimentary frozen drink.)

You can pick up a Flavors of Florida event guide upon arrival at the Disney Springs Welcome Center or any participating location. With so many Instagram-worthy items that taste as good as they look, be sure to let us know what your favorite dish is on social media using #FlavorsofFL and #DisneySprings!

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D-Luxe Burger: Behind the Best Burger at Disney Springs

Restaurant Reviews By June 29, 2022 No Comments

D-Luxe Burger recently celebrated National Burger Day with a newly refreshed menu. With fan favorites and revitalized classics like the Classic Bacon Cheeseburger, Barbecue Burger and the Pizza Burger, there’s something for every palate.

Inside D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs

One of the new additions is the signature 1921 sauce – which actually is a callback to the history of D-Luxe Burger and Disney Springs. As the story goes, the Sinclair family discovered a beautiful natural spring in 1850 – in the area we know today as Disney Springs. The Sinclairs were cattle ranchers and settled along the spring, founding Glowing Oak Ranch. The oldest Sinclair son visited the St. Louis World’s Fair in 1904 where he tasted a new invention known as the hamburger. Inspired by this innovation, in 1921 (here’s where the signature sauce gets its name), the Sinclairs turned Glowing Oak Ranch into Glowing Oak Restaurant in the growing Town Center area. The thriving business was passed down through generations, and is now the D-Luxe Burger that we know and love today.

Decor inside D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs

Step inside and you’ll notice details and décor that are all a part of the history of D-Luxe Burger. The front part of the restaurant is what was originally the Sinclairs’ cabin. You can find the original, hand-written 1921 sauce recipe hung on a wall, along with postcards from the Sinclairs, posters announcing the grand opening of Glowing Oak Restaurant and more. And if you head to the back dining room, you’ll see the original Glowing Oak Ranch sign. Outside the restaurant, there is a large oak tree. When the Sinclairs first arrived, they held many a campfire under the tree, which inspired the name Glowing Oak Ranch.

D-Luxe Burger at Disney Springs

Here’s another fun fact: the hamburger buns are made daily at Amorette’s Patisserie! Be sure to stop by D-Luxe Burger next time you’re at Disney Springs.

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Church Lady Deviled Eggs from Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Disney Springs

Restaurant Reviews By June 28, 2022 No Comments

To some extent, we are all products of our life experiences. I know that I often show signs of my upbringing. Of course, sometimes I make decisions very differently than people my age with similar backgrounds. In fact, many people express shock with my decisions. As my current twitter handle (@pastorjonself) indicates, I express a certain worldview. For understandable reasons, ministers, like many vocations, get made fun of by comedians.

 

One of the classic examples of comedians making fun of USA church culture would be from Saturday Night Live. Yes, Dana Carvey introduced us to the concept of the “Church Lady.” The catchphrase “Well, isn’t that special” became part of pop culture during that time. For me, every time I hear about one of the very popular appetizers at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, that is all I can visualize. I realize for people of a certain age; I have ruined this excellent appetizer. If you are one of those people visualizing “The Church Lady”, I apologize. Please send all angry messages to my twitter account.

Photo Credit: Entertainment Weekly

Yes, I am talking about the “Church Lady Deviled Eggs” from Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’. Before I discuss this appetizer, I do not dislike deviled eggs. Yet, I fail to be a fan of them either. However, having served in vocational ministry in the USA and other countries, I have tasted my fair share of deviled eggs.

Also, I would like to apologize that more Homecomin’ dining reviews will be written over the next few months. I asked my spouse where she wanted to eat in Disney Springs. She quickly replies with Homecomin’. I may not know much. Still, if you ask your spouse a direct question and get a direct answer, respond appropriately. I quickly put in an alert at MouseDining for a lunch reservation for two. In fact, I have adjusted my lunch timeslot three times using MouseDining. If you are unaware, Homecomin’ presents some challenge in terms of getting a reservation.

Now, the Church Lady Deviled Eggs cost $13. Each appetizer order includes 6 of these eggs. You can order a half order if you only want three. However, you will want six! The menu description tells us to prepare to enjoy HFK-style whole deviled eggs. As mentioned, these eggs are not merely cut in half then filled like a common everyday deviled egg.  Some Art Smith voodoo happens making each deviled egg basically the size of a normal egg filled with yummy goodness. So do not visualize each one being half an egg. These deviled eggs will provide a nice solid portion size for groups of 4 or more to share.

The “filling” for each deviled egg functions with some voodoo power also. Why do I say that? Well, the filling offers an incredibly smooth texture. Even great tasting deviled eggs struggle with texture issues though. If you are person who avoids certain foods due to texture issues, these should be fine for you. Unlike most deviled eggs, the smooth consistency and steady flavor makes for incredible bites every time

Also, the flavor of the filling offers the expected mustard-based taste. However, the mustard, yolk mixture, and special HFK seasonings taste like they were intended to always be used this way.

Okay, I know I am overselling this appetizer at this point. Yes, sometimes guests find that these deviled eggs taste just average. However, those experiences work as an exception not the norm.

If these do not sound good enough, each egg comes with a piece of candied bacon on top. Yes, you just read candied bacon. Risking over over-selling again, visualize giving Chef Art Smith the ability to improve bacon. Clearly, no church potluck I have ever attended offered candied bacon on deviled eggs. However, I think that should be mandatory now.

In addition, the deviled eggs come delivered in a type of ceramic container. This container holds the eggs perfectly. Also with some Chef Art Smith voodoo, the container helps keep the eggs cool for your enjoyment.

The appetizer makes a great option if dining at the bar at Homecomin’. Now, I would not visit Homecomin simply for this appetizer. Yet, if you find yourself fortunate enough to have a reservation to dine here, this appetizer makes a great starting place for your meal. As I have written previously, Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ creates a challenge to get a reservation. I got a reservation for my next trip (in addition to one with spouse). Yes, I woke up at 4:30am to be ready to select a time 60 days in advance. Yes, the spots went quickly.

Historically, I have shown great proficiency in acquiring boarding passes for Walt Disney World new “e-ticket” level attractions. Yet, I confess that getting a dining reservation to some Walt Disney World restaurants early in the morning 60 days in advance stresses me more. If you want to lower that stress, MouseDining can help. Of course, no guarantees exist when it comes to anything related to Walt Disney World technology. However, the success stories using MouseDining bring hope for that long sought-after dining reservation. Good luck in planning your Walt Disney World dining. As always, eat like you mean it!

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Foodie Guide to the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival Beginning July 14

Foodie Guide By June 28, 2022 No Comments

The favorite time of year for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike is almost here – the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival! Starting July 14 and running through Nov. 19, this iconic festival serves up flavors from across six continents and unlocks unlimited fun through your tastebuds.

With more than 25 Global Marketplaces, indulge in cuisines from across the globe featuring the culinary mastery of the chefs and mixologists, who yet again do not disappoint. This year, there’s a brand-new marketplace The Fry Basket, featuring a true classic – French fries – as well as new items like the Chesapeake Crab Slider at Hops & Barley. And of course, there are returning favorites, including the can’t-be-missed Pão de Queijo Brazilian cheese bread.

There are tons of experiences for the entire family to enjoy, from jamming out to some classic tunes at the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare to Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak scavenger hunt throughout the park. To add an extra spin to your snacking, try Emile’s Fromage Montage, a flavorful food stroll featuring some of the tasty cheese dishes that can’t be missed. As you snack on these cheesy goodies, collect stamps by purchasing five of these items to redeem a special prize from Shimmering Sips. Be sure to pick up a Festival Passport to keep track of all your stamps and to see everything you can experience this year.

I don’t know about you, but my appetite is already growing just thinking about all the food coming this year. Without further ado, let’s get to the Foodie Guide to the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE!

Earth Eats hosted by IMPOSSIBLE (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items:

  • IMPOSSIBLE Burger Slider with wasabi cream and spicy slaw on a sesame seed bun (Plant-based)
  • IMPOSSIBLE Meatball with herbed polenta, rustic puttanesca sauce, and basil pesto (New) (Plant-based)

Beverages:

  • Strawberry Freeze featuring Twinings Lemon & Ginger Herbal Tea (non-alcoholic) (New)
  • Stephen Vincent Pinot Noir
  • Strawberry Freeze featuring Twinings Lemon & Ginger Herbal Tea with Ketel One Botanical Cucumber & Mint Vodka (New)

Shimmering Sips hosted by CORKCICLE (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items:  

  • Guava Mousse on a sugar cookie with coconut-lime whipped cream (New) (Plant-based)

Beverages:

  • Tropical Mimosa with sparkling wine and Minute Maid passion fruit, orange, and guava juices
  • Key Lime Mimosa with key lime sparkling wine and cranberry juice
  • Blood Orange Mimosa with sparkling wine and blood orange juice
  • Berry Sour Ale Mimosa: Boulevard Brewing Co. berry noir sour ale and sparkling wine (New)
  • Mimosa Flight
  • CORKCICLE Stemless Flute

Hawaii (Near Port of Entry; opening Aug. 11)

Food Items: 

  • Kālua Pork Slider with sweet-and-sour DOLE pineapple chutney and spicy mayonnaise
  • SPAM Musubi Nigiri with sushi rice, teriyaki-glazed SPAM, spicy mayonnaise, eel sauce, and nori (New)
  • Passion Fruit Cheesecake with toasted macadamia nuts (Emile’s Fromage Montage)

Beverages: 

  • Kona Brewing Co. Hanalei Island IPA
  • Florida Orange Groves Sparkling Pineapple Wine
  • AULANI Sunrise: Vodka, DOLE pineapple juice, and grenadine

Australia (Near Port of Entry)

Food Items: 

  • Grilled Sweet-and-Spicy Bush Berry Shrimp with pineapple, pepper, onion, and snap peas (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Roasted Lamb Chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Lamington: Yellow cake with raspberry filling dipped in chocolate and coconut (New)

Beverages: 

  • Coopers Brewery Pacific Pale Ale (New) 
  • Yalumba ‘Y’ Viognier (New)
  • Robert Oatley Chardonnay
  • Château Tanunda Grand Barossa Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Jansz Premium Rosé (New)
  • Wine Flight

Refreshment Port hosted by Boursin (Near Canada)

Food Items: 

  • Braised Beef Poutine: French fries, Boursin Garlic & Fine Herbs Cheese Sauce, cheese curds, and gherkin relish
  • Maple cheesecake with whipped maple bourbon cheese and candied pecans

Beverages: 

  • Frozen Mango Martini: Boyd & Blair Vodka with mango nectar and lemon

Canada

Food Items: 

  • Canadian Cheddar and Bacon Soup served with a pretzel roll (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • “Le Cellier” Wild Mushroom Beef Filet Mignon with truffle-butter sauce (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Beverages: 

  • Collective Arts Audio/Visual Lager
  • Château des Charmes Cabernet-Merlot Estate
Apple Crumble Tart

Appleseed Orchard (In Canada Far and Wide Theater)

Food Item: 

  • Apple Crumble Tart

Beverages: 

  • Frozen Apple Pie (non-alcoholic)
  • Cinnamon Apple Cider (non-alcoholic)
  • Bold Rock Imperial Apple Hard Cider (New)
  • Original Sin Hard Cider McIntosh
  • Blake’s Hard Cider Co. Saint Chéri Bourbon Barrel Aged Cherry
  • Cider Flight
  • Big Storm Brewing Co. Apple Blonde Ale
  • Playalinda Brewing Caramel Apple Pie Ale (New)
  • 3 Daughters Brewing Apple Pecan Brown Ale
  • Beer Flight
  • Apple Blossom Sky: Apple cider, ginger ale, apple brandy, maple syrup, and mini marshmallows
  • CORKCICLE Classic Tumbler

Ireland (Near the United Kingdom)

Food Items: 

  • Fisherman’s Seafood Pie
  • Roasted Irish Sausage with colcannon potatoes and onion gravy
  • Warm Chocolate Pudding Cake with Irish cream liqueur custard

Beverages: 

  • Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale
  • Bunratty Mead Honey Wine
  • Guinness Baileys Coffee Shake

Brazil (Between France and Morocco)

Food Items: 

  • Feijoada: Black Beans with crispy pork belly, Brazil nut pesto, and Ben’s Original Long Grain White Rice (New)
  • Pão de Queijo: Brazilian cheese bread (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)

Beverages: 

  • Xingu Brazilian Black Lager
  • Frozen Caipirinha with Cachaça

Belgium (Between France and Morocco)

Food Items: 

  • Beer-braised Beef served with smoked gouda mashed potatoes
  • Belgian Waffle with warm chocolate ganache
  • Belgian Waffle with berry compote and whipped cream

Beverages: 

  • St. Bernardus Witbier
  • Belgian Abbey Ale
  • Delirium Red Fruit Ale
  • Chilled Coffee featuring Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
  • Beer Flight

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco)

Food Items: 

  • Grilled Chermoula Chicken or Moroccan-spiced Lamb Kebabs with carrot-chickpea salad and garlic aïoli
  • Fried Falafel Pita with tahini sauce (Plant-based)
  • Stone-baked Moroccan Bread with hummus, chermoula, and Zhoug dips
  • Pistachio Cake with cinnamon pastry cream and candied walnuts

Beverages: 

  • 3 Daughters Brewing Fig Hard Cider
  • Bold Rock Ginger Turmeric Hard Cider
  • Stem Ciders Hibiscus Session Hard Apple Cider (New)
  • Fig Cocktail with white cranberry juice and fig vodka
  • Cider Flight
  • CORKCICLE Classic Tumbler

Greece (Near Morocco)

Food Items: 

  • Spanakopita
  • Griddled Cheese with pistachios and honey (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Lamb Gyro with shaved lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and tzatziki on warm flatbread (New)

Beverages: 

  • Mylonas Assyrtiko White Wine
  • Zoe Rosé
  • Kir-Yianni Naoussa Xinomavro Dry Red
  • Wine Flight

Hops & Barley (American Adventure)

Food Items: 

  • Chesapeake Crab Slider with tangy coleslaw and Cajun remoulade (New)
  • Hot Beef Sandwich with horseradish cream and pickled vegetables
  • Freshly Baked Carrot Cake with cream cheese icing

Beverages: 

  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Strawberry and Lime Wheat Ale
  • Lexington Brewing & Distilling Co. Kentucky Pumpkin Barrel Ale (New)
  • Lord Hobo Brewing Boom Sauce DIPA
  • Bold Rock Roast Coffee Hard Cider
  • Longevity Chardonnay
  • Tribute Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Beer Flight

Spain (Between Italy and Germany)

Food Items: 

  • Charcuterie with a selection of imported Spanish Meats, Cheeses, Olives, and an Herbed Vinaigrette (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Paella with Rice, Chorizo, and Shrimp (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Seafood Salad with Shrimp, Bay Scallops, Mussels, Extra Virgin Olive Oil, White Balsamic Vinegar, and Smoked Paprika (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Beverages: 

  • Estrella Galicia Cerveza Especial Lager
  • Kentia Albariño Rías Baixas (New)
  • Faustino VII Rioja Rosado
  • Quinta del ’67 Almansa Garnacha Tintorera (New)
  • Wine Flight

Germany

Food Items: 

  • Schinkennudeln: Pasta gratin with ham, onions, and cheese (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Roasted Bratwurst in a pretzel roll
  • Apple Strudel with vanilla sauce

Beverages: 

  • Gaffel Kölsch
  • Weihenstephaner Lager
  • Schöfferhofer Pineapple Hefeweizen (New)
  • Selbach-Oster Riesling
  • Beer Flight

The Alps (Near Germany)

Food Items: 

  • Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with alpine ham, baby potatoes, cornichons, and baguette (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with baby potatoes, cornichons, and baguette (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Warm Raclette Swiss Cheese with Riesling-poached pears, red wine-braised figs, candied pecans, honey, and cranberry toast (New) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)

Beverages: 

  • Wicked Weed Brewing Uncle Rick’s Pilsner (New)
  • Huber Vision Grüner Veltliner
  • Cave De La Côte Rosé Gamay
  • René Favre Dôle
  • Frozen Rosé
  • Wine Flight

Kenya (Near Refreshment Outpost)

Food Items: 

  • Kenyan Coffee Barbecued Beef Tenderloin with sweet potato and corn mealie pap and kachumbari slaw (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Piri Piri Skewered Shrimp with citrus-scented couscous

Beverage: 

  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Congo Pilsner
Spicy Githeri

Refreshment Outpost

Food Items: 

  • Spicy Githeri with white beans, pigeon peas, Ben’s Original Quinoa & Ancient Grains Medley, and kachumbari slaw (Plant-based)

Beverage: 

  • CORKCICLE Classic Tumbler

India (Near China)

Food Items: 

  • Crispy Paneer with mango-curry ketchup (New) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Potato and Pea Samosa with coriander-lime cream (New) (Plant-based)
  • Chicken Tikka Masala with fennel-spiced yogurt and naan bread (New)

Beverages: 

  • Mango Lassi (non-alcoholic)
  • Taj Mahal Premium Lager
  • Sula Brut Tropicale Sparkling Wine
  • Sula Chenin Blanc
  • Mango Lassi with Sōmrus Chai Cream Liqueur

The Swanky Saucy Swine (Near Disney Traders)

Food Items: 

  • Crispy Barbecued Pork Rinds with pimento cheese (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Soy-glazed Sticky Ribs with green onions and peanuts
  • Grilled Pork Shoulder Lettuce Wrap with charred corn salsa, pickled red onion, and cilantro-lime crema (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)

Beverages: 

  • Parish Brewing Co. SIPS Cabernet Franc Strawberry (New)
  • Rombauer Zinfandel
  • Bourbon Bloody Mary with Seaside Grown Bloody Mary Mix and Labrot & Graham Woodford Reserve Bourbon Whiskey

The Noodle Exchange (Near Disney Traders; opening Aug. 11)

Food Items: 

  • Traditional Spicy Vietnamese Beef Pho with shaved beef, mushrooms, and Thai basil (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Chinese Char Siu Pork Udon with mushrooms, bok choy, and soy pickled egg
  • Thai Shrimp and Coconut-Curry Rice Noodles with shiitake mushrooms and Thai basil (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Tofu Pho with mushrooms and Thai basil (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based)

Beverages: 

  • Playalinda Brewing Company Yaupon Brothers Green Tea Pale Ale
  • A to Z Riesling

Brew-Wing (Opening Aug. 11)

Food Items: 

  • Sticky Wings with Peanut Sauce and Grape Gel with Celery and Ranch (New)
  • Garlic-Parmesan Wings with celery and ranch (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Traditional Buffalo Wings with celery and ranch (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Sriracha-Lime Wings with celery and ranch (New)
  • Dry-rubbed Jerk-spiced Wings with papaya chili sauce with celery and ranch (New)
  • Crispy Brussels Sprouts with buffalo sauce (Plant-based)

Beverages: 

  • Ivanhoe Park Brewing Company Pineapple Vibes Blonde Ale
  • 3 Daughters Brewing Watermelon Wheat Ale (New)
  • Central 28 Beer Company Groveland Road Blood Orange IPA (New)
  • Beer Flight
  • Bold Rock Honeycrisp Hard Cide
  • Woodchuck Guava ‘Nother Hard Cider (New)
  • Blake’s Hard Cider Co. Strawberry Lemonade Hard Cider (New)
  • Cider Flight
Fry Flight

The Fry Basket (Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)

Food Items: 

  • Adobo Yuca Fries with garlic-cilantro aïoli (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Plant-based)
  • Fry Flight (New)
    • Sea Salt and Malt Vinegar Fries (Plant-based)
    • Barbecued Bacon Fries with smoked aïoli
    • Sweet Potato Casserole Fries with candied pecans, toasted marshmallow cream, and caramel whisky

Beverages: 

  • Salty Dog Cocktail: Boyd & Blair Vodka with grapefruit juice, ginger, simple syrup, and lime with a salted rim (New)
  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Key Lime Lager (New)

Flavors from Fire (Near Test Track presented by Chevrolet)

Food Items: 

  • Smoked Corned Beef with crispy potatoes, cheese curds, pickled onions, and beer-cheese fondue (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Banh Mi Bao with char-grilled Asian skirt steak, chicken liver aïoli, pickled vegetables, and cilantro (New)
  • Rocky Road Chocolate Cake with marshmallows, spiced almonds, and chocolate ganache (New)

Beverages: 

  • Saugatuck Brewing Company Bonfire Beer
  • Four Virtues Bourbon Barrel Zinfandel
  • Swine Brine featuring Jim Beam Bourbon
  • CORKCICLE Classic Tumbler

Coastal Eats (Near Mission: SPACE; opening Aug. 11)

Food Items: 

  • Baked Scampi Dip with shrimp, scallops, and baguette (New)
  • Oysters Rockefeller (New)

Beverages: 

  • Bell’s Lager of the Lakes Bohemian Pilsner (New)
  • Villa Wolf Sparkling Pinot Noir Rosé
  • Sean Minor Chardonnay
  • Cape Codder: Boyd & Blair Vodka with cranberry, pomegranate, and lime

Mac & Eats (Near Mission: SPACE; opening Aug. 11)

Food Items: 

  • Traditional Macaroni & Cheese with herbed panko (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Cowboy Macaroni & Cheese with smoked pork belly, brisket burnt ends, pickled peppers, onion straws, and barbecue aïoli (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
  • Chili-Cheese Macaroni & Cheese with sour cream and cheddar cheese (New) (Plant-based) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)

Beverages: 

  • 81Bay Brewing Co. Lemon Hazy IPA
  • Catena White Clay Sémillon-Chenin (New) 
  • Evolution by Sokol Blosser Pinot Noir (New)

Mexico

Food Items: 

  • Taco al Pastor: Seared pork belly pastor on a corn tortilla with chipotle black beans, pineapple, pickled onions, and chives (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Tostada de Barbacoa: Barbacoa beef on a fried corn tortilla with chipotle black beans, salsa verde, Mexican crema, queso fresco, and chives (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly)
  • Capirotada de Chocolate: Abuelita chocolate bread pudding served with a chocolate crème anglaise

Beverages: 

  • Mexican Craft Beer
  • Blood Orange Charm Margarita: Centinela Blanco Tequila, blood orange aperitif, blackcurrant-infused vodka, and prosecco served on the rocks with pink peppercorns and sweet-dried-chile salt rim (New)
  • It Takes Two to Mango Margarita: Mezcal Ilegal Joven, mango purée, Nixta Corn Liqueur, rum, and ancho chile lime juice served on the rocks with hibiscus-salt rim (New)

France

Food Items: 

  • Beignet aux Trois Fromages: Warm beignet filled with three cheese blend
  • Brioche aux Escargots, Sauce Crème à l’ail et Persil: Escargot brioche with creamy garlic and parsley sauce (New)
  • Parmentier de Boeuf Braisé au Cabernet: Braised short ribs in cabernet with mashed potatoes
  • Crème Brûlée Vanille à la Confiture de Framboises: Vanilla crème brûlée with house-made raspberry jam (New) (Gluten/ Wheat-Friendly)

Beverages: 

  • Strawberry Rose Mimosa: Pol Remy Sparkling Wine, orange juice, and Monin Strawberry Rose Syrup
  • Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon Blend, Bordeaux, Château de Riffaud (New)
  • Chardonnay, Louis de Camponac
  • La Passion Martini Slush: Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, cranberry, and passion fruit juice

Italy

Food Items: 

  • Gnocchi di Patate: Potato dumplings with four-cheese sauce and roasted cremini mushrooms (New)
  • Gnocchi di Patate: Potato dumplings with vodka sauce, Romano cheese, and crispy bacon (New)
  • Panna Cotta: Orange blossom panna cotta with seasonal berries (New)

Beverages: 

  • Prosecco
  • Moscato
  • Italian Sangria
  • Italian Margarita with tequila and limoncello
  • Peroni Pilsner

China

Food Items: 

  • Pan-fried Chicken Dumplings with house-made sweet-and-spicy sauce
  • Mongolian Beef Bao Bun with onion (New)
  • Dandan Noodles: Spicy pork with sichuan sauce, peanut butter, sesame, and green onion (New)

Beverages: 

  • Passion Fruit Bubble Tea (non-alcoholic) (New)
  • Good Fortune Citrus: Triple sec, grapefruit, and white boba
  • ByeJoe Punch: Chinese baijiu spirit, piña colada mix, and lychee
  • Fireworks: Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila, Smirnoff Vodka, orange, and mango
  • Jasmine Draft Beer

Japan

Food Items: 

  • Teriyaki Chicken Bun: Steamed bun filled with chicken, vegetables, and teriyaki sauce
  • Takoyaki: Octopus, green onion, and cabbage bites topped with tonkatsu sauce, bonito flakes, and nori (New)
  • Spicy Salmon Donburi: Spicy salmon with sushi rice, shiso leaf, red tobiko, and rice pearls (New)

Beverages: 

  • Yuzu Lemon Drop: Vodka, yuzu, and lemon
  • Hana Fuji Apple Sake (New)
  • Orange Blossom Brewing Co. Moon Blossom Pilsner (New)
Mini Piña Colada Funnel Cake

Funnel Cake

Food Items: 

  • Mini Piña Colada Funnel Cake with piña colada ice cream, whipped cream, toasted coconut, and maraschino cherry drizzled with coconut-rum sauce (New)

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

The American Adventure – Mocha Madness: A sweet frozen cappuccino blended with chocolate syrup (non-alcoholic) (Spirited version available with Godiva Chocolate Liqueur) (New)

World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – Castaway Cold Brew: A creamy combination of Joffrey’s Shakin’ Jamaican Nitro and sweet cream (non-alcoholic) (Spirited version available with Grey Goose Vodka and Kahlúa Liqueur) (New)

Near Canada – Arctic Sunrise: A cool citrus treat featuring passion fruit over ice and coconut syrup (non-alcoholic) (Spirited version available with Bacardí Tropical Rum) (New)

World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE – Nitro Dreams: A creamy combination of Joffrey’s Shakin’ Jamaican Nitro Cold Brew, Irish cream syrup, and half & half topped with cream (non-alcoholic) (Spirited version available with Angel’s Envy Bourbon) (New) 

Remy Spork

Available at Select Marketplaces

  • Remy Spork

At this point, hunger has likely kicked in, but don’t worry – these treats are just around the corner. Get your appetite ready for July 14, I know I am!

(Note: All offerings are subject to change.)

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Tips That “Take the Cake” for Disney Disability Travelers

General By June 26, 2022 Tags: , , , No Comments

Written by special guest blogger Bethany Hildebrandt

Follow her on Instagram: @Bethany.hildebrandt
Website/blog: bethany-hildebrandt.com

It doesn’t take much research online to find that a huge part of a Disney World trip is food! When you’re traveling with someone with a disability, special-needs, or medical complexities nutrition isn’t always “easy as pie.” Here’s some insight to know for your Disney World dining adventures.

First let me explain the different types of dining locations around Disney:

1. Food Carts

These are sporadic throughout the parks and Disney Springs but not always accurately labeled on a map. No reservations are used and only occasionally will you find seating nearby. Grab and go options allow for long lines to clear out quickly. You’ll find the famous treats at many of these locations.

2. Bakeries & Cafés

These smaller locations are labeled on MDE app but do not have reservations. They will have limited seating, if any. Some locations will offer mobile order.


3. Quick Service (aka Counter Service)

Found easily on MDE app, these dining options do not offer reservations typically. Some offer mobile order and pick up.
This environment is set up for you to order at a window or go through a line for meal choices if not using mobile order. You would then find your own seating. These locations usually have a dining room for seating or outdoor seating
available first come first serve.

4. Table Service

Reservations for these meal options is highly recommended. The experience will take 1 to 2+ hours and feature a server. Some options include entertainment, shows, or character visits. You may choose from different restaurants serving variations of food offerings—buffets, family style meals, prefix menus, or the good old fashion entrée menu. Depending on popularity, you may be able to join a waitlist without a reservation but this is not recommended from
my experience and rarely available.


On The Go Foodie

For areas that do not have designated seating, this can present a problem for wheelchair users who need a flat surface for dining or snacking. There’s a well known joke that the trash cans are just another variation of table at Disney, especially at Epcotduring festivals. While it’s not ideal, we’ve definitely utilized this trend. Otherwise, I would use the My Disney Experience (MDE) app to locate on the map a nearby outdoor dining space.

My favorite quiet area with tables in Magic Kingdom are found behind the gazebo to the left of Cinderella‘s castle or over near Pete’s Silly Sideshow. In Epcot there are tables near the water of World Showcase and at the Connections breezeway in future world. In Hollywood Studios you can find prevalent seating on Hollywood Boulevard and at Animal Kingdom we prefer tables tucked away in the Harambe Market.

Best Kept Secret

I’ve found the lines at Quick Service locations are no fun at all so I highly recommend using Mobile Order on your MDE app as often as available. There’s nothing better than skipping the line which also makes it easier for people utilizing a wheelchair or ECV. No need to navigate the narrow lines when you can pick up your order right at the counter. You pay directly on your phone by charging to your account or using a saved payment method. Mobile Order is not available at all snack or quick service locations so be sure to check the app and then look for the specific pick up area for each location.

Reservation Requests

When setting up dining reservations for table service restaurants there’s a special circumstances selection that will alert the staff of allergies, dietary restrictions, and accessibility needs. When making your reservation on the MDE app, follow these steps—once you’ve chosen your restaurant, time, and number of guests there’s an optional icon for accommodations. Click “Add a food allergy request” Here you can notate any dietary restrictions and if you need wheelchair accessibility. If you missed this when making your reservation, you can go back and add it in.

Dietary Concerns

Whether you notated an allergy on the reservation when it was booked or not, you can ask to speak with the chef at a table service restaurant. You wouldn’t believe how detailed and service oriented Disney is when it comes to dietary restrictions. You may even get a visit to your table from the chef himself or herself. The goal is to offer a suitable option for every guest with exceptional care to eliminate any cross contamination of ingredients. **Insider tip: One of the most accommodating chefs in all of Disney is Chef TJ who wows guests at Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort! For allergy concerns at a quick service location you can request specific menu options or find those selections on the app while using mobile order. While at a Quick Service restaurant, look for a greeter at the entrance who will direct you to the register to speak with a chef. They will complete a form with your allergy needs and together you’ll create a meal based on the menu. Pay at the register where a cast member will give you a pager. The chef will deliver your meal when it’s complete and review the ingredients. With both service types, you can review menus online prior to arrival where most
locations offer an allergy friendly menu.

Checking In – Table Service Seating

Having the accessibility alert on your reservation prior to arrival is great but I have found you often have to remind them when you check in for your meal again. Don’t be afraid to request a specific area or type of table when being seated. The arrangement of some tables are less suited for wheelchairs, for example, or perhaps you like to be in a well lit area or near a restroom— cast members are eager to assist your needs. All table service restaurants are wheelchair accessible and fairly easy to navigate even with large crowds. Strollers are not allowed in most table service restaurants; however if your stroller is used as a medical necessity, be sure to have it tagged at guest relations “stroller as wheelchair” so it can not only be taken through attraction cues but also into all restaurants. You can find Guest Relations labeled on the map of the MDE app.

Alternative Nutrition

Currently the only negative thing I can say about dining at Disney World falls among the character meals with regards to guests who are unable to eat by mouth yet still are required to pay the full price for entry. Even if someone in your party won’t be eating or is exclusively tube fed for nutrition, they will still be charged the same price as a guest who enjoys unlimited dishes because all guests are able to participate in the character interactions. I truly wish Disney would reevaluate this policy but it’s definitely something to be aware of as it stands now. Speaking of enteral feedings, if you prefer to provide nutrition by tube in a quiet or separate location within the parks, baby care centers or first aid stations are the perfect retreat. These are easily located on the map of your My Disney Experience app or on the park maps found at the entrance. You’ll find a cool, serene environment to complete a feed and a cast member that can help if needed. If you use water to flush or hydrate by tube and don’t want to rack up a huge bill of water bottles—ask for free cups of water at quick service locations while roaming the parks. It’s definitely faster than filling up at the water fountain.

I hope you find these tips and suggestions helpful when it comes to planning your dining at Disney World. The Mickey bars and churros are just the beginning of the incredible offerings you don’t want to miss. When it comes to those table service restaurants and the highly demanded reservation spots, MouseDining is a necessity. You don’t have to be a special needs family to know that meal times are an important part of vacationing so don’t settle! Line up the meals you are eager to try! Over nearly 10 years of consistent Disney trips with my family, I continue to use MouseDining for snagging those difficult reservations every single time.

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Review: Crab Cake Sliders Steakhouse 71

Restaurant Reviews By June 24, 2022 No Comments

Magic Kingdom offers so many wonderful experiences for guests. You can find attractions for all ages. You can find shows and character interactions to make everyone smile. The parades, cavalcades, and fireworks create a magical day. Still, a day at Magic Kingdom presents the difficulty of survival. When I say survival, I mean making it through the day without your feet giving out. This potential negative grows if staying off-site. Your day begins at the Transportation and Ticket Center. You then must navigate your way across the lagoon to the Magic Kingdom entrance. Since you wanted to arrive early, your day will be long to make it to fireworks that night.

As a theme park food blogger, my concern for people in this situation revolves around settling for overpriced below average quality counter service food inside Magic Kingdom. Sure, you could settle for a below average burger at Cosmic Ray’s. Yes, the basic hot dogs at Casey’s Corner will suffice. Yet, what do you do if you want a a good meal? You could make a reservation for a table service dining option within Magic Kingdom. This choice brings air conditioning, a beverage, and an actual place to sit.

If you decide to take a break from the business of Magic Kingdom with table-service dining, your choices are mostly average (The Plaza, for example) and/or expensive (Be Our Guest, for example). However, I would suggest an alternative. Have you considered taking an early afternoon break to go dine at one of the monorail resort hotels? Since you are already at Magic Kingdom, the monorail trip will be short. Also, you get to see a deluxe level resort hotel at Walt Disney World. To recharge yourself for the rest of the day and night, this excursion outside Magic Kingdom might be perfect.

As you might deduce, I suggest making a reservation at Steakhouse 71 located within the Contemporary Resort. When checking reservations 55-60 days in advance, lunch spots were open but very few.

As you may know, this restaurant used to be called The Wave. After some redesigning of the space and the menu, Steakhouse 71 became a highly desired reservation. Steakhouse 71 serves three different menus with a breakfast one, a lunch one, and a dinner menu. The lunch and dinner menus share some similar menu items but not many.

Crab Cake Sliders with petite wedge salad

In the first few weeks of Steakhouse 71 opened in October 2021, I visited here for lunch in a large group. My primary purpose that day involves testing out the burger here. Having been back a few more times, I can attest this place offers excellent lunch options. The “Crab Cake Sliders” here provide a great example. Even crab cake snobs find these crab cakes high quality. Now, this is Walt Disney World so you should expect high quality at their deluxe resorts. These sliders cost $19. The menu description sounds wonderful. It reads lump crab cakes, old bay remoulade, tomato, pickled slaw on a brioche bun. These sliders come with a choice of sides (petite wedge salad, parmesan fries, or pasta salad).

Before I describe the sliders, a few words should be said about the sides. Though improvement has happened, the sides pull the lunch down. In fact, with an incredible onion ring appetizer, these sides pale in comparison. For this entrée, I would get fries. If you decide to get the other two, beg for less dressing and/or oil. Both tend to get soggy. The flavors work but texture suffers.

Regarding the crab cake sliders, these sliders taste exceptional. The crab cake offers way better flavor than the previous version with The Wave. My main negative revolves around the sliders being a bit small. Still, you get two of them. Also, the piece of crab cake looks tall. I advise gently pushing the top piece of bread down on the crab cake before taking a bite.

Far away, the star of these sliders is the crab cake itself. The crunchy outer portion looks and tastes exactly as it should. The crab cake interior presents a soft texture. The sweetness of the crab meat balances well with the spice of the Old Bay Remoulade. Yet, Jeremy Stein, of Main Street Magic Podcast, would suggest the crab cake slider could use a little more “Old Bay” seasoning. Jeremy meets my crab cake snob definition. He knows good crab cake and approves of these.

Photo courtesy of Main Street Magic Podcast

The flavor and consistency of the brioche bun adds to the enjoyment of these sliders. This lunch menu item provides value, quality, and an overall light lunch. This lunch should charge you back up for rest of your day at Magic Kingdom.

Since Steakhouse 71 has been open less than a year, reservations are coveted here. MouseDining offers subscription plans to help you get this reservation as well as many others. If you want to enjoy excellent dining options like this for your Walt Disney World vacation, consider signing up for a subscription to get alerts when hard to find reservations become available. I respect that planning a table service reservation can feel like it takes away some of the magic. Still, eating nothing but counter service chicken tenders and below average burgers will not help the magic either. As always, eat like you mean it!

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Is This the Best Burger on Walt Disney World Property?

Restaurant Reviews By June 22, 2022 No Comments

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa reigns as one of the most prestigious resort hotels at Walt Disney World. The location, quality service, and deluxe level amenities attract guests to this hotel. Some of the best table service dining on Walt Disney World property resides at Grand Floridian Resort. Narcoossee’s and Citricos (and of course Victoria and Albert’s) headline the table service dining here. The more casual table service dining option here is the Grand Floridian Café.

Grand Floridian Café serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Normal operating hours are:

Breakfast – 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM

Lunch – 11:05 AM to 2:00 PM

Dinner – 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM

 

If you are unfamiliar with the Grand Floridian Café, Walt Disney World, on their website, calls this place a hidden gem. That wording always confuses me since how can you declare your own restaurant a hidden gem at your signature deluxe resort hotel? Despite that, reservations are recommended here. On the day of writing this article, around 7:00am Florida time, only two time slots were open for breakfast 60 days in advance. Yet, most lunch and dinner spots were still available. However, 30 days in advance, limited spots were available for breakfast and dinner. Based on that, it sounds like many people know about this place. Of course, Walt Disney World also says on their website that advance reservations are highly recommended.

So, what makes this place a “hidden gem” and a place where reservations are recommended? One reason relates to the fact that Disney calls a large portion of menu “Blunch.” I confess my lack of knowledge of that term until starting to write this article. Still, if you want a brunch menu with way more lunch style items on it, Grand Floridian Café provides that. Grand Floridian Café offers a wide variety of breakfast and lunch items.

 

However, they offer the Lobster ‘Thermidor Burger all day. If you want to have a high-quality table service burger for breakfast, then you can. You are on vacation, right? If the concept of lobster on a burger intrigues you, this one should be on your list.

Grand Floridian Café Lobster ‘Thermidor’ Burger costs more than your average table service burger at $25. Yet, as I compile an updated list of the best burgers at Walt Disney World, this one deserves to be named. This artisanal burger patty comes with a lobster-parmesan thermidor sauce. Yes, that type sauce at this “hidden gem” comes with a burger. If that is not enough, guests get a seared brioche bun and actual quality lobster inside it. This burger does come with signature seasoned French fries. However, you did not order this table service burger for the fries.

So how is this burger? First, the overall flavor of the burger patty wins high adoration. This artisanal blend, as Disney calls it, proves that Disney can do better than below average quick service burgers. Yes, this burger patty is covered with scrumptious toppings. Disney likes to use the trick of covering below average burger patties with a bunch of toppings hoping you do not notice. The artisanal meat blend used in this burger could be better and perhaps have more seasoning. Still, the burger could shine by itself if needed without the toppings. Based on my sources, this burger also gets help with incredible preparation. For example, if you ask for a medium-rare burger, that is what you get.

A unique touch of a parmesan cracker resides on top of this burger also. That aspect does not appear in the menu description. The cracker provides a solid contrast in terms of texture. The parmesan flavoring could have been more for me. Yet, this burger comes with plenty of flavor already.

Now, how do I describe the sauce and the lobster? I cannot tell which of those offers the most satisfying taste. As you might expect, this flavor of lobster and sauce presents a rich decadent shock to your taste buds. The combination of the unique blend burger patty, the cream sauce, some actual lobster, and the salty parmesan wafer delivers near perfection within the brioche bun.

The negatives of this menu item, in my opinion, are three-fold. First, the fries sometimes taste inconsistent in quality. Second, the price point might alarm the person in charge of your budget. Third, the sauce often leads to probable mess factor. If you tend to leave restaurants wearing some of your meal, get your napkins ready.

Photo courtesy of mainstmagic.com

The final question revolves around the issue of the worth of this burger (and fries) at $25? As theme park fans, we find ourselves asking this question so often these days in terms of a Walt Disney World vacation. If you want a high-quality table service level burger, then this should be near the top of your list (if not the top!). Some Walt Disney World restaurants offer burgers with better overall value. Still, very few burgers anywhere provide better taste than this one.

Obviously, if you dislike parmesan and/or lobster, skip this one. However, if you want a larger burger with great flavor, this one should be tested. You might find larger burgers off-property, but this is large enough to share if you are willing to do that. Once again, this burger resides on the menu for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. In theory, you can eat this exclusively while at Walt Disney World. If you choose to accept that contest, you might need to get a few reservations. I understand that MouseDining can assist with that. As always, eat like you mean it!

 

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Fourth of July Foodie Guide: Patriotic Pleasures at Disney Parks

Foodie Guide By June 21, 2022 No Comments

Independence Day is almost here and to celebrate this patriotic extravaganza, the Disney chefs and mixologists have put their all into making some memorable items for the Fourth of July. At both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort, there will be red, white, and beautiful treats all around that are bursting with flavors you’ll love.

There are plenty of treats to indulge in and exciting entertainment to enjoy, including special fireworks that light up the sky for our nation’s birthday. No matter which location you’re at, there’s something for everyone.

And once you see all of the flavorful items, you’ll want to grab your most festive gear and your appetite to taste them for yourself. Try the delicious Fourth of July Fruit Tart at the Contempo Café or indulge in a twist on a dish from a tale as old as time with the Star-Spangled Stuff at Red Rose Taverne – your taste buds will thank you.

We’re proud to present to you the Fourth of July Foodie Guide filled with all the items that will spark your appetite!

Berry Shortcake from Columbia Harbour House and a Red Velvet Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich from Plaza Ice Cream Parlor

Walt Disney World Resort

Magic Kingdom Park

Columbia Harbour House (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Berry Shortcake: Shortcake topped with berries and whipped cream (New)

Casey’s Corner (Available July 1 through August 11; Mobile Order available)

  • Chicago-style All Beef Hot Dog: All beef hot dog, traditional “Chicago green” relish, pickles, and marinated diced tomatoes served on a potato bread bun (New)

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Red Velvet Cookie Ice Cream Sandwich: Red velvet cookies, vanilla ice cream, and sprinkles (New)
Collage of Fourth of July treats from Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Backlot Express and Rosie’s All-American Café (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Apple Pie Cupcake: Yellow cupcake filled with an apple pie filling, topped with salted caramel buttercream and cinnamon streusel, and garnished with rainbow silver sparkle, red, white, and blue Mickey ears

ABC Commissary and The Trolley Car Café (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Red, White, and Blue Raspberry Frangipane Bar: Frangipane layered with raspberry jam (New)

Woody’s Lunch Box (Mobile Order available)

  • Fourth of July Lunch Box Tart: Cherry pie filling, vanilla fondant, and star sprinkles (New) (Available July 1 through 4)
  • Lunch Box Parfait: Blue raspberry gelatin, whipped cream, strawberry gelatin, fresh strawberries, and blueberries (New) (Available July 4)
Fourth of July Liege Waffle and Red, White, & Blue Cake Pops from EPCOT

EPCOT

Connections Café (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Fourth of July Liege Waffle: Brioche dough with pearl sugar (New)

Fife & Drum (Currently available)

  • The American Dream: Frozen Fanta Wild Cherry, vanilla ice cream, and Frozen Fanta Blue Raspberry slushy

Sunshine Seasons (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Red, White, & Blue Cake Pops: Red velvet cake pops (New)
Apple Pie Éclair from Amorette’s Patisserie

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available June 30 through July 4)

  • Apple Pie Éclair filled with a white chocolate cinnamon apple mousse garnished with whipped caramel white ganache, cinnamon apples, and crispy pearls (New)

The Daily Poutine (Available June 29 through July 31)

  • Cheeseburger Poutine: French fries, ground beef, cheese sauce, bacon, lettuce, tomato, pickles, ketchup, and mustard
Sparkling Strawberry drink and Stars and Stripes drink from Walt Disney World Resorts

Resorts

Available at Various Pool Bars and Lounges across the Resorts (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Sparkling Strawberry: Prosecco and strawberry puree garnished with a strawberry (New)
  • Stars and Stripes: Bacardi Raspberry Rum blended with flavors of coconut, pineapple, and raspberry puree topped with a float of blue curaçao (New)

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Firecracker Push Up Pop: Layers of strawberry cake and lemon buttercream with sprinkles (New)
Star-Spangled Cupcake from Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Star-Spangled Cupcake: Yellow cupcake filled with watermelon basil curd with lemon buttercream and white chocolate stars (New)

Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Beach Club Market and Market at Ale & Compass (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Berry Blast Trifle: Layers of strawberry mousse, blueberry compote, vanilla cake crumbles, and whipped cream (New)
Freedom Cheesecake and Independence Day Cupcake from BoardWalk Bakery

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

BoardWalk Bakery (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Freedom Cheesecake: Red velvet brownie base, vanilla cheesecake, sweet cream, crisp pearls, and white chocolate garnish (New)
  • Independence Day Cupcake: Cinnamon cupcake, apple pie filling, and vanilla mascarpone cream (New)

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Centertown Market (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Caribbean Sticky Ribs: Orange-chili sticky spareribs with crispy tostones and a side of creamy mango slaw (New)
  • Firecracker Brownie: Graham cracker crust and chocolate chip fudgy brownie topped with a brown butter caramel mousse, popping candy, and chocolate décor (New)

Spyglass Grill (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Firecracker Brownie: Graham cracker crust and chocolate chip fudgy brownie topped with a brown butter caramel mousse, popping candy, and chocolate décor (New)
Fourth of July Fruit Tart from Contempo Café

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Contempo Café (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Fourth of July Fruit Tart: Blackberry custard topped with fresh berries and a vanilla panna cotta popsicle (New)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Gasparilla Island Grill (Mobile Order available)

  • Red, White, and Blue Cookie Sandwich: Vanilla-scented buttercream sandwiched between two gluten-free chocolate chip cookies (New) (Available July 1 through 4)
  • S’mores Marshmallow Pop: Marshmallow pop enrobed in dark chocolate with graham crumble (New) (Available July 1 through August 29)
Sweet & Spicy Ribs from Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Riverside

Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Sweet & Spicy Ribs: Tender pork ribs with sweet & spicy BBQ sauce, cowboy beans, corn on the cob, and coleslaw
  • Firecracker Brownie: Graham cracker crust and chocolate chip fudgy brownie topped with a brown butter caramel mousse, popping candy, and chocolate décor (New)
Fourth of July Layer Cake from Good’s Food to Go and The Artist Palette

Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Good’s Food to Go and The Artist Palette (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Fourth of July Layer Cake: Layers of red velvet cake with white and blue buttercream filled with a patriotic sprinkle surprise (New)
Fourth of July Firecracker dessert and Patriotic Wave drink from Bar Riva

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Le Petit Café (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Fourth of July Firecracker: Milk chocolate mousse with morello cherries

Bar Riva (Available July 1 through 5 and July 14 through 17)  

  • Patriotic Wave: The Mediterranean Wave with the addition of blue curaçao and hibiscus
Lemon Mousse Cake from Roaring Fork

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Roaring Fork (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Lemon Mousse Cake: Lemon cake and white chocolate lemon mousse with a blueberry compote center and chocolate star décor (New)
Fourth of July Cupcake from Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Fourth of July Cupcake: Spiced cake with apple filling and red, white, and blue buttercream
Star-Spangled Stuff from Red Rose Taverne

Red Rose Taverne (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Star-Spangled Stuff: Blue shortbread cookie, red velvet cake, raspberry, and star sprinkles
Red, White, and Blue Cocktail from Hollywood Lounge

Disney California Adventure Park

Hollywood Lounge (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Red, White, and Blue Cocktail: Blend of Spiced & Silver Rum, tequila, blue curaҫao, tropical fruit juices, and Italian bitters
Test 0615: Fowl Play and Experiment 0341: Red, White and Blue Slush from Pym Test Kitchen

Pym Test Kitchen (Available July 1 through 4; Mobile Order available)

  • Test 0615: Fowl Play: BBQ turkey leg and red particle sides (marble potato salad and pickled vegetables) (New)
  • Experiment 0341: Red, White and Blue Slush: Lemon-lime and blue raspberry slush topped with grenadine and cherry flavor-filled boba (New)
Collage of Fourth of July Treats from Downtown Disney District

Downtown Disney District

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Red, White and Blue Shake: Vanilla rim with red, white, and blue sprinkles topped with a Fourth of July cupcake, firecracker popsicle, whipped cream, red, white, and blue sprinkles, and a cherry

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs (Available July 4 through 10)

  • Firecracker Hot Link: A hot link dipped in batter, rolled in Panko crumbs, and drizzled with a spicy sriracha mayo and hot cheese puff dust (New)

California Churro (Available July 4 through 10)

  • Firecracker Churro rolled in strawberry sugar, drizzled with marshmallow fluff, and sprinkled with red and blue candy pieces (New)

Sprinkles (Available July 1 through 4)

  • Stars and Sprinkles Red Velvet: Southern-style light chocolate cake topped with cream cheese frosting and celebratory red, white, and blue sprinkles
  • Fourth of July Decorate At-Home Kit
  • Fourth of July Bake-At-Home Kit

Wetzel’s Pretzels (Available through July 10)

  • Frozen Striped Lemonade: This drink celebrates Independence Day with a mixture of fresh lemonade, blue raspberry, and kiwi strawberry (New)
Mickey Fourth of July Cookie and Fourth of July Cookie Shot with Alcohol from Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Holiday Cart (Available June 30 through July 4)

  • Layered Cake Pop: Vanilla sponge cake with vanilla buttercream and red, white, and blue sprinkles (New)
  • Mickey Fourth of July Cookie: Vanilla sugar cookie dipped in white chocolate topped with fondant stars (New)
  • Fourth of July Cookie Shot with Milk: Choice of milk, low-fat milk, strawberry, or chocolate milk (New)
  • Fourth of July Cookie Shot with Alcohol: Choice of Bailey’s Irish Cream, Grand Marnier, Captain Morgan Rum, Jameson Irish Whisky, or Rumchata (New)

Happy Fourth of July! May your celebrations be festive and your taste buds be satisfied.

(Note: All offerings are subject to change.)

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Tasty Halfway to the Holidays Delights at Disney Parks

Foodie Guide By June 20, 2022 No Comments

If you love the holidays and can’t wait for the winter months to come, don’t worry, because it’s time for Halfway to the Holidays! Whatever way you celebrate with loved ones, you can get in the spirit early with festive happenings going on at Disney Parks and across our social channels. Be sure to keep your eyes peeled starting June 23 to make sure you don’t miss a second of the fun festivities coming up this week.

One of the best ways to celebrate is the tasty way, and we’ve got a few eats, sips, and novelties for you to get your fix until the winter comes around. From the Peppermint Churro at California Churro over at Downtown Disney District to the Very Merry Minnie Mouse Cupcake at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, both coasts are serving up the dishes to get you feeling in the spirit to celebrate!

Let’s see all the exciting treats making their way to Disney Parks in honor of Halfway to the Holidays.

Christmas Dinner Corn Dog from Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs

For a limited time at Downtown Disney District, you’ll find two delicious eats to enjoy for this exciting occasion. First up, we have the Christmas Dinner Corn Dog from Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs. Beginning June 23 through 30, this twist on a classic features a corn dog made with a turkey hot dog, hand-dipped in batter, rolled in panko crumbs, and served with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping. It’s like a holiday feast on the go!

Peppermint Churro from California Churro

For those with more of a sweet tooth, from June 23 through 30, California Churro has the Peppermint Churro, a churro rolled in crushed peppermint and drizzled with a mint frosting topped with peppermint candy pieces. Few things give you the feeling of the season more than peppermint, and this churro sure does the trick.

Very Merry Minnie Mouse Cupcake from Gasparilla’s Island Grill

At Walt Disney World Resort, you’ll also find some delightful options to choose from. At Gasparilla’s Island Grill, found at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, the pastry team has brought back one of their sweet treats. From June 23 through 26, you can get a festive favorite, the Very Merry Minnie Mouse Cupcake. It’s a chocolate cupcake filled with cookies and cream mousse and topped with ganache-dipped buttercream, cookie ears, and a chocolate holiday bow. That sure does sound delicious!

Peppermint Bark Cheesecake from The Mara

If peppermint is one of your favorite flavors, then you need to take a trip over to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge where The Mara is also joining in on the fun. This team has whipped up the brand-new Peppermint Bark Cheesecake, a peppermint cheesecake with a chocolate cookie and peppermint crust and whipped vanilla panna cotta. This delicious treat is also available June 23 through 26.

Gold Christmas Tree Popcorn Bucket from Disney Springs

Are you wanting to bring the holidays home with you? If so, there’s a novelty that’s coming to Disney Springs! The Gold Christmas Tree Popcorn Buckets are back for the festivities. If you weren’t able to get your hands on them during the holidays previously, no need to fret because all across Disney Springs at outdoor vending carts, you’ll be able to find these buckets. Not to mention, popcorn is included with the purchase – what a treat! But don’t wait too long because these are only available while supplies last.

Also at Disney Springs, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company will be serving up not one, but two special items. From June 23 through 26, you can get the Peppermint Mocha with dark chocolate sauce, peppermint syrup, and whipped cream or the White Chocolate Gingerbread Latte, a delicious combination of white chocolate sauce and gingerbread syrup topped with whipped cream. What could be better than a little touch of the season in your coffee? These delights are also available hot or iced and can have some spirits added for those over 21.

There you have it, all the tasty happenings going on at Disney to celebrate. Starting on Thursday, stay up-to-date on our social channels for special announcements and more fun you can join in on. Happy Halfway to the Holidays!

(Note: All offerings are subject to change.)

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Review: “Tastes like Chicken” Because it is! at Skipper Canteen Magic Kingdom

Restaurant Reviews By June 18, 2022 No Comments

Before the addition of several high-quality counter service places in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, many used to say how horrible getting hungry would be there. In my opinion, the worst Orlando area theme park to solve hunger within would be Magic Kingdom. Many would suggest when at Magic Kingdom to take a monorail trip to one of the excellent dining options along the monorail. I support that choice. However, in my time writing theme park food reviews, I find most people refuse to leave the park for a break even for lunch. Even over at Universal Orlando where multiple high-quality full-service dining options reside within easy walking distance in CityWalk, people select to dine inside the park.

If you feel this way while at Magic Kingdom, your dining options present a challenge. You might select below average burgers or pizza at a counter service place. Of course, you might try average counter service Mexican-like food. Now, you could decide to enjoy a Prix Fixe meal at one of the signature dining options at Magic Kingdom. However, those meals may come with some characters, but your wallet will be damaged even beyond normal Disney level.

If it were me, I would go dine at Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen. In fact, I plan to dine here in August before Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party. Of course, most people call this place Skipper Canteen for short. In some of Walt Disney World’s marketing of this table service option, they describe it having three rooms. Skipper Canteen has three quirky dining areas: the crew’s colonial-era Mess Hall; the Jungle Room, former parlor of Dr. Albert Falls himself; and the S.E.A. Room – a once-secret meeting place for the Society of Explorers and Adventures.

The restaurant comes complete with unique décor fitting of a place that Jungle Cruise workers would eat within. The menu comes with jokes so bad that a Jungle Cruise skipper would elect not to say them. However, your server here may choose to tell those jokes so be prepared.

One of the most popular items here displays this corny joke style. The “Tastes Like Chicken” Because it is! shows off Jungle Cruise level humor. Based on many reviews and guest reports about this one menu item I have read and/or edited, this chicken dish continues to be very popular here.

The “Tastes like Chicken” Because it is! currently costs $26. For table service dining within Magic Kingdom that price point comes in about average. The menu description tells us to expect crispy-fried chicken with a sweet chili glaze, stir-fried vegetables, and seasoned rice. If that sounds like a theme park version of sweet and sour chicken, you would be correct. Though the entrée works better with the glaze/sauce topped on the chicken in standard preparation. Guests may select to have sauce/glaze on the side.

So how does this chicken taste? In the typical bad Jungle Cruise joke pattern, it tastes like chicken! In fairness, the chicken tastes well above average. The decent portion size offers diners hope in a good meal. Guessing, I would estimate the chicken size to be about a ¼ of a chicken. The batter lightly covers the chicken. The flavor of the batter adds to the experience nicely. The chicken tends to avoid dryness issues. I resist saying not dry at all since chicken often gets a bit dry. However, I suspect if you order this, that will not be a concern. However, you should expect potential of some bones with your chicken. If you desire table service chicken tenders, then this entrée is not for you.

Many guests find the chili glaze the most enjoyable part of the entrée. I feel the glaze in combination with the chicken works very well creating an excellent flavor.  The seasoned rice in combination with the vegetables creates some balance also.

Though Skipper Canteen offers some unique flavors with their other entrées, this high quality sweet and sour style chicken fails to overwhelm people with any real spicy kick. Some guests read chili sauce expecting spicier flavor. The sauce flavor provides a touch of sweetness, as opposed to spicy kick, with this dish.

Photo Courtesy of Main Street Magic Podcast

If this sounds intriguing to you, you may need a reservation for this restaurant. I have been looking at reservations of this place as my 60-day window approaches. Depending on the time of year you visit, this could be a challenge. If you struggle with getting a reservation for the time you want, you may want to consult a reservation finder service. As you might suspect, I recommend MouseDining for ease of use. Whatever you need, enjoy your time at Walt Disney World. Thanks for reading this blog. We will endeavor to continue to write reviews so you can make wise dining choices. As always, eat like you mean it!

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