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.)

Share:

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.

Share:

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!

Share:

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!

 

Share:

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.)

Share:

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.)

Share:

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!

Share:

Best Bites: Latest Foodie Treats to Try at Disney Parks

Foodie Guide By June 17, 2022 No Comments

Foodie news is coming your way because we’ve got the latest and greatest going on at both Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort. Some of these are sweet, some are savory, but there’s one thing for certain about them all – they’re delicious.

From the new BBQ classics coming to Paradise Garden Grill to some adorable, sweet treats making their way to multiple resorts at Walt Disney World, this summer there are tons of spots just waiting for you and your tastebuds to explore. If you’re ready, let’s give your stomach something to look forward to, shall we?

Collage of dishes and sips at Paradise Garden Grill

At Disneyland Resort, you’ll find some mouthwatering dishes and sips over at Paradise Garden Grill nestled within Disney California Adventure park. Here, you can now enjoy some BBQ delights added to the menu. The Kansas City-style BBQ Ribs has pork ribs with house-made BBQ sauce, pickles, and onions and the North Carolina-style BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich has creamy coleslaw, crispy jalapeños, pickles, and onions. The St. Louis-style BBQ-Rubbed Chicken is a beer-brined, roasted half chicken with pickles, and onions. All of these options come with your choice of side – the Poblano Mac & CheeseChuck Wagon BeansPotato Salad with BaconCreamy ColeslawAndouille Sausage, or the Jalapeño-cheddar Cornbread.

For beverages try the Peach Cobbler Cocktail with moonshine, peach schnapps, and peach-cinnamon purée or the Pabst Blue Ribbon Beer.

Family Picnic Platter at Paradise Garden Grill

If you want a little of everything, then the Family Picnic Platter is for you. This has a BBQ half chicken, pulled pork, ribs, andouille sausage, poblano mac & cheese, chuck wagon beans, potato salad with bacon, creamy coleslaw, jalapeño-cheddar cornbread, pickles, and onions. To top it off, it is also served with cherry cheesecake. Now that’s a meal!

Poutine collage at Red Rose Taverne

Red Rose Taverne at Disneyland park will be featuring a new Late Night Menu with some tasty eats to enjoy. The plant-based Bonsoir Chili Cheese Poutine includes a hearty plant-based chili, shredded “cheese,” and seasoned waffle fries while Our Classic Poutine dish has slow-cooked beef, gravy, cheese curds, and spiced, pickled red onions on waffle fries – yum! Lastly, the Firelight Fries features tangy spiced chicken and pepperoncini ranch sauce on ranch-seasoned waffle fries. This yummy Late Night Menu is currently available from 8:30 p.m. until 11:30 p.m. daily. You can pick up all of these through Mobile Ordering on the Disneyland app, too!

Also at Disneyland park, Harbour Galley has some treats for you. You can treat yourself to Soup in a Sourdough Bread Bowl with your choice of clam chowder, steak gumbo, or the plant-based vegetable gumbo. If soup isn’t your thing, there’s also the new Harbour Muffuletta Salad with cured meats and cheese on mixed lettuce with olive tapenade, giardiniera, pepperoncini, and Italian dressing with sliced sourdough. Now that’s a tasty salad. For those looking for a satisfying sip, the Pelican Punch is a chilled tropical blend of pineapple, coconut, and lime.

Royal Street Veranda wrap and salad collage

These aren’t the only updates to New Orleans Square because Royal Street Veranda also has some new dishes recently added to the menu. For those looking for a plant-based option, the Hoppin’ John IMPOSSIBLE Royal Wrap has seasoned plant-based meat with rice, black-eyed peas, “cheddar,” lettuce, and Cajun dressing in a spinach tortilla. The Street Steak Salad is made up of chilled steak on mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, blue cheese, candied pecans, and fried onions with a horseradish dressing. For a delightful finish or a little pick-me-up for those with a sweet tooth, the Blueberry Fritters with blue sugar and lemon curd dipping sauce is for you!

Salt & Straw Picnic Series collage

Do you love ice cream? If so, Salt & Straw at both Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort have some truly unique flavors for the month of June inspired by summer – the Picnic Series. This menu is embracing the season and highlighting picnic-themed flavors inspired by popular summertime eats such as watermelon, fried chicken, and cherry pie. Be sure to stop in throughout the month at both locations to try out this special menu.

Swirls on the Water Buzz Lightyear Star Commander Cone and DOLE Whip Float featuring Rosa Regale Sparkling Red Wine, DOLE Whip strawberry, and a fresh strawberry slice

At Disney Springs, there’s another frozen treat to enjoy, and this one is themed for none other than Buzz Lightyear himself. At Swirls on the Water is the Buzz Lightyear Star Commander Cone, a purple cheesecake soft-serve adorned with chocolate wings and space sprinkles. This special intergalactic treat is available through the end of the month. Also, at this location this month is the DOLE Whip Float featuring Rosa Regale Sparkling Red Wine, DOLE Whip strawberry, and a fresh strawberry slice. That’s one refreshing treat!

Zurg Freeze found at Auntie Gravity's Galactic Goodies

Disney Springs isn’t the only place with some space sweets on the menu. At Magic Kingdom Park, join in on galactic celebrations for everyone’s favorite space ranger with this special treat inspired by his new film “Lightyear.” The new Zurg Freeze can be found at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies starting tomorrow and is available through the end of June. It’s the perfect treat to reward yourself for a successful mission on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin!

EPCOT also has some exciting delights to indulge in. Over at The Land, two locations are getting a few new dishes – Garden Grill and Sunshine Seasons. A tasty Barbecued-roasted Chicken with Sweet and Tangy Barbecue Sauce as well as a Southern-style Spoon Bread is now available at Garden Grill. At Sunshine Seasons starting today, you can enjoy a Roast Beef Sandwich with chilled roast beef, chimichurri aïoli, cheddar, arugula, and red onion on a flour-topped kaiser roll served with potato chips. For a plant-based option, try the Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwich featuring roasted red pepper, red onion, tomato, arugula, hummus, and balsamic vinaigrette on herbed focaccia. And rounding up the new additions to this tasty spot is the Spicy Fish Taco. This dish has a fire-roasted corn salsa, creamy jalapeño Piri Piri sauce, and radish served with plantain chips – yummy!

Coral Reef Restaurant has also seen some enhanced items recently. Start off your meal with new appetizers like the Trio of Seasonal Dips with fresh vegetable crudité and crisps or the New England Clam Chowder. As you enjoy the incredible, underwater views, feast upon entrée additions like the Orange-glazed Sustainable Salmon served with vegetable stir-fry and shiitake sticky rice. If this doesn’t quite float your boat, consider the Cajun Chicken Pasta filled with pulled Cajun-spiced chicken, parmesan cream sauce, roasted mushrooms, peas, peppers, and onions. I don’t know about you, but these all sound quite tasty to me.

Collage of Hollywood & Vine featuring Disney Junior pals and meal spread

I hope your appetite is ready because Hollywood & Vine at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will be welcoming back their buffet on August 28. As you get to meet some of your favorite Disney Junior pals for breakfast and Minnie and her friends for lunch and dinner, you’ll be able to feast upon all-you-care-to-enjoy delights. For breakfast, this spot will be serving up options like Brioche French Toast with Banana Foster SauceSalmon and Bagel Casserole, and Plant-based Frittata with tomato jam. As the day goes on and Minnie and the gang come out to play, the buffet will switch over to tons of yummy plates, including the Plant-based Roasted Mushroom Farro RisottoSlow-roasted Crispy Pork Belly with Guava glaze, and Shrimp and Bacon Mac & Cheese. And to perfectly finish off your meal, there are plenty of desserts to choose from, such as the Mississippi Mud Pie or the PB&J Tarts. You’ll want to have it all!

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano collage of new menu items

Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano is debuting new menu items inspired by classic Italian cuisine in late June. For starters, the Fried Fresh Mozzarella is a must-try with marinara sauce, ricotta salata, and lemon oil, while the Grilled Bone-in Pork Chop entrée can’t be missed. This dish is accompanied by creamy polenta, roasted tomatoes, mustard vincotto, and charred broccolini. You can also indulge in enhanced versions of Mama’s Italian Pasta and the Sustainable Fish dish. For a grand finale, there are several new eats to choose from – the Mini Cannoli TrioColors of Italy Cheesecake, Mama’s Cookies To Go, and Blueberry Frangipane Tart. Now that’s a well-rounded dessert menu.

Olivia’s brunch service options in a collage

Calling all brunch lovers! I’ve got some exciting news coming to you from Disney’s Old Key West Resort. Olivia’s brunch service will be available every day of the week starting on September 1, with reservations opening soon. Yes, you heard that right – every single day. This expanded offering will still feature your favorite classic brunch items, like the Southernmost Buttermilk Fried Chicken and the Papa’s Hash. And what proper brunch is complete without a good ole Loaded Key West Bloody Mary? But don’t worry, there will also be a new offering added to the menu – Banana Bread Pudding. This tasty treat features Bahamian banana-rum syrup and coconut whipped cream with your choice of bacon, sausage, or ham, and is sure to give you those sought-after island vibes.

Collage of cupcakes from resorts across Walt Disney World

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, you’re in luck because there are several resorts across Walt Disney World that have some new treats for you. At the World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, you’ll find the Box Office Cupcake, a yellow cupcake filled with caramel and topped with marshmallow buttercream and a peanut-pretzel-popcorn brittle – it’s all your movie theater favorites rolled into one! Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort has the Rock and Roll Cupcake, another yellow cupcake but this one is filled with peanut butter buttercream and topped with banana panna cotta and candied bacon. Yes, yes, and yes! The End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports is serving up the MVP Cupcake. This yellow cupcake is stuffed with apple pie filling and topped with a buttercream baseball and caramel popcorn-peanut crunch. Now that’s a homerun cupcake!

Disney’s Pop Century Resort also has a couple of new sweets for you. At Everything POP Shopping & Dining, the pastry chefs have whipped up the Flashback Crème Pie, an oatmeal-raisin cookie sandwich filled with marshmallow crème topped with dark chocolate and cinnamon glaze, as well as the Pop Goes the Bananas Cupcake, a yellow cupcake filled with caramelized banana in a pastry crème topped with caramel-latte buttercream. These two are not to be missed.

Lighting McQueen Gravel Road Sundae

Take a trip into the animated world of some of your favorite Disney stories at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, where they’ve got some delights for you too. At Landscape of Flavors, try the Lighting McQueen Gravel Road Sundae featuring vanilla soft-serve ice cream with chocolate cookie crumbs, chocolate sauce, and a Lightning McQueen chocolate coin. This one will leave you saying “ka-chow!”

The Drop Off pool bar collage of two drinks

At The Drop Off pool bar, enjoy the sunshine and a cocktail with two of their delicious concoctions. The Big Blue Ocean is made up of Svedka Vodka, Bacardi Superior Rum, Bols Blue Curaçao, and Minute Maid Premium Lemonade served with a souvenir glow cube. The Seafoam Refresher has Malibu Coconut Rum, Bols Blue Curaçao, and pineapple juice, garnished with pineapple. Talk about refreshing!

There you have it – all the latest foodie news happening on both coasts. Which are you most excited to try?

(Note: All offerings are subject to change.) 

Share:

Foodie Guide to Father’s Day Treats at Walt Disney World

Foodie Guide By June 14, 2022 No Comments

June 19 is Father’s Day this year and no matter how you plan to celebrate, there are plenty of delicious goodies all across the Walt Disney World Resort for you and your loved ones to enjoy. The chefs and pastry extraordinaries here at Walt Disney World have brought their creativity by whipping up some savory and sweet delights to enjoy together with whoever you celebrate for – your dad, uncle, grandfather, caregiver, father figure, or another special person who impacts your life!

Some of the best ways to share love with those who mean a lot to you is through the stomach, and what better place to get those tasty treats than Walt Disney World? From the All-American Dad Platter at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue to the Dad’s Favorite Snacks Tart at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, there’s something for everyone to indulge in on this special day.

Get ready to grab your people, and your appetite, because here is the Foodie Guide to Father’s Day filled with all the yummy eats and treats you can feast upon. Bon appétit!

All-American Dad Platter from Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue

EPCOT

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue (Available June 19, Mobile Order available)

  • All-American Dad Platter: Memphis dry-rub ribs, sliced Texas beef brisket, North Carolina chopped smoked pork butt, garlic toast, and choice of side (New)

Le Cellier Steakhouse (Available June 17 through 20)

  • Slow-roasted Beef Prime Rib with au jus, creamy horseradish, and truffled fingerling potatoes
Apple-Peanut Butter Tart

Sunshine Seasons (Available June 19)

  • Apple-Peanut Butter Tart with cinnamon crumble and chocolate mustache (New)
  • Toasted Coconut Cake with mango chutney filling and buttercream grass (New)
“I Am Your Father” Petit Cake from Amorette’s Patisserie and Bacon of Doom from Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available June 17 through 20)

  • “I Am Your Father” Petit Cake: Red velvet cake, cream cheese filling, dark chocolate mousse, and white and dark crisp pearls

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (Available through June 30)

  • Bacon of Doom: Chocolate-covered bacon paired with The Colonel, Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, or White Crème de Cacao
Fatherly Moments from Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resorts

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, End Zone Food Court

  • Roasted Prime Rib: Oven-roasted prime rib, mashed potato, roasted asparagus, baby carrot, and red wine demi sauce served with Caesar salad (New) (Available June 17 through 19)
  • Fatherly Moments: Fudge brownie and caramel with a pretzel and buttercream “frame” surrounding iconic fatherly moments from “The Incredibles” and “The Princess and the Frog” (New) (Available through June 19)

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Landscape of Flavors  

  • Braised Short Ribs: Braised short ribs with a spiced rum mushroom demi, charred baby carrots, asparagus, and potato pavé (New) (Available June 17 through 19)
  • S’mores Gourmet Stuffed Cookie: Chocolate chunk cookie loaded with toasted marshmallow crème topped with a crunchy cinnamon graham streusel and drizzled with dark and white chocolate (Available through June 19)

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Cape May Café (Available June 19 for breakfast only)

  • Dad’s Beachside Bloody Mary: Loaded Bloody Mary with Absolut Peppar topped with shrimp, candied bacon, celery, green olives, and a lime wedge rimmed with Cajun seasoning
Ropa Vieja with Maduros and Cuban Style Rice from Centertown Market

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Centertown Market (Mobile Order Available)

  • Ropa Vieja with Maduros and Cuban Style Rice: Cuban-style beef stew and rice with plantains (New) (Available June 17 through 19)
  • Father’s Day S’mores: Graham cracker cake topped with a milk chocolate mousse infused with bacon, chocolate mirror glaze, and toasted meringue garnished with candied bacon (New) (Available through June 19)

Spyglass Grill (Available through June 19; Mobile Order Available)

  • Father’s Day S’mores: Graham cracker cake topped with a milk chocolate mousse infused with bacon, chocolate mirror glaze, and toasted meringue garnished with candied bacon (New)
Father's Day Bacon Brownie from Contempo Café

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Contempo Café (Available June 17 through 19; Mobile Order available)

  • Father’s Day Bacon Brownie: Fudge brownie, chocolate ganache, caramel, bacon, and chocolate crisp pearls (New)

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

Toledo (Available June 19)

  • Father’s Day Brûlée: Bourbon ganache, vanilla crème brûlée, fresh berries, and chocolate mustache (New)
Hole in One brownie

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

Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette (Available through June 19)

  • Hole in One: Fudgy brownie filled with caramel and pecans, topped with cheesecake glazed in a white chocolate glaçage with white chocolate golf garnish (New)
Dad’s Favorite Snacks Tart from Kona Island and Capt. Cook’s

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (Available June 17 through 19)

Kona Island and Capt. Cook’s (Mobile Order available at Capt. Cook’s only)

  • Dad’s Favorite Snacks Tart: Chocolate tart, coconut macadamia topping, dad’s favorite snacks (potato chips, snickers, popcorn, and M&M’S), rum chocolate caramel sauce, and chocolate-dipped bacon piece on top (Gluten/Wheat Friendly) (New)
S'mores Gourmet Stuffed Cookie from Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Everything POP Shopping & Dining

  • Roasted Prime Rib: Oven-roasted prime rib, mashed potato, roasted asparagus, baby carrot, and red wine demi sauce served with Caesar salad (New) (Available June 17 through 19)
  • S’mores Gourmet Stuffed Cookie: Chocolate chunk cookie loaded with toasted marshmallow crème topped with a crunchy cinnamon graham streusel and drizzled with dark and white chocolate (Available through June 19)
Sweet & Spicy BBQ Ribs and Father’s Day Cheesecake Brownie from Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Riverside Mill Food Court

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Riverside

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Riverside Mill Food Court (Mobile Order available)

  • Sweet & Spicy BBQ Ribs: Pork ribs with sweet & spicy BBQ sauce, cowboy beans, corn on the cob, and coleslaw (New) (Available June 19)
  • Father’s Day Cheesecake Brownie: Brownie topped with peanut butter cheesecake garnished with whipped ganache and M&M’S Minis (New) (Available through June 19)
Milk Chocolate Ganache Tart and Bourbon Pairing

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Le Petit Café (Available June 17 through 19)

  • Milk Chocolate Ganache Tart and Bourbon Pairing: Milk chocolate ganache tart paired with the “Father of Bourbon” Elijah Craig Small Batch Kentucky Bourbon on the rocks

I hope you have a very happy Father’s Day with whoever you are celebrating this year!

(Note: All offerings are subject to change.)

Share:

MouseDining Review: Thigh High Chicken Biscuits at Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ Disney Springs

General, Restaurant Reviews By June 12, 2022 No Comments

Art Smith’s Homecomin’ offers a challenge for guests wanting to dine here. Since Homecomin’ resides withing Disney Springs, guests do not need a theme park ticket. The parking garages provide free parking. The location of Homecomin’ can be found easily in the all the hustle and bustle of Disney Springs. They serve lunch from 11am to about 4pm. After those lunch hours, they serve dinner until 10pm. This place also offers a weekend brunch starting at 9:30am. So, what is the challenge?

The challenge, should you choose to accept it, involves getting a table. The seating within this place for table service is lower than you would expect. An outdoor seating area also exists though. In my attempts to test the lovely Walt Disney Dining reservation system for an upcoming surprise trip, Homecomin’ has been one of hardest reservations to get even at 6:00 eastern time sixty days in advance. For over a week, I woke up 5:40am Florida time to see how long reservations last for dinner time. I compared Homecomin’ with Space 220, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and Topolino’s Terrace. According to MouseDining.com data, those places present significant difficulty in getting a reservation. On most days I checked, Homecomin’ reservations lasted about same time as those other places. In that small sample size, reservation acquisition presents problems.

Since Homecomin’ could be difficult to get a table, is it worth part of your Orlando area vacation? I say yes. If you are looking for traditional southern USA comfort food, this place meets that desire. If you want quality table service dining with no entrée over $40, then Homecomin’ deserves a look.

Well, this place offers a menu designed by Chef Art Smith.  Art Smith is known to be at this location often. I proclaim this next assertion about Chef Art Smith with admiration. I desire to show no condemnation. However, Art Smith does not create food for those looking to lose weight. His cuisine style builds on taste not long-term health. If your doctor needs you to lose weight, please do not even walk by this restaurant. My vegan and gluten free dining friends find few options here. Despite that, reservations go quickly. If you simply want a solid table service meal at reasonable “Disney” prices, run to this place. Also, if you believe the myth that vacation calories do not count, plan to enjoy Homecomin’.

As you might expect, chicken perfectly fried stars on this menu. If you want truly wonderful fried chicken, visit this place. A great example of this sits on the appetizer menu here. Guests can order the “Thigh High Chicken Biscuits. This appetizer provides a great introduction to the food at Homecomin’.

These chicken biscuits cost $17. However, this appetizer might be worth that price point. The menu description tells us that three excellent biscuits come filled with Chef Art’s famous fried chicken thigh meat. The biscuits then are drizzled with hot honey.

These USA style biscuits (sorry UK friends for our use of English) are well prepared. Many people rave about the biscuits here. Also, these biscuits present a nice balancing cheddar taste to go with the rest of item. As you can see, the signature bread and butter pickles feature prominently with these biscuits. As Jeremy Stein of Main Street Magic Podcast, friend of MouseDining, would point out, you can get these without pickles. However, if you like bread-and-butter style pickles, you should enjoy these. If you dislike pickles but have someone in your party who likes pickles, get them on the side. They will thank you later.

The well-prepared chicken benefits from the flavorful biscuits and honey mixed with Art Smith’s special hot sauce. The flavor combination earns high praise. If the idea of hot honey alarms you, my experience with hot honey is that it provides flavor. Still, the flavor does not reach an excessive spicy kick to scare your taste buds. The balance of hot sauce and honey fits this appetizer thoroughly.

Though some guests voice concern about the quality of the chicken itself. I feel those complaints function as the exception not the rule. Normally, the chicken thigh meat comes well prepared. Also, it is incredibly tender with good flavor by itself. The most common complaint I hear about this appetizer involves nothing about the taste. Many guests would like to see a larger version of this on the main entree portion of the menu. Some wish for a way to get more biscuits even as an appetizer. Also, three chicken biscuits can be tough to share in a group of four or more.

Sure, some podcasters, already mentioned in this article, will shout to the rooftops that the chicken biscuit sliders at Three Bridges are better. Though those get good reviews, I think most people will prefer the Art Smith version. However, even Jeremy would agree if you got a reservation at Homecomin, then this appetizer is worth your time.

If you need help getting a reservation here or any other Walt Disney World restaurant, MouseDining can help. As always, eat like you mean it!

Share: