Archives for 2014

News! Be Our Guest Restaurant Currently Serving Only FastPass+ Guests, No Walk-Ups

UPDATE: Please note that as of February 25, 2015, FastPass+ is no longer available, as Be Our Guest Restaurant began to accept Advanced Dining Reservations for lunch. For further information, please click here.

This morning, we began hearing rumors of another twist in the having-lunch-at-Be Our Guest Restaurant-Saga.

Learn About:Be Our Guest Restaurant -- Lunch

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

According to our friends at AllEars, Disney is now only permitting guests who have a FastPass+ reservation to dine at Be Our Guest Restaurant during lunch service.

Effectively, this means that, at least for now, you no longer have the option to stand in line and wait for a table during the lunch service at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom’s New Fantasyland.

While this may be welcome news for resort guests, it remains up in the air at press time what impact this will have on day guests, annual passholders, and others who are not staying at a Disney resort or who cannot get a FastPass+.

This is a developing story, so we’ll be sure to keep you informed as details emerge! For now, it looks like you’ll need to take advantage of a Be Our Guest FastPass+ Reservation Invitation, should one come your way.

Be Our Guest FastPass+ Reservation Invitation

It remains to be seen if this is [Read more…]

Review: Caramel Bacon Square and Caramel S’more at Epcot’s Karamell-Küche

By AJ 10 Comments

It’s always a good day when we get to try ANYTHING at Karamell-Küche… and, we’ve got some awesome new-to-us treats for you today!

Learn About:Karamell-Küche

Epcot Restaurants
Disney World Restaurants

I stopped by the Germany Pavilion recently with the sole intention of grabbing a Chewy Caramel Shortbread Bar, but simply had to take a peek first into that bakery case chock full of golden caramel goodness. And…we found new stuffs!!

So, what’s new at the Caramel Kitchen, you ask?

Among the items that have arrived since my most recent visit were Vanilla and Chocolate Cakeballs, Caramel Gingersnaps, Caramel Bacon Squares (what WHAT?), and Caramel S’mores.

Caramel Gingersnap and Caramel S’more in bakery case

Chocolate Cakeball in bakery case

Caramel Bacon Square next to Caramel and Milk Chocolate in bakery case

Umm… did somebody say “BACON”? Clearly, I altered my order right away to grab a Caramel Bacon Square ;). I asked for a Caramel S’more, too, while I was at it!

Caramel S’more and Caramel Bacon Square

Sweet stuff with a touch of good ol’ bacon isn’t a mixture that’s unique to Karamell-Küche. You can find it in things like Everything Pop’s King Cupcake and Peanut Butter, Banana, and Candied Bacon Pie at BoardWalk Bakery.

What’s the Karamell-Küche take on this combo? From the outside, the Caramel Bacon Square looks a lot like the other chocolate-covered caramels in the case, only with [Read more…]

News! “Maelstrom Margarita” at Epcot’s La Cava del Tequila

By AJ 21 Comments

It appears that Norway’s next door neighbor (well, in World Showcase, that is!) is offering a tribute to Maelstrom, which carried riders on a “High Seas Norwegian Adventure” for the last time earlier this week (the attraction was closed to make way for a Frozen-inspired refurb).

The Mexico Pavilion’s La Cava del Tequila is serving Maelstrom Margaritas to honor the beloved attraction.

Maelstrom

The Maelstrom Margarita features “Premium Ambhar Tequila blanco, mango puree, orange liquor, and agave nectar served with blueberries, habanero peppers, basil and Tajin chili powder on the rim.”

©cavadeltequila

The drink debuted on October 6th for La Cava’s “Margarita Monday,” and while we assume this drink will only be available for a very limited time, according to La Cava’s Twitter feed: “Maelstrom Margarita will be available until you stop buying it, so it all depends on you. Made in honor of the ride.”

So, if you find yourself in the Mexico Pavilion today while tasting your way around the World, stop by La Cava to raise a glass… and to remember [Read more…]

Dining in Disneyland: Caramel Apple Funnel Cake and Mango Habanero Lime Iced Tea at Hungry Bear

By Heather 12 Comments

Tucked back in the corner of Critter Country, The Hungry Bear Restaurant is often overlooked. This quiet counter service restaurant is rarely crowded, has plenty of shaded seating with a gorgeous view of the Rivers of America, AND the food here is great too! Another bonus? They’re currently serving up the most delicious item at the Disneyland Resort.

Hungry Bear Order Kiosks

The Caramel Apple Funnel Cake is making its grand debut this year for Halloween Time — and I need it to go away soon because otherwise I will be way too tempted to eat one on each and every visit to Disneyland.

Caramel Apple Funnel Cake from Hungry Bear

Made fresh to order, a Caramel Apple Funnel Cake will set you back [Read more…]

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Pictures and Review: Farm Fresh and Hops & Barley Marketplace Booths

By AJ 5 Comments

The 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival is well underway, and we’re hearing from lots of you that you’re really enjoying this year’s offerings!

Welcome to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival!

Today, we’re taking a closer look at those little outposts of deliciousness, the Marketplace Booths found throughout World Showcase. Up to this point, we’ve focused on international flair, but this time out, let’s visit two uniquely American spots — Farm Fresh and Hops & Barley.

These two spots include some of our most beloved festival offerings this year.

(Get the bacon hash. Get. It.)

The Farm Fresh Marketplace Booth

The Farm Fresh Marketplace Booth is sort of something old and something new at the same time. The marketplace actually debuted as Florida Local in 2012.

Farm Fresh Marketplace Booth

This year, Festival chefs wanted to expand the scope of the food served here. Rather than source ingredients from Florida only, they looked to showcase regional flavors. But the emphasis is still farm-to-market-fresh.

2014 Farm Fresh Marketplace Booth Menu

You get the sense that they’re taking a back-to-basics approach. Dishes are homespun, but are executed with attention to detail and bold flavors.

For example — the Nueske’s® Pepper Bacon Hash. This thing is just off the charts. I seriously ate it in, like, 30 seconds while I stood there like an idiot taking up space. It includes Nueske’s Bacon, plus lots of fresh ingredients like Sweet Corn, Potatoes, and Pickled Jalapeños. But the best part? The Hash is topped with creamy Hollandaise. Shazam.

Nueske’s® Pepper Bacon Hash with Sweet Corn, Potatoes, Hollandaise and Pickled Jalapeño

The Griddled “Yard Bird” is another fun dish. It’s pretty straightforward, actually. Chicken Thighs are seasoned and then [Read more…]

Review: Lunch at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

By AJ 25 Comments

You know I can’t stay away from this place.

Learn About:Beaches and Cream

Disney World Restaurants

It’s been a while since we’ve visited Beaches and Cream “officially” here at the DFB. What I mean is, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is one of the few spots I frequent almost every time I visit Disney World, but its been a while since I shared some of the goodness with you here on the blog.

We’re fixing that today with a little (well, actually a LOT of) lunch at everyone’s favorite soda shop, and checking out some of the options from the updated menu while we’re at it.

Ready to go? Let’s head to the middle of the Yacht and Beach Club resorts, right next to Stormalong Bay, and settle in…

Beaches and Cream at Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Atmosphere

I’m not the only one who loves Beaches and Cream — not by a long shot. Over the years this little spot has become one of the most popular resort restaurants in Disney World… and I do mean “little.” Those arriving for their first visit might be struck by how small it is in comparison with most Disney World restaurants.

And, remember, speaking of small, the restaurant now offers advance dining reservations…which are recommended. While the to-go section is still open, and seats at the counter are easier to come by than tables when you’re a walk-up guest, ADRs are often necessary even during the slow seasons these days.

Beaches and Cream Dining Room

Once inside, you’ll see that the decor is bright and cheerful, with soft pastels making up most of the color scheme, and mirrors to “open up” the space a bit.

Beaches and Cream

Much of the decoration [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: October 5, 2014

By Kim LaPaglia 2 Comments

Frozen Fans — here’s another special event for you!

Frozen Fun!

The Frozen Holiday Premium Package will debut this holiday season at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Plus, click below for all the details on this week’s Disney Food News…

Disney Food News

Disney World debuts a new seasonal experience — Disney’s Hollywood Studios Frozen Holiday Premium Package!
Time for another DFB Podcast! In episode 21, AJ and Brad are discussing their favorite Disney Bars and Lounges!
Check out three new Disney glow cubes just in time for Halloween in Disneyland!
Disney is taking Magical Fairytale Weddings to the next level with Wedding Cake Projection Mapping. Get a first look here!

Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including restaurant closures, Le Cellier will host a New Year’s Eve dinner, Moet and Chandon Wine Dinner Menu at Flying Fish Cafe, and more!

We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go.

DFB Reader Finds

If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday!

DFB Reader Tim tweeted the delicious donuts with chocolate dipping sauce available at Disney’s water parks (Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach). These donuts may be mini but they are HUGE on flavor!

Mini-Donuts with chocolate dipping sauce

Facebook Friend Akemi shared the adorable Lion King waffles served at Boma’s breakfast buffet. A unique Disney waffle for the young and young-at-heart! LOVE!

Lion King Waffles at Boma

What’s your Favorite Find? We can’t wait to see it!

DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book

We’re thrilled to announce that the 2014 DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks e-Book is now available!

And in honor of our grand launch, you can [Read more…]

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic: Highlights

By AJ 5 Comments

More food and bev fun at Walt Disney World! The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns with seminars, tastings, sweets, and beverages for another year.

The Fifth Annual Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic will be held Friday, October 31, and Saturday, November 1, 2014, from 5:30 – 9:00PM at the Swan and Dolphin Resorts in Walt Disney World. The resorts are just a short walk from Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, making this event a convenient add-on to your 2014 Epcot Food and Wine visit.

Let’s take a closer look at all the event has to offer!

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Causeway

Immerse yourself in this culinary festival during an evening stroll of the Crescent Lake Causeway. Food, wine, and beer lovers will find delicious options while listening to live music.

With 17 restaurants and lounges, the Swan and Dolphin resorts have a nationally-recognized culinary team that will be showing off their talents! We’ve attended the event every year since it began, and it’s a delicious way to spend the evening.

The Causeway at the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic

Mulitple food and beverage stations will showcase food and drink from Shula’s Steak House, Il Mulino New York Trattoria, and Todd English’s bluezoo, among other great Swan and Dolphin restaurants.

Sip the night away with all of your favorites. And if you love wine, enjoy selections from around the world! Sommeliers will be on hand to answer all of your questions and help you to discover new favorites.

Enjoying an evening on the Causeway as I sample appetizer portions of dishes from some of my favorite restaurants is always a fun time! The Shula’s tasting station is always a popular one, and this year’s Beef Tenderloin promises to draw a crowd.

Beef Tenderloin, Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Sauce Bordelaise From Shula’s Steakhouse

Thirsty? There’s no shortage of beverage options, which include Wine, Beer, and Sake. Tasting stations will offer sips from all popular U.S. wine regions as well as celebrated wines from around the world.

Chefs and Beverage experts staff every station and are happy to answer all of your questions.

You’ll also have the chance to meet executive chefs from the Swan and Dolphin Culinary Team. And bluezoo’s Celebrity Chef Todd English will once more be on hand to greet guests and chat about the dishes he’s serving!

Seminars

If you’re interested in a more hands-on learning experience, consider booking

[Read more…]

New Frozen Holiday Premium Package at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

By Kim LaPaglia 12 Comments

Just in time for the holidays, Disney World debuts a yet another new seasonal experience — Disney’s Hollywood Studios Frozen Holiday Premium Package!

Elsa and Anna Letting It Go!

For those of you who love desserts, the Osborne lights, Anna and Elsa, and souvenirs, read on…

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Frozen Holiday Premium Package

This brand new VIP package includes reserved viewing in the Premiere Theater for the “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration,” which could come in very handy during those packed holiday days at the parks.

Speaking of crowds, this package provides a reserved location (at the end of Streets of America) for the magical Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights.

Osborne Lights!

You’ll also get to splurge on “free with the price of the ticket” specialty alcoholic drinks, non-alcoholic beverages, and Frozen-themed desserts.

As for souvenirs, you’ll receive a unique [Read more…]

Dining in Disneyland: New Halloween Glow Cubes

By Heather 9 Comments

New for Halloween Time this year, the Disneyland Resort has introduced three new glow cubes for your lighted drinking pleasure.

The specialty cubes are available in the themed lands from which they come. For example, The Poison Apple Glow Cube can only be found at Disneyland Park in Fantasyland — the same area where you’ll find Snow White and the Wicked Witch, who’d like to poison her with one of these little flashing beauties.

Poison Apple Glow Cubes

You can pick up a Poison Apple Glow Cube at Maurice’s Treats or the Small World Lemonade Cart.

Poison Apple Glow Cube at Maurice’s Treats

Over in New Orleans Square, you can find Jack Skellington Glow Cubes brightening up your beverage! A Jack Glow Cube can be purchased from the Mint Julep Bar, Blue Bayou, Cafe Orleans, or the New Orleans Square Lemonade Cart.

Jack Skellington Glow Cubes

Although I haven’t seen them yet, Pumpkin Mickey Glow Cubes are floating around in Disneyland drinks, too! They can be found throughout Disneyland at Carnation Cafe, Big Thunder Ranch, the Small World Lemonade Cart, the Tomorrowland Lemonade Cart, and at the Ship to Shore Food Stand, which is just across from Big Thunder Mountain. I’ll try to get my hands on one soon, so I can share a photo!

UPDATE: I spotted the Mickey Pumpkin Glow Cube for sale at the Small World Lemonade Cart!

Mickey Pumpkin Glow Cube at the Small World Lemonade Cart

In my opinion all drinks taste better with a Glow Cube in them. I’d really love a whole bowl of Poison apples for a Halloween decoration. I guess I’d better get to sippin’!

Are you a sucker for Glow Cubes? Have you seen these specialty Halloween Time additions in the parks yet? Which one is your favorite?

Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here!

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Archives for 2014

News! Be Our Guest Restaurant Currently Serving Only FastPass+ Guests, No Walk-Ups

Review: Caramel Bacon Square and Caramel S’more at Epcot’s Karamell-Küche

News! “Maelstrom Margarita” at Epcot’s La Cava del Tequila

Dining in Disneyland: Caramel Apple Funnel Cake and Mango Habanero Lime Iced Tea at Hungry Bear