If you haven’t previously visited Disney World’s Swan and Dolphin, now is an especially good time to do it!

Why? Because now you can check out Phins, the Dolphin’s brand new lobby bar AND Fuel, the brand new grab-and-go market!

The entire lobby of the Dolphin, in fact, received a terrific refurbishment, and these two new dining additions are part of the sweeping changes. We’re checking out both today, starting at…

Phins

Phins is conveniently located within the lobby of the Dolphin, offerings guests a place to relax immediately upon checking in, if they choose!

Atmosphere

The look of the new Phins is altogether striking, with a custom-made crystal chandelier glistening above the signature fountain.

The atmosphere is sleek and polished, complete with plenty of seating.

Those seating options include stools right at the bar, of course. A few hightop tables are available as well.

And smaller, more intimate tables face the fountain for a really fun change of pace.

It’s a terrific spot to grab a drink and toast the beginning, or end, of a Disney World vacation.

Eats

Unique signature cocktails, craft beers, and globally-inspired appetizers make up the menu at Phins!

Specialty drinks include the 1565 Tiki. And where you’ll find tikis, you’ll typically find RUM! This potent, fruity sip includes St. Augustine Rum, Malibu, orange and pineapple juices, vanilla syrup and grenadine, and a float of Myer’s Dark Rum.

The Classic Whiskey Sour features Tin Cup Whiskey, fresh sour mix, egg white, and orange bitters.

Both drinks were strong, solid offerings, but the Signature Cocktail is really the one to watch for, and consider for your vacation splurge.

Smoke n’ Roses, featuring Four Roses Small Batch Bourbon  — is presented in Phins “Signature Smoke Box.”

Yes, that $19 is a splurge, but the presentation and accompanying fragrance is incredible. Better yet, the drink is wonderfully smooth and that unique smokiness is imparted in the flavor, too.

Draft, Bottled, and Craft Beer offerings include Phins & Feathers, a Pale Ale only available at the Swan and Dolphin and the collaborating brewery, the Brew Hub.

An extensive list of champagnes, wines (including some on tap), tequila, premium rum, scotch, and more are also available.

And on Sundays you can enjoy Sunday Sips from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, with Proud Marys, or “Brunches in a Glass,” inspired by restaurants in the Swan and Dolphin: bluezoo, Il Mulino, Shula’s, and Kimonos.

Appetizers are available starting at 3:00 pm daily. A Bavarian Style Warm Pretzel and “Cib’s” Deviled Eggs are among the starters.

And House Specials include Cajun Boiled Peanuts, Pork Belly Bao, and Lamb Meatballs.

We tried the Spanish-inspired braised Lamb Meatball, accompanied by pork tomato sauce, roasted potatoes, and Manchego cheese.

But the “Best Bite” goes to the flavorful Pork Belly Bao, with its hint of heat coming from the chile and garlic seasoning, and the fantastic texture of the soft, steamed bun.

Phins is open from 12:00 Noon to 2:00 am Mondays through Saturdays, and 10:00 am to 2:00 am on Sundays. And now off to our next stop for a little more…

Fuel

If you’re looking for some fuel while visiting the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, then look no further than… Fuel!

Now, the Dolphin’s brand new grab-and-go location (the proper name in actuality is “fuel,” without a capital F) may not sound as exciting as the stunning new lounge, but some special additions elevate Fuel from your standard grab-and-go location. Of course, you’ll find plenty of expected items like prepared sandwiches and snacks, too, if that’s what you’re craving.

So let’s take a look and see what Fuel has in store!

Atmosphere

Open daily from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm, Fuel presents a wide open space with a perimeter that showcases all the food and beverage that this new market has to offer.

While this streamlined location (in both form and function) is set up for those who are intent on grabbing some quick eats and moving on with their day, there is also simple seating for those who prefer to enjoy their food right away.

Eats

As you take in the surroundings from left to right upon entering, you’ll start with the Specialty Coffee Bar, appropriately named “Octane.”

Coffee, espresso, teas, frappes, and more make up the menu, and below is just a portion.

Roaming the room, you’ll find plenty of treats for any sweet tooth at the Candy Bar.

The refrigerated case offers healthier and heartier salads and sandwiches alongside bottled drinks.

Freshly made sandwiches are available as well.

But we’ve saved the best stop for last… under the heading “Chill Out” is the D.I.Y. Frozen Yogurt stand!

Available yogurt flavors included Vanilla, Chocolate Mint Cookie, Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Strawberry, and New York Cheesecake, and cups are priced at 68 cents per ounce. But those ounces are going to add up fast once you check out all the TOPPINGS!

Not bad for a grab-and-go, huh?

Overall

If you aren’t staying at the Swan and Dolphin, but would still like to experience Phins or Fuel (with Phins, of course, being more worth a designated trip), it’s not too difficult to get there, especially if you have a day planned at Epcot. There is a walker-friendly pathway from the International Gateway between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions. Allow for a 15-20 minute walk, or just take a Friendship boat from the same area.

For guests staying at the Swan and Dolphin, though, Phins and Fuel are some pretty great upgrades! These new spots easily meet several needs for those traveling for business, pleasure, or both! And the fact that the spots are visually appealing and on trend is a terrific bonus. So, if you’re awaiting your reservation for bluezoo or Shula’s, consider grabbing a pre-dinner drink at Phins (and maybe following up with some froyo at Fuel!) to make more of your time at the recently renovated Dolphin Hotel!

What do you think of Phins and Fuel so far? Please let us know with a comment!