Wendy | the disney food blog

Review: Iced Coffee Float at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

It’s a hot afternoon in the Magic Kingdom. Ice cream is calling your name, but you’re also in need of a little caffeine jolt. Well, I’ve got just the treat for you… today we’re checking out the Iced Coffee Float at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies!

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

Not familiar with Auntie? It’s OK — lots of people just walk right by on their way from Fantasyland to Tomorrowland.

You can find this spot in Tomorrowland across from the Tomorrowland Speedway. The menu features – as the outdoor sign indicates – smoothies and ice cream. You can read our review of both a smoothie AND an ice cream sundae here!

Ice Cream and Smoothies sign

It’s also an easy place to grab a piece fruit or a muffin before your race to Space Mountain in the morning.

The Iced Coffee Float has been on my “To Try” list for a while, but I must confess to rarely stopping at Auntie’s, typically in favor of visiting Sonny Eclipse at Cosmic Rays’s or grabbing a Gourmet Cake Cup at Cheshire Café. But one day I was particularly in need of a caffeine boost, so I strolled in to Galactic Goodies to place my order.

Outside Auntie Gravity’s

You’ve got two choices to make upon ordering your Iced Coffee Float. First, the Iced Coffee: French Vanilla, Mocha, or Latte (the Latte, while still being “lightly sweetened,” is the least sweet of the bunch). Second, the ice cream: Vanilla, Chocolate, or Twist soft serve.

I walked out to the casual seating area…

Outdoor Seating

Cool Umbrella

…with my Chocolate and Vanilla Twist Mocha Ice Cream Float!

Iced Coffee Float

This treat is just a [Read more…]

Review: White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Gourmet Cake Cups at Cheshire Cafe!

By Wendy 19 Comments

Editor’s Note: The Cheshire Cake Cups have been discontinued as of late Summer 2015. We’ll update you if/when they’ll return (because there will be shouts of rejoicing.)

Last fall, the Cheshire Café surprised us all with the debut of AJ’s favorite new treat in all the land — Gourmet Cake Cups.

Cheshire Cake Cup at Cheshire Cafe

This small snack stop next to the Mad Tea Party (the teacups ride!) is adorably themed with whimsical swirls of color, but previously it was known primarily as a spot to grab a piece of fruit for breakfast, or a cold soda or Raspberry Lemonade Slush on a hot afternoon.

Cheshire Cafe Sign

Not so, anymore! The Cheshire Café has become a must-stop for many ever since Gourmet Cake Cups hit the scene. In fact, there have been days when these eye-catching goodies have sold out entirely.

Cheshire Cafe

And that’s bound to happen a bit more often… especially now that Cheshire Café has introduced TWO MORE CAKE CUPS to the line up! Say hello to the White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Strawberry Shortcake Cake Cups!

White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Strawberry Shortcake Cake Cups

For those unfamiliar with these gems, a Gourmet Cake Cup is like a cupcake in its ingredients (cake and frosting), but presented parfait-style. In addition to the frosting on top, there are multiple layers of frosting between the layers of cake, all served in a cup. And yes, they are very, VERY sweet.

Gourmet Cake Cups are known and loved for two things: absolutely terrific – and even artistic – presentation… and oodles upon oodles of frosting! Let’s take a closer look at the new arrivals…

First – as with the previous Cake Cups, the Mad Hatter Mocha and Cheshire Cupcake Cake Cup – the appearance in real life trumps that on the sign. Here is the “new” sign (a small note on that later):

Cake Cups Sign

And here is another view of the duo!

White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Strawberry Shortcake Cake Cups

The White Chocolate Rabbit Cake Cup (inspired, obviously by the always-late White Rabbit in “Alice in Wonderland”) is a yellow cake base that is [Read more…]

Review: Splitsville Luxury Lanes at Disney World’s Downtown Disney

By Wendy 13 Comments

Ready to get yer game on? We’re heading back to Splitsville Luxury Lanes in search of good eats and good times!

Learn About:Splitsville Luxury Lanes

Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

Splitsville Orlando just celebrated its first birthday this past December, so we were excited to experience it again now that it’s really settled in to Downtown Disney’s West Side.

Splitsville definitely changed the West Side landscape immediately upon its arrival, because this place is HUGE. Two floors with outdoor and indoor seating, five bars, a billiards area… oh, and the small matter of thirty bowling lanes!

Atmosphere

You can tell you’re in a festive place even before setting foot inside Splitsville’s doors. Music is always playing in the outdoor seating area, and it’s often provided by live musicians.

Splitsville outdoors

The other hint as to what’s going on here is the colorful display of bowling balls.

Splitsville Bowling Balls

Do I bowl? Not really. Do I totally want one of these? You bet!

Mickey and Minnie Bowling Balls

Upon entering the building, you immediately hear music and the sound of pins being downed by bowling balls. Because there is a LOT to take in right away, these signs directing you where to go for dining and/or bowling are especially helpful.

Splitsville entrance

We headed left to the Dining Check-in and mentioned our Advanced Dining Reservation. Yes, Splitsville does take ADRs, and it’s nice to have one on a weekend, especially. But — thanks to the enormous size — it can be a great place to try to score a walk-in! We were seated right away (even though we arrived about 15 minutes in advance of our ADR), but we couldn’t resist taking a look around.

Colorful lockers and rows of bowling shoes remind you that this isn’t only a restaurant, my friends. It’s the highest end bowling alley dive you’ve ever been to.

Lockers at Splitsville

Rows and Rows of Bowling Shoes are encountered when you walk into Splitsville

As your eyes take in all there is to see – including the enormous escalator joining the first and second floors, the entire vibe is almost over stimulating. The fun and casual attitude of the staff, however, helps you to relax right away and feel at home.

Bowling Lanes at Splitsville

There are nods all over the place to the [Read more…]

What’s New Around Disney World and Disneyland for March 8, 2014!

By Wendy 6 Comments

There’s lots new to see all over the World and the Land! So settle in, friends, and read on!

Hollywood Studios

We’re starting this round at Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant!

“…It came from the snack bar”

The House-made Sci-Fi Candy Bar has hit the dessert menu: a white and dark chocolate mousse layered between sponge cake and dipped in chocolate ganache.

Sci Fi Dessert Menu

There have been a couple of additions to 50’s Prime Time Café as well.

50s Prime Time Sign

Another vegetarian entrée has been added to the menu: Sissy’s Vegetarian Favorite Multigrain Spaghetti! “Vegetable Protein and Mushrooms tossed in Marinara Sauce, just like Spaghetti and Meatballs.”

And don’t forget dessert! All your favorites remain, but Old-fashioned Handmade Milk Shakes are listed, featuring the famous “Peanut Butter & Jelly” and the limited time “Red Velvet Cupcake.”

Magic Kingdom

Okay, this next update isn’t about food… it’s just next to food 😉 . But I couldn’t resist [Read more…]

News! and Review: Las Ventanas Makes its Debut at Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort

By Wendy 15 Comments

UPDATE: Please note that as of February 2015, Las Ventanas also serves dinner. Advanced Dining Reservations are also accepted.

Guess what! Disney World opened a new restaurant, and we’ve got all the details for you! 🙂

Nope; you won’t find it at the parks. You won’t even find it at Downtown Disney! Nope — it’s at Coronado Springs, a Mexican-themed moderate resort!

Coronado Springs has a few aces up its sleeve when it comes to dining. The Pepper Market has a great reputation for lots of delicious choices in its unique station-style food court, and no one can argue with the margarita flight available at Rix Lounge and Maya Grill. Today, we’re excited to present the Resort’s brand new restaurant: Las Ventanas!

Las Ventanas entry

Well…it’s not exactly new. Las Ventanas has always been the private dining room for Rix Lounge. I guess they just realized they needed more table service offerings for conventioneers!

Las Ventanas is open for breakfast and lunch. It’s tucked in a hallway next to Rix Lounge. Since it’s closer to the Convention Center, if you are staying at Coronado as a non-Convention guest, it could be easy to miss. Thankfully, there is a sign in front of the Pepper Market leading the way.

Pepper Market

Las Ventanas sign with operating hours

Atmosphere

Two things struck me upon entering Las Ventanas. First, the size. It’s small and intimate, due to previously being a private dining room. You’ll nearly be able to see the entire restaurant within these pictures.

Las Ventanas seating

Las Ventanas

There were only 14 or 15 tables in the whole place and, even though the room is small, they were very well-spaced with plenty of room in between each.

Las Ventanas Table

Second, it’s beautiful. Decor is minimalistic. Rather than being filled to the brim with details, things are kept rather simple. This serves to enhance the atmosphere, as you can truly take in the touches that catch your eye.

Las Ventanas Hanging Lamps

Fresh flowers on the table

Wall decoration

One thing I can’t share with you in pictures [Read more…]

Review: Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites

By Wendy 32 Comments

Editor’s Note: the Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich has been replaced by a Buffalo Chicken Waffle Slider. More details on the new offering here.

You know we lurve our waffles here on DFB, and today we’ve got ANOTHER awesome new waffle item to share with you!

Now, Waffle Sandwiches aren’t new to Disney World. At Magic Kingdom’s Sleepy Hollow Refreshments, the featured waffle sandwiches are the Sweet and Spicy Chicken, the Ham, Prosciutto, and Swiss Cheese, and Nutella and Fresh Fruit. Even Epcot got in the game for a while over the holidays with a Sweet Potato Casserole Waffle and a Savory Seasonal Waffle (think Thanksgiving in a waffle!).

But today? Today we’ve got an extra EXTRA special waffle sammy. We’re heading to Trilo-Bites today for a sometimes-it’s-there-sometimes-it’s-not Waffle Sandwich!

Trilo-Bites

Trilo-Bites in Dinoland previously held the distinction of being THE spot to pick up a Turkey Leg in Animal Kingdom. The menu has shifted, however, to offer sweeter fare: a Warm Waffle with Fresh Strawberries and Cream and a Baked Apple Blossom with Ice Cream (or without) are the menu highlights.

Waffle with Strawberries and Baked Apple Blossom

You can also find Milk Shakes, Floats, and a Waffle Bowl Sundae here, too.

(By the way, for those of you wondering, “Well, where do I get my Turkey Leg in Animal Kingdom now?”, you can head over to Flame Tree Barbeque. You’ll see the Turkey Leg listed under the entrees with a side of slaw, but it can also be purchased by itself for $9.79.)

Anyway, on a recent visit to Animal Kingdom, I noticed something special was briefly back on the menu. It’s a little hard to catch since it’s only offered on “peak crowd level” days, so it was great to spot it: the Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich! Seriously? You ask? YES! I reply!

Trilo-Bites Menu with Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich

See, that’s the bonus to visiting the Parks when they’re crowded: MORE FOOD! Shazam!

There was no picture on the menu, so I was happily surprised when I was presented with this (Ooooooh! Aaaaaah!):

Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich

The pulled buffalo chicken tops the waffle, of course, but it also [Read more…]

News! Redesigned Refillable Mugs at Disney World Resorts!

By Wendy 31 Comments

RFID is here to stay! Your favorite refillable mugs in Disney World have gotten a brand new design!

The new mug!

OK — here’s a little background. Many of you know that Disney has a refillable mug system at it’s resort hotels: buy a mug for a certain price, refill it as many times as you want while you’re staying at the hotel.

A lot of news last August revolved around the arrival of the new Rapid Fill refillable mugs across Disney World Resorts. When they hit the shelves, the mugs had the same design as the previous non-RFID version of the mugs, with only some variation in the colors of the lids and handles.

So we’re especially excited to show you the newly redesigned mugs that have started to pop up at Disney World Resorts! The Fab Five are all there… plus Clarabelle! ;-D

Pluto joins in the fun

They’re really fun — the gang is checking into a Disney hotel! And, of course, Donald is experiencing a few “hang-ups.” ;-D

Goofy and Donald on the opposite side

There are four colors available to choose from (as opposed to three in the previous line): [Read more…]

Super Snack VALUE: Naan Bread with Dipping Sauces at Art of Animation Resort

By Wendy 12 Comments

Welp, we’ve got another great Disney snack for you guys to add to your ever-growing must-eat lists in Disney World!

Learn About:Landscape of Flavors

Disney World Restaurants

Remember last year when we were all “you HAVE to try the cheesy bread at Art of Animation“?

Well the Resort’s food court, Landscape of Flavors, is back with another perfect-for-your-budget-and-your-Dining-Plan treat.

After all, this place has a strong reputation for serving options outside your typical Resort Food Court fare. Most visitors would argue that it has raised the bar for Quick Service options, particularly at the Value Resorts.When All Star Sports End Zone reopened this past December, it was easy to spy some of the areas where it took its cue from some of what’s made Landscape of Flavors such a success.

Landscape of Flavors

The Tandoori/Mongolian station, however, remains unique to the Landscape.

And there is something special tucked on the side of the menu that can be hard to spot among the listing of entrees such as Tandoori Shell-on Shrimp, Tandoori Boneless Chicken Thigh, and Mongolian Grill Beef Stir-fry or Grill Fish.

Tandoori Menu — slightly cropped (this is what happens when you’re short)

If you look just to right of the menu, you’ll see it: Naan Bread with Dipping Sauce. It’s listed as a $4.99 snack dish, and is also good for a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Naan with Dipping Sauce

Much as we want to dive in, let’s start with some logistics. The Dipping Sauces available during my visit were Coriander Sauce, Tandoori Sauce, and Mango Chutney. And here’s the best part: you don’t have to limit yourself to just one. If you’d like to try all three, you can go right ahead!

BUT — here’s a little confusing twist that I have to tell you about. The friendly Cast Member assisting me asked if I wanted the “side of Naan.” I didn’t realize, in that moment, that a “side of Naan” is different from the “snack-serving” of Naan. The side, as it turns out, includes one piece of Naan. The snack portion has TWO.

SIDE of Naan

You know how I learned this? When I brought my dish up to the cash register, [Read more…]

New!: Italian Spiced (and more!) Roasted Corn at Liberty Square Market

By Wendy 7 Comments

It’s funny: Liberty Square Market is smack dab in the middle of Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. And yet, somehow it remains something of a hidden gem. I’m referring to the structure itself, and also its food offerings. You never know what you might find at Liberty Square Market.

Liberty Square Market

Well, that’s not entirely true. You do always know you’ll find lots of grab-n-go options, like bagged chips and whole fruit. And you’ll find them in a pretty cool setting! But there are always a few surprises here, too! Let’s check out a few of the details.

Atmosphere

There is a lot of charm packed in this not-so-huge space. And all of it perfectly complements its Liberty Square surroundings, from the open-air building…

View of Liberty Square Market

…to the font used on the menu.

Liberty Square Market Menu

I like the barrels of Mead, Ale, Grog, and potatoes! (Please note: Liberty Square Market sells neither mead, nor ale, nor grog ;D) . It does, however, sell potatoes! More on that in a few…)

Barrels o’ Mead and Grog!

My very favorite is the cart full of chips. I like to think this was how the Founding Fathers picked up their Doritos and Cheetos after a long morning of drafting Constitutions and what-not. You know.

Cart full of chips

You can take your goods to this seating area behind the Market. Tables are often [Read more…]

What’s New Around Walt Disney World: February 8, 2014!

By Wendy 11 Comments

Our latest update is (almost) all about sweet treats that have found their way into the World! Read on to find out what new goodies we’ve spied recently…

New Ice Cream Flavor in Morocco

Recently we featured the Chef-Created Ice Cream found at the Juice Bar connected to Spice Road Table in Epcot’s gorgeous Morocco Pavilion.

Juice Bar Menu at Spice Road Table

The chefs are already at it again, introducing another new flavor: Orange Honey Walnut has hit the scene.

Morocco Juice Bar Chef Created ice Cream Epcot

Chef-Created Ice Cream in Morocco Juice Bar

New Cupcake at BoardWalk Bakery at BoardWalk Inn

A great new seasonal cupcake appeared at BoardWalk Bakery: Dulce de Leche! This one differs from the Dulce de Leche cupcake that was featured in years past at Contempo Café: BoardWalk Bakery’s version features a whipped cream topping sprinkled with crushed pralines (though it’s similar in that there is caramel inside).

Dulce de Leche Cupcake

New Cupcake at Roaring Fork in Wilderness Lodge

And take a look at this bright red beauty over at Roaring Fork in Wilderness Lodge: the Strawberry Lemonade cupcake (priced at $4.19, and good for a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan). Perfect for February and all things Valentine!

Strawberry Lemonade Cupcake

Valentine’s Day Cupcakes at Disney Parks Bakeries and Candy Shops

Speaking of Valentine’s cupcakes, a few have [Read more…]

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Review: Iced Coffee Float at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies

Review: White Chocolate Rabbit and Queen of Hearts Gourmet Cake Cups at Cheshire Cafe!

Review: Splitsville Luxury Lanes at Disney World’s Downtown Disney

Atmosphere

What’s New Around Disney World and Disneyland for March 8, 2014!

Hollywood Studios

Magic Kingdom

News! and Review: Las Ventanas Makes its Debut at Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort

Atmosphere

Review: Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites

News! Redesigned Refillable Mugs at Disney World Resorts!

Super Snack VALUE: Naan Bread with Dipping Sauces at Art of Animation Resort

New!: Italian Spiced (and more!) Roasted Corn at Liberty Square Market

Atmosphere

What’s New Around Walt Disney World: February 8, 2014!

New Ice Cream Flavor in Morocco

New Cupcake at BoardWalk Bakery at BoardWalk Inn

New Cupcake at Roaring Fork in Wilderness Lodge

Valentine’s Day Cupcakes at Disney Parks Bakeries and Candy Shops

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POLICIES & CREDITS

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Author: Wendy

Atmosphere

Hollywood Studios

Magic Kingdom

Atmosphere

Atmosphere

New Ice Cream Flavor in Morocco

New Cupcake at BoardWalk Bakery at BoardWalk Inn

New Cupcake at Roaring Fork in Wilderness Lodge

Valentine’s Day Cupcakes at Disney Parks Bakeries and Candy Shops

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER EBOOKS

POLICIES & CREDITS