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Category: News

Dining in Disneyland Review: The Market House Reopens as Starbucks!

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In “better late than never news” (sorry, I’ve completely lagged on this post), The Market House on Disneyland’s Main Street USA has reopened as Starbucks — and it’s gorgeous!

Market House on Main Street USA

The Market House is the second Starbucks location to open at the Disneyland Resort, following the one inside of Fiddler, Fifer, and Practical Cafe.  A third is currently being built in Downtown Disney.

In my opinion, Disney has done a fantastic job at imagineering the themes of Starbucks to fit right in with the resort.  Overall, the Market House has kept much of its quaint decor, but it’s been updated with a larger queue area and more seating.

Market House Starbucks in Disneyland

When you walk up to the Market House, you will notice that the Starbucks signage is very subtle.  In fact some of the windows don’t even have a Starbucks logo.

Market House Window

The windows that do have Starbucks signage are more vintage looking; not the typical obvious green logo that we are used to seeing on every corner.  The window below is near the main entrance of Market House.

Starbucks Logo on the Window of Market House

There are still two entrances to Market House. Below is the back entrance which is also the main exit.  You can see that the Starbucks themeing here, printed coffee [Read more…]

News and Review! Writer’s Stop Debuts Mickey Macaroons!

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Many guests line up at Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the popular carrot cake cookie!

Learn About:Writer’s Stop
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney World Restaurants

It’s easily one of our favorite places to hang out in the Studios!

But we’ve got something NEW to share from Writer’s Stop today — Mickey Macaroons! More like a macaron than a macaroon (but we’ve had that definition battle before), this is basically a fluffy baked cookie sandwich. 🙂

The best part of this Fall-colored treat? It’s Mickey-shaped!

Mickey Macaroons in bakery case

Macarons have popped up in earnest over at Epcot’s France pavilion (they even have an awesome macaron ice cream sandwich!), but this is one of the first times we’ve seen them in a standard Disney bakery.

You can get your Mickey Macaroon for $2.49 or a Disney Dining Plan snack credit.

A new treat from Writer's Stop!

According to DFB reader and friend Daniel Wanderman, who sent the pics this morning, the macaroon [Read more…]

Photo Tour! Re-Imagined Restaurants and Lounges on the Disney Magic Cruise Ship!

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Remember when we told you that the Disney Magic cruise ship was about to get a full makeover?? Well, today we have an awesome photo tour for you!!

The Re-Imagined Disney Magic

The Disney Magic – The original cruise ship of the Disney Cruise Line – first set sail in 1998. Fifteen years later, she has just launched again after a lengthy stay in dry-dock where she spent her time being “re-imagined.”

Re-imagining is more than simply being refurbished or refreshed. Some spaces around the ship were entirely redesigned while others were enhanced. She sure is a beauty!

Disney Magic

Since the re-imagined areas are primarily public spaces, this, of course, means that some of the dining areas and adult lounges were re-imagined or refreshed as well! Though some spaces, already timeless, remained unchanged or just refreshed.

Let’s have a look inside this amazing vessel and see what’s new!

Carioca’s

The biggest update to the dining scene on the Disney Magic is the addition of Carioca’s.

Carioca's Entrance

What was previously Parrot Cay now pays homage to one of Donald Duck’s [Read more…]

Review: Tropical Pastries at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

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If you’re at Caribbean Beach Resort and are hoping to start your day with a taste of the islands, then you’re in luck.

Learn About:Old Port Royale Food Court
Disney World Restaurants

The last time DFB was here was when AJ reviewed the one-of-a-kind Monkey Cupcake! Today, it’s time to check out another unique set of Island-y goodies!

The Grab and Go area at Caribbean Beach’s Old Port Royale food court is now serving tropical-inspired breakfast pastries! Kudos to the pastry chefs here for coming up with such fun additions to the menu!

Grab and Go Area at Old Port Royale food court

This will be the first area you encounter — to your right — when you walk into the Food Court from the parking lot area. It’s a wide open space that you can’t miss.

This area of the food court features cold sandwiches and snacks for a quick bite any time of day. (And it’s a great place to pick up your midnight snack before heading back to your room after a long day in the parks.)

Stop by the Grab & Go

Refrigerated areas offer some healthier for you snacks, too, like fruit, salads, and pre-made sammies.

Display at Grab & Go

But we were here to check out the unique pastries with tropical flavors!! Here we go!

Eats

As I approached the bakery case, I noticed many favorites that are standard across Disney World Resort food courts (Cheese Danish, Chocolate Croissants, and Cinnamon Rolls, among others).

Bakery Case

Bakery Items

But I was especially impressed to find several tropical treats to choose from. I counted eight in all: the Mango Almond Tartlet, Pineapple Turnover, Pineapple Coconut Muffin, Ginger Mango Muffin, Guava and Cheese Danish or Turnover, Mango Coconut Muffin, and the Banana Turnover. Welcome to the Islands!

Tropical Pastries

I was tempted to grab what would most obviously suit my tastes: the Guava and Cheese Danish. There are few things I love more than a Cream Cheese Danish. Add to that a dollop of Guava puree and… GOOD MORNING!!

Guava and Cheese Danish Display

Guava and Cheese Danish Close Up

Since that one was a no-brainer, I thought it best to try some of the pastries that were unlike things I already know and love. I carried my choices to the outdoor seating area… not a bad place to start the day, huh?

Outdoor seating

First up? I tried… [Read more…]

The “DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2013″ Grand Launch and Discount!

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Tis the season to eat, drink, and go to Walt Disney World! And that means it’s time for the Grand Launch of the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2013 e-Book!

We’ve been busy updating all the latest holiday tips and brand new info you NEED to know before you hit the parks this November, December, and January! With 270 pages of detailed information and multiple bonus extras, it WILL save you time and money during the busiest season in Walt Disney World! And it’s here just in time!

And since we want you to save some cash right NOW, we have a steep discount for DFB readers (as always!). Get the brand new guide today for $3 off the regular purchase price for a limited time! How? Use code JINGLE at the check-out!

The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2013 e-Book Is Here!

The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2013 e-Book

features 270 pages of all the info you need to know before you head to Walt Disney World for the holiday season, including NEW events and holiday happenings, over 250 photos, and an informative FAQ section. It includes:

  • Detailed descriptions and photos of every holiday event and activity happening at the parks and resorts this year — including tips on how to make the best use of your time and money when visiting!
  • A fully comprehensive holiday dining section with listings of holiday snacks, treats, meals, and menu items offered this year — from popcorn kiosks all the way to Signature Restaurants.
  • A clickable 3-Month Schedule of Holiday Events so you can see at-a-glance what looks interesting to you.
  • Comprehensive listings — with color photos! — of Disney Resort holiday decor and gingerbread displays
  • Our recommendations on ways to SAVE while you’re in Disney World this holiday season.
  • A section dedicated to all “New for 2013” events, dining options, and activities, including what’s new at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, The Celebrate the Magic Castle Show, and the Epcot Candlelight Processional.
  • NEW Scavenger Hunts
  • NEW Disney Cruise Line Chapter
  • A Preview of the 2014 Holidays in Disney World
  • And more!

Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Holiday Fun!

You’re probably paying a lot of money for your Disney holiday vacation…and we’re here to make sure you get the biggest bang for your buck! And with the holiday season already here, the time is now!

Booking early for holiday events and dining is critical, and our exclusive [Read more…]

Eight New Churro Flavors in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney!

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There are NEW Churros in town!!!!

Yep — Disneyland’s Downtown Disney has introduced yet another “well, will you LOOK at THAT?!” treat (not unlike my new favorite — the frozen cheesecake on a stick!). (Seriously, Downtown Disney Anaheim, you guys have some snackerific winners on your hands.)

California Churros

The California Churros cart is offering churro fans 8 new flavors!!! Check ’em out: Cinnamon Sugar, Pineapple Whip (??!?!??!??! Is this like a Dole Whip in a Churro??! That’s almost as good as a Cheesy Blaster!), Milk Chocolate, Apple Cinnamon, Strawberry Cream, Salted [Read more…]

Review! New Club Cool Flavors in Epcot!

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Club Cool has debuted several new soda flavors

for guests to sample!

This fun, FREE option in Disney World’s Epcot has always been a dedicated fans’ pit stop in the middle of a hot, exhausting touring day (even though I really do miss the old “walk-through-a-glacier” entryway! That blast of cool air was awesome!).

The main goal of coming here is either to indulge in some of the more palate-friendly Coca-Cola beverages from around the world, or to trick friends and family members into trying one of the more bitter options — Beverly!

Speaking of — fans of Beverly don’t need to worry. The favorite Italian aperitif is still on tap.

But several options have been retired, and the new flavors include beverages from Zimbabwe, Thailand, South Africa, and Peru.

Club Cool Sign

Here’s a peek at the Club Cool choices!

New Flavors at Club Cool

Our friend @MealTrip tried them all, and wasn’t all that impressed. He much preferred the previous watermelon (China) and apple (Mexico) flavors to these.

But he went through and took pics of each new flavor so that you’d be able to see what you’re in for! 🙂 (Note: the see-through cups were used so that you could see the characteristics of each flavor. Club Cool still only offers the small, paper cups for the drinks.)

Fanta (Pineapple): This pineapple version is from Greece and has a sweet flavor with no caffeine. There are more than 90 flavors available in 180 countries. Fanta debuted in Europe in the 1940s and was introduced in the United States in the 1960s.

Pineapple Fanta from Greece

Fanta (Melon Frosty): This flavor of Fanta hails from Thailand and is the number one soda in that country.

Thailand Fanta -- Melon Flavor

VegitaBeta: Launched in Japan in 1992, this is a non-carbonated beverage with the flavors of apricot and passion fruit. This is also rich in beta carotene, which gives the beverage a bright orange hue.

Non-Carbonated VegitaBeta from Japan

Bibo: A fruit flavored, [Read more…]

Photo Tour and Review: NEW Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge in Disney World!

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Um…this is why I LOVE writing this blog. It’s completely a group effort!

Learn About:Hollywood Brown Derby
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney World Restaurants

Yesterday, DFB readers Jacquie Symonds and Alan Cohen sent over some AWESOME pics of the brand NEW (i.e. JUST opened yesterday and they were the second people to eat there!!!!) Hollywood Brown Derby Patio Lounge!

We reported on this fun-ness on Tuesday, and we’re so excited to share an inside look with you today! Huge thanks to Jacquie and Alan!

Atmosphere

The Patio Lounge is on the Brown Derby’s never-usually-used patio (natch) out in front of the restaurant. There’s an entrance next to Starring Rolls Cafe!

Ribbon Cutting!!

Guests will be seated both indoors and outdoors, so it’s still a good option even in the rainy or cold weather. Outdoor seats are under umbrellas and feature iron furniture with padded backrests.

A bar stands ready nearby to crank out all of those specialty drinks!

Patio seating at Brown Derby Lounge

Indoors, you’ll be seated in padded, dark wood chairs along tile flooring.

Inside Patio Seating at Brown Derby Lounge

Remember, no reservations are needed for this new location. If you’re at the Studios in need of some hearty eats, head on over!

Eats

The menu here is full of delicious options created by Hollywood Brown Derby chefs, so you know you’re getting high-end eats and drinks!

The small plates and desserts menu includes yums like duck confit tacos, Prince Edward Island mussels, and strawberry champagne cheesecake… .

Small Plates and Desserts

Jacquie and Alan tried the Sliders — Wagyu Beef with Cognac-Mustard Aioli, Smoked Gouda Cheese, Bacon, and Avocado; and House-made Chorizo with Chipotle Mayo, Manchego Cheese, Pickles, and crispy Onions for $15.00. This looks like a great deal!!

Wagyu Beef with Cognac-Mustard Aioli, Smoked Gouda Cheese, Bacon, and Avocado; and House-made Chorizo with Chipotle Mayo, Manchego Cheese, Pickles, and crispy Onions

Here’s a peek inside, because [Read more…]

News! Hollywood Brown Derby Patio Lounge May Be Opening Soon in Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

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We have a fun rumor to share!

Learn About:Hollywood Brown Derby
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Disney World Restaurants

We’ve heard through the grapevine that the Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is opening ‘The Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge’ soon — possibly even this week!

The new lounge will be located on the existing patio at the Hollywood Brown Derby, but seating will be on a first come, first served basis. No reservations are required!

This sounds a lot like the great additions of Tutto Gusto and Cava del Tequila in Epcot as well as the Lava Lounge in Downtown Disney.

Patio at Brown Derby

A no-reservation option that still offers some great eats and good drinks!? I’m in.

Eats

Speaking of eats, the menu items at the Lounge are coming from the restaurant’s appetizer menu. You’ll be able to choose from Artisinal Cheeses, Brown Derby Sliders, Duck Confit Tacos, Prince Edward Island Mussels, Charcuterie Board for two, and Brown Derby Shrimp Cocktail.

Andouille-Crusted Prawn Over Black Diamond Cheddar Grits, Wilted Greens, and Ancho Oil

While enjoying some great food you’ll also be able to sip on [Read more…]

Review: Chocolate Butterfinger and Orange Marmalade Cupcakes at The Mara in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

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DFB author Wendy tempts us with treats from The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge in Walt Disney World!

Learn About:Mara
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney World Restaurants

Steps away from the Uzima pool at the Animal Kingdom Lodge and head over to The Mara!

This awesome counter-service spot is a hidden gem, and well worth your time to head over to AKL and explore. We’re always impressed with the offerings here — many of which have an African flavor — and they’ve surprised us again with some unique desserts in the bakery case!

Let’s head over and see what we can find… .

The Mara

Located on the bottom level of Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the Mara has a nature-ific theme — including “trees” that grow up onto the ceiling!

The Mara

The Mara has earned its reputation for some truly unique quick service options: African Stew, a rotating array of soups, and the Falafel Pita, to name a few.

Menu

Previously, though, The Mara Bakery has flown under the radar as a spot for unique desserts.

Though you can certainly find some awesome items in The Mara’s chilled grab-and-go section (HELLO, Zebra Domes!), the bakery case itself often seemed to feature items that are standard across Disney Resorts, especially in comparison to spots like the Contemporary Resort’s Contempo Café or the Polynesian’s Captain Cook’s, where one can often make a new dessert discovery.

Mara Bakery

Bakery Case at The Mara

So it was with some excitement that I went in to sample the Zebra and Giraffe Cupcakes, unique to The Mara!

Cupcakes on the menu

Cupcakes

I must say, while my visit was intended for the cupcakes, it was a little difficult to stick to the plan when my gaze fell upon the Peanut Butter Brownie, and the Chocolate Candy Corn Cupcake complete with Oreo Mickey Ears (this one, of course, being unique to the Halloween season)!

Peanut Butter Brownie

Candy Corn Cupcake with Oreo Mickey Ears

Oh, and by the way, Candy Bar Brownie… one day, you WILL be mine.

Candy Bar Brownie

Even among these happy distractions, however, I was able to regain focus rather quickly, thanks to the awesome presentation of the Zebra and Giraffe Cupcakes. These would stand out in any bakery case!

Giraffe Cupcakes in Case

Zebra cupcakes in case

I love how the animal themeing of these cupcakes help them fit right into their surroundings!

Safari theme at The Mara

Alright, let’s dig in!

Zebra Cupcake

Right off the bat, it should be noted that The Mara’s Zebra Cupcake is NOT the same Zebra Cupcake that you may have enjoyed previously at Animal Kingdom. (And to those of you who became understandably excited when you read the name of this cupcake, I offer my apologies!).

Zebra Cupcake from Animal Kingdom park

Considered on its own, however, this Zebra Cupcake is exactly [Read more…]

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