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EPCOT Food & Wine Festival

Category: News

News! 2013 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Registration Now Open

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Registration for the 2013 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon is now open!

Once again, runDisney invites you to a nighttime race that takes place during the 2013 Epcot Food and Wine Festival.

I can say from experience that this race is incredibly fun!! I can’t wait to hear your stories! This year’s race weekend is November 8-9, 2013!

Pre-Race Taste Party

This year, the weekend kicks off with a Pre-Race Taste Party on Friday, November 8, 2013 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.! The party takes place at the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios where guests can relax before the big race.

Wine and Dine Half Marathon!

The Pre-Race Taste will feature:

  • early entry into Disney’s Hollywood Studios at 6:00 p.m.;
  • a private party at Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show;
  • five tastes from the Epcot Food & Wine Festival;
  • one “signature sip” drink coupon;
  • cash bar;
  • and Disney character meet & greets.

Tickets are $79 (ages 3 and up). Children under 3 do not need a ticket.

*Tickets are non-refundable. Menu options subject to change without notice. Disney Wine & Dine Pre-Race Taste Party is subject to availability. Children under 3 do not need to purchase a Party Ticket. Book now as space is limited! To make a special dietary request, please contact [email protected].

Half Marathon and Finish Line Party

Join the ultimate runners night out as you race a half marathon through three Disney Theme Parks. Throughout your journey, you’ll pass entertainment and characters. Imagine running a race that circles the Tree of Life at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, cruises down the Streets of America underneath the Osborne Spectacle of Dancing Lights in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and finishes near Spaceship Earth at Epcot.

Then, the party gets started after you cross the finish line! Celebrate your achievement at the Finish Line Party – an exclusive, after-hours [Read more…]

From Coffee to Margaritas: The Transformation of Disney World’s BoardWalk Joe’s!

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Disney is always making headlines for their big changes.

The Slow Transformation of Boardwalk Joe's from Coffee to Margaritas

Park updates like MyMagic+, Disneyland’s Cars Land, Disney World’s New Fantasyland get tons of exposure, as they should.

But I think it’s always interesting to look at the not-so-publicized changes that happen without fanfare, too.

A case in point is a little kiosk called BoardWalk Joe’s, located across from Cat Cora’s Kouzzina on the Disney World BoardWalk.

Over the last few years, Disney World has really changed its tune at this spot, transforming it from a coffee stop to a margarita place! Let’s take a look… .

It’s easy to feel nostalgic while strolling the boardwalk where BoardWalk Joe’s once specialized in coffee — we even wrote a whole post that highlighted it!

Boardwalk Joe's was all about coffee!

But a couple of  years ago, Joe’s added some specialty seasonal items, like this Caramel Apple Margarita! This was the first sign of BoardWalk Joe’s transformation…

Caramel Apple Margarita!

And the Frozen Grapefruit Margarita made a seasonal appearance last summer.

Grapefruit Margarita!

Over a couple of years, we kept seeing more and more “specialty” items via this [Read more…]

Get Your Green On!! St. Patrick’s Day Events at Downtown Disney’s Raglan Road

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I had an AWESOME time when I headed to Raglan Road in Downtown Disney for St. Paddy’s Day a couple of years ago, and since then the celebration has only gotten bigger and better!!

THIS year, Raglan Road is making plans for their four-day (!!!!) festival from March 14 – 17, featuring music, dancing, awesome food, and Irish traditions.

Festival Details

Get your green on! Guests can participate in festivities March 14 and 15 from 6 p.m. until 1:15 a.m. and March 16 and 17 from noon until 1:15 a.m.

On Saturday, March 16 and Sunday, St. Patrick’s Day guests will be seated on a first come, first served basis. Saturday, a cover charge of $5 will apply to each guest 18 and over; on Sunday, the cover charge is $10. Reservations can be booked on March 14 by 407-938-0300.

Top musicians and dancers will be performing on multiple stages creating a fun festival atmosphere, and there will be PLENTY of eats and suds to make your week even better! Let’s start with the good stuff…

Food and Beverages

With a selection of beers and authentic cuisine by Irish celebrity chef Kevin Dundon, the “Mighty Festival” is not-to-be-missed!

Lunch Demonstration

In a mighty culinary experience, Master Chef Kevin Dundon and Michelin star Chef Derry Clarke will showcase a lunch demonstration on Wednesday, March 13th, at 1PM. Cost is $55 per person with wine pairings; $45 without wine pairings, plus tax and gratuity. Tables in Wonderland Members will receive a 20% off discount!

Lunch Demo!

I can’t wait to see how that Poached Pear is!!

Poached Pear with Creme Brulee Foam and Beetroot Macaroon

A Tale Of Two Chefs: Signature Dining Experience

And on Thursday, March 14th, at 6:30PM, Chefs Kevin Dundon and Derry Clarke will present a culinary extravaganza! Cost is $105 per person plus tax and gratuity. Tables in Wonderland Members will receive a 20% discount!

A Tale Of Two Chefs!

Check out the goodies — Rack of Spring Lamb and Braised Cottage Lamb Pie, Farm Fresh Vegetables with Twice-Cooked Roast Potato!

Rack of Spring Lamb and Braised Cottage Lamb Pie, Farm Fresh Vegetables with Twice-Cooked Roast Potato

Call 407-938-0800 to book culinary events. Check out www.raglanroad.com for upcoming details.

Music and Dance

Each day over 35 musicians and dancers will perform! Headliners include the most successful U2 tribute show in the world, Elevation!

Elevation Lead Singer on stage at Raglan Road

Plus The Willis Clan, Girsa, Three Dollar Band, Creel, Johnny Snags Norton, and Justin Murphy.

The line-up of Irish band performances will begin with a festival preview March 8-10 by The Willis Clan. Mark your calendars for these performances:

  • The seven full-time champion Raglan Road Dancers will perform daily.
  • Renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast, will lead Irish Dance Workshops Friday through Sunday.
  • Distinguished Dublin-born multi-instrumentalist Declan Masterson, recent touring musical director of Riverdance, will lead Irish Music Workshops.
  • Ceili (kay-lee) traditional music and structured set-dancing event on Saturday, including guest participation.
  • “The Electric Ceili,” will bring a host of Irish musicians and dancers on the Waterfront Stage on Sunday evening.
  • Performances by Raglan Road house band Creel, The Willis Clan, Girsa, Three Dollar Band, and Johnny & Justin.
  • World-famous U2 tribute band Elevation will be playing Saturday and Sunday.

Other Activities

Guests can also enjoy face painting, stilt walkers, competitions, giveaways and St. Patrick’s Day memorabilia.

Celebrate St. Patrick's Day at Raglan Road!

It’s truly an incredible atmosphere and a fun experience for everyone, young and old!! Head out to RR for a rockin’ St. Paddy’s day!

Have you attended an event at Raglan Road? Let us know in the comments below!

NEW! Hot Sandwiches Debut in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square!

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DFB reporter Zach Metzger has a great review of the brand new sandwiches from Liberty Square Market in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom!

Hot dogs, popcorn, turkey legs, baked potatoes: just a few of the vittles available to satisfy your appetite in Walt Disney World’s Liberty Square.

Liberty Square Market, home to the aforementioned hot dogs and baked potatoes, is now also the home to two new sandwiches: the Hot Ham and Cheddar and the Hot Roast Beef and Swiss.

Both sandwiches are $6.99 not including tax, and are served wrapped in foil and piping hot, as advertised. I had the chance to try both!

New Sandwiches in Liberty Square

Liberty Square Hot Roast Beef and Swiss Sandwich

The roast beef is presented on a nice French bread “sub”. The bread is crusty on the outside, providing good bite resistance, and moist and springy on the inside.

Piled high with meat, it’s far from skimpy. The flavor on the roast beef was robust; and the Swiss cheese was also in ample supply and at the perfect stage of melty-ness.

Hot Roast Beef and Swiss Sandwich

I tried to cut through the sandwich to show a cross-section, but the plastic knife lost the battle to the crusty bread. Tearing the sandwich in half worked a bit better, but also mostly destroyed it. Oh well. You can use your imagination to picture a [Read more…]

Disney Springs Rumor! New Restaurants Planned for Disney World’s Downtown Disney

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You’ve probably heard the rumors brewing, but this is the first time that we’ve heard details about changes that may be planned for Downtown Disney Orlando!! Please note that all of this is subject to change (and probably WILL!).

Disney World's Downtown Disney

What’s the Latest?

Along with a new name (Disney Springs), parking garage (thank goodness!), and the re-imagining of Planet Hollywood, new restaurants and shops are now being named in these rumors!

A new “district,” which is being called the Town Center, may part of the proposed plan. Pleasure Island could be known as The Landing, and the Marketplace may return to its roots — The Village Marketplace. Only the West Side area would retain its current label in this structure.

Part of the remodel could bring a two-story entertainment area similar to City Walk at Universal Studios.

Possible New Restaurants?

This photo from Save Pleasure Island showcases a few possible options.

Possible Restaurants for Downtown Disney Orlando!

We can’t wait for more details to emerge, but of course we’re pretty excited about the possible addition of a Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, which we LOVE in Disneyland.

We'd love to see Trader Sam's in Disney World

Here a few other options that are apparently on the block for Disney World’s “Disney Springs:”

  • Planet Hollywood would become The Observatory.
  • Disney Character Dining (TBD)
  • Disney Burger (TBD)
  • Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar
  • Wine Bar (TBD)
  • The Edison
  • Disney Bakery (TBD)
  • Food Truck
  • Powell’s Sweet Shoppe
  • Italian Restaurant (TBD)
  • Argo Tea

    • [Read more…]

FULL Review: 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food Pictures, Booths, Menus, and Prices!

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Whew!! We’ve been goin’ all day to report on the brand new food and beverage marketplaces at the 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!!

We’ve got ALL the photos and reviews below, but overall — these food booths are a hit! In fact, those festival planners have outdone themselves and have given the Epcot Food and Wine Festival a run for its money!!

Let’s take a look at nearly everything you can try at the Flower and Garden Festival this year…

Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food and Beverage Marketplaces

Here are the marketplaces, menus, prices, FOOD PHOTOS, and reviews!!

THE COTTAGE: Savories, Trifles and Tea

– United Kingdom

  • Potato, Chive and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare and Sour Cream
  • Baked Goat’s Brie with Kumquat Chutney**
  • Waterkist Farms Heirloom Tomatoes with house-made Mozzarella, Minus 8 Vinegar and Basil**
  • Chocolate Trifle
  • Berry Trifle
  • Ginger and Tea Trifle
  • Trio of Trifles
  • Hot Teas (Earl Grey, English Breakfast, Lemon Green Tea, Jasmine Green Tea, Spiced Apple Chai, Pumpkin Chai, Mixed Berry Black Tea, Pomegranate and Raspberry, Camomile Honey & Vanilla, Honeybush, Mandarin and Orange, Pure Peppermint, Lemon & Ginger)
  • Peach Cold Brewed Iced Tea
  • Mixed Berries Cold Brewed Iced Tea
  • Poema Cava Brut Rosé
  • Chilled Rose Blush Lemonade – Non alcoholic

The Cottage UK Booth

The Cottage UK Booth Menu

The Baked Goat’s Brie is good, but doesn’t pack as much of a cheese punch as we wish it did! The Kumquat Chutney is like a tangy marmalade!

Baked Goat’s Brie with Kumquat Chutney

The Biscuit and Salmon is a delicious dish! The tartare is fresh with lemon and dill, and the still-warm biscuit was a nice touch.

Potato, Chive and Cheddar Cheese Biscuit with Smoked Salmon Tartare and Sour Cream

This salad offered very fresh and full-flavored tri-colored tomatoes!

Waterkist Farms Heirloom Tomatoes with house-made Mozzarella, Minus 8 Vinegar and Basil

The trifles are available individually, or as a trio as seen here. Each offers about two bites, and our favorite was the green tea!

Trio of Trifles -- chocolate, berry, and ginger tea

BAUERNMARKT: Farmer’s Market

– Adjacent to Germany

  • Savory Bread Pudding with Spring Peas and Wild Mushroom Ragout
  • German Meatloaf Sandwich with Sweet Mustard and Fried Shallots
  • Potato Pancakes with house made Apple Sauce**
  • Florida Avenue American Wheat Ale
  • Krombacher Hefeweizen
  • Goose Island Brewing Company’s Honker Ale
  • Blue Point’s Toasted Lager
  • Beer Flight
  • Hugo – Charles De Fere “Organic” Brut with Elderflower and Mint

Germany Farmers Market Booth

Germany Farmers Market Menu

The meatloaf sandwich is much more of a “ham” loaf, actually! 😉 The breaded shallots are a [Read more…]

Review: Dole Whip with Spiced Rum at the 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

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Well, we’re busy putting together a HUGE-MONGOUS post for you this afternoon featuring ALL of the eats and drinks at the 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival.

But I couldn’t wait to showcase the star of the show — the Dole Whip with Spiced Rum at the Pineapple Promenade booth!

Dole Whip with Spiced Rum at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival

This menu item has proven to be so popular that THIS is what the line looked like when the booth first opened this morning!

Pineapple Promenade Line this MORNING!

Anyway, when you get YOUR Dole Whip with Rum, know that it will be a little smaller than what you’re used to when you purchase at Aloha Isle in the Magic Kingdom.

It’s not served in “float” form — instead, prepare yourself for a regular serving of Dole Whip with a small amount Siesta Key Spiced Rum poured over the top. (How much rum? When we asked the cast member, he said [Read more…]

Live Updates Today! 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Food Pics

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I’m so excited that it’s finally here! The 2013 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival — complete with 12 brand new food and beverage marketplaces — is now officially open!

And, as you would expect from us here at DFB, we’re on the ground to show you everything edible so you can make good decisions about where to dish out your dough on your F&G visit! 😀

Today we’ll be live blogging and social media-ing what we’re trying. Follow us on twitter, facebook, pinterest, tumblr, and instagram for pics, then come on back to DisneyFoodBlog.com this afternoon to see an incredible collection of food and drink photos from the festival.

Follow Us Here Today for Food Updates From the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!

Twitter.com/DisneyFoodBlogFacebook.com/DisneyFoodBlogPinterest.com/AJWolfedisneyfoodblog.tumblr.comInstagram.com/disneyfoodblog

2013 Cinderella Topiary

I can’t wait to share details with you from this unprecedented event — 12 Food and Beverage Marketplaces at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!!

See ya real soon!

News! Rix Lounge Announces Tequila Tasting at Coronado Springs Resort

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Now and then we like to explore the lesser-known hang-outs at Walt Disney World. Tucked into the main building at Coronado Springs Resort and specializing in awesome tequilas (they’re run by the same folks who run Cava del Tequila!) Rix Lounge is a unique place to unwind!

Rix Lounge Entrance

We’ve got a photo tour of this fun nightspot for you below, but first I have some super fun news to share for those of us who love tequila and beverage tastings!

Rix Lounge’s FIRST EVER Tequila Tasting

Rix Lounge will host their first ever Tequila Tasting on Saturday, March 30th, at 8pm! A tequila ambassador (Hilda, maybe?) will guide guests through the history and production process of tequila, the different types and categories of tequila, and of course a tasting.

Rix Tequila Tasting

I’m guessing this will be a LOT like the tequila tastings from the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, which have now been turned into full blown tequila lunches! The tasting will include Milagro Select Barrel Silver, Partida Reposado, and Gran Centenario Añejo. A delicious Sangrita will be the finishing touch.

Tickets are available to the general public (ages 21 and up) at $30 per person in advance, or $35 per person at the door. A table reservation is required.

Rix Lounge Photo Tour

Now, for those of you who haven’t ever been to this little-known Disney hot spot, let’s take a gander around! Here’s a photo tour for ya!!

Rix Lounge Decor

Many special events are held at Rix Lounge, including kid birthday parties and romantic weddings! So, check the schedule before planning your evening. There is [Read more…]

New Menu Options at Earl of Sandwich! (And Holiday Sandwich Year-Round!!)

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Update: Disneyland Annual Passholders get a 20% discount (that’s twice the Passholder dining discount!) on Mondays and Tuesdays in March 2013 at Earl Of Sandwich in Downtown Disney Anaheim.

We’ve got some seriously rad news for all of you fellow Earl-lovers today!!!

Learn About:Earl of Sandwich
Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

In Disney World, Disneyland, and Disneyland Paris, Earl of Sandwich specializes in delicious counter-service eats. (Read an Earl of Sandwich Review in Disney World here and an Earl of Sandwich Review in Disneyland here to find out what all the fuss is about!)

And here’s the latest — new menu items are being added the first week of March, including hand-tossed salads, handcrafted wraps, and Artisan soups…and the HOLIDAY SANDWICH will now be offered year round!!

“Earl of Sandwich is known for the World’s Greatest Hot Sandwich. We now have great wraps, salads, and soups to match”, says Steve Heeley, President & CEO of Orlando based Earl of Sandwich.

Wrapped Earl of Sandwich...sandwich!

The Full Montague is a fan favorite at Earl of Sandwich

Yep — there’ll be a lot more to choose from the next time you head over to Earl!

New Earl of Sandwich Menu Options

Healthful options for on-the-go dining is just one reason that Earl of Sandwich is so popular! Let’s check out the new items!

  • 8 Great new “Greens” Hand–Tossed Salads, including Berry, Almond & Chicken Salad, BBQ Chicken, and Thai Salads.
  • 7 Great new “Hand Crafted” Wraps, including Buffalo Chicken (YES, PLEASE!!!!); Baja Chicken; and Chicken, Bacon & Avocado Wraps.
  • A new line of high quality Artisan Soups, including chicken noodle, black bean, chicken tortilla, butternut squash, and other great new flavors. Yes, the signature tomato soup will still be available!
  • New, lighter breakfast offerings, including oatmeal with fruit, nut, and brown sugar toppings. Also look for New York style bagels and cream cheese.
  • Two great sandwiches join the permanent line-up — the cult favorite Holiday Turkey Sandwich, and the [Read more…]

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