Review: Anna's Happy Birthday Cupcake (A "Frozen Fever" Treat)

Review: Anna’s Happy Birthday Cupcake (A “Frozen Fever” Treat)

Happy Birthday, Princess Anna!

All over Disney World and Disneyland, guests are invited to celebrate the birthday of Frozen’s Princess Anna (she’s a princess, right?). This goes hand in hand with the Frozen Fever film short where our Arendelle friends attempt to throw her a surprise party, and Anna’s Happy Birthday Cupcake is one of three Frozen Fever treats brought out for the occasion.

Anna’s Happy Birthday Cupcake

I grabbed mine at Epcot’s Kringla Bakeri og Kafe in Norway, but this is just one of the spots where you can find it. From parks to resorts, you can grab it at several locations including the Beach Club Marketplace and Epcot’s Sunshine Seasons in Disney World, and Jolly Holiday Bakery and The Coffee House in Disneyland (find the full list of locations here!).

When I mention our “Arendelle Friends,” that clearly includes Olaf, who tops this treat. (Incidentally, you’ll also find this white chocolate piece topping Olaf’s Perfect Sundae Day.)

Olaf Topper

The cupcake is a simply a basic yellow cake— which, when I think about it, goes along pretty well with [Read more…]

Review: Sweet Treats at Main Street Bakery Starbucks in Magic Kingdom

By AJ 5 Comments

Time for another visit to the Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom!

Learn About:Main Street Bakery

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

It’s long been a DFB tradition to stop by Main Street Bakery first thing to kick off the day with a morning pastry. In the past, I’ve also loved popping into this spot to see what’s new in the way of cupcakes.

While things aren’t exactly the same as they were in the days before MSB became a Starbucks location, you will still find an assortment of breakfast offerings in the morning and sweet treats throughout the day. (Check out our recent review of the Bacon and Gouda Artisan Sandwich.)

And a sweet snack was what my friend and I were after during our late night stop into the coffee shop recently. Let’s check out what we found.

Mocha Cupcake

While many (MANY) of my sentimental favorites, like their amazing cinnamon rolls, are no longer available at Main Street Bakery, the spot has continued to offer some cupcake options that you don’t find at your neighborhood Starbucks. That’s cool, right? I mean, it’s not as awesome as that cinnamon roll, but still. (And if you’re missing the cinnamon roll as much as me, head back to Gaston’s Tavern, where you’ll find a very similar model. Or make it at home with this recipe.)

But back to cupcakes. On our visit, we decided to give the Mocha Cupcake a try.

Mocha Cupcake

This is mostly chocolate on chocolate. We didn’t really discern much in the way of coffee flavor, although the garnish of Chocolate-Covered Espresso Beans would indicate there’s some java there.

(You’ll have to excuse my lighting. I got this cupcake at around 9:00 at night while the parade was passing by and the Starbucks was PACKED. It was tough to jostle my way to a good location without weird yellow nighttime light.)

Mocha Cupcake — Cross Section

Ultimately, while this was fine, I’ve had better. Unless you’re just dying for a chocolate cupcake, I’d probably pass this one up in favor of something more interesting…

Salted Caramel Square with Pecans

…Like the Salted Caramel Square with Pecans.

Ok. Maybe I’m just a sucker for anything that combines the words “salt” and “caramel”. This was very good, but the pretzel game is strong in here; so it was much more crunchy and less creamy than I expected.

Salted Caramel Square with Pecans

Salted Caramel Tart

But it was this final option that truly converted me to Starbucks’ sweets. Let me introduce you to the [Read more…]

News! “Rebel Hangar — A Star Wars Lounge Experience” Reservations Available NOW

By AJ 20 Comments

UPDATE: Great news! Disney has opened online Advance Dining Reservations for Rebel Hangar for WEEKDAYS in addition to Star Wars Weekends, from May 15 through June 14th!Star Wars Weekends

begin at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 15th and WE. CAN’T. WAIT!

Especially now, since there’s a whole new dining hangout for all you Rebels out there coming to Echo Lake: the Rebel Hangar: A Star Wars Lounge Experience!

Here’s what we know: according to Disney, the Rebel Hangar was “once a known hangout of Rebel pilots, aliens, and smugglers.” Themeing of the atmosphere will be a major part of the experience, with abandoned spacecraft and remnants of vehicles framing the entry. But themeing of the FOOD seems to be just as much of a draw!

Among the items on the menu: some Fruit and Cheese Sabers…

And Ensalada Naboo!

The Slider Sampler featuring “The Sith” barbecue-braised brisket and “The Jedi” barbecued pulled chicken features items for your inner Jedi or your Dark Side.

A lovely Trio of Thermal Detonators (aka spicy pork wings), anyone 😉 ?

Check out the Pilot’s Pomme Frites with everyone’s favorite Wookie!

Chips and SITH!!! Can you even handle it?!?

I’m already loving The Dark Fried Chicken [Read more…]

Get Your Cinco de Mayo on at Disney World and Disneyland!

By AJ Leave a Comment

Isn’t it awesome how we just roll right from Star Wars Day into Margarita Day? What a great week!!

OK, so where should you go at the East and West Coast Disney parks to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on this not-so-ordinary Tuesday? I’m happy to share my suggestions… ;-D

Margarita Flight at La Cava del Tequila

La Cava Del Tequila in Disney World’s Epcot

If you’re in Disney World tonight, it’s time to head over to Epcot and settle in (ideally in the early afternoon, because this place will be PACKED come evening) at La Cava del Tequila.

I know you’ve heard me talk about it a million times, but for those who are new to DFB (welcome!), this tiny tequila cave has it all figured out.

Tequila experts serve only the best, and you can choose from a full menu of incredible options — shots, margaritas, flights, and more.

Avocado Margarita at La Cava del Tequila

There’s no more authentic place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo (which, let’s face it, is pretty much just a holiday dedicated to Tequila at this point) than here.

Tortilla Jo’s in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District

Over on the West Coast, you lucky ducks get to head on over to Tortilla Jo’s in Downtown Disney! This fun romp of a restaurant is sprawling, offering indoor and outdoor seating as well as a great menu including house-made tortillas (of course).

Tortilla Jo’s raspberry margarita

Indulge in the sangria, a margarita, or [Read more…]

Review: New Desserts at Tamu Tamu Refreshments in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

By AJ 12 Comments

So, if you’ve been following along recently, you know that LOTS of changes are in store for Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

Learn About:Tamu Tamu Refreshments

Animal Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

Among them, Starbucks is due to open in mid-June, and the new Harambe Market will bring us FOUR new walkup food windows (along with merchandise shops) when it opens in late May. Add to that there are still rumors floating around about the possible addition of a Table Service restaurant to be located in part of what is currently Pizzafari… well, suffice it to say, the dining options at Animal Kingdom are certainly expanding!

With so many new food stops in the works, it’s bound to affect some of the established eateries around the park. In fact, we’ve already begun to see hints of change starting at Tamu Tamu Refreshments.

Tamu Tamu Refreshments

You see, it’s located in the village of Harambe in Animal Kingdom’s Africa, so it’s just across the way from where the Market will be.

Location of Tamu Tamu in Animal Kingdom’s Africa

Since the Harambe Market will have a whole slew of new entrees to choose from, the menu at Tamu Tamu just switched over to focus entirely on desserts and drinks as opposed to its previous entrees like curry dishes and the Pulled Beef Sandwich.

Lucky me, I had a group of friends visiting Animal Kingdom who offered to try them ALL!

Taste-Testers!!

Or perhaps I should say, “Lucky THEM,” because altogether there are FIVE desserts on the menu!

All-new Tamu Tamu menu

While the Pineapple Whip Soft-serve (with Dark or Coconut Rum) has been available since last May, the Chocolate Waffle with Espresso Mousse, Double Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream Sandwich, Mickey Ice Cream Chocolate Cookie Sundae, and Chocolate-covered Espresso Beans are all BRAND NEW to Tamu Tamu!

Tamu Tamu desserts

Let’s take them one by one, starting with the Chocolate Waffle topped with an Espresso Mousse.

Chocolate Waffle with Espresso Mousse

The group reported that the waffle was [Read more…]

May the Fourth Be With You! — Star Wars Merch ON SALE TODAY!

By Brooke Leave a Comment

It’s (one of) the most wonderful times of the year — if you’re a Star Wars fan, that is!

If you need some gear to get you ready for your trip, then you’ve come to the right place! But even if you don’t have the time or cash to travel light years away, we think that embracing your inner Rebel (or Empire Loyalist) is the next best thing.

Let’s take a look at some fun options. And keep in mind — Think Geek Star Wars Gear is 20% off TODAY! And as a bonus, you’ll receive a free Star Wars Pin with Star Wars orders of $20 or more!

Star Wars LIGHT UP Chop Sabers

Because you NEED chopsticks that look like light sabers. You know you do. Choose from blue or red, depending on which side of the galactic battle you’d prefer to channel.

Star Wars LIGHT UP Chop Sabers

R2-D2 Sauce Dispenser

But of course, the next logical question will be, “Where am I going to store my soy sauce?”

Why, in your droid, obvi! Because the R2-D2 Sauce Dispenser is a must for your next gathering. And despite the picture, you can store other sauces in R2. Olive oil, hot sauce, you name it.

R2-D2 Soy Sauce Dispenser

Put that little guy to work (he totally loves feeling useful).

Star Wars Lightsaber BBQ Tongs

Barbecue like a boss with your very own Star Wars Lightsaber BBQ Tongs. Modeled after Darth’s elegant weapon of choice, the tongs come with a red cover to look just like a light saber in action, and a slide button gives you all the classic sound effects. What?! Happiest day of your life? I know.

Light Saber BBQ Tongs

Go ahead. Show that steak who’s in charge.

Darth Vader Light Saber Candlestick

And you thought the Lord Vader didn’t know anything about romance.

Show her the softer side of your villainy with this mood-setting Darth Vader Light Saber Candlestick.

Darth Vader Light Saber Candlestick

It comes with three no drip red taper candles, so your nights will be well lit for some time to come.

Star Wars Stackable Mugs

Have a little fun with your morning java when you serve it in these [Read more…]

Review: Tutto Gusto in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion

By AJ 9 Comments

It’s time once again to look in on one of my favorite “hidden” spots in Epcot — Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar!

Learn About:Tutto Gusto

Epcot Restaurants
Disney World Restaurants

Tutto Gusto, located on the left as you travel through the Italy Pavilion toward Via Napoli at the back, hasn’t been open for very long. But in the short span of three years, Tutto Gusto has become a part of the fabric of World Showcase.

With its commitment to offering small plates that feature authentic Italian cuisine, Tutto Gusto has continued to be a DFB favorite. But you know me — I’m never content to continue recommending a spot unless I know for sure that it still deserves to be recommended!

So, in the name of research, a friend and I headed there to grab a light dinner during a recent visit to Walt Disney World. We tried some new things and revisited some favorites. Let’s check it out.

Atmosphere

Although the sign for Tutto Gusto is perched high and prominent, it’s still sort of easy to miss it if you aren’t looking for it. You may mistake it for another entrance to neighboring Tutto Italia, if you notice it at all.

Tutto Italia and Gusto Wine Cellar

The entrance sits back a little, but Cast Members are usually flanking the door, and you’ll also notice the menus posted outside. Pay attention and you’ll find it.

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar

Walk in and (after your eyes adjust to the darkened area) you’ll notice that the bar is front and center, serving as the small venue’s main feature.

Gusto Bar

Wine is king here, but you’ll also find an increasingly interesting array of Italian craft beers. Tutto Gusto also offers a full liquor bar. Check out the Italian-inspired cocktail menu, or order your favorite. Whatever you’re looking for, they can make it.

Gusto Bar

Because this is a wine bar, however, much of the real estate is given over to vino. Amuse yourself as you wait by checking out the ever-changing variety of Italian wines that are available by the glass or bottle.

Wine Fridge

But Tutto Gusto has more to offer than just beverages. From the get go, I prized this spot for their amazing array of small plates. There’s a display of some of the offerings to whet your appetite.

Antipasti Showcase at Tutto Gusto

As is usually the case when you’re dining anywhere in the Disney universe, be sure to look up! The details of a spot usually include some really cool lighting, and Gusto is no exception.

Wine Bottle Lighting

You will find that Tutto Gusto can reach capacity rather easily — hence those Cast Members stationed at the doors. There isn’t a ton of seating here, but what you do find is rustic, cozy, and fairly comfortable. It is a little “close”, however, so if you prize privacy or personal space, you may want to look at the couch options.

Gusto Table

Speaking of…you’ll find more comfy seating flanking the fireplace, another nice focal point in the small space.

Gusto Fireplace Area

Tables and stools here are low and well padded. It’s a great place to relax and catch up with friends, or to just take a breather from the bright sunshine.

Fireplace Area Seating at Tutto Gusto

And it truly is a beautiful location. Personally, I think they hit the themeing out of the park. Don’t you love the brick ceiling?

Tutto Gusto Seating

Having shown you around, I’m ready to get down to the serious business of [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: May 3, 2015

By Brooke 2 Comments

Hey all! Well, the Disney Food news this week was expansive, diverse, and dramatic. We saw tons of comments and feedback on the just-announced 2015 Walt Disney World Free Dining offer.

And readers were equally passionate about the news that Ghirardelli Soda Fountain at both Disney California Adventure and Disney World’s Downtown Disney would no longer be offering peanut products. While we will miss their delicious Gold Rush Sundae, many readers with allergy concerns are excited about this new development.

We also saw some much-anticipated news out of Disney’s Animal Kingdom about all the new stuff happening there! Let’s check it out.

Disney Food News

Ghirardelli has discontinued the use of peanut products in their Walt Disney World and Disneyland locations, as part of a company-wide move toward a peanut-free environment.
A limited-run test is underway giving guests the option to pre-order food items at Backlot Express and Fantasmic concessions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto and Tiki Terrace at Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort are now officially open!
We’re taking a first look at the exterior of the new Starbucks at Animal Kingdom, scheduled to open soon!
The 2015 Walt Disney World Free Dining Offer is back for select travel dates and resort locations in 2015!
We’re giving you a sneak peek at the brand new Harambe Marketplace at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, set to open later this month.

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 the latest menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, 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 about Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday!

Today, we’re featuring more irresistible sweet treats!

“It isn’t a trip to Disney without one!” according to reader Katherine Jennings Lewis. I totally agree! Mickey Bars are a must!

Mickey Bars For All!

Reader Becky Ginther found one of our favorites — the King Cupcake at Disney’s Pop Century Resort — this past week! Mmmmm…bacon!

King Cupcake with Cute New White Chocolate Garnish!

King Cupcake with New White Chocolate Garnish!

Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us!

Deal of the Week: 2015-2016 Disney World Vacation Must-Have E-Book Sale!

OK — so you have a Walt Disney World Trip on the books for this year — Woohoo!! There’s nothing more exciting than counting down the days to your next Walt Disney World Trip!

But, even the most spontaneous Disney fan knows that planning ahead is the key to a stress-less vacay. And that mantra is absolutely true when it comes to dining.

If you really want to dine in the hottest restaurants, you pretty much have to plan ahead. Be spontaneous, of course. But get a couple Advance Dining Reservations in place.

But which ones?

That’s where Disney Food Blog comes in! You already enjoy our reviews, news, and tips daily on our Blog. But did you know — that’s JUST the tip of the iceberg. Because we have lots more to share with you in our complete line of DFB Guides.

If you’re ready for a fun, easy way to personalize eating and drinking your way through Disney, then check out the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book.
Fully updated for your 2015-2016 adventures, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 490 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subject — Eating Your Way Through Disney! So you save time and money as you enjoy planning one of the most important parts of your trip. 😉

And to thank all of you for your support of DFB, we are offering extra savings on our most popular DFB Guide right now. Just enter promo code 2015 at checkout and you’ll save $4 off of our cover price of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book!

But if you’d like to enjoy even more detail, check out another great offer.

DFB Everything Bundle SALE!

If you’d like even more great information, pictures, and tips, then the DFB Everything Bundle is the right fit for you.

And to get you ready for that next big trip, we are offering the DFB Everything Bundle for $15 off the already low price! It’s like getting an entire book for free. Just enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer.

The Everything Bundle includes, well, Everything! When you purchase this special bundle of DFB Guides, you’ll get it all: [Read more…]

Sneak Peek: Harambe Marketplace Opens in Disney’s Animal Kingdom in Late May

By AJ 15 Comments

It’s been fairly quiet in Disney’s Animal Kingdom as of late… but all that’s about to change! Disney has provided a few glimpses of what will be the new Harambe Market, opening in late May!

Disney shares that the story behind the Market revolves around it serving as a center of commerce and place of welcome for visitors from all around the world who come to the village in order to explore the animals of Africa on the reserve.

While the marketplace will also feature merchandise spots, food will be the focus, featuring four walk-up windows serving African-inspired street food, with seating for over 200 guests. The idea is to wander and find what catches your fancy, though you may find it hard to decide…

harambe market disneys animal kingdom 11

Kitamu Grill will be serving up Skewered Chicken as as well as a Kabob Flatbread Sandwich.

Famous Sausages will feature sausage Corn Dogs, with the unique distinction of [Read more…]

Disneyland Recipe: Matterhorn Macaroons

By AJ 12 Comments

Today, we are heading back to Disneyland for some inspiration in the kitchen!

I recently stumbled upon this brilliant recipe by Rumbly Tumbly. While my attention perked up as soon as I saw a recipe for one of my favorite Disneyland Treats, the Matterhorn Macaroon, I was even more excited to see that one of my DFB posts had inspired the author to try her hand at recreating the treats in the first place!

Disneyland’s Matterhorn Macaroon

Shannon’s version looks so much like the original and sounds so chewy, moist and delicious. I’m definitely inspired to try my own hand at these giant treats!

Matterhorn Macaroons

Inspired by the Original Treat at Disneyland
Makes 12 Macaroons

Ingredients:
1 cup room temperature butter
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon almond extract
1/4 teaspoon coconut extract
1 cup sweetened, shredded coconut – see note below for how to prepare coconut
2 cups all purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 bag of Wilton Bright White Candy melts
decorators sugar for sprinkling

Instructions: [Read more…]

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