What's New Around Walt Disney World: November 18th, 2014

What’s New Around Walt Disney World: November 18th, 2014

Ready for another trip around the World? We’re heading to three parks and a few resorts to check out holiday treats, gingerbread feats, and new menu eats! And which Counter Service location is now serving up steak? Just read on to find out and see What’s New!

HOLIDAY TREATS

Red and green aren’t the only colors taking over Disney World now that the holiday season has launched around here… hues of blue decorate the festive snacks at this year’s brand new “Frozen” Gingerbread Display at the Contemporary Resort!

Contemporary Resort Gingerbread Display

We tried the Blue Raspberry Cake Gelato…

Blue Raspberry Cake Gelato

Read our review and see all the other treats available at the new display here!

Get ready for all your favorite Disney World bakery items (we’re talking Krispy Treats, Candy Apples, and Mickey Macarons) to be dressed up for the holiday season in spots like the Main Street Confectionery, Seashore Sweets, and Big Top Treats.

Holiday Bakery Case

Ornament Candy Apples

More candy apples!

Holiday cupcakes

Red and Green Mickey Macarons

And now let’s look into some ways the Parks are getting into the [Read more…]

2014 Gingerbread House Displays at Walt Disney World

By Kim LaPaglia 9 Comments

Once again, visions of gingerbread houses will become reality at select Walt Disney World resort hotels!

Gingerbread Mickey Cookie

The holiday season is underway as Mickey and his elves (and some talented chefs!) get busy filling the resorts and parks with seasonal decor, merchandise, and treats. Plan to stop by the resorts to see the displays, purchase a pin, and/or meet one of the fabulous chefs!

Contemporary Resort

And how cool is it that the Contemporary’s NEW gingerbread display showcases characters from Disney’s popular film, “Frozen” in the artistic style of Disney Legend Mary Blair! We reported on all the details last week. Check out all the details (including festive treats!!) on the Frozen Gingerbread Display here.

Frozen Gingerbread Display

Grand Floridian Resort

The impressive gingerbread house churns out baked goods made from a classic Austrian recipe. Holiday treats for sale include cookies, shingles,ornaments, and houses — all made from gingerbread. Other freshly made items include Stollen Bread, chocolate peppermint bark, and truffles. Gingerbread decorating tips are given in free demonstrations! Opening date: November 23, 2014.

Life-size!

After 400 hours of baking, the chefs spent 160 hours decorating the house. This unique 80 square feet of retail space is 16 feet high by 17 feet wide and constructed with 1,000 board feet of trim, 60 sheets of plywood, 40 window panes, 100 square feet of display, and 10,000 pieces of gingerbread used.

Looking Down on the Grand Floridian Gingerbread House

The immense amount of gingerbread was made with 700 lbs. of chocolate, 1,050 lbs. honey, 600 lbs. powdered sugar, 35 lbs. spices, 800 lbs. flour, 140 pints egg whites. and 180 lbs. apricot glaze. Wow!

BoardWalk Inn

Inside the gorgeous lobby of the BoardWalk Inn, the Sweet Treats gingerbread display conjures visions of a Jersey Shore concession stand. We love the whimsical decor!

Gingerbread Shingle from Disney’s BoardWalk

Beach Club

Once again, a life-size carousel will be the centerpiece of the Beach Club’s lobby. Look for the seven Hidden Mickeys! Take home treats including small gingerbread kits will be available for purchase at the Beach Club Marketplace. Watch for inspiring demonstrations by pastry chefs. Opening date: November 25, 2014.

Carousel Horse at Disney’s Beach Club

Think your holiday baking list is long? It took [Read more…]

Review: Liberty Tree Tavern at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

By AJ 17 Comments

We are heading to one of my favorite Walt Disney World restaurants today — Liberty Tree Tavern at Magic Kingdom!

Learn About:Liberty Tree Tavern

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

“This place is awesome, why?” you ask? Because it’s FOOD and LEARNING all in ONE! Shazam!!! Beat THAT, Be Our Guest!!! ;-D

OK, so I clearly have a soft spot in my heart for LTT, and it really is a bunch of comfort food with a hearty side of history blended in. Ready to take a peek? Time to board the learning train! Woo-woo!

Atmosphere

Liberty Tree Tavern is situated in Liberty Square, just a stone’s throw from Cinderella Castle. While the main focus of Liberty Square and the restaurant itself is a celebration of Colonial American History, it’s also an important spot in Disney History; Liberty Tree opened with the park on October 1, 1971. See? Staying power.

Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom

Enter the lobby and check in at the podium just to the left of the door. The lobby itself is cozy and rustic, with wood paneling and wrought iron chandeliers. A huge fireplace — the kind used for cooking and big enough to stand in — is the focal point of the room. But soaring, two-story ceilings and all of those hard surfaces can make for a lot of noise. Be prepared!

Be sure to arrange an advance dining reservation if you’d like to eat here, as it’s usually a pretty busy place. And keep in mind that lunch and dinner have different menus and service styles. More about that in a bit!

Liberty Tree Tavern Lobby

Once your table is ready, you’ll be announced by a cast member — Town Crier style! Talk about an entrance. 😉 But get your head out of the clouds, already; we have learning to do! En route to your table, have a look around; there are some interesting details here and you don’t want to overlook them.

Within Liberty Tree Tavern, you’ll find six distinct rooms or seating areas, each named for a notable historical figure. See if your favorite Colonial American hero numbers among them; the list includes Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, John Paul Jones, Paul Revere, Betsy Ross, and George Washington.

This spot with hats and coats hanging by the door has always been one of my favorite details. There’s John Paul Jones to the right!

Coats and Hat Hanging at the Ready!

Walls in all of the seating areas are covered with Colonial-Era paintings and portraits, and you’ll also find super detailed decorative touches, like this model ship.

Portrait and Model Ship

You’ll know Betsy Ross’s Room by the flag, of course!

Flag in Betsy Ross Room

Founding Father Benjamin Franklin’s portrait hangs in the room commemorating his life and work.

Benjamin Franklin Room

You’ll also find his famous kite! I love this. You’re SO going to impress your friends by knowing about all of these details. You can see your kids’ “what I learned on my vacation” report writing itself, can’t you?

Kite in Ben Franklin Room

Here’s more from the John Paul Jones room.

John Paul Jones Room — Inside

When it comes to seating and surroundings, you may find yourself feeling like [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: November 16, 2014

By Kim LaPaglia 3 Comments

Disney Parks and Resorts are busy decking the halls with magical holiday decor.

Contemporary Resort Gingerbread Display

And this year, there’s a new gingerbread display featuring Frozen characters at Disney’s Contemporary Resort! The character depictions received a Mary Blair transformation and they are simply adorable! Of course, we really love the Frozen themed treats.

Click below for all the details on this week’s Disney Food News…

Disney Food News

Disney World’s Contemporary Resort debuts its 2014 Gingerbread Display featuring the characters from Frozen!
Disneyland has announced dates for the 2014 handmade candy canes!
Epcot will be celebrating the Holidays Around the World with special treats to be found around World Showcase throughout the season!
The Disney World standard Bar and Lounge Menu has received a recent makeover.
Disneyland Fantasmic! Dining Packages begin December 12th.

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 restaurant closures, Chef Kevin Dundon Award Nominations, 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 from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday!

There’s a chill in the air! Let’s take a look at some Reader Finds featuring Frozen-themed cakes…

First up, a birthday cake from Facebook Friend Stephanie. Awesome!

Frozen!

And here’s another masterpiece sent in by Facebook Friend Amelia. Absolutely gorgeous!

Do You Want To Build A Snowman?

And here’s an extra: A sneak peek at Trattoria Al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn tweeted by Daniel. Thanks, Wanderman!!

Take a peek!

Do you have a Favorite Find? Share, please!

DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2014

Tis the season to eat, drink, and go to Walt Disney World! And that means it’s time to pick up a copy of the DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2014 e-Book!

The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book Is Here!

The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays 2014 e-Book

features 310 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.
New chapter on where to dine with no advance dining reservations.
New chapter on 10 must-eat snacks this holiday season.
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 full chapter dedicated to all “New for 2014” 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.
Updated Scavenger Hunts
Disney Cruise Line Chapter
A Preview of the 2015 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!

Holiday Guide Sample Pages

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

Disney Holiday Gift Guide 2014: Star Wars Kitchen Goodies

By AJ 5 Comments

Could you use a little help from The Force with your gift-giving this holiday season? Well, we might have a few ideas to get you started… And the best part is you don’t have to go to a galaxy far, far away to nab them!

Star Wars Baking Accessories

’Tis the season for all things gingerbread men… but what about the oft overlooked gingerbread sith lord, hmm? These Star Wars Gingerbread Cookie Cutters include Darth Vader, a Stormtrooper, Boba Fett, Chewbacca, Yoda, and (the cutest ever) C-3PO.

Star Wars Gingerbread Cookie Cutters

What could be more helpful than having a droid in the kitchen while baking up all those cookies? This R2-D2 Measuring Cup Set includes 4 measuring cups and 4 measuring spoons.

R2-D2 Measuring Cup Set

This Darth Vader Apron is for the cook who really likes to be in control of their kitchen or grill.

Darth Vader Apron

Star Wars Chopsticks and More

“Your feeble skills” may be no match for the Dark Side, but if you can use chopsticks, you’re [Read more…]

Dine With Cinderella at Citricos at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort (well…at least until Cinderella’s Royal Table reopens)

By Kim LaPaglia 4 Comments

As we shared on our News Pin Board, Cinderella’s Royal Table in the Magic Kingdom is slated to close for a lengthy refurbishment beginning early January and extending to March 2015.

Learn About:Citricos

Grand Floridian
Disney World Restaurants

With the temporary closure of this royal venue, the Disney princesses will move to Citricos at the Grand Floridian Resort. Starting January 8th, a breakfast/brunch experience will be offered daily at this restaurant just a monorail or boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom!

Similar to the welcoming tradition at Cinderella’s Royal Table, Cinderella will meet and greet with guests upon their arrival, while other Disney princesses mingle at each table.

Cinderella greets guests in her castle

As always, you can take photos and collect autographs of the Disney royals. The Magical Wishing Ceremony will also move over to Citricos — a fun, interactive experience that involves souvenir wands and swords handed out to young guests.

Sword Action at Cinderella’s Royal Table

Choose to have breakfast or brunch as hours will extend from 8AM to 2:20PM at a cost of $49.99 and $31.99 for ages 3-9. Guests on the Disney Dining Plan can pay with 2 table service entitlements per person.

Looking out over the Grand Floridian's court yard

Citricos looks out over the Grand Floridian’s court yard

To reserve your Citricos princess meal, call 407-WDW-DINE. Reservations will become available for Walt Disney World Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members on December 3, 2014, before opening to all guests the next day.

Adult Menu

APPETIZERS OF THE COURT
Bakery Basket

Choice of One:
Garden Salad–Artisanal Greens, Endive, Roasted Carrots, Sugar Snap Peas, and Marcona Almonds with Riesling Vinaigrette
Assorted Fresh Fruits

ENTRÉES ROYALE
Choice of One:
Traditional Breakfast–Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Bacon, and Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes
Scrambled Egg Whites, Hot Ten-Grain Cereal, Greek Yogurt topped with Granola, Whole-Grain Bread, and Fresh Fruit
Steak and Slow-Poached Eggs with Twice-cooked Breakfast Potatoes and Wilted Spinach
Grilled Ham and Biscuit, Slow Poached Eggs topped with Sausage Gravy
Market-inspired Fish with Angel Hair Pasta, and Aromatic Tomato Sauce
Florida Shrimp with Creamy Cheddar Cheese and Smoked Bacon Grits

DESSERT TRIO

Beverages included:
Unlimited Coffee (regular/decaf), Iced Tea (regular/decaf),Fountain Beverages, and Juices (Apple/Orange/Tomato)

Choice of one Adult Specialty [Read more…]

New “Frozen” Gingerbread Display Debuts at Disney World’s Contemporary Resort

By Wendy 16 Comments

It’s time to ring in the season with the famous Disney World Resort Gingerbread Displays!

While displays throughout various resorts are in different stages towards completion, the Contemporary Resort has debuted its brand new 2014 Gingerbread Display themed to (shocker, I know) Frozen!

Contemporary Resort Gingerbread Display

This impressive display brings together current and classic as the Frozen characters are designed in the vintage style of Mary Blair, as is fitting for the Contemporary. And the whole thing (which looks a lot like a Norwegian Stave Church) is set against a pretty familiar looking background. It’s Arendelle meets “it’s a small world.”

Contemporary Resort Gingerbread Display sign

Frozen Friends

“It’s a Small World” design

As always, there are some great fun facts regarding the ingredients that make up this enormous display!

Ingredients!

And those 14 Hidden Olafs? Just look among the characters to locate a few.

Olaf… and teeny tiny Olaf

See the sliver of silver on the bottom left? That’s one!

Directly next to the display is a counter topped with gingerbread selling [Read more…]

2014 Disneyland Candy Cane Dates Announced!

By Kim LaPaglia 12 Comments

Tis the season! As the holiday decor goes up around the parks and resorts, the Disneyland bakeries are busy mixing up traditional recipes! The highly-anticipated Hand-Crafted Candy Canes from the Disneyland Resort can soon be yours! That’s right; we’ve got the dates.

Haven’t heard about the candy canes? Check out this post that showcases our awesome Disneyland candy cane adventure.

Hand Made Candy Canes from The Candy Palace

Just like last year, Candy Cane making will alternate between Candy Palace on Main Street USA in Disneyland and Trolley Treats over on Buena Vista Street at Disney California Adventure.

HOW IT WORKS

Technically you are not supposed to line up before park opening, but guess what people do? We recommend arriving 30-45 minutes prior to park opening and your best bet is likely to line up for a morning extra magic hour.

Wristbands may be picked up at park opening.

During the 2012 and 2013 holidays, there were 40 wristbands per batch and three batches per day. This means that 120 wristbands were given out at park opening.

The earlier you are there, the earlier your batch. PLEASE NOTE that [Read more…]

News! Festive Treats Returning to Epcot’s Holidays Around the World

By Wendy 20 Comments

Every year we look forward to the return of Holidays Around the World in Epcot! Beginning November 28th and running through December 30th, this yearly celebration features special events like the Candlelight Processional, a special ending to the IllumiNations spectacular, and unique opportunities to listen to storytellers share holiday traditions from around the globe in each Pavilion.

Holidays Around the World Passport

We’re happy to share that a more recent “tradition” will be returning this year as well… Holidays Around the World will once again feature tastes of holiday cuisine from the countries represented in World Showcase! If you’d like to get even more of a start on your holiday snack planning, check out our review of several of these treats from last year’s celebration! (Please note: prices on signage in the pictures below may differ this year from last.)

The Sugar and Spice Holiday Bakery in the American Adventure Pavilion will once again be THE place to grab a gingerbread, chocolate chip, or sugar cookie while waiting in line to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus! This will also the place to grab some peppermint bark or warm up with some hot cocoa.

Sugar and Spice Holiday Bakery

Cookies at the Sugar and Spice Bakery

Epcot American Adventure Peppermint Bark

Also among the treats that will be returning this year is the beautiful Bûche de Noël au Chocolate (Chocolate Christmas Log) to Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie in France.

Chocolate Christmas Log

And Gingerbread Ice Cream will [Read more…]

Disney Food Pics of the Week: Gingerbread at Disney!

By AJ 1 Comment

Today, we have another great edition of Disney Food Pics of the Week! We love to head over to our Flickr page — Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza — where DFB readers share all of their Disney Food Photos. Wanna get in on the fun? Just head over and post your pics for a chance to have them featured in our Disney Food Pics of the Week Series!

There’s no better way to get into the holiday spirit than a tour of the extravagant Gingerbread Displays at Walt Disney World. The treats that pop up during this time of year are extra special, too! Today, let’s look at a few of the photos that you’ve taken capturing the magic of Disney World Gingerbread!

Gingerbread Mickey Cookie

Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian

Photographer: Scott Sanders

It just wouldn’t be Christmas at Walt Disney World without a trip to see the huge Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. I love this shot, which shows you the scale of the house and captures some of the beautiful lobby interior of the hotel as well! (Keep an eye on the chimney — you may just see smoke rising from the house when you’re there!)

Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Gingerbread Shingle

Photographer: Riniel Calaelen

After a day of touring all of the beautiful gingerbread displays at Walt Disney World, it’s pretty normal to start craving those spicy cookies! That’s when a shingle from Disney’s BoardWalk will come in handy for takeaway holiday noshing!

Gingerbread Shingle from Disney’s BoardWalk

Gingerbread Carousel Horse at Disney’s Beach Club

Photographer: [Read more…]

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