Dining in Disneyland: Dinner at the Newly Renovated Club 33

After a 6 month full renovation, Club 33 has re-opened to members and their guests. The expansion includes a new entrance, a modernized and much larger kitchen, and the gorgeous new Salon Nouveau.

Similar, but much more swanky, Salon Nouveau is sort of like Disneyland’s equivalent to 1901; a members only, no reservations needed lounge serving up food, drinks and jazz. We will be posting a full review about Salon Nouveau in the very near future, but for now, let’s take a look at the new Club 33!

Club 33 Entrance

We gave you an atmosphere look previously, but we’ll cover a few more pics of the interior for you today!

Atmosphere

The entrance is now located just steps to the right of the old Club 33 entrance in New Orleans Square. The pretty new doorbell includes an etching of the new logo surrounded by a gold toned art nouveau design. It’s located on the side wall to the left of the door.

The New Doorbell

When you are buzzed in, there is a small reception area (formally the ornament shop) where you can check in for your meal and do some shopping from one of the two merchandise cases at the club. Notice the bust? She is a piece from the club that was located on the old stairwell.

Check In Area & Merchandise Case

Once you check in, you’ll take a seat in [Read more…]

News! Our First Look at 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Merchandise

By AJ 10 Comments

Hooray! We are getting our very first look at some of the merchandise that will be available at the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival!

There are some great pieces to whet our appetites — for souvenir shopping! 😉 The Festival kicks off September 19 — mark your calendar and plan a visit to Epcot — because you won’t be able to purchase items via the Disney Parks Online Store this year.

Let’s take a look!

2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Merchandise

Right out of the shoot, we are seeing two different logos on several items. The first theme is Taste Your Way Around the World. The bold, retro look of the font is fun and evokes the adventure of international travel — perfect! And don’t you love the skyline at the bottom, which highlights the icons of the World Showcase Pavilions?

2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival “Taste Your Way Around the World” Logo!

The other motif we see repeated is an homage to beer! Brews Around the World promises to be a popular choice among guests who enjoy trying all the brewskies available at the Marketplace Booths. Equally handsome, the rustic logo channels a painted wooden plaque look. It also features the landmarks of World Showcase.

Score the reusable tote in 2014, and enjoy both logos — one on each side!

2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Reusable Tote — Two Awesome Logos in One Great Bag!

Here, you can see several uses for the two different themes. We love the [Read more…]

Snack Series: The Macarons Collection from Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie in Epcot’s France

By AJ 19 Comments

We’re headed back for more macarons! Ready?

Learn About:Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie

Epcot Restaurants
Disney World Restaurants

We’re on our way to that lovely spot where you can get house-made ice cream, mimosas at 9AM, frangipane, and more — Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie in the France Pavilion of Disney World’s Epcot.

This spot underwent an enormous expansion a while back. And while there are things that we miss about the old bakery, on the whole it’s been a terrific success!

Not only do we have the amazing new L’Artisan des Glaces to tempt us, but the expanded bakery and pastry outlet means that you can enjoy a full meal.

Or you can continue to stop by for a treat between meals. 🙂

Box of Deliciousness

And that’s what we’re doing today as I finally get to sample a treat that’s part pastry and part art.

The Macarons Collection

On my recent visit to Walt Disney World, I knew I had to carve out some time to visit Les Halles for one reason: I had to try The Macarons Collection for myself.

They come packaged in this awesome little box — perfect for taking and enjoying one or two while strolling around World Showcase, and saving the rest for later. The packaging also makes for a great take home treat for you or a loved one — if you can stay out of them on the plane ride/car trip home. (Good luck with that.)

Box of Macarons from Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie

The Macarons Collection from Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie

Open the lid, and you see the assortment of beautiful colors that make up your gift box of goodies.

Under the Lid

And I’m not kidding about these sweet little treats being as much fine art as culinary art. Just look at them!

Now, here’s where we need to talk. Because some of you out there may be tempted to dismiss macarons as frivolous, tasteless, silly little things.

All the Pretty Flavors!

That would be a mistake. Yes, several of them are beautifully dyed to suggest the flavors that hide inside. But they’re still delicious.

Let’s take a closer look at the [Read more…]

Spotted! Venomade at Disneyland’s Bengal Barbecue

By AJ 6 Comments

Let’s say you’re stopping by Disneyland’s Bengal Barbecue to tame your craving for a Jungle Skewer, or maybe even a Tiger Tail.

Bengal BBQ Sign

You’ll need something to wash it down, right? Well, how about a little Venomade to take care of that for you?

I know what you’re thinking: “Whaaa …Huh?” [Read more…]

What’s New Around Disney World: August 12, 2014

By Wendy 11 Comments

It’s time to take another trip around the World, from Downtown Disney to EPCOT… and we’ll be visiting all sorts of Disney Resorts along the way! Strap in, folks, because there’s always something to find when you’re searching for What’s New at Disney World with the DFB!

DOWNTOWN DISNEY

Construction

The name of the game all over Downtown Disney these days continues to be, of course, construction for the transformation into Disney Springs. Here are a few recent shots of what will be The Boathouse restaurant, which seems to be coming along nicely.

The Boathouse construction

The Smokehouse

On the West Side, The Smokehouse has introduced a new item: Smokehouse Nachos!

The Smokehouse

The Smokehouse Menu

The Nachos can be customized with [Read more…]

News! Enjoy Disney Family of Wines and a New Menu at Alfresco Tasting Terrace in Disney California Adventure

By AJ 8 Comments

Wine lovers have something new to try at Disneyland Resort!

Wine Country Trattoria at Disney California Adventure in Disneyland

We’ve long enjoyed the Alfresco Tasting Terrace at Disney California Adventure for a place to enjoy small plates and California wines. You’ll find the secluded spot on the second floor of the Park’s Wine Country Trattoria.

Alfresco Tasting Terrace Seating

But now, we have even more reason to visit, as the rustic venue has introduced a revamped menu to complement their brand new line up of wines.

A Selection of Options from the Disney Family of Wines

Alfresco has introduced the “Disney Family of Wines”, a collection of California wines all bearing some connection with the Disney brand. While some of the wines are featured at other Disney restaurants, Alfresco is the only spot where you can sample selections from all eight of the wineries featured in the collection. They include: [Read more…]

Review: Lunch at Crystal Palace in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

By AJ 23 Comments

Welp, boys and girls — it’s time to head into Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom and take in lunch at Crystal Palace! This is a beloved character spot for many Disney fans, and a must-do character experience for lots of you.

Learn About:The Crystal Palace

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

Me? I hadn’t been to Crystal Palace in foreva…not since an ill-fated late-night visit a couple of years ago when the food was AW-FUL! Yep, it was the end-of-the-night dregs of the buffet and we were pretty much just grossed out. (Have you ever seen a buffet about 15 minutes before a restaurant is about to close? Not pretty.) We ate very little and left as soon as we could. Sad, since we do love dining with Pooh and friends.

But it was time to revisit the 100 Hundred Acre Wood — after all, we’d had lots of great meals here previously — and I made reservations with some friends for lunch.

We have tons of shots to show you, so let’s get started!

Atmosphere

You’ll find Crystal Palace to the left of Main Street USA’s end, just as you approach Cinderella Castle. The beautiful glass building, inspired by ornate conservatories of the late Victorian Age, is a slice of Disney history as well. The restaurant has been around since opening day in 1971.

Entrance to Restaurant

And here’s a tip if you’re looking for an extra-special experience during your Disney vacation: try and book Crystal Palace for an early breakfast. You’ll be one of the first guests into the Park when you do this, and visiting a nearly empty Magic Kingdom is an event to remember.

Once you step inside, you’ll see whitewashed walls that carry the bright, light decor throughout. Artwork depicting inspiration for the architecture as well as photos of lush palms cover the walls.

Artwork and Framed Photos

The soaring atrium above is gorgeous — especially on a sunny day!

Crystal Palace Atrium

After you check in, you’ll wait for your table outside on the shaded veranda. But once you step in, pause a moment to take it all in.

Dining Rooms

Tons of windows and glass domes allow for plenty of natural light in the two dining areas.

Dining Room from Another Angle

And really — look up. Because the windows are really stunning. I love the beautiful stained glass detail.

Stained Glass Windows

The decor puts you in mind of a Victorian conservatory, with its outside-but-inside feel. Lush flowers and what reminds me of patio furniture finish the area.

Afternoon Light

Crystal Palace is, of course, a character dining experience, and you’ve stumbled onto a party!

Center Atrium — Up Close

In fact, visit here, and you’ll take part in a Friendship Day Celebration with Winnie the Pooh and his friends.

It’s Friendship Day!

Just check out these gorgeous flower topiaries of the whole gang!

Pooh and His Hunny Pot

Eeyore Topiary

The sweet little figures appear to be made of dried roses, and foreshadow the characters you’ll meet while you dine.

Piglet Topiary

Bouncing Tigger Topiary

And beautiful hanging arrangements of tropical flowers complete the classic conservatory feel.

Fresh Flowers

Seating is standard and fairly comfortable. Heavy, padded chairs share the space with booths, but some tables are situated a bit too closely for our comfort.

Seating for Two

Seating along windows gives you a glimpse of guests waiting to be seated! But beyond them, you’ll also see a beautiful view of [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: August 10, 2014

By Kim LaPaglia Leave a Comment

If you’re headed to Disneyland, grab one of the new treats now available at Jolly Holiday Bakery. Love the Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaron!

Raspberry Rose Mickey Macaroon

Fans of Sanaa’s Bread Service at the Animal Kingdom Lodge should check out the Namaste Cafe Food Truck in Downtown Disney Orlando. Yum!

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

Disney Food News

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is extending the Frozen Summer Fun events through September. More dates for the Premium Package!
Check out some fun new treats at Disneyland’s Jolly Holiday bakery!
The Namaste Cafe Food Truck in Downtown Disney Orlando is serving up Naan Bread, Samosas, and new “Dipping Safari” sauce!
Walt Disney World’s Intermission Food Court at All-Star Music Resort is closed for renovations. Check out the temporary quick service option.

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, Kona Island Sushi/Coffee Bar Closure at the Polynesian Resort, Limited Edition Sketch for Disneyland Annual Passholders, and more!

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!

We’re always amazed by the creations that our readers send in. Let’s take a look at two fabulous homemade cakes. First up, fantastic treats from Facebook Friend Lori. She shared: “Here’s the dessert table from my daughters 2nd birthday party this weekend. It was Mickey Mouse Clubhouse theme, and I made everything. The whole cake is edible. I made the Mickey rice crispy treats using homemade marshmallow, homemade cake pops from the cake crumbs after carving the cake, and egg free mickey cupcakes for a little boy with egg allergies!”

Mickey Mouse Clubhouse Cake

And here is a Wall-E Masterpiece from Facebook Friend Shonnel. Wow!

Wall-E Cake

Thanks for sharing your birthday celebrations!

DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Last week, we announced the grand launch of the DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival e-Book! With over 220 pages and multiple bonus items, it’s pretty substantial!

As we continue our celebration, we have a discount option for DFB readers. You can get the new mini-guide for $3 off the regular price for a limited time — just use code MENUS at the check-out!

The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book

The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book

features all the info you need to know before you attend the Food and Wine Festival this year, from what’s NEW this year to touring strategies — and a new section with top tips on how to use MyMagic+ at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival!

And with the Epcot Food & Wine festival rapidly approaching, the time is now! Booking for festival events opened July 31st, and our exclusive daily schedule of events is the most efficient way to plan your festival strategy. (Did you purchase a pre-order of the DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival and not receive your book? Let us know at [email protected]!)

With a detailed schedule of seminars and events for every single day of the festival, it’s a quick, easy way to decide what activities and events you want to book! Don’t waste time flipping between web pages, PDFs, and websites — just find the date you need and we’ve got it all right there in front of you. Just like that!

Find Everything That’s Going On During Your Visit in our FULL Daily Schedule of Events!

As always, we’ve made this guide instantly downloadable for your convenience, and easily installed on your mobile devices. It’s a PDF guide with [Read more…]

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Review: Japan Food and Beverage Pairing

By AJ 1 Comment

We are ramping up for another fantastic Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Today, we’re reviewing a fun Special Event from the 2013 Epcot Food and Wine Festival.

Learn About:Tokyo Dining

Epcot Restaurants
Disney World Restaurants

We are heading over to Tokyo Dining in the Japan Pavilion for the Food and Beverage Pairing experience. The light meals feature beverages paired with tasting-sized portions of the restaurant’s cuisine.

I’ve enjoyed dinner at Tokyo Dining as well as lots of fun meals at Teppan Edo, so I was pretty sure I was in for a treat! While we’d done the Morocco food and beverage pairing event, we’d not yet experienced the Japan version. Here we go!

Atmosphere

When I arrived for the Food and Beverage Pairing, I checked in at the stand that serves both Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining. The cool, sleek waiting area features simple, modern decor and comfortable low lighting.

Waiting Area Serves Both Tokyo Dining and Teppan Edo

This area is also shared by the two restaurants.

Tokyo Dining and Teppan Edo Waiting Area from Another Angle

Step into the Tokyo Dining seating area, and the same modern Japanese vibe is prevalent throughout. A sushi show kitchen takes up space along one wall.

Tokyo Dining Seating and Open Sushi Kitchen

The other side of the restaurant is dominated by [Read more…]

News! Frozen Summer Fun Extended at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! New Premium Package Dates Available.

By Wendy 10 Comments

Do you want to hear something cool (pun totally intended 😉 )?

Frozen Summer Fun has been extended at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!!

This immensely popular event based on the beloved hit film, Frozen, was originally scheduled to run through September 1st. However, guests can now join in the celebration through September 28, 2014!

Frozen Fun!

That’s one more month to enjoy Frozen Funland, Anna and Elsa’s Welcome Processional, and For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration! And let’s not forget all the specialty treats!

Elsa and Anna Letting It Go!

Take-Along Olaf with Olaf Carrot Cake Cupcake

But wait, there’s more! The Frozen Premium Package has been extended, too (for select dates)! This add-on package sold out entirely for the original dates.

Now guests have the opportunity to book the Premium Package for the following dates: [Read more…]

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