Review: Breakfast at Flo's V-8 Cafe in Disney California Adventure

Review: Breakfast at Flo’s V-8 Cafe in Disney California Adventure

“Eat at Flo’s and Get Gas!”

Yep — It’s time to head to Radiator Springs in Carburetor County, for a tasty breakfast along Route 66 at Flo’s V-8 Cafe!

Flo’s Sign

Since it opened a couple of years back, Flo’s has quickly garnered a great reputation for delicious table service-style breakfast with counter service convenience and prices. It even makes our list of favorite fast food joints in Disneyland!

Let’s head over for an early morning visit to Cars Land in Disney California Adventure!

Atmosphere

As you quickly see from Flo’s Sign out front, the restaurant is superbly themed. If you’re a fan of the film Cars, you are gonna love this place. With the backdrop of desert rock formations (a.k.a. Radiator Springs Racers!!), Imagineers have outdone themselves here. You truly feel as though you’ve stepped through the silver screen.

Flo’s Sign

And while it’s all stunning in the daytime, you should definitely make a point to visit at night, when the glow from pastel fluorescent lights brings every inch of this place to life!

Flo’s V-8 Cafe at night

Flo’s V-8 in the movie is, of course, the only gas filling station in Radiator Springs…which, of course, equates to food for us humans. 🙂

Outside View

Flo’s roof is famously patterned after an oil filter. Get it?

Oil Filter Roof — Up Close

Directly in front of the restaurant’s entrance, you’ll find one of the outdoor seating areas. These are the filling stations in the film, so naturally, you’ll find gas pumps and stacks of oil cans nearby.

Motor Oil and Gas Pumps on the Patio

As you go into Flo’s, you realize the seating area is enormous. It looks much larger inside than it does outside! It’s more than just Disney magic, though; one of the seating areas is themed both inside and outside as the Ornament Valley Mechanical Clinic.

Ornament Valley Mechanical Clinic

Head inside, and step further back in time. The round-room entrance is crowned by this [Read more…]

New! DFB Podcast Episode 19: The DISNEY ICE CREAM POLAR VORTEX!

By AJ 2 Comments

Happy February, Disney foodies! We’ve got some fantastic news today for all you hungry commuters, walkers, runners, snow-shovelers, gym-goers, and other assorted podcast listeners!

Just a note to let you know that our latest DFB Podcast episode is now available! The 19th episode of our DFB Podcast is now up and ready for downloading!

Hunker down! It’s time for the Disney ICE CREAM POLAR VORTEX!!!

Yep, it makes total sense that in this edition of the DFB Podcast, AJ and Brad discuss the must-have, must-try, most brain-freeze-inducing ice cream and other cold delicacies at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. Dole Whip (is it reeeeally ice cream?!?)? Beaches ‘n Cream Sundaes? Jungle Juice Slush? They’re all discussed here.

Peanut Butter Hot Fudge Sundae in a Chocolate Waffle Bowl

We also answer two listener questions, give the answer to our Episode 18 trivia question, and reveal a new trivia question!

Here’s the Podcast page for Episode 19. And don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast via RSS or on iTunes!

Take a listen and as always, let us know what you think! The podcast has its own Twitter account — tweet us at @DFBPodcast!

Review: Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites

By Wendy 32 Comments

Editor’s Note: the Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich has been replaced by a Buffalo Chicken Waffle Slider. More details on the new offering here.

You know we lurve our waffles here on DFB, and today we’ve got ANOTHER awesome new waffle item to share with you!

Now, Waffle Sandwiches aren’t new to Disney World. At Magic Kingdom’s Sleepy Hollow Refreshments, the featured waffle sandwiches are the Sweet and Spicy Chicken, the Ham, Prosciutto, and Swiss Cheese, and Nutella and Fresh Fruit. Even Epcot got in the game for a while over the holidays with a Sweet Potato Casserole Waffle and a Savory Seasonal Waffle (think Thanksgiving in a waffle!).

But today? Today we’ve got an extra EXTRA special waffle sammy. We’re heading to Trilo-Bites today for a sometimes-it’s-there-sometimes-it’s-not Waffle Sandwich!

Trilo-Bites

Trilo-Bites in Dinoland previously held the distinction of being THE spot to pick up a Turkey Leg in Animal Kingdom. The menu has shifted, however, to offer sweeter fare: a Warm Waffle with Fresh Strawberries and Cream and a Baked Apple Blossom with Ice Cream (or without) are the menu highlights.

Waffle with Strawberries and Baked Apple Blossom

You can also find Milk Shakes, Floats, and a Waffle Bowl Sundae here, too.

(By the way, for those of you wondering, “Well, where do I get my Turkey Leg in Animal Kingdom now?”, you can head over to Flame Tree Barbeque. You’ll see the Turkey Leg listed under the entrees with a side of slaw, but it can also be purchased by itself for $9.79.)

Anyway, on a recent visit to Animal Kingdom, I noticed something special was briefly back on the menu. It’s a little hard to catch since it’s only offered on “peak crowd level” days, so it was great to spot it: the Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich! Seriously? You ask? YES! I reply!

Trilo-Bites Menu with Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich

See, that’s the bonus to visiting the Parks when they’re crowded: MORE FOOD! Shazam!

There was no picture on the menu, so I was happily surprised when I was presented with this (Ooooooh! Aaaaaah!):

Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich

The pulled buffalo chicken tops the waffle, of course, but it also [Read more…]

News!: Disney World and Disneyland to Offer Braille Menus at Select Locations Starting March 1st

By AJ 1 Comment

Today we get to share with you one more way that Disney parks on both coasts are becoming more user-friendly for all of us!

Both Disney World and Disneyland Resort are preparing to offer a new service for guests with visual disabilities. Starting March 1, 2014, guests may request Braille menus at select food locations across the Parks.

Kouzzina by Cat Cora Menu Cover

As always, guests may continue to request menu reading assistance from Cast Members at any location in order to interpret the menu if a Braille version is not yet available at their chosen location, or to meet the preference of the individual.

Cast Members at Flo’s

Prior to visiting, more information for guests with visual disabilities ranging from restaurant and [Read more…]

Seven Must-Eat Disney Treats for 2014!

By AJ 23 Comments

It’s time for some seeeeeeeerious recommendations, friends!!! Do you have your planning spreadsheets ready?!?

As much as I love my classics (Dole Whip!!!), I have found some brand new delicious Disney treats to add to the list of my favorites in 2014.

If you’re looking to try some new things, or you’re just curious about what fun new finds we’re celebrating, read on — and discover My 7 Favorite New Disney Food Items for 2014!

Brioche Ice Cream Sandwiches at L’Artisan des Glaces Sorbet and Ice Cream Shop

There’s nothing like finding something completely new and original while you’re strolling through the parks. And I wasn’t disappointed on a recent trip through Epcot’s France Pavilion.

We all love L’Artisan des Glaces Sorbet and Ice Cream Shop. I mean, 16 delicious, artisan ice creams and sorbets made right here in Epcot (I’ve seen the machines)!

L’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s France Pavilion

PLUS Ice Cream Martinis and Chocolate Macaron Ice Cream Sandwiches. Are you kidding me?? Utter yumness.

But stop the presses! (Ha! That will be even funnier after you finish reading this.) Because they’ve also added Croque Glaces — Pressed Ice Cream Sandwiches.

L’Artisan des Glaces Pressed Brioche Ice Cream Sandwich with Pistachio Ice Cream and Raspberry Sauce

If you love ice cream sandwiches as much as I do, you’ve gotta try this. They take a freshly baked Brioche Bun, add a scoop of your choice of Ice Cream, and a drizzle of your choice of Raspberry or Chocolate Sauce. (Yep! It’s totally customized!)

Adding Ice Cream and Sauce to the Mix!

Then, the top of the bun is replaced, and the whole thing is [Read more…]

News! March Signature Dining Events Highlight the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road

By Brooke 2 Comments

Fun news out of Raglan Road Irish Pub today if you’re counting down the minutes to St. Patrick’s Day celebrations!

Everyone’s favorite spot to get their green on will host not one, but TWO special dining events during their upcoming Mighty Festival!

The festival, which takes place from Friday, March 7, to Monday, March 17, will feature a stellar line-up of talented musicians and dancers, all celebrating the culture and arts of the Emerald Isle. Fan favorites The Willis Clan will be back again this year, and U2 tribute band Elevation will also be on hand for the party. The award-winning We Banjo 3 also joins the lineup! Creel, Raglan Road’s stellar house band, as well as others, will also appear. Two stages — one at Raglan Road and one at WestSide — will play home to the musical acts.

Guests can also learn the art of Irish dance during “From Roots to Riverdance” workshops, led by renowned Irish dancer and choreographer Ronan McCormack of the original Riverdance cast.

Other festivities at the family-friendly event will include face painting, stilt walkers, and children’s activities.

But we are most excited about the food, of course!

In addition to Loin of Bacon and Cabbage, the authentic Irish dish of St. Patrick’s Day, both Raglan Road and Cookes of Dublin, located adjacent to the pub, will be offering lots of traditional Irish fare on the brunch, lunch, dinner, and bar menus.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day at Raglan Road!

Raglan Road will also offer two special dining events during the Mighty Festival. A special luncheon featuring a culinary demonstration will take place on Wednesday, March 12, at 1 p.m. The menu will feature dishes inspired by Chef Dundon’s cookbook and PBS series Modern Irish Food.

Raglan Road Lunch Information — Click to Enlarge

Guests can also enjoy a Signature Dinner, also hosted by Chef Dundon. The event takes place on [Read more…]

Review: Lunch at Bongos Cuban Cafe in Disney World’s Downtown Disney

By AJ 16 Comments

Sometimes I need a little Gloria Estefan in my life, so I high tail it over to Bongos Cuban Cafe!

Learn About:Bongos Cuban Cafe

Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

I’m just kidding. I rarely need any Gloria Estefan in my life, but I DO need the deliciousness that is Bongos. Seriously, you guys, I haven’t had a bad meal here…ever. It’s a hidden gem, and if you haven’t been there, start your planning engines for your next trip!

It’s Cuban food of awesomeness — tons of flavor, not-always-efficient-but-at-least-friendly service, and drinks that are BIGGER THAN YOUR HEAD. Plus souvenir glasses. And POPSYCAKES!

Atmosphere

Located in Downtown Disney West Side, most Disney guests know this eatery as “the place with the big pineapple out front.” During the evening, Bongos looks and feels like a nightclub that you’d find in Old Havana or South Beach. It’s like a party waiting to happen, this place.

Open and airy, you can imagine the celebration spilling out onto the “street” during especially festive times.

Outdoor Atmosphere

And a festive good time is what you’d expect here, as is evident from the two bars that dominate the inside.

Bar Area

Sit yourself down on actual bongos at the bar up front! Fun (and REALLY uncomfortable!).

Bongo Bar Stools and Cool, Colorful Lighting in the Front Bar Area

So if you’re tired of sitting on the Bongos, no worries; this place offers a wide array of seating areas. The upstairs seating area — both inside and outside on the balcony — offer good views of the surrounding Downtown Disney area.

It may be a teensy bit quieter upstairs at night, but during the day (for lunch) the whole place is nice and relaxed.

Upstairs Seating

Yep — two-story ceilings and [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: February 23, 2014

By Kim LaPaglia Leave a Comment

It’s finally time!!!

The new mug!

The Disney World refillable mugs have changed design after years of the old version! You can read all about it — and see more pics! — here.

Also, Spring is in the air! For starters, we dug up the menus for this year’s Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. We can’t wait to taste our way around Epcot’s Outdoor Kitchens.

On the festival front, we also learned that Disney is expanding the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival to include an extra week!

There’s even more fun food news from Disney; click on the links below!

Disney Food News

Redesigned Refillable Mugs are hitting the shelves at Disney World Resorts!
Check out the dates for the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. There’s an extra week this year!
Full Epcot Flower and Garden Festival Menus have been released; and we’ve got ’em all!
Beignets and Elephant Ears debuted at Boulangerie Patisserie Les Halles in Epcot’s France Pavilion!
The France Pavilion in Epcot is serving up SUPERSIZED adult slushes!
Tables in Wonderland has announced a March event at The Wave of American Flavors in the Contemporary Resort. And Jiko at the Animal Kingdom Lodge has announced a March Wine Dinner. Check out the details here!
Of course, don’t forget to read our weekly What’s New in Walt Disney World post!

Of course, there’s more! 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, 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!

How about some great cupcakes?!! Facebook friend Kristie sent us some Valentine love — a Red Velvet Cupcake from Pizza Planet. Take a look!

Red Velvet Cupcake

These homemade Frozen-themed cupcakes are fantastic! Jerry shared this picture of his daughter’s amazing creations, including Olaf the Snowman!!

Frozen Themed Cupcakes

As always, we can’t get enough of your Disney food finds. We can’t wait to see what our readers share with us next!

The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2014 e-Book Grand Launch

The fully updated DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2014 e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 450 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subjects — food and dining in Walt Disney World.

It’s guaranteed to help you navigate your way to delicious dining on your next trip! And if you’re ready to get yours now, head on over to DFBGuide.com to pick it up!!

For our Grand Launch Sale, use code: 2014 to get a $4 discount for a limited time! And at the end of this post, we have details on even more savings!

Here Are Just Some Of What You Get With Our 2014 Guide:

Over 450 Pages of Disney Dining and Planning information, tips, reviews, and recommendations!
An in-depth Disney Dining Restaurant Reviews section, covering all Disney restaurants, food kiosks, bars, and lounges
An updated Disney Dining Plan section and price analysis for 2014
NEW Disney food and restaurant photos
An updated Disney Snacks chapter, including our list of dozens of must-try snacks AND our Top 11 Must-Have Snacks for 2014.
An updated section on birthday parties and specialty cakes in Disney World
A comprehensive, 10-page chapter of What’s New in Disney World in 2014, including new restaurants, menu updates, and more
Details about how the My Magic+ Planning System and FastPass+ will affect your vacation planning
Our picks for the 11 Great Snacks you must try this year
Scavenger Hunts, Trivia, and Top 5 List updates
Bingo Cards
Updates on all pertinent facts such as dining hours, prices, resources, phone numbers, and restaurant closures/openings
All new restaurant additions, closures, refurbishments, and added dining experiences
And much more!

But, of course we’re offering a discount for our Grand Launch week!! Again, to celebrate the launch and to thank you for your support of the blog, we’ll be offering the Guide for $4 off its standard rate for a limited time! Order your copy now at DFBGuide.com and use code: [Read more…]

What’s New in Walt Disney World: February 22nd, 2014

By AJ 12 Comments

This week, we shared with you lots of fun news — from a new refillable mug design at the Disney World Resorts to supersized slushies in Epcot’s France to the face that we get another WHOLE WEEK to enjoy the Epcot Food and Wine Festival this year. But there’s a whole lot more going on in Disney World that we still need to tell you about!

We’re happy to welcome you on another trip around the World with us to see what’s new!

Epcot

We spied all sorts of happenings around World Showcase! Things are already changing up a bit at Spice Road Table, with a few small changes to the menu.

The Salted Cod Croquettes are still available as part of the Mogador Sampler; however, they’ve been replaced on the individual tapas menu by Mix Grill Skewers: “Beef and Chicken with Garlic and Fresh Herbs.”

Spice Road Table Menu

Italy’s Tutto Gusto is featuring a few new “Gusto Specialties”: Meatballs Parmigiana, Meatball Sliders, Ravioli di Ricotta, and Tuscan Pork Ribs.

Tutto Gusto

Tutto Gusto Menu

Over in Germany, you can now pick up some official Werther’s Drizzle to take home with you at Karamell-Küche!

Werther’s Drizzle

Now you can make your very own cookies look like this 🙂 :

Cookies at Karamel Kuche

And have you heard the news in France? [Read more…]

News! Redesigned Refillable Mugs at Disney World Resorts!

By Wendy 31 Comments

RFID is here to stay! Your favorite refillable mugs in Disney World have gotten a brand new design!

The new mug!

OK — here’s a little background. Many of you know that Disney has a refillable mug system at it’s resort hotels: buy a mug for a certain price, refill it as many times as you want while you’re staying at the hotel.

A lot of news last August revolved around the arrival of the new Rapid Fill refillable mugs across Disney World Resorts. When they hit the shelves, the mugs had the same design as the previous non-RFID version of the mugs, with only some variation in the colors of the lids and handles.

So we’re especially excited to show you the newly redesigned mugs that have started to pop up at Disney World Resorts! The Fab Five are all there… plus Clarabelle! ;-D

Pluto joins in the fun

They’re really fun — the gang is checking into a Disney hotel! And, of course, Donald is experiencing a few “hang-ups.” ;-D

Goofy and Donald on the opposite side

There are four colors available to choose from (as opposed to three in the previous line): [Read more…]

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