Cookes of Dublin

DFB Reader Questions Answered: Where Can I Get a Free Counter Service Refill in the Parks?

We’re tackling another question from the DFB Reader mailbag today! Our reader asks:

Which counter service locations in Walt Disney World have self serve kiosks offering free refills?

This is really relevant question from a budget perspective. Since the Resort Refillable Mugs can’t be used in the parks, you might want to know where you can go to get more than one drink from the soda fountain. Let’s check out a couple of spots where you can grab multiple rounds of drinks when you’re extra thirsty.

Note: You do need to purchase a drink from these locations before filling up your cup again and again! Also, our DFB team members have checked with cast members at each location to confirm that refills are, indeed, allowed during your meal at the restaurant. [Read more…]

Disney Food Post Round-Up: February 15, 2015

By Kim LaPaglia Leave a Comment

Did you indulge in chocolate for Valentine’s Day? If you were fortunate enough to be at Disney World, we know you had a special day. For those of us stuck at home (and likely in the cold weather), we had fun seeing the new cupcakes and other sweets featured in the Disney Parks and Resorts.

Lady and the Tramp Cupcake

And while we anxiously await the warmer months, join us in glimpsing the fun Ice Pop Frozen Cocktail coming to France for the 2015 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival.

For all the details on the above news and more, just click on the links below!

Disney Food News

Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom has undergone a menu change in recent months.
Is chicken back on the menu at ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort?
A new treat is coming to the Outdoor Kitchen in France for the 2015 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival: the Ice Pop Frozen Cocktail… on a stick!
Two new cupcakes at Disney World’s Hollywood Studios are celebrating beloved Disney films: the red velvet Lady and the Tramp Cupcake and the vanilla Cinderella Cupcake!
“A Cooking Safari with Mickey” Cookbook Coming Soon to Disney Parks.
Did you see the Valentine’s treats featured at Disney World?

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, menu updates (Doh Bar gone from Cookes of Dublin!), Mardi Gras at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen, 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!

We love to see how our readers celebrate special occasions at Disney. Reader Danielle shares an anniversary dessert enjoyed at Epcot’s Coral Reef restaurant.

Anniversary dessert at Coral Reef

This one is a special order dessert and SO worth it. Check out Reader Leilani‘s Cinderella Slipper Dessert. Delicious!

Cinderella Slipper Dessert

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

The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015

We recently launched The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book! This valuable resource is fully updated for 2015-16 Disney vacations, and is now available for purchase and download to help you make the most of your dining plans while in Disney World.

The fully updated 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 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 DFBStore.com to pick it up!!

For our Grand Launch Sale, use code: 2015 to get a $4 discount for a limited time! And at the end of this post, we have details on even more savings!

Note: If you purchased the 2014 Guide last year, scroll down for details on repeat purchase discounts.

Here’s Just Some Of What You Get With Our 2015 Guide:

Over 490 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 [Read more…]

Review: Cookes of Dublin at Disney World’s Downtown Disney

By AJ 14 Comments

We’re stopping in for a quick, midday bite to eat at Cookes of Dublin!

Learn About:Cookes of Dublin

Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

You’ll find this little fish and chips shop at Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney, adjacent to Raglan Road Irish Pub. In fact, it’s part of that complex and shares a kitchen with the Pub.

Cookes has been a consistently reliable stop for a quick, hot meal every time we’ve visited. And we think they serve some of the best Fish and Chips around. But I simply can’t resist their Irish Vintage Cheese and Bacon Dip (and you shouldn’t, either).

But on a recent trip, we decided to branch out a bit and try a few other menu options! Let’s check out what we sampled this time out.

Atmosphere

You’ll find Cookes of Dublin around the corner from Raglan Road. If you’re coming from the Downtown Disney parking lots directly in front of Raglan Road, you’ll veer right, just past the gift shop and Hole in the Wall Bar.

Cookes of Dublin — Outside

As you wait in the queue to order, be sure to take in Cookes Philosophy. This spot is more quick service than counter service; you can expect a bit of a wait while your food is cooked to order, but it won’t take long.

Philosophy

This is a really, really small space, but it’s not without charm. Trim on the floor and the counter are vintage-looking tile in classic Slytherin colors (probably coincidental), and there are plenty of brass accents as well.

Cookes Ordering Counter

Once you place your order, you can proceed to the right side of the ordering area, where you’ll pick up condiments and fill your drink cups.

Condiments

You’ll find a full array of toppers for your meal, including some familiar favorites. After all, you can’t have [Read more…]

Disney Food Throw Down: Best Fish and Chips in Walt Disney World

By Brooke 20 Comments

There are some pretty serious debates about where in Walt Disney World you’ll find the best fish and chips. Today, we thought we’d throw a little fuel on that fire by taking a closer look at some of our favorites.

Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Mention that you’re visiting Walt Disney World and you’re hankering for this traditional British fare, and it’s a sure bet that somebody’s gonna have an opinion. And chances are good that you’ll be told to make a beeline for the UK Pavilion in Epcot.

When you get there, you’ll find two different spots that offer fish and chips. We’ll take a look at Yorkshire County Fish Shop first.

Located just before you cross the bridge into France, Yorkshire is a walk-up window where they keep it simple: you can order fish and chips, a cookie, or your choice of a few beverages.

Yorkshire County Fish Shop

And thank goodness for simplicity, because even with it, the lines here can get loooooooonnng. But there’s a really good reason for that…the fish and chips are pretty great.

Fish and Chips from Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Because this spot is so busy, the fish is usually pretty fresh. The crunchy batter isn’t too greasy or heavy, and the chips really are more chip-py than french fry-like.

Cross-section of fish

And since it’s counter service, you can score delicious, filling food with no advance dining reservation. We also hear from lots of you that a stop at Yorkshire is a WDW ritual worth keeping during every visit!

BUT — seating can be hard to find on busy days. We’ve enjoyed our Yorkshire fish and chips sitting on a curb or while standing a time or two.

Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room

And that brings us to the next contender: Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room right next door.

Whether you’re just after a pint or you’re looking to enjoy a meal, this traditional British pub is an extremely popular stop. If you’d like to dine here, we strongly recommend you book an advance dining reservation.

Outside of the Rose and Crown

At Rose and Crown, you can order fish and chips off of the pub menu, or you can order them in the restaurant as well. Size and price vary depending on where you’re enjoying your fix. 😉

But having them served at a table service restaurant means that you have more choices. With a menu that includes other fish and chip shop standards, like mushy peas, you can round out the meal a bit.

Classic beer-battered fish and chips with tartar sauce.

Fish and Chips from Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room

Seating choices include comfy a/c inside, or gorgeous views of World Showcase Lagoon on the patio.

But then, there’s the relatively new kid on the block who has brought some serious fish and chips game. Yep, we’re heading to Downtown Disney for a trip to [Read more…]

“The Best Thing I Ever Ate in Disney!” Pub Grub!

By AJ 18 Comments

Editor’s Note: The English Bulldog is not currently available.

One of my favorite food pastimes when I’m in Walt Disney World is grabbing a table at one of the resort’s fantastic pubs, bars, or lounges, and sitting down with friends for a nice long talk. There’s always so much to catch up on!

But in addition to the atmosphere and some nice cocktails, I also love Disney watering holes for some truly amazing eats! We are a snacking people here at DFB, so it’s no wonder the delicious pub grub you can find on property is one of our favorite ways to enjoy time with friends.

On this edition of “The Best Thing I Ever Ate in Disney!”, let’s check out some of our favorite Pub Grub!

Once you finish reading — share YOUR favorites in the comments! I love hearing about new things I’ve gotta try!

Cheese Fondue from Territory Lounge

When it comes to snacking, there are few foods in the world that I’d rather have than cheese! And one of my favorite ways to enjoy it is in the form of things being dipped in its melty self!

That’s right — we’re talking Fondue! And some of the best I have ever tasted is on the menu at Territory Lounge in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

This rustic, cozy lounge is themed with the great outdoors of the Pacific Northwest in mind. And the menu features hearty fare with flavors of the region as well.

But this cheese fondue is my absolute favorite option here! I can never resist getting it. It arrives in its own little cast-iron pot, complete with a flame to keep the cheese nice and warm.

Our favorite Sharp Cheddar Beer Fondue at Territory Lounge

Our Favorite Cheese Fondue at Territory Lounge

The fondue is served with a variety of Fruits and Breads to dip, and every single thing we dipped in it was amazing!

Pretzel Bread and Sharp Cheddar Beer Fondue at Territory Lounge in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Healthy apple…protein-y cheese…SO good for you! ;-D

Apple in Sharp Cheddar Beer Fondue

It’s definitely the perfect snack for sharing with friends as you unwind with [Read more…]

Disney Food Pics of the Week: Pie!

By Brooke 3 Comments

Happy Day After National Pie Day

, Everyone!!

Seriously, even though we celebrated yesterday, this is SUCH a cool holiday, we think it deserves to be extended through the weekend, don’t you? Well, clearly you agree! Because today, we are showcasing your gorgeous pie pics, courtesy of our Flickr Group, Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza!

Care to join in the comfort food fun? I knew you would!

Mango Pie at Yak n Yeti Restaurant

One of our favorites — in fact, it made our Top 3 Disney Pie List! — is the Mango Pie at Yak & Yeti Restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. I could seriously go for a slice of this on my next visit!

Photographer: Roger Weeks

Mango Pie at Yak n Yeti Restaurant

Apple and Cheddar Pie from Flo’s V8 Cafe

I love all things apple + dessert, but adding cheese is a fun next step!

Flaky Pastry, Apples, and Cheddar Cheese ftw! If you think so, too, be sure to try this yummo combo the next time you’re at Flo’s V8 Cafe in Disney California Adventure.

Photographer: Jingorokitty

Apple Cheddar Pie at Flo’s V8 Cafe

Beef and Lamb Pie from Cookes of Dublin

But pie aficionados know that there’s more to this delightful food genre than [Read more…]

The Weirdest Burgers in Disney World

By AJ 24 Comments

Yesterday we featured an awesome, interesting Disney burger, and we figured today would be a good day to delve into a few more of these finds!

Over the past few years, it seems like the culinary staff throughout the resort has made it a mission to reinvent the humble hamburger.

Once upon a time, there were rows and rows of nondescript fast food hamburgers. Now, you can find all manner of interesting flavor combos.

Whether you’re planning a vacation as you read, or you’re just looking for some serious burger inspiration, check out our list of some of the most unusual burgers we’ve had at Walt Disney World!

PB&J Burger

Sports fans who love Disney know that the BEST place to catch a game while you’re at the resort is the ESPN Club at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

But just as impressive as the myriad of televisions (even in the bathroom!) is the innovative menu of upscale sports bar food. One of the most interesting entrees is the PB&J Burger.

Inside the PB&J Burger at ESPN Club

Yep, that’s correct. Two of the world’s most comforting foods — peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and burgers — create a fusion of flavors like nothing you’ve ever had. And with the salty flavors of Bacon and spicy notes from sliced Jalapenos to add even more interest, there’s a lot going on here!

You’ve got to try it at least once (that’s about all I could take). And be sure to ask for extra napkins!

Battered Burger

Another burger that you’re not likely to see replicated in too many places is the Battered Burger at Cookes of Dublin in Downtown Disney.

Battered Burger and Chips from Cookes of Dublin

This small counter service spot shares a

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Best Disney World Restaurants for Fish Fry

By AJ 11 Comments

With Lent on the horizon — and with a few questions from readers recently about where to get a great fish fry in Disney World — I knew that now would be the perfect time to check out the best places to find that golden battered goodness at the Happiest Place on Earth!

Let’s check out some of the best fried fish in Disney World…

United Kingdom Pavilion in Epcot

You can’t go wrong for fish and chips in the delicacy’s home pavilion in Epcot.

Fish and Chips from Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Whether you take a load off at the Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room or grab some fried food to go from Yorkshire County Fish Shop, you’re in for a mild but authentic taste of one of England’s best exports.

While you’re there, enjoy a beer and a performance by The British Revolution or the Pub’s Hat Lady.

Cookes of Dublin and Raglan Road in Downtown Disney

If you find yourself in need of a fish fix while you’re “Downtown,” head over to the Pleasure Island District for two authentic and delicious options. The One & One at Cookes of Dublin is one of our favorites on property.

Cooked to order and served piping hot, the fish is flaky and tender.

Fish and Chips from Cooke’s of Dublin

But if you have the time for a slower meal, you may want to consider the famous beer battered fish and chips on the lunch menu at Raglan Road Irish Pub right next door.

Columbia Harbour House in Magic Kingdom

Here in Liberty Square, you can enjoy a counter service battered fish basket with broccoli, apples, or French fries at Columbia Harbour House counter service restaurant. The proportion of breading to fish is perfect, and the fish isn’t too oily.

Fried Chicken and Fish at Columbia Harbour House (photo from Kelly Amey via the DFB Flickr Group)

Citricos at Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

For a slightly more upscale take on the English classic, take a monorail ride to the Grand Floridian and pull up a chair at Citricos. There, you should order the melt-in-your-mouth pan-fried Florida black grouper, which gets [Read more…]

Review: Cookes of Dublin in Downtown Disney

By AJ 16 Comments

Located in Downtown Disney beside Raglan Road and Hole in the Wall Bar you’ll find the unassuming, but awesome!!!, Cooke’s of Dublin.

Learn About:Cookes of Dublin

Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

Styled as a traditional fish and chips shop, the menu is a veritable treasure trove of goodies. And we’re not just talking bacon, cheese, fried stuff, and candy bars…we’re talking the epitome of bacon, cheese, fried stuff, and candy bars!!

(OK, I’m selling them seriously short, they ALSO have great salads and grilled wraps, so be sure to read on and give them their due even if you’re NOT a lover of cheese, bacon, fried stuff, and candy bars.)

Atmosphere

The decor of Cookes, both inside and out, is vintage and traditional. Except for the steamy Florida humidity, you really might think you’d stumbled into Dublin.

Cookes of Dublin Mirror Sign

Inside, this is a tiny, skinny little shop with very minimal seating (that’s code for “go to Cookes at an off time so that you get a seat).

The indoor seating consists of a few highboy tables and some mixed booth and chair seating. There are a few tables outside as well. The reason for this is pretty simple: Cookes considers itself a “take away” establishment. They don’t really expect you to hang around. 😉

Seating

And if you want to know more about what Cookes is thinking, they make it plain with this philosophy hung on the wall. You know right up front that there might be a bit of a wait, but that it will most likely be worth it.

Philosophy

The ordering area is pretty typical of a take away spot. But I kind of love the [Read more…]

DFB Must-Have: Irish Vintage Cheese and Bacon Dip at Cookes of Dublin

By AJ 17 Comments

Learn About:Cookes of Dublin

Disney Springs
Disney World Restaurants

So, I’ve got a post coming up reviewing all of the absolutely out-of-this-world food I ate at Cookes of Dublin in Walt Disney World’s Downtown Disney on this recent trip; but I had to rustle up a quick suggestion for all of you headed to Orlando very soon…you MUST try this dip!

I’m creating a new series on the blog — DFB Must-Have menu items — just for this dip. It’s THAT good.

Stout, strong Irish cheese infused with big ol’ chunks of bacon…simply amazing. (Come to think of it, the Cookes Doh Bar might need to be placed in that series as well!)

Vintage Cheese and Bacon Dip at Cookes of Dublin

If you’re not familiar with Cookes, it’s a counter service location in Downtown Disney’s Pleasure Island area — located right next to Raglan Road Irish Pub. You order your food (anything from fish and chips to savory pies to a battered burger — don’t worry, we’ll cover all of it for you in a review soon!), then have a seat while it’s prepared and brought to your table.

Cookes Ordering Counter

I tried a variety of things on this visit, but the Irish Vintage Cheese and Bacon Dip simply blew me away. It’s listed on the menu with “Sides and Dips,” and costs [Read more…]

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DFB Reader Questions Answered: Where Can I Get a Free Counter Service Refill in the Parks?

Which counter service locations in Walt Disney World have self serve kiosks offering free refills?