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Review: Paradiso 37 at Disney Springs

It’s been a while, Paradiso 37.

In the past, I’ve enjoyed dining at this waterfront spot, (now) located in The Landing at Disney Springs. (It hasn’t moved. It’s just that everything has grown up around it.)

The waterside views from the back of the open air restaurant were previously something special. (Like, not every place had them.) But these days, with the nearly complete transformation of Disney Springs, practically every restaurant has a table with a view.

So are favorites like Crazy Corn and the Paradiso Chocolate Stack still enough to win Paradiso 37 a spot on your advance dining reservations list? Read on to find out — and to see how the restaurant’s recent reno changed it up a bit.

Atmosphere

If you’re a longtime fan of Paradiso 37 (P37 for short from here on out), you may notice that a couple of changes have taken place within the last few years. From the outside, the restaurant looks much the same, with a paint job that’s just a shade or two lighter.

Outside View

But the recent reno did add a couple of features. The restaurant now boasts two entrances — one to the upper seating area, and one to the lower area. Here’s a shot of the bar upstairs. The door is just to the right of the photo. [Read more…]

News and Review: Three Baked Mac and Cheeses at Eight Spoon Cafe

By AJ and the DFB Team 8 Comments

Let’s try some word association. We’ll give you a bunch of words, and you tell us what they make you think of. Baked. Macaroni. Cheese.

Your turn. We’ll wait.

Correct! The answer is “YUM!” Great work. Now, come along as we tell you where you can find all of the above in three awesome, cheesy incarnations. We’ll give you a hint: You’re gonna hAVATARrific day in this park. 😉

Tree of Life

That’s right! Animal Kingdom! With all of the excitement about Pandora — The World of Avatar and Rivers of Light that’s ramping up right now, it can be tough to plan your Animal Kingdom park days — especially your dining! [Read more…]

News and Review: Columbia Harbour House Shrimp Fest

By AJ 9 Comments

OK, so Columbia Harbour House doesn’t really have a “Shrimp Fest.” I just sort of created one on my recent visit by ordering ALL. THE. SHRIMPS!!!! ;-D Coming right up? Shrimp and Chicken, Fried Shrimp, and Shrimp Mac & Cheese! (Yes, I forgive you if you scroll ahead to see that last one.)

Learn About:Columbia Harbour House

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

Tucked into a perfectly themed corner of Liberty Square in the Magic Kingdom, Columbia Harbour House has a strong and devoted following.

With its menu of consistently popular choices — lots of healthier, lighter, vegetarian choices along with some hearty fish and chips — and its impeccable theming, Columbia Harbour House is a great place to cool down and fuel up when you’re touring the Magic Kingdom.

And its location is ideal. It’s a short walk from Frontierland, a stone’s throw from the Haunted Mansion, and holds court in Liberty Square (just before it morphs into Fantasyland around the corner).

Columbia Harbour House

This place is Americana architecture at its finest.

Atmosphere

The interior of Columbia Harbour House reinforces the exterior theming (at least that part of the facade that faces Liberty Square). It heavily features wood, from the furniture to the walls.

[Read more…]

Review: Dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

By AJ 20 Comments

It’s time to make another visit to Be Our Guest Restaurant! And this time, we’re dining in Beast’s Castle for dinner. Yay!

Learn About:Be Our Guest Restaurant -- Dinner

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

While I’ve had several opportunities to enjoy lunch at Be Our Guest, a dinner advance dining reservation is always a little tougher to get. Dinner here is currently the most difficult Disney World restaurant reservation to snag, requiring hopefuls to book at exactly six months out or take their chances with walk-up availability or cancellations.

That said, once you’ve been to Be Our Guest for dinner, there’s really not all that much reason to go back. See, the menu and actual dining experience at this must-do restaurant haven’t changed all that much since our very first, Eat All the Food, multi day experience when the restaurant opened in 2012.

But during my recent Epcot Food and Wine pilgrimage, I decided pretty last minute to attend a Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party one night. And it just happened to be the night Disney decided to open up Be Our Guest to dinner reservations during the party. I was able to grab a dinner reservation for 10PM, but was actually able to go early and be seated around 8:30PM. Most likely this was because not many people knew the restaurant was open, so walk-ups were fewer.

So let’s head on into the Beast’s castle for dinner at Be Our Guest!

Don’t miss out on Be Our Guest!

Atmosphere

Before we dig in, let’s take a look around. Because if you haven’t dined at Be Our Guest, you should know that this restaurant is nearly as much an attraction as it is a place to dine.

When you arrive, check in at the “podium” to the left of the walkway to the castle.

Be Our Guest Restaurant Check-In Area

There are three dining rooms at Be Our Guest (more about those later), and you can request your favorite at check-in. It’s not guaranteed, but they’ll do their best to seat you there.

When your name is called or your buzzer goes off, you’ll be directed down the main walkway into the Beast’s Castle. Be sure to take in all of the detail along the way.

Be Our Guest Entrance

Be Our Guest Gargoiyle

Gargoyle Light Post and Waterfall

Guests familiar with the film Beauty and the Beast will recognize the stunning recreation of many elements of Beast’s Castle as they make their way to the main entrance.

Don’t be late for dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant!

The feeling is eery, austere in places, and beautiful throughout. As you enter through heavy wooden doors, you’re greeted by one of Be Our Guest’s most famous elements — the gorgeous Beauty and the Beast mosaic.

Mosaic of Beauty and the Beast

At this point, you’ll check in with another cast member at another podium (FYI, they’ll be using some French pleasantries since you are now in France) and may need to wait a few minutes before you’re taken back to your table.

That’s OK, though, because there’s even more to take in! To your left, you’ll see a gallery flanked by suits of armor. Pay attention; they’re enchanted of course, so they’re whispering to one another. [Read more…]

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Review: Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing at Spice Road Table

By AJ and the DFB Team 10 Comments

It’s hard to believe that the 2016 Epcot Food and Wine Festival is right around the corner!

This year, it stretches to a full two months! The fun begins September 14 and runs 62 days — ending November 14!

While there’s so much to eat, drink, and explore, it’s always fun to take in a few of the Special Events happening throughout the festival.

Events are varied, and include premium parties like Party for the Senses as well as special lunches and dinners that emphasize food and beverage pairings.

In the past we’ve really enjoyed these experiences, ranging from Beverage Pairings in Japan to Beer and Food Pairing in Italy — and even a Tequila Pairing in Mexico!

Last year, we decided that it was time to try a few new experiences. And since we had already tried the Moroccan Wine Pairing (loved it!), the other event in the Morocco Pavilion piqued our interest.

Wondering About ALL of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Events?

The DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book is now available for pre-order! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever.

Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World!

Order your 2016 edition today and we’ll immediately send you the 2015 edition for FREE to get started on planning right away! Don’t miss a moment of the fun!

Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price!

And now, onto the review!

Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing in the Morocco Pavilion

The Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing event took place at Spice Road Table in Epcot’s Morocco Pavilion. [Read more…]

News! New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Debuts at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, Plus Garden Rocks Concert Line Up

By Brooke 11 Comments

It’s exciting to think that we’re just a little over a month away from the start of the 2015 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival!

We’ve always enjoyed this beautiful special event, but now it’s right up our alley since they added Outdoor Kitchens to World Showcase. Similar to Marketplaces Booths at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, they offer tapas-like dishes and sips of all kinds of interesting beverages. It’s super sweet to sample and stroll as you take in all of the gorgeous gardens!

We’re anxiously awaiting all of the puzzle pieces to fall into place about this year’s menus, but today, we have a couple of new details!

New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Coming to World Showcase

First and foremost, the FOOD! A brand new Outdoor Kitchen will debut in 2015. Botanas Botánico will be located between the France and Morocco Pavilions. This is the area that was occupied by the Brazil Marketplace Booth during the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival, so we’re wondering if this will be a featured gathering spot of sorts.

We’re Wondering if the Puerto Rico Marketplace Booth from the Food and Wine Festival May Do Double Duty as the Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen During Flower and Garden!

From the menu, we’re guessing that the influence will be South American in general, and Venezuelan in particular. At any rate, we can’t wait to see the set up!

Speaking of the menu, we already have a few details. Dishes here will include [Read more…]

Guest Review: ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

By Kim LaPaglia 9 Comments

Join us in welcoming back Guest Reviewer Katie Roth with a review of ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. Note that this review was written before the most recent round of ‘Ohana Menu Changes. Currently the Chicken Skewer is not being served at the restaurant. Aloha!

Learn About:‘Ohana

Polynesian Resort
Disney World Restaurants

I have been staying at the Polynesian for years, but I had never eaten at ‘Ohana until last year! I know, I know…utter blasphemy! I was psyched that my husband and I decided to take an impromptu trip to Disney World AND were able to score a dinner reservation at ‘Ohana.

I admit that it was I that brought my husband into the light of Disney, and I just love getting to share my favorite experiences and eats with him whenever we visit Walt Disney World. Knowing how much he loves grilled meat, I absolutely could not wait to eat here with him!

To help control our excitement, we went to Tambu Lounge to temper those jitters. My husband went all out and ordered the Lapu Lapu while I went with a pineapple mojito (regular mojito with fresh pineapple chunks added). We loved our drinks and were primed for dinner 😉

Lapu Lapu!

In my opinion, ‘Ohana’s location lends itself to be one of those ‘would have missed it if I didn’t know it was there’ restaurants. The location of the restaurant is on the upper terrace of the Great Ceremonial House lobby tucked away behind the Tambu Lounge. If you are in front of Kona Café then you have gone too far!

As I’ve seen in the past couple of years, the easiest way to spot ‘Ohana is by the long line of people checking in for their Advance Dining Reservation (ADR) or those hopeful souls asking about a walk-in reservation. When it comes to Disney food (particularly at ‘Ohana), never leave fate to chance.

Lately, I have been eating a lot less meat and more fish for health reasons. I informed the host at the check-in station that I would like a vegetarian/pescetarian meal to which he replied would be no problem. I have heard great things about the vegetarian offerings at ‘Ohana and couldn’t wait to try them out! Just remember, if you are going to make a special request like this, check in early and let them know.

Once you are checked in, you will be given a buzzer and told to wait by the Tambu Lounge for your “cousin” (server) to take you to your table. If this is your first time to the restaurant, they will take you on a [Read more…]

Review: Lunch at Epcot’s Coral Reef Restaurant

By Wendy 16 Comments

We’re dining “Under the Sea” today at Epcot’s Coral Reef Restaurant!

Learn About:Coral Reef Restaurant

Epcot Restaurants
Disney World Restaurants

And if you’re wondering if it was all part of my plan to insert that song in your head for the rest of the day, the answer is “Yes.”

(Insert evil laugh here. 😉 )

Coral Reef is one of only two Table Service Restaurants in Epcot’s Future World (the other being Garden Grill), and the only one open for lunch, which is the meal we’re having today. But first things first: in order to eat at Coral Reef, you’ve got to find it. Just head to “The Living Seas…” whoops! I mean, “The Seas with Nemo and Friends” Pavilion.

And once you get your fill of the birds chanting “Mine, Mine, Mine,” just hang a right…

The Seas Pavilion

… and head as far as you can towards the back. (The outdoor sign will help, too.)

Heading to Coral Reef

Coral Reef sign

So, now we’ve found it! Let’s head in…

Atmosphere

As per usual with Disney dining, there are some fun details to take in here, starting right at the entrance.

Entrance

Seahorse door handle

The dining room is well-concealed for the “big reveal” to come, but touches in the check-in area (which expands into a fairly large hallway) give several indications as to what awaits you once you dine.

Octopus at Check in

Octopus at check-in counter

What are those lights, anyway? Jellyfish?

Check-in area hallway

Glass fish behind check-in counter

But as fun as it always is to check out the little things, the truth of the matter is that everyone is here to see one, single, MAJOR “detail.” The aquarium!

Coral Reef Dining Room

Yep — the dining room has giant picture windows that look right into the massive Living Seas aquarium. It’s like you’re dining in a submarine.

Coral Reef Dining Room

And here’s an interesting thing about Coral Reef: in most restaurants, several of the tables for two are often tucked on the outer perimeters, and sometimes that can lend to a feeling of being a little removed from the atmosphere. At Coral Reef, many of the tables for two receive “front rows seats” for the big show. Our table for two was right next to this table for four.

Coral Reef Seating in front of aquarium

Our server presented Fish Guides to us, so we could identify some of the marine life swimming by.

Fish Guide

Being that close contributed just a little extra to an already unique experience. I’ll let the pictures speak for themselves…

Aquarium views

Though I gotta say, this felt [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…]

First Look! Trattoria al Forno to Replace Kouzzina by Cat Cora on Disney World’s BoardWalk

By AJ 77 Comments

We are getting our first details today about the restaurant that will replace Kouzzina at Disney’s BoardWalk when it closes later this year.

Trattoria al Forno will join other eateries at the deluxe hotel and entertainment district. The restaurant is slated to open this December.

The menu will feature Italian fare with an emphasis on regional specialities and classic preparations. Many ingredients will actually be made from scratch, in-house. We can’t wait to try the freshly handcrafted Mozzarella and the house-made Cavatelli!

The restaurant will also have wood-burning ovens, and they’ll put them to good use making — you guessed it! — Neapolitan-style Pizza! Will it be like Via Napoli meets the BoardWalk? Sounds good to me!

I’m Hoping for Pizzas Like the Quattro Fromaggi from Via Napoli!

But they aren’t stopping there. Eating through Trattoria al Forno’s menu will be like [Read more…]

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Review: Paradiso 37 at Disney Springs

Atmosphere

News and Review: Three Baked Mac and Cheeses at Eight Spoon Cafe

News and Review: Columbia Harbour House Shrimp Fest

Atmosphere

Review: Dinner at Be Our Guest Restaurant in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom

Atmosphere

Epcot Food and Wine Festival Review: Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing at Spice Road Table

Wondering About ALL of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Events?

Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price!

Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing in the Morocco Pavilion

News! New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Debuts at Epcot Flower and Garden Festival, Plus Garden Rocks Concert Line Up

New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Coming to World Showcase

Guest Review: ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Review: Lunch at Epcot’s Coral Reef Restaurant

Atmosphere

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

Atmosphere

First Look! Trattoria al Forno to Replace Kouzzina by Cat Cora on Disney World’s BoardWalk

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Atmosphere

Atmosphere

Atmosphere

Wondering About ALL of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival Events?

Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price!

Mediterranean Food and Wine Pairing in the Morocco Pavilion

New Botanas Botánico Outdoor Kitchen Coming to World Showcase

Atmosphere

Atmosphere

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER EBOOKS

POLICIES & CREDITS