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Frozen Fun has taken over the Backlot area of Disney California Adventure, and with it come some pretty tasty snacks. Let’s head inside of Olaf’s Snow Fest and see what Arendelle has to offer. Olaf’s Snow Fest The lighting inside of Olaf’s Snow Fest is very pink, so it made for a tough photo spot. Adorable nonetheless though! A snack area in the corner is set up so that visitors to Arendelle can recharge after playing in the snow. Although there is only one spot to order, the area is organized to look like separate food booths with different offerings. Arendelle Eats The menu is set up in the center of the snack area. Snow Fest Menu Board On my recent visit, I tried just about everything they had to offer! Arendelle Offerings The first cooler in the snack area of Olaf’s Snow Fest consists of a few prepackaged eats and bottled soda & water. Here you can grab a Crunchy Snowman Veggie Cup. The “Snowman” is filled with fresh veggies like jicama, carrots, celery, and cauliflower. It’s packaged to look like a snowman and comes with a side of ranch dressing for dipping. Crunchy Snowman Veggie Cup Not in the mood for jicama? Grab a Duke of Cheeselton Cheese Platter. I swear, that’s what it’s really called. This snack will set you back $7.99. It’s filled with cheese, crackers and some grapes. Duke of Cheesleton Cheese Platter In this same area you can find Olaf’s Just Chillin’ cupcakes. Olaf Cupcakes The cupcakes are vanilla cake with vanilla frosting and an edible chocolate Olaf face. I thought the head/body proportion was a little bizarre on these. I do love the striped cupcake wrappers though. I don’t think I’ve ever seen them used at the resort before. Just Chillin’ Next to the refrigerated case you’ll find the sign for Arendelle Warmer Uppers. Arendelle Warmer Uppers I will tell you right now that Gunvar’s White Hot Chocolate is a MUST try when you hit Olaf’s Snow Fest. The menu board calls it Warm Hugs Hot White Cocoa, but I prefer using the Gunvar moniker. The white hot chocolate comes with House Made Minty Marshmallows that will instantly beautify your tasty warm beverage. On the day I visited, the minty marshmallows were blue, but I’m told that they have been spotted in pink as well. Gunvar’s White Hot Chocolate Here are the lovely marshmallows on display. With each order of White Hot Chocolate you are given two marshmallows to put into your drink. House Made Minty Marshmallows I took a bite of one before dropping it in! Squishy, minty & delicious. Taste Test! Your white hot chocolate will instantly start to turn a beautiful shade of blue! White Hot Chocolate Transforming to Blue Hot Chocolate Looking for something cold to sip on? The Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler will satisfy your icy craving. Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler Served in a double sided souvenir cup featuring Olaf on one side and Anna & Elsa on the other, this generously portioned blue raspberry slushie is a really sweet treat! And I mean that literally, very very sweet! Yummy, but sweet. Did I mention it was sweet? Also, please note that the base on the photo below is not how thick the actual base of the cup is. It’s displayed here on a rotating stand. Summertime Blues Frozen Cooler Souvenir Sipper There are a few “Warm and Delicious” (per above menu) snacks to choose at Olaf’s Snow Fest: Rock Troll Festival Meat Balls and Kristoff’s Corn Dog Bites. They also serve the amazing Snowberry Twist that we previously reviewed from Maurice’s Treats. Warm Snacks at Olaf’s Snow Fest I did try both the Kristoff’s Corndog Bites and Rock Troll Festival Meatballs. Of the two I preferred Kristoff’s Corndog Bites. For $5.49 you get 5 corndog bites Kristoff’s Corndog Bites Signage Kristoff’s Corndog Bites are by no means comparable to the hand dipped corndogs served at Corn Dog Castle, but they are pretty great! Perfect for sharing, the not so mini corn dog bites have a crisp outside and a juicy center. Ketchup and mustard packets are available for your dipping pleasure. Kristoff’s Corn Dog Bites If you’ve ever had the meatballs at Ikea, then you’ll know exactly what the Rock Troll Festival Meatballs taste like. Rock Troll Festival Meatballs Signage I’m seriously wondering if they are purchased straight from Ikea; very much a cafeteria type dish. The description reads “Creamy sauce melted over Scandinavian meatballs served with a lingonberry drizzle.” I thought they were just ok, a little too bland. I’d choose the corndogs over them any day. Rock Troll Festival Meatballs In addition to the savory treats, there are lots of sweet treats to choose from. Olaf’s Snow Fest offers the super refreshing Olaf Frozen Lemonade Strawberry Bar. I was able to try this at the Frozen Dessert Party during my December visit to Walt Disney World. I’ve also seen them around the Disneyland Resort at the frozen treat carts. They are tart, but delicious! Olaf Lemonade Strawberry Frozen Bar I did not try the Caramel Corn or Fluffy Snowy Cotton Candy, but I did think the packaging was cute! Caramel Corn with Olaf Packaging The Fluffy Snowy Cotton Candy is white in color and I was told it is “regular” cotton candy flavor. Cotton Candy You can never go wrong with a Crisp Rice Treat. They come in two fun designs, both featuring Olaf. Olaf Crispy Rice Treat We chose the one with a close up of Olaf. I LOVE Disney’s Crispy Rice Treats, but I’m not a fan of the edible images. I usually peel them off. Olaf’s Snowflake Crisp Rice Treat Ok… Let’s talk about the “Royal Sisters” Shortbread Cookie. It was the only item I tried that I actually did not like at all. Royal Sisters Shortbread Cookie Although it is gorgeous, this cookie was really dry and had very little flavor. The cookie consisted of two pieces of shortbread sandwiched together with an edible image in the center. The snowflake cut out made the image visible and the two pieces were “glued” together with an unrecognizable fruit flavor spread. I dissected the cookie to try and get a better look at what was in the middle. I was really hoping for this cookie to be delicious, but it was very sub par. More fruit filling would have improved it a little bit! Dissected Royal Sisters Shortbread Cookie Looking for a little hands on activity? Grab one of the tables at Olaf’s Snow Fest and check out the “Do you want to build a snowman?” Cookie Kit. For $5.59 you get everything you need to build and eat your own snowman cookie. Cookie decorating supplies include frosting, chocolate chips, mini marshmallows, candy corn and pretzel sticks. Do you want to build (and eat) a snowman? Over in the merchandise area of Olaf’s Snow Fest, you can grab Olaf Caramel Apples and Olaf Marshmallow Wands. I did not have them on this trip, but I have had them in the past and both are great! Olaf Caramel Apples and Olaf Marshmallow Wands Overall, I highly recommend a visit to Olaf’s Snow Fest. If you’re a Frozen fan or have one in tow, the area is not to be missed. It’s themed perfectly, you can meet Olaf himself, snack on some tasty eats and there’s snow to play in, REAL snow! I don’t know an exact date, but I believe that Frozen Fun including Olaf’s Snow Fest will be at Disney California Adventure through mid May. I do know that the Mad T Party is returning as part of the Disneyland 60th Anniversary on May 22nd, so I am guessing the area will close down a bit before that to prepare for the new Mad T Party reveal. There’s still plenty of time to visit Olaf’s Snow Fest, and in this current So Cal heat, it’s a great place to cool off! Have you been to Olaf’s Snow Fest? Did you try any of the food offerings? What did you think? Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Dining in Disneyland: NEW! Viva Navidad Snack Cart at Disney California Adventure Dining in Disneyland: Dulce Aventura at Disney California Adventure Dining in Disneyland: New Holiday Desserts at Disney California Adventure! View the full article

Julie Ernst, a teacher at John Marshall Elementary School in Anaheim, Calif., purchased two piano keyboards seven years ago with a grant from the Disneyland Resort to start a music education program. Today, the elementary school has a complete lab of 34 keyboards and a full-time music teacher, and this year received a visit from members of the National Association of Music Merchants. Disneyland Resort CREATE (Creative Resources Enabling Arts through Education) grants have provided Orange County teachers with classroom materials that support visual and performing arts projects for more than 20 years. In the 2014-15 school year, CREATE grants funded 131 schools with 249 arts and music projects, benefiting more than 42,000 kindergarten through 12th grade students in Orange County. “Music can make a difference in the lives of our students in Anaheim,” said Ernst. “Attendance rates are up, student success is increasing in all curricular areas, staff is proud, discipline issues have dropped, and I am one happy teacher!” Disneyland Resort Funds Hundreds of Student Arts Projects in Orange County, California by Kevin Rafferty, Jr.: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

One thing is certain: Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant knows how to celebrate! Learn About: Raglan Road Irish PubDowntown Disney Disney World RestaurantsWe recently enjoyed sampling some of Raglan Road’s new menu items. And today, we’ve got some news for you about how they plan to celebrate their upcoming Tenth Anniversary! The restaurant, located in Downtown Disney Orlando (soon to be Disney Springs), will mark their Tenth Anniversary in October. And to celebrate, they’re hosting a Master Chef Contest that could land YOU in Ireland! Now through April 21st, amateur cooks are invited to submit “a video featuring an original three-course menu of appetizer, entrée and dessert worthy of the restaurant’s 10th anniversary celebration.” Raglan Road’s Master Chef Kevin Dundon will judge entries and choose five finalists on April 28. Finalists will all win an all-expenses-paid trip to Ireland! They’ll fly to the Emerald Isle on May 21 and stay at Dundon’s very own Dunbrody Country House Hotel in Southwest Ireland through May 26. While there, they’ll have one-on-one time with Chef Kevin as he coaches them to perfect their cooking technique. There will also be excursions to the local farms and fishing locations where he sources his food. Finalists will enjoy some time in Dublin as well. Dunbrody House in Spring Then, on October 20, each finalist will prepare one of their dishes (chosen by Chef Kevin) for a private dinner at Raglan Road, as they vie for the “honorary title of Raglan Road Master Chef”! Guests who enter the competition must be available for international travel from May 21-26, and must have a valid passport. For more details about this extraordinary opportunity, check out Raglan Road’s website, or visit their Facebook page. Now, I really want to hear from you! Who wants a chance to experience cooking school with Chef Kevin in Ireland? Leave a comment below and tell us if you’re planning to enter! Good Luck! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Raglan Road Irish Pub Named 2014 Best Restaurant by Orlando Magazine Interview: Celebrity Chef Kevin Dundon of Raglan Road Disney Recipe: Smokie City from Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant PLUS New Signature Dinner Announcement! View the full article

When talking about the soon-to-open Bora Bora Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, the newest Disney Vacation Club property at Walt Disney World Resort, it’s hard not to gush on and on. These 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom over-the-water accommodations offer sleeping room for eight, a private deck complete with an individual plunge pool, a full kitchen, gorgeous décor, views of the Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom Park area, in-mirror television in the master bath, a washer and dryer in each unit, gated boardwalk access and other fun features. I really could go on and on (and on). But they say a picture is worth 1,000 words, and this is certainly one time I have to agree. And, thankfully, I don’t have just one picture to share with you today, I have many. Let’s start with the boardwalk and front porch leading into a Bungalow. Notice the handcrafted wind chime. Once inside, you’ll find two bedrooms, both offering Mary Blair-inspired bed throws. The second bedroom also offers a sleek surfboard headboard and a fun window seat that’s perfect for relaxing. The master bedroom offers a door to the deck, where you’ll find these (oh so comfy) chairs. Plus, not only is the master bathroom gorgeous, it features an in-mirror television! The living room offers furnishings with a mid-century modern flair. And the full kitchen comes complete with a table seating eight. Oh yeah, and did I mention the plunge pool? You’ll be able to watch (and listen to the soundtrack thanks to the piped-in music) the Magic Kingdom Park fireworks from here. I don’t want to give everything away, but I will leave you with a few more images highlighting just some of the fun touches that will be found throughout the Bungalows when they open next week. GalleryA Look Inside the Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows view allWhat’s your favorite feature of the new Bora Bora Bungalows? A Look Inside the Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows by Amanda Adler: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As we prepare to celebrate 60 years of memories and magic during the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, we’ve been looking back at key moments in our history – times when Disneyland pushed the limits of what was possible and created new, innovative experiences for our guests. Searching our archives, we came across this amazing time lapse footage of Disneyland construction. Blink and you might miss some amazing moments! My favorite parts are the clock tower on the Main Street Train Station being lifted into place and the first guests flowing through the turnstiles. What are yours? See more about the construction of Disneyland park in George’s “Building the Dream” series: Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – Main Street Trolley TracksBuilding the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – City Hall Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – A Unique View of Town Square Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – Main Street Station Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – Floral Mickey Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park – Main Entrance Building the Dream: The Making of Disneyland Park Rare Time-Lapse Video Shows Disneyland Park Construction by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As we prepare to celebrate 60 years of memories and magic during the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, we've been looking back at key moments in our history. http://di.sn/60012SG1 Times...From:Disney ParksViews:27207524ratingsTime:01:08More inTravel & Events

Disney Cruise Line To Sail First-Ever British Isles Cruise in 2016 In this video, Cruise Director Brent gives us a sneak peek at where you can sail with Disney Cruise Line next year including our first-ever British Isles cruise, plus ports of call in more...From:Disney ParksViews:9943155ratingsTime:01:38More inTravel & Events View the full article

New ports in Scotland, England, Ireland and France join other popular destinations for the summer season CELEBRATION, Fla. (March 24, 2015) – In 2016, Disney Cruise Line is sailing its first British Isles itinerary, visiting Scotland, England, Ireland and France. Throughout the summer of 2016, Disney Cruise Line also will return to Norway, Iceland and ports of call in more than 15 European countries. In addition to the tour of Europe with limited engagements in the Baltic, Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, British Isles, Greek Isles and the Mediterranean, Disney Cruise Line will revisit favorite destinations elsewhere around the globe including Alaska, the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Bookings for the new itineraries open to the public on March 26, 2015. More details can be found on the Itineraries and Ports for 2016 page of disneycruise.com. New British Isles On June 5, 2016, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Dover, England on its very first British Isles itinerary. The 12-night cruise on the Disney Magic will sail to Invergordon, Kirkwall and Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland; Newcastle and Liverpool, England; Dublin, Ireland; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Guernsey; one of the Channel Islands. All of these, except Kirkwall, are first-time ports of call for Disney Cruise Line. On this itinerary, guests can explore the majestic beauty of Scotland, experience Highland culture, sample traditional cuisine and spirits, and discover the country’s iconic castles. Elsewhere on the itinerary, guests will experience the merry, cosmopolitan city of Dublin, the culturally rich and romantic Paris, the birthplace of the Beatles and the British Invasion in Liverpool, and the charming countryside of Guernsey. New Iceland and Norway Disney Cruise Line guests can explore the natural wonders of Iceland with two new 12-night Disney Magic sailings. Each itinerary includes two days in Reykjavik and a stop in Akureyri, Iceland; Bergen, Norway; and Kirkwall, Scotland. Departing from Dover, England and concluding in Copenhagen, Denmark, the June 17 cruise also visits Stavanger, Norway and Newcastle, England. The July 13 cruise departing from Copenhagen, Denmark and concluding in Dover, England also visits Oslo and Kristiansand, Norway and Invergordon, Scotland. On this itinerary, three days in Iceland provides time to explore the country’s rich natural wonders such as volcanoes, lava fields, glaciers and thermal springs. In Norway, guests are immersed in the splendor and charm of the country with exciting ports steeped in Viking history. New Norwegian Fjords from Dover For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Dover, England on a seven-night cruise to the majestic Norwegian fjords. Departing on May 29, the Disney Magic will visit Stavanger, Alesund, Geiranger and Bergen, Norway. In Norway, Disney Cruise Line guests will discover breathtaking natural wonders such as magnificent mountain ranges, massive glaciers and majestic fjords. The enchanting Scandinavian culture of the region comes to life through local attractions, stunning architecture, storybook villages and historic city centers. More Summer 2016 Itineraries During the summer of 2016, the Disney Magic will return to favorite destinations in northern Europe, the Greek Isles and the Mediterranean with a variety of seven-night and longer sailings. From May through August 2016, the Disney Wonder will return to Alaska, sailing from Vancouver, Canada to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. In 2016, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will sail from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean on a variety of itineraries. All of these cruises include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent. ### View the full article

New ports in Scotland, England, Ireland and France join other popular destinations for the summer seasonCELEBRATION, Fla. (March 24, 2015) – In 2016, Disney Cruise Line is sailing its first British Isles itinerary, visiting Scotland, England, Ireland and France. Throughout the summer of 2016, Disney Cruise Line also will return to Norway, Iceland and ports of call in more than 15 European countries. In addition to the tour of Europe with limited engagements in the Baltic, Norwegian Fjords, Iceland, British Isles, Greek Isles and the Mediterranean, Disney Cruise Line will revisit favorite destinations elsewhere around the globe including Alaska, the Caribbean and the Bahamas. Bookings for the new itineraries open to the public on March 26, 2015. More details can be found on the Itineraries and Ports for 2016 page of disneycruise.com. New British Isles On June 5, 2016, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Dover, England on its very first British Isles itinerary. The 12-night cruise on the Disney Magic will sail to Invergordon, Kirkwall and Greenock (Glasgow), Scotland; Newcastle and Liverpool, England; Dublin, Ireland; Le Havre (Paris), France; and Guernsey; one of the Channel Islands. All of these, except Kirkwall, are first-time ports of call for Disney Cruise Line. On this itinerary, guests can explore the majestic beauty of Scotland, experience Highland culture, sample traditional cuisine and spirits, and discover the country’s iconic castles. Elsewhere on the itinerary, guests will experience the merry, cosmopolitan city of Dublin, the culturally rich and romantic Paris, the birthplace of the Beatles and the British Invasion in Liverpool, and the charming countryside of Guernsey. New Iceland and Norway Disney Cruise Line guests can explore the natural wonders of Iceland with two new 12-night Disney Magic sailings. Each itinerary includes two days in Reykjavik and a stop in Akureyri, Iceland; Bergen, Norway; and Kirkwall, Scotland. Departing from Dover, England and concluding in Copenhagen, Denmark, the June 17 cruise also visits Stavanger, Norway and Newcastle, England. The July 13 cruise departing from Copenhagen, Denmark and concluding in Dover, England also visits Oslo and Kristiansand, Norway and Invergordon, Scotland. On this itinerary, three days in Iceland provides time to explore the country’s rich natural wonders such as volcanoes, lava fields, glaciers and thermal springs. In Norway, guests are immersed in the splendor and charm of the country with exciting ports steeped in Viking history. New Norwegian Fjords from Dover For the first time, Disney Cruise Line will sail from Dover, England on a seven-night cruise to the majestic Norwegian fjords. Departing on May 29, the Disney Magic will visit Stavanger, Alesund, Geiranger and Bergen, Norway. In Norway, Disney Cruise Line guests will discover breathtaking natural wonders such as magnificent mountain ranges, massive glaciers and majestic fjords. The enchanting Scandinavian culture of the region comes to life through local attractions, stunning architecture, storybook villages and historic city centers. More Summer 2016 Itineraries During the summer of 2016, the Disney Magic will return to favorite destinations in northern Europe, the Greek Isles and the Mediterranean with a variety of seven-night and longer sailings. From May through August 2016, the Disney Wonder will return to Alaska, sailing from Vancouver, Canada to Tracy Arm, Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. In 2016, the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy will sail from Port Canaveral to the Bahamas and Caribbean on a variety of itineraries. All of these cruises include a stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay. To learn more about Disney Cruise Line or to book a vacation, visit disneycruise.com, call Disney Cruise Line at 888-325-2500 or contact a travel agent. ### View the full article

Today, we’re grabbing lunch from a pop up seasonal spot in Epcot! And this one involves Grilled Cheese!! You know these kiosks…often you’ll find them closed (and sometimes not even there!) if you’re lucky enough to visit during less busy times of the year. Epcot! But since we’re smack dab in the middle of Spring Break, we’re seeing lots of extra food around the Parks to help feed the hungry crowds and minimize wait times at regular Counter Service and Table Service Locations. Thanks to readers Daniel Wanderman and Megan McQuillan‎ for letting me know recently that we needed to get over to Epcot’s Taste Track to check out an incredible menu of Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sandwiches. I can’t wait to show you these! AtmosphereIf you’re looking for Taste Track, hang a right as you’re facing Test Track, and head back toward Future World. If the kiosk is serving, this is where you’ll find it. Taste Track You won’t find much in the way of seating — as in tables and chairs — but there are the same highboy tables that you see scattered around World Showcase, especially during the Flower and Garden and Food and Wine Festivals. Tables Near Taste Track More Tables There are also some benches shaded by umbrellas situated a short walk away. And there are a few low planters with walls that conveniently double as both benches and tables. For a landmark to get your bearings, Cool Wash is directly behind you if you’re facing the Taste Track kiosk. Cool Wash, Across from the Taste Track Kiosk Everything on the menu sounded pretty fantastic and we were excited to sample a range of things. Let’s check out what we chose. EatsFor such a small booth, there’s a surprisingly diverse menu offered here! With three different Gourmet Grilled Cheese Selections, plus Soup and Salad options, this could be a stop for the whole family. There are also some fantastic Craft Beer Selections. Because Grilled Cheese and Beer. Taste Track Menu — Click to Enlarge I thought the Kids’ Meal option of Grilled Cheese on Goldfish Honey Wheat Bread was fun, too. I tried to snap a pic from the family behind me; alas, they must have been hungry because they snatched it too quick. When it came down to it, my friend and I decided to sample all three of the “grown up” options. We began with the Fontina and Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich. This one combines Fontina Cheese, Sliced Tomato, and Fresh Basil with a Balsamic Glaze, and it comes together on Sourdough Bread. Fontina and Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich The very first thing I did was to take the sandwich apart (it wasn’t cheese-glued together as you would expect) and remove nearly all of the basil. Don’t get me wrong; I love basil. But there was a huge sprig on my sandwich — stem and all — and it would have been knock-me-down overpowering. Still, the sammie looked a little anemic, so I didn’t expect much from this one. Fontina and Tomato Basil Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Cross Section I was wrong! It was way better than I expected. I’m sorry that I didn’t get the inside shot of it, but the flavors of melted Fontina (a DFB favorite!) against the bright Tomatoes, fragrant Basil, and rich Balsamic Glaze came together beautifully. After I divested the sandwich of $2 worth of Basil, it was delish. But even so, it was good that I started with that one, because the best was definitely yet to come. Next, my friend and I checked out the Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese. This one is prepared on Cinnamon Raisin Bread. Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich The Sandwich was certainly the most visually interesting, with the swirls of Cinnamon and the Raisins peeking out of the bread. Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Up Close I opened it up and saw that it was as advertised — it was all there. Apple Butter on both sides, White Cheddar, and Sliced Apples. I was a little dubious about the raw Apple, but it turned out I didn’t need to be. The crunchy texture against the other rich components was amazing. More than the others, this is the one I couldn’t stop eating. Canadian Cheddar and Apple Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Inside The sandwiches here are offered with a side of either Tomato Basil Soup or a Salad. To be honest, I didn’t expect much flavor from the Salad, but I thought it was a great option, as it would lighten up an otherwise rich offering. I was right about the lightening, but not about it being a boring option. Turns out that the Salad has all of the same ingredients as the Grilled Chicken Salad offered as an entree (well, except the Chicken). In addition to chopped Romaine, there’s also shredded Cheddar, Golden Raisins, Candied Pecans, and sliced Granny Smith Apples. Side Salad with Grilled Cheese Sandwich The dressing is a very light White Balsamic Dijon Vinaigrette. And the whole thing is perfectly tossed and all kinds of interesting. I was so glad that we got two so I didn’t have to share! Another Look at the Side Salad But the third sandwich. Well. See for yourself. Doesn’t look like much, eh? But it so is. Because hiding between those golden layers of Sourdough is a combination of Gruyere, Applewood Smoked Bacon, and Caramelized Onions. FTW. Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich We opted for a side of Tomato Basil Soup with this one. Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Side of Tomato Basil Soup Again — and this was the case with all three Sammies — the bread was perfectly, perfectly grilled. I’m partial to Sourdough for grilled cheese anyway, so I couldn’t have been more pleased. Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Up Close Until I opened this one up for a look inside. And then I was. We all know that Caramelized Onions and Gruyere are a match made in heaven (hellooooo, French Onion Soup). But toss smokey Bacon in there and…well. There are just no words to tell you how spot-on perfect this was. From a trailer! In the middle of Epcot!! Gruyere and Applewood Smoked Bacon Grilled Cheese Sandwich — Inside The cup of Tomato Basil was teeny tiny, but it actually proved to be perfect for dipping bites of the sandwich. Side of Tomato Basil Soup The flavor was creamy and rich, and every bit as good as other Tomato Basil Soups I’ve sampled around the World. I haven’t had a bad one yet. Tomato Basil Soup — Up Close It’s interesting to note that you can also get just the soup if you aren’t into Grilled Cheese. Bahahahahaha! I know! Not into grilled cheese. As if. OverallSo, I’ve pretty much gushed my way through this post. Therefore, you probably won’t be surprised by my next statement. Go there. And get this. I know, I know. There’s soooooo much fantastic food to experience at Walt Disney World. But I would actually swap a counter service meal for a trip back to Taste Track. These sandwiches were so much better than I expected them to be, and they’ve inspired me to get creative with Grilled Cheese Sammies at home! If you’re looking for something a little bit different for lunch or a light dinner, I definitely recommend that you hit this spot up. And do keep in mind: it’s a busy time, so it’s completely possible that these sandwiches won’t be around all the time, or even for long. But I hope for your sake that they are! Because they’re outrageously good. Now I’d love to hear from all of you! Does a Gourmet Grilled Cheese Sammie sound like an awesome lunch or dinner option for you? Let us know by leaving a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney’s Best Grilled Cheese Dining in Disneyland: Grilled Cheese on a Stick, Sort Of… New! Test Track “Cone” Cup in Epcot View the full article

Bruce Teitelbaum and Marsha Khan loved flying helicopters. View the full article

A Circuit Court judge on Monday urged U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson and his estranged wife, Lolita, to settle their bigamy case in order to spare embarrassment for everyone involved. View the full article

A 32-year-old Seminole County deputy was arrested Friday and accused of sexually abusing a child, arrest records from the Orange County Sheriff's Office show. View the full article

A Jacksonville law firm's claim that marijuana is already legal as medicine in Florida has other supporters of medical pot crying foul. View the full article

CASSELBERRY --City commissioners Monday agreed to purchase the long-struggling Casselberry Golf Club for $2.2 million and likely have the city's parks and recreation department maintain and operate the golf course. View the full article

SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc. on Monday revealed details of an aggressive new advertising campaign that takes on critics and highlights the company's care of killer whales. View the full article

NEW CASTLE, Del. — A Frontier Airlines plane bound for Orlando left the pavement and got stuck in the mud at an airport in Delaware. View the full article

As an adult vacationing at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, I recommend watching at least one Hawaiian sunset at the spas at ‘Alohi Point. These two oceanfront, infinity-edge whirlpool spas are the most romantic and idyllic spots in the resort as they appear to cascade into the Pacific Ocean. Today, the “Unforgettable Details of Aulani” series continues on the Disney Parks Blog with a look at this peaceful paradise at Aulani. According to Aulani Cultural Advisor Kahulu De Santos, ‘alohi means “to sparkle and shimmer.” As the sun sets each day, the surface of the whirlpool spas shimmer with gold. If you are a guest looking up at these two pools from beachside, you’ll see the walls of water sparkling and shimmering, thanks to the elegant glass tiles of sea greens and blues. As always with this series, Aulani guests are encouraged to look for a few hidden details around the resort. See if you can spot a fish embedded in the rockwork near the railing wall at ‘Alohi Point, and an octopus stretching it’s long tentacles across the outer perimeter of the upper level whirlpool spa! Where are you looking forward to watching the sun set while visiting Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa? Tell us in the comments below! Unforgettable Details of Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa: ‘Alohi Point by Tyler Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Yogi Patel was facing a lawsuit from a big corporation over the name of his Kissimmee restaurant, Wawa Curry Taste of India. View the full article

Rescuers continued to search Monday for a cruise ship passenger who went overboard near the Florida Keys, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. View the full article

Okay dessert lovers, after you watch this next video, you’re going to be craving something sweet. Disney Parks Blog author Salah talks all about our new dessert experience at Remy on the Disney Fantasy, an event that features not one, not two, but six amazingly delicious desserts. It’s times like this one that I wish you could taste something just by looking at it, don’t you? If you missed our video with Salah last week about Petites Assiettes de Remy, check it out here. And next time you’re onboard, I hope you’ll dine with us at Remy. Whether it’s for Petites Assiettes, dinner, brunch or dessert, you’re sure to have a dining experience unlike any other! For more about your dining experience at Remy with Disney Cruise Line, visit the links below: Petites Assiettes de Remy on the Disney Fantasy and Disney DreamBehind the Scenes: Three Michelin Starred Chef Arnaud Lallement Discusses His Culinary Creations at Disney Cruise Line’s RemyA Look at Disney Cruise Line’s Remy Through the Eyes of Three Michelin Starred Advising Chef Arnaud LallementVIDEO: Six-Course Dessert Experience at Remy on the Disney Fantasy by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

See the new dessert experience at Remy on the Disney Fantasy, an event that features not one, not two, but six amazingly delicious desserts! http://di.sn/60012OEZ SUBSCRIBE: http://di.sn/q7h...From:Disney ParksViews:102771ratingsTime:01:11More inTravel & Events

We first brought you news that a new restaurant was coming to Adventureland a while back. And today, there’s more buzz that the rumor may be fact! Jungle Cruise Eats? Sign Me UP!!! The folks over at Orlando Weekly and WDW News Today have been reporting on some GREAT news for Adventureland Fans! While initial reports we were hearing firsthand indicated that a new restaurant would be a New Orleans-themed, a la Princess and the Frog…it may be that something EVEN BETTER is coming instead. Because the area just may actually be themed after the Jungle Cruise! Do You Think Any of the Specialties from the Crew Mess will Make It to the Menu?? The whole thing would take place at the old Adventureland Veranda, which served as a restaurant for years – with Kikkoman as a corporate sponsor. Here’s an awesome photo by Widen Your World that shows the old signage. Old Adventureland Veranda Sign, Courtesy of Omniluxe.net But most recently, the veranda has been used as a character Meet and Greet with Tinkerbell and her Fairy Friends. (Tink and Co. have since flitted over to the Main Street Theater, where you can catch them, along with Mickey and other characters, for aaaaaalllll of your photo op needs.) These days, you’ll frequently spy Peter Pan and Wendy here. But now, it would seem that this new opening is definitely linked to the switcheroo we told you about last week, when Aloha Isle and Sunshine Tree Terrace swapped real estate (and treats). You can find all of your favorite Dole Whip Delicacies at the new Aloha Isle location, while the new Sunshine Tree Terrace continues to offer Citrus Swirls (and it’s pretty busy there, too, if our trip through the area the other day is any indication.) But back to the restaurant. The backstory for the new spot may include a retreat for Jungle Cruise skippers, or even a secondary source of income for them! After a Day of Dodging These Guys, It Will Be Great to Kick Back and Grab Some Grub! Do you think we’ll be able to dine while viewing the backside of water? Perhaps the spot will be similar to Be Our Guest Restaurant, in that it will offer counter service lunch (or quick service, more accurately) and table service dinner. So another great question — will any of the fun drinks that we associate with the now defunct Adventurer’s Club, or Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at the Polynesian (I’m counting the days ’til it opens later this month!!!) OR Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar be on the menu? Schweitzer Falls — a non-alcoholic drink at Trader Sam’s Tiki Bar After all, Disney broke the long-standing tradition of no alcohol in Magic Kingdom with the inclusion of beer and wine on the Be Our Guest Dinner Menu. We’ll anxiously await the answer to this one. Wonder if Trader Sam Will Be a Frequent Visitor? While we look for answers to the many, many, MANY questions this news brings up, if the rumors are true we anticipate the new restaurant could open as early as late 2015. Are you as excited as I am about this HUGE rumor/news out of Magic Kingdom today?? Leave a comment and tell me if you think it’s a good idea… Source: Orlando Weekly, WDW News Today, WDW Theme Parks Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Trader’s Sam’s Grog Grotto is Coming to Walt Disney World’s Polynesian Resort! Magic Kingdom Expands Restaurant Capacity During Free Dining in Disney World News! Liberty Swirl Slush Available Now at Tortuga Tavern in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

We only have a few months to go before the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration begins. Is everyone as excited as I am? It was so tough to decide what to show you for a first look. So, I thought I would take you behind the scenes, into our Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration showroom, where you can see for yourselves some of the amazing items headed your way this May at the Disneyland Resort. There’s so much more to see, so keep watching the Disney Parks Blog for Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration merchandise updates. And join the conversation with the hashtag #Disneyland60. What items made your list for the big celebration? First Look at Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration Merchandise by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We only have a few months to go before the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration begins. Take a behind the scenes look into our Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration showroom, where you can ...From:Disney ParksViews:6764196ratingsTime:01:29More inTravel & Events