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Police in Germany have detained two men suspected of an arson attack early Sunday against a newspaper that republished the cartoons of French weekly Charlie Hebdo. View the full article

While it’s just temporary, Flame Tree Barbecue is now closed for refurbishment. Temporary Menu for Beastly and Gardens Kiosks The good news? We don’t have to wait three months to dig into our favorites from this popular Animal Kingdom restaurant at Walt Disney World. We’ve got the scoop on where to find some Flame Tree menu items during the closure! Does your family like to wander Downtown Disney at night? Starbucks is unveiling an evening menu! For all the details on the above news and more, just click on the links below! Disney Food NewsDowntown Disney West Side Starbucks in Walt Disney World has become one of the few Starbucks locations offering beer, wine, and additional food as they introduce the Starbucks Evening Menu.Find out where you can find several items from Flame Tree Barbecue’s menu while it is closed for a three-month refurbishment in early 2015.We have details about a special event featuring Walt Disney World Chefs taking place in Orlando — the Second Annual Field to Feast Dinner at Long & Scott Farms! 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! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader FindsIf 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! Let’s eat cake. These AMAZING photos were sent in by our readers. First, Tara shares a Toy Story themed cake. WOW! Toy Story Cake Kimberly shares a Mickey Ears cake that she made. Excellent job! Mickey Ears Cake Do you have a favorite find? Share your Disney food photos! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book Today for 50% Off!Want a big discount on our most popular DFB Guide in time for the new year? Or, you know, just cause you want to start planning your 2015 Disney trip TODAY? ;-D It’s yours! Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code HAPPYNEWYEAR for 50% off! We know that when it comes to your Disney vacays, planning ahead is practically essential these days. And if you can save time and money in the process — even better! And that’s why today, when you pre-order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and enter promo code HAPPYNEWYEAR, you’ll save 50% off of the already low cover price! But the really cool part? You get two books for the price of one! We’ll deliver the 2014 Guide to you immediately, and email you the 2015 Guide as soon as it is available later this month. Here are a couple of sample pages for you — just click to enlarge! DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Page Samples Pages of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2013 What’s in the DFB Guide?The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is stuffed FULL of helpful features to help make your trip go smoothly, like: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks.A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience.Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips!Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning.A comprehensive index of bars and lounges. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic.The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket!While our 2014 Guide was extensive, Disney World is always updating menus, prices, and other dining info. And we’re always finding new things to tell you about! So we’re updating this edition with brand new details and more exclusive info! With a 100% money-back guarantee, you have nothing to lose! Happy New Year!Get ready for Valentine’s Day! On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix showcases a Disney music box for Valentine’s Day. Just think — it’ll last so much longer than a box of chocolates! Walt Disney World for Grown Ups gives step-by-step instructions on how to make Advance Dining Reservations for your Disney World dining. Cake Wrecks features a Star Wars Cake gone bad. These are not the droids you’re looking for… . AllEars shares favorite Disney snacks. Yum! Disney Parks Blog announces new premium culinary offerings at Disney Cruise Line’s Remy. Yet another reason to set sail with Disney!! Main Street Gazette reviews more Disney Parks Blends of coffee by Joffrey’s. What’s your favorite? 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 Food Post Round-Up: January 4, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 27, 2013 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 22, 2012 View the full article

This is your chance to share in the excitement of a runDisney start and finish line. For the next several hours you can watch “live” as your friends, family and thousands from around the world start and finish the Walt Disney World Marathon presented by Cigna. The 26.2-mile journey starts just outside Epcot on Epcot Center Drive, and takes runners through the Magic Kingdom, on the track of the Walt Disney World Speedway, through Animal Kingdom, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and finishes in the shadow of Spaceship Earth outside Epcot. Your chance to track, watch runners cross the finish line and share in their celebration “live” begins with the video streams below. Below is a choice of two live streams. The first includes the start line, multiple cameras and social media feeds. The second, an uninterrupted stream from the finish line. You can join in the runDisney social media conversation by using #WDWMarathon. Following the race, runners and guests can come back to the Disney Parks Blog and replay both feeds. For more information on the half marathon, marathon and other runDisney event weekends, visit runDisney.com. Walt Disney World Marathon: To view the full size version of the Walt Disney World Marathon, click here. Walt Disney World Marathon Finish Line: To view the full size version of the Walt Disney World Marathon Finish Line, click here. LIVE: Watch Walt Disney World Marathon Live by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

After allegedly throwing a bottle of wine at his girlfriend Monday, George Zimmerman spent 14 hours in jail this weekend and now faces aggravated assault charges and must surrender all his firearms, officials said. View the full article

For Rafael Spear and his family, Three Kings Day — one of the most anticipated holidays in Latin America and Spain — was a day of sorrow. View the full article

Walt Disney World plans to stop dispensing prizes at its hotel video-game arcades, and Florida's ban on Internet cafes may be to blame. View the full article

Before arriving at Florida's reform school for boys, James Griffin had never been whipped by a white man. View the full article

KENNEDY SPACE CENTER – SpaceX blasted off its Falcon 9 rocket Saturday morning with a capsule of supplies and equipment for the International Space Station but failed in its attempt to bring the used rocket back down in one piece. View the full article

TAMPA — There were lots of signs something was wrong with John Jonchuck Jr. View the full article

2015 Walt Disney World 1/2 Marathon Presented by Cigna - Finish Line From:Disney ParksViews:966574ratingsTime:04:13:41More inEntertainment View the full article

2015 Walt Disney World 1/2 Marathon Presented by Cigna From:Disney ParksViews:919971ratingsTime:05:33:40More inEntertainment View the full article

NORTH NAPLES, Fla. - A North Naples man whose family was kicked off a Disney cruise last week learned upon his return home that his 4-month-old granddaughter had been given medication on the ship that could have killed her. View the full article

I’m guessing Herbie’s Drive-in isn’t really the first place that pops into your mind when considering meal possibilities at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Learn About: Herbie's Drive-InDisney's Hollywood Studios Disney World RestaurantsAnd that’s fair, because this little stand tucked in the roundabout on the Streets of America is pretty basic. It’s not known for any sort of signature snack, and the Streets of America itself isn’t a major destination for many guests outside of the holiday season’s Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights (although I’d argue that some of the best detailing in the park can be found in this charming area, made to look like streets in New York City and San Francisco). Plus, if you’re looking for more memorable treats in this section of the park, you’re likely more tempted by the goodies at the Writer’s Stop, like the Carrot Cake Cookie. No shame in that! But if you’re in the mood for something savory instead of sweet, there’s a snack at Herbie’s that deserves as a mention. Herbie’s Drive-In Herbie’s Drive-In sign Before we dive in, though, here’s a peek at the full menu. Herbie’s Drive-in menu For a very small space, it boasts a decent list of options (and this is the place at Hollywood Studios if you’re in the market for a Corn Dog).  But my Herbie’s go-to has become the Chili-Cheese Nachos with Pico de Gallo and Jalapeno. Chili-Cheese Nachos with Pico de Gallo and Jalapeño These are made per order, so if you’re not a fan of jalapenos, you can request that they be left off (in fact, the Cast Members will likely check with you first). Otherwise, toppings are… well, exactly what the super-lengthy name of this snack tells you ;): chili, plastic cheese (or, cheese sauce, if you prefer), pico de gallo, and a helping of sliced jalapeno. Grab some napkins and even a fork – they’re as messy as they look! I like this little dish for two reasons: first, because it tastes good. I absolutely love pico de gallo for its fresh flavor (thanks especially to the bit of unique sweetness from the red onion along with the diced tomato and white onion), and there’s a nice bit of kick from the chili spice along with the jalapeno. Plus pretty much anything with plastic cheese gets an extra point . Close-up on toppings But I also like it because it’s more substantial than a typical snack, and in fact there have been a few visits to the Studios when I’ve had this as a smaller lunch and called it good. Chili-Cheese Nachos with Pico de Gallo and Jalapeño Even better, enjoying this on one of the (admittedly few) benches in this area gives you a chance to sit, relax, and take in some of the atmosphere and detail of the city streets. So, if you can’t find a bench, just pull up a curb and and relax while enjoying a bite from everybody’s favorite love bug, Herbie! Have you visited Herbie’s during a trip at Hollywood Studios? Please let us know with 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: Review: Nachos and Frozen Lemonade at Herbie’s Drive-In Cream Cheese Pretzel Spotted in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Snack Series: Jalapeno Cheese Pretzel Review and Some Pretzel Updates View the full article

2015 Walt Disney World Marathon Presented by Cigna From:Disney ParksViews:182427ratingsTime:00:00More inEntertainment View the full article

This is your chance to replay the excitement of a runDisney start and finish line. Check out replays of our live streams from earlier today as your friends, family and thousands from around the world start and finish the Walt Disney World Half Marathon presented by Cigna. The 13.1-mile journey started just outside Epcot on Epcot Center Drive, and took runners to the Magic Kingdom, through Cinderella Castle, back to Epcot, past Spaceship Earth, and finished in the Epcot parking area. Your chance to track, watch runners cross the finish line and share in their celebration “live” begins by viewing the video feeds below. Below is a choice of two live streams. The first includes the start line, multiple cameras and social media feeds. The second, an uninterrupted stream from the finish line. You can join in the runDisney social media conversation by using #WDWHalf. For more information on the half marathon, marathon and other runDisney event weekends, visit runDisney.com. Walt Disney World Half Marathon Start Line: To view the full size version of the Walt Disney World Half Marathon Start Line, click here. Walt Disney World Half Marathon Finish Line: To view the full size version of the Walt Disney World Half Marathon Finish Line, click here. Replay Our Live Stream of The Walt Disney World Half Marathon by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Former Miami Dolphins fullback Rob Konrad apparently fell off his boat off the South Florida coast but arrived safely on shore early Thursday morning after swimming at least 10 hours and nine miles through the Atlantic Ocean waters, according to the Coast Guard. View the full article

Happy 2015, Everyone! With the new year comes lots of new Disney Food News, and we couldn’t be more excited to hit the ground running as we cover all things edible in the Disney universe! But in addition to bringing you lots of news, reviews, and photos, we’re also hard at work updating our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And very soon, we’ll bring you the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition! And — this is the best part — you can get your copy for one more week at a 50% discount using code HAPPYNEWYEAR!!! We can’t tell you all of the secrets but rest assured, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition will offer plenty of new features: Reviews of Every Disney Restaurant, Bar, Lounge, and Eatery, including New SpotsNew Photos and Special FeaturesUpdated MUST-KNOW Disney Planning Details for 2015Over Three Brand New ChaptersAnd more! If you have pre-ordered the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 Edition, then you’re already enjoying our 2014 Edition, and you’ll receive notification of the new book as soon as it’s published! We’re hard at work doing updates and making sure the guide is chock full of the best information for YOU! And if you haven’t, well…what are you waiting for? Order today, receive the 2014 to get you started, and we’ll email you as soon as the 2015 Guide comes out in late January. That’s like getting two books for the price of one! Remember to use code HAPPYNEWYEAR to get 50% off your pre-order for one more week ONLY! As always, the DFB Team thanks you so much for your support of all we do here. We couldn’t make this happen without you guys! 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: DFB Deal of the Week: Pre-Order the 2015 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining and Enjoy Big Savings! DFB Weekly Deal: $6 Off the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! Need A Last-Minute Gift? Disney Food Blog Dining Guide Gift Certificates Now Available! View the full article

Recently, I had the opportunity to join the hosts of “The Kitchen,” an entertaining cooking show on the Food Network, to make one of our guest-favorite dishes served aboard all four Disney Cruise Line ships. I had great fun cooking with Sunny, Geoffrey, Jeff, Katie and Marcela, and I hope you’ll join me in watching the episode this weekend. It airs tomorrow on the Food Network at 11 a.m. EST and again on Sunday at 1 p.m. EST. Any guesses on what we made? Here’s a hint: it’s a dish you’ll definitely want to taste during brunch at Palo! Watch “The Kitchen” this weekend to learn how to make it, and then check back here next week for the recipe. Behind-the-Scenes: Disney Cruise Line on ‘The Kitchen’ by Stephen Walker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Good morning from Cars Land! You have to be here pretty early in the morning to see a sight like this – the sun rising over Ornament Valley and the businesses along Route 66. But sometimes our guests do get to see the sunrise here … especially those who have braved 24 hours here at the Disneyland Resort during our special events the past few years. So, those of you who have seen it, tell me … where is your favorite spot to watch the sunrise here at the Disneyland Resort? Good Morning from Cars Land at Disney California Adventure Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

On New Year's Eve, guests visiting Magic Kingdom Park were treated to a glimpse of the magical coach and other “Cinderella” surprises. Here's a look at what happened when they discovered...From:Disney ParksViews:12137106ratingsTime:01:15More inTravel & Events

See all the wonderful sights and sounds of the Magic Kingdom after dark as 5-year-old Daphne gets to stay up late with her Mom and Grandmother for the first time. Are you rested and ready to...From:Disney ParksViews:2976110ratingsTime:01:20More inTravel & Events

Who else is getting excited to see Disney’s dazzling, live-action feature “Cinderella” when it comes out this spring? Well, for a limited time starting January 17, you can head to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for an exclusive preview of “Cinderella” at the park’s ABC Sound Studio. This special sneak peek will be presented through March 21. The original golden coach from the film is also on its way to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where it will soon be on display outside the movie theater façade on Streets of America. There, you will have an opportunity to capture your own close-up with this stunning set piece from “Cinderella.” This one-of-a-kind, red carpet appearance of the coach will be available February 1 – April 11, 2015. On New Year’s Eve, guests visiting Magic Kingdom Park were treated to a glimpse of the magical coach and other “Cinderella” surprises. Here’s a look at what happened when they discovered how “Midnight Changes Everything!” Inspired by the classic fairy tale, “Cinderella” brings to life the timeless images from Disney’s 1950 animated masterpiece in a visually dazzling spectacle for a whole new generation. Directed by Academy Award-nominee Kenneth Branagh from a screenplay by Chris Weitz, the film stars Lily James in the title role, Richard Madden as the Prince, Oscar-winner Cate Blanchett as the infamous stepmother Lady Tremaine, and Academy Award-nominee Helena Bonham Carter as the Fairy Godmother. “Cinderella” arrives in theaters March 13. ‘Cinderella’ Sneak Peek and Golden Coach Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios by Shawn Slater: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Ah, Steakhouse 55, a bastion of yesteryear near the Park That Started It All. Going to this place is like a living time capsule. Some historical exhibits celebrate the past by letting you look at it. But at Steakhouse 55, it’s like you’re actually stepping back through the years. And that’s a good thing. But if we’ve learned anything about Disney, it’s that change is always potentially on the horizon. Recently, they decided that the menu needed an overhaul. Maybe to match to some degree the rest of Disneyland’s emphasis on healthier fare? We actually visited Steakhouse 55 prior to the recent menu refresh. But there has been so much to tell you guys over the last month, I’m just getting around to sharing my experience! So be aware that if you plan to visit, the menu will look a little different than what you see here. AtmosphereWhile Steakhouse 55 underwent a bit of a refresh in the decorating department last year, we didn’t find much different when we visited recently. You’re still greeted by this iconic, enlarged photo of Walt Disney as you enter the space. Rich wood trim and painted paneling hint at the more formal environment. Once you’ve entered, it’s very hard to remember that Goofy’s Kitchen is right next door. Photo of Walt in Entryway You’ll come to the Steakhouse 55 Lounge first. Incidentally, this is a great spot to keep on your radar. Reservations are not required and they feature a bar menu with some delicious and satisfying options. Recently they’ve also begun offering the full Steakhouse 55 Restaurant Menu in the Lounge as well. Stash this away in your bag of tricks in case you find yourself starving and looking for an upscale dining experience if the steakhouse itself is booked up. Steakhouse 55 Lounge You’ll find shades of plum and silver, with plush finishes like satin and velvet. The bar area features a flat screen television, handy for checking out the latest scores. Full Bar with Seating and Television Find a spot at the bar, or enjoy comfortable seating in softly upholstered chairs and plush couches and chaises. Steakhouse 55 Lounge Seating Small tables are perfect for Bar Bites and Cocktails, but might pose a challenge if you’re enjoying a full meal. Additional Lounge Seating Exit the lounge and you’ll find the main dining room. Low lighting and white tablecloths hint at the more formal setting here. Inside the Cool and Serene Steakhouse 55 But you’ll find the same understated decor, punctuated by those large photographs of famous faces from years gone by. Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel The feeling here is retro chic, and it’s not hard to imagine what this spot may have been like when the name over the door was still Granville’s, and the people in the pictures were sitting at the next table. EatsI’ve shared with you that Steakhouse 55 is my absolute most favorite spot for breakfast at Disneyland, and Heather has written about her delicious experience dining in the Lounge. But it had been a while since I had taken in dinner here. Unfortunately, my timing was just a little off. Immediately after we enjoyed this experience, the menu underwent a change. Here is the menu that Steakhouse 55 featured at the time of our dinner. Menu: Starters, Soups, and Salads — Click to Enlarge Menu — Main Dishes and Side Dishes — Click to Enlarge Chef Marcel St. Pierre, a Disney veteran who was most recently over the kitchens of Club 33, has taken over at Steakhouse 55. Not surprisingly, he is eager to put his stamp on things here, and to experiment with some popular trends and classic French preparations. Since the changes, I’ll try to note where the dishes that we ordered have been updated. We began our meal with fresh, warm Sourdough Bread, served with softened, Unsalted Butter. Bread and Butter My husband was dining with me. And you long-term DFB Readers know — he never passes up the chance to enjoy a Caesar Salad, and this visit was no exception! The classic version of the salad was served with Olive Tapenade atop a Parmesan Crisp. This salad has been replaced with Hearts of Romaine — served with Caesar Dressing. Yep. Basically the same. Just fancier. Caesar Salad with Olive Tapenade and Parmesan Crisp Another classic dish that we couldn’t pass up ordering was the legendary Steakhouse 55 Seven Onion Soup. It’s delicious, but even better — it’s food theater. The soup comes together from two different dishes. You are presented a soup bowl with French-Fried Onion Bits. Seven Onion Soup — French Fried Onion Bits The soup is poured over the bits of onion for lots of flavor and texture. Combining the Soup Seven Onion Soup Components The finished product is a rich, brothy soup that reminds me of French Onion Soup without the cheesy crouton. Seven Onion Soup This classic has been replaced by a more decadent-sounding Creamy Onion Soup on the current menu, which no longer comes with the “presentation” element. Having thoroughly enjoyed our starters, we turned our attention to the Steaks we ordered. Our first selection was the Bone-In Ribeye, which is dressed with the signature “Steakhouse 55 Rub”. The steak was garnished with French-Fried Onions and was cooked perfectly. To dress your steaks up a bit, you can choose from a number of toppings: Bearnaise, Peppercorn, or Chimmichurri Sauce, or Bleu Cheese or 55 Butter. We opted for the 55 Butter. The rub and butter combined to provide a savory seasoning. Sadly, the Bone-In Ribeye did not make the cut on the new menu (although other classic steaks did, thank goodness). But don’t stress if this is your favorite. Steaks change here from time to time based on what’s available in the marketplace at a good price, so the ribeye may be on the menu when you’re here. Bone-In Ribeye We also decided that we couldn’t pass up the chance to compare the Filet Mignon with others at Disney, so that was our next choice. Served with the same French Fried Onion Garnish, the Filet was cooked to a perfect medium rare temperature as well. The Filet remains on the menu, of course. Filet Mignon Because steaks do not come with sides, we welcomed the opportunity to choose a few of the a la carte offerings. We started with 55 Fries. There’s really nothing special about them, but they were well executed and fresh. Fry lovers can now enjoy a more upscale version of the side on the new menu: Duck Fat-Fried Pommes Frites, which are sprinkled with Aromatic Salt and are served with Blood Orange Sabayon for dipping. (FYI — Heather tried these recently and wasn’t wowed.) French Fries Maybe I was thinking about my favorite Disney Filet, the Wild Mushroom Filet at Epcot’s Le Cellier Steakhouse, but I knew I had to try the Seasonal Risotto. It just happened to be — you guessed it! — Mushroom! The Seasonal Risotto continues to be offered at Steakhouse 55. Let us know in the comments if you’ve tried it — and what the chef was serving up during your visit! Seasonal Risotto — Mushroom While I don’t love mushrooms on their own, I think they’re delicious in a soup or risotto with a healthy helping of cream, butter, and/or cheese. So this was a win for sure. We also couldn’t pass up the Yukon Gold Garlic Mashed Potatoes. And I’m glad we didn’t, because they were incredible. Creamy, buttery, and seasoned perfectly, they were a hit. Fortunately, this is another classic they didn’t mess with. You can still get these dreamy clouds of potato goodness when you visit these days. Yukon Gold Garlic Mashed Potatoes After such a delicious and filling dinner, we were tempted to skip dessert. But we didn’t. Dessert Menu — Click to Enlarge It was a given that we’d sample Steakhouse 55’s signature dessert, the 24 Layer chocolate Cake. Isn’t it beautiful? While I’m not always a huge chocolate cake fan, this is a thing of beauty. It’s so over the top, how could you not love it? And the Chocolate Sponge Cake combined with Milk Chocolate, Dark Chocolate, and Nutella is a chocolate lover’s dream come true. And it’s still available on the new menu. Yay! 24-Layer Chocolate Cake Our other sweet option was a little lighter — Vanilla Bean Yogurt Cheesecake. We enjoyed the tangy sweetness of the cake and the fresh, bright flavor of the Berry Compote, but honestly, the dessert isn’t one we’d order again. Vanilla Bean Yogurt Cheesecake OverallI have had delicious experiences across the board when I’ve visited Steakhouse 55. Whether I’m meeting friends for a quiet breakfast, having cocktails and snacks in the Lounge, or I’m digging into a luxurious dinner, this has always been one of my favorite spots to dine. Because it’s understated, it tends to fly under the radar a bit. But sometimes, in the midst of over the top theme park themeing, that’s not a bad thing. And if the menu were the same as it’s been in the past, I’d have no trouble recommending that you visit Steakhouse 55. It’s always been pricey, but the food quality and nod to Disney tradition was worth it for me. However, with the menu changes that have come about under Chef Marcel, I’m going to have to reserve judgement until I can visit again. Have you visited Steakhouse 55 at Disneyland Hotel? Leave us a comment and let us know your impressions of this classic dining spot. 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: Review: Disneyland Hotel’s Steakhouse 55 Dining in Disneyland: Steakhouse 55 Lounge at The Disneyland Hotel Review: Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort View the full article

This week’s “After Dark” image was taken at the Italy Pavilion at Epcot during “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.” What’s your favorite activity to do in this part of the park after the sun goes down? Watching fireworks? Devouring the pavilion’s terrific pizza? Ending the night with a yummy chocolate cannoli? GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view allDisney Parks After Dark: IllumiNations in Italy by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Those of us who visit Disneyland park a lot are often asked, “What is something you [or I] must do at the park?” I’ve given this some thought, so I wanted to share my own personal list of Disneyland park must-do’s. Now, I know this is a very personal list – it will vary for each person. So, let me know in the comments … what is your own must-do list for Disneyland park? Hold on, Disney California Adventure park fans – that’s for another time! Stop #1 – Disneyland Railroad Sometimes my visit begins with the classic grand circle tour, and sometimes that’s how it ends. Sometimes it’s in the middle, whatever – the point is that no visit is complete for me without a ride on the Disneyland Railroad. Stop #2 – Market House, Main Street, U.S.A. Hear me out … I’m a coffee fan with a theme park problem. Starbucks plus Disneyland equals a happy me. So yes, this is a recent addition to the must-do list. Stop #3 – Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor, Main Street, U.S.A. Ice cream is only behind coffee on my list of obsessions, and there’s something extra-delicious about ice cream from Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor … am I right? Stop #4 – Indiana Jones Adventure, Adventureland Yes, I chose to go to Adventureland first and yes, I walked right past Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room and the Jungle Cruise – both of which I’ve loved ever since I wore acid wash denim and permed my hair. But if a choice has to be made, I’ve got to ride Indiana Jones Adventure. Feel free to discuss. Stops #5 and #6 – Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion, New Orleans Square Obviously. Stop #7 – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Frontierland Confession: I’m a thrill ride person, so you’ll see another mountain on this list later. And the recent refurbishment of this classic attraction has only made it more awesome. Stop #8 – Big Thunder Ranch Petting Farm, Frontierland Goats! Come on, they have goats! Stop #9 – Mr. Toad’s Wild Ride, Fantasyland A classic, and it’s only at Disneyland park. Must. Do. Stop #10 – “it’s a small world,” Fantasyland The music, the history, all the Mary Blair art and design … this attraction, which just celebrated its 50th anniversary, makes me happy every time. Stop #11 – Space Mountain, Tomorrowland Another confession: this is my favorite attraction in all of the Disneyland Resort. And when it’s taken over by a ghost during Halloween Time, I love it even more. Stop #12 – Little Red Wagon, Main Street, U.S.A. You’ve got to eat, and when you’re at Disneyland park, you’ve got to eat a corn dog. No excuses. Okay, so that’s my list. I know you all have your own, so fire away! What are Your Disneyland Park Must-Do’s? by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article