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Hello out there! Welp — it’s official. The Boathouse did indeed open its doors last week! The Boathouse — Complete with Amphicars — is Officially Open for Business! The new restaurant is beautiful…and huge. We brought you a first look and our impressions of both the decor and the food recently. While The Boathouse continues to refine service and work out all the details, Advance Dining Reservations are not available during this soft opening. It’s purely walk-up for the time being. We have plenty more details about Disney’s newest restaurant below. So let’s take a look at this and the rest of the news we reported on this week. For more details on the above news and more, just click on the links below! Disney Food NewsLa Cava del Tequila fans can try a brand new version of the popular Pomegranate Margarita during their next visit.Speaking of tequila, Dockside Margaritas opened this week at Disney World’s Downtown Disney, serving mixed drinks inspired by the flavors of the Sunshine State.Olaf’s Perfect Sundae Day has debuted at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop. Looks like Summer is on its way!Some brand new Sweet Treats and Drinks are set to appear at Disneyland in honor of the Park’s 60th Anniversary.We have an update to the Epcot Starbucks “You Are Here” Mug story at Walt Disney World — a new version is now available.Disney has begun rolling out Allergy-Friendly menus at more than 100 of its restaurants at Walt Disney World and Disneyland. See an example here!We have our very first tour and review of The Boathouse, Disney’s newest restaurant, which just opened at Downtown Disney (soon to be Disney Springs).The pool at Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort has reopened after a lengthy refurbishment, and the Barefoot Pool Bar has reopened right along with it! 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 menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, 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! @CarrieWChildren just tried dinner at Sanaa for the first time, and agrees that the Butter Chicken is awesome! Guess what I’m craving now?? Butter Chicken, A Sanaa Favorite @MikeTarkin tried the S’Mores Bake Recipe at home that we featured recently. He says it’s definitely a keeper!! Making the S’mores Bake from Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue at Home Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! Deal of the Week: 2015-2016 Disney World Vacation Must-Have E-Book Sale!OK — so you have a Walt Disney World Trip on the books for this year — Woohoo!! There’s nothing more exciting than counting down the days to your next Walt Disney World Trip! But, even the most spontaneous Disney fan knows that planning ahead is the key to a stress-less vacay. And that mantra is absolutely true when it comes to dining. If you really want to dine in the hottest restaurants, you pretty much have to plan ahead. Be spontaneous, of course. But get a couple Advance Dining Reservations in place. But which ones? That’s where Disney Food Blog comes in! You already enjoy our reviews, news, and tips daily on our Blog. But did you know — that’s JUST the tip of the iceberg. Because we have lots more to share with you in our complete line of DFB Guides. If you’re ready for a fun, easy way to personalize eating and drinking your way through Disney, then check out the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book. Fully updated for your 2015-2016 adventures, the 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 subject — Eating Your Way Through Disney! So you save time and money as you enjoy planning one of the most important parts of your trip. And to thank all of you for your support of DFB, we are offering extra savings on our most popular DFB Guide right now. Just enter promo code 2015 at checkout and you’ll save $4 off of our cover price of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 e-Book! But if you’d like to enjoy even more detail, check out another great offer. DFB Everything Bundle SALE!If you’d like even more great information, pictures, and tips, then the DFB Everything Bundle is the right fit for you. And to get you ready for that next big trip, we are offering the DFB Everything Bundle for $15 off the already low price! It’s like getting an entire book for free. Just enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. The Everything Bundle includes, well, Everything! When you purchase this special bundle of DFB Guides, you’ll get it all: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 EditionThe Updated DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom SnacksThe Updated DFB Guide to Epcot SnacksThe Updated DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios SnacksA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadA Pre-Order of the 2015 DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World Holidays, and the 2014 Edition for FREE as an immediate downloadDFB Dining AdventuresThat’s every book in our collection of critically-acclaimed DFB Guides. And with the convenient e-book format, you can load your books onto as many electronic devices as you want. Have them at your fingertips, ready to plan and take with you into the Parks. Just download and off you go! The DFB Everything Bundle is already a terrific bargain at well below 40% off the individual prices of the books, but we’re excited to offer you these additional savings for a limited time. Enter promo code Everything15 at checkout to take advantage of this offer. Shop in confidence, knowing that all of our DFB Guides are 100% guaranteed. Thanks for your support of DFB! On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix has some fantastic ideas for Mother’s Day Gifts here and here. Go ahead. Get Mom that Mickey Ice Cream Phone Case she’s dying to have! DisZine has all of the details about the 2015 Frozen Summer Fun Premium Packages, which include admission to the Frozen Fireworks dessert party. Cake Wrecks shares with us several princesses — and one Yoda — that have gone horribly wrong. Nerdy Nummies shows us how to make adorable . Cute!WESH offers 10 Things You May Not Have Known About Walt Disney World Food. Disney Parks Blog shares a better-for-you recipe for Crispy Baked Chicken in honor of Healthy Kids Day. 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: April 5, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: April 12, 2015 Disney Food Post Round-Up: February 8, 2015 View the full article

A 58-year-old man fatally shot by a Lake County deputy told his mother hours before "he was going to die today," officials said. View the full article

A day of mostly peaceful rallies to protest the death of Freddie Gray turned confrontational as dark fell over Baltimore on Saturday with demonstrators smashing the windows on police cars, blocking traffic near the Inner Harbor and shouting, “Killers!” at officers dressed in riot gear. View the full article

In the early 1970s, then-U.S. District Judge George C. Young presided over the case that would change the face of Orange County schools – desegregation. View the full article

Ian Supra has endured all sorts of bad medicine while battling esophageal cancer. Insidious chemotherapy pumped into his veins. Cocktails of other treatments administered through needles, catheters and IVs. Holistic treatments. Conventional treatments. Clinical trials. View the full article

A manhunt is underway for a gunman after a 25-year-old man was killed in a shooting this morning at a house party in the Waterford Lakes area, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Office. View the full article

A development company is offering Seminole County $1.5 million for a vacant one-acre parcel along one of the busiest stretches of highway in Central Florida to build a restaurant or convenience store. View the full article

JACKSONVILLE — Former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney had a message Saturday for Jacksonville University graduates: Get a life. View the full article

YouTuber, Charisma Star, joins Anna, Elsa, Olaf & all her favorite Frozen friends for a little Frozen Fun at Disney California Adventure Park at Disneyland Resort! http://di.sn/6004fUpi Can...From:Disney ParksViews:7238122ratingsTime:00:49More inTravel & Events

This week, actress Ashley Brown, who originated the part of Mary Poppins on Broadway visited Walt Disney World Resort. During her visit, she also took time out to answer some of your questions submitted here on the blog – and of course, visited the parks to take photos with some Poppins pals. She also took the time to surprise a group of young performers from Franklin School for the Performing Arts students during their Disney Performing Arts Program Experience. Ashley answered their questions about being a professional performer and also shared a special performance of the song “Feed the Birds” from “Mary Poppins.” This Week in Disney Parks Photos: Ashley Brown’s ‘Practically Perfect’ Parks Visit by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Disney parks, resorts and cruise ships have continually been recognized by both consumers and industry experts for the exceptional, innovative and fun dining experiences. Today, we congratulate Disney Cruise Line Chef Patrick Albert, executive chef of Remy restaurant on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, recently named a Master Chef of France after being inducted into the Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, a prestigious culinary society and one of the highest honors in the country. Master Chef of France is a coveted title, dedicated “to preserving and perpetuating the tradition of great French cuisine.” At Remy, inspired by Disney’s animated hit film “Ratatouille,” Chef Patrick showcases French-inspired cuisine featuring superior seasonal ingredients from around the globe. This honor adds to a growing list of awards for the chefs onboard Disney cruise ships and at our parks and resorts around the world. Chef Arnaud Lallement, advising chef at Remy, received a third Michelin star for his restaurant in Reims, France. Chef Scott Hunnel, who collaborates with Chef Arnaud, is a 2015 James Beard Award semi-finalist and at the helm at AAA Five-Diamond Victoria & Albert’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Since launching in 1998, Disney ships have been the place where guests can connect with the stories and characters they cherish most, and dining has always been an important part of that story. From quick-service to fine dining, the chefs focus on exceeding guest expectations – and keep adding innovative new ideas that help move the culinary industry forward. All told, Disney Parks and Resorts has nearly 300 top-notch chefs, many of whom are graduates of prestigious culinary schools. A great meal awaits! Do you have a favorite onboard dining experience? Another Disney Cruise Line Chef Receives Top Culinary Honor by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Welcome back DFB Reporter James Armstrong. Today, we get to peek at his Hawaiian dinner at ‘Ama ‘Ama at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii! Let’s go back to Hawaii once again for dinner — this time at Aulani’s upscale restaurant ‘Ama ‘Ama. AtmosphereThis seaside open air restaurant is the perfect romantic venue for any special occasion. ‘Ama ‘Ama has a perfect view of Hawaii’s famous sunsets! And listening to the sound of the waves from the nearby lagoon while savoring your meal is a memorable experience. Sunset View The decor of the restaurant itself was rather minimalist to emphasize the natural beauty of the surroundings. Dining Room ‘Ama ‘Ama is named after a type of mullet fish native to Hawai’i, also known as striped mullet. The restaurant itself is meant to look like a fishing shack from the 1890’s. ‘Ama ‘Ama Details The tables are setup to emphasize panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean no matter where you sit, but I recommend requesting a table closest to the open air windows for the maximum effect. Hawaiian Sunset EatsThe menu is designed to use fresh locally grown produce, sustainably caught fresh fish, and house made desserts. The cuisine is considered Hawaiian and Asian with some European influences. Front of Dinner Menu Dinner Menu Starters After ordering drinks, crusty sourdough bread was delivered to our table. It is served with two different kinds of Hawaiian Sea Salt — Pink Hawaiian and Black Lava. The black lava salt had a smokey taste to it while the pink sea salt almost had a floral taste. Sourdough Bread with Sea Salts After the bread, we started the meal with some appetizers. First up, we chose the Big Eye Tuna Poke with Rice Chips and Avocado Mousse. This was a gourmet twist on a common Hawaiian appetizer poke. We tried poke at several places on the island including Aulani’s Buffet restaurant Makahiki, a luau, and several local places. This had to be one of the best. Tuna Poke Appetizer The Tuna was fresh and flavorful and the Avocado Mousse added a nice richness that complimented the acidity of the lime juice in the poke. The rice cracker on top added a little crunch to contrast to an otherwise buttery texture of the poke. Tuna Poke We also got the Crispy Singaporean Pepper Shrimp with Green Papaya Salad and Thai Ketchup. This dish sounded like it was going to be something interesting and exotic but ended up just being fried shrimp with papaya on top. The shrimp was average and the Thai ketchup tasted like ketchup with a little chili paste added. When I think Asian food I imagine bold flavors and this didn’t seem to deliver. Don’t get me wrong it was good, but considering the cost ($18) and what seemed like a lot of potential in the ingredients, it could have been more interesting. Pepper Shrimp For our main course, I had the Island Seafood Thai Curry served with Japanese Eggplant and Choi Sum (Chinese Flowering Cabbage) served with Jasmine Rice. This was cooked in a parchment packet that was opened and served tableside. Thai Curry The seafood featured was Ono (moonfish), Scallops, and Shrimp. For veggies, it had Japanese eggplant, tomatoes, green beans, and Choi Sum. Choi Sum is similar in taste and texture to Bok Choy, but the leaves are similar in texture to a spinach when cooked. The curry was a yellow curry that had a slight spiciness but nothing too intense. It was a “water” based curry (as opposed to a coconut milk curry), therefore it is less “creamy” with stronger flavors of turmeric, cumin powder, and other similar spices. It was a nice blend that paired well with the seafood. Thai Curry Close Up On the side, I also tried the Asparagus Gratin. This was a cheesy mixture with a crispy breadcrumb crust. It was on the mushy side like it had been overcooked or cooked earlier and reheated. It was also a little bland for my taste. It needed some salt and I am not sure what type of cheese was used. It was just a creamy blend of cheese with no distinct flavor. Asparagus Gratin Finally, for dessert I tried the Chocolate with Aloha. This was a flourless kokoleka (Hawaiian for chocolate) molten cake with Mamaki tea syrup, vanilla bean ice cream, and vanilla bean créme fraiche. It also happens to be gluten free! The actual molten cake was very rich and dense (like Makahiki’s lava cake it was flourless). I was not a big fan of Makahiki’s version, but this one actually had a strong chocolate flavor and richness. It was also nicely complemented by the creaminess of ice cream, the slight tartness of the créme fraiche, and the freshness added by the raspberries. Below the ice cream (left part) were some shavings of bittersweet chocolate. I believe the tea syrup can be seen slightly under the cake, but whatever flavor it was supposed to add was too mild to be noticed over the strong flavor of the chocolate cake and créme fraiche. Chocolate with Aloha Dessert OverallThe perfect ending to any dinner here is a quiet walk on the beach with your loved ones. Lucky for you, the beach is only about twenty-five feet away. Also make sure to check sunset times (usually published in the daily newsletter put out by Aulani) to time your meal to enjoy the ideal scenery! Is Aulani and its restaurants on your bucket list? Let us know your thoughts on these dishes from ‘Ama ‘Ama! 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: Guest Review: ‘AMA ‘AMA Beachside Restaurant at Disney’s Aulani Resort Guest Review: ‘Ama ‘Ama Lunch at Disney’s Aulani Resort Disney’s Aulani Resort Restaurant Menus View the full article

We recently shared that some exciting new magic is coming next month to Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland park. In anticipation, I’d like to go a different direction with this installment of “The Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling” and tell you the story behind the inspiration for this classic attraction. The Matterhorn Bobsleds were inspired by the 1959 live action Disney feature film, “Third Man on the Mountain,” which tells the story of a young man who strives to scale the Matterhorn (called “the Citadel” in the film). During filming in Zermatt, Switzerland, Walt Disney became fascinated with the Matterhorn, and his thoughts turned to how he could incorporate this inspiration at Disneyland. He asked his designers to think about transforming Holiday Hill (a small mound of dirt between Fantasyland and Tomorrowland) into Snow Hill, which would feature real snow. Time passed and ideas evolved, and the project grew in scope. Snow Hill became Snow Mountain, and by the time “Third Man on the Mountain” wrapped in 1958 the project had developed into Matterhorn Mountain. The real Matterhorn in Switzerland stands 14,700 feet, while the 100th-scale replica at Disneyland reaches nearly 147 feet. Can you think of other mountains or natural wonders that have inspired attractions at Disney Parks around the world? For more from “The Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling” series, visit the stories below: The Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling: Fiddler, Fifer & Practical Cafe at Disney California Adventure ParkThe Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling: Haunted Mansion at Disneyland ParkThe Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling: Splash Mountain at Disneyland ParkThe Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling: Radiator Springs Racers at Disney California Adventure ParkThe Magic of Disney Parks Storytelling: Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland Park by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The Statue of Liberty was evacuated as a precaution on Friday after a bomb threat, forcing hundreds of tourists to be herded off the island. View the full article

TALLAHASSEE — The Legislature passed a bill Friday that will require a 24-hour waiting period for abortions, a reflective period Republicans said they hope will change some women's minds before undergoing the procedure. View the full article

The jury in the fatal Florida A View the full article

TALLAHASSEE – With billions in taxpayer funds on the line, Central Florida hospitals and the working poor and uninsured remain stuck in limbo as lawmakers continue to haggle over health care coverage for the poor. View the full article

Summer’s coming! And we know that you’ll be looking to stay cool at Disney. And I can’t think of a much better way than by enjoying some terrific soft serve treats! And when it comes to soft serve at Disney, you certainly have options! From Dole Whip to Root Beer Floats made with the creamy stuff, there’s no end to the variety you’ll find. Cherry and Birthday Cake Swirled Fro Yo Soft Serve from Magic Kingdom’s Storybook Treats So we weren’t too surprised when we checked out pics that our members have posted on Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza, our Flickr group. We came away with all sorts of soft serve inspiration! If you haven’t had a chance to check it out, head over there! But before you do, let’s take a look at some of the goodies we found while we were surfin’. Soft Serve at Paradise PierPhotographer: Riniel Calaelen What makes a Soft Serve Ice Cream Cone even more delish? How about enjoying it with an awesome background, like Paradise Pier! I can almost feel that beautiful California sunshine coming through the pic, can’t you?? Chocolate Soft Serve + an Awesome Background Pineapple Soft Serve at Epcot Flower and Garden FestivalPhotographer: V No Privacy We love that Pineapple Soft Serve has become a mainstay at the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival. We expect to see the popular treat back again at the 2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival as well! This great pic features treats from Pineapple Promenade at this year’s Flower and Garden Festival. It really captures the contrast between the soft serve and the Sammy’s Beach Bar Red Head Macadamia Nut Flavored Rum! Pineapple Soft Serve from the Pineapple Promenade at Epcot’s Flower and Garden Festival Citrus Swirl at Sunshine Tree TerracePhotographer: HTH Photography This pic is entitled “Sunshine in a Cup”, and we couldn’t agree more! The Citrus Swirl at Sunshine Tree Terrace is this photographer’s favorite snack in Walt Disney World, and reminds her of all kinds of awesome childhood memories. That makes it something extra super special, IMO. Citrus Swirl from Magic Kingdom’s Sunshine Tree Terrace We thank all of you who post food photos in the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza group on Flickr! All images are copyrighted to their photographers. Do not download or re-use without photographer permission. And there’s room for more! Just head over to the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza on Flickr and show us your shots. We may feature your pics as part of an upcoming Disney Food Pics of the Week Series! If you’d like to see other Disney Food Pics of the Week that we’ve featured, just click here to check them out! What’s your favorite Disney soft serve? Tell us your favorite frosty treat in comments! 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 Pics of the Week: Dole Whips! Disney Food Pics of the Week: Hidden Mickeys! Disney Food Pics of the Week: Funnel Cakes View the full article

One of the most fun things to do with little ones at Walt Disney World Resort is take them to meet the characters that they enjoy from beloved stories and films. It is one of those magical moments that you never forget as a parent, and it creates a memory that kids can relive at home by looking at photos and autograph books from your trip. From Disney Junior characters and Pixar friends, to fairytale princesses and the Fab 5, there is no shortage of opportunities for kids to interact with their favorites. Parent tips: Utilize FastPass+ to bypass lines at select locations, and have Disney Photo Pass photographers capture shots of the entire family that can be added to you’re My Disney Experience account via your MagicBand. Here’s a roundup of some of our guests’ top meet and greet locations in all four theme parks. Magic Kingdom Park For Disney’s Hollywood Studios, click here. For Epcot, click here. For Disney’s Animal Kingdom, click here. #DisneyKids: Meeting Characters at Disney Parks by Jamie Langdon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With just one week left in the legislative session, these bills appear to be dead: Guns in schools and on college campuses, allowing adoption agencies the right to turn away gay couples, limiting which bathrooms transgenders can use. View the full article

Daredevil/high-wire artist Nik Wallenda is nervous. He’s entering unfamiliar territory: A walk atop the new Orlando Eye. View the full article

Take in the sights along the Danube River on a family bike ride in Austria on our all new Adventures by Disney river cruise! Now, experiencing four European countries with your family couldn't...From:Disney ParksViews:474ratingsTime:00:47More inTravel & Events

" 'Grey's Anatomy' is dead to me," a friend wrote Friday. "Without McDreamy I can't go on. Sad. Meredith is annoying." View the full article

A University of Florida fraternity expelled three of its members Friday after allegations that they spat at a group of disabled military veterans at a Panama City resort. View the full article

UPDATE: Please note the second “World of Color” showing is scheduled for 10:15 p.m., not 11:15 p.m. as previously listed. Don’t miss your chance to experience the magic of the all-new “World of Color – Celebrate!” during the 24-Hour Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration kickoff event, May 22-23! Additional “World of Color” dining packages have been added for the event at select restaurants at Disney California Adventure park. Ariel’s Grotto and Wine Country Trattoria will feature special 2-course, prix fixe breakfast menus from 12 a.m. to 1:45 a.m. on May 23, with reserved viewing for a special 3 a.m. showing of “World of Color.” “World of Color” lunch and dinner packages with reserved viewing for the 9 p.m. and 11:15 p.m. 10:15 p.m. shows on May 22 are available at Carthay Circle Restaurant and Golden Vine Winery and will feature regular menu items. For reservations, visit Disneyland.com/dine or call 714-781-DINE. Learn more about the all-new “World of Color – Celebrate!” coming for the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, featuring hosts Neil Patrick Harris and Mickey Mouse, in this article by my fellow author, Shawn Slater. Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog – soon I will be sharing a full listing of specialty food and beverage items for the 24-Hour Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration kickoff event! ‘World of Color’ Dining Packages Available for Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration 24-Hour Kickoff Event by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article