Disney4me

Excited about the ongoing transformation taking place at the Downtown Disney Area? I am, too! Last Friday was an especially notable day as hundreds of cast members and partners gathered to celebrate the opening of the Village Causeway, a new bridge that connects the area near The LEGO Store across the water to Rainforest Café. Not only is this my new favorite route to work, but it’s quickly becoming a popular guest spot for photos, sunset viewing, and shopping – yes, shopping! I recently shared information on two new kiosks at the Downtown Disney Area, and four more have just opened on the Village Causeway: Flour & Sugar – Perfect for guests who want to take a taste of the Sunshine State home with them, this new shop offers freshly baked cookies with Florida flavors like coconut, key lime and strawberry. (I hear the South Beach Toasted Coconut Key Lime Cookie is especially tempting!) You can buy them individually or in easy-to-transport canisters of six.Florida Bath Co. — Lately, I’m loving specialty soaps, and this locale offers products made with home grown ingredients like organic vegetable juices and essential citrus oils. If you love Basin, you’ll love this – they share the same owners.Icon Jewellery by Bico – Want your accessories to have meaning? Check out this shop where concepts like Love and Friendship, Protection, Strength and Luck are represented in pieces crafted from hand-polished fine grade pewter and enhanced with fine materials like Swarovski Crystals, New Guinea Rosewood and genuine leather. The best part … you can customize your jewelry just the way you like.Kate & Leo – No doubt about it, I’ll be buying my nieces toys and games from this charming cart. With items designed to evoke a world of curiosity, creativity and imagination, you’ll find travel games, magnetic story boards, beautiful art supplies and more, no batteries required.During your next visit to Downtown Disney Marketplace, be sure to stroll the Village Causeway – it’s my favorite recent enhancement to the neighborhood and I have a feeling it may become yours, too! The Village Causeway Opens to Guests at Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort by Darcy Clark: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Frozen Slush drinks are by no means new to Magic Kingdom. Learn About: Columbia Harbour HouseMagic Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsYou’ll find them in all sort of places in a variety of flavors. Pinocchio Village Haus is known for changing it up with slushes dedicated to characters from the Pinocchio story and film (examples include the former Jiminy Cricket Slush and the current Blue Raspberry Slush in honor of the Blue Fairy). The Lunching Pad in Tomorrowland offers an array of Icee-type slushes in four different flavors: Blue Raspberry, Cherry, Minute Maid Lemonade, and Coca-Cola. Cheshire Cafe serves arguably the most popular versions of slush drinks: Lemonade and Raspberry Lemonade. You can also find the Raspberry Lemonade at Sunshine Tree Terrace, along with a Pina Colada Slush (sans rum) to boot. And I haven’t even mentioned the Liberty Swirl Slush at Sleepy Hollow — a patriotic red-and-blue combo of Strawberry and Blue Raspberry. OR the Cherry Slush with FOMZ at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe. Cherry Slush topped with Lemon Lime Fomz Still with me in spite of the brain freeze ? Good. Because there is a place that’s managed to fly under the radar in the Slush game, and that’s Columbia Harbour House. Like a few other spots, it does indeed serve the Lemonade Slush. But they have their very own spin on this frozen treat as well: the Iced Tea Lemonade Slush. And I’d yet to try it. Columbia Harbour House Columbia Harbour House The Iced Tea Lemonade Slush has been on the menu for quite some time, but you’d almost never know it. On the back of the printed menu, the Lemonade Slush gets tops billing with a big ol’ picture on the bottom left, while the Iced Tea version just gets a small mention on the upper right corner. Columbia Harbour House menu. Mmmm broccoli. The Iced Tea Lemonade Slush comes to you not entirely blended, so you see both components — the Iced Tea Slush and the Lemonade Slush — in a “layered” effect. Iced Tea Lemonade Slush And, of course, the same thing happens with the flavors: sometimes you get a burst of tart lemonade, sometimes more of that distinct sweetened iced tea flavor (you do need to like the taste of iced tea to enjoy this drink), and sometimes a combo of both like an “Arnold Palmer,” only frozen. Iced Tea Lemonade Slush Iced Tea Lemonade Slush I had no idea I would enjoy this so much, and I’m basically kicking myself for not trying it ages ago. The way it all comes together is kind of like a slush for adults — of course, not “adult” as in an alcoholic beverage (this is, after all, the Magic Kingdom, and you won’t find alcohol anywhere other than the wine and beer served for dinner only at Be Our Guest Restaurant). Rather, the iced tea helps to temper the whole thing so you don’t end up with something uber syrupy-sweet like the Blue Raspberry Slush at Pinocchio Village Haus. Instead, the result is something a bit more pleasing to an adult palate with all the childlike fun of a slushy drink. I found it to be a terrific mix! Now, why Columbia Harbour House for this hidden gem of a slush? My only guess is that it’s a nod to the Boston Tea Party of Revolutionary War days, fitting for the Liberty Square setting of Columbia Harbour House. But maybe that’s overthinking things… regardless, I’m glad it’s there. Because I, for one, will definitely be back for it! Are you tempted by the Iced Tea Lemonade Slush? 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: Lighthouse and Anchors Aweigh Sandwiches at Magic Kingdom’s Columbia Harbour House Review: Blue Raspberry Slush at Pinocchio Village Haus in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Review: Columbia Harbour House at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

Thursday, February 19, is officially Lunar New Year, the turn of the Chinese calendar. At Disney California Adventure park, celebrate with these little tastes of Asian goodies during the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration! At Bayside Brews, you can sip a cold Tsing Tao Beer and bite into a soft, pillowy steamed bao filled with pork, served with sweet chili sauce. These steamed buns, considered grab ‘n go street food in China, are a perfect snack for strolling the park. If you prefer dessert, try a ginger milk tea with almond cookies. The pork bao and almond cookies also will be available on the Lunar New Year food cart, along with the popular Boudin Bakery sourdough bread (this one baked with a wood ram insignia – it’s the “Year of the Sheep”), so take home a loaf for your own celebration. Happy Lunar New Year! Celebrate With Good Eats at Disney California Adventure Park, February 19-22 by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Growing up in the Northeast, right about now I remember thinking winter will never end. You’re probably ready for a vacation somewhere warm and sunny with a few castles … (hint hint!) We here at Walt Disney World Resort wanted to share a little magic to help keep the winter warriors warm; help them discover their Disney Side, so to speak. You know, that part of you that comes out to play the moment you see those mouse ears. We sent Mickey and his pals to snowy, cold Long Island, New York to bring some fun to a simple, everyday event – like walking through a mall. And our hidden cameras were there to capture it. Check it out: Shadows of Favorite Disney Characters Surprise New York Shoppers by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

See what happens when Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Ana, Elsa, Olaf, Cinderella, Buzz Lightyear and other Disney Characters magically surprise unsuspecting shoppers with their Disney Side. How do...From:Disney ParksViews:4973533920ratingsTime:02:17More inTravel & Events

"I Wish" | Walt Disney World | Disney Parks When you stay at a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel you get the most out of your vacation. And now you can save up to 25% off a select Walt Disney World Resort hotel room when you book...From:Disney ParksViews:45744259ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

OK, here’s where it gets good. I love showing you guys pictures of what you can get at Disney restaurants. It’s the best way for you to judge for yourself whether or not you think a restaurant is right for you. But sometimes I just gotta share a few secrets that I’ve discovered. Things that aren’t actually ON the menu, exactly, but that are truly worth getting and trying. And today, I’m sharing another great tip from the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining — Ordering “Off the Menu” Items in Walt Disney World Restaurants. And if you like what you see here, there are a lot more where these came from! To see our whole list of must-have “off the menu” items for 2015, pick up your copy of the Guide today for $4 off using code 2015 right here! Spicy Tomato Butter at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante ItalianoRecently, we’ve been enjoying some truly incredible meals at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. This quirky eatery in Disney’s Hollywood Studios has plenty of traditional Italian fare on offer, but they can also surprise with a creative twist or two. Mama Melrose Makes an Incredible Steak and Mac and Cheese Combo! During my last couple of visits, I’ve had the opportunity to enjoy their Spicy Tomato Butter! You’ll find this amazing sauce on their Oak-Fired Mussels, but if you’re not interested in ordering said Mussels, consider requesting some of the Spicy Tomato Butter with your bread. Bread with Spicy Tomato Butter and Other Accompaniments And I’m so glad I asked the server for this “off the menu” request, because that butter is incredible! Spicy, savory, and rich, it’s delicious served with bread. In fact, on one recent visit, the server actually brought it to me slightly melted, like a dipping sauce! Heaven. Cranberry Sauce at Liberty Tree TavernHave you had the pleasure of enjoying dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom? If not, what are you waiting for?? Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom And if so, then you know that part of what makes it so awesome is that it looks a lot like America’s favorite meal — a Thanksgiving Day Feast! Roast Pork, Turkey, and Beef with Cornbread Stuffing and Chutney at Liberty Tree Tavern But there is one key ingredient missing when they bring the family-style dishes to your table; the meal doesn’t automatically include Cranberry Sauce. And I don’t know about you, but it just isn’t Turkey Day without that little gem on the table. Cranberry Sauce at Liberty Tree Tavern But never fear — they have Cranberry Sauce — and it’s pretty fantastic! You just have to request it. It seems that not all guests love it as much as you and I, so it ended up being thrown out quite a lot of the time. So order it with abandon if you like a little Cranberry Sauce on the side of your meal — they’re happy to bring it to you, included in the cost of the meal! Fried Mozzarella at Via NapoliSpeaking of Liberty Tree Tavern, they used to have a wonderful Tavern Fried Cheese Appetizer that included Deep Fried Cheese Curds. They were out of this world. Sadly, you can’t get them in the Colonial American-themed spot — but I DID find something similar at one of my favorite Epcot restaurants, Via Napoli! Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion The restaurant is a fairly recent addition to the Italy Pavilion in Epcot, and boasts some of the best pizza that I’ve ever had anywhere. I’m always happy to order a pie, or one of their stellar pasta dishes. But to begin, we always request an “off the menu” order of Fried Mozzarella. The nuggets of fresh cheese come as part of the Fritto Misto Platter, but when ordered that way, you only get a couple. I always ask for extra, and they’ve been happy to bring them every time! Mozzarella Caprese at Via Napoli If you miss the Tavern Fried Cheese, ya gotta try this! Ready for All of Our Best Tips?We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including some of our other suggestions for fun things you may want to order that aren’t on the menu — in our big, bold, 490-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 — and the guide is your ticket to planning your best Disney trip yet! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan the best vacation ever. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2015 E-book — and use code 2015 for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! Now let’s hear from all of you! What are your favorite tips and tricks for ordering things “off the menu” at Disney? Leave a comment with your favorite things! 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: Tips from the DFB Guide: Best Spots for Dining with a Toddler Tips from the DFB Guide: The Best Spots for Coffee and Tea in Walt Disney World Tips From the DFB Guide: Our Top 3 Tips for Late Night Disney World Dining View the full article

Kid-Size Vacation Offer | Walt Disney World Resort This spring, make your little one's dreams come true with a kid-size package offer! http://di.sn/6004xOre Enjoy 3 nights at Disney's All-Star Music Resort with 2-day Theme Park tickets...From:Disney ParksViews:290887ratingsTime:00:31More inTravel & Events View the full article

My family and I were at Enchanted Tales with Belle on Sunday, one of the newer attractions at Disney's Magic Kingdom, and, per the script, a cast member asked kids for their favorite books. View the full article

Ocoee police hope to prevent a sequel of Saturday night's disturbance at the West Oaks Mall theater, where hundreds of teens stormed into the movie house without a ticket — forcing their way into "Fifty Shades of Grey." View the full article

Timothy Austin, a Jacksonville high-school senior, scanned the University of Florida admissions letter and then lost interest. Who really reads every single sentence in a rejection letter? View the full article

Orlando Police Lt. Samuel Riggi retired recently after being accused of accepting nearly $10,000 in cash from a sex worker. View the full article

The federal Securities and Exchange Commission is investigating a prominent bond salesman in Central Florida and his longtime relationship with Metro Orlando's road-building agency. View the full article

Visitors who showed up to Universal Orlando on Monday received an unpleasant surprise: They were not allowed to bring bottled water or other liquids into CityWalk or its theme parks. View the full article

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to overlook any off-field concerns surrounding Jameis Winston and take the former FSU quarterback with the first overall pick of the 2015 NFL Draft, according to Mike Mayock of the NFL Network. View the full article

A University of Central Florida student was arrested last week, accused of having more than an ounce of marijuana shipped from California to his on-campus apartment, an arrest affidavit states. View the full article

We’ve talked a bit about where you can find some of your favorite Flame Tree Barbecue foods all over Animal Kingdom while that popular spot is down for refurbishment until April. Learn About: Bradley FallsAnimal Kingdom Disney World RestaurantsBut perhaps you’d like to take this time to try something out of the norm on your next Animal Kingdom visit? Bradley Falls is a little kiosk just across the way from Mr. Kamal’s (you can find both stands on the pathway going from Africa to Asia). Typically, the menu here focuses solely on vegetarian offerings, just like its neighbor across the way, and it’s a good spot to find more unique park treats such as Edamame Beans when Mr. Kamal’s has a line (and in the warmer summer months, it often features our favorite Fresh Fruit Bowl). But our friend Andy Jackson at Eating (and Drinking) Around the World just spotted a new find at this open-on-peak-days location… Bradley Falls The Thai Pork Sandwich with Asian Cucumber Slaw might be available on your next stroll between the continents! Andy kindly sent us some pictures, so let’s have a look! Bradley Falls menu Thai Pork Sandwich with Asian Cucumber Slaw We’ll happily take Andy’s assessment that it was “pretty good”! Now, remember: Bradley Falls is not open every day, but be on the lookout for the days when it is. Apparently, you never know what you might find there! Do you like the looks of the Thai Pork Sandwich? 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: Guest Review: New Quick-Service Eats at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Review: Hummus with Vegetables and Pita at Mr. Kamal’s in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Review: Pulled Buffalo Chicken Waffle Sandwich at Animal Kingdom’s Trilo-Bites View the full article

While “The 87th Oscars” doesn’t air until Sunday, February 22, excitement for this year’s award ceremony has already begun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests can visit the park anytime this week to pose for a photo with an Oscar statuette. The “My Oscar Moment” photo opp will take place inside The Magic of Disney Animation building during regular park hours through Sunday, February 22. Here, guests can walk the red carpet and pose in front of a backdrop similar to the one that winning celebrities will use. Guests can follow all of the latest Oscars news on Twitter at twitter.com/theacademy. Guests are encouraged to share their Disney’s Hollywood Studios “My Oscar Moment” using #Oscars @WaltDisneyWorld. Neil Patrick Harris hosts The Oscars LIVE Oscar Sunday, February 22 at 7e|4p on ABC. A Disney Parks First, Guests Can Pose with an Oscar Statuette by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Police arrested an Ocoee couple on child neglect charges last week after investigators found they were housing six children in a garbage-ridden, roach-infested home with no electricity, court documents show. View the full article

It’s been a while since we took a look back at some of our favorite stories from years past, so I thought I’d go to the way-back file for this “Disney Parks Blog Time Capsule.” Come with me to February 2010 to see the stories we were working on. Magic: A 24 Hour Operation Valarie Sukovaty shared this amazing behind-the-scenes look at what happens after Disneyland park closes for the night, in a video she first produced back in 2006. A Unique Anniversary Party Heather Hust Rivera took us back to 1955 with a special look at Walt and Lillian Disney’s 30th anniversary party here at Disneyland. Photo Captures a Rare Sight: Four Steam Locomotives at Disneyland Park Here’s something you don’t see every day … all four Disneyland Railroad locomotives in front of the Main Street Train Station at Disneyland park. A Foggy Morning on the Rivers of America Disneyland Resort Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer shared this beautiful, rarely seen moment from Disneyland park. Disney Parks Blog Time Capsule: February 2010 by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

What do you get when you combine the power of the Force, the magic of Disney and the excitement of cruising? An out-of-this-galaxy experience unlike any other! Last week, I shared the exciting news that we’ve added Star Wars Day at Sea, a brand-new, day-long celebration, to eight special sailings on the Disney Fantasy in early 2016. Today, I want to tell you more about the immersive entertainment you can expect throughout the day. Check out these intergalactic highlights: Force-filled Fun for Everyone Darth Vader, Chewbacca, Boba Fett, Stormtroopers and other characters from across the Star Wars galaxy will be onboard for scheduled meet and greets, as well as roaming on deck and elsewhere around the ship. You’re also encouraged to dress up in your own stellar costumes!A shipboard version of the popular Jedi Training Academy experience invites young Jedi hopefuls – known as “Padawans” – to learn lightsaber moves from a Jedi Master. They can then use the Force and face off in a final test against the evil Darth Vader.Kids and families enjoy friendly competition during Star Wars trivia games, covering fun facts from the film and television sagas.For Younglings, Star Wars-themed arts and crafts, games and activities will be offered throughout the day in Oceaneer Club and Oceaneer Lab youth clubs.In the evening, adults entering the night club will feel like they stepped into the Mos Eisley cantina scene. Characters and cantina music set the mood as Star Wars-themed specialty cocktails are served.Film Screenings and Celebrities You can watch the first six Star Wars films and follow Darth Vader, Obi Wan Kenobi, Luke and Leia along their epic journey.Also showing will be episodes of the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels.On each of the special sailings, celebrities and insiders from the Star Wars galaxy will share their experiences, meet fans and sign autographs.Star Wars Deck Party and Fireworks There’s intergalactic fun when the Star Wars deck party blasts off to an exciting evening filled with music, dancing and games.Star Wars characters converge on the deck stage for a celebration of the Star Wars saga in a show featuring special effects and guest participation.The deck party culminates in a spectacular display of themed pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects, lasers and Star Wars music.Who’s ready to join us on the Disney Fantasy for Star Wars Day at Sea? Star Wars Day at Sea on the Disney Fantasy to Feature Deck Party, Characters, Film Screenings, Celebrities and More by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Frozen Fun is now at Disney California Adventure Park! Sing along to "For the First Time in Forever" with Anna, Elsa, the Abominable snowman, a goat from Big Thunder Mountain and more! Come...From:Disney ParksViews:3058276ratingsTime:01:14More inTravel & Events

It was a busy weekend at Port Canaveral. View the full article

Today is Presidents’ Day, and to mark the occasion we’ll be paying tribute to our own presidential-inspired attraction, Hall of Presidents, here on the Disney Parks Blog. If you read any Walt Disney biography, you’ll get a sense of Walt’s patriotism and how that eventually inspired him to create attractions like Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln and Hall of Presidents. Other attractions that carry a patriotic theme, like American Adventure at Epcot, have continued this tradition. In honor of today’s holiday, please enjoy our latest Disney Parks Blog wallpaper. Click on the image below to download. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. And check out our complete gallery of wallpapers on our special page. Mark Presidents Day With This Disney Parks Blog Wallpaper by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

You’re in for a treat today, as we visit one of my most favorite Disney World restaurants — Sanaa. Learn About: SanaaAnimal Kingdom Lodge Disney World RestaurantsSanaa is truly a hidden Disney treasure, and while I hope you all have the opportunity to enjoy it, honestly, I hope the word never totally gets out! I know that may sound selfish, but Sanaa is a favorite of mine for many, many reasons. In addition to a number of truly exquisite meals in the past, I also appreciate the quiet atmosphere. And it’s never been difficult to get an Advance Dining Reservation here — even at the last minute. There had been some changes in the menu since I visited last, so I was anxious to book dinner at Sanaa on a recent trip to see if it’s still just as wonderful as it’s always been. AtmosphereSanaa is a hidden gem in part because it’s actually somewhat hidden. To get to Sanaa, you’ll need to head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Once there, look for signs pointing you toward Kidani Village, the Disney Vacation Club portion of the resort. Outside of Sanaa As with all of the other restaurants at Animal Kingdom Lodge, Sanaa has been thoughtfully named. The word “sanaa” is Swahili for “art”. Step up to the restaurant’s entrance, and you start to see why. Hand woven trays decorate the area behind the podium and beautiful beads line the counter. Sanaa check-in Be on the lookout for this guy though. (We’re talking about the Hidden Mickey…not the bird. ) You’ll catch a an artistically rendered glimpse or two of him throughout the area. Hidden Mickey at Sanaa’s Entrance One of my favorite touches are the African Proverbs that you’ll find on walls throughout Kidani Village. Think about it for a while! African Proverb and Beads While you wait for your table — and the wait isn’t likely to be long — you’ll get your first glimpse of Sunset Savanna. Keep your eyes peeled. The area is home to dozens of birds and animals, including gazelles, zebras, cranes, ostriches, and more. And right outside THESE windows, you my get to see a tortoise or two. Windows in Sanaa’s Waiting Area En route to your table, you’ll pass the Lounge. This is one of my favorite spots to relax and unwind. Bar Area Because it’s opened continuously from 11:30 to midnight, it’s a good option if you’re looking for a meal at one of those in-between times, or you just want to meet friends for a quiet night cap. Bar Seating This is a detail that I love about Animal Kingdom Lodge (and most spots in Disney, actually) — no space is left untouched. Check out the rich detail on the ceiling in the bar area, which provides a subtle sense of definition… Ceiling Detail in the Bar …And this is what I mean. Once you enter the main restaurant, you leave the “building” of the entrance, and you’re under the canopy of a sprawling acacia tree. Atmosphere It blends beautifully with the wide-arched picture windows, and melds the interior with the exterior. Request a window-side table, and you’ll enjoy great views of the savanna as you dine. Window Seating Chances are pretty good that you’ll even see a few of these guys. And it’s a good time to note — the ever-changing parade of wildlife outside the windows is a great diversion for little people in your group! There are few better ways to distract a toddler than by pointing out real life zebras! Sanaa’s View Seating is broken up into small alcoves, and tables and chairs are fashioned with the same artisan detail as other surroundings. The mismatched chairs give the space an eclectic feel. Seating and Atmosphere Padded booths also offer a cozy option, if you prefer extra comfort to views. Seating and Rich Ceiling and Lighting Detail Another Mickey and Round Booth Seating And remember when I said to keep an eye out for Mickey sightings? Hidden Mickey on a Table Because the restaurant is decorated to resemble an East African spice market, you’ll find some interesting elements. I always stop to take in this Zanzibar Coffee Pot Display. It’s fascinating! Zanzibar Coffee Pot Display Zanzibar Coffee and Description of Coffee Pot Coffee from a street vendor in the exotic Spice Islands? Ah…to be there now! Well, we’ll just have to content ourselves with some of Sanaa’s outside-the-box offerings. Not a bad alternative in my opinion! Let’s take a look. EatsYou’ll soon find that there’s more to the art at Sanaa than just the visual, however. The restaurant seeks to highlight “The Art of African Cooking with Indian Flavors”. To that end, what you receive on your plate will be just as much of an epicurean art form as any display you’ve seen thus far. While I didn’t enjoy one on this visit, I usually like to start my meal with a Malawi Mango Margarita, one of my favorite Disney Margaritas. This frozen version combines Tequila with Van der Hum Tangerine Liqueur, Mango Purée, and Lime Juice for a good sweet-tart balance. Malawi Mango Margarita If you enjoy getting your fill of Safari Amber at Disney, be sure to order one at Sanaa, where it’s available on tap. Safari Amber on Draft We love to start a meal here with the Indian-Style Bread Service. It is important to note that bread at Sanaa is not complimentary. But I would definitely recommend that you try it. The Naan here is to die for. Choose three types of bread from five choices — Plain Naan, Garlic-Ginger Naan, Spiced Naan, Onion Kucha, or Paneer Paratha. On a previous visit, we chose Naan, Onion Kulcha, and Paneer Paratha. A Few Bread Service Choices — Naan – Onion Kulcha – Paneer Paratha You also choose three accompaniments from a list of nine — Red Chile Sambal, Cucumber Raita, Coriander Chutney, Mango Chutney, Coconut Chutney, Garlic Pickle, Spicy Jalapeño-Lime Pickle, Roasted Red Bell Pepper Hummus, or Tamarind Chutney. You can see the three we tried previously in the picture below, but I’d happily try any and all of the choices! They pack an amazing amount of flavor. Bread Service Accompaniments — Red Chile Sambal – Mango Chutney – Roasted Red Bell Pepper Hummus This time around, I decided to try something new for a starter — the Seasonal Soup. At the time we visited, Butternut Squash Soup was the offering du jour. Normally, I’m a big fan of Butternut Squash and Pumpkin Soups, but this time, I felt the kitchen was a little heavy handed with the sweet spices. What should have been an appetizer tasted more like onion-flavored pumpkin pie. And that’s not something I enjoy. Dial back the spices a bit, and this would probably be a winner. Butternut Squash Soup While I wasn’t thrilled with my choice of starter, soon, my main course arrived. I know that there are tons of amazing dishes on the Sanaa menu, but I simply cannot visit here without enjoying their braised dishes, poetically termed “Slow-cooked in Gravy, Simple and Well-seasoned”. This time, I went with Butter Chicken (surprise!!) and Chicken Vindaloo. Served with your choice of Basmati Rice or Five-Grain Pilaf, I chose the latter. And as always, it was fantastic! I know, I know, you’ve heard it all before. But the Butter Chicken is rich with a stunning combo of Garam Masala, Stewed Tomatoes, and Cream. Chicken Vindaloo provides a full-flavored spiciness that I really enjoyed. The meat was tender and combined with the nutty Pilaf, the textures were awesome. I always smoosh all of these together so the rice just becomes another texture within the chicken dishes. Slow-cooked in Gravy, Simple and Well-seasoned — Butter Chicken and Chicken Vindaloo My husband opted for a new-to-us dish — the Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak. Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak Served with Roasted Potatoes, Braised Winter Greens, and Coriander Chutney, the presentation was neatly executed and gorgeous. Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak — Up Close He was really pleased with the flavors, and the meat was tender and cooked perfectly. I think we have another contender for Best Disney Steak! Grilled Beef Sirloin Steak — Another View If kiddos are part of your dining crew at Sanaa, you will probably be pleased to see that there are many healthier, Mickey Check menu options. The little person in our crew opted for the Grilled Chicken Breast, served with Basmati Rice and Veggies. The meal also comes with Sliced Apples and your choice of Milk or Bottled Water. It was met with general approval…the rice was a winner. Kids’ Mickey Check Meal – Grilled Chicken Breast With our delicious meals consumed, we turned our attention to the dessert menu. To accompany your sweet ending at Sanaa, you can enjoy a couple of different special hot beverages. I always linger over the Loose Tea Selection. But coffee lovers can also indulge in a press pot of Kenya Coffee. Loose Tea Selection The first sweet we chose was Banana Cheesecake, which is accompanied by Chocolate Sauce and Pistachios. It was good, but be forewarned — it’s seriously banana-y. And extra yellow. Like, there’s some extract and added color goin’ on in there somewhere. Banana Cheesecake We also tried the Spice Apple Samosas, which come with two Dipping Sauces — Chocolate and Salted Caramel. These were similar to donuts and very good. I’d give the Salted Caramel Sauce a slight edge though, since I think it makes more sense with Apple. Spice Apple Samosas There were also some GREAT kid dessert options! While the Savanna S’mores and “Cookies and Milk” (Decorate-Your-Own Sugar Cookie accompanied by Strawberry Lassi) were intriguing, we ended up choosing the Peanut Butter Turtle. And I was so glad we did! Because — well, look! Peanut Butter Turtle A little dome of Peanut Butter Mousse, made without Egg, sits atop a round of Banana Cake. But the Garnishes! That fun Rock Candy and Blue Gel totally made the plate. Peanut Butter Turtle — Up Close The consistency was less like Peanut Butter Mousse (no light and airy here) and more similar to Peanut Butter Candy. Like a super light, whipped peanut butter fudge. Next time I go to Sanaa, I’m totally asking the pastry chef to make me a giant-person sized one of these. Peanut Butter Turtle — Cross Section OverallIf you’re looking for me to change my tune about Sanaa based upon this latest trip, well, it’s just not gonna happen. It remains one of my favorite dining spots in all of Disney. The food is consistently delicious. The setting is tranquil with a well executed theme. And the service is always gracious. Sanaa offers everything a seasoned Disney lover enjoys about dining in the ‘World. Add to it that you rarely have to wait for a table here, and it becomes a no-brainer. If you haven’t had the pleasure, you MUST try Sanaa on your very next Disney World visit. Is Sanaa one of your favorite places to dine in Walt Disney World? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts! 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: Sanaa at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Lodge News! Sanaa at the Animal Kingdom Lodge Unveils New Lunch Menu…With Some Surprises! Review: Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge View the full article