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’Tis the season… and we’re not talking about Fall or the Holidays (though they are soon upon us here at Disney World). Nope, it’s about that time of year when Disney World bars and lounges receive a menu makeover. Classic Margarita with a View If you’d like to explore all the options including beer and wine, we’ve got the updated Disney Bar and Lounge Menu for you here. And today we’re going page-by-page through the Specialty Cocktails to explore the new offerings, and see which of the favorites have stuck around. Allrighty, then… here we go! Pimm’s Punch and the Rye Manhattan are both returnees that are included in the updated menu. Pimm’s Punch and Rye Manhattan Pimm’s Punch as served But the Moscow Mule, Blue Mule, and the Sidecar Noir (nominee for favorite name!) are all new. Moscow or Blue Mule, and Sidecar Noir Smoked Turkey stuck around, and is joined by the Fireball Cocktail. Smoked Turkey and Fireball Cocktail The Pina CoLAVA and Bahama Mama aren’t going anywhere, and neither are the Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea or the Captain’s Mai Tai. Pina CoLAVA and Bahama Mama Pina CoLAVA from Petals Pool Bar at Disney’s Pop Century Resort Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea and Captain’s Mai Tai Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea Perhaps the most unique beverage joining the ranks is the Banana Spiced Rum Martini: Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Bols Creme de Banana, and RumChata Cream Liqueur. The Godiva Chocolate Martini is still available (however, the Godiva Chocolate Flight is not included on the updated menu). Banana Spiced Rum Martini and Godiva Chocolate Martini The regular Bacardi Mojito is listed alongside the new Raspberry-Ginger Mojito. Raspberry Ginger Mojito and Bacardi Mojito Mojito You’ll still have plenty of opportunities to stock up on souvenir glow cubes with these fan favorites: the Magical Star Cocktail and Blue “Glow-tini.” Glow drinks! Blue Glow-Tini The Agave Nectar Margarita and Habanero Lime Margarita remain, but now you’ll see two Tequila Flights listed on the same page: a Lunazul flight, and a Roca Patron. Margaritas and Tequila Flights Possibly the biggest addition, though, is the selection of tequila choices available in two-ounce pours. Tequila No major changes to the Non-Alcoholic Specialties, which still feature All-Natural Lemonade, Wild Strawberry Lemonade, Coconut Elixir, and the Sparkling No-Jito. Non-alcoholic Specialties Lemonade with Wild Berry Foam So, you’ve got a few new choices when you’re raising a glass during your Disney World vacation. What do you think of the additions and changes? Did your tried-and-true stick around, or do you like to change things up a bit with each visit to your favorite Disney World watering hole? No matter what, we say, “Cheers!” Which specialty cocktail would you choose? 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: News! Updated Disney Bar and Lounge Menu: New Drinks and ReviewNews! California Grill Menu and Epcot’s France Ice Cream Shop Menu UpdatesNews! Menu Updates at Disney Restaurants View the full article

From now on, the lowest grade an Orange County secondary student will get for a class is 50. View the full article

There were plenty of surprises in this week’s College Football Playoff rankings, but none more shocking than Oregon knocking Florida State at of the No. 2 spot. View the full article

An Orlando Police officer who was arrested for two incidents within nine days earlier this year was fired on Monday, officials said. View the full article

Orange County detectives were dispatched Tuesday to Tennessee, where the search for the quadruple amputee considered a person of interest in his parents' deaths appeared to have come to a bloody end. View the full article

Former Sgt. Keith Hale found it hard to put into words. View the full article

So you've bought your tickets for Thanksgiving travel — if you haven't, expect to pay more — and you're ready to face the crowds at Orlando International Airport. View the full article

When outreach workers begin placing chronically homeless people in free apartments next year, it won't be hard to figure out who makes the list. View the full article

At Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawai'i we make traveling with your little one that much easier. Aulani was designed with families in mind, with special activities just for...From:Disney ParksViews:30ratingsTime:00:55More inTravel & Events

How many of you are excited for the very first runDisney Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Weekend, taking place November 14–16 at the Disneyland Resort? Here’s your first look at some of the merchandise that will debut as part of this momentous occasion and help you create your own super hero identity. You’ll find some of our most notable masked marvels paired with fun phrases such as “Assembled To Run,” “Sorry Boys, Gotta Run,” “Impressed … Of Course You Are,” “Run Like A Super Hero” and others on an array of performance T-shirts, tanks, hoodies, jackets and other novelty items. I will be the first to admit that the phrase “I Smashed the Half” makes me laugh every time. Our runner’s hat, Bondi Bands and Sweaty Bands, each themed to different phrases, logos and superheroes will give you a ‘head’ start on looking cool as you run, while our magnets and window clings will show the world that you hold your own special powers. In addition to the pre-purchased pins for the Half Marathon and 5K, a medal spinner pin reminiscent of a certain super hero logo will be offered. I think you know what letter I’m talking about. If you are a ‘super’ fan of the Dooney & Bourke bags, I have a special surprise for you! Here is your official first look at the pattern that will appear on several silhouettes including a satchel, cross-body bag and wristlet. Finally, keep an eye out for additional runDisney apparel, along with 2014 runDisney Coast to Coast Race Challenge offerings. It’s time to assemble your list of must-have items! First Look at runDisney Avengers Super Heroes Half Marathon Merchandise by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

An outdoor oasis is coming to one of Orange County's most urban areas — within sight of traffic-choked West Colonial Drive. View the full article

Despite wet conditions Saturday night, thousands of runners kept their “reservations” and participated in the Fifth Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon at Walt Disney World Resort. Exciting finishes, a wedding proposal, costumes and magical runDisney memories were all on the menu. After an exciting start at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, and covering 13.1 miles through Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot, 21-year-old Chris Sorrick of St. Petersburg, Fla., was the first to cross the finish line. It was his first ever half marathon victory. Jenn Berry, 34, of Denver, Colo., was the top women’s finisher. Berry’s victory was twice as magical; she was the first place women’s finisher at the Disneyland Half Marathon presented by Cigna in September. Rain did not dampen the runDisney spirit for the thousands of runners who followed our winners. From our favorite “Frozen” characters to a wine bottle and spaghetti and meatballs, runners showed their creativity and Disney Side with their costumes. Shouts of joy, high fives, choreographed finishes and tears of happiness were all served up at the finish line. And for one runner this night was just a little more memorable and magical. Krystyna Hanley of Buffalo, N.Y., was surprised by her boyfriend Andrew Masterson at the finish line. Standing in the rain and in front of thousands of screaming fans, Masterson asked Hanley to join him for the marathon of life and to be his wife. Before getting a finishers medal she received a diamond ring. Oh, by the way, she said yes! I hope you take a moment to watch our recap video and enjoy the sights and sounds of the Fifth Disney Wine and Dine Half Marathon. I invite you to join in the fun and create your own runDisney memories and I look forward to seeing you cross a runDisney finish at a future event. To make your reservation for an upcoming runDisney race weekend, visit runDisney.com. Runners Enjoy a Full Menu at the Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Are you looking forward to seeing Fantasmic! at Disneyland, but waiting to grab a seat… well, not so much? Fantasmic Finale at Disneyland Beginning November 12, guests will be able to book dining experiences for Fantasmic shows starting December 12. Each dining package includes a Fastpass for Fantasmic (which will be a requirement for seats in reserved viewing starting December 12). There are four packages to choose from: Guests can book the Blue Bayou Restaurant “Fantasmic!” Dinner Dining Package. This package includes one three-course meal (an appetizer, entree, and dessert, along with a beverage), a special Fantasmic! souvenir, along with the Fastpass for Fantasmic! The price (tax and gratuity not included) is $61.00 for adults, $23.00 for children ages 3-9. Dinner seatings will begin at 4:00 pm. Blue Bayou Sign The River Belle Terrace will open exclusively to guests enjoying the River Belle Terrace “Fantasmic!” Dinner Dining Package. While River Belle Terrace will remain open as a quick service for breakfast until 2:00 pm every day, the spot will transition into a Table Service experience for Fantasmic guests. Dinner seatings will begin at 3:00 pm, and will include one three-course meal (an appetizer, entree, and dessert, along with a beverage) along with the Fantasmic Fastpass. The price (tax and gratuity not included) is $41.99 for adults, $21.99 for children ages 3-9. River Belle Terrace Prefer to fill up the critters in your party in Critter Country? The Hungry Bear Restaurant “Fantasmic!” Show Dessert Party features a selection of dessert and beverages, along with the Fantasmic Fastpass. This experience includes live entertainment and begins 90 minutes prior to the start of Fantasmic! The price is the same for adults and children: $29.99, and tax and gratuity are included. Hungry Bear Restaurant Aladdin’s Oasis “Fantasmic!” On-The-Go includes a grab-and-go meal along with the Fantasmic Fastpass. Adults can choose from the following entrees: Herb marinated chicken with seasonal vegetables, Lasagna Bolognese, or Vegetarian Lasagna. Adults will also receive a salad, dinner roll, beverage, and dessert. Children can choose from Kids chicken, pasta, and macaroni and cheese, and will also receive a serving of seasonal vegetables, fresh fruit, a dinner roll, a beverage, and a Mickey cookie. Meals can be picked up between 12:00 pm and 7:00 pm. The price (tax not included) is $19.99 for adults, $13.99 for children ages 3-9. Advanced Reservations for these experiences is highly recommended, as space is limited. Booking opens on November 12 for shows beginning December 12, and can be made by calling 714-781-DINE (714-781-3463) or online by visiting disneyland.com . What do you think of the new Fantasmic Dining Packages? 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: Disneyland’s Fantasmic! Premium Viewing Dessert PackageFantasmic! Lunch Dining Packages AnnouncedDining in Disneyland First Look! New Treats Coming to Disney California Adventure View the full article

If you love cruising to tropical locations, chances are you also love visiting beautiful beaches. Luckily for you, there’s no shortage of warm sand in the Bahamas and Caribbean where our ships frequent throughout the year. But deciding which glorious stretch of sand is a good fit for your family isn’t always easy. Our Port Adventures are the best way for your family to experience a hassle-free beach day, and we’ve worked with tour operators to take you to some of the best beaches in the places we visit. Here’s a look at my favorites in 10 of our tropical destinations: 1. Castaway Family Beach, Castaway Cay (Bahamas) Most cruises from Florida include a stop at our private island, Castaway Cay, and if you’re traveling with little ones, Castaway Family Beach is the perfect spot for you. The beach is lined with umbrellas, chairs and hammocks for your complimentary use, and the water is sectioned off for swimming, floating and snorkeling. Plus, the Pelican Plunge water slide is within swimming distance from shore and the all-you-care-to-eat lunch buffet is steps away. 2. Blue Lagoon Island, Nassau (Bahamas) This spectacular private island is just a half-hour boat ride from the port of Nassau. We offer several excursions there with different options for what your family would like to do, whether that’s swimming with dolphins, snuggling with sea lions or swaying in hammocks! The family-owned island has all of the amenities you need, yet it’s set apart by its untouched natural environment and authentic Bahamian experience. 3. Playa Mia, Cozumel (Mexico) With its water park, water trampolines and water bicycles (just to name a few!), Playa Mia is an active family’s paradise on the island of Cozumel. The full-facility beach also has plenty of space where you can relax, including lounge chairs both on the beach and by the pool. Our Cozumel Beach Break excursion is a convenient way to get time at this popular locale, with a delicious lunch buffet included! 4. Seven Mile Beach, Grand Cayman (Cayman Islands) Seven Mile Beach on Grand Cayman is famous for its long stretch of coral sand and clear blue water, and it’s just a short ride from the port. On our Family Beach Day at Tiki Beach Port Adventure, you’ll have access to full amenities there, including lounge chairs, fresh-water showers, a restaurant and not to mention a gorgeous view! 5. Magen’s Bay Beach, St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) With its calm waters and half-mile stretch of white sand, Magen’s Bay is home to St. Thomas’ premier beach. The beachside café in this untouched environment makes it a great option for families, especially on our Magens Bay Beach Break excursion, which also includes a stop at Drake’s Seat to enjoy the panoramic view of the bay. 6. Orient Bay Beach, St. Maarten (West Indies) Known as the “French Riviera of the Caribbean,” Orient Bay is the most famous beach in St. Maarten. Adventures like our Afternoon Beach Bash Tour and French Riviera Beach Rendezvous are great options if you want to just relax in this stunning locale. For a more active day, our Family Fun, Beach and Nature Walk adds the option to boogie board and join a guided walk through part of a nature reserve. 7. Isla Verde Beach, San Juan (Puerto Rico) Isla Verde Beach in San Juan, Puerto Rico is especially popular for families with its gentle waves, huge expanse of white sand and access to amenities. If you’re visiting San Juan during your cruise, you can join our Isla Verde Beach Escape or our San Juan Family Beach Day, both including a lunch buffet and the chance to play beach volleyball! 8. Rose Hall Beach, Falmouth (Jamaica) Rose Hall Beach in Jamaica is home to several upscale resorts, adding an air of exclusivity to this beautiful stretch of sand. We give Disney cruisers the chance to enjoy time at one of these beautiful resorts on our Resort Beach Break – All Inclusive Port Adventure. Access to the resort’s amenities, including pools, slides and dining, makes this excursion a great day for families. 9. Cane Garden Bay Beach, Tortola (British Virgin Islands) Tortola’s Cane Garden Bay is considered by many to be finest beach on the island. Restaurants, bars and shops are steps from the beach, making it an ideal spot for families. We just announced Tortola as a destination in 2016 and are working with local operators to develop family-friendly Port Adventures so you can enjoy this destination to its fullest. Stay tuned! 10. Crandon Park Beach, Miami (Florida) Miami is one of our homeports for cruises to the Bahamas and Caribbean, and no visit there is complete without stopping by one of the area beaches. My top pick for families is Crandon Park Beach, located on Key Biscayne in front of a sandbar that keeps the surf calm. This park also has an amusement center, picnic areas and plenty of other amenities for a comfortable family beach day. All of these beaches are sure to be enjoyed by cruisers of all ages, but later this week I’ll give more recommendations in these same locations for adults traveling without the little ones. Until then, are there any family-friendly beaches in these destinations that you want to add to this list? Top 10 Beaches for Families to Visit on a Disney Cruise by Arnaldo Zanonato: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With gasoline prices the lowest they've been since December 2010 Central Florida small businesses that spend heavily on fuel are reaping the benefits. View the full article

Earlier this week we began production on our annual holiday special for ABC, this year titled Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration. Today we’re giving you the first look at what’s in store Christmas morning from the Disneyland Resort. Train took the stage at Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle in Disneyland park to perform “Shake Up Christmas.” Donald Duck met up with Patrick Monahan and Jimmy Stafford after the performance and we snapped this fun photo. Trey Songz then delighted the audience with “All I Want For Christmas Is You.” Daisy showed up to wish Trey Happy Holidays. Over in Disney California Adventure park, Lucy Hale brought holiday cheer to Cars Land with her performance of “Mistletoe.” Back at Disneyland park, Trisha Yearwood gave the audience a beautiful rendition of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas.” Trisha met two of her biggest fans after her performance, Chip and Dale. ABC News Senior Meteorologist Rob Marciano from GMA Weekend joins us as host from the Disneyland Resort this year, and he and his wife Eryn brought daughter Madeline along to meet Minnie Mouse for the first time. Check back for updates about Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration and don’t forget to tune in to ABC on Thursday, Dec. 25 at 10 a.m. ET, 9 a.m. in all other time zones (check local listings). You can also join the conversation by using the hashtag #DisneyParade. First Look: Train, Trisha Yearwood, Lucy Hale, Trey Songz and More at the Disneyland Resort for Disney Parks Frozen Christmas Celebration on ABC by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

The longtime owner of the Mount Vernon Inn was "cleaning out the closets" Tuesday of his 65-year-old Winter Park hotel, which will be demolished early next year to make room for a luxury development. View the full article

If you don’t know Joe Kaminski, chances are you know his work. Joe’s amazing Disney character art has been featured on the Disney Parks Blog since launch and over the years, he’s continued to make magic while most of us sleep – he usually paints from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m. As Joe prepares for appearances at this week’s Disney Artist Showcase at the Art of Disney, we wanted to share a special behind-the-scenes look at how this self-taught artist inspires others to follow their passion. Joe’s motivation to create art comes from his children’s love of Disney characters but he was originally inspired to begin after seeing another Disney Parks Blog favorite, Don “Ducky” Williams, sketching Disney characters. Art created by Joe, Don “Ducky” Williams, blog author Will Gay and others will be featured in the upcoming Disney Artist Showcase at the Art of Disney location in Downtown Disney Marketplace at Walt Disney World Resort. We’ve included a schedule of which artists will make appearances at the events. Please note that all appearances are subject to change without notice. November 14-15 – David Buckley, Joe Kaminski, Will Gay, Don “Ducky” Williams, Mark SeppalaNovember 21-22 – Darren Wilson, Tim McCloskey, Joe Kaminski, Alex MaherDecember 5-6 – Brian Blackmore, Tim McCloskey, Jason Grandt, Costa AlavezosSelf-Taught Disney Artist Inspires With Paint at Walt Disney World Resort by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Check out this special behind-the-scenes look at how Joe Kaminski, a self-taught artist, inspires others to follow their passion. See how his art has influenced Walt Disney World: http://di.sn/tvB...From:Disney ParksViews:1284157ratingsTime:05:14More inTravel & Events

The culinary teams at Magic Kingdom Park have been decking their kitchens with festive treats for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Since Disney Parks Blog readers are all on Santa’s “nice list,” here’s a peek at some of the goodies that will be available at the party. How lovely are the branches of the Christmas tree cupcake from Gaston’s Tavern? Spiced confetti cake is topped with decadent butter cream frosting and sugary sprinkled “ornaments.” Of course, no Christmas tree is complete without the glittery star on top. If you’re looking for even more holiday decadence, try the cupcakes at Main Street Bakery. The adorable reindeer cupcake is a peanut butter delight. Vanilla cake with peanut butter is topped with mocha and peanut butter frosting, it’s almost too cute to eat! My favorite? The chocolate cupcake infused with peppermint and topped with a peppermint buttercream and sprinkles—it looks just like a candy cane! I might get coal in my stocking for it, but I couldn’t resist a bite of a buttery sugar cookie from Main Street Bakery. You can also find the craveable cookies next door at Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, where you can make a sweet sandwich with your favorite flavor of ice cream. While you’re there, check out this cool treat: scoops of vanilla and mint chocolate-chip ice cream served in a waffle bowl and topped with hot fudge, whipped cream and peppermint sprinkles. If you prefer soft serve, try the waffle sundae from Sleepy Hollow in Liberty Square. Infused with pumpkin, the waffle is dusted with cinnamon sugar, soft-serve ice cream and holiday sprinkles. What Disney Parks treats are on your Christmas list? ‘Tis the Season for Very Merry Treats at Magic Kingdom Park by Rachel Brent: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I’ve seen many items and art designs during my 11 years with Disney Theme Park Merchandise. During that time, there have been a few outstanding items that have caught my attention (I’m looking at you, Disney Centerpiece). Today, I’m happy to share what I think is my favorite art program we’ve ever introduced to Disney Parks – Holidays for Your Home. This nostalgic line of holiday decorative items includes ornaments, pillows, home goods and more. I caught up with the merchandise development team to learn more about the inspiration behind the designs. “We’ve been working on this new program for about 18 months,” explained Roger Dressen, merchandiser for seasonal products. “The designs were inspired by a few things from the 1960s, including handcrafted holiday cards sent by the Walt Disney Studios and classic holiday television programming. Lately, we’ve seen a resurgence of mid-century styles in many aspects of design. I grew up in the late 1960s and early 1970s, so Holidays for Your Home is a return to the holidays of my childhood.” To create this new art program, Disney Design Group artists, Mike Sullivan and Natalie Kennedy, used a color palette that would simultaneously feel both modern and nostalgic. Packaging and product designs contain certain colors that give items the appearance of being vintage without looking old. Finally, the use of textures and patterns give many items a handcrafted look. “One of my favorite items is the woven stocking that was meticulously crafted in North Carolina,” continued Roger. “I also love the glassware box which uses the vintage Disneyland and Walt Disney World logos. The whole design of the box makes the package a keepsake in its own right.” The art team included Disney characters as they would have appeared in the 1960s in many of the designs. “We wanted to capture that retro style, while still making sure that guests could immediately recognize Mickey Mouse,” explained Mike Sullivan, Senior Character Artist with Disney Design Group. Guests will find Holidays For Your Home items in select merchandise locations at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resorts. You may also find select products on the Disney Parks online store – DisneyParks.com/Holiday. I hope you have a swell holiday season this year! A Swell Holiday Collection For Your Home Now Available at Disney Parks by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Let’s say you’re in Hollywood Studios. It’s about a million degrees or freezing outside, and you’re hungry. You need some A/C (or heat) and food stat. So, you head right into ABC Commissary. Learn About: ABC CommissaryDisney's Hollywood Studios Disney World RestaurantsMore often than not, I think, that’s the drill for ABC Commissary. The theme (that of… well, a basic studio lot commissary) isn’t altogether exciting, and mostly it has a reputation for being a great place — above anything else — to score an easy seat in the air conditioning, and maybe grab a burger and a Coke. But there are a few dishes here we hadn’t paid much attention to previously that get a fair amount of love from DFB readers. So here we are at the Commissary, ready to try a couple of choices unique to this spot… and do a little exploring while were at it. AtmosphereThe name tells you just about everything: ABC Commissary is themed as a cafeteria on a studio lot — in this case, that of the ABC network. ABC Commissary Sign ABC Commissary Entrance Entering ABC Commissary ABC logo And this completely explains the decor: a very basic collection of insane amounts of seating, peppered with props, pics, and posters from ABC shows. ABC Commissary seating And plants and stuff. ABC Commissary seating Costumes from “Nashville” Signed pictures from cast of “The Chew” Props from “Revenge” Oh, and some palm trees, while we’re at it . Palm tree in seating area Clips from ABC shows are looped on high-hanging screens throughout your meal. TV screen For my part, I got a kick out of seeing this display of props from “The Middle” in the entryway. Did anyone watch this past season’s finale — the one where the Heck family finally gets to go on Sue’s dream vacation to Disney World? If so, you may recognize Sue’s scrapbook and Brick’s own Mickey ears. A script signed by the cast is on display, too. Props from “The Middle” season finale Fun fact! AJ and I got stuck in Epcot’s France Pavilion while Patricia Heaton (“Frankie Heck”) and Neil Flynn (“Mike Heck”) were filming a scene. Here’s the instagram pic for proof! (Not that you’ll ever hear either of us complain about being “stuck” next to Les Halles… moving on!) I believe this cross promotion totally works, because who here is ready to admit that half the reason they begged their parents to go on their first Disney vacation is because you watched the entire Full House gang — Kimmy Gibler included! — descend upon Disney World when “Jesse and the Rippers” landed a Magic Kingdom gig? Anyhoo, enough reminiscing about “Full House” (wait… is there ever such a thing as too much reminiscing about “Full House”?). On to the food! EatsWhile the surroundings here aren’t known for being remarkably unique, the menu has a couple of options that you won’t find elsewhere. Sure, you can grab a burger or a Chicken Club sandwich. A Seafood Platter has a home here, too, featuring shrimp and fish with fries. Ordering stations ABC Commissary menu — click to enlarge But on this visit, my friend and I were up for trying the Asian Salad with Chicken, and the Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon since we’d heard good things. We also went with the Angus Cheeseburger with Horseradish Sauce and Fried Shrimp… for good measure ;). The Asian Chicken Salad comes topped with lightly seasoned chicken on top (though you can order just the salad or top it with salmon instead). At first glance, it seemed pretty plain, with just the chicken and iceberg lettuce mix greeting the eye and the tastebuds. Asian Salad with Chicken But upon digging in a littler further, the snap of the shelled edamame and crunchy noodles gave this salad a nice variety in texture, and the light hint of sesame-ginger dressing provided a boost to the flavor, too. Edamame and crunchy noodles in salad Though I enjoyed the general flavors, I appreciated the level of freshness more than anything. It’s worth noting that both salads on the menu are made “tossed-to-order.” Even though the salads we tried are quite different from each other, they have a few things in common. Like in the Asian Chicken Salad, at first I didn’t think there was much more to the Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon other than the salmon and arugula upon first taste. Likewise, the dressing was put on with a very light touch, allowing the flavors of the salad ingredients to come through. Couscous, Quinoa, and Arugula Salad with Salmon But again, as I dug in further, I was happy to find plenty of the quinoa and couscous blend throughout. Between that and the hearty serving of salmon (tender, and not at all dry), this one is surprisingly filling. If you’ve shied away from couscous or quinoa, I think this is a great way to give it a try — there is plenty of it without being overwhelming. Couscous and quinoa blend in salad The one complaint I’ve heard about this salad is that it has too many black olives. Not being much into olives, I wasn’t looking forward to that aspect. But my salad had so few that I barely registered their presence. I’m not sure if this was unique to my salad or a recipe tweak, but I liked the general blend. In fact, I was struck by how much I enjoyed this salad, finding it to be both unique and well-prepared, and I would get it again. Finally, we tried the Angus Cheeseburger with Horseradish Sauce and Fried Shrimp, for a minor twist on a typical cheeseburger, which comes with fries. Cheeseburger with Fried Shrimp For those who aren’t huge fans of the strong, distinct flavor of horseradish sauce, you’ll be glad to know it’s served on the side. Horseradish shop Essentially, the only thing that differentiates this burger from a regular cheeseburger is the three fried shrimp on top, which you can tuck in your burger, attempt to keep on top , or use as a side item for dipping in the horseradish. Fried shrimp Cheeseburger cross-section The breading on the shrimp adds a nice flavor (can you ever go wrong with panko crumbs?), but the pieces of shrimp were pretty small and thin. While that’s good for tucking them in the burger, if you like, it didn’t lend enough uniqueness to steer me to pay the extra money for the shrimp over just getting the regular bacon cheeseburger in the future. The burger itself was pretty standard — it will do the trick if a burger is what you’re after. OverallWe (and Disney food fans all over) say it all the time: “Disney food is not just burgers and fries.” And I’d say ABC Commissary does a decent job at proving this case. Now, did my most recent visit to ABC Commissary convince me it’s a must-stop? No — I’m such a fan of atmosphere along with my food in the parks, and ABC Commissary doesn’t hold up as well as Backlot Express or even the outdoor eateries along Sunset Boulevard, like Rosie’s All American Cafe, where you can enjoy the park views and the small Victory Garden. However, having enjoyed the salads, it gave me more of an appreciation for what this spot strives to do in bringing a few unexpected items to the table for park-goers, and healthier choices at that. If those ideas strike your fancy, pull up a seat by the sparkling light of some sequined costumes from “Nashville,” and give ABC Commissary a go! Have you dined at ABC Commissary recently? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! 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: ABC Commissary at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosReview: Lunch at The Hollywood Brown Derby in Disney’s Hollywood StudiosReview: Hollywood and Vine Lunch at Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Starlit Hui features a celebration of traditional Hawaiian and modern entertainment, hula performers, cherished Disney Characters and delightful surprises you'll only find at Aulani, A Disney...From:Disney ParksViews:60ratingsTime:00:38More inTravel & Events

A wedding ring and a new dishwasher led to the sudden death of a Volusia County man on Thursday evening. View the full article

Orlando businessman Nik Patel's companies are being handed over to a fiduciary to continue liquidating his assets, about five weeks after Patel was arrested on charges of loan fraud. View the full article