Disney4me
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The Disney Genie+ service has been divisive amongst park-goers since its introduction, and Cast Members also have a bit of a love-hate relationship with the service.
Lightning Lane sign at Beauty and the Beast show
The Disney Genie service was introduced after the pandemic as a replacement for the old FastPass+ system. The service includes a complimentary planning tool, along with the option to add two additional options. These options are the Genie+ service and purchasing Individual Lightning Lanes.
Many Disney World fans have been vocal about their dislike of the new service, especially when comparing it to the old FastPass+ service, which was free and allowed you to book rides in advance of your trip. And while guests have been very divided over their opinions, Cast Members also feel a lot of the burden of this service. Cast Members on the frontline who are operating the attractions are the ones who often have to deal with a lot of the burden of this divisive service.
A little throwback to FastPass+
Before we get too far, let’s explain a bit about what Genie+ is and how it works. Genie+ is a paid, add-on service that you can add to your park ticket for the day. It can be bought for one or multiple parks each day, and the prices will vary based on the demand. Busy days will see higher prices, while slow days will see cheaper prices. Once you have purchased Genie+, you will use the My Disney Experience app to book your Lightning Lanes. You will be able to book almost any attraction in the park, except for a few major rides that you will need to purchase an Individual Lightning Lane.
Soarin’ Around The World entrance
Each Lightning Lane that you book will have a certain return window, and when it is your time, you head to the attraction and scan in at the Lightning Lane entrance. The Lightning Lane provides a quicker line to experience the attraction, however, the only guarantee is that the line will be shorter than the standby line. It may be a five-minute line, or you may find yourself waiting upwards of 30 minutes if it is a particularly popular ride. While this service provides guests with an option to pay to skip the lines, it has also seen its fair share of critics. Now, let’s get to some of the frustrations of Genie+.
©Disney
Those who are waiting in the stand-by line may have to see lots of Lightning Lane guests loading, or experience longer waits because of the Lightning Lane. As well, those in the Lightning Lane may feel as though their wait is too long, especially since they are now paying for this service. The Lightning Lane is also utilized by those with the Disability Access Service (DAS) and Rider Switches, and with the addition of those who purchased a Lightning Lane, the line can end up fairly busy. This can mean a longer wait for all parties involved, and while Disney tries to report wait times as accurately as possible, they are sometimes off. Cast Members often have to deal with upset guests who have been waiting a long time. The Cast Members are trying their best to be efficient and safe, while also following the ratios set for their attraction. It can be frustrating to end up waiting a long time, but sometimes that will be the case.
Lightning Lane doesn’t guarantee you won’t have to wait.
Another frustration is that when you book a Lightning Lane, you are given a specific window to return to the attraction. It is an hour-long window, and you can show up at any point during the window. However, sometimes things happen, and you may not make the window. Cast Members try their best to accommodate guests, but it is not always possible. The return times are there for a reason and are in place to help with line management. It can be frustrating to miss your window and be denied entry, but Cast Members are simply doing their jobs and trying to ensure the process is fair for everyone.
Cast Members want you to have a good time.
It is also possible that you may have selected a window, only for the ride to be down when you get there. This is something that is completely out of the Cast Members’ control. While definitely frustrating, the good news is that you will automatically receive a multi-experience pass that can either be used later in the day at the same attraction. Or you can view a list of additional attractions that the pass will work at. The multi-experience pass will allow you to tap through the Lightning Lane on one included attraction. You can wait for the original attraction to open again OR use it on a different attraction, not both. When an attraction does go down, you may notice a longer Lightning Lane wait once it reopens, as others will also be redeeming their Lightning Lane. Keep that in mind and be prepared to possibly wait longer.
Sometimes attractions go down!
While the service is still very divisive, understand that Cast Members are likely as frustrated by it as you are. They don’t have control over the Disney Genie+ service, and they also understand your frustrations. Cast Members are doing the best they can with what they have, while making sure everyone is being treated as fairly as possible, and trying to ensure guests have a magical trip. They are juggling a lot at once, so please be patient and kind. A great way to be prepared is to learn more about Genie+. We have lots of resources including this guide, as well as oodles of videos, like the one you can watch right here!
Stay tuned to DFB for more Disney news and Disney World tips!
Check out EVERYTHING you need to know about Genie+ and Lightning Lanes!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you used Genie+ before? Let us know about your experience in the comments!
The post Disney World Cast Members Have a Love-Hate Relationship With Genie+. Let's Talk About It. first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Look at that mountain. (OK, technically, it is a salt dome). Isn’t it glorious? And GREEN!
Soon, we’ll be flying down that big old hill on the NEW Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride in Magic Kingdom, and we can’t WAIT.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open in Disneyland and Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom this year! In fact, Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will open in Disney World THIS SUMMER and “later in 2024” in Disneyland. The last time we checked the calendar, summer was looking pretty close, which means that Disney Imagineers must be getting close to finishing all that construction. During a recent visit to Magic Kingdom, we noticed some EXCITING progress we simply had to share!
The new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride will pick up the story of The Princess and the Frog “after the final kiss, and join Princess Tiana and Louis on a musical adventure.” Tiana and her friends are preparing for their first-ever Mardi Gras performance, but like any good story, there’s a hitch in the plans. That’s where we come in!
“Tonight Only: A Celebration of Family and Friends of New Orleans at the Proud Home of Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen! Everone Is Welcome!”
Speaking of Tiana’s friends, Disney confirmed that Prince Naveen, Louis, and Mama Odie will be featured on the ride, along with Eudora (Tiana’s mom), Charlotte, “Big Daddy,” the King and Queen of Maldonia, and Naveen’s brother Prince Ralphie. Phew! That’s a LOT of characters!
©Disney
OK, now let’s get to the news. During our visit to Magic Kingdom, we spotted some ride testing. But wanna know the best part? We saw a FLASH of light, meaning that Disney is likely testing its cameras for ride photos, too! Watch the video below to see that flash in action. Based on the timing, it seems like the camera will remain in the same location as it was before the Princess and the Frog makeover.
Say “cheese”!
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is currently ride testing with photos! 
pic.twitter.com/tV3FrOWESt— Disney Food Blog (@DisneyFoodBlog) May 10, 2024
Imagineers testing Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
We’ll be sure to keep our eyes out for additional updates. In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.
Check out everything we know about Tiana’s Bayou Adventure HERE!!
Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What’s your favorite Magic Kingdom ride? Let us know in the comments!
The post NEW Ride Testing UPDATE Spotted at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom first appeared on the disney food blog.
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We’re celebrating Pixar Fest now through August 4th at Disneyland and Disney California Adventure, and now, we’re checking out the new food booths at Disney California Adventure!
Elemental Table
One of the new booths is The Elemental Table, inspired by Pixar’s sleeper hit Elemental, and at this booth, you’ll find sweet and savory dishes along with a couple of margaritas! Let’s check it out!
Menu
The Elemental Table booth is serving up two food dishes and two drinks for Pixar Fest, and they’re ALL NEW!
Elemental Table Booth
First up, there is a plant-based “Smoked Fire Wood” BBQ-spiced IMPOSSIBLE Chicken with hot mustard sauce, pickles, and charred onions.
Next up you can indulge your sweet tooth with the Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie featuring cake cookies baked with cocoa powder filled with cream cheese frosting and topped with crushed cinnamon candies.
Elemental Table Full Spread
Two margaritas are on the menu at the Elemental Table — the H2O-rita made with tequila, blue curaçao syrup, lychee nectar, yuja purée, and lime juice garnished with a rock candy stick and the Exothermic Margarita made with tequila, ancho chile liqueur, passion fruit nectar, lime & grapefruit juices, and agave nectar garnished with a rock candy stick.
The drinks
Eats
The plant-based “Smoked Fire Wood” BBQ-spiced IMPOSSIBLE Chicken is made with hot mustard sauce, pickles, and charred onions for $8.50.
“Smoked Fire Wood” BBQ-spiced IMPOSSIBLE Chicken
This had some heat! We definitely felt a little bit of a kick to it. It wasn’t too spicy, but we thought it was the perfect amount. Our biggest gripe was that it was lukewarm when they served it to us. The combo of the mustard and pickles was one of our favorites, however, if you hate pickles this may not be the dish for you.
This is for pickle-lovers!
The BBQ flavor comes through from the coating on the strips, but we do have to warn you — the “chicken” tasted a bit salty to us.
Next up we tried the Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie. This dessert is made with cake cookies baked with cocoa powder filled with cream cheese frosting and topped with crushed cinnamon candies — and it looks kinda like the rocks from the movie Elemental!
Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie
At first glance, we were just shocked at how RED this thing is! But we were even more shocked that it did not stain our teeth red. So don’t be scared by the looks of this thing, but it was delicious. The center was the highlight — the frosting was super smooth and creamy. The cookies are spongy but we want to warn you that the top “burnt” part gives it a slightly weird texture. It all works for us, but if you’re hesitant about weird textures keep that in mind.
Inside
It costs $7 and we’d probably go back to get this again!
Drinks
Moving on to the margaritas!
First up is the H2O-Rita ($17) with tequila, blue curaçao syrup, lychee nectar, yuja purée, and lime juice garnished with a rock candy stick. This margarita was a little confusing to us — we couldn’t quite put our finger on the taste. The first thing that came to mind was a Bath and Body Works product but not really in a bad way? It’s fruity and mildly floral somehow. It was good but something better was in store…
H2O-rita
And next is the Exothermic Margarita ($17) with tequila, ancho chile liqueur, passion fruit nectar, lime & grapefruit juices, and agave nectar garnished with a rock candy stick. We saved the best for last because this was our favorite drink of the entire festival when we tried it! It’s really balanced — it’s mostly fruity with a tiny hint of spice. We mostly noticed the passion fruit flavor in this drink.
Exothermic Margarita
This is a must-grab for fruity drink fans! It’s hard to justify $17 for a drink, but if you’re gonna spend it, we recommend this one.
OVERALL
The items at the Elemental Table booth were pretty hit or miss…but the hits make it SO worth a stop. We loved the Exothermic Margarita especially, followed by the Kol Nut Whoopie Cookie Pie. If you’re in the mood for some tequila or a sweet treat, stop on by! We will say the IMPOSSIBLE Chicken dish was also pretty good but it’s not for everyone.
Elemental Table Full Spread
Stay tuned for more fun from this year’s Pixar Fest at Disneyland!
To see ALL the details about Pixar Fest 2024, CLICK HERE!
Want to Learn More About Disneyland?
Check Out the Links Below!DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide
Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland
What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure
Closures and Construction at Disneyland
Learn All About Disneyland Park
See What Marvelous Stuff You’ll Find at Avengers Campus in Disney California Adventure
Learn About Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure
Get All the Details About the Disneyland Mobile App
Everything You Need to Know About Mobile Order in Disneyland
Learn More About Disneyland’s Magic Key Program
Full Details About the Holiday Season in Disneyland
Full Details About Halloween Time at Disneyland
Get Some STRANGE Tips for Disneyland
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Are you making plans to attend this year’s Pixar Fest? Let us know in the comments!
The post REVIEW: The Elemental Table Food Booth at Pixar Fest in Disneyland first appeared on the disney food blog.
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There’s a legitimate hack to getting your Yak & Yeti favorites WITHOUT having to wait in those notoriously long lines (seriously, we tested it)!
We made a meal!
It’s no secret that Disney’s Animal Kingdom is home to some of our favorite restaurants to enjoy when we’re at Disney World, but we’re not always a fan of waiting around for our food. So where’s a good place to visit in the park that’s not going to keep you waiting? We’re about to blow your mind!
Most people don’t realize that one of the most sought-after spots to dine around the Asia section of Disney’s Animal Kingdom isn’t always the restaurant with the longest line. So when you walk up to Yak & Yeti Restaurant and find tons of folks already waiting for their reservation with no chance at a walk-up reservation, AND the line is as far as your eyes can see for Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe, you’re not ENTIRELY out of options (depending on when you’re visiting)!
Crowds in Asia
It was tough due to its tricky schedule, but we recently stopped by the little-known Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages quick-service restaurant to see if trying to order a few of our favorites here was any faster. We were pleasantly surprised!
Atmosphere
This is truly a “blink and you’ll miss it” kind of place. It’s pretty elusive because it’s not a restaurant that stays open all day, and you’ll need to be aware of its operating hours to visit unless luck is on your side and it’s open as you pass by.
Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages
When you walk up to the restaurant, you’ll notice right away that it’s mainly just a menu and serving window where the Cast Member will take your order AND present your food to you. They’re pretty quick, too, so we don’t recommend walking away and expecting it to be a while before they’re ready to hand your order over.
All of the seating is outdoors
The plus side here is that there’s plenty of seating as long as it’s not terribly busy. You’ll want to keep in mind that this restaurant shares seating with Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe as well, so if you can plan to eat in the off times that might be less crowded for you.
Seating
There are also self-service utensils, napkins, and condiments nearby that you can grab until your belly is content to accompany your meal.
Condiments cart
Seriously, you’ll forever find us here picking up sauces and more napkins!
Menu
The menu here isn’t as extensive as its sister location just around the corner at Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe, however it does have a few light bites like chicken fried rice, side pork egg rolls, a salad…
Menu
… and a few alcoholic and fountain soda beverage options.
Drinks
There’s one drink here we KNEW we should be after and it’s called the Yak Attack! This gem is a mango daiquiri made with Don Q Cristal Rum and wildberry flavors and will cost you $14 (but spoiler alert: you’ll be begging them to take your money for one of these)!
Yak Attack
This is one of the tastiest alcoholic blended drinks we’ve ever had at Disney World and we’ve tried a TON! The wildberry in the bottom is very tasty and mixes incredibly well with the mango daiquiri. If you let the cherry float long enough in the drink though, you’ll get hints of it in the frozen drink’s taste, too!
So fruity!
This drink is delicious and not one to be overlooked! We loved that this wasn’t just another boring daiquiri and we were content with the cost for what this drink delivered in taste. Do yourself a favor and pick one up on your next visit (you can thank us later for that pro tip)!
Eats
While we knew we were stopping to try out the Yak Attack we had to grab something to snack on while we were here. Naturally, we decided to throw caution to the wind and make it a multi-course meal (you know, in the name of Disney World food research). So to accompany our Yak Attack we also ordered the Side Pork Egg Rolls which come as a serving of 2, a Mini Mango Pie, and a Cookies & Cream Parfait. Doesn’t this look like the lunch of theme park champions? We thought so, too!
We made a meal!
To kick things off after sipping on our chilly frozen daiquiri we decided to put the Side Pork Egg Rolls to the test! These beauties will cost you $8 and look (and taste) exactly as they’re billed.
Side Pork Egg Rolls
Each of the egg rolls has a crispy outer layer that’s not too greasy to turn you off from eating them already, but the surprise with these is just how packed they are with a whole array of FLAVOR on the inside! Once you bite through them they’re so soft, and you could cut them in half with a spoon or fork if you had to. The inside pork and veggies have a light Asian spice and you can tell they’ve been prepared with Asian spices and sauce, however, we did recognize that they could be a little dry for some folks.
Inside the egg rolls
If this is the case for you (or you’re just really looking to knock it out of the park on the flavor intensity), stop by one of the nearby condiment carts to grab some soy sauce to help them out a bit!
We decided to “treat” ourselves to not one but two desserts this visit so we opted to try out the Mini Mango Pie. This pie is a returning FAVORITE of ours which we’ve loved from the very first bite, and they’re still as good as ever. You can grab one for $8.49.
Mini Mango Pie
While the packaging has changed a bit over the years since they were first introduced to us (it was love at first bite, what can we say) the contents are still the same. The mango-flavored gooey pie is so tasty, and we actually preferred keeping ours out in the sun to melt just a little so it gave it a different texture than when it’s first served. The outer crust is more of a crumbled crust that just melts in your mouth with every bite, and now that we’re reminiscing on it we’re so tempted to run right out for another immediately.
As delicious as ever
But, these aren’t exclusive to Disney’s Animal Kingdom! If you find yourself craving one once you’re home you can often find them in your local Kroger or Publix supermarket to get you by until your next visit!
Alright, now that we’ve hit this sugar high we had to try to keep it going. So, last up on our list to try out was the Cookies & Cream Parfait. This treat was made of chilled, layered pudding, whipped cream, and cookie crumbles and cost us $8.49.
Cookies & Cream Parfait
This was another GREAT option for a quick treat that wouldn’t get super messy on a hot day like an ice cream could! It had all the same makings of what you would ideally want in a cookies & cream treat between the layers of chocolate pudding and whipped cream, and when you dug down enough, you could even get to the final cookie crumble at the very bottom!
A spoonful
While we enjoyed it, it wasn’t our favorite. But in fairness, it had some stiff competition going up against our beloved mini mango pie. We could easily see this becoming a popular snack option for parents with little ones looking to treat them.
Overall
To be fair, while this place is tiny, it is mighty in what its small menu offers. It does its job effectively.
All outdoor seating
There are plenty of great options for a snack break, or combine a few like we did to make an entire quick meal.
Nosh or Not?
Make sure to time your next visit here just right if:
- You truly just want to grab a drink and maybe a light bite. The menu here isn’t very extensive at all.
- You want to beat that long line at the other two Yak & Yeti Restaurants. The lines can back up for Yak & Yeti Restaurant and Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe, resulting in a fairly lengthy wait. If you want to get in and out as quickly as possible, this is the best option of the 3!
- You HAVE to have the exclusive alcoholic drinks served here! Remember that INCREDIBLE Yak Attack drink is only served here or at the bar inside Yak & Yeti Restaurant. If you’re not looking to dine inside or have to step into the bar to grab your drink, this is your best option.
Keep breezing past those order window shutters if…
- You’re dying in the heat and NEED to be indoors for your meal. Unfortunately, there’s only covered seating available for this quick-service restaurant. If you’re looking for an indoor meal, this isn’t a restaurant to visit.
- You’re looking for some sharable entrees or snacks. Again, the menu here is really more light bites and small portioned snacks with a few beverage options and not anything more than that.
- You’re not a fan of animals surrounding you and your food while you’re eating. Disney’s Animal Kingdom is an incredible park, but there is true wildlife that surrounds you. While that might not be a bother when you DON’T have food in your hand (or your little one’s hands), that could change on a dime when there’s a hungry bird strolling the area waiting to sneak a bite. They don’t mean any harm, you’ve just made the food look too good to pass up!
We’ve eaten EVERYWHERE at Disney World and reviewed THOUSANDS of drinks, eats, treats, and snacks! Be sure to check out a few of our latest reviews below and stay tuned with us at DFB for more.
REVIEW: There’s a NEW Dole Whip Margarita in Disney World (and You’ll LOVE IT)
Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know
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See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide
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Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools
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Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!
Do you prefer to visit Yak & Yeti Restaurant, Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe, or Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages when you visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom? Tell us all the reasons for your choice in the comments below!
The post REVIEW: You Can Get MANGO PIE in Disney World With NO WAIT first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Summer is right around the corner and you know what that means — some hot months ahead in Disney World.
It’s sunny out there!
Disney World has some pretty hot and muggy summers but that doesn’t mean you have to go unequipped to handle the heat! We found some Amazon essentials that could save you during your next Disney World vacation!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.
These Amazon items could prove VERY useful this summer when you’re visiting Disney World. Let’s take a look!
Cooling Fans
What better way to cool down at Disney World than a cooling fan?
©Amazon
This AMACOOL Stroller Fan is battery-operated, has three speeds, and is rotatable. The best part is you can hook it onto a stroller and not even worry about holding it during a long park day!
A different type of fan you could opt for is the Kbinter Personal Mini Fan.
©Amazon
This handheld fan comes with a rechargeable USB cable, three speeds, is compact, and, most importantly, is designed after Mickey ears! You can also get it in three different colors!
We’re big advocates of neck fans and this is one of our favorites!
©Amazon
The JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan is perfect if you’re looking for a hands-free fan! It is rechargeable, built for comfort, and comes in five different colors.
Cooling Towels
Cooling towels can be life savers during park days or during any strenuous physical activity!
©Amazon
The Sukeen 4-Pack Cooling Towels are soft, breathable, microfiber towels that come in a wide variety of colors. They provide an instant cool and are reusable.
Bucket Hat
Want to beat the heat in style? How about a bucket hat?
©Amazon
This Mickey Mouse Bucket Hat comes in five different styles and three different sizes. This officially licensed red hat is adjustable and is perfect for blocking the sun’s UV rays.
Water Bottle
You should always stay hydrated but it’s extra important when the weather is especially hot.
Owala Water Bottle
The Owala FreeSip Insulated Stainless Steel Water Bottle comes in TONS of different colors and a few different sizes. Sturdy, sleek, and effective, this water bottle is a fantastic park day accessory!
Anti-Chafe Stick
Anti-chafe sticks are essential if you want to avoid a bad time in the Florida humidity.
©Amazon
Head to Amazon for the Megababe Thigh Rescue Anti-Chafe Stick! This anti-chafe stick provides thigh rescue with an aloe, pomegranate, and grapeseed oil recipe. We’re not joking, this friction-free essential can SAVE a vacation!
We’re hoping your summer travels to Disney World are a blast and worry-free! Make sure you check back here at DFB for all the latest Disney World news, tips, merch recommendations, and more!
Find EVEN MORE essentials on our Amazon Storefront!
The post 5 Amazon Essentials to Survive the Heat in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Sure, “Anyone can cook” according to Ratatouille‘s Chef Gusteau… but can anyone cook quite like him?
Gusteau’s To-Go Booth
That’s the question we’re asking as we visit Gusteau’s To-Go — one of six brand new Food Booths at Disney California Adventure that have hit the scene for Disneyland Resort’s Pixar Fest! These new booths join a whole lot of Pixar-inspired fun happening around the Resort, including special character meet-and-greets, dance parties, the Better Together Pixar Pals Celebration Parade, and more!
Let’s see what Chef Gusteau has cooked up for the Fest…
Menu
As an all-new Pixar Fest Booth, Gusteau’s To-Go presents a menu of all-new items inspired by the famed Chef in Pixar’s Ratatouille! Two dishes make up the food menu: Ratatouille Pizzetta and the Gusteau Macaron. They are joined by two cocktails: Le Critique Cognac Sidecar and the Little French Daiquiri.
Booth menu
So, has Chef Gusteau come up with a must-eat menu for Pixar Fest? Grab your fork and knife (and don’t forget to tuck in a cloth napkin) and get ready to find out with us in our review!
Eats
First, we have the Ratatouille Pizzetta for $8. It’s topped with mozzarella, eggplant, squash, zucchini, a drizzle of tomato sauce, and a wedge of French camembert. It’s so fun to see how this dish incorporates the ingredients inspired by Remy’s signature dish!
Ratatouille Pizzetta
Okay, we’re going to be real here — this is just an elevated version of the Lunchables pizza — it’s even served cold. It’s fine, though, although there isn’t anything special about it. The toppings are fresh, although the sauce is pretty basic.
It’s…basic
The “dessert course” here at Gusteau’s To-Go is the Gusteau Macaron, but of course! It costs $7.75. This macaron features a crème brûlée mousse with caramel center and features a charming image of the Chef himself.
Gusteau Macaron
Our reporter isn’t necessarily a huge fan of macarons, but still thinks this is one of the best we’ve had. It’s got that nice chewiness with the perfect combination of crème brûlée and caramel flavor. The center is nice and creamy.
The perfect macaron?
Of course, what meal at Gusteau’s would be complete without a drink or two to pair with it?
Drinks
Two cocktails are featured at Gusteau’s To-Go, and we’re starting with Le Critique Cognac Sidecar, which costs $17. It’s somewhat rare to find cognac featured in a Festival cocktail if our recollection is correct, and this twist on the classic is also made with apricot liqueur, house-made fig syrup, strawberry purée, and lemon juice.
Le Critique Cognac Sidecar
It’s topped with sparkling wine and garnished with a strawberry. So, what do we think Le Critique would have to say about it? Well, we think Le Critique would find it pretty tasty? It’s heavy on the strawberry flavor, which is nice. It also doesn’t taste super strong. This one is a people-pleaser.
Delicious!
Joining the Sidecar is the Little French Daiquiri for $17.00. Rum, French wine aperitif, pear nectar, cherry plum syrup, and lime juice come together in this beverage, which is garnished with a brûléed pear chip. (Ooh la la, it’s FANCY, no??)
Little French Daiquiri
It’s fancy, but flavor-wise, it’s a little bland. It has a light apple flavor and it’s refreshing and easy to drink. But it needs something more.
OVERALL
Overall, we think Chef Gusteau might be slightly appalled that this booth isn’t as good as it could be. Ratatouille on a cold Lunchables-style pizza? It’s not even an original thought, but who knows? Maybe Remy wasn’t around to help make the meals when this menu was decided upon. We will say the Le Critique Cognac Sidecar is worth visiting this booth for, though.
For now, we’re saying “Au revoir!” from Gusteau’s To-Go. But we’ve also checked out FIVE other Pixar Fest Food Booths, and you can find out everything you need to know about ALL the eats at Pixar Fest HERE!
Click HERE to make sure you don’t miss out on any of the FUN at Pixar Fest!
Want to Learn More About Disneyland?
Check Out the Links Below!DFB Disneyland Restaurants Guide
Disney Genie and How to Use it in Disneyland
What You Need to Know About the Theme Park Reservation System for Disneyland and Disney California Adventure
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The post REVIEW: Gusteau’s To-Go Food Booth at Pixar Fest in Disneyland first appeared on the disney food blog.
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While EPCOT may be best known for its selection of food and drinks, it also boasts some pretty thrilling rides including Test Track and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
EPCOT
We have been fans of Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind since it first opened, but today we are answering a question that we hear a lot about the ride!
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind opened in EPCOT in May 2022 and has been thrilling riders ever since. This is a roller-coaster ride that takes you on an intergalactic adventure with the Guardians of the Galaxy. It is one of the longest indoor roller coasters ever built. The ride features rotating vehicles and lots of high-speed adventure.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
If you haven’t had a chance to experience Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind yet, we won’t be spoiling too much of the ride. But, if you don’t want to know anything about the ride, this is your warning. Spoilers that you don’t want to hear may await ahead.
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
While you are strapped into your starjumper, you will be able to enjoy some rocking tunes while you are saving the galaxy. Six different songs play on the ride, but you won’t know which track you will hear until you blast off. The song options are “September,” “Disco Inferno,” “Conga,” “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” “I Ran,” and “One Way or Another.” There is lots of debate regarding which song is the best, but what if you want a certain song? Disney said that you won’t know what song you are getting, but is that just what Disney is claiming? Is there a way to guarantee which song you will get while riding Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? Are the Cast Members choosing the song you get?
Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
While we hate to be the bearer of bad news, you won’t be able to guarantee which song you get. There is really no way to know which song you will be getting or to guarantee you will get a certain song. The Cast Members don’t get to choose the song, no matter how many different buttons they push or how nicely you ask them for a certain song.
Loading Area for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
The ride vehicles run the songs in a loop, but with two different sides for loading and unloading, numerous vehicles running, and the addition and removal of vehicles throughout the day, there is really no knowing which song will play on the vehicle next. We wish we had better news for you, but even when you have gotten “Disco Inferno” three times in a row, there isn’t a way to guarantee you won’t get it again on your next ride. That just means you need to ride it a couple of extra times so you can hear all the songs you want!
Stay tuned to DFB for all your Disney news!
Check out the one thing you must eat at EVERY restaurant in EPCOT!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What is your favorite song on Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? Let us know in the comments!
The post Is There a Way to Guarantee Getting a Certain Song on EPCOT's Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind? We Found Out! first appeared on the disney food blog.
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We’re Disney Food Blog…of course, we’re going to talk about Disney World restaurants all the time.
Food from Lotus Blossom Cafe
If you’ve been following us for a while, you know we have some favorite restaurants, too, including Homecomin’ in Disney Springs, Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. However, did you know that only 10 Disney World restaurants had perfect inspections last month?
So, we do have to put this into perspective. Each Florida county health department runs inspections for restaurants all over the state, including Orange County and Osceola County, the two counties where Disney World resides. Routine inspections are performed to determine if the food and dining environment at Florida restaurants are safe. These inspections generally happen by surprise, meaning the restaurant doesn’t know when it’s going to happen.
The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
According to The Orlando Sentinel, Disney World restaurants were among the 2,509 Florida restaurants inspected throughout the month of April 2024. Of that, 259 Florida restaurants received perfect inspections, including 10 Disney World restaurants.
Walt Disney World
Here are the 10 with perfect scores:
- Dahlia Lounge at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Maya Grill at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Refreshment Outpost at EPCOT
- Lotus Blossom Cafe at EPCOT
- Turtle Shack Pool Bar at Disney’s Old Key West Resort
- Tortuga Tavern at Magic Kingdom
Tortuga Tavern
- The Mara at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
- Paddock Grill at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
- Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
- Grandstand Spirits at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Grandstand Spirits
Note that not EVERY restaurant in Florida is inspected each month, although each restaurant must have a minimum of two inspections per year. Granted, when a restaurant is inspected, most violations found are generally small and easily fixed, but a perfect score is a little rarer to see.
Maya Grill
Stay tuned to DFB for more.
14 Million Reviewers Named the Top 100 Brunch Restaurants, and One Is Coming SOON to Disney World
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think about this news? Let us know in the comments!
The post FULL LIST of Disney World Restaurants With Perfect Inspections in April 2024 first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Watching Happily Ever After in Magic Kingdom is one of our favorite ways to end a day in the parks.
Happily Ever After
It’s a beautiful show that makes us cry nearly every time, and we know a lot of families want to be sure to grab a good spot around half an hour before showtime. Which is why you need to know that as the days get longer, the time for fireworks is about the change!
Currently, Happily Ever After begins at 9:00PM, but starting May 12th, the new start time will be 9:20PM for the foreseeable future.
©Disney
This is because the sun starts to set later and later, and Disney wants to make sure it’s completely dark before the show begins! This way, you can see the projections and the fireworks themselves very clearly.
Beautiful!
This means that you’ll want to secure your spot along Main Street U.S.A. between 8:20PM and 8:50PM if you want to ensure you get the best spot you can.
Happily Ever After
Check out more Magic Kingdom news below!
More Magic Kingdom News!
- DON’T FREAK OUT — Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Just Took a MAJOR Step Towards Opening!
- Why We’re Worried About One MISSING Part of the Haunted Mansion in Disney World
- 3 Disney World Rides Will Be Closed for Refurbishment in May 2024
LAST CALL For Beignets At Magic Kingdom! - REVIEW: Disney Keeps Putting Skittles on Cake
but This Time It Really WORKS!
Stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney World news!
Disney has filed a permit for an opening day attraction in Magic Kingdom!
What’s your favorite part of Happily Ever After? Tell us in the comments!
The post REMINDER: Magic Kingdom Fireworks Times Change SOON! first appeared on the disney food blog.
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There are so many airlines to choose from when planning your Disney World vacation. One popular airline, which is also one of the largest airlines at Orlando International Airport, is Southwest Airlines. We love their checked bag allowance and their special change and cancellation policy. However, we also know the airline has had some struggles recently.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest Airlines has had its fair share of problems, including mass cancellations that occurred in December 2022 and, more recently, delaying over 50% of their flights at the Orlando International Airport on March 9th, 2024. Well, if you have been affected by a Southwest Airlines delay or cancelation, listen up!
According to The Washington Post, Southwest Airlines has recently launched a new compensation fund for fliers. This compensation fund became available on April 16th, 2024, as a result of the December 2022 challenges. The fund is a part of the $140 million settlement with the Transporation Department.
This fund will provide inconvenienced travelers with a $75 Southwest LUV voucher. You will only be able to request this voucher if the issues were within Southwest’s control and you experienced a lengthy delay. On domestic flights, the passenger must have arrived at their final destination at least three hours after the scheduled arrival time. For international flights, it must be at least six hours after the scheduled time. The delay must have been within Southwest Airlines’ control, such as a mechanical problem.
Southwest Airlines at the Orlando Airport
Passengers must go online to submit a request for the voucher within one year of the delayed or canceled flight. Southwest Airlines is planning to respond to requests within 30 days. They are anticipating that this compensation fund will run for three years. Be sure to head online to request your $75 if you have experienced a delay or cancelation that was within Southwest Airlines’ control recently.
Stay tuned to DFB for more travel news!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think of this Southwest voucher? Let us know in the comments!
The post Southwest Airlines Launched a Fund for Flight Disruptions, and They’re Giving Away FREE Vouchers first appeared on the disney food blog.
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There’s nothing quite like sipping coffee as you stroll down Main Street, U.S.A.
Main Street, USA
If you’re fueling up for a long day in the park, you’re going to want to make sure you get your Disney World caffeine fix. And sure, you could head over to Main Street Bakery (aka the Magic Kingdom Starbucks), but the lines there tend to be LONG. So we’re telling you just when to AVOID the Main Street Bakery!
Main Street Bakery is Magic Kingdom’s Starbucks location, and though we love grabbing Starbucks and chilling on the hub grass as much as the next Disney Adult — it’s not always a good time to do it. More often than not, this quick-service spot boasts quite a long line. But, there are a few specific times when you’re gonna want to AVOID Main Street Bakery if you can help it!
At Park Opening
Okay, we realize this one is probably common sense, but given that most folks drink their coffee in the morning — you might want to avoid Main Street Bakery at park opening. We know, we know, you need your coffee! And trust us, we get it. But, banking on getting Starbucks as soon as Magic Kingdom opens means you’ll find yourself waiting in a pretty long line.
The Line at Main Street Bakery in Magic Kingdom!
If you still need your fix in the morning, there are plenty of places to grab some — but more on that later.
When It’s Raining
There’s nothing quite like sipping on a cozy cup of coffee in the rain. And, it can definitely be a little pick-me-up when the rain has put a damper on your day. Heading to Main Street Bakery might be a damper in and of itself, though, as rainy days tend to impact the lines here!
Rainy day at Magic Kingdom
If you ask us, a better way to kill time would be to hop in line for an indoor dark ride, but hey — what do we know? We’re just the experts over here!
Before the Parade
Ah, you’ve had the perfect morning and now you’re ready for an afternoon treat before you settle in and watch the parade. There’s just one problem — you’re not the only one.
Festival of Fantasy
Since the Festival of Fantasy Parade takes place all down Main Street, folks already tend to gather in this area anyway. Then, the smell of those delicious beans just draws people in — even those who might not normally drink coffee in the afternoons! Gotta keep that energy up at the Most Magical Place on Earth.
After Fireworks
You’ll also probably want to avoid Main Street Bakery right after the fireworks when most people are making their way out of the park. Again, you’ll find a higher concentration of people in this area — and even some stopping to get one last drink or treat before their Magic Kingdom day is done!
Beautiful!
Of course, we’re not here to yuck anyone else’s yum. You want that Starbucks before you walk down Main Street, U.S.A.? You go right ahead — we just want to make sure you’re prepared for a bit of a wait! If you don’t feel like missing out on valuable park time while you’re waiting for your coffee, you’ll want to explore some other choices.
But, we’re here to HELP — which means offering you some alternative options instead!
Shaken Espresso
Joffrey’s serves coffee and tea throughout all 4 parks, in Disney Springs, and even at a few resorts! Their Magic Kingdom kiosk, Joffrey’s Revive, is located near Space Mountain in Tomorrowland. There, you’ll find specialty and seasonal sips –– plus a selection of HUGE donuts and other pastries! Of course, you may still encounter a line here — it’s a popular choice for coffee, but we’ve found the line isn’t quite as long as Main Street Bakery most of the time.
Joffrey’s Revive
You can Mobile Order at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe, Tomorrowland Terrace, Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, or Sunshine Tree Terrace — they all sell Joffrey’s brand of hot coffee.
If cold brew is more your speed, Mobile Order at Pinocchio Village Haus or Friar’s Nook. Pinocchio Village Haus offers Joffrey’s hot coffee AND cold brew, while Friar’s Nook serves cold brew! And, Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in Liberty Square serves Joffrey’s hot coffee, but they also offer pre-sweetened iced coffees out of a machine. These are available in mocha or French vanilla flavors!
Joffrey’s
Don’t forget to stay tuned to DFB for the latest news from Disney World and more!
EVERYTHING You Need To Eat at Magic Kingdom in 2024
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
When are you going to Magic Kingdom next? Tell us in the comments.
The post 4 Times To AVOID the Main Street Bakery in Disney World first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Get a peek at the new Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, projected to open in December 2024.
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EPCOT Flower & Garden Festival With Little Ones | planDisney
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See the critically endangered baby addax we welcomed just in time for Mother’s Day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge!
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If you’re always on the lookout for great Disney World deals, you’ve come to the right place!
Cinderella Castle
We’ve got you covered on all kinds of Disney World deals from airfare to lodging — and now there’s a BRAND-NEW deal that was just announced that could save you a bunch of money during an upcoming Disney World summer vacation!
If you are a teacher or educator, YOU qualify for 20% off Disney Springs Resort Area hotels this summer!
Disney Springs
The Disney Springs deal extends to teachers and school support staff and includes B Resort & Spa, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando, Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando, Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace, Hilton Orlando Lake Buena Vista, Holiday Inn Orlando Disney Springs, and Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista.
Drury Plaza Hotel near Disney Springs
Each of these hotels includes the Disney 30-minute Early Theme Park Entry benefit with a valid Disney Theme Park ticket and theme park reservation (as applicable). Multi-day ticket special offers are available, as well.
They also offer complimentary transportation to and from the parks and a Passport to Savings booklet with Disney Springs discounts.
Hilton Orlando Disney Springs ©Disney
The deal is available between May 3rd and August 15th, 2024 for travel between May 27th and September 2nd, 2024.
© DoubleTree Suites by Hilton Orlando – Disney Springs Area
Important to note, some blackout days could apply and rates do not include Resort Service Fees, any daily parking fees, taxes, or gratuities. You can find booking information here.
©Wyndham Garden Lake Buena Vista Disney Springs Resort Area
The proximity to Disney Springs is a major plus (each hotel is within walking distance via a pedestrian sky bridge) and this summer is shaping up to be a big one for Disney World, so we recommend taking advantage of this deal if you can! In the meantime, stay tuned here at DFB for all the latest Disney World news, tips, and more!
Disney Announced 3 NEW Discounts!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Are you a teacher or educator planning on visiting Disney World this summer? Let us know what you’re looking forward to most in the comments below!
The post NEW Disney Springs Hotel Discount Announced first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Downtown Disney has been getting quite a bit of an overhaul, including getting MANY new restaurants (oh, yeah, you know we’re excited).
Paseo
Most recently, three of those new restaurants opened: Paseo, Centrico, and Tiendita, with all three restaurants having menus created by Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytán. Okay, so that has us even MORE stoked. Well, we’ve had a chance to eat at Centrico and Tiendita, but we’re now getting a chance to dine at Paseo.
Atmosphere
Paseo is an authentic Mexican restaurant, so the look inside reflects that, but it also has a modern Californian flare.
Very modern, but Californian vibe
You’ll find the space filled with wood textures, leather, greenery, and native Mexican accents.
Native Mexican accents
It’s also filled with light thanks to all the windows, and very spacious. This is not one of those restaurants where you have to worry about bumping elbows with strangers. The restaurant’s colors range from neutrals to cool oranges and blues.
Cool colors
You’ll find booth seating, as well as tables and chairs available.
Seating
There is also seating available outside.
Outdoor seating
We ate outdoors. Note the rattan straw chairs. You’ll also get cloth napkins and utensils at each place setting.
Our table
Our table overlooked the related Centrico Bar. Outdoor seating provides a pretty nice view of Downtown Disney.
Centrico Bar
So let’s talk about the food!
Eats
Although the food here is decidedly Mexican, the menu is inspired by Mexican food but done with a French culinary style. You’ll find ceviches on the menu, along with seafood, as well as Mexican staples like chile relleno, carne asada, and more.
Menu
The drinks menu includes a variety of cocktails, margaritas, beer, and wine. You can also order non-alcoholic beverages like horchata, sodas, a sweet Hibiscus tea, and more.
Drinks!
We started with a drink called the Maya-tai, which our server recommended. It’s made with dos hombres mezcal, mandarin syrup, avocado pit orgeat, lime juice, angostura orange bitters, salted guava foam for $18. Our reporter doesn’t normally like mezcal, but the server said the same, but thought the drink would be a hit with us — and it was. It almost tastes like a margarita, especially with the sweet guava and salt from the foam. The mezcal is barely noticeable — it just offers a smoky taste at the end. The citrus makes this very refreshing and we like the combo of sweet and salty.
Maya-Tai
For appetizers, we started with the Queso Fundido, made with chorizo & gruyère cheese fondue, wild mushrooms, shallots, garlic, and rosemary and served with roasted masa madre bread for $15. Warning: the madre bread is basically a fancy corn chip. But the dip itself has a light and creamy texture. Plus the flavors blend well, especially when dipping the madre bread into the dip.
Queso fundido
The chorizo has a slight kick to it, but it’s not super spicy. We also got hints of the garlic and rosemary flavors, but they were never overpowering. Same goes for the mushrooms and shallots. This just mostly tasted cheesy and a little spicy, and yes, we love that combo.
Super yummy
We also ordered the Yucatán ceviche, made with hamachi, baby cucumbers, fried plantains, mango habanero geleé, and achiote aguachil for $24. Our reporter is not fond of fish, so was a little worried about the hamachi flavors. However, it didn’t taste too fishy plus the other parts of this added some interesting flavors.
Yucatan Ceviche
The mango habanero geleé adds a nice, sweet, and refreshing, yet slightly spicy, kick to the dish. The dragon fruit under the fish was a nice surprise and added a hint of sweetness to every bite with the fish. The cucumbers had a nice crunch and a nice saltiness that balanced out everything.
Another great starter
For our main entree, we picked the Mama’s Cochinita Pibil made with guerrero-style pork shank, black bean pureé, pickled red onion, habanero salsa, and corn tortillas for $38. This pork was so tender, juicy, and full of flavor. Although it’s served with a steak knife, we didn’t need it — it just fell right off the bone. It was slow-cooked with orange and chili, so you got those hints of sweet and spicy flavors.
Mama’s Cochinita Pibil
The habanero salsa was fresh with just the right amount of mild heat. The black beans in the paste were cooked in fat from the pork, so their flavor blended in with the pork because of that.
SO tender
However, our favorite part of this entree was the corn tortillas. They were warm and fresh and thicker than the kind of tortillas you get in the store. So basically, the tortillas were sort of like corn tortilla bread. We have ZERO complaints.
These tortillas!
Overall, we enjoyed this meal.
Nosh or Not?
You might want to stop by Paseo if…
- You love authentic Mexican-inspired food. Chef Carlos Gaytan created the menu and it certainly features a lot of Mexican staples with great combinations of flavors. If you love Mexican food, you’ll want to eat here.
- You want to enjoy a table service restaurant experience. This restaurant is so chill and we love the vibe. So if you’re wanting to stop for a while and enjoy a meal, here’s your chance. Plus you can sit indoors or outdoors.
- You’re not on a budget. Although this menu is about mid-priced for Downtown Disney, once you add drinks, it could still add up.
Skip Paseo if…
- You don’t like Mexican food or are averse to Mexican spices. The flavors you’ll find here are all inspired by Mexican food and yes, that means that some of the food could be spicier than you would like.
- You want something quick. If you’re just wanting a meal to go, you would probably be better off just picking up some food from Tiendita, which is a counter service spot with a menu also created by Chef Carlos Gaytan.
- You’re on a budget. If you’re looking for cheap, this might not fit into your budget. Fortunately, there are plenty of places in Downtown Disney to eat that cost less.
Overall
Honestly, we can’t fault anything about the meal we had at Paseo. We will warn you that things are a little spicy, but we didn’t think the items we ordered were TOO hot, but we also understand that spiciness is a very subjective thing. However, being able to get authentic Mexican food at a Disney resort is an idea that we love, but we also love that there are now three options, with menus all created by the same chef, that should appeal to just about anyone who’s craving Mexican food.
We’re excited to return to this restaurant to try more at some point, too, so this is not a one-and-done kind of dining experience for us.
Stay tuned to DFB for more.
REVIEW: Can a Michelin-Starred Chef Make GOOD Disney Fast Food? We Found Out!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you tried Paseo yet? What did you think? Let us know in the comments!
The post REVIEW: We Have ZERO Complaints About This NEW Disney Restaurant first appeared on the disney food blog.
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This might be the BEST DAY EVER!
©Disney
We are FINALLY getting to visit The Snuggly Duckling! Our dreams have finally come true. Disney has brought the little restaurant with our favorite ruffians and thugs to life at Fantasy Springs in Tokyo Disney. Fantasy Springs officially opens on June 6th, but we got to drop in to sing about our dreams a little early, and boy are we glad we did! Let’s take a look!
Fantasy Springs has three new lands, and we are currently visiting Rapunzel’s Forest where you’ll find the famed restaurant of our dreams — The Snuggly Duckling!
The Snuggly Duckling
We dropped in to give it a try, and we have to tell you — it’s AMAZING! It’s everything we hoped for and more.
Atmosphere
It was like we stepped foot directly into the movie. It has rustic charm — perfect for those ruffians and thugs who like to visit.
Snuggly Duckling, The details are impeccable, though. Check out this puppet show featuring Pascal and Maximus!
While you might think the hangout looked rather small in the movie, this restaurant is far from it. It can seat up to 620 people!
There’s a beautiful mural of Rapunzel and Maximus that is jaw-dropping.
Snuggly Duckling, Tokyo DisneySea Fantasy Springs
Plus, a piano is set up just in case you want to break into song. But we are wondering if the forest is perhaps starting to take over the restaurant and trying to become with it, based on the trunks that are coming through the wall and ceiling.
Anyone else down for a good ol’ fashioned shanty?
You’ll also find adorable little details that are reminiscent of the movie. Speaking of little details, can you spot Pascal?
Pascal!
There really are neat little gems, no matter where you look!
The Axe!
Honestly, this place is downright adorable.
Menu
Just like the atmosphere, the menu is very interesting!
The Snuggly Duckling Menu
There is a solid roster of items and we got to try that Ducklings Dream Cheeseburger, Fried Shrimp Burger, Rapunzel’s Magical Milk Tea, Duckling Muffin, and Sweets Ever After.
Everything we tried!
Combos/sets come with a side of french fries or a cupped salad. This restaurant serves something akin to standard theme park fare but with a Tokyo DisneySea twist! Because we were invited for a media preview, our treats were complimentary. However, we will include the pricing in our reviews should you choose to visit. Without further ado, let’s talk about the food!
Eats
Let’s dig in! First up, we tried the Ducklings Dream Cheeseburger, which will cost ¥900 (the set costs ¥1,440).
Duckling Dream Cheeseburger
Right off the bat, we were impressed by the packaging, which features a fantasy fast food wrapper with the Snuggly Duckling print. However, the actual burger garnered some complaints.
Super cute!
The burger is served with a beef patty, bologna, tomato, and onion with a burger sauce. Starting with the good, on paper, we liked all the ingredients. The sauce was really good, but there needed to be more of it. The bread was also pretty tasty and yellow (as an homage to ducklings).
They didn’t skimp on the bologna…
With that said, the bologna was way too thick and bites that didn’t have sauce mostly tasted of bologna and tomato. We would personally skip this burger during a return visit to The Snuggly Duckling.
Snuggly duckling burger
Next, we tried the Fried Shrimp Burger, which will cost ¥950 (¥1,490 for the set).
Fried Shrimp Burger
We’re happy to say tasting this shrimp burger was a much better experience! It comes with a tartar-like sauce and coleslaw.
Look at the size of this thing!
The bread was once again delicious and we felt the slaw really cut through the saltiness and fishy flavor of the shrimp.
Great crunch
The burger was very crunchy and, overall, incredibly tasty. Our only complaint was the sauce, which was simply unremarkable. If you’re looking for an interesting take on a seafood burger, give this one a shot!
A very interesting burger
For the drink, we tried Rapunzel’s Magical Milk Tea, which will cost ¥800 when the restaurant opens.
Rapunzel’s Magical Milk Tea
We LOVED this drink! Ours was creamy and sweet (but not too sweet), and the little tapioca-like bits in the drink provided a fun texture and fruity sweetness. We would get this over again and again, so we’re definitely giving this drink a gold star!
This is a MUST-TRY drink!
For dessert, we started with the Duckling Muffin! This muffin will cost ¥600 and comes in a caramel flavor.
Duckling Muffin
This dessert is more like a cupcake than a muffin and we were able to devour it in just a few bites. The cream on top was super light while adding a cool and creamy texture and sweetness to the dense muffin. The muffin itself balanced being crumbly and moist PERFECTLY.
The best part was the ooey-gooey caramel center, which was thick, sticky, and portioned perfectly. The dessert is topped with a cute duckling medallion, which just ties together this flawless treat! Next time we visit, we’re definitely getting this again!
10 out of 10, no notes
Finally, the last dessert we tried was the Sweets Ever After treat!
Sweets Ever After
This dessert will cost ¥700 and is a lemon and strawberry fruit custard dessert.
Pretty!
This pastry is VERY cute and draws you in. As for the taste, we thought it was pretty standard for a fruit custard, which is a good thing. It’s hard to mess up fruit and custard. However, we found the edges of the pastry to be a little bouncy and chewy, and we wanted something crispier, less dense, and without air pockets.
While the fruit, fruit preserves, and custard worked SO well together and created a great flavor profile, we wish the texture was more up to par with other pastries around the park.
The pastry part wasn’t our favorite…
So what did we think of The Snuggly Duckling overall? We have thoughts…
Overall
The Snuggly Duckling mostly delivers. It had some stuff (like Rapunzel’s Magical Milk Tea and the Duckling Muffin) which will be must-haves whenever we visit, and some passes (like the Ducklings Dream Cheeseburger).
The Snuggly Duckling
Overall, we say the food is solid and the atmosphere creates the perfect place to go and “live your dream”!
Nosh or Not?
Run, and race, and dance, and chase, and leap, and bound over to The Snuggly Duckling if…
- You’re craving a simple meal. For the most part, The Snuggly Duckling’s offerings are akin to standard theme park fare, so if you want to try to keep it simple, this could be the spot for you.
- You’re a fan of Tangled! This place is filled to the brim with nods to Tangled and the biggest fans of the film will likely be smiling from ear to ear during a visit.
- You’re in the mood for a light dessert. Both desserts here are tasty and the milk tea is SUBLIME. We think this would be a very suitable spot to grab a snack after a journey on Rapunzel’s Lantern Festival!
Skip on past The Snuggly Duckling if…
- You want a higher quality meal. We weren’t as impressed with the burgers as we would’ve liked, so if you’re looking for something heartier with more flavor, give the Royal Banquet Hall of Arendelle a look!
- You don’t care about Tangled aesthetics. If you don’t care how a restaurant looks and the sole reason for visiting is the food, there are better options scattered throughout Tokyo DisneySea and the Tokyo Disney Resort.
- You need a bigger menu to choose from. The Snuggly Duckling’s entrees are mostly burgers (including a veggie burger), and even if you’re a fan of the burgers we tried, the menu is slightly limited. To learn more about Fantasy Springs restaurants, click the link below!
CLICK HERE to read more about Fantasy Springs Restaurants!
And there you have it! If you visit The Snuggly Duckling when it opens, be sure to let us know your reviews!
We’re so excited to keep bringing you Fantasy Springs news! Stay tuned to DFB for more details!
FIRST LOOK: Inside the NEW Fantasy Springs Hotel at Tokyo DisneySea
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
How excited are you to finally visit The Snuggly Duckling? Tell us in the comments!
Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by Tokyo Disney to attend their media preview of Fantasy Springs. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ
The post REVIEW: Come Check Out Disney's NEW Snuggly Duckling Restaurant With Us! first appeared on the disney food blog.
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If there’s ONE accessory we recommend you bring to Disney World, it’s a water bottle!
Water bottles for days!
Water bottles can be an absolute lifesaver in the parks, especially in the summer. Sure, you can get free cups of ice water at quick service restaurants, but you don’t want to keep stopping to get those when you can just fill up your bottle and go! That’s why we’re rounding up our picks for the BEST water bottles for Disney World. Let’s dive in.
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.Now, we found these after scrolling and scrolling through Amazon. They all have 5 star reviews from thousands of people and should keep your water cool while your in the parks.
Hydro Flask
©Amazon
Of course, one of the most popular water bottle options we see in the parks is the Hydro Flask, which comes in a massive insulated 32oz size — perfect for keeping lots of ice water nice and chilled. It has a carrying loop and it’s covered in a slip-free material that doesn’t sweat.
CLICK HERE FOR THE HYDRO FLASK!
Nature Pineor Water Bottle
©Amazon
Another great option is this Nature Pioneor water bottle that comes with its own carrier, reusable straw, and swappable lids! It can be super annoying to just hold your water bottle all day, so the sling that you throw over your shoulder would be very useful in the parks. And the price on this one is quite shocking!!
Kids Water Bottle
©Amazon
The Bottle Bottle 160z sports water bottle comes with both a regular lid and a hidden pill holder. This would be perfect for kids, sports practice, or a trip to the parks. It comes in several fun colors as well!
CLICK HERE TO SNAG THE BOTTLE!
Simple Modern Water Bottle
©Amazon
Another favorite for Disney fans is the Simple Modern line from Amazon! These bottles come in a variety of patterns, including this fun Mickey Mouse design. The kid-sized water bottle is great for your little ones, as it stores 14oz at a time.
GET THE SIMPLE MODERN BOTTLE HERE!
Owala FreeSip
Owala Water Bottle
Owala water bottles are going to be pretty popular this summer, so go ahead and jump on the trend now! Their FreeSip design stores 40oz and comes in a variety of colors. This is our personal go-to option in the parks. It is slim, keeps our water cool, and we love all of the color options! We also love getting signed by characters!
Owala Water Bottle
SNAG THE OWALA ON AMAZON HERE!
That’s a wrap on our list of water bottles for Disney World! Stay tuned to DFB for more updates ahead of your vacation.
Click Here to Shop More Disney Merchandise on Amazon!
The post We Found the Best Water Bottles for Disney World After *HOURS* of Scrolling Through Amazon Reviews first appeared on the disney food blog.
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We just found your new favorite Disney World water bottle!
Target
We find cute new Disney products at Target all the time — both in-person and online. What makes it even better is when those cute things are actually super useful, too! Since staying hydrated is SUPER important at Disney World, a water bottle is 100% essential for your upcoming trip. If you want to stay on the Disney theme, you should check out these cute character-inspired water bottles that you can get right now online!
DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission.We found water bottles online at Target that are themed to Mickey, Minnie, Chewbacca, and Baby Yoda! The bottles themselves are pretty plain, but they come with these coolers that are designed to look like the characters. The coolers have carry straps, which make the bottles super convenient to carry around Disney World.
Get the Mickey Mouse Water Bottle
©Target
You can’t go wrong with a classic! This 24-ounce stainless steel bottle comes with an insulated cooler tote that is designed to look like Mickey’s shorts!
©Target
The tote has a comfy carry strap on it. It can hold your other water bottles, too, if they’re between 20 and 32 ounces.
Get the Minnie Mouse Water Bottle
©Target
If there’s one for Mickey, there’s gotta be one for Minnie too, right? This one has Minnie’s iconic polka dots, along with her bow on top.
©Target
This tote also comes with the 24 ounce stainless steel bottle, but of course you can swap it out for your own bottle if it’s between 20 and 32 ounces.
Get the Chewbacca Water Bottle
©Target
This one’s for the Star Wars fans! The Chewbacca Bottle Cooler seems like it must be extra insulated because it’s covered in fur, just like the Wookie. The carry strap even looks like Chewy’s bandolier!
Get the Baby Yoda Water Bottle
©Target
If you loved the Mandalorian Disney+ show, this Grogu Bottle Cooler is perfect for you. Baby Yoda is featured on the tote, holding a little frog snack. The water bottle that comes with it has the Star Wars logo and a galaxy design on it.
Looking for more Disney-themed water bottles? Check out these two that we found on Amazon!Get the Kids’ Star Wars Water Bottle
©Amazon
If you’re looking for a kid-sized bottle for your little ones, check out this Star Wars one by Simple Modern! It has double wall insulation, is leakproof when the nozzle is closed, and is cupholder-friendly.
Get the Boba Fett Owala Water Bottle
©Amazon
I LOVE my Owala water bottle, and I was so excited to learn that they have Star Wars-themed designs! This one is inspired by the bounty hunter Boba Fett.
Owala bottles have this cool FreeSip feature that allows you to either sip your drink through a straw or tilt it back for a bigger gulp. The lid locks into place, too, so it’s leakproof.
Keep following DFB for more updates on the newest Disney merch!
Check out our DFB Amazon storefront to see some of our favorite Disney essentials!
The post Target Has 4 NEW Disney Water Bottles ONLINE first appeared on the disney food blog.
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If you are a fan of All-Star Movies Resort, we have some good and bad news for you. The good news is that one of the amenities will be getting a refresh, but the bad news is that means it will need to suspend some operations for a bit.
All-Star Movies
All-Star Movies Resort is a value resort located at Walt Disney World, that is perfect if you are looking for a more inexpensive hotel option with many of the great perks that Disney World hotel guests get. It is part of a trio of All-Star Resorts which also includes All-Star Sports and All-Star Music.
Disney World is constantly refurbishing and renovating areas throughout the resort, and now All-Star Movies will be getting a little bit of love. From July 1st through July 31st, the World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort will be undergoing a refurbishment. While the dining area will be receiving a facelift, guests will still be able to take advantage of the food offered by the food court.
World Premiere Food Court
During this time, guests may utilize the My Disney Experience app to order food and drinks with their mobile device. The mobile order menu will only offer select items during the refurbishment, though. While the menu may be limited, we are glad that guests of All-Star Movies will still have an option to get food from the resort.
All-Star Movies
If you are staying at All-Star Movies during the month of July, this is definitely an important refurbishment to note. As well, we wanted to remind you that the Fantasia Pool at All-Star Movies will be undergoing routine maintenance from January 2025 through April 2025. During this time, guests can use the Duck Pond Pool at All-Star Movies, but also be aware that there may be construction noise during the day at All-Star Movies.
We are always keeping our eyes and ears open for refurbishments and closures, so you are always prepared for your Disney World trip. Make sure to stay tuned to DFB for more Disney World updates!
All-Star Movies or Pop Century? Read more about this value resort debate here!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you stayed at All-Star Movies before? Let us know about your experience in the comments!
The post NEWS: A Disney World Hotel Restaurant Is Undergoing Refurbishment SOON! first appeared on the disney food blog.
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We’re having the time of our lives in Tokyo Disney, and we can’t believe we’re getting a special look at Fantasy Springs before it opens to the public in June!
Peter Pan’s Never Land Adventure
Not only did we get to ride the new attractions Disney has created, but we’re also getting a look at some of the special merchandise guests will be able to purchase in this new land. And this new popcorn bucket has our jaws on the FLOOR!
Peter Pan fans will be really jealous of this new Big Ben Peter Pan Popcorn Bucket! While one side shows the iconic Big Ben clock in London…
Peter Pan Popcorn Bucket
…one of the other sides shows Peter, Wendy, Michael, and John flying through the night sky to Neverland!
So cute!
And on the other side? Captain Hook and Smee are on the lookout for Peter Pan while aboard the Jolly Roger.
What’s a story without the villains?
Don’t worry, Tinker Bell hasn’t been left behind — she’s on the strap!
Hey, Tink!
We’re still checking out everything Fantasy Springs has to offer, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB!
Check out our FULL ride through of the new Frozen ride — which might be Disney’s best ride EVER!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think of everything you’ve seen from Fantasy Springs so far? Tell us in the comments!
The post PHOTOS: We're OBSESSED With This Peter Pan Popcorn Bucket! first appeared on the disney food blog.
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Throughout the year, there are events where Disney makes some pretty big announcements.
©Disney
Of course, we get TONS of announcements from events like the D23 Ultimate Fan Event. We also generally get some announcements when Disney hosts its quarterly earnings calls. However, a BIG event is coming up soon where we could learn a LOT more about Disney movies, television shows, and more SOON.
On May 14th, The Walt Disney Company will have its annual Upfront presentation at the North Javits Center in New York City. An upfront is a star-studded presentation to advertisers by major television networks and streamers, basically giving advertisers a reason to invest their money in the company. As you can expect, that means BIG announcements are generally made during these presentations.
©Disney
This year’s Upfront presentation “showcase everything from Jimmy Kimmel’s return to the Disney Upfront stage following his successful stint as Oscar host, to a trove of announcements around some of Disney’s most popular series and franchises, in addition to new content and verticals.” So we can expect to learn a LOT more about Disney’s upcoming movies, TV shows, and more.
So why should advertisers be paying attention? According to Rita Ferro, Disney’s President of Global Advertising, “We have the best storytelling and brands in the world when it comes to entertainment and sports. And we have really invested, over the last decade, in technology that differentiates us from all of our traditional competitors. So, when I think across the marketplace, no one has the advertising technology and the data stack that we have built over the course of that period.”
©Disney
Disney also has some major focuses when it comes to advertising right now. Ferro said, “We’re focused on driving growth and scale around the pillars that [Disney CEO Bob Iger] has laid out for us.” She also mentioned a continued focus on sports growth and how Disney’s linear shows on streaming are reaching its audiences.
©Disney
So what can advertisers expect from this year’s Upfront presentation? Ferro stressed how Disney is not just a storytelling company, but also a technology company. The presentation will focus on the importance of creativity “as a differentiator and unifier.” Ferro called Disney’s storytelling and quality content “incomparable” to what other companies are offering.
So what does that mean for you? Well, it means you’re about to learn more about Disney’s upcoming movies and TV shows. It’s likely some new trailers might be released, as well as new announcements made about projects we’re not aware of yet.
We know we’ll certainly be paying attention to the presentation, and you should, too. Stay tuned to DFB to stay updated!
Disney’s Gotta Make Some Big Announcements, and They’re Promising to Do it This August
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
What do you think Disney might announce during its Upfront presentation? Let us know in the comments!
The post Why Every Disney Fan Will Be Glued to Their Screen on May 14th first appeared on the disney food blog.
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For the first time since 2019, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse brought the magic of Disneyland Resort directly to patients and their families at CHOC with the return of inpatient room visits.
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It’s no secret that some of the best restaurants in Disney World are NOT in the parks!
The Polynesian Village Resort
There are several restaurants run by James Beard Award-winning chefs in Disney Springs, and many of the dining locations at the hotels are absolutely spectacular. Recently, I got the chance to visit one of those beloved Disney World hotel restaurants, but not for the meal you’d think! And now, I’m bringing you my full review.
Atmosphere
Not too long ago, I stopped by Kona Cafe at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! This spot is beloved by many for its breakfast menu, filled with the likes of Tonga Toast and Macadamia Nut Pancakes…but I wasn’t there for that. Nope, we’re heading to Kona Cafe for LUNCH!
Kona Cafe
The restaurant is located on the second floor of the Polynesian’s Grand Ceremonial House, right next door to ‘Ohana. Lunch is served daily from 11:30AM to 2PM.
Inside the restaurant
A few years ago, Kona Cafe got a big makeover to modernize it a bit. You’ll notice bright colors, wood accents, and tropical details all around the restaurant. Windows along one wall add some natural light to the dining space.
The dining area
I found that Kona Cafe wasn’t particularly busy during the lunch shift, and reservations were fairly easy to get. Let’s see if the food is worth visiting for!
Menu
Taking a look at the menu, Kona Cafe offers three lunch appetizers — pot stickers, glazed chicken wings, and a new seasonal soup. The menu is filled with a variety of Asian-inspired eats, including sushi rolls, Poke’ Bowls, and Dashi Bowls.
Menu
Main entrees include stir fry options, a Teriyaki Steak Salad, and a NEW Hawaiian Reuben. They also offer a Big Kahuna Burger and a Turkey Banh Mi for sandwich lovers.
If you’d like dessert, Kona Cafe serves a Pineapple-Coconut Bread Pudding, a Molten Chocolate Cake, a Passion Fruit Layer Cake, and a no-sugar-added Pineapple Haupia Cake.
©Disney
And of course, there are a number of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available to pair with your meal.
Drink Menu
Now that we’ve covered the menu, let’s see what the eats look like!
Eats
I ordered a couple of the new items on the menu, as well as some Kona Cafe classics!
Full Spread
My meal started out with a complimentary bread service! Here, they bring out Pineapple Rolls served with butter. They were a smidge tough on the outside, but still very soft on the inside.
Pineapple Rolls
The pineapple flavor here was very mild, and I honestly wish there was more of it overall. They were delicious with the butter spread on top, but what bread isn’t? I think these were fine, but definitely not top of the bread service list in Disney World.
More pineapple, please!
For my beverage, I chose the Keiki Lemonade, made with Odwalla Lemonade, pineapple, passion fruit, and citrus. It’s available for $5.99.
Keiki Lemonade
I thought this was spectacular! I could taste the pineapple and citrus flavors even more than the lemonade, as you get the lemon flavor toward the end. It’s definitely sweet, but not so sweet that I couldn’t drink the whole cup. Overall, very refreshing and fruity — probably my new favorite Disney World table service mocktail!
Honestly LOVED this!
For my appetizer, I ordered a new item — the Seasonal Soup for $9. During my visit, the option available was Miso Soup.
Miso Soup
It was filled with tofu chunks, seaweed, green onions, and rich dashi stock. I thought it was nice and savory, and the green onions gave it a good sharpness. The tofu chunks were soft and mild, but added a chewy textural element. The seaweed helped vary the flavors even further with some earthiness and it all blended together really well. I would order this again!
Lots of great flavors and textures.
If you’re a sushi person, then Kona Cafe is a great stop for lunch or dinner! I got the Hamachi Tuna Roll, which is made with hamachi, tuna, avocado, jalapeño, cilantro, and ponzu. You can snag it for $21.
Hamachi Tuna Roll
This was very fresh and bright with the tuna and avocado. The tuna had a rich ocean flavor without being too “fishy” and the jalapeño added a slight spice on the tip of my tongue. It’s mostly fresh, bright, and green-tasting — perfect for spring!
SUSHIII
The Hawaiian Reuben is one of the new items on the menu here, and it’s made with corned beef, pulled pork, kimchi, swiss cheese, marble rye, and spicy mayonnaise. It’s served with seasoned fries on the side and is available for $20.
Hawaiian Reuben
This was an EXCELLENT tropical twist on a Reuben! There’s a decent amount of meat and it’s very rich in flavor with a mild cheese. The kimchi adds a good crunch and the spicy mayo has a slow heat that builds on your tongue after you take a bite. All of the elements work well together, and I would totally recommend it for Reuben or sandwich fans.
Also, I just have to tell you that these are the BEST fries I’ve eaten in Disney World! They were crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and spectacularly seasoned with salt, paprika, and a touch of sugar. WOW.
They did this mashup really well!
Last but not least, I wrapped up my meal with the Molten Chocolate Cake. This is $10 and made with Valrhona Espresso ganache, Kona Coffee ganache, and caramel latte anglaise.
Molten Chocolate Cake
It was VERY soft and gooey in the middle, and had a deep, rich chocolatey flavor that was more dark than milk. It’s a smaller portion, but it would likely be overwhelming in a larger size, so I didn’t mind too much. I would place it a step above a regular chocolate lava cake — very delicious, but not the top thing I ate during my meal.
YUM
So how does Kona Cafe stack up?
Overall
Ultimately, I was more impressed with Kona Cafe than I expected! The Hawaiian Reuben (especially with those fries!) and the Hamachi Tuna Roll were the standouts for me, but I would also go back just to have that Keiki Lemonade again.
There were some really great dishes here.
I was only slightly underwhelmed by the pineapple rolls, and I would order the Miso Soup or the chocolate cake again. If you’ve only been going to Kona for breakfast, you might be missing out!
Nosh or Not?
Make a stop at Kona Cafe midday if…
- You’re a fan of sushi and Asian eats. Most of the menu here is Asian-inspired, so if that’s your jam, you might really enjoy it! They’re also one of the few spots in Disney World that serves sushi.
- You want a more low-key meal at the Polynesian. Other dining options at the Polynesian Village Resort, like ‘Ohana and Trader Sam’s, are a bit more over-the-top. Kona is a much more chill and relaxing meal.
- You’ve only been there for breakfast. If you’ve been to Kona for breakfast before and you haven’t tried lunch, now is the time! I was seriously impressed with some of the eats.
Try a different spot for lunch if…
- You’re in a hurry. As a sit-down restaurant, this likely won’t be the fastest meal during your trip. If you’re on a time crunch, I might not recommend it.
- You won’t be near the Polynesian Village Resort. This is a great stop if you’re staying on the Monorail loop or visiting Magic Kingdom, but if you’re out of the way, I would save this for a time when you’re already planning on being in the area.
- You don’t like Asian food. This isn’t exactly the best recommendation for a picky eater, so I would skip it if you don’t like Asian eats.
Would you go to Kona Cafe for lunch?
Thanks for coming along on my trip to Kona Cafe! Stay tuned to DFB for more restaurant reviews from around Disney World!
The Best (and Worst) Disney World Hotel Restaurants — Click Here!
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WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Have you ever been to Kona Cafe for lunch? Let us know in the comments!
The post REVIEW: Is This Disney World Hotel Restaurant Worth Leaving the Parks for Lunch? first appeared on the disney food blog.
Will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Have an Individual Lightning Lane When It Opens in Disney World?
in Disney Food/Restaurants
Posted
The NEW Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride is opening SOON in Disney World! Although we know it’ll open this summer, we’re still waiting for an official opening date (ahem…Disney, whenever you’re ready), but here’s the real question: Once the ride opens, how will you get on it?
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Magic Kingdom
Some rides at Disney World use virtual queues instead of standby lines, some offer Lightning Lanes with Genie+, others have Individual Lightning Lanes, and still more have just standby queues with no option to skip the line at all. It’s fair to say that getting on certain Disney World rides is COMPLICATED. So what will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure use? Standby line or virtual queue? Genie+, Individual Lightning Lane, or no skip-the-line option at all? Here’s what we know so far and what we’re predicting for when it opens.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is not really a brand-new ride. Instead, it’s a complete re-theme of the old Splash Mountain ride. So, we can speculate about what will happen when Tiana’s opens based on what usually happens with new rides combined with what Splash Mountain used to have back in the day (and by “back in the day” we mean…like a year and a half ago
).
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure construction
First, let me give you a quick overview of the new ride so that you know what we’re dealing with here (and whether or not you want to ride it in the first place!). Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is opening this summer (2024) in Disney World. The Splash Mountain ride has been closed for about a year and a half now for the refurbishment.
The storyline of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure takes place just after the movie The Princess and the Frog. Tiana has made her dream come true by opening a restaurant, and now she wants to say thank you to her community of supporters by hosting a big Mardi Gras party. But OH NO — she realizes she’s missing a key ingredient for the event and needs your help to find it!
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure Concept Art ©Disney
Guests join Tiana on an adventure through the bayou, where they’ll encounter familiar characters like Louis the alligator, Prince Naveen, Mama Odie, Eudora (Tiana’s mom), Charlotte, “Big Daddy,” the King and Queen of Maldonia, and Naveen’s younger brother, Prince Ralphie.
©Disney Tiana’s Bayou Adventure concept art
There are also going to be some NEW characters, including a band of musical critters.
©Disney
Of course there has to be some great music on the ride if it’s going to live up to the music in the film. The ride will feature a mix of songs from the movie and original music. One of the features that we’re MOST excited to experience is actually in the queue because Disney has promised that the smell of fresh beignets is going to be pumped into the queue as a nod to New Orleans and Tiana’s signature dish.
Queue
So are you convinced that you need to try out this new ride? Alright, good deal. Now, let’s talk about how you’ll get on it.
Virtual Queue or Standby Line?
There are only a couple of rides in Disney World that are currently using a virtual queue in place of a standby line: TRON Lightycycle / Run and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. To get on those rides, you CAN’T wait in a normal, standby line. Instead, you must join the virtual queue on the app and wait to be called back when it’s your turn to ride.
To learn HOW to join a virtual queue in Disney World, click HERE.
Most new rides and attractions use a virtual queue when they first open in Disney World. Even the walk-through attraction Journey of Water — Inspired by Moana used a virtual queue for a couple of days once it opened in EPCOT. For that reason, we’re expecting Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to use a virtual queue for at least a little while when it opens.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
It’s possible that the virtual queue won’t last very long (it could even just be for the first week or so), but how long it lasts will likely depend on guest demand. Disney utilizes virtual queues to keep the wait time lower (so you’re not stuck waiting in a 5-hour line), but if not too many guests are joining the virtual queue, they might move it over to a standby line sooner rather than later.
If you’re going to Disney World within the first couple of weeks of the ride opening, though, you can probably expect to use a virtual queue to get on.
Individual Lightning Lane or Genie+?
So here’s the more complicated question: Will Tiana’s Bayou Adventure be part of Genie+ or have an a la carte Lightning Lane?
There are two different ways to skip the standby lines in Disney World. Lots of rides are part of Genie+, which you can purchase as a feature for any of the parks on the day of your visit. Using Genie+, you can reserve Lightning Lanes throughout the day, which means you’ll get to skip the standby lines.
Lightning Lane at Expedition Everest
Some of the most popular rides in Disney World, however, are NOT part of Genie+. Instead, their Lightning Lanes are available for purchase a la carte. You don’t have to buy Genie+ to buy Individual Lightning Lanes, and you don’t have to buy Individual Lightning Lanes to buy Genie+ — you can get either one, both, or neither.
Here are the rides that have Individual Lightning Lanes in Disney World:
You can buy Individual Lightning Lanes for up to two attractions per day. If you’re staying at a Disney World hotel or at the Swan and Dolphin or Shades of Green Resort, you can buy Individual Lightning Lanes starting at 7AM on the day of your visit. Everyone else can start buying Individual Lightning Lanes at the park opening time.
To learn how to use Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes, click HERE.
There are a couple of reasons why the “Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lane” question for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is more complicated than the virtual queue dilemma. One is that Splash Mountian was part of Genie+ — it didn’t have an a la carte Lightning Lane. It’s possible that will mean that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will be part of Genie+, too.
Splash Mountain Lightning Lane
Another complication is that guests are limited to only TWO Individual Lightning Lanes per day, and there are already two rides with Individual Lightning Lanes in Magic Kingdom: Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and TRON Lightcycle / Run. If there are suddenly three options and the rule of only two per guest stands, then you’ll have to pick between the three and use either the standby line or virtual queue for the other one.
TRON Lightcycle / Run
So one option is that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure will just be part of Genie+ when it opens, which would be a little bit surprising considering we’re expecting this to be a really popular ride and most of the popular rides have a la carte Lightning Lanes. However, this fits better into what previously happened with Genie+ in Magic Kingdom since Splash Mountain was part of Genie+.
The other option is that Tiana’s Bayou Adventure has an Individual Lightning Lane, in which case Disney might make Seven Dwarfs Mine Train part of Genie+, or just have three Individual Lightning Lanes in Magic Kingdom.
©Disney
We’ll be there on the opening day of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure to bring you all the details and info you need to get on the ride ASAP. Stay tuned to DFB for all the updates!
Click here to learn more about the new Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride!
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The post Will Tiana's Bayou Adventure Have an Individual Lightning Lane When It Opens in Disney World? first appeared on the disney food blog.
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