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Let me just say, climbing into that limo, pulling down the harness, and being launched into a world of Muppets was seriously a dream come true. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets is opening in Hollywood Studios on May 26th, and previews are currently happening for Annual Passholders. Let’s ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster! During our first ride through, we were pretty blown away. Yes, we loved the Aerosmith version with all of our hearts, but can you imagine Hollywood Studios without The Muppets? No way! Now that it’s getting close to opening, we’re sharing what really surprised us during our ride. There might be a few spoilers up ahead, so read at your own risk! There are SO many Muppet easter eggs PizzeRizzo will always remain in my heart I highly recommend you brush up on your Muppet movies before heading to the ride if you want to catch all of the details. Of course, you can just enjoy the attraction, but there’s something about recognizing all the movie props that makes everything feel so special. There are lots of references to The Muppet Movie, which is also when Electric Mayhem shows off their true chaos, so it’s perfect. TONS of Muppet*Vision references So many Gonzo props In addition to the movies and TV shows, there are also some references to our beloved Muppet*Vision that we said farewell to in Hollywood Studios. Let’s just say, you might only have a minute and a half! Seriously, it was super cute to see all of the references, and they made us smile (and cry a little). There’s also a wild amount of throwbacks to PizzeRizzo, the Muppet restaurant that also closed in Hollywood Studios, which was also one of my favorite places. Glad it will live forever, but I want my pizza back! Even Aerosmith references made it in! It’s time to start the show! Of course, if you’re going to add all the other easter eggs, you need to reference Aerosmith, too! I mean, who doesn’t want some VIP passes? When one ride closes, you always have to make sure it continues to be represented, so even though the Muppets moved in, we’ll always remember the original owners of G-Force Records. The music was pretty quiet Climb in! We were so excited to hear the tracklist, but we’re going to warn you, you might need to stop screaming for a second to hear it. It’s very quiet, unlike Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which you can hear pretty clearly. It will take us a few rides to get all the songs, but don’t forget to listen for a second before you continue screaming. The animatronics looked awesome Scooter running the show Scooter was so cute, y’all. Seriously, I wish I could sit next to him in the recording booth. He looked just like a real puppet (and even had the stick that the Muppets are controlled with — well, they’re real to us, but you get it). The penguins sitting at the soundboard looked pretty great, too. You can see the indoor scenes really well One night only Oh, what a fresh layer of neon paint can do. We could see all the characters and signs easily inside the ride, even though you race by them. We saw Sweetums and Gonzo, and you could totally tell what you were looking at. Everything was nice and bright, and we really enjoyed being able to see it so clearly. You ZOOM by Statler and Waldorf Unloading station The two animtronics that you’ll see outside the preshow are going to be on the left as you pull into the loading station. Keep in mind that you roll by them really fast, so if you want to hear their jokes and see them still bolted to their seats, look left and be prepared. We wish we had a little bit more time to enjoy them, but they’re still a nice addition. We enjoyed it just as much Outdoor queue We know it’s not Aerosmith, which most guests loved for a very long time, but we really liked it — like a lot. No, it’s not the same, but come on, it’s The Muppets who deserve their time to shine. You can tell a lot of effort was made on the ride, but in ways, it feels almost identical to its previous version, since it’s just a ride overlay, but you can tell the Muppets left an impression. If we can’t have Muppet*Vision, I’m glad to not lose everything Muppets! We are just so excited to ride it again (and again, and again), and it’s kinda all we’ve been thinking of since we rode. It will officially open to the public on May 26th, so if you’re ready to rock and roll all night, you know where to go. Make sure you keep following Disney Food Blog for more tips and tricks you need to know before your next Disney World vacation. JUST REVEALED: NEW MERCH COMING TO ROCK ‘N’ ROLLER COASTER STARRING THE MUPPETS AT HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you excited to ride the attraction? Tell us your thoughts in the comments. View the full article
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If you thought Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets was just a high-speed thrill, think again. The volume is being turned waaaay way up for Muppet fans (and for fans of going zero to 60 in 3 seconds) as you race across town to the biggest, loudest, most psychedelic The Electric Mayhem concert of your life. But, my groovy friends, it’s not just about the destination… It’s also about the journey to get there. The reimagined G-Force Records building at the end of Sunset Boulevard is less like a line and more like backstage access to The Muppets’ greatest hits. From the moment you step into G-Force Records (now under the new management of Muppet real estate tycoon, J.P. Grosse), you’re surrounded by Muppets memorabilia, props, visual gags, and more — and of course, The Muppets themselves. Blink-and-you’ll-miss-it references are layered with Muppet nods at every turn, showing the care and dedication that Walt Disney Imagineering put into curating everything (with help from…checks notes Yolanda the Rat). And yes, many items from Muppet*Vision 3D have made it inside, Even if you don’t have backstage passes, here’s a VIP look at some of the Easter eggs you’ll find along the way to the concert. Gallery Case Room Upon entering G-Force Records, you’re treated to an in-progress gallery case, lovingly curated by Yolanda the Rat. Who else would you trust with curating iconic pieces? A moi-focused tribute to Miss Piggy featuring one of her iconic looks, a pink and green polka dot dress with a matching hat. The Muppets Studios recently donated Kermit’s original banjo, of “The Rainbow Connection” fame, to the Walt Disney Archives. While the original banjo is safely tucked away, Imagineers recreated it for display. And it wouldn’t be G-Force Records without a nod to those who rock the loudest, The Electric Mayhem. Both Floyd and Janice’s guitars on display are originals from The Muppet Show. The Alley With your VIP passes, head out into the alley where your rockin’ L.I.M.O. (Lengthy Immediate Motion Object) awaits. Along the way, be sure to stop and take in the sights (and dozens of easter eggs). You’ll find not one, but multiple props transported from Muppet*Vision 3D, including some of the shipping crates from the building. And for those who are fans of cranky old geezers, Statler and Wardolf’s chairs from the theater balcony are also inside. Always one to dance to the beat of his own drum, Gonzo started a new adventure, Gonzo’s Stunt School – Hollywood. You know it’s him because “The Great Gonzo” banner from the pre-show is nestled nearby, along with his stunt airplane. And when it’s time to shoot Gonzo out of a cannon, he’s got the one from Muppet*Vision that the penguins used to aim at Swedish Chef. For those looking for the dough, pizza boxes from the Hollywood institution PizzeRizzo are nearby. Bonus! The Mona Lisa from Mama Melrose has also found its way to the alley. Across the alley, The Squeakeasy shows that it was established in 1936, the same year that Jim Henson was born. There are also nearby fliers suggesting that someone has lost a bunny, because Bean Bunny ran away. There’s also laundry strung up outside the fire escape, featuring Fozzie’s bowtie, a PizzeRizzo apron, and a tour shirt for The Electric Mayhem. One of the biggest easter eggs, literally, is the “blast off” billboard advertising Pop Off. Fozzie once hid his Studebaker here in The Muppet Movie. Muppet Labs Parking Garage Bunsen and Beaker have been busy working in the Muppet Labs Automotive Division, so of course, they have some vehicles lying around. For those in need of a fast, small ride, the Interpol Car from Muppets Most Wanted has found a home in the parking garage. And if you really want to take Muppets Labs on the road, the fan-favorite Muppet Mobile Labs, which has been spotted in both EPCOT, Disney California Adventure, and Hong Kong Disneyland, is situated nearby. On the Hollywood 101 Freeway Your ride has arrived in style. When you’re not scream-singing the lyrics to the rockin’ music onboard, try to keep your eyes peeled for the Muppet sights. Whiz past World Wide Studios, the world-famous movie studio seen in The Muppet Movie. Is that…is that Rat Pizza? Yes, it is. The PizzeRizzo sign has found a new home alongside the 101. You might also spot a Waldo crossing, a loving nod to the Spirit of 3D. And of course, you can’t keep moving right along without an Obligatory Easter Egg. Backstage at the Concert Rock on! As you coast to a stop, there are two people who refuse to rock on: Statler and Waldorf. Your eyes do not deceive you, that really is Statler and Waldorf, and that really is the Statler and Waldorf from Muppet*Vision 3D. Another thing brought over is the tribute to Jim Henson that used to hang in the rafters in the pre-show. Now, the portrait of Jim Henson as a Muppet hangs over the edit end of the ride. We hope you enjoy your rockin’, rollin’, totally groovalicious ride with The Muppets – and that you discover a funky new Muppet detail every time you visit! The Electric Mayhem Arrives at Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster READ MORE Rock Out in Style with Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Merch READ MORE Disney Eats: FØØD by Swedish Chef Menu Reveal, Opening May 26 READ MORE The post Look Here: Muppet Easter Eggs and Nods at Rock ’n’ Roller Coaster appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article
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It’s a HUGE day over in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and we’ve been bouncing on our toes all day with excitement! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Cast Member previews are currently ongoing for Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets, and that means we JUST got a chance to ride the new version of the attraction, and we’ve got SO much to tell you about. Let’s just say, Muppets fans are about to be VERY happy! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets officially opens to the public on May 26th, with Annual Passholder previews taking place on May 21st, 22nd, and 23rd, but Cast Members get the chance to preview the ride even EARLIER. We got a chance to ride recently, and when we tell you there’s SO MUCH to catch up on, we really mean it. Don’t worry, though, we’re taking you through it all in advance, so you don’t miss anything when you ride! If you don’t want any spoilers, look away now! Outdoor queue Starting out in the queue, you’ll notice TONS of framed photos, costumes, and posters from the many years of The Muppets. Throughout the entire experience, you’ll notice Easter Eggs to the iconic Muppet movies, Muppet*Vision, and the Aerosmith version of the attraction, which we were so stoked to see. Make sure to look closer at the details Heading into the pre-show room, we were hit with even more details! The pre-show itself is pretty short, so you may want to ride numerous times to see all the details. Some of our favorite details are all the nods to PizzeRizzo, such as the pizza box in the recording studio. You’ll also want to pay close attention to the recording booth as a whole — Scooter is over on the left, but the details are WILD. The more you look, the more you’ll see! It’s time to start the show! Of course, they kept the iconic line from the pre-show, which we’re thrilled about. Now someone shouts out, “Who wants some backstage passes?” We do! We do! As we headed over to the loading station, you guessed it — there are MORE details! There are props practically everywhere from the Muppets films you know and love, and you’ll even see a hiring sign for PizzeRizzo right over the loading dock! You’ll even find the Muppet Mobile Labs vehicle, which we LOVED. Muppet Labs This is also where you’ll get your first look at the limos, and yes, they’ve all gotten a makeover! Now they all have a similar color scheme to the car near the ride area entrance, which is reminiscent of The Electric Mayhem’s van. Climb in The license plates are different, too, just like in the Aerosmith version, so keep an eye out for which one you get! If you choose to ask for the front row, there’s a separate waiting area you’ll be sent to, and this is where you’ll find the plans for the L.I.M.O. (pronounced “lymo”) on the wall, which say “make it a stretch, make it a super stretch” — a nod to the Aerosmith version of the ride! Ready to rock! On the ride vehicle itself, we’ll warn you now that the music in the vehicle is actually pretty quiet, so you’ll want to listen closely for what song you get (you know, over all the screaming). We do love that Animal is now the one counting you off for the launch! How fun! Don’t forget to secure your items As for the ride itself, there are definitely some BIG changes, and it lived up to its name! It’s the same ride as before, as the track hasn’t changed, but it’s got some fun Muppets twists throughout it, including some great sarcastic Muppets humor. One of our favorites is that the sign that used to say “corkscrew” now says “obligatory corkscrew.” One night only When you finish the ride and are coming into the unloading station, look quickly over to your left, because that’s where you’ll find Statler and Waldorf, who are, yes, still bolted to the seats, so they’re not going anywhere. They go by quick, so be sure to keep a close eye out for them. Unloading station Overall, one of our favorite parts about this retheme is how many nods there are to Muppets history and Muppet*Vision 3D itself. There are Easter Eggs practically everywhere you look, and that classic Muppets humor was prevalent as well. We loved seeing the Miss Piggy record that featured a “huge, show-stopping, major song,” and Kermit reminds the band that they have “a minute and a half” in the pre-show room! Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney World news, as always, so stay tuned to DFB! Disney Just Dropped 3 HUGE Announcements Including Attraction SNEAK PEEKS, New FULL Menus, and MORE! 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Are you looking forward to riding this new version of the ride? Tell us in the comments! View the full article
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It’s finally happening! We finally got a chance to ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets ahead of its big opening day on May 26th. Now, we’ve already shared some thoughts with you about the new ride, but there’s so much more we need to share! Ready to rock! Here’s the thing: there are SO many fun details and Easter eggs that you could easily miss if you’re not paying attention. So we’re going through all the details we’ve discovered so far, so you can look for them, too, when you get a chance to ride this all-new Muppets attraction. Warning: this contains spoilers, so turn back now if you want to still be surprised! The Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets experience starts as soon as you walk through the entrance, which has been given a new, colorful paint job. Entrance Then you’ll head towards the ride building, where the giant guitar has also been given a similar makeover. There’s even a poster of the ride nearby. If you look closely at the piano below the guitar, you’ll notice that one of the keys is painted gold — inspired by the Electric Mayhem’s frontman and keyboard player, Dr. Teeth. We love it! Inside is where things really get interesting. So the story is that Scooter’s uncle, J.P. Grosse, who also owns the Muppet Theatre, is now in charge of G-Force Records. During the pre-show, Electric Mayhem is in the recording studio having a jam session. You’ll even see penguin engineers, as well as a Scooter animatronic. The penguins In the preshow, you’ll want to keep an eye out behind Scooter for a black Gibson Les Paul hanging on the wall near Kermit’s banjo. This was in the former Aerosmith version of the ride’s preshow, referenced by Joe Perry. He would ask “Chris” to grab the guitar, and if a Cast Member was in the preshow room, they’d grab the guitar and take it through a nearby door, acting as Chris. Kermit’s banjo is there to! Scooter is also holding a mug that says, “Hey, hey, hey,” referencing the original Aerosmith manager’s dialogue from the old preshow. Scooter running the show Oh, and don’t forget to look for the boxes of PizzeRizzo pizza hiding in the recording studio, too. Honestly, that one just hurts! You’ll also spot some more in the loading area, as well. And keep an ear out in case anyone asks if you want Backstage Passes! PizzeRizzo will always remain in my heart After you leave the preshow, there’s a hallway with a TON of photos of Scooter as Employee of the Month, but there’s also a photo of actor Ken Marino as an “Outstanding Lifetime Achievement Award” as a “G-Force Legend.” Marino was in the original Aerosmith preshow as a sound engineer. What an honor In the preshow, the band is so into the jam session that they’re about to miss their biggest concert ever. So now it’s up to Kermit, Miss Piggy, you, and the rest of the Muppets gang to get them to the concert in time. To do that, you’ll need to hop in the Lengthy Immediate Motion Object (L.I.M.O.) created by Muppet Labs. Speaking of Muppet Labs, in the ride loading zone, you can see the Muppet Mobile Lab — a two-wheeled science-lab vehicle that resembles a small rocket ship. Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and Beaker used to drive the Mobile Lab around Disney World, Disneyland, and even Hong Kong Disneyland back in the day. Muppet Labs There’s also a spot near where you wait for the front row with blueprints for the L.I.M.O. that say, “Make it a stretch, make it a super stretch,” which is also a reference to the Aerosmith version of the ride. Climb in! There are quite a few references to Muppet*Vision 3D as well, including a Miss Piggy record that says it “Includes an unreleased huge, show-stopping, major song from Miss Piggy,” and Kermit reminds the band that they only have “a minute and a half” before the show. This is a reference to when Sam Eagle would promise a “glorious three-hour finale,” before Kermit says, “You’ve got a minute and a half.” It’s time to start the show! Near the beginning of the ride, there’s a large sign that looks like an advertisement for PizzeRizzo that looks almost exactly like the sign that used to be on top of the old restaurant building — and it honestly might just be. And for all you Sweetums fans, don’t worry — he makes an appearance, too! Outdoor queue Statler and Waldorf also appear toward the end, with iconic quips as always. One of which is, “We can’t, you old fool! We’re bolted to the seats!” This is a direct callback to their dialogue from Muppet*Vision 3D. Unloading station We had a blast riding Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets and will be in Hollywood Studios for the ride’s big opening day, so stay tuned to DFB for more. Why You’ll Have To Ride Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets Over And Over Again 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What do you think of Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets so far? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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runDisney is a popular and beloved Disney tradition, where several times a year, runners flock to Disney World and run races through the Disney World parks. These events include getting into the parks before they open and meeting special characters! These race weekends are so amazing, and runDisney has just confirmed the themes for one of the most popular race weekends of the year, so if you’ve been waiting for the Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend themes, they’re here! These races are going to take place February 25th through March 1st of 2027, and the weekend will include a 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, and a special Disney Princess Fairy Tale Challenge for those who complete all three. Without further ado, let’s get into the themes. ©Disney First up is the 5K, which is themed to Princess Tiana. ©Disney The 10K will be themed to Princess Snow White. ©Disney Of course, there is the Half Marathon, which is themed to Princess Jasmine. ©Disney And the Disney Princess Fairy Tale Challenge, for those who complete all three races, is themed to Princess Ariel. ©Disney We are so excited about next year’s Disney Princess Half Marathon themes, and we will make sure to keep you posted on all runDisney news, so stay tuned with Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! I Won A runDisney Race — Here’s What You Actually Get! 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be participating in the 2027 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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You know, sometimes the best snacks at Disney World aren’t even at the parks, and we’re here to prove that to you! Mater Chocolate Pit Stop We’re Disney foodies — we love going around Disney World, trying all the different eats and treats the Most Magical Place on Earth has to offer. Recently, we went to a few Disney World Resort hotels to see what we could find to put in our stomachs, and we need to share our BIG snack haul with you! We guarantee you’ll find something in here that you’ll want to try. Art of Animation Over at the Art of Animation Resort, we went to a quick-service spot called Landscape of Flavors. A few things caught our eye there, starting with the Mickey-Shaped Peanut Butter Brownie for $5.99. This feels like a super nostalgic snack because it reminds us of those Mickey-shaped brownies with icing and Mickey sprinkles they had at the resorts in the 2000s. Mickey-Shaped Peanut Butter Brownie The sprinkles on this are peanut butter M&Ms! The chocolate icing on top is soft, smooth, and slightly gooey with a brownie base that has a soft and fluffy texture. There’s no fudgey interior, but in this case, that’s a good thing given all the other flavors going on. It looks so nostalgic! The peanut butter M&Ms add a good, crunchy texture to the smoothness of the rest of the brownie, and the peanut butter drizzle gives a prominent, salty, peanut butter flavor in every bite. The combination of the peanut butter and chocolate makes for a good, balanced sweet and salty flavor profile! The portion size is perfect without being overwhelmingly sweet, thanks to the peanut butter to balance it out. This is so tasty! The chocolate goodness doesn’t end there, because we got the Mater Chocolate Pit Stop next, for $6.79. This is a chocolate mousse over a chocolate cake with a white chocolate coin and whipped cream. The overall flavor is milkier and creamier than the chocolate flavor we anticipated. Mater Chocolate Pit Stop The mousse is light and airy with a bouncy texture, almost like gelatin. It’s smooth and not very rich, with a very toned-down chocolate flavor that doesn’t come through much. The chocolate cake layer is stiff and a bit flavorless. Who wants to try the Mater treat? The outer edge is darker than the middle, possibly having a cookie crumble exterior, but it’s so stiff that it’s hard to tell. The whipped cream is light and creamy and blends well with the rest of the dessert. It’s a bit of a tougher, thick dessert that’s not the easiest to eat. We’d also consider it more milky than chocolate-focused. Let’s take a bite! The last thing we grabbed from here was the Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sandwich for $13.19. This is a pretty decent-sized sandwich that could honestly feed maybe two people. The sandwich also comes with a lot of pepper-y seasoned kettle chips. Crispy Chicken Parmesan Sandwich This is served on a ciabatta-style bread, and the overall flavor leans heavily toward the red sauce. The combination of the ciabatta bread and red sauce gives the whole sandwich a flatbread pizza type of feel. The amount of sauce can drown out the chicken flavor in some bites, but the chicken is cooked through evenly and is pretty tender. The sandwich is a good size! It was easy to cut and bite through, even though it was large. There is a thin layer of cheese on top of the chicken. It’s your typical chicken parm, but the cheese blends into everything and is hard to pick out the individual flavor. It’s a solid sandwich choice if you’re in the mood for a heavier snack or lunch. This was good! On to the next one! All-Star Movies Over at the All-Star Movies Resort, we checked out the World Premiere Food Court. The first thing we grabbed was the mouth-watering Cookie Butter Cheesecake for $6.29. This was more cheesecake than cookie butter, with a strong cream cheese flavor. Cookie Butter Cheesecake The whipped cream was smooth, as was the cheesecake layer, with a very crumbly crust. The crust’s foundation was a little weak and fell apart easily — it really didn’t stay together for long. We wouldn’t necessarily go out of our way for this, especially since this resort is a little removed from a lot of spots. However, it was a pretty decent portion for $6, and it was refreshing on a hot Florida day (which we’re getting lots of now). This was good! We also grabbed the Alien Blondie for $5.79 at this location. This treat is so cute, and it looks like it should taste so good, but unfortunately, it has a single note. The base is supposed to be a blondie, and what we have instead is a very dry, tense vanilla cake. It explains why it felt like it was going to break in half when we tried to pick it up. Alien Blondie The only flavor note is vanilla, and an unpleasantly dry vanilla cake at that. The coating on the outside is green icing, but we didn’t even get any notes of vanilla in the actual icing; all we tasted was sugar. The eyeballs are your classic sugar eyeballs. This was disappointing! The great news is that we think kids will absolutely love this. It would be great to split it between two or three kids because it is enough for each of them to have a very nice piece, and it is so cute that they will absolutely go nuts over it. This could be good for kids! But wait, there’s more! All-Star Music Our last hotel stop was the All-Star Music Resort. There, we went to Intermission Food Court and got the Warm Hugs Chocolate Mousse for $6.49. First off, the treat presentation was super neat! The description for the treat says hot chocolate mousse, but it really just tasted like normal chocolate mousse. So, we don’t really know how that works. Warm Hugs Chocolate Mousse The fondant and mousse were very, very smooth, and our fork glided through both. There were some crunchy and large sugar crystals on top that added some much-needed texture. Throughout, there were also some large crispy puffs that added some more crunchiness, but it wasn’t enough in our opinion. This is another that we wouldn’t go out of our way for, unless you’re a massive Olaf fan and NEED to get this. A look inside! We’re always on the hunt for different bites around Disney World, so make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more food reviews! 8 NEW Snacks Are Coming To Disney World NEXT WEEK 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW What would you want to try here? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Over the years, we’ve tried thousands of treats in Disney World. All-Star Movies And sometimes, those treats disappear and then return later down the road with new ingredients or a new look. Recently, a long-lost treat that we missed resurfaced at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort…and you know we just had to try it! Several years ago (way back pre-pandemic in 2019), Disney’s Hollywood Studios offered this The Sorcerer’s Hat 30th Anniversary Treat. It was oh-so-cute, made to look like the park’s iconic Sorcerer’s Hat icon (RIP). It sold out quickly and was popular with guests, but we didn’t see it again for a long while. The Sorcerer’s Hat Now, you can find a NEW version of the snack at the World Premiere Food Court at All-Star Movies Resort. It’s completely revamped ingredients-wise, but the look is very similar. It’s called the Sorcerer’s Hat Chocolate Strawberry and it’s available for $6.49. Isn’t it cute?! The middle of the treat is a chocolate-strawberry mousse. The mousse itself was SO creamy and smooth with no grittiness whatsoever. The chocolate flavor is very prominent, and it pretty much overpowers the strawberry. Add in the two chocolate ears on the hat, and you’ve got a chocolate lover’s dream. An up-close look. The cookie on the bottom is soft and easy to cut through, but not very interesting texture-wise. It’s also chocolate, so the rich flavor continues through the base. We were craving a bit more variety flavor-wise here — it would be improved with a little punch from that strawberry. Inside the treat Dark chocolate lovers will be happy, but if you’re not used to this much chocolate at once, we recommend having a drink on hand to balance things out a bit. It’s a really fun dessert visually, though, and it makes for super cute photos! The mousse Ultimately, we think the delicious chocolate trumps the flavor of the old version of this treat, but it’s still not something you should really go out of your way to purchase. Honestly, it would’ve been more fun to have this at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in honor of the return of the Sorcerer Mickey hat. We’ll be on the lookout for more snacks, so subscribe to our newsletter and follow us on social media! 8 New Snacks Are Coming to Disney World NEXT WEEK 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Would you try this treat? Tell us in the comments! View the full article
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Amazon quietly dropped a sale today that genuinely caught us off guard, and we’re not letting it slide without saying something. Essentials on Sale NOW If you’ve got a Disney trip on the calendar this summer, or even just a weekend away, now is a really good time to stock up on the travel gear you’ve been putting off buying. We rounded up four standout items from the sale that are worth your attention, and we think at least one of them is going to solve a problem you didn’t even know you had yet. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. The Bag That Makes Airport Security Tolerable — 40% OFF ©Amazon Getting through TSA with a carry-on backpack is one of those small miseries of travel that most people just accept. You’re yanking out your laptop, juggling your shoes, and hoping nothing spills out of an unzipped pocket. The Taygeer Travel Backpack was actually designed with that specific chaos in mind. Its 180-degree zipper opening lets you lay the bag flat for security screening, and a dedicated 15.6-inch laptop compartment means you’re not fishing through layers of stuff to grab it. There’s also a wet pocket for swimsuits or toiletries, a separate shoe bag included in the box, and a side pocket that fits a Stanley 30 oz cup. At 1.74 pounds, it won’t eat into your weight allowance, and it meets carry-on requirements for Spirit, JetBlue, Frontier, and others. Take a look at it before your next trip. view ON AMAZON This Is the Thing That Saves You at 2 PM in the Parks — 21% OFF Sukeen 4 Pack Cooling Towel Anyone who’s spent a July afternoon at Disney World knows what the heat actually feels like by mid-afternoon. It’s relentless, and no amount of shade or misting fans fully fixes it. That’s where the Sukeen 4-Pack Cooling Towels come in. You soak them, wring them out, and give them a snap, and the hyper-evaporative mesh fabric pulls heat away from your skin almost immediately. Cooling towel They stay chilled for up to three hours and are completely chemical-free, which matters if you’re using them on kids. The set comes with four towels, each in its own waterproof pouch with a carabiner clip so you can attach it to a park bag or stroller. These also work well for anyone dealing with hot flashes, headaches, or just an intense gym session back home. Grab a set for your next park day. view ON AMAZON You’re Going to Regret Not Having This Suitcase — 36% OFF ©Amazon Spinner wheels sound like a small thing until you’re hauling a stiff-wheeled bag through a crowded terminal trying to make a connection. The Samsonite Freeform Hardside Carry-On moves on four oversized dual-spinner wheels that glide in any direction, which sounds small but makes an enormous difference when you’re tired and in a hurry. The 21-inch hard shell interior gives you solid packing space while still fitting in most overhead bins and meeting international and domestic carry-on size restrictions. Samsonite re-engineered the construction to keep the weight down without sacrificing that hard-case durability. It’s the kind of bag that quietly earns its place as your go-to every single trip. Check it out before the sale ends. view ON AMAZON Your Stanley Deserves a Better Home — 15% OFF BAGSMART Water Bottle Holder Bag Water bottles have gotten bigger, and most bags haven’t caught up. If you’re carrying a large tumbler and have nowhere good to put it, the BAGSMART Water Bottle Holder Bag is worth a look. It fits bottles from 18 oz all the way up to 64 oz, with a side zipper that accommodates tumblers with wider handles. Beyond the bottle slot, there’s a front phone pocket, room for cards and keys, and it’s made from a quilted, water-resistant fabric that wipes clean easily. It converts between a crossbody, shoulder bag, and top-handle tote depending on how you attach the strap, so it adapts to park mode or errand mode without any fuss. view ON AMAZON A sale like this doesn’t come around every day, and the items above are the kind of practical investments that genuinely make travel easier rather than just adding to your pile of gear. Whether you’re heading to Disney World this summer or just trying to travel smarter, these picks are worth adding to your cart while the prices are down. We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article
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As excitement builds for the release of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu on May 22, lifelong Star Wars fan and Disneyland Resort cast member, Jennifer Baillere, recently experienced a dream come true when she was surprised with an invitation to attend the film’s world premiere. Today, Jennifer works as an area manager at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge inside Disneyland park, where she helps bring the stories and adventures of a galaxy far, far away…. to life for guests every day. But Jennifer’s connection to Star Wars began long before helping guests explore Batuu. “My parents showed us the films all the time growing up,” Jennifer shared. “We would ask to watch them over and over again.” She remembers learning Star Wars films were in development and becoming captivated by the idea that the galaxy’s story was continuing. “That’s when I knew I was a huge fan,” she said. Over the years, that fandom became deeply woven into nearly every aspect of her life. Jennifer met her husband through a Star Wars fan group in 2007, the couple has Star Wars wedding rings, and even named their children Anakin and Amidala. “We live and breathe it constantly,” Jennifer said. “Now we get to pass that love of Star Wars down to our kids.” That lifelong passion recently came full circle when Disney surprised Jennifer with the opportunity to attend the world premiere of Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu at the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood. As she stepped onto the red carpet surrounded by droids and fellow fans, Jennifer said the moment felt surreal. During the event, Jennifer had the opportunity to explore immersive themed experiences inspired by the film while celebrating alongside cast, filmmakers, and fans from around the world. She also had a blast on the press line, excitedly spotting and identifying talent as stars arrived throughout the evening. From seeing Grogu-themed displays to taking in the excitement of the premiere atmosphere, she said the evening was something she and he husband will never forget. For Jennifer, the experience also reflected what makes Star Wars resonate so deeply with audiences across generations. “The themes of good versus evil, the hero’s tale, and the idea that you can be no one and become someone, that’s what connects with people,” she said. That same emotional connection is something Jennifer now hopes to create for guests every day in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. “Working in Galaxy’s Edge has been, in the words of Hondo, ‘the opportunity of a lifetime,’” Jennifer said. “I get to live my Star Wars dream every day. I get to hear the music, see the fans, and share it with fellow cast members who have their own passion for it too.” Over the years, Jennifer has built a career rooted in storytelling, leadership, and creating unforgettable guest experiences – all values she says perfectly align with the enduring legacy of Star Wars. Be sure to catch Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu in theaters Friday, May 22, and keep your comms open to Disney Parks Blog and @disneyparks social for the latest across the galaxy. Mandalorian and Grogu-Inspired Scents at Bath & Body Works READ MORE New Mandalorian and Grogu Menus and More at Disney Parks READ MORE Star Wars at Disneyland, Disney World, and More READ MORE The post From Batuu to the Red Carpet: Disneyland Cast Member Celebrates ‘The Mandalorian and Grogu’ appeared first on Disney Parks Blog. View the full article
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Dollywood theme park is slowly capturing our hearts! The beloved theme park in the Smoky Mountains is home to some amazing coasters and all things Dolly Parton. Let’s talk Dollywood! If you don’t know, the park has also started doing different festivals throughout the year! Right now, you can check out the Flower and Food Festival from April 18 until June 7th. We tried a bunch of these festival eats, and we’re bringing you our FULL reviews! We started off over on Showstreet with a little something sweet. At Spotlight Bakery (home to the famous apple pie), we tried out 3 of the festival items! First, we grabbed the Lavender Dreams Cupcake for $8.79. The Lavender Dream Cupcake This cupcake was pretty surprising. The lavender comes in the flavor of the cake, but it isn’t overwhelming. The floral flavor is subtle, but if you’re floral averse, you might think this has a slight spray of perfume. The cake itself was super moist and light with a slight lemon tang, which paired nicely with the lavender. There was also a nice crust on the outside layer of the cake that we loved. Such a pretty butterfly! The icing was a buttercream icing that had the classic sweet, subtle taste. The pearls on top added a nice crunch, but they weren’t too hard. Next, we had the Black Forest Cupcake for $8.79. This cupcake was pretty different from the other! It still had that soft, fluffy cake with a slight crust on the outside. The cake was great for chocolate lovers because it had a very rich, chocolate-forward flavor. The Black Forest Cupcake There was a cherry filling inside that reminded us of a pie filling texturally. It was a sweet maraschino cherry that we thought made this good cupcake into a great one. The frosting was super soft and light, and it was lightly lined with a cherry syrup. It was easily our favorite part. The cupcake was surprisingly complex! It was delicious! Finally, we got a Butterfly Sugar Cookie! This cookie was a big hit with the team. We had low expectations, but we would go back for this time and time again. The cookie was soft, buttery, and sugary. It was easily torn in half, and our teeth sank right in. The icing was soft and not hard like we anticipated it to be. It was a sweet, subtle flavor that we think works with the cookie to make a seriously underrated snack. The Butterfly Sugar Cookie After that, we went over to Market Square BIG SKILLET in Rivertown Junction! If you’ve ever been to Dollywood, you know just how good it smells in this area. We started with the Sausage and Rice Skillet for $14.99! The Sausage and Rice Skillet This was easily our favorite bite at this spot. While it wasn’t the most visually appealing, it was absolutely delicious. The rice was perfectly cooked, so it was soft but not mushy. The sausage was easily the star of the show thanks to all of the herbs inside. It was cooked perfectly, so it had a small snap, but it was savory and herbaceous. The vegetables in the middle were bright and added a refreshing complexity that made this hearty meal super flavorful. It wasn’t reinventing the wheel, but it did a classic meal well. We loved this! Next, we grabbed the Pork Belly Bowl for $13.99! This was nearly perfect, but it just fell short. The pork belly was cooked perfectly, so it had a good shape, but it was still moist and fatty. It wasn’t overly chewy, but if you don’t like a fatty texture, you probably won’t like this. The cucumber salad was sweet and added a nice crunch that we liked. If you’re used to Asian cucumber salads, this one won’t be as flavorful, but it was on the sweeter side, which helped cut through the salty pork belly. The Pork Belly Bowl This dish fell short due to the rice. It was overcooked and mushy, despite the flavors being nice. It reminded us of the vegetable fried frozen rice from Trader Joe’s, which isn’t a bad thing, but it wasn’t what we were hoping for. The toppings were still worth the bite, but the rice was a sad addition. A closer look! Finally, at this spot, we grabbed the Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese for $13.99. This was definitely our least favorite of the three bowls. The noodles were seriously overcooked, making them mushy and not a very pleasant experience. Luckily, the cheese was a saving grace! It was a white cheddar that was creamy, mild, and buttery. The Hot Honey BBQ Chicken Mac and Cheese The chicken was another letdown in our book. It was fine, although it was a bit on the dry side. It reminded us of precooked chicken you can grab at the store. The sauce on the chicken leaned more honey than hot. This made the chicken sweeter, which balanced well with the savory cheese. This might be a safe “adventurous” food for picky eaters wanting to try something new, but we would probably skip next time. A closer look! For our last festival food booth, we stopped by Trailhead Eats! This spot has rotating festival eats and we tried all three options. The menu! The Braised Beef Potato was $13.99! This potato really surprised us. The potato itself was on the colder side, and it was slightly undercooked. It was still fork-tender, but it wasn’t super soft. That being said, the toppings really made up for it. The cheese was mild and flavorful, and mixed beautifully with the loads of braised beef below it. The Braised Beef Potato The beef was savory and slightly moist. The tomatoes added some nice acidity and brightness. The chimichuri on top was the real star. It added a great herbaceous flavor along with a nice amount of garlic. Once this was all mixed together, it created a hearty and comforting meal. Those toppings were delicious! Next was the Pesto Caprese Sandwich for $12.99. Talk about simply delicious! This sandwich has a nice, subtle mozzarella cheese that was moist and easy to bite into. The tomato was fresh and added a subtle acidity to the rest of the meal. The basil was also fresh, which was slightly minty and peppery. The Pesto Caprese Sandwich On the side, there was a dipping sauce that was similar to a gazpacho. It was light and thin but had a nice tomato flavor. It also had tons of herbs that made it feel more complex. The soft bread really held it all together to make a nice, easy meal. A look at the sandwich! Finally, we grabbed the Honey BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich for $12.99! This was the epitome of sweet barbecue. The bun was soft and fluffy, so it served as a great vessel for all of that delicious pulled pork. The pulled pork was easily pulled apart, not dry, and it had several fatty bites that melted in our mouths. The Honey BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich The honey barbecue was slightly thick and sweet, while still maintaining the caramelized flavor you can expect from a good barbecue sauce. There was SO much meat and sauce that we had some deliciously sticky fingers by the time it was done. On the bottom, there were a few bread and butter pickles that added a crunchy and acidic bite. Look at all that sauce! We were HUGE fans of Dollywood’s Flower and Food Festival thanks to the delicious snacks and gorgeous topiaries. We can’t wait to share even more from our trip to the Smokies, so be sure to stay tuned with DFB for more. REVIEW: We Tried a 25 POUND (!!!) Apple Pie In Dollywood 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which would you try? Tell us in the comments! View the full article
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We’re a few weeks away from the end of EPCOT’s International Flower & Garden Festival, and while that’s a bummer, it also means that the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, arguably the biggest festival of the year, will begin at the end of August. Food & Wine Festival This year’s Food & Wine Festival runs from August 27th through November 21st, 2026, which yes, means it lands during one of the hottest times of the year, and crowds fluctuate pretty intensely throughout that season (since you’ll go through summer, fall, and the very beginning of winter). Members of our team have been to the festival EVERY year for the past 10+ years, and yet, somehow every year, we make at least one new mistake that we vow to never make again (and we don’t…we just make a different one). If you’re heading to the festival this year, do yourself a favor and make sure you don’t make the same mistakes we did last year. Forgetting to Drink Water AND Electrolytes You’ve heard it approximately 14 million times, with at least 10 million of those being from us alone: DRINK WATER while you’re in the parks in the heat. However, that’s not the end of the story. When it’s hot outside, and you’re sweating buckets, it’s important to not only keep yourself hydrated with water, but to ALSO drink electrolytes to replace what you’re sweating out. Powerade has electrolytes! There’s a reason why you see athletes and those out in the sun a lot drinking a mix of water AND a drink with electrolytes, such as Powerade, Gatorade, or you see them adding electrolyte packets into their water. This is because electrolytes are essential minerals, like sodium, calcium, and potassium, that you won’t get in water regularly, but they’re incredibly important in helping your body regulate its functions, especially in the heat. Do yourself a favor and be ready to find the balance between drinking lots of water, ALSO getting electrolytes, while also balancing the fun drinks you’re getting throughout the day too. It’s a little hard, but it’s absolutely manageable. Eating In The Eat While you may think you can eat whatever you want, whenever you want, when it’s 100+ degrees Fahrenheit and the humidity is making you feel like someone is covering you with a wet paper towel the moment you step outside in the parks, there ARE indeed rules for eating, especially if you’ve got a sensitive stomach. Passion Fruit Cream Slush at EPCOT Food & Wine Festival (2025) This is especially true for items that have lots of dairy in them, or raw fish, such as sushi. We’ve heard some horror stories from members of our team on what can happen if you eat these heavier or more delicate items in the heat of the day (spoiler alert: sometimes they don’t mix well with the heat, and you may not feel the greatest), so we recommend eating those items earlier in the morning, or after the sun has come close to setting for the day. Keep Cool WHENEVER You Can When it’s THAT hot in Disney World, it’s important to stay cool whenever you can, and however you can. That means that, whenever there’s an opportunity, we recommend heading inside to take advantage of the AC. If you’ve grabbed food from a festival booth, instead of eating at a table (or on a trash can) outside, step into a quick-service restaurant to enjoy the AC, or at the very least, find some shade. Festival lines can get long! We also recommend bringing what you need to keep yourself cool when you are outside, such as fans, cooling towels, sunglasses, umbrellas — whatever works for you. If it will help keep you out of the sun, or help keep yourself cool on bright, hot, sunny days, it’s absolutely worth bringing into the parks, even if that means you bring a slightly bigger bag. Underestimating How Filling Booths Can Be Festival booths are known for having smaller portions at lower prices, which makes it much easier to snack around the festival throughout the day. However, we’ve seen firsthand how people think they can eat at a booth basically every hour, grabbing at least 1-2 items at each booth, and if you’re eating the whole portion yourself, or not sharing, that can become VERY filling VERY fast. Frozen S’mores from Festival Favorites It’s just something to keep in mind while you’re planning, because in this case, it’s common for your eyes to be bigger than your stomach, especially on, you guessed it, hot days. Be flexible and ready to change your plans around if needed, and really listen to your body! Refreshment Outpost full spread We’ll be at day one of the festival to bring you all our reviews and the updates you need to know to have a successful festival day, so stay tuned to DFB! Everything We Know About This Year’s Food and Wine Festival! IT'S WINE & DINE TIME! Food & Wine Festival can be a bummer. You stand in line waiting for what looks like the perfect treat, and it's a bust. But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE EPCOT Food & Wine Festival experience. If you're planning a day or a week at the festival, we've got every performance, activity, and tasty nosh detailed out so you can make the most of your time and money. Listen, it's a tough job eating and documenting the nearly 200 bites and sips, but we do it all for YOU! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Learn More About the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival! Food and Wine Festival 101 Eat to the Beat Concert Updates EPCOT Food and Wine Festival - Fans Facebook Page Wine and Dine Half Marathon Details Get More Updates, Tips, and Tricks to Help You Conquer the Food & Wine Festival Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! What else would you add to this list? Tell us in the comments! View the full article
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There are so many sweet treats and desserts all over Disney World that it can be difficult to know what you should try and what you should skip. Cinderella Castle That’s why we try to review every new item so that you can make easier decisions about what snacks you want to try on your next Disney World vacation. We recently tried two new croissants, so let’s see if you should grab them! First, we stopped by Intermission Food Court at All-Star Music Resort to try the Mocha Croissant for $6.49. Mocha Croissant We were surprised by how delicious this croissant was! It was extremely flaky, and the absolute star was the cream cheese filling. We were worried at first that this would be too overpoweringly sweet, but that was not the case. The filling added a great, slightly tangy flavor that balanced really well with the coffee flavor. Lots of Chocolate! Personally, we liked the half without the chocolate coating a little bit better because the coffee flavor came through a bit more, but if you’re a fan of chocolaty mochas, you would love the half with chocolate a lot! That being said, this was a very rich treat, but it would be delicious paired with a cup of coffee. Cream Cheese Filling Overall, we would definitely grab this next time we are at the All-Stars, but we wouldn’t suggest making a trip all the way there just for this croissant. Then we went over to Landscape of Flavors at Art of Animation and tried the Chocolate-Marshmallow-Hazelnut Croissant for $6.49. Chocolate Marshmallow Hazelnut Croissant This is a messy one! This Croissant is loaded with marshmallow and chocolate, so that mess is unavoidable if you grab this treat. While the crust was nice and flaky, and we enjoyed the flavor of the hazelnut spread, overall, this Croissant was extremely sweet, to the point of being overpowering. If you’re able to tackle the mess, this would be great to share, and kids who love super sweet desserts will probably be obsessed with this, but for everyone else, the sweetness was a bit too much. So, unless you’re planning to share or have someone in your party who really loves ultra-sweet desserts, we would recommend passing on this one. So gooey! We’ve tried every snack at Walt Disney World, and you can see all of our reviews here in the Disney World Snacks Guide! So if you’re feeling overwhelmed planning what and where to eat on your next Disney vacation, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! And we always make sure to keep you informed of all the newest Disney snacks and drinks that pop up, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! This NEW Cookie Butter Croissant Changes EVERYTHING! 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be trying either of these croissants on your next visit to Disney World? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Alright, if you’ve had your eye on some Disney merchandise but don’t want to spend an arm and a leg, when we tell you that we’ve got incredible news, we mean it with our whole hearts. ©BoxLunch We’re suckers for the Disney merchandise available over at BoxLunch, and love seeing the new items released what feels like week after week. We’ll be the first to admit, though, that some of those prices are EXPENSIVE, but that’s why NOW is the perfect time to shop, because there’s a BIG sale happening right now. At this very moment, if you purchase TWO Disney items on BoxLunch, you’ll get a third Disney item for FREE! DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. Decorate Your Kitchen! ©BoxLunch If you’ve been looking for some new additions to add to your kitchen to bring the Disney magic alive, the Disney Mickey and Friends Village Spice Jar Set is absolutely perfect. You can use each one for a different spice, and it even comes with 25 spice stickers to label them easily. It’s currently available for pre-order, and is expected to ship between September 15th and 25th. Grab it on BoxLunch! It’s Never A Bad Time For A New Loungefly ©BoxLunch For all the Tangled fans out there, the Tangled Pascal Floral Loungefly Mini Backpack is absolutely adorable and perfect for the summertime. The whole backpack is a beautiful teal color and covered with yellow and purple flowers, while the front pocket features Pascal himself. This item is also available for pre-order and is expected to ship between July 7th and July 17th. Grab it on BoxLunch! New Ears For The Summer Season? Yes, Please! ©BoxLunch If you love ears, but want a pair that does a great job of going with lighter colored outfits that may be easier to wear during the summer, look no further than the Minnie Mouse Polka Dot Bows White Ears. The ears and headband are white, but you’ll find embossed bows of different kinds all over the front and back of the ears, complete with pink polka dots. Then, a pink bow with white polka dots in the middle brings it all together. Grab it on BoxLunch! The Cutest Salt and Pepper Shakers ©BoxLunch We’re absolutely OBSESSED with the Ratatouille Remy & Gusteau’s Cookbook Figural Salt and Pepper Shakers, and love that they’re part of this sale! Yes, the set comes with both, but you can choose to put the salt and pepper in whichever one you’d like. This is available for pre-order now, and they’re expected to ship between September 1st and September 11th. Grab it on BoxLunch! Feel All The Nostalgia For Movie Night ©BoxLunch We absolutely FLIPPED when we saw the Pocahontas Retro Quilted Blanket for the first time, and yes, we’re just as excited this time around. The blanket is reversible, with a teal pattern on one side and a purple/pink pattern on the other. It’s currently available for pre-order with expected shipping taking place between June 16th and June 26th. Grab it on BoxLunch! We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disney merchandise news, so be sure to stay tuned to DFB! View the full article
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We love Loungeflys for their unique style and designs, and this new bunch that just dropped has us giddy. ©Loungefly Loungefly bags can help us celebrate our favorite Disney movies, shows, and characters, all while being durable and practical for everyday use. We love wearing them in the parks and just around town to add a touch of Disney to our day. Here are four of the latest Loungeflys available on Amazon right now. DISCLOSURE: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning when you click the links and make a purchase, we receive a commission. view OUR LOUNGEFLY Page on AMAZON Get this stunning The Hunchback of Notre Dame Loungefly! ©Amazon This Hunchback of Notre Dame Loungefly backpack has a detailed stained glass design to reflect the beauty of Notre Dame. Inside the window appliques with debossed designs of the characters, this mini backpack is perfect for fans of the film. view ON AMAZON This Oozma Kappa House from Monsters University is adorable! ©Amazon Scare your way into Oozma Kappa fraternity with this adorable mini backpack inspired by Disney and Pixar’s Monsters University! Shaped like the suburban-style frat house, on the front, you’ll find Mike, Sulley, and their friends ready to greet you. The custom applique top handle is our dear friend, Art, with a huge smile on his face. On the sides, you’ll find cool details like the list of fraternities competing in the Scare Games, and on the back, Don Carlton’s business card. On the inside front pocket, you’ll find Mike, Sully, and Don joined by Squishy’s mom, Sheri. view ON AMAZON We love this Beauty and the Beast Loungefly backpack! ©Amazon This Loungefly Disney Beauty and the Beast Belle Stained Glass Portrait Mini Backpack is fit for a princess. Featuring embossed and appliqued stained-glass details, this backpack is inspired by Belle! The details of her castle on the side and the roses at the top really add a touch of character to this bag. view ON AMAZON Or, you can grab this Rescuers Down Under bag! ©Amazon As a millennial, this Rescuers Down Under Loungefly is my favorite. With embroidered with characters from the film on the front, this bag includes debossed details on the sides, a magnetic flap closure, and zippered pockets. view ON AMAZON Don’t forget to take a look at more Loungeflys here! ©Amazon If you are looking for more Disney Loungeflys, be sure to visit our Loungefly page on Amazon. We keep this updated with the latest Loungefly designs and the Loungeflys that are on sale right now. view OUR LOUNGEFLY Page on AMAZON We’re always on the hunt for the latest and greatest Disney souvenirs and essentials, so don’t forget to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog for more! View the full article
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Recently, we went to Dollywood theme park in the Smoky Mountains! The Apple Pie This colorful, butterfly-filled park is home to some of the country’s best roller coasters, snacks, and live entertainment! There are several famous snacks in the park, and if you don’t check out the 25-pound apple pie, you’re missing out on something BIG. Dollywood is known for its southern roots, beautiful scenery, and so much more. One of my favorite parts of the theme park is the sneakily good snacks and dining. Over on Showstreet, you’ll find Spotlight Bakery, which is home to the park’s Starbucks location and some delicious treats. Showstreet! There are several things to try here (and you can get the famous Cinnamon Bread at this spot), but the most notable item is the famous 25 Pound Apple Pie! We aren’t joking, this massive dessert (complete with a butterfly on top) is $249 for the entire pie, and the skillet is included. This is 25 POUNDS! For a slice of the 25-pound pie, it’ll cost you $25! This slice (which took us two hands to hold) is filled to the brim with apple slices, all below a golden brown crust. Multiple people stopped in their tracks to ask where we grabbed this slice! A slice of the pie! This pie was something! It wasn’t overly sweet or too sugary, especially compared to the cinnamon bread. It isn’t served warm, which we found to be a little disappointing. The filling was filled with cinnamon and butter, all cooked around those layers upon layers of apples. The apples were soft-baked, but they still had a bit of a bite, which made sure the pie wasn’t mushy. SO many layers! The crust was thick and flaky, just like you hope a good apple pie crust will be. Was this the best apple pie in the world? Probably not, but the novelty of it is the size! It was easily shared between 3 people with so much left over. When you divide it among multiple people, this is a pretty good price for the deal. It took TWO hands to hold! If you plan on eating it solo, bring some Tupperware to carry it home in! Spolight Bakery is a solid spot for Dollywood sweets and a quick, familiar coffee. As always, be sure to keep following DFB for more theme park snacks, reviews, news, and more. REVIEW: This Is The Best $12.99 I’ve Ever Spent In A Theme Park 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Tell us what you would try in the comments! View the full article
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We might’ve found the greatest thing since sliced bread over at the Disneyland Resort! Parkside Market Okay, so maybe that’s a bit of an overreaction. Still, this lunch is one we absolutely CANNOT stop thinking about. We recently stopped by GG’s Chicken Shop at Parkside Market in Downtown Disney, and we HAD to share our experience with you! Atmosphere Parkside Market is one of the newer additions to Downtown Disney and is a two-storey quick-service spot that houses several different kitchens that serve up all kinds of tasty eats. GG’s Chicken Shop Inside, you’ll find tons of tables in a bright setting, and upstairs sits a bar with additional tables and booths. There is also some outdoor seating upstairs. Parkside Market But enough about the building — what’s on the menu here?! Menu GG’s Chicken Shop serves “a family-friendly menu of chicken sandwiches, salads, and sides in Downtown Disney from Michelin-starred chef, Lee Wolen.” When the restaurant first opened, we gave it a strong review, so returning was never even a question. GG’s Chicken Shop During our recent visit, we opted for a simple lunch, but it absolutely stood out. Eats First up, we grabbed the Crispy Brussels Sprouts for $6. These are served with chili lime salt. Crispy Brussels Sprouts These have become our new obsession! They are great bang for your buck because the portions are pretty big. There is a lime chili seasoning on top that is so incredibly tasty with a wonderful zest and a hint of spice that is perfection! These are incredible! Next, we tried the Sweet Corn Elote for $6. This side is made with lime, chipotle, cotija, and cilantro. Sweet Corn Elote Another obsession, this elote is served in a small cup with lots of cotija cheese. There might be just a tad too much cheese, but the flavors still come through, and it’s absolutely delicious! In Southern California, you expect good elote, and GG’s Chicken Shop delivers. YUM Finally, we also tried the side GG’s Mac & Cheese — also for $6. GG’s Mac & Cheese This is a plain mac and cheese with no frills, and it’s perfect for a kiddos with a small appetite or those craving a small snack. It’s got that basic, yet reliable, cheesy flavor, and a price that’s tough to beat. Nosh or Not GG’s Chicken Shop is a must-visit if… YOU WANT GOOD QUICK SERVICE. This spot serves elevated quick-service food. It’s not the cheapest restaurant at Disneyland, but it is ideal for folks not wanting to spend a ton of time at a restaurant. A FUN TAKE ON THE CLASSICS INTERESTS YOU. The menu here does cater to classics like waffle fries and chicken sandwiches, but they are specially seasoned and crafted with a bit more care. YOU WANT TO STOCK UP ON SIDES. As you can see, we really dig the sides here — and they aren’t too expensive. If you want to taste a bunch of little things, this is a good spot. You should skip this Downtown Disney restaurant if… YOU WANT A THEMED EXPERIENCE. There are tons of nearby sit-down restaurants that’ll give you more of an immersion. Parkside Market works more like a food court. YOU WANT MORE BANG FOR YOUR BUCK. The sides here are affordable. But keep in mind that sandwiches are a tad pricey and do not include any sides. You can rack up a bill fast. Overall We stuck with sides for our visit and came away with a delicious lunch! GG’s remains a fantastic addition to the Disneyland Resort, and we can’t wait to see what the restaurant delivers next! Everything we tried In the meantime, we’ll be on the lookout for more restaurant updates from the Disneyland Resort, so be sure to stay tuned right here at the Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney news, reviews, tips, and more! DATE ANNOUNCED for Permanent Closure at Downtown Disney 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you eaten at this Disneyland restaurant before? Share your review in the comments! View the full article
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We’ve got some fantastic news for the Disneyland Resort fans out there, especially if you love stopping by the Disneyland Hotel to see what’s happening over at Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar. Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar Indoor dining at this location is currently closed for refurbishment (set to last through Spring 2026, but the closure continues), but dining outside is still available, however, and that means you can experience these EIGHT new eats at the restaurant when they release on May 25th! To celebrate the 15th Anniversary of Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Room in Disneyland, there are special, limited-time dining options available starting on May 25th. While there’s no end date for them just yet, we suggest heading over sooner rather than later to ensure you can snag them. Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar 15th Anniversary Hyena Mug (NEW!) @disneyeats on Instagram BBQ Chicken Flatbread: Teriyaki chicken, red onions, mozzarella cheese, micro herbs, Fresno chilies, green onions, and pineapple (option to add Kālua pork) (NEW!) @disneyeats on Instagram Chicken Katsu Curry: Crispy chicken cutlet, Japanese curry, jasmine rice, soy-marinated egg, and pickled ginger (NEW!) @disneyeats on Instagram Furikake Fries: Beer-battered French fries, furikake, green onions, and gochujang aioli (NEW!) @disneyeats on Instagram Ka-Blue-ie!: Bacardi Superior Rum, Bols Blue Curaçao, Pineapple Juice, Coco Real @disneyeats on Instagram Lost Safari: Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Sam’s Gorilla Grog, Grenadine, Myers’s Dark Rum @disneyeats on Instagram Ginger’s Pear-adise: Absolut Pears Vodka, Canton Ginger, Lime Juice, Agave Nectar @disneyeats on Instagram Old Kungaloosh: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Malibu Rum, Midori Melon, Pineapple & Cranberry Juices @disneyeats on Instagram Rosita’s Margarita: Herradura Reposado Tequila, Bols Orange Curaçao, Lime Juice, Agave Nectar, Falernum @disneyeats on Instagram At this time, there’s no mention of any new or special dining options coming to Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort in Disney World, most likely due to the fact that the restaurant only opened in 2015 and isn’t celebrating any special anniversaries this year, but we’ll be sure to keep an eye out. More Recent Disneyland Resort News! I Go to Disneyland Every Day and This Lunch Is My New ObsessionNEW Eats and Drinks Just Announced for Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki BarThe Disneyland Expansion Is Just Getting Started. Here’s What Might Come Next…Disneyland Pays $56,000 Settlement For Autopia Ride Vehicle EnginesThis Disneyland App CHANGE Just Made Visiting the Parks 10x Easier We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest Disneyland news, so stay tuned to DFB! REVIEW: This Disney World Hotel Spot Changed Its Menu, and It’s NOT What We Expected 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Which of these items are you most excited for? Tell us in the comments! View the full article
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Universal Studios Orlando is seeing a good amount of construction across its three parks, with most of it happening at Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure. Universal Studios Florida The Lost Continent at Islands of Adventure is getting close to being demolished to make way for something new, and a bunch of other ride closures have been happening across the parks. Now, Universal has announced that ANOTHER attraction is closing, and it’s going to be gone for a while! Both Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp and Po Live!, located in DreamWorks Land at Universal Studios Florida, are closing down for a good chunk of the summer. Both of the Kung Fu Panda attractions will be closed from May 18th through July 3rd. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp DreamWorks Land is a fun area geared towards kids based on some iconic animated films. If you have kiddos, Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp is a great spot to bring them to during a park day. It features a playground and a water attraction. The closing of the area takes away from a good activity offering for little ones at Universal. Po’s Kung Fu Training Camp Despite the Kung Fu Panda attractions being closed, the remainder of DreamWorks land will remain open. You’ll still be able to check out the Trolls Trollercoaster, Poppy’s Playground, Shrek’s Swamp Meet, DreamWorks Imagination Celebration, and more. Shrek and Princess Fiona If you have a Universal trip coming up this summer, you may want to be aware of other closures that might throw a wrench in your plans. Take a look at the list of closures: Universal Studios Finnegan’s Bar and Grill closed through Winter 2026 Universal Orlando’s Horror Make-Up Show closed through Winter 2026 MEN IN BLACK Alien Attack closed from June 1st through June 16th Universal Orlando Islands of Adventure Jurassic Park River Adventure closed through November 19th Pteranodon Flyers closed through May 21st Me Ship, The Olive closed from May 26th through June 9th Epic Universe Viking Training Camp in Isle of Berk closed through May 22nd Jurassic Park is closed We’ll be keeping an eye out for any more construction news happening at Universal Studios. If you have a trip to Universal coming up, follow us at the Disney Food Blog so you have all the latest updates, making your trip that much easier. Something NEW Just Landed at Universal Orlando Read more: DFB's complete guide to Universal’s Epic Universe >> Are you going to Universal this summer? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Epic Universe opened almost one year ago and has quickly become a fan-favorite Universal Park. One of the most loved aspects of this park is the incredible characters. Between the iconic Toothless meet-and-greet and the wandering characters in each land, the characters have really brought the park to life. Celestial Park in Epic Universe And we have some exciting news. One of our favorite original characters is officially getting a meet-and-greet in Celestial Park! Universal just posted this teaser video, and we are already SO excited. He looks so cute, and we cannot wait to meet him. Captain Cacao is one of several original characters at Celestial Park that have become a favorite among guests. Captain Cacao! He originated at Moonship Chocolates & Celestial Sweets, and of course, because Universal Creative pays attention to everything, he was given a backstory. According to the Captain Cacao lore, he travels the cosmos aboard his ship, the Joei de Ganache (which is made of marshmallows, obviously), and travels through space in search of rare treats to bring back to his shop. So many sweets! Come on, how could you not be obsessed with him? Currently, Universal sells Captain Cacao plushes, which are, of course, very popular, and we know that this meet-and-greet is going to be a popular spot as well. So cute! So if you need to meet the cutest bear in the cosmos, take a trip over to Celestial Park starting on May 22nd! Celestial Park We make sure to keep you updated on all Universal news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Our FAVORITE Park Bags are Coming to Epic Universe! 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW How do you feel about this new meet-and-greet? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Disney fans are very good at having opinions. Connections Eatery We have opinions about the best EPCOT festival booth. We have opinions about whether School Bread is elite or merely surviving on nostalgia and toasted coconut. We have opinions about which bathroom is weirdly superior. We are complicated people, and sometimes that means trying to balance a tray of food while silently begging a family of six to stop treating a quick-service table like EPCOT headquarters. And lately, one EPCOT restaurant trend has been making Disney fans twitch harder than a My Disney Experience app on a low battery. We’re talking about holding a quick-service table before your party has food. It’s all outdoor seating, right? You know the scene. You’re at EPCOT. Maybe you just picked up food at Connections Eatery, Sunshine Seasons, Regal Eagle Smokehouse, La Cantina de San Angel, or another busy quick-service spot. You’ve got your tray. You’ve got drinks. You’ve got a kid melting into the floor, or maybe you are the kid melting into the floor emotionally. No judgment. Then you scan the dining room and realize every table is “taken,” except half of them are occupied by people who do not yet have food. Some are waiting for a Mobile Order. Some are holding down the fort while another family member stands in line. Some appear to have moved into the restaurant and are moments away from receiving mail there. This is what the stink eye was invented for. The Table-Saving Problem On paper, we get why people do it. Disney World is expensive. EPCOT is crowded. Florida heat is not a weather condition so much as a personal threat. If you’re traveling with kids, older adults, someone with mobility needs, or anyone who has reached that dangerous “I need food in the next three minutes or I become folklore” stage, grabbing a table early can feel like a smart strategy. Sunshine Seasons seating But when a restaurant is slammed, that strategy can gum up the whole system. The problem is not one parent sitting with a toddler for a few minutes while another adult grabs food. The problem is when whole tables are occupied for 15, 20, 30 minutes or more before food arrives. During that time, other guests who already have food are wandering around with trays, trying not to spill drinks, drop fries, or enter a new villain era. Crowds during lunch Quick-service restaurants work best when people cycle through them. You order, you pick up food, you sit, you eat, you clean up, you move on. It’s not exactly poetry, but it works. When tables become holding pens for people who are not eating yet, the flow breaks. Suddenly, guests with food have nowhere to go, Cast Members are dealing with frustrated diners, and the whole restaurant starts to feel less like a convenient meal stop and more like an airport gate during a thunderstorm. EPCOT Makes This Worse This issue can happen anywhere in Disney World, but EPCOT is especially vulnerable to it. Seating First, EPCOT is a food park. Yes, it has rides, shows, shops, characters, and enough walking to make your calves write a resignation letter, but food is one of the park’s main events. Between quick-service restaurants, festival booths, lounges, bakeries, snack stands, and “I just want one more thing from Japan” detours, people are eating constantly. Second, EPCOT can be brutal when it comes to weather. A cool indoor seat with AC is not just nice. It can feel like a tiny miracle with laminate flooring. Seating at Connections Eatery Third, EPCOT has several dining spaces that also function as natural rest stops. Connections Eatery is a big one because it has indoor seating, lots of foot traffic, and nearby charging access. That makes it extremely useful, but it also makes it extremely tempting for guests to camp out there when they are not actually eating. And listen, we understand the instinct. Sometimes your phone is dying, your feet hurt, your party has scattered across World Celebration like confetti, and you need a place to regroup. We are not immune to the siren song of air conditioning. There’s so much seating and, best of all, OUTLETS! But if the restaurant is packed and people with food can’t find a table, the polite move is to keep it moving. The Charging-Port Campout This brings us to another EPCOT restaurant trend fans are getting tired of: using restaurant tables as charging stations for long stretches of time. Again, we get it. Disney World practically requires your phone now. You need it for Mobile Order, Lightning Lane planning, maps, dining reservations, wait times, photos, group texts, payment, and emotionally checking out by scrolling for 90 seconds in a corner. A dead phone at Disney World is not ideal. It’s basically a tiny rectangular crisis. Wireless charging But there is a difference between plugging in for a few minutes while you eat and setting up an entire charging campsite at a dining table during peak lunch. If your table has no food, no drinks, no active meal, and three phones plugged in while guests with trays orbit the room like sad little satellites, that’s not great. Charging station inside Disney Springs restaurant Bring a portable charger. Bring two if your phone battery has the survival instincts of a churro in August. Use FuelRods if that’s your system. Take advantage of seating areas that are not actively needed for dining when you can. But don’t treat a busy restaurant table like your personal EPCOT co-working lounge unless you’re also actually eating there. Best Portable Chargers for Disney The Mobile Order Blob Mobile Order is one of the best tools Disney has given us. It can save time, prevent hangry decisions, and reduce the number of people standing in traditional ordering lines trying to decode a menu while a line forms behind them. But we need to discuss the Mobile Order pickup blob. This happens when guests crowd around the pickup counter before their order is ready. They hover. They form a vague human wall. They stare intensely at Cast Members. They check their phones with the urgency of someone waiting for lab results. Lines at Pecos Bill in Magic Kingdom Meanwhile, guests who have actually received the “your order is ready” notification can’t get to the counter. Please do not become part of the Mobile Order blob. If your app says your order is still being prepared, stand off to the side. Let the people with ready orders reach the pickup area. When your number is called, or your app tells you it’s ready, then go forward. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Mobile Order Pick-Up This is not just etiquette. It helps Cast Members do their jobs and keeps the pickup area from turning into a tiny food-scented barricade. We Cracked the Mobile Order Code in Disney World The Diaper Situation We Cannot Believe We Have To Mention Now we need to tread carefully, because traveling to Disney World with babies and toddlers is not easy. Parents are doing a lot. There are strollers, snacks, naps, sunscreen, tiny shoes that vanish into another realm, and the constant threat of someone needing a bathroom immediately after you just left one. We have sympathy. We really do. However. Do not change a diaper on a restaurant table. Do not change a diaper on a dining bench. Do not do it where people eat. Connections Eatery seating This should not be a controversial stance. This is not “Disney etiquette.” This is basic civilization on a vacation tour. Disney World has Baby Care Centers in all four theme parks, including EPCOT, and those facilities are designed for feeding, changing, nursing, and helping families with little ones. Most restrooms also have changing stations. Are they always exactly where you want them to be at the precise second disaster strikes? No. Of course not. Babies do not respect logistics. Baby Center But restaurant tables and benches are not changing tables. They are where someone else is about to place chicken tenders. Please, for the love of Remy, use the proper facilities. The Lingering After the Meal Thing There’s one more trend that deserves a mention: finishing your meal and then camping at the table long after you’re done when the restaurant is obviously packed. We’re not saying you need to inhale your food and sprint away like you’ve stolen something. Disney days are long. People need breaks. Sometimes you need a few extra minutes to cool down, check the app, regroup, or explain to your family why no, we are not waiting 85 minutes for Frozen Ever After right now. Seating But once the food is gone, the trash is gathered, and everyone is just scrolling, it’s worth looking around. Are people waiting with trays? Are families hovering near trash cans because there are no tables? Is a Cast Member doing that polite-but-haunted scan of the dining room? That’s your cue. Pack up, toss your trash, and move along. There are other places to sit in EPCOT that don’t involve occupying a dining table someone else needs for an actual meal. What Should You Do Instead? If you’re at EPCOT and trying not to become someone else’s vacation villain, here are a few simple rules. If your party does not have food yet, try not to take a table during peak mealtimes unless there’s a real need. If someone in your group genuinely needs to sit for health, mobility, or heat reasons, that’s different. Use common sense. The Disney gods do allow nuance. If you’re using Mobile Order, place the order early, hit “I’m Here” when you’re actually nearby, and wait away from the counter until your food is ready. If you need to charge your phone, use a portable charger whenever possible. A table with outlets is great when you are also eating. It is less great when you are guarding it for 45 minutes with one Diet Coke and a charging cable. If your child needs a diaper change, head to a restroom or the Baby Care Center. Yes, even if it’s inconvenient. Especially then. Dining room And if you’re finished eating and the restaurant is slammed, give your table back to the hungry masses. You will feel virtuous. Possibly smug. We support that. 6 Unspoken Rules for Character Dining in Disney World Disney Could Help, Too To be fair, this is not entirely on guests. Disney could make this easier by adding more shaded seating, more non-restaurant rest areas, more charging spots outside of dining spaces, and more consistent seating management at the busiest quick-service restaurants. When Cast Members help direct traffic or limit seating to guests with food during peak times, restaurants tend to work better. Regal Eagle Because sometimes people are not trying to be rude. They are hot, tired, overwhelmed, hungry, and trying to survive a day that started at 6:47AM with a Lightning Lane strategy meeting. Still, a little awareness goes a long way. At EPCOT, where food is practically its own attraction, quick-service tables need to serve their actual purpose: giving people a place to eat. So yes, grab your food. Find a table. Enjoy your meal. Rest for a few minutes. Charge your phone if you can. Nobody is asking you to eat your Connections pizza while speed-walking toward Mission: SPACE. Open seating But if you’re holding a table with no food while other guests wander by clutching trays and losing hope, just know this: somewhere nearby, a Disney fan is giving you a stink eye powerful enough to light Spaceship Earth. The Table Turnover Truce Disney World works best when everybody remembers they are not the only people having an expensive, sweaty, overstimulating day. EPCOT quick-service restaurants are busy because people need food, shade, AC, phone battery, toddler triage, and a moment to stop pretending their shoes were a good choice. We get it. We live it. We have written entire emotional memoirs in our heads while waiting for a table with a tray in hand. Katsura Grill But the restaurant table situation only works when guests use those tables for eating, then move along when they’re done. That tiny bit of courtesy can make a huge difference for the next family, couple, solo traveler, or snack-goblin trying to sit down before their fries go cold. We’ll keep watching for more Disney restaurant trends, etiquette debates, and EPCOT dining chaos. In the meantime, keep following Disney Food Blog for the latest Disney food news, planning tips, and strongly held opinions about where you should and should not park your tray. The Best Restaurants in Disney World in 2025 Need Disney Restaurant Advice? We’ve Got EVERYTHING You Need to Know The ONLY Disney Dining Planning Tool You’ll Need Is Here – Get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining! See Our Complete Disney World Restaurants Guide The Best Magic Kingdom Restaurants The Best EPCOT Restaurant Restaurants The Best Hollywood Studios Restaurants The Best Animal Kingdom Restaurants The Best Disney Springs Restaurants Check Out Dozens of Disney Dining Tips and Tools Learn All About Tipping at Disney Restaurants How to Use Mobile Order in Disney World Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the latest Disney food news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Has this ever happened to you at Disney World? Tell us in the comments. View the full article
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Universal fans, we have some exciting news for you! If you love movies, then you have to make your way over to Universal Studios to check out the new Spielberg Summer Blockbuster Exhibit. Spielberg Summer Blockbusters Tribute Store Universal is known for these ultra-themed experiences, like the immersive experience Tribute Stores put together for Christmas, Mardi Gras, Halloween Horror Nights, and more. And this Exhibit has so many amazing props, costumes, and movie memorabilia you’ve come to expect from a themed Universal experience. This Exhibit is themed to all of your favorite iconic Steven Spielberg movies, and has so many great details and fun theming. First up, there is a room themed to Jaws and ET! Spielberg Summer Blockbusters: Jaws! You can see lots of Amity Island references as well as tons of cool Jaws merch on display, including Legos and an amazing Jaws license plate. More Jaws This room also had tons of fun ET details like this super cool display of the iconic bike scene! ET! There was also a display of old ET merch, including a hat and this amazing ET plush! More ET The next room was themed to Jurassic Park, and included a screen-used costume worn by Dr. Ellie Sattler. Jurassic Park Display And one for Dr. Ian Malcolm! More Jurassic Park Plus, there were lots of really cool Dinosaur models to check out. The theming of this room really was incredible. Jurassic Park Room The experience ends with a sneak peek at Spielberg’s all-new film Disclosure Day, which releases on June 12th! Disclosure Day This Exhibit was fantastic, and a must-visit if you’re a fan of Steven Spielberg’s films! This experience will be open all summer and is set to close on August 10th, so make sure to check it out while you can! Spielberg Exhibit We always make sure to keep you informed of all Disney and Universal news, so stay tuned to Disney Food Blog so you never miss anything! Here’s How You Can Get 2 FREE Days To Universal Orlando! 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Will you be checking out this Exhibit? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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November in Disney World is sneaky good. 2025 Food and Wine Classic It does not always get the same glowing fanfare as spring break, Halloween, or Christmas week, but seasoned Disney travelers know what is up. November is when the parks start pulling out the garland, the weather begins behaving like it has read the room, EPCOT is still feeding people around the world, and holiday parties start taking over the nighttime calendar. In other words, November is not just a Disney World month. It is a Disney World events buffet. And Disney experts know exactly where they want to be sleeping between all that eating, walking, shopping, show-watching, and pretending they are “just going to browse” the holiday merch. That hotel? The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort. The EPCOT Area Advantage The Swan and Dolphin are not technically Disney-owned hotels, but they sit right in one of the most valuable neighborhoods in Disney World: the EPCOT Resort Area. That means you are close to EPCOT, close to Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and close to the BoardWalk, which is basically Disney World’s version of “we were just going for a walk and somehow ended up with a drink and dessert.” Swan and Dolphin Hotel walkway to parks The resort offers water taxi access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios roughly every 20 to 25 minutes, or you can walk to both parks using the nearby pathways. It also offers shuttle bus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs. For a November trip, that location is a planning gift wrapped in very practical ribbon. The 5 Best Disney World Hotels for Introverts EPCOT Food & Wine Is Still Going If you are visiting in early or mid-November, EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival is still very much part of the conversation. In 2026, the festival runs from August 27 through November 21, and it includes Global Marketplaces, Eat to the Beat concerts, Emile’s Fromage Montage, Remy’s Ratatouille Hide & Squeak, and other returning festival fun, though specific offerings can change. EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival (2025) That makes the Swan and Dolphin especially useful because EPCOT is not a “pack a sherpa and emotionally prepare” situation from here. You can stroll over, eat a few festival bites, debate whether cheese is a food group, watch entertainment, and then escape back to your hotel without turning transportation into a second full-time job. We can’t wait for the booths to open! And if you have ever tried leaving EPCOT after fireworks with everyone else on property, you know why that walkable exit matters. It is not luxury. It is survival with nicer landscaping. 10 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival Menu Items We Bet $100 Will Be Back This Year There’s Another Food & Wine Event Right at the Hotel Here is where November at Swan and Dolphin gets even more interesting. The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic returns in 2026 for its 17th year, scheduled for November 20 and 21 from 5 PM to 9 PM each night. The event features gourmet dishes from award-winning chefs, wine, beer, spirits, live entertainment, seminars, and fireworks. The 2025 event Even better, event tickets include four full hours of unlimited food and beverage tastings, and a two-night bundle offers 10% savings for guests attending both nights. A discounted room rate is also available for Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve guests attending the event, based on availability, with proof of event ticket purchase required at check-in. Food and Wine Classic Drinks So yes, you could stay somewhere else and just show up. But staying at the resort turns the whole thing into a much easier weekend. Eat, sip, wander the causeway, enjoy the entertainment, and then simply go upstairs. No rideshare math. No “who is driving?” negotiations. No end-of-night transportation rodeo. That is the kind of planning detail Disney experts love because it makes the trip feel smoother without making the spreadsheet sprout another tab. Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Menus Hollywood Studios Holiday Nights Are Easier From Here November is also when Disney World starts tipping into full holiday mode. Disney has confirmed that Disney Jollywood Nights is returning to Hollywood Studios on select nights in 2026. This separately ticketed event brings holiday glam, themed entertainment, festive food and drinks, character greetings, and returning offerings inspired by the 2025 event, including Disney Holidays in Hollywood with Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy, What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along, and Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! Jollywood Nights This is another reason the Swan and Dolphin make sense. Hollywood Studios is one of the two parks you can reach by boat or walking path from the resort. So if your November plans include Jollywood Nights, you are not committing to a long post-party trek from the glamorous holiday event to the deeply unglamorous bus corral shuffle. Muppets Drinks! You can dress cute, eat snacks, enjoy the vintage Hollywood holiday energy, and return to your room with your dignity mostly intact. FULL REVIEWS: Every Exclusive Snack We Ate at Disney’s Jollywood Nights 2025 Magic Kingdom Holiday Parties Are Still in Play Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is also returning to Magic Kingdom on select nights in 2026, including festive treats and beverages, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show, and Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party map Now, Swan and Dolphin are not quite as convenient for Magic Kingdom as they are for EPCOT or Hollywood Studios. This is the part where we do not put on sparkly blinders and pretend everything is perfect. Transportation to Magic Kingdom from the Swan and Dolphin drops guests at the Transportation and Ticket Center, not right at the park entrance. Adorable! @natassialeeann on Instagram Still, if your trip includes one Magic Kingdom party night and several EPCOT or Hollywood Studios plans, Swan and Dolphin can still make a ton of sense. You just need to know where the convenience shines brightest. FULL REVIEW of All the Snacks We Had at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2025 You Still Get Some Big Disney Perks Another reason experts keep Swan and Dolphin in the conversation is the perk situation. Guests can receive Early Theme Park Entry at all four Disney World theme parks and access Extended Evening Hours on select nights in select parks, with valid admission and other requirements. Early Entry at EPCOT That matters in November because the calendar can get crowded fast. Holiday parties, festival weekends, Veterans Day travel, Thanksgiving travelers, and general “it’s finally not lava outside” energy can all push crowds upward. Extra time in the parks is not magic. It is math. And Disney experts love math when it means fewer people standing between them and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. The DFB Take Disney experts book Swan and Dolphin in November because it puts them in the middle of the good stuff. EPCOT Food & Wine is still running. The Swan and Dolphin Food & Wine Classic happens right at the resort. Hollywood Studios holiday events are easy to reach. Magic Kingdom’s Christmas party is still on the table. And the whole trip can feel a little less like “manage logistics until bedtime” and a little more like an actual vacation. Imagine that. Dolphin Hotel So if you are planning a November Disney World trip, do not overlook the Swan and Dolphin. It may not have the same name recognition as some Disney-owned Deluxe hotels, but for this particular season, it understands the assignment beautifully. Be sure to grab your tickets for the event and book your room soon before they are sold out. For Disney World news, dining reviews, and more, be sure to follow us at DFB! Here’s All the Information for the 2026 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Have you been to the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic? Tell us in the comments. View the full article
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Magic Kingdom is looking a little different right now as it gets ready for a busy park day! Magic Kingdom We wish we could tell you the difference in Magic Kingdom was a Piston Peak update, or at least SOMETHING for Villains Land, but that’s not the case. However, we are loving the decorations that Disney has put up to get ready for Memorial Day on May 25th! Memorial Day is just around the corner, and Disney World is ready! We recently went to Magic Kingdom and saw all of the flags and other decorations put up along Main Street U.S.A. Memorial Day decorations are up! They have bunting up on the Town Hall… Town Hall …as well as the train station! The train station has flags! The Town Square Theatre, where you meet Mickey Mouse, also has decor up! Town Square Theatre has decorations up! Memorial Day at Magic Kingdom is usually a busy day, and this year it could be busier! For starters, all the park’s attractions are open for the first time in a long time. Buzz Lightyear Space Rangers Spin and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad have both finally opened after lengthy refurbishments. Both attractions have brand-new elements, looks, and feels that guests are going to want to check out! Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Also, Memorial Day is right before a big day at Magic Kingdom! Disney World’s Cool Kids’ Summer officially begins on May 26th, bringing more characters and fun activities throughout Disney World for kids of all ages. Cool Kid Summer in 2025! One of the things coming for Cool Kids’ Summer is Jessie’s Roundup — a fun craft and dance party with Jessie, Woody, and all their pals. The party will take place inside The Diamond Horseshoe restaurant, which has officially closed and will remain closed throughout the summer. The Diamond Horseshoe is closed! The agents at Small World Vacations know how to save money on your Disney Vacation! When you book your trip with Small World Vacations, their experienced agents monitor your reservation for possible future savings. They also compare discounts and figure out which one works best for your travel party, dates, resort, and touring plans. And they share expert tips and first-hand advice with you about your magical vacation. We’re looking forward to Memorial Day and the rest of the summer at Disney World. There’s a lot going on at Magic Kingdom, as well as the rest of Disney World, for the summer. In fact, May 26th, the day after Memorial Day, is a BIG day across the four parks! For more Disney news and updates, make sure to stay tuned to the Disney Food Blog. Why May 26th Is a HUGE Day for Disney Fans 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW Do you have Disney World plans on Memorial Day? Let us know in the comments! View the full article
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Disneyland has been hit with a $5 million lawsuit due to its new facial recognition technology. Disneyland A Disneyland guest is suing the theme park by alleging Disney didn’t properly disclose the use of the technology and that it violates privacy rights. The guest visited with her children in May 2026. Summer Christine Duffield is claiming Disneyland and Disney California Adventure violated several laws on her May 10th visit to Disneyland. The claim alleges that privacy, competition, and consumer protection laws were broken because Disney is collecting “biometric data” from their visitors thanks to the facial recognition technology, according to The Orange County Register. Facial recognition sign from April 2026 In the complaint, Duffield says, “Disney does not adequately disclose the use of their biometric collection, so consumers — which almost always include children — have no idea that Disney is collecting this highly sensitive data. Guests should be able to expressly opt in to this type of sensitive facial recognition technology with written consent — the onus of privacy rights should not be on the victim.” The technology has been in place since April 2026, and the lines are optional at the time of writing. Disneyland entrance scanners Disney did comment on the situation through spokesperson Jessica Jakary by saying, “We respect and protect our guests’ personal information and dispute the plaintiff’s claims, which we believe are without merit.” Disney’s use of facial recognition technology expanded in April 2026 to speed up lines and reduce ticket misuse. The optional lines that do not use this technology are marked by signs with a silhouetted person with a strike through it, as seen above. Disneyland Disney has shared that it deletes all biometric numerical values within 30 days of use. The only exceptions are when the data must be maintained for legal or fraud-prevention purposes. Disney previously tested facial recognition technology in Orlando back in 2021. Disney World tested the technology in 2021 Facial recognition technology has recently expanded in places like airports, Universal theme parks, and more. We will be following this lawsuit as it develops. You can read about more Disney lawsuits below. Be sure to keep following DisneyFoodBlog for more Disney news and updates. NEWS: Disney Hit With $5 Million Lawsuit Over Facial Recognition TechnologyDisney World Sued for Bedbug Case at All-Star SportsLocal Unions Warn That Disney World’s Property Tax Lawsuits Could Raise Prices in the CommunityNEWS: Disney Set To Pay $10 Million Over Alleged Children’s Privacy Law ViolationsLaw Firm Drops Lawsuit Against Disney Over Use of Steamboat Willie in Parody-Style Ads 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! GET YOUR GUIDE NOW View the full article
