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Toledo — Tapas, Steak, and Seafood is Gran Destino Tower’s rooftop table service restaurant, and when we say rooftop, know that it feels every bit of its 15-story height! But if you head up there to the top, you will be rewarded. Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood Because that altitude serves one spectacular purpose: to provide diners with one-of-a-kind views of Walt Disney World, including (when you time it just right!) glimpses of nighttime spectaculars at not one but TWO Parks! And the interior design and menu aren’t half bad, either. Atmosphere We’re providing you with a first look and photo tour here, but know that we will be dining at Toledo on its opening night (July 9) and bringing you a FULL REVIEW from that dinner service. So keep watching for that! Toledo — Tapas, Steak, and Seafood is an airy, open space designed to maximize its lofty location. Large windows feature an arch design that is echoed throughout the Tower — including on its exteriors, as seen here from the inside looking out. Toledo Dining Room The vaulted ceiling gives the sense of an atrium, and we were told the backlighting of this ceiling can and will change (so it’s not all pink, all the time). (Remind anyone else of Enchanted Garden on the Disney Cruise Line — ayup.) In our full review, we’ll try to capture this effect and its impact on the mood of the dining space. Vaulted Ceiling The ceiling design is a bit of surrealism mixed with mosaic art — similar to the stained glass mosaic that brightens the space in Barcelona Lounge in the lower level of the Tower’s lobby. Vaulted Ceiling Another major design element: two large olive trees that celebrate one of Spain’s greatest treasures: the olive and the oil it produces. Olive Tree The olive trees are so tall that they reach the colorful ceiling, creating almost a canopy effect in the center of the restaurant. Olive Tree meets Ceiling Art Overhead lights in some of the seating areas add shimmer to the space as well as ambient lighting after dark. Lighting Additional uplights in the coffered ceilings create even more play on light and shadow, adding visual interest from ceiling to floor. Lighting Speaking of which, just as we often remind readers to look up for ceiling details, at Toledo, you’ll want to look down, too! Flooring design varies throughout the restaurant, with repeating geometric patterns mixing with Moorish floral tiles. Flooring Designs The flooring design is a reminder that although Toledo offers a lot of glamour and the feeling of being on top of the world, it’s also a playful space. The primary design style is the Spanish modernism seen throughout the Tower, and in this space it works to create juxtapositions between bright colors — as in the ceiling — and graphic neutrals in the floor, as well as interplaying materials like wood, fabric, and metal. Toledo Dining Room Seating at Toledo is variable, which livens the place up a bit! Thick wood table tops rest on metal stands or legs, and padded chairs provide a little added comfort. Seating at Toledo Though some seating is interior, views can be had from any location. Seating in Toledo Of course we imagine many will request a coveted window seat, and the reward for that will be sweeping views. Seating at Toledo Along a wall of wine storage, a series of curved, bright blue banquettes face into the restaurant. Banquette Seating Wait Station Also of note: Toledo has some private dining spaces. We stepped inside the Sunrise Room and found comfortable seating, lush window treatments, and beautiful glass light fixtures. Sunrise Private Dining On our visit, tables were arranged as four-tops, and all of the seating matched within the space. Sunrise Room The decor is fairly nondescript, considering the dynamic space in the main dining room, but the carpeting and chandeliers offer some energy and color. Sunrise Room And, of course, there are views. Floor-to-ceiling windows let in lots of light. Sunrise Room And an accent wall with a mirror design, console, and television make the space practical for meetings or presentations as required. Sunrise Room Eats On our first visit to Toledo during a Media Preview, Toledo’s Chef Robby (of Tiffins fame) came out to speak a bit about the restaurant’s menu. Plated dishes were available to photograph but not to taste. Toledo Plated Dishes The Artisanal Manchego Cheese Vertical offers a taste of several ages of Manchego cheese. Plated Dishes at Toledo Cazuelas are dishes cooked in a pot (or, in this case, served in a pot to replicate that traditional cooking style). The Stuffed Piquillo Pepper is filled with goat cheese. Plated Dishes at Toledo And Charred Octopus gets a lift from chimichurri sauce. Plated Dishes at Toledo The Hanger Steak rests on crushed new potatoes and is vibrant with the greens of charred peppers and salsa verde. Plated Dishes at Toledo The Scallops come with fava hummus and feta powder (as well as some beautifully seared shellfish)! Plated Dishes at Toledo The ‘Toledo Tapas Bar’ is single dessert described as a “progressive dessert” of chocolate, coffee, raspberry, and lemon. Plated Dishes at Toledo The Classic Crema Catalana celebrates the Valencia orange. Plated Dishes at Toledo Also of note: an on-stage Tapas kitchen will produce small plates to order for diners. Tapas Kitchen On display in front of the Tapas kitchen were various meats, cheeses, and breads. Tapas Kitchen Display Some of these items are labeled, much to the delight of foodies, we suspect. Which would you prefer: a piece of 8-Month Manchego or 3-Month Manchego? (Hint: the answer is always both — and you’ll get to try them on that Vertical Cheese plate!) Tapas Kitchen Display Overall Our overall impression of Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood is that it’s an extraordinary space with thoughtful design elements and a respect for both the dining experience and the other big draw: the World outside the windows. We look forward to trying the restaurant during its first dinner service tomorrow evening, when we’ll bring you a FULL REVIEW and even more photos of the space. Will you try Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood on your next visit to Walt Disney World? Let us know what you think about the birds’ eye view from this brand new rooftop restaurant! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited to a media preview of Gran Destino Tower. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ Related posts: 2019 Disney Restaurant ULTIMATE GUIDE: What You Need To Know About EVERY Restaurant Opening In Disney World and Disneyland in 2019! PHOTO TOUR and Details: Coronado Springs’ Gran Destino Tower and ROOMS! at Walt Disney World Resort! We’re LIVE from the NEW Gran Destino Tower at Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort! View the full article

Another movie trailer? Disney keeps bestowing these gifts on us, and it isn’t even our birthday! ©Walt Disney Studios After the release of the first teaser trailer of Mulan, we’re really hyped for the live-action films coming to the big screen soon. It’s no wonder that Disney is keeping the spinning wheel rolling as they let the official Maleficent: Mistress of Evil trailer fly into view TODAY. This curious little beastie of a sequel picks up years after the events of its predecessor, Maleficent. Aurora has accepted a proposal, which will form a union between two kingdoms and grant her the title of the Queen. However, Maleficent refuses to let the marriage take place, causing a rift between the child she raised and herself. When new alliances and enemies are formed, a battle emerges in the kingdom. Maleficent and Aurora must fight to protect the moors, themselves, and the ones they love in this action-packed film. The original cast returns in Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, including Angelina Jolie as Maleficent, Elle Fanning as Aurora, and Sam Riley as Diaval. Directed by Joachim Rønning, the film is slated to premiere October 18th, 2019. Don’t prick your finger on a spinning wheel and sleep on this one, you guys!! Are you as excited as we are to see Maleficent make a high-flying return? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: IT’S HERE! The NEW Live-Action Mulan Trailer Brings Honor to Us All! Halle Bailey To Star As Ariel In Live-Action Version of The Little Mermaid! REVIEW: NEW Pepperoni Pizza Spring Rolls Debut in Disney World! (And You WILL Want These.) View the full article

I’m LIVING for all The Little Mermaid merch right now. While I already have 20+ thingamabobs, Disney just keeps tempting me with the release of amazing Ariel items. Despite the new jewelry, Minnie Ears, and a hat, I can’t help but say: “no big deal, I want more!” And, Disney World is absolutely providing with the latest The Little Mermaid Magic Band. Bubbling up at the Frontier Trading Post in Magic Kingdom, the limited edition The Little Mermaid 30th Anniversary Magic Band is worth flipping your fins over! The light blue commemorative band features Sebastian, Flounder, a Dinglehopper, and Ariel in her famous “Part of Your World” pose. I am in love with the gorgeous artwork on this one, you guys! You can purchase it in-store for $29.99 or online at Shop Disney. Have you ever seen anything so wonderful in your entire life? What do you think about The Little Mermaid 30th Anniversary Magic Band? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Dinglehopper Alert: Little Mermaid Alex and Ani MERMAID HAIR Bracelet Spotted In Disney World! The NEW Mermaid Minnie Ears Are A HIT — and Maybe Selling OUT?? — in Disney World! REVIEW: A New Ingredient Makes These Disney World Limited Time Fries Even HOTTER! View the full article

“The salt on my skin and the wind in my hair” are both really giving me those beach hair vibes. I mean, who wouldn’t want to have gorgeous waves like Ariel’s? (The only hairstyle I want tbh) ©Walt Disney Studios And the Little Mermaid herself (and her HAIR!) is immortalized yet again in this crave-worthy charm that’s debuted in Disney World! The new Alex and Ani and The Little Mermaid merch is making me want to do a huge Disney accessory haul. 18k Gold and Mermaid Ears for lyyyfe!! Just when I think my shopping spree fever has dwindled for a moment, I’m hit with the fact that now Alex, Ani, and Ariel are doing the cutest BRACELET (give me all the accessories!!) collab together. Twinkling on the shelves of the Emporium in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, the Alex and Ani Mermaid Hair, Don’t Care Bracelet is giving me all the feels. Complete with a Dinglehopper, Ariel is looking as sassy as ever with her cascading red waves. You can purchase it today for $49.99. Give yourselves some beach waves to match! The Mermaid Hair, Don’t Care Bracelet is a great, shiny whazit to wear in and out of the parks. You can seriously pull it off anywhere — you’re just that fabulous. Have you picked up the new Alex and Ani bracelet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Related posts: The NEW Mermaid Minnie Ears Are A HIT — and Maybe Selling OUT?? — in Disney World! REVIEW: A New Ingredient Makes These Disney World Limited Time Fries Even HOTTER! What’s NEW In Magic Kingdom This Week!! (Spoiler Alert — LOTS.) View the full article

Happy Monday friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re talking about the 16 most ridiculously awesome Disney hotel rooms! The Grand Suite at the Grand Floridian is on our list! Amazing Disney Imagineering doesn’t stop at the theme parks! Today we’re showing you some of the most amazing Disney hotel rooms and suites from around the world! Get ready for some serious hotel room envy! And if you love this video, there’s plenty more for you to enjoy over on our DFB YouTube Channel! By the way, have you subscribed yet? If you hit the button below, you can subscribe to the channel and never miss a single episode! So check out the video and then let us know: What is your dream room at a Disney hotel? Related posts: ALL the LIMITED TIME TREATS Coming to Disney World and Disneyland for MICKEY’S 90TH BIRTHDAY Celebration!! News: Celebrate Mickey’s Birthday with Special Disney World Treats This Weekend Only! DFB Video: 15 Disney World Hotel Hacks! View the full article

IT’S FINALLY PIZZA TIME! I’ve been W.A.I.T.I.N.G. for these to show up at the Magic Kingdom, my friends, and they’re HERE! They’re really HERE! Let’s GO! The Pepperoni Pizza Spring Rolls have finally made a sizzling entrance at the Adventureland Egg Roll Wagon in Magic Kingdom. We’ve had cuban spring rolls, cheeseburger spring rolls (almost as good as Pizza), and more, but ever since indulging in those pizza spring rolls at the Disney California Adventure Food and Wine Festival this year I’ve been waiting for them to come to Disney World! The inside of the flaky roll is stuffed with plenty of mozzarella cheese and pepperoni. It comes with marinara sauce for dipping (of course). And the flavors are all THERE! Surprisingly, the Pepperoni Pizza Spring Rolls weren’t as greasy you’d expect (even though I totally have room for a little grease with my pizza), and this was a major plus because the outside stayed crispy, even with the addition of the marinara sauce. I think I’ve gone to pizza heaven! You can buy 2 spring rolls and the marinara sauce for $7.50. Have you tried the Pepperoni Pizza Spring Rolls yet? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: REVIEW: A New Ingredient Makes These Disney World Limited Time Fries Even HOTTER! DFB Guide Tip: 3 Disney World Snacks Big Enough to Be Meals! REVIEW: New Dulce de Leche Cupcake Version at Disney World’s Contempo Cafe! View the full article

It’s finally time to step inside Gran Destino Tower, the newest addition to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort! We’ve been anticipating the opening of this massive tower since the project was announced over two years ago! Gran Destino Tower In this post, we’ll take you on a photo tour through the lobby and main public areas as well as through the tower resort rooms! Note that we’ll be doing full photo tours and reviews of all the restaurants and other public spaces as well, so stay tuned! You can always return to our “LIVE” post to see more photos and get links to the other full photo tours! OK, here we go! Gran Destino Tower Exterior When barricades came down recently, guests and visitors strolling the resort got a look at the exterior of the new Tower. This includes landscaping that makes use of palm trees and grasses, driving home the tropical feel of the Resort. Gran Destino Tower The Tower’s exterior design elements merge natural colors with metal accents. Shades of brown and ochre are in keeping with the look of buildings throughout the Resort, so while the Tower certainly stands out for its sheer size, it does blend in terms of colors and tone. Gran Destino Tower But we’ve been looking at the exterior of the 545-room Tower for years (really!), so let’s go INSIDE Gran Destino Tower for the very first time! Gran Destino Tower Lobby The Gran Destino Tower lobby will, starting tomorrow, be the main check-in area for all of Coronado Springs Resort. Gran Destino Lobby The lobby area is truly exquisite, with rich rood and metal accents playing on a largely light and airy, marble-feel foundation. Lantern Details The front desk area and concierge are anchored with marble desks studded with down-lit wood-style decorative tile. The backdrops are bright and sophisticated. Gran Destino Tower Front Desk Front Desk and Concierge Details Backlit Screens The main lobby is on a higher floor than the Barcelona Lobby Bar and Lounge. You’ll check in on this floor, then descend down to the lobby bar and lounge area. This separation is nice for the families checking in so they’re not wading through a lively bar crowd during their first experience at the resort. Upper Level Lobby Balcony Overlooks Barcelona Lounge and Lago Dorado Barcelona Lounge and an exit to Lago Dorado are on the ground floor below. Looking over Barcelona Lounge Gran Destino Tower Lobby Area Grand Staircase The elevator area is clean and smartly decorated with Spanish accents and strong carpet colors and designs. Elevator Banks Note that this elevator system is a lot like the one you’ll encounter at Disneyland’s Paradise Pier Resort! Elevator Design You select your floor, and then the elevator tells you where to board. Elevator Touch Pad Gran Destino Tower Rooms & Suites Gran Destino Tower boasts 545 rooms, 50 of which are suites. And while Coronado Springs Resort as a whole is known for catering to convention guests, Gran Destino Tower’s rooms and suites are absolutely kitted out for the business traveler. Gran Destino Tower Room When entering the room, a sliding barn door conceals the entrance to the bathroom. It’s wood and metal details are in keeping with the Spanish modern design. This is the basic layout for Disney’s Contemporary Resort rooms, and don’t mimic Coronado Springs’ original rooms with a vanity area outside of the actual bathroom. This gives the rooms a more deluxe feel already. Bathroom Barn Door Bathroom Note that we’re not seeing a LOT of hidden Mickey touches in these rooms, but your sliding door may have a friendly face… Hidden Mickey on Bathroom Door The large stand-up shower is on your right as you step into the bathroom, where tile is used on floors and walls. Gran Destino Shower Note that there is no bathtub in these rooms. This is a direction Disney World has been going recently with its room renovations. It’s a little upsetting for families with small children who really do depend on those bathtubs to wash the little ones. But for business travelers, this is preferable most of the time. Showerhead Disney’s committed to reducing plastic waste across its resorts and parks, and these refillable amenities are one of the main outcomes of that commitment. While you won’t see these used yet in most deluxe resorts, you do see them here in Gran Destino Tower and in other moderate and value resort hotels in Disney World. Refillable Toiletries There are two sets of these hooks in the main bathroom — one next to the shower and the other near the water closet. Two sets of hooks in the main bathroom Note, too, that there are four outlets — two on either side of the double vanity. Outlets The double vanity consists of two separate sinks, granite countertops, Moorish-style tile backsplash, and a large mirror. As is the case at Contemporary Resort as well, there is PRECIOUS little counter space here. So families who are used to taking up plenty of space with their toiletries will need to downsize. Vanity But storage beneath the sinks is generous. This is also where you’ll find the Conair hair dryer. Storage Hair Dryer Lighting in the bathroom isn’t great for pics, but it’s good for getting ready to conquer the World! Lighting is embedded in the frame around the mirror. Lighting And an adjustable magnifying make-up mirror is also lighted. Vanity Mirror H20+ products are available (not pictured: Sea Salt bar soap). H20+ Products The water closet is accessible to the left of the entrance via a space-saving pocket door. Pocket Door for Water Closet Water Closet There are two towel racks inside the WC, loaded with towels for your stay. Two towel racks And in case you were wondering, Coronado is an over-the-roll establishment. Toilet Paper Artwork over the commode classes things up. Artwork in water closet Back in the bedroom and living space, the name of the game is warm wood tones. A large armoire stands to the right, adjacent to a desk space. Armoire Closet Space Guests will find the Coronado Springs dry cleaning service order form as well as a plastic, standard-issue laundry bag inside the closet. Hangers, Dry Cleaning An ironing board and safe are located inside the closet as well. Ironing Board You’ll find the iron has its own little house! Iron And extra pillows and blankets are available if needed. Extra Pillow and Blanket A small bench or luggage rest fills the space between the closet and the desk. Bench or Luggage Rack And here’s another area where we find the rooms focused on the business traveler: instead of a standard bureau, you’ll find this long desk console. A mini-fridge is concealed behind one cabinet door, and above that a Keurig coffee maker with pods, an ice bucket, and glasses (mugs, paper cups with lids, and drinking glasses) are available. There are a couple of drawers for clothing in the console. Desk area with Mini Fridge, Coffee Maker, Shelving, and more Mini Fridge Concealment Mini Fridge Coffee Maker and Pods Porcelain Mugs, disposable cups, and small glasses The desk space beyond those conveniences is generous. A tiny (like seriously tiny) table lamp provides some task lighting. The lamp has two plugs and two USB ports. Desk Space Desk lamp The desk chair features lovely upholstery, but it’s not designed for comfort… . Desk Chair Above the desk, a personalized smart TV plays background music (elevator music, basically, but curiously not Disney music). Note that the TV is personalized with your family’s name on it. Personalized Smart Television You can also connect your devices and magic bands so that you can view photopass pictures on your room TV. Room Remote By the end of the year, the interactive screens will be in all Coronado Springs Resort rooms, but for now they’re exclusive to the tower. When you connect your device, you can stream from ipods and use Hulu for streaming. Smart TV Connection at Gran Destino Tower Smart TV at Gran Destino Tower Note that Elsa can even read you a bedtime story! Disney Movie Choices at Gran Destino Tower Just past the desk is a small sitting area with a lovely burnt orange armchair and a small side table with a lamp. Seating area Seating Area Side Table A large picture window with sheer and opaque curtains covers the exterior wall. But if you’ve got 11th floor views, throw those curtains open! Window Treatments and VIEWS! In this view, you can see Three Bridges lounge and restaurant there in the middle of the lake. To your immediate left is El Centro, where the resort’s former lobby was located, and where you’ll find the counter service location. (You can also see Expedition Everest!) View from Gran Destino Tower Room To the right, you’ll see the resort’s main Dig Site pool and the Cabanas room village. Room View to the Right The curtains feature this pattern, a mix of neutrals and burnt orange. These are prettier from afar. Curtains The queen size platform beds in Gran Destino feature a patterned white covering and four pillows. Queen Beds with Platform Platform Bed and Laminate Floor Interestingly, I’ve seen some duvet covers with Mickeys on them in other resort rooms, so it really does look like Gran Destino is de-disneyfying these rooms considerably. Bedding Pattern The headboards are truly works of art, with carved wood and padded orange accents. Headboard Design Ambient lighting is embedded in the top of the wooden headboard (controlled by a switch near the side table). Lighting in Headboard A surprising feature: the beds have built-in reading lamps! No more waking everyone else up when you just. can’t. sleep. because DISNEY! Built-In Reading Light Built-In Reading Light The shared side table features a large lamp, a phone, and other typical room essentials. Note that this lamp has two plugs AND two USB ports for nighttime (or naptime) charging. Side Table between the beds Lamp, phone, remote, and more! Tower Room Phone Don’t forget the room’s best feature, though. In this shot out the window, you can see the resort’s main Dig Site pool area. Looking back at the view! Also note that there’s a full-length mirror… sort of. It’s on this wall and blocked a bit by the bed, so you’ll have to get creative for that outfit check. Full-Length Mirror And in case you were wondering, it’s 72 degrees fahrenheit. But you have full control of your room’s temperature through this device. FYI: It’s 72 degrees Gran Destino Tower Dining Dining at Gran Destino Tower brings three new establishments for eating and drinking: Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood is the Tower’s rooftop restaurant, Dahlia Lounge sits adjacent to Toledo on the rooftop, and Barcelona Lounge serves a dual purpose in the Tower’s lobby. Gran Destino Tower Barcelona Lounge We’re bringing you inside each of these dining locations today! Click on over to our We’re LIVE from Gran Destino Tower post where we’ll link up all of our posts — including food and first looks at each dining locale! Follow along as we go LIVE to explore everything Gran Destino Tower has to offer! What are you most excited to explore at Gran Destino Tower? Let us know in the comments! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited to a media preview of Gran Destino Tower. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ Related posts: We’re LIVE from the NEW Gran Destino Tower at Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort! What’s New at Disney’s Caribbean Beach and Coronado Springs Resorts: Construction, Cupcakes, and MORE! How Do The 10 Biggest Disney News Stories This Year Affect Your Disney Trips in 2019? Find Out! View the full article

Can you believe it’s been almost 30 years since Disney Princess Ariel and her under the sea friends made their debut in “The Little Mermaid” on the big screen? On Nov. 17, the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic film will turn 30, but this summer we are making a splash at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort with a new collection celebrating the 30th anniversary! First up, featured above is a swimmingly fun Minnie Mouse ear headband featuring translucent sequins and vibrant seashells with the quote: “mermaid hair, don’t care!” Life truly is the bubbles under the sea, and now your life can be filled with them, too! Shell-abrate good times with a shell-encrusted bubble wand! Grab a mug or tumbler to be the girl who has everything and quench your thirst while you explore the world above! Got mermaid hair? Let the human world know that you’re no poor unfortunate soul when you rock this hat. Make Ariel “part of your world” and fill this fin-tastic journal with your wildest dreams. That isn’t everything, though. We have gadgets and gizmos aplenty, including a phone case, luggage tag, backpack and plenty of other thingamabobs to flip your fins to! All of these treasures and more are now available across merchandise locations at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort. Not visiting Disney Parks & Resorts anytime soon? You’re in luck! The Minnie ear headband is also available on shopDisney.com with more items from the collection coming soon. View the full article

Recently, we shared a special look at new limited-time merchandise celebrating the farewell season of “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” at Epcot. Now, you can purchase a new light-up Minnie headband that is joining the farewell merchandise collection! The Minnie headband features a stylish bow-tie with a firework-inspired design and light up ears. It’s now available at Mouse Gear in Epcot while supplies last. After grabbing your new “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” headband and collectibles, you can experience the nighttime spectacular like never before when you book the Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase with water-side viewing of the show. You can also book a delectable dinner with the IllumiNations Dining Package offering incredible views of the show from the lakefront patio at Rose & Crown Dining Room. As many of you know, for nearly 20 years, “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” has entertained millions as the nighttime spectacular that brought each day at Epcot to a thrilling close. The show’s final night will be Sept. 30, to make way for an all-new, limited-time spectacular, “Epcot Forever,” debuting Oct. 1. Keep reading the Disney Parks Blog in the months ahead for more on “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth” as well as more new experiences coming to Epcot. View the full article

Hola from Walt Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort, where we’re going INSIDE the brand new Gran Destino Tower! Gran Destino Tower in Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort We’re here for a media event today and tomorrow, and we can’t wait to share our FIRST LOOK at this new location! Come with us! Coronado Springs Resort is a moderate resort, which, in Disney speak, means medium-priced (not “deluxe,” and not “value”). Until now, the hotel has been a sprawling, sleepy resort, with clusters of buildings representing three types of housing found in the Southwest and Mexico — casitas (city-dwelling), cabanas (beach dwelling), and ranchos (desert dwelling). Coronado Springs Resort — BEFORE the tower The new Gran Destino Tower adds a cosmopolitan feel to the resort, with a brand new 545-room tower offering a mix of 495 rooms and 50 suites — plus a rooftop table service restaurant (Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood), a rooftop lounge (Dahlia Lounge), and a lobby bar that pulls double duty depending on the hour (Barcelona Lounge)! Gran Destino Tower We’ll be touring the Tower, exploring the rooms, and tasting our way through all the restaurants! So keep checking back as we add to this LIVE report as the day progresses into the night! Gran Destino Upper Level Lobby Balcony Lantern Details at Entry Gran Destino Tower Front Desk Gran Destino Tower Barcelona Lounge Ceiling FIRST LOOK at Gran Destino Tower, Rooms, and Suites! Rooms at Gran Destino feel a lot more like deluxe resort rooms than like moderate resort rooms. They’re decked out with two queen beds, laminate flooring, and plenty of room. Gran Destino Tower Room The rooms remind me of the old Swan and Dolphin Resort hotel rooms, with the long console desk at the front of the room instead of a bureau. These rooms are definitely set up to be functional for conference guests. Gran Destino Tower Room Gran Destino Tower Room The bathroom area feels very much like that of Disney’s Contemporary Resort (double sinks, separate water closet, sliding barn door enclosing the whole bathroom area, etc) Gran Destino Tower Room Bathroom We’ll have a full review of the rooms for you in a separate post, so stay tuned! FIRST LOOK at Barcelona Lounge! Enjoy a taste of Barcelona Lounge in the lobby of Gran Destino Tower! This espresso bar-by-day, gin tonic bar-by-night has is the place to go for all-day refreshment. Gran Destino Tower Barcelona Lounge Area We’ll have a full review of Barcelona Lounge in a separate post! Stay tuned! FIRST LOOK at Dahlia Lounge! Coming soon! Located on the rooftop of Gran Destino, Dahlia Lounge promises a one-of-a-kind surrealist vibe with a full bar, a selection of Spanish wines, and tasty tapas! Stay tuned for our first look and full review! FIRST LOOK and Full Review at Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood! Coming soon! We’ll bring you inside Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood for a tour of the space and a small taste of the Spanish-inspired menu. We’ll have a first look review tonight (via the media event), and a full review when the restaurant fully opens to the public tomorrow (which we’ll pay for ourselves — see our disclosure info below for details). Stick with us over on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook as well for updates and fun stories throughout the day! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited to a media preview of Gran Destino Tower. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ Related posts: What’s New at Disney’s Caribbean Beach and Coronado Springs Resorts: Construction, Cupcakes, and MORE! Check In for What’s New at Walt Disney World’s All-Star Resorts and Coronado Springs Resort! What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Coronado Springs Resort: May 26, 2018 View the full article

To celebrate this month’s grand opening of Gran Destino Tower as part of the exciting reimagining of Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, we’re sharing a special edition of our “All in the Details” series featuring a peek inside this jewel found in the heart of Walt Disney World Resort. From jaw-dropping chandeliers to beautiful Spanish tiles, murals and wall patterns, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort honors the rich cultures and landscapes of Spain, Mexico, and the American Southwest. Inside Gran Destino Tower, the first thing you’ll notice is a grand two-story lobby and intricate wooden screens with rows of dazzling Moorish hanging lanterns. Colorful bronze screens, inspired by Spanish tile patterns, glow around registration areas, creating an inviting, happy ambiance day and night. The Barcelona Lounge, located on the lower lobby level, features eclectic patterns and colors inspired by the unique aesthetic of Barcelona, Spain. Seating areas include large murals, including art with Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse. The Resort’s Dahlia Lounge is also filled with color and features whimsical forms and unique lighting. All around the Dahlia Lounge, you’ll notice unique architectural shapes and patterns with the distinctive organic style of Spanish Modernism. Named for the storied Spanish city home to avant-garde writers and artists of the 1930s, Tolédo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood is a table-service dining experience with organic chandeliers, illuminated by twinkle lights, that add a magical touch of pixie dust. And after a day of adventure, on your way to the Gran Destino Tower bedrooms, you’ll see colorful art panels in a variety of patterns inspired by Spanish tiles as well as flooring with a special Disney touch. Looks amazing, right? Keep checking the Disney Parks Blog for more stories on Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and be sure to check out our earlier Gran Destino Tower story for more details and information on booking a reservation. View the full article

In celebration of the premiere of Disney’s “The Lion King” later this month, Adventures by Disney is offering fans a once-in-a-lifetime chance to win an African safari vacation! During the Adventures by Disney South Africa vacation itinerary, guests embark on a three-day safari where they can encounter wild African lions up-close! This incredible experience takes place at the beautiful Kapama River Lodge and private game reserve, home to some famous lions of their own. The reserve is known for its coalition of three brother lions who dominate most of the reserve and their elusive father, who is revered by both rangers and guests as the majestic “one-eyed lion.” While at Kapama River Lodge, guests set out on early morning and sunset game drives in search of the “big five” – lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos and buffalo – along with other captivating exotic animals and more than 350 species of birds. The days spent out on safari make for the perfect ending to a 10-day tour across South Africa teeming with breathtaking animal encounters (including elephants, monkeys, eagles and penguins), plus opportunities to explore the bustling city of Cape Town and the Cape of Good Hope at the southern tip of the continent. Want to know how you can win an Adventures by Disney South Africa trip for two? Now through July 31, share a photo of the little lions in your life — we mean your beloved house cats, of course! — on Instagram with the hashtags #ShowMeYourHouseLion and #Sweepstakes to be entered to win, then follow and tag @AdventuresbyDisney! For more information, visit www.showmeyourhouselion.com. You can learn more about our unforgettable South Africa vacation here. Adventures by Disney offers family departures for this itinerary, along with adult-only dates exclusively reserved for guests aged 18 and older. And don’t forget to mark your calendars for Disney’s “The Lion King,” in theaters July 19! View the full article

Now-August 8 the Disney Villains will add a wicked twist to Disney Villains After Hours event nights at Magic Kingdom Park in Walt Disney World Resort. (In case you aren’t familiar, Disney After Hours is a special event that’s open to a limited number of guests and offers low wait times at more than 20 attractions and experiences after the park closes to day guests, from classics like the Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, and Space Mountain, to newer favorites like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, plus many more. Event tickets also allow entry as early as 7 p.m., which gives you time to enjoy fireworks before heading off to the attractions. Ice cream novelties, popcorn and select bottled beverages are also included in the cost of admission). “Whether we like them or not,” said Disney’s director of Studio Publicity Tom Jones in a 1972 “Disney News” magazine article, “villains are a necessary evil…” “The Disney villains have had a lasting impact on the public,” observed Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnston, in their classic 1993 book “The Disney Villain,” “spreading horror, visual excitement, and in many cases, laughter around the world…crafty villains, uncaring villains, powerful, cruel, and spiteful villains, stay with us, haunting our minds and our hearts.” Walt Disney was fearless about using fear as a prominent element in creating his stories for animation, live-action films, television, and even Disneyland—Walt knew that the villain was frequently the driving force in his storytelling, and could, in many ways, be more interesting and appealing than the heroes themselves. “Villains are the most fun to animate,” Disney Legend Andreas Deja, animator of such classic villains as Gaston in “Beauty and the Beast” and Scar in “The Lion King,” says. “It’s fine to have a villain who beats people up and calls them names, but the more important thing for me is whether or not they are they interesting. The villains that are interesting are the ones you remember.” No less an authority than the Slave in the Magic Mirror boasted in the 1956 “Disneyland” television episode “Our Unsung Villains,” “Take away the villain and what have you got? Everybody happy. No problems. Nothing to worry about. All in all, a pretty dull story.” After a series of useful but uncomplicated villains appeared in Disney short cartoons, “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs” brought a giant leap in onscreen villainy—as it did in every other component of animation art and storytelling. In fact, Disney was criticized at the time for the frightening elements, some claiming that the Wicked Queen and her alter ego, for instance, went “too far.” Walt disagreed, “I showed ‘Snow White’ to my own two daughters when they were small. And when they came to me later and said they wanted to play ‘witch,’ I figured it was all right to let the other kids see the film.” (Walt’s daughter Diane confessed that she hid her face in her hands when the Queen’s scenes played out.) Walt’s villains afterward continued to lean to the truly terrifying—the comic or antic villains of the Silly Symphonies era were a rarity. Beware the apple peddler! © Disney When Disneyland opened, the villains of the animated features were ported over into the Fantasyland “dark rides” based upon those stories—Captain Hook menaces Peter Pan in Never Land to this day, and the Wicked Queen transforms into a haggard peddler woman to threaten Snow White. In 1983, a new Pinocchio attraction brought the little wooden boy’s nemeses to dimensional life, from Foulfellow and Gideon to Stromboli and Monstro the Whale. Is it wrong that our sympathies are with the foul fellows in the cell? © Disney It’s interesting to note that in Walt’s Disneyland storytelling, there are two timeless (and still hugely popular) attractions where the hero is vague, but the villains are prominent. When examining its storytelling, Pirates of the Caribbean takes a strange viewpoint that begins with a cautionary creepiness about the ill fortune of those who pursue the pirate’s life, then takes a much more comical, lighthearted, and appealing turn (in large part thanks to the work of Disney Legend Marc Davis) in immersing bateaux-loads of “sightseers” on a voyage through the sacking of a long-ago Caribbean port town. Even though we know that evil resides within, we want to visit this sinister house. © DisneyThe Haunted Mansion shares a similar bifurcated thematic, a strange and eerie tour of a dusty and long-abandoned house begins subtly, on “the trail of the tingling spine,” and progresses apace, growing in its tempo and thematic temperament to a frenetic and comedic climax in the graveyard—with the visitors to this strange mansion themselves acting as the fulcrum between comedy and creepiness. “Fantasmic!” premiered at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 1998. © DisneyThe triumph of good over evil is given an extravagant stage in “Fantasmic!,” a nighttime multimedia spectacular at Disneyland park at the Disneyland Resort, Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort, and Tokyo DisneySea at Tokyo Disney Resort. It features fireworks and pyrotechnics, characters and live actors, elaborate projection and water effects, and a rousing and memorable musical score. Fast asleep, Mickey Mouse dreams that he is a mighty sorcerer’s apprentice, with the power to control water, color, and magic. The Disney Villains, including Maleficent (in the form of a towering, 40-foot-tall dragon) turn Mickey’s dream into a nightmare, but the power of Mickey’s imagination is a formidable opponent to this onslaught of animated evil. Walt’s friend and star of “Mary Poppins” Van Dyke recalled, “Walt said once, ‘What I understand about kids that nobody else understands, is that they think it’s delicious to be frightened. Kids love to be scared. They love ghost stories.’ And he always put the witch or something in there, to give them that delicious goose bump. He knew.” Disney Villains After Hours will feature exclusive entertainment, food & beverage, merchandise, and more. Here’s a taste of what new elements to expect: A Brand-New Disney Villains Stage Show – Hades and Meg from “Hercules” will set the castle stage ablaze in this all-new stage show, Villains Unite the Night, which will also feature appearances by Jafar, The Queen, Dr. Facilier and Maleficent. Spot Maleficent the Dragon – Maleficent the Dragon, with her Steampunk style and signature wicked grin, will be let loose for the first time at night – breathing fire as she creeps through the park as a one-of-a-kind experience for party guests. Villanous Enhancements – Discover surprising, villain-inspired additions at Pirates of the Caribbean and Space Mountain. Wickedly Good Food & Beverage – A variety of special food & beverage offerings will also be available for purchase, including tasty desserts, drinks and dishes inspired by The Queen, Cruella de Vil, Maleficent, Hades, Dr. Facilier and even Emperor Zurg. Event Merchandise – Event attendees can also purchase new logo merchandise, as well as items from a curated collection of the best Disney Villains merchandise available. One Notorious Item to Note – Ever driven to stand out in their unpredictable and audacious fashion, while the Villains will be entertaining guests in the new stage show, they will not be participating in character greetings during the event. View the full article

Joy Through the World: Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World View the full article

We’re kicking off another week on the Disney Parks Blog by sharing a lovely look inside Tokyo Disneyland. Here, the fun is just getting started at the park’s Cinderella Castle. Inside this Disney castle, guests can explore Cinderella’s Fairytale Hall to view paintings, dioramas, and other works of art that follows Cinderella’s story. Thanks to Mark Willard for the image. View the full article

Shades of Green Walt Disney World’s Military Resort has an Armed Forces Exchange Service General Store on property. It’s a small convenience store which has a small selection of Disney items as well as Orlando and Florida souvenirs. They also carry typical sundry items such as: Soda, water, milk, and juice Liquor, beer, and wine […] The post Shades of Green’s AAFES General Store appeared first on Military Disney Tips Blog. View the full article

Duuuun dun duuuun dun… As soon as I hear those first few iconic notes of the Jaws theme song, I can’t help but feel a little uneasy. Since Bruce said in Finding Nemo that “fish are friends, not food,” we can only hope that people are the same… right? (Cue nervous laughter) POP Century! As the Jaws theme song crescendos, one specific aquatic animal has began circling Disney World as this new cupcake makes its way into Pop Century Resort. Catch my drift? You guessed it! The Shark Cupcake has made a big splash, swimming into the Pop Century Resort’s Everything Pop. This is brand new TODAY, floating in after we gave you a look into the latest food, merchandise, and construction updates at the resort last week. The Shark Cupcake at Pop Century Resort The soft yellow cake is filled with a super yummy pineapple filling, topped with a light blue buttercream that tastes coconut flavored. A sugar candy shark and a cherry sit on top, finished with silver sprinkles and crunchies surrounding the rim. It tastes just like a trip to the beach! Thanks to Krystle O. for sharing these photos and this information with us! Inside the Shark Cupcake You can seriously say, “Sharkbait, ooh ha ha!” with this cupcake today! Have you tried the new Shark Cupcake yet? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below! Related posts: REVIEW AND CUTE ALERT! Disney World’s Newest Peanut Butter Cupcake Is The Cat’s Meow! Review: The King Whoopie Pie at Everything Pop (R.I.P. King Cupcake) What’s New at Disney’s Pop Century Resort: Celebrating Nine Decades with Mickey and More! View the full article

Happy weekend! We’ve been hard at work in the parks scoping out all the latest news for you, which is compiled here! First, a few things to remember… The 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival kicks off August 29 and we’re covering it all! Did you see the menus that are out now? See every single Food and Wine Festival MENU and some FOOD PHOTOS as well — here! Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is now OPEN at Disneyland and will open August 29 at Disney’s Hollywood Studios! Check out all our Disneyland Galaxy’s Edge coverage to start planning for Disney World (the two lands will be virtually identical!)! Now — on to the news! Makiba no Magumi – Gift of Ranch We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We spotted the new logo for Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the park. We reviewed 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. New buses are coming to Disney World. We reviewed Takumi-Tei the NEW signature dining restaurant in Epcot. We also shared our first look here. Check out the cute new Cozy Knit plush toy we spotted. New limited edition runDisney MagicBands are coming soon. We reviewed a new Summer Slush in Epcot’s France Pavilion. We checked out the new Piña Colada Crème Brûlée in Disney Springs. Check out the new secret menu drink in Disneyland. The Unicorn Cake is back at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Check out the spicy new loaded Dole Whip in Disneyland. See where you’ll find this cute vintage Minnie Mouse dress. New Mermaid Minnie Ears might be selling out at Disney World. We checked out the new Alex and Ani designer ears. Check out what’s new at Wilderness Lodge and the Contemporary. We checked out 12 varieties of chocolate-covered strawberries at Disney World. The Stitch Cake has returned to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. We spotted the Aulani Minnie Ears at the Magic Kingdom. We reviewed the Italian Florentine at Kona Island. We reviewed the Raspberry Dole Whip cone at Pineapple Lanai on the Fourth of July. The Polynesian celebrated the Fourth of July with the Uncle Slam. See how you might be able to get a VIP tour of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Check out the trio of chocolate covered bacon we reviewed. We reviewed a lot of Fourth of July treats including: a cupcake at the Polynesian, the Mickey Firecracker Cupcake, Berry Shortcake in Epcot, a cupcake in Epcot, Cherry Pie Cupcake at Wilderness Lodge, a cupcake at All Star Music, and a Berry Shortcake at Pop Century. Check out what’s new at Epcot right now. Redd’s Revenge Dole Whip Float has arrived at the Magic Kingdom. Disneyland’s White Water Snacks is getting a new name! New Mobile Order collectible buttons available for Disneyland Annual Passholders. Sprinkles had a free cupcake promotion on July 4. A new neon blue Corkcicle is now available at Wine Bar George. Starbucks in Disney Springs was offering ‘Stranger Things’ drinks. We reviewed the new Craftsman Bar at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel. See the first look here. We checked out the limited time red, white, and blue sangria at Geyser Point. March of the First Order ends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Check out the new Root Beer Float Shake at Flo’s V-8 Cafe. There’s a new Web Crawler Shake at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs. You’ll find bacon-infused waffles at Vivoli il Gelato too. Ariel has been cast in the new live-action The Little Mermaid. We shared an update about the secret menu fries at Hungry Bear Restaurant. Check out the video of Disney World cast members finding out they’re headed to Batuu. We reviewed a new must-have peanut butter brownie in Epcot. Check out what’s new in the Magic Kingdom. There’s a new Bo Peep cupcake at Pop Century. We spotted signs for Takumi-Tei before it opened! Check out the new Farewell to IllumiNations light-up ears. We shared what’s new at Pop Century and Art of Animation. Check out the new Splash Mountain Wishables. There was a new crazy sundae in Disney Springs. We spotted some fun new car magnets at Disney World. We shared how you can buy a night in the Cinderella Castle Suite. New Haunted Mansion exhibit opens in Disneyland. We reviewed the new Dulce de Leche Cupcake at Contempo Cafe. We reviewed the cutest Peanut Butter Cupcake at Pop Century. The Buffalo Chicken Loaded Fries are back at Casey’s Corner. New menu items have arrived at Tortuga Tavern in the Magic Kingdom. What attractions are affected by Epcot’s transformation? We shared a foodie guide for the Fourth of July at Disneyland and Disney World. Epcot’s Character Spot is closing temporarily this fall. Epcot’s Electric Umbrella is closing as part of the park’s transformation. We checked out what’s new at the Animal Kingdom. A special dining package was available at Epcot on the Fourth of July. We reviewed the spicy Mickey Dome Cake at Peco’s Bills. There’s a new cookie-filled sundae at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs. We shared more dates for the release of more designer Disney ears. We reviewed the It’s a Party Sundae and Birthday Cake Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich at the Magic Kingdom. A cute new popcorn bucket has arrived at Disneyland. We shared details on why Aunt Polly’s didn’t open when expected. A new Poke Bowl debuted at Disneyland’s Bengal Barbecue. We released the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival. We shared what’s new in Disney Springs. We spotted an adorable new pop socket phone case. The menu was released for Disney World’s Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. We reviewed lunch at Epcot’s Electric Umbrella. The Disney Springs area hotels are having a summer fun sale. Marvel-inspired ice cream flavors debut at Ample Hills Creamery. We shared details on the Fourth of July at Disneyland. A new Watermelon Mojito Cupcake arrived at Sprinkles along with a Caramel Chocolate Chip Cupcake. We reviewed a Fourth of July cupcake at Restaurantosaurus. We checked out a new quinoa salad at the Animal Kingdom. We spotted new merchandise for The Lion King. A new 2319 Cone debuted at Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies. Check out the Burger of the Month at The Edison. Disney World’s Monorail Silver gets a makeover. We reviewed the new Boozy Goofy’s Glaciers at Goofy’s Candy Company. Two additional narrators were announced for the Candlelight Processional. We shared what’s new at Disneyland. Check out what’s new at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. We reviewed the new Main “Street” Dog at Disneyland. New DFB YouTube videos: The Best and Worst Things About Disney World, Let’s Upgrade Disney Food, 13 of the Creepiest Things in Disney Parks, and 7 Disney World Experiences That Will Make You Change Your Travel Plans. New DFB Video — 13 of the Creepiest Things in the Disney Parks Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got FOUR brand new videos EVERY WEEK showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video — check it out — 13 of the Creepiest Things in the Disney Parks — and don’t forget to subscribe here.  Deal of the Week: Order the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival for 20% Off It’s time to order the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festiavl e-book! The 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Guide is HERE! With more than 250 pages of new updates and information for 2019, we have everything organized to ensure that you have your absolute best Food and Wine Festival yet! This year’s Epcot Food and Wine Festival runs for a RECORD 87 days from August 29 until November 23, and the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book features all the info you need to know about this year’s events, from what’s NEW, to brand new details, and a FULL Daily Schedule of Events. This book is uniquely organized to make sure you have the best Food and Wine Festival, ever! What’s in the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book? Full Booth Menus with over 100 full color food photos featuring what menu items you can expect at the World Showcase booths this year. A full Schedule of Events for every single day of the festival. Don’t mess with scrolling websites and making calendars — we’ve got everything organized so you know exactly what’s happening on each calendar day! It’s the most in-depth coverage of the Epcot Food and Wine Festival ANYWHERE. A full chapter on what’s NEW at the festival, including a full list of new menu items at the booths! Discount details and information Fully updated FAQ section Plans and strategies for Kids at the Festival​​​​​​​ And MORE! Get the 2019 DFB Guide to the Epcot Food and Wine Festival today! As always, we’ve made this guide instantly downloadable for your convenience, and easily installed on your mobile devices. The DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival is a PDF ebook with ​250+ pages of detailed information about the Festival as well as hundreds of photographs and customized bonus items to help you get the best experience possible. ​​​​​​​ This guide is guaranteed to help you better plan your best Food & Wine Festival visit or your money back! Bonus Items in the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival The DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food & Wine Festival includes customized bonus items that are EXCLUSIVE to the DFB:​​​​​​​ A printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist that you can use to plan, and easily bring with you to the festival Themed World Showcase booth crawls, including “Food and Wine Classics”, the “Fun Eats for the Kids”, and so many more! Food and Wine Festival customized Touring Strategies for One Day visits, Budget-Conscious visits, and more! Full food, wine, beer, winery, cocktail, and chef indexes, including dates and locations of where you can find your favorites Epcot Food and Wine Festival recipes Top tips on how to use MyMagic+ and the Disney Dining Plan at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival And more! Whether this is your first festival or your 24th, you’ll appreciate knowing what you are getting before spending time and vacation dollars. And no matter what you want do — sample wine, explore the world’s beers, taste something you’ve never tried before, or find your next favorite dessert — The DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is the perfect resource for navigating the Epcot Food and Wine Festival. Save 20% off the cover price of the DFB Guide to the 2019 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! Use promo code CHEFS at checkout! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on instagram, facebook, or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. We reviewed the Mickey’s PhilharMagic treats at Schmoozie’s in Disney California Adventure a while back, and recently one of our Insta friends thedukeofdonuts shared this gorgeous photo with us recently! Love the look of this Mickey donut! We loved the Heart of Te Feti Cone when it debuted at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort this spring and our Insta pal kariwithani says “Almost too beautiful to eat…I said almost!” We agree! You need this Dole Whip cone. Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share a photo with us on instagram, facebook, or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds. On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared this super cute Lilo & Stitch Ice Cream Power Bank. WDW for Grownups shared a review of Macarons at Amorette’s Patisserie. Disney Parks Blog shared a recipe for making a Disney Cruise Line specialty cocktail at home. Disney Family shared a recipe for Mickey Strawberry Shortcake. Don’t Miss ANY Disney Food News! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Related posts: Disney Food News This Week: August 12, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: Everything That’s Happened at the Disney Parks! Disney Food Post Round-Up: December 10, 2017 View the full article

Since the announcement of the live-action Mulan film, we have been anxiously waiting to see the Girl Worth Fighting For on the big screen! And, now finally we can see a glimpse into her Reflection! The Official Mulan Poster ©Walt Disney Studios Debuting TODAY during halftime of the Women’s World Cup, Walt Disney Studios released the first teaser trailer of the film being released March 27th, 2020. Clocking in at 1 minute and 29 seconds, there is already enough action to keep us on our toes for the premiere! Closely following the original narrative poem, “The Ballad of Mulan,” the live-action Mulan film will follow the heroine as she tries to bring honor to her family and stay true to herself — all while saving her country. Disney has stated that the plot revolves around Hua Mulan as she takes her father’s place in the Imperial Army, after the Emperor of China decrees that one man in each family must serve in the war to defend China from Northern invaders. Despite her parents wanting her to marry whoever the Matchmaker provides for her, Mulan runs away from home and poses as a man, Hua Jun, in the army. While she risks everything she has to fight for her country, she also gains something new and beautiful in the process. Directed by Niki Caro, the star-studded cast includes Yifei Liu as Mulan, Donnie Yen as Commander Tung, Jason Scott Lee as Böri Khan, Jet Li as the Emperor, and more. While “the flower that blooms in adversity is the most rare and beautiful of all,” it’s obvious that Mulan is an extremely strong female protagonist and warrior. Are you as excited as we are to see Mulan defend China in the new film? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Halle Bailey To Star As Ariel In Live-Action Version of The Little Mermaid! Disney Restaurant Allergy-Specific Menus Now Available on DisneyWorld.com and Disneyland.com For Some Locations! Is Anybody Really Going To Pay $100 For These Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge Coasters? View the full article

So, Paddlefish in Disney Springs has been wowing us with innovative mixology from the beginning! Remember that crazy Halloween cocktail where you actually put charcoal in it? And Paddlefish was the first to debut a version of boozy popsicles (yes pls!). Paddlefish Well they’re at it again on the mixology beat, my friends, with a new way to whet your whistle this weekend!! Paddlefish, previously known as Fulton’s Crab House, is a decent option if you’re looking for high-end seafood and a charming atmosphere. Located in The Landing at Disney Springs, Paddlefish is the latest restaurant to occupy what used to be the Empress Lily way back in the day. A full-scale paddleboat (and yet an actual building, set on a foundation), it was named after Walt’s wife Lillian, who christened the vessel back in 1977. (A little trivia for you — this spot used to offer a character meal in one of its incarnations!) But these days, they’re making the most of their Sassagoula Riverside location with a lovely rooftop bar (no reservations needed — just walk up the stairs!) and some great drinks! And now you get to jump in on the action. Southern Sangria at Paddlefish This upcoming Saturday, July 13th, from 2-4 PM, you can try your hand with Paddlefish’s Mixology 101 Class! Taking place on their rooftop bar, the class will teach you the history of your favorite drinks and how to make the perfect cocktail! You will also get to snack on the three menu items: spinach & artichoke dip with tajin tortilla chips, calamari with peppadew piri piri, and fried green tomatoes with remoulade. The Mixology 101 Class costs $55 a person with no refunds. You can purchase on Eventbrite tickets here! Talk about a lovely Saturday afternoon mixer! Maybe you can pop over to Vivoli il Gelato for dessert? Are you going to the Mixology 101 Class at Paddlefish? Let us know what drink you want to make in the comments below! Related posts: 25 Can’t-Miss Experiences to Celebrate the Holidays at Walt Disney World This Year! Disney World Splitsville Cast Member Special Offers Review: NEW Menu Items at Disney Springs’ Homecomin’!! View the full article

Dining, shopping, entertainment, and one of our favorite places to go — you know we’re talking about what’s new in Disney Springs! Wine Bar George And there’s a TON of awesome things to let you know about! We can’t wait to get started! What’s New in Disney Springs Dining We think dessert deserves its own food group. At Amorette’s Patisserie, you can get as many high end sweet treats as you’d like! The Mile Marker 0 key lime pastry that we know and love has a new look, but the same great taste. There are similar decorations on top, but the tart is now back to its original circular form (circa 2016) instead of rectangular (circa 2017). Mile Marker 0 Here’s the previous change to the tart, which happened in 2017, just in case you wanted to see the difference: Mile Marker 0 circa 2017 And speaking of summertime treats, a tropical hideaway has appeared at Amorette’s! The Piña Colada Crème Brûlée has made a splash at the patisserie. The delicious flavors perfectly mirror the original drink, immediately transporting you to the beach. You can read our review of this refreshing confection here! Outside of Amorette’s, a convenient beverage stand has popped up for the busy holiday weekend. According to Cast Members, it should be around for the summer weekends to come. There is no beer sold in Amorette’s, but the beverage stand offers Coke products, bottled water, wine, beer, and the seasonal slush made inside the store. No food is sold at the bar, so head on into the patisserie if you’re looking for a quick bite! Amorette’s Beverage Stand At Vivoli il Gelato, a group of incredible sugary and savory snacks are available for the month of July! Some of these include the Cookies in July sundae, including cookie dough gelato, vanilla gelato, chocolate sauce, crushed cookies, and whipped cream… July Specials List at Vivoli il Gelato … The Web Crawler sundae (in honor of the Spider-Man: Far from Home premiere)… The Spider-Man Themed Sundae …and The Elephant’s Graveyard (a preview to The Lion King coming out later this month). The Lion King Themed Sundae Although it’s not on their list of July Specials, the Bacon Infused Waffles have created a sticky situation at Vivoli il Gelato — we can’t get enough of them! Bacon Infused Waffles ©DisneySprings Sprinkles is the ultimate stop for all your cupcake cravings in Disney Springs. Continuing with the trend of drink-inspired goodies, Sprinkles has released a Watermelon Mojito Cupcake for the month of July! The mojito-themed cupcake seriously satisfies. Wine Bar George is one of our favorite places to stop and grab an actual drink. Accompanying the Neon Pink Corkcicle from last month, the new Blue Corkcicle has now hit the shelves! Don’t forget that you can get a free drink with your purchase! What’s New in Disney Springs Merchandise The Marketplace Co-op has numerous shops within its brick walls. I’m partial to The Dress Shop with their vintage ride and character outfits, and it’s always exciting to find a NEW option here! Today, for all the fans of the Main Mouse’s main squeeze, The Minnie Dress has been spotted on the racks in all its red, black, and white beauty. DTech, also inside the Marketplace Co-op, offers customizable phone cases, Magic Bands, and more! DTech Customized Castle Magnet Magnets have arrived, ready for your very own name to be etched onto them. However, not every magnet is customizable just yet. DTech Customized Cast Member Badge Magnet Luckily, the Cast Member Name Badge and Cinderella Castle Magnets have the option for customization. If you don’t choose to put a name of the Castle Magnet, it will simply say Walt Disney World, which is still just as fun to us! They are available for $14.99, plus $3 for name customization. This would be the perfect gift to take back to a friend or family member after your Disney World vacation! Now, Designer Minnie Ears are more popular than ever right now with multiple brands debuting their own unique spins on the classic merchandise. Alex and Ani is no different with the release of their gorgeous Ever After Ears. We got to have a first look at these stunning ears at their in-store launch. You can read all about how they’re made here! Alex and Ani Ears Pin Traders has some of the coolest pins around, if you love adding to your collection. Despite the name of the store, Pin Traders also has Magic Bands and POP figurines available for purchase. Up Magic Band The Up Magic Band, featuring Russell, Carl, Dug, and Kevin, retails at $24.99. Now, all it needs is a built-in animal translator device! Back of the Up Magic Band The 2019 Annual Passholder Magic Band puts our favorite mouse front and center, leaping for joy by Cinderella Castle. He makes us want to leap into the store to pick up this band! 2019 Annual Passholder Magic Band Back of the Passholder Magic Band With the release of Endgame, Marvel is at the peak of its popularity. Rocket has quickly become a fan favorite, even being heavily featured in Disneyland’s Guardians of the Galaxy: Mission Breakout! ride. You can take him home as this adorable POP figurine for $19.99. Rocket Pop Figurine Pins, pins, and more pins! New pins in Pin Traders are currently $9.99, including those of characters like the Evil Queen and Robin Hood. The Pinocchio and Diamond Covered Minnie pins are the only exceptions as they are $12.99 each. Diamond Covered Minnie Pin Pinocchio Pin Snow White’s Evil Queen Pin Space Mountain Pin Robin Hood Pin Want in on a secret? Mystery Box Pin Trading is now happening at Pin Traders! You simply pick the character you want and a Cast Member will open the corresponding door with that character, revealing a large cork board of pins inside. You can trade up to 2 pins. Pin Traders Mystery Pin TradingI LOVE this! It has to be a blast for the kiddos! One Way to Choose Your Character A Cork Board of Pins Another Mystery Box The World of Disney store is the biggest in Disney Springs, so it makes sense that there’s lots of new merchandise available! Nana Cozy Knit Travel to Neverland with this Nana Cozy Knit. For only $27.99, you can have your own personal nursemaid and dog all in one! We were so excited to find her we wrote a whole post about her here! Check it out for details. Now if you’re more “under the sea” than “off to neverland,” the new Ariel merchandise was mermaid for you! These sparkly mermaid ears are flying off the shelves in Disney shops around the parks! Mermaid Ears The Mermaid Ears can be a Part of Your World for $27.99, and the Ariel Hat is a catch for $21.99. Ariel Hat And don’t forget we finally know who will play the coveted role of Ariel herself in the upcoming Little Mermaid live action film! Click here to see who it is! But in Lion King news, the live-action The Lion King looks phenomenal, and we’ve only seen the trailers. The merchandise for the film has made a roar at the World of Disney store already. World of Disney Lion King Display Pick up a pair of pals with the NEW Simba and Nala Sitting Plush toys! You can buy them individually for $26.99, or for $22 each of you buy two. Why separate best friends, though, when you can say Hakuna Matata and buy them both? Simba Plush Simba and Nala Plush Pals I love having a reminder of Disney World when I’m not in the parks. These new keychains, available for $12.99, are a perfect reminder of the Happiest Place of Earth! I’m about to have dreams of teacups, treats, and castles for days. World of Disney Keychains Castle and Teacup Keychains Mickey Bar and Cupcake Keychains Back of the Teacup and Castle Keychains Back of the Mickey Bar and Cupcake Keychains And, that’s all for now! We really put you through the ringer with all the new items in this segment of What’s New in Disney Springs! Join us next time when we key you in on the latest food, merchandise, and more popping up in the parks. Are you heading to the World of Disney or Vivoli il Gelato first? Let us knodw what you’re the most excited to get in Disney Springs in the comments below! Related posts: What’s NEW in Disney Springs: Menu Updates, Munchies, and Merch! NEW! Cookie-Filled Sundae Arrives at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs! REVIEW: Head to the Tropics with Disney World’s NEW Piña Colada Crème Brûlée! View the full article

We are back with What’s New from Disney’s Hollywood Studios, where we spotted some small dining updates, found fun new merch, and discovered the Skyliner Gondolas are missing… sort of! Put on your sequins and tails — we’re going to Hollywood! Courtesy of: Themeparkologist What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Dining Update Baseline Tap House in the Park’s Grand Avenue neighborhood has a small but quality drinks menu. Last week we noticed that the Exotic Margarita had left (we assumed for a location more exotic than central Florida). Turns out: there were yuzu probs. But the citrus has been restocked, and the Exotic Margarita is back from its short vacation. Baseline Tap House Drink Menu Update At Backlot Express we noticed a small but delicious change: the Peanut Butter and Chocolate Brownie used to look like this… Peanut Butter Brownie …but it now comes with the addition of half of a Peanut Butter Cup. Is the change necessary? Probably not. (Okay, it’s not. We thought the brownie was great as it was — see why here!) But who are we to turn down an additional half PBC? The more, the merrier. Peanut Butter Brownie Updated The only other dining news coming out of Hollywood Studios this week isn’t Park news exactly; we saw that Disney posted the menu for Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, the main dining spot in soon-to-open Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo Menu We shared screenshots of the menu as it was posted, but we did notice one major omission (hopefully just a glitch!). Click here to see what happened to one of our favorite dishes from Disneyland’s Galaxy’s Edge. Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo Menu What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Construction In construction (or, really, testing of coming attractions) news, the Skyliner gondolas were missing! Hollywood Studios Skyliner Now before mass panic descends upon the World, let’s break it down. This was the first time in several weeks that we didn’t see any gondolas out on the lines; recently we’ve seen the colorful cabins — some with character! — undergoing regular testing here. But not today! Hollywood Studios Skyliner We spoke to a security cast member in the area who said he hasn’t seen the gondolas testing as often out of the Hollywood Studios station as testing focus has shifted to other stations. Hollywood Studios Skyliner We noted a few gondolas safely stashed in the station, eagerly awaiting crowds when they begin running guests around the World later this year, so we’ll keep watching the skies for their return. Hollywood Studios Skyliner Station What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Merchandise From up in the sky to under the sea, we found The Little Mermaid Ears at Celebrity 5&10 on Hollywood Boulevard and Once Upon a Time on Sunset Boulevard. We saw plenty of them on the shelf, but when we first spotted them at Disney Springs this week, they seemed to be selling like hotcakes… or crab cakes. (See the Mermaid Ears situation we found at World of Disney.) Little Mermaid Ears Not about to wear seashells on your head? Perhaps you’ll be more interested in a “Salty” Mickey Pretzel ball cap ($27.99) instead! We found this in 5&10 as well, so no need to shop around for head gear. Salty Hat Speaking of salty, if you have bottles of rum that need opening, you might want to snatch up this Pirates of the Caribbean Bottle Opener ($12.99)! Every time you use it, you’ll be reminded that you are “pirate down to [your] bones.” Pirates Bottle Opener We found the recently-arrived Snacks and Attractions Keychains at 5&10 after discovering them at Epcot’s Mouse Gear first. Snacks and Attractions Keychains At Beverly Sunset Boutique, we found Mike Wazowski in purse form ($24.99) looking like he just got a talking-to from Roz… Mike Wazowski Purse With that expression we’re pretty sure he forgot to file his paperwork… again. Mike Wazowski Purse But brace yourself for this next pic because we’re going inside Mike Wazowski’s head. Turns out it’s just tissue paper and a nylon purse strap. Who knew? Mike Wazowski Purse Also at Beverly Sunset Boutique we found this Green Alien Ornament. It was new-to-us, but a cast member says they arrived last month… then promptly sold out. So if you’ve got to have one (for $14.99), you might have to be the chosen one and hope they’re still on the shelf when you check. Green Alien Ornament And at Stage 1 Company Store, we discovered the secret to owning Cinderella Castle: shell out $225, and figure out how to get this model home in a suitcase. Cinderella Castle can be yours! This figure is not new to the Parks, but it’s new to Stage 1, so we had to share. The glitter! The blue! The golden flags! Yeah, we want one. Cinderella Castle Believe it or not, the far more expensive Arribas Cinderella Castle in Disney Springs — a splurge at over $37,000 — is available to purchase on ShopDisney! Click here to see it in all of its Swarovski Crystal glory! And see our DFB Guide video on the most outrageously expensive things in Walt Disney World here! And on that note, we bid you auf wiedersehen from Disney’s Hollywood Studios and encourage you to join us on our next What’s New walk coming soon! Would you purchase Cinderella Castle for the low, low price of $225? Let us know in the comments! Related posts: What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Oasis Canteen Is No More! PLUS Jessie’s New Meet and Greet Location and Forky’s Photo Opp… What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: LOADS of New Merchandise PLUS a Peek at Construction! What’s New in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! New Merch, Chinese Theater Updates, and More! View the full article

This week, we celebrated the Fourth of July at Disney Parks with a series of stories from Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort as well as a special #DisneyParksLIVE stream of “Disney’s Celebrate America! A Fourth of July Concert in the Sky” at Magic Kingdom Park. If you missed it live, be sure to check out the replay this weekend! We also launched a new update from Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland park featuring a special look at the galaxy’s most indispensable sidekicks: droids! Visit Michael’s original Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge post for a look at some of the dutiful droids who have landed on Batuu. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Candlelight Processional Narrators Announced for Select Dates During 2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Presented by AdventHealth – Neil Patrick Harris and Gary Sinise will both return as celebrity narrators for this year’s Candlelight Processional during the Epcot International Festival of the Holidays! Adventure is Out There at Pixar Pier in Disney California Adventure Park – All things Pixar are celebrated in an even larger way at the Disneyland Resort! Celebrating its first anniversary in summer 2019, Pixar Pier has recently opened Inside Out Emotional Whirlwind, a newly reimagined attraction that takes you on a “sense-ational” spin. New Designer Ear Headbands Revealed from the Disney Parks Designer Collection Coming to Disney Parks & shopDisney – Since we revealed the Disney Parks Designer Collection in May, we’ve been eager to share the next designs in this collection of limited-release Mickey Mouse ear hats and Minnie Mouse ear headbands designed by notable celebrities, designers and artists! Take a look at the latest designs that will be rolling out over the next couple of months! Swing in for a Heroic Encounter with Spider-Man at Disney California Adventure Park – Fans can catch their friendly neighborhood Spider-Man, fresh off his latest adventure, during heroic encounters in Hollywood Land at Disney California Adventure park. Encounter the First Order and Heroes of the Resistance During Your Visit to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – While living your adventure in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, you are likely to come across some familiar faces as you explore the planet of Batuu and Black Spire Outpost. View the full article

BB-8, Mickey Mouse, and Woody? SIGN me up! Courtesy of: Themeparkologist Disney’s Hollywood Studios is getting a major makeover with all the additions arriving into the park over the next few years. What better way is there to showcase those changes than with a brand new sign?! Thanks to Themeparkologist, we have the first look at the latest Hollywood Studios logo in use in Disney World! The logo was revealed at Hollywood Studios’ 30th Anniversary Celebration — see details here. Courtesy of: Themeparkologist As you can see, Hollywood Studios is highlighting its ride and land expansions with the characters used on the new logo. BB-8 represents Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Mickey Mouse corresponds with Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, and Woody embodies Toy Story Land. What do you think of Hollywood Studios’ newest sign? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: What’s New at Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Oasis Canteen Is No More! PLUS Jessie’s New Meet and Greet Location and Forky’s Photo Opp… The BEST Treats To Try at Disney’s Hollywood Studios’ Flurry of Fun in Disney World! What’s NEXT For Disney’s Hollywood Studios?? View the full article

In the pantheon of Walt Disney World character meals, 1900 Park Fare at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa has not historically been one of our favorites. Learn About: 1900 Park Fare Grand Floridian Disney World Restaurants It’s passable, with food that will fill you up even if it’s otherwise lackluster. And the atmosphere is in keeping with the Victorian stylings of the Resort, which many guests really embrace and enjoy. There are characters at breakfast and dinner that cover a lot of ground. The Supercalifragilistic Breakfast brings Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, the Mad Hatter, Winnie-the-Pooh, and Tigger together in an inexplicable mash-up of British-y and colorful characters. Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner is a little more thematic, with Cinderella, Prince Charming, Lady Tremaine, Anastasia, and Drizella. Afternoons from 2PM to 3PM, 1900 Park Fare transforms for guests age 4-12 into the Wonderland Tea Party. This party is hosted by Alice in Wonderland and a couple of her friends and features apple juice masquerading as tea, the chance to decorate a cupcake, and a few fun games. Click here to read more about it! Of all the options, the dinner line-up of characters offer the most fun for grown-ups, with Lady Tremaine and the Step-Sisters bringing the funny. But are the characters worth the price…and has the food improved since our last visit? 1900 Park Fare Decor Atmosphere To get to 1900 Park Fare, you’ll need to find your way to the Grand Floridian Resort, located on the monorail loop and right next door to Magic Kingdom. Note that the former entrance to 1900 Park Fare was at the very front of the Grand Floridian’s lobby, but it has now been moved to the other side of the restaurant. To get there, walk to the back of the Grand Flo’s lobby and turn left. You’ll pass a gift shop and enter a small rotunda, where 1900 Park Fare will be on your left, next to Grand Floridian Cafe. 1900 Park Fare entrance The atmosphere at 1900 Park Fare is essentially what you’d expect from a Disney-fied, Victorian-inspired restaurant. Some architectural details, fabrics, and embellishments harken to that period in history where there was no such thing as too much design. The restaurant’s entrance is a bit nondescript, with a small check in desk and a few benches for those waiting to be seated. A few carousel horse drawings adorn the walls. Check-In Desk The central section of the dining room is overseen by four brass chandeliers, several carousel ponies, and some fabulous (or fabulously tacky? You decide.) fabrics and wall treatments. 1900 Park Fare Decor The vintage carousel theme is prominent in the carved animals and in the massive calliope that presides over the restaurant. Carousel… Llama? This is a special part of the decor as it’s really the focal piece. Swaths of striped fabric surround a vintage-looking calliope with wooden dolls, several instruments, and loads of little details. It is a really unique piece. 1900 Park Fare Decor If you’re a fan of the carved carousel animals, you may stroll around to take a closer look (being careful not to squeeze too closely to other diners, of course). You’ll find these engraved plaques with information on the artist and date and location of creation. This is a neat historical detail for carousel aficionados. Carousel Artist Plaques Seating at 1900 Park Fare is simple: light colored tables and padded wooden chairs give the space a bit of a garden feel. Dining Room The chair backs have a hot air balloon look to them, which is subtly whimsical. 1900 Park Fare Dining Room While most seating is at tables with chairs, some tables also have banquette seating. 1900 Park Fare Dining Room Table settings are very simple. Silverware is wrapped in sage green napkins. Only the extensive drink menu and some extras like sugar packets are provided. Table Settings Overall, there’s not much of a vibe here, just a snapshot of a historical design period with touches of antique carousel. For some reason the lighting always seems to be a bit of a study in beige, and, much like the food, the decor doesn’t particularly wow. Eats I dined during dinner service on this visit, with hopes that the buffet items had somehow been improved since my last visit several years ago. I’ll save my overall thoughts for later, but let’s start with a drink. One notable thing 1900 Park Fare has going for it now is an extensive drink menu. Offerings include cocktails, wine, beer, ciders, and non-alcoholic fruity drinks. If you’re on the Disney Dining Plan, definitely take some time to peruse this menu and make a selection that will increase the value of this meal for your table service credit. Drink Menu There are several cocktails from which to choose, including the Godiva Chocolate Martini and Cold Brew XO. Cocktails The soft frozen Pina Colava is a guest favorite around Walt Disney World. Cocktails Cocktails that come with a souvenir Glow Cube are always a fun option. Cocktails Staples like the Ultimate Long Island Iced Tea and Captain’s Mai Tai are available. Cocktails A Negroni and Smoked Turkey are great options, too. Cocktails If a cocktail is called Antioxidant Lemonade, you should have a couple because it’s healthy. Cocktails Margaritas come in both sweet and spicy varieties. Cocktails You can pretend you’ve escaped to the islands with a Rum Swizzle or your choice of mojito. Cocktails You can enjoy the Paloma without alcohol, if you desire, and customize the Watermelon Margarita to make it spicy if you dare! Cocktails There are many wines from which to select, including Rose, Red, White, Sparking, and Sangria. Wine Wine Wine Wine Wine Beer, Hard Cider, and Sparkling Water are available, too. Beer Beer Non-Alcoholic Mocktails offer lots of fruit and foam options. Non-Alcoholic Options I ordered the Blood Orange Margarita. This colorful drink was good — slightly sweet and pretty potent. Blood Orange Margarita Sauza Conmemorativo Anejo Tequila, Cointreau, Lime Juice, and Blood Orange Sour combine to lend a little tartness to the cocktail, too. It was a tasty and refreshing way to start the meal — and not too heavy, which is key when you’re about to dig into a buffet. Blood Orange Margarita The buffet itself is straightforward: walk along its length, identify food items you’d like to try, gather, and move on. The carving station anchors the buffet in the center. Note that the two sides of the buffet are DIFFERENT from one another, so you’ll want to tackle both sides during your meal. Buffet Stations The buffet includes cold salad options, like Caesar that’s dressed and tossed with grated Parmesan and a selection of Mixed Greens. Caesar Salad and Mixed Greens Toppings for the salad include chickpeas, black olives, grated carrot, grape tomatoes, and a few dressings (ranch, bleu cheese, and two vinaigrettes). Salad toppings and dressings Other cold salad options include this Farro Salad with red onion, diced tomato, arugula, and crumbled cheese. Cheese cubes are available in cheddar, colby-jack, and pepper jack. Farro Salad and Cheese The Loaded Potato Salad is a bacon-y option, while the Broccoli Slaw provides some crunch. Broccoli Slaw and Loaded Potato Salad The Kale and Strawberry Salad had a bit of a brown, soggy look to it owing to a ton of vinaigrette, while the Tomato and Mozzarella Salad was fairly simple. Kale and Strawberry Salad and Tomato and Mozzarella Salad The cold bar also offers Peel-and-Eat Shrimp and Crab Legs. Accompaniments include remoulade, cocktail sauce, and lemon wedges. Peel-and-Eat Shrimp and Crab Legs with Accompaniments The hot bar included two soups on my visit: creamy Clam Chowder and hearty Chicken Noodle. Clam Chowder Chicken Noodle Soup The Plant-Based Zoodles and Roasted Cauliflower with Pine Nuts serve as vegan (and low-carb) options. (The zoodles were new on our visit, and the Park Fare team was super excited about them!) Plant-Based Zoodle Salad and Roasted Cauliflower Mild Italian Sausage and Chicken Saltimbucca provide some meaty variety to the buffet. Mild Italian Sausage and Chicken Saltimbucca Warm sides include the Potato and Pea Curry and Braised Carrots with Shallots. Potato and Pea Curry and Braised Carrots with Shallots Mashed Potatoes with Butter aren’t anything to write home about — but they’re a solid option for picky eaters! Mashed Potatoes We did have some tasty Green Beans, and the Stir Fry Manchurian Beef did have decent flavor… although it’s pretty saucy for a stir fry. Green Beans and Stir Fry Manchurian Beef Jasmine Rice is a good basic starch for the the Beef, though. Jasmine Rice Mississippi Fried Catfish and Ratatouille offer regional variety. Ratatouille and Mississippi Fried Catfish The creamy Butternut Squash Ravioli was a better-than-average buffet pasta dish, and the Cheese Tortellini was fine. Ravioli Cheese Tortellini Carnivores may enjoy Lemon Pepper Chicken Wings and Pulled Pork. Lemon Pepper Wings and Pulled Pork And while fish is often a dicey buffet choice, the Salmon with Balsamic Glaze and Olive Tapenade is a flavorful selection. Salmon with Balsamic Glaze and Olive Tapenade Note that on our visit, the carving station was serving up Herb-Crusted Prime Rib, so if you don’t eat or enjoy beef, your animal proteins are limited to the meats and fish on the buffet hot bar. The kids’ buffet, frankly, is sort of our favorite part. Chicken Nuggets, Corn, Macaroni and Cheese, Pasta with Tomato Sauce, and Pizza are staples for little ones… and picky ones… and ones who only eat chicken nuggets on vacation and just can’t enough. (We’ll let you decide which category we fall into… .) It goes without saying: diners of any age are welcome to enjoy the kids’ buffet offerings. Kids’ Menu Kids’ Buffet Cheese Pizza Sauce and Pasta Hot Dogs and Meatballs are a fun addition to the buffet, and for parents of kids who, like, only want to eat hot dogs, they’re also a life-saver! Hot Dogs and Meatballs Hot Dog Rolls and Ketchup Of course there are a couple of bread options at 1900 Park Fare’s dinner buffet, including Cornbread and Dinner Rolls. Cornbread Rolls and Butter There are condiments and toppings to dress up the various buffet dishes. Sunflower seeds, Parmesan cheese, lo mein noodles, raisins, crumbled bacon, and more are on hand. Toppings And near the carving station we found Horseradish Sauce and Chimichurri. Horseradish Sauce and Chimichurri And some seriously sad Turkey Gravy keeps company with Beef Au Jus. Gravies On second thought, maybe we should’ve just eaten dessert for dinner, because these were actually pretty good! The Apple Cobbler wasn’t super saucy, which is a bit of a bummer… Peach Cobbler …but the Bread Pudding has a nice side of Creme Anglaise, which you can pour over anything. Bread Pudding Pyramids of Krispie Treats and Brownies are always popular. Krispie Treats Chocolate Brownies Key Lime Pie in mini form is still delicious. We could’ve stood a little more toasting of the meringue, but they were otherwise good! Key Lime Pie The Cheesecakes are in the same sturdy graham cracker tart crust as the pie above and tasted fine. Cheesecake Miniature Cannolis are a fun addition, too! The ricotta filling was a little overly sweet, but the crunchy shells were satisfying. Cannoli Simple mini Chocolate Cupcakes are garnished with colorful chocolate ribbons. Cupcakes Chocolate Mousse is served in Chocolate Cups with Chocolate Cigars, in case you prefer your chocolate with more chocolate. Chocolate Mousse And who doesn’t love a Cream Puff? These are okay on their own, and they’re even better dunked into 1900 Park Fare’s famous Strawberry Soup! Cream Puffs This creamy Strawberry Soup is a crowd favorite, and it’s pretty easy to replicate at home. (Find the recipe here!) Strawberry Soup Strawberry Soup Fresh Fruit is also available! Fresh Fruit Finally: Gummy Bears. Because why not? Gummy Bears So the offerings for dinner at 1900 Park Fare are fairly diverse, and there’s likely something for everyone who’s looking to fill up (even if they’re filling up on Chicken Nuggets and Pizza). Characters We’d be remiss if we didn’t share some classic shots of the characters who typically circulate during 1900 Park Fare’s dinner service. Cinderella and her prince host the dinner. Cinderella and Prince Charming During the meal, you may catch the love birds twirling about. (Eyes up here, sir!) Dancing You can snag your pictures of Cinderella and her Prince separately as they come around to your table for chats and autographs. Cinderella Prince Charming But the real star tends to be Lady Tremaine, whose biting wit keeps diners chuckling. At my meal, she told me that she invented dancing. Lady Tremaine Anastasia is always ready to pose, just in case her prince comes along. Anastasia And Drizella has what we can only assume will be Disney’s next big merchandise push: giant bow headbands. (See, they’ve already started!) Drizella Seriously, though: this is one meal where the characters are easily the best part of the experience. Nosh or Not Steer your horse and carriage to 1900 Park Fare if: You must meet Cinderella and her crew (or Alice and her friends in the morning). You like simple buffet food, and you’ll be happy with these offerings. You want to eat at Disney’s Grand Floridian, and this restaurant seems to suit your purposes more than the others. Dine elsewhere if: You’re looking for a more high-end experience with your family. Character meals totally aren’t your jam. You don’t plan on eating table service or buffet meals — you’re all about quick service! Overall 1900 Park Fare has its place. If you really want to meet Cinderella, Pooh, or Alice without paying for a park ticket, this is your spot for sure! The buffet food has actually gotten better since my last visit. Though it’s still nothing to write home about, I can see they’re really trying to hop onto trends (ZOODLES!) and offer a variety of compelling choices for people who enjoy different kinds of foods and cuisines. And we hear from plenty of readers who love and swear by their meals here, and the character interactions with Cinderella’s step-family can be truly hysterical and memorable. But this is very much still a kid-centric, packed to the gills buffet character meal. It’s loud, crowded, and can definitely be unappetizing if you’re not ready for what you’re getting into. So keep that in mind, first-timers! Have you dined at 1900 Park Fare? What was your experience like? Share with us in the comments! Related posts: Review: Crystal Palace at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Breakfast and Lunch Review! We ate TWO Meals at Once at Tusker House in Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Book Brunch at Disney World’s Grand Floridian Cafe Right Now. You’re Welcome. View the full article