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In April of this year, Disneyland Resort announced that two brand new character meals were coming to the resort — and in true @DiningInDisney fashion, our Disneyland correspondent Heather Sievers was all over it! She enjoyed Mickey’s Tales of Adventure Breakfast Buffet (which is billed as a Brunch Buffet on weekends and select Mondays and holidays!) at Storytellers Cafe in Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel — and it. was. awesome. Storytellers Cafe This buffet brings Mickey, Minnie, Pluto, Chip, and Dale in their finest adventuring attire — and Heather received this cute button on her visit, too! Doesn’t Mickey look ready for fun? Mickey’s Tales of Adventure Breakfast and Brunch Mickey’s prepared with his hat, cargo vest, and cross-body bag. We like to think he’s packed extra cookies and krispie treats in there. Mickey’s Tales of Adventure with… Mickey! In hiking gear! He’s also sporting this sweet hiking boots! He’s so cute I can’t even stand it. Check out his boots! Minnie is a little more fashion-forward, in a short trench coat and patterned shirt. Minnie Mouse in her adventure gear! But she’s got hiking boots, too! We’re pretty sure there’s a heel on there, so maybe these aren’t the most practical hiking boots, but style is style my friends! Minnie’s boots! We love her hat, complete with a butterfly and patterned trim. She really looks fabulous. Minnie is ready for adventure! Chip visited in a handy vest and bucket hat. He’s colorful and ready for action! Chip (Dale is here, too!) is all geared up! And so are the drinks! This Sparkling Californian is a mimosa sunrise, and the gradient of color is beautiful. Sparkling Californian The Ultimate Bloody Mary is garnished with cucumber, an olive, and a lime wedge. Ultimate Bloody Mary A Mimosa Flight is a ton of fun, featuring Raspberry, Cranberry, Peach, and Orange. It’s basically juice, right? Bring it on! Mimosa Flight For non-alcoholic options, check out these fun agua frescas! Minnie’s first Agua Fresca is pineapple, mint, cucumber, and lime. Her second offering is watermelon, lemon, and basil. So fresh! Agua Fresca The set-up has large drinking glasses — so load up! Agua fresca station! The big beverage draw here, though, is something a little more unusual: Cereal Milk. In this case, Pluto has infused milk with Fruit Loops and Cinnamon Toast Crunch! These bags of milk (bags a little awkward but interesting) are super sweet and definitely full of cereal flavor. Cereal Milk! Prefer your milk and cereal prepared more traditionally? With, you know, cereal floating in the milk? There are small boxes of various types for you as well. Cereal and Milk Diners will find tons of breakfast and brunch options on the buffet, including some basic pancakes and mini Mickey Waffles! Pancakes and Mickey Waffles There are also bagels and cream cheese. Bagels and Cream Cheese Bagels and lox are also available, already loaded up with cream cheese, salmon, red onions, and parsley. Bagels and Lox The Four-Cheese Quiche is thick and creamy, with a nice crust. Four Cheese Quiche Breakfast nachos are a delicious mess (but seriously — all nachos are a delicious mess). Breakfast Nachos Savory options continue with Camp Fire Loaded Potatoes. These tasty bites are packed with peppers. Camp Fire Loaded Potatoes A fresh Pasta Salad is available, too. And here’s a pro-tip: if you plan your breakfast for later in the morning, you can also enjoy the lunch-y brunch items and more desserts! Pasta Salad Chocolate Bread Pudding holds court on the sweet side of things at Mickey’s breakfast. Chocolate Bread Pudding And there are several desserts, including Coconut Cupcakes. Coconut Cupcakes These Chocolate Peanut Butter Tarts are totally rich and indulgent. Chocolate Peanut Butter Tart And this Chocolate Cheesecake is the height of decadence. We love the chocolate shavings and colorful flowers on top. Chocolate Cheesecake And what’s a Disney buffet without a fun character cupcake? Chip and Dale are celebrated here, with colorful frosting and lots of Mickey sprinkles. Chip and Dale Cupcake It’s true: Mickey knows how to throw a breakfast/brunch buffet. And this one at Storytellers Cafe is so sweet! We love the characters in their adventuring best, and while the eats aren’t exactly off the beaten path, they’re delicious and abundant. Plus: Cereal Milk! Check out more Disneyland Food Reviews Here!! Heather Sievers is DisneyFoodBlog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist! Check out more of her adventures at @DininginDisney on Instagram! What’s your favorite part of a character meal? Tell us in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Storytellers Cafe at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa Review: Storytellers Cafe at Disney’s Grand Californian Resort Disney Recipe: Corn Chowder Soup from Storytellers Cafe at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Resort View the full article

The lagoon at Epcot where Disney World shoots off fireworks for its nightly IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth show is getting electrical work worth more than $2 million. Could that signal changes are happening? Speculation has circulated this year that something might replace the longtime Epcot... View the full article

Disney World is already busy preparing for the Holiday Season, and recently announced a new addition to the festivities for 2018! The Disney Ink & Paint Club offers a VIP lounge experience which can be added as an enhancement to the Disney Countdown to Midnight Party at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Disney’s Contemporary Resort The themed lounge (located in The Sorcerer’s Apprentice Ballroom) will pay tribute to the Ink and Paint department of Walt Disney Animation Studios, and will pay homage to the era when animated legends debuted on the big screen. Mickey and Minnie will be meeting and greeting guests while a pianist performs and adds to the ambience. This special reception begins an hour before Disney Countdown to Midnight and features chef stations serving items such as Whole Alaskan Dutch Harbor King Crab, Tuna Tartare, Sheep’s Milk Ricotta Gnocchi, Calvados-glazed pork, Lobster Thermidor macaroni and cheese, and Lion of rabbit wrapped in bacon. Cocktails, Champagne, and Cordials will also be served throughout the night at the bar. Champagne Disney Ink & Paint Club is only available as a part of an enhanced ticket that includes access to both the Disney Countdown to Midnight and the Ink & Paint Club for $450 total per guest. After the announcement, booking was immediately available by calling (407)WDW-DINE, but now booking is also available online, where interested guests can also explore all the menu highlights in addition to full event information regarding parking, dress, and more. Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney World Fun This Holiday Season! The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 is a one-of-a-kind resource that will help you get the most out of your holiday vacation at Walt Disney World. Pre-order The DFB Guide to the Walt Disney World® Holidays 2018 and get the 2017 edition as a free, instant download! It includes over 400 pages of must-have information, including: A full What’s New!! chapter for the 2018 Holiday Season A full Monthly Schedule of Events for the Holiday Season How to avoid the crowds on Disney World’s busiest days (and when Disney World closes their parks due to capacity!) ALL of the events, activities, and holiday additions in Walt Disney World. ALL. OF. THEM. And of course we’ll tell you where to eat! ;-D Pre-order your 2018 Guide now and get 20% off with code PEPPERMINT! As always, our e-Books are 100% guaranteed! If you don’t love it, you get your money back! Are you hoping to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Disney World? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New Year’s Eve Celebration at Yacht & Beach Club Resort to Feature Adventurers Club Entertainment News: New Year’s Eve Events at Disney’s Contemporary Resort Available for Booking July 11 News: Paint the Night Parade Packages Available for Booking in Disneyland Resort View the full article

Pixar Animation Studios director and animator Mark Walsh joined guests last month at the ultimate glow party of the summer — Disney H2O Glow Nights at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. Mark directed the Toy Story Toon, “Partysaurus Rex,” a short film about Rex’s fun and luminous party with the bath toys. Mark made a splash at the nighttime event with the star of his film, Partysaurus Rex, where his short film truly comes to life! Mark has worked as an animator on some Pixar favorites, including “Ratatouille,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo,” “Toy Story 2,” and “A Bug’s Life.” Disney H2O Glow Nights is select nights until August 11th where guest can make waves under the glow of neon lights. Some activities include a DJ Dance Party on the beach, meeting Toy Story friends, playing party games, and exclusive nighttime enjoyment of Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park with minimal water park attraction wait time. Take a look at the video to see all the fun Mark had with Partysaurus Rex and friends as they lit up the night! View the full article

Summer has flown by so quickly! Although, in Florida el verano is year-round, I’m sure you want to enjoy the last days of summer break out in the sun and having fun. And what better way of doing this than staying in the middle of the magic at Walt Disney World Resort with your familia! From enjoying the newly opened Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to meeting Edna Mode at Incredible Tomorrowland Expo at Magic Kingdom, you and your loved ones will be are sure to enjoy los últimos días del verano. With this increíble oferta, a family of four will enjoy a package that includes a 4-night stay in a standard room at a select Disney’s All-Star Resort hotel and 4-day Magic Your Way base tickets for as low as $2,155*. You can book through August 1, 2018 for stays most Sunday through Thursday nights through August 30, 2018. Click here for more details about this Fun-Filled Family Vacation Package and to reservar hoy. *Price based on 2 adults, 1 junior (ages 10-17) and 1 child (ages 3 -9). The number of packages available at this rate is limited. Savings based on the non-discounted price of the same package. Tickets are valid for one Theme Park per day and must be used within 14 days of first use. Cannot be combined with any other discount or promotion. Advance reservations required. View the full article

In a previous post I shared photo highlights from the first three days of the all-new Adventures by Disney Iceland vacation. From waterfalls to Iceland horses, glacial lakes and more, this adventure to Iceland is truly astounding. Now I have even more amazing photos to share, showcasing the fun adventurers have on the second half of this 8-day, 7-night vacation. On day 4 of the trip, adventurers jetted off to the Northern part of Iceland, arriving at Akureyri. Here they visited a quaint fishing village, and even had the chance to try their hand at fishing (while donning some pretty impressive fishing gear). While cruising through the longest fjord in Iceland, guests spotted humpback whales who surfaced to say “hello!” Adventurers got a look at a distinctive Icelandic turf house, dating back to the 1800s, and explored the picturesque Goðafoss Waterfall, which translates to “Waterfall of the Gods.” A visit to the lava fields at Dimmuborgir allowed guests to see where the landscape, which means “black castle,” gets its name. The lava pillars, columns and arches here were created more than 2,000 years ago. Adventurers also had fun getting into the local legends and customs. Yule Lads, mischievous boys who are akin to a trouble-making Santa Claus, made a special visit. And, guests took part in baking Iceland’s famous brown Geysir bread, which the locals commonly call “Bread in a Bucket,” where dough is placed in buckets, buried underground and baked by the heat from nearby hot springs. These are just a few of the highlights from the first season of this awe-inspiring vacation. If Iceland wasn’t at the top of your “must see” list, I’m sure it is now! Make a wish, or simply call and book your dream adventure to this magical land. View the full article

What’s the latest gelato sensation at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs? Following the King’s Shake and Cannoli Shake is the new Open Faced Croissant Sundae! ©Vivoli il Gelato A buttery croissant is topped with the guest’s choice of three scoops of gelato, one sauce (either chocolate or caramel), and whipped cream. Need a few recommendations for your gelato choice? Consider Riso (rice pudding), hazelnut, black cherry, or chocolate chip… among many others! The cost is $10.00… and remember, that includes THREE SCOOPS of gelato! All I have to say is… YES, please!! What will they think of next?! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Don’t Miss Out on the ALL the Best Snacks Walt Disney World Has to Offer! Get four awesome e-Books FULL of Disney park dining advice, bundled for 30% off the already discounted price! Yep, we’ve scoured the parks to find any and all snack choices — from the mundane to the spectacular — and we tell you all about them (with full-color pictures!) in our snack guides! These are updated every year, so you know your guide will be perfect for your upcoming trip, and they’re bundled with our DFB Guide to WDW Dining! This money-saving bundle includes all of the following: The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks All four are being sold together — for 30% off the already hugely discounted bundle price. Use code BUNDLE18 at check out to get the discount. It’s a $63 value for under $30!! With this Bundle of e-books you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips to plan the best Disney World vacation ever. And with our handy e-book format, you can download the Guides to all of your electronic devices and take them with you wherever you go! And with our 100% money-back guarantee, what do you have to lose? Would you like to try the Open Faced Croissant Sundae? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Creamsicle Float and Nutella Brownie Sundae at Vivoli il Gelato in Disney Springs News: Vivoli il Gelato Debuts Tiramisu Gelato for a Limited Time Review: Croissant Salé at Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie View the full article

Here’s another reason you may want to utilize Mobile Order if you’re visiting Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land… Woody’s Lunch Box Not only will the ability to pre-order and pre-pay for your food save you time at this very popular new Counter Service restaurant, but you may also happen upon a Secret Menu item! Grown-Ups’ Lemonade on Mobile Order Though you won’t find this option on the menu sign at Woody’s Lunch Box, Mobile Order gives you the option to add a scoop of ice cream to your Grown-Ups’ Lemonade! Add Ice Cream for a Float on Mobile Order! We LOVED this refreshing mix of Three Olives Cherry Vodka, lemonade, and black cherry puree, and totally dig the thought of turning it into a Float! Grown-Ups’ Lemonade So while the kiddos are enjoying their own Soda Float, guests 21-and-over can enjoy a fun Float option made just for them! Check out our step-by-step guide to Mobile Order here! And be sure to watch our DFB YouTube Video to check out ALL the fun you can look forward to in Toy Story Land! Would you like to try a Grown-Ups’ Lemonade Float? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: How to Avoid the Lines at Woody’s Lunch Box When It Opens in Toy Story Land Breaking! Menu for Woody’s Lunch Box in Disney World’s Toy Story Land Revealed! EVERYTHING ON THE MENU Review: Woody’s Lunch Box Lunch/Dinner at Disney World’s Toy Story Land View the full article

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant is already famous for being the go-to spot for a perfect pint of Guinness or an order of expertly prepared fish and chips, and for years, their entertainment line-up has been among the most popular at Disney Springs. I’m one of the venue’s most ardent fans, so I was thrilled (and a bit surprised!) when I learned that they were investing in an even more impressive array of music and dance for their stages. A brand-new show – Rhythms of Raglan 2018 – just launched after months of rehearsals in Ireland; it leverages the pub’s stunning video backdrop, crisp acoustics and the very best in Irish talent. Raglan Road Show Director, David Hayes, promises “an authentic cultural journey that’s both ‘lyrical and rollicking’ … it will take us from Ireland’s Ancient East to the most contemporary of Irish traditional musical content and ideas, all topped off with dance routines that punch and float in equal measure.” The Raglan Road team passed along some fun facts about the new production, and they were so good I had to share with all of you: 4 new shows throughout each evening, plus a new weekend Rollicking Raglan Brunch show 16 musicians (11 new and 5 returning musicians, including two Scots) 1 “absolutely cracking” new Raglan Road dance troupe with 8 new Irish dancers and one troupe veteran, many who have toured the world 16 new dance routines and 14 new songs 55 new pieces of musical content from songs and instrumentals to jigs and reels that show the journey of Irish music throughout the world from Trad to Celtic Rock to Funk, Latin, Bluegrass A suite of stage shows telling the musical and visual stories of Ireland’s culture that spans thousands of years from ancient times to today A brand-new tech department and 3 new engineers 2 video production designers whose vibrant set pieces include a black-and-white musical hero tableau through the ages that include Luke Kelly, Van Morrison, The Dubliners, Sinead O’Conner, U2 and many more Nearly 70 hours per week of live Raglan Road entertainment – 80 hours on the Grand Room stage, 80 on the patio, plus additional performances in the Raglan Room and Music Room In addition to the new Grand Room stage show, the location recently introduced a new late-night band, Strings and Things, and two additional new acts – TradGad and High Road – alongside the return of Reel Republic with additional new musicians. As before, there is no cover charge to enjoy Raglan Road entertainment so make plans to check out the new line-up the next time you visit Disney Springs! For more information, visit http://www.raglanroad.com. View the full article

Terralina Crafted Italian, Disney Springs’ newest restaurant, opened earlier this month, and we dig the tasty menu of Italian favorites. Terralina Crafted Italian We were especially fans of the Spaghetti Fritters, which are crunchy little balls of deliciousness. Spaghetti Fritters — YES, PLEASE. And starting NOW, Terralina is offering a late-night happy hour from 9PM to 11PM, Sunday through Thursday! Wine at Terralina Crafted Italian Happy hour is on the patio ONLY and includes $5 beers and half-price wines (by the glass). It’s hard to imagine a more idyllic place to relax with a glass of wine on a warm Florida night. Terralina Crafted Italian Patio Also on July 23, Happy Hour returned to Paddlefish — from 2PM to 4PM in the bar and from 9PM to 11PM on the Rooftop Deck! Happy Hour attendees can enjoy $5 draft beers and $20 bottles of rosé. Rooftop Bar — Inside We already know that Disney Springs is the place for late-night fun at Walt Disney World, and now with two stylish (and delicious) places to kick back, it’s even better! Don’t miss out on any of the Walt Disney World news! Sign up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter today, and always be in the know! What’s your late-night Disney style? Let us know in the comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: A #SneakPeek at Menu Items for Terralina Crafted Italian in Disney Springs Advance Dining Reservations for Terralina Crafted Italian Now Available News: Terralina Crafted Italian to Open in Disney Springs this Fall View the full article

Walt Disney World is giving special access to Epcot and Magic to some passholders after the theme parks close to the rest of the public. The deal is for people who have Gold, Platinum, Platinum Plus or Premier passes and is available on a first-come, first-serve basis, Disney told passholders in... View the full article

Heads up to select Disney World Annual Passholders (Gold, Platinum, Platinum Plus, and Premier)! Check your registered emails for your My Disney Experience account, because you may be receiving an invitation from Disney for the new V.I.Passholder Nights! Passholders are currently receiving messages in phases for this new event. Guests can choose — based upon availability — from the following: Magic Kingdom: Sunday, August 5, 10:00 PM – 12:00 AM Epcot: Thursday, September 6, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM Epcot: Thursday, October 25, 9:00 PM – 11:00 PM Registered guests will have access to select attractions, and select Food Booths will also be open for the Epcot events! Select Food and Wine Festival Booths will be open at Epcot Also note that V.I.Passholder Nights are part of a new V.I.Passholder events series, which will also include passholder-exclusive in-park offerings like giveaways and sneak peeks of select new park offerings. Be sure to check your email for further information! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! Are you hoping to attend V.I.Passholder Nights? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Toy Story Land Passholder Play Time Open for Registration for Select Disney World Annual Passholders Select Disney World Annual Passholders to Receive Exclusive Toy Story Land Access During “Passholder Play Time” News: Disney World Annual Passholder 45th Anniversary Dining Discounts Extended View the full article

The Holiday Season will officially kick off at Disneyland Resort on November 9, 2018! Disney Festival of Holidays From November 9, 2018 through January 6, 2019, special holiday events will take place throughout Disneyland Resort, including the Festival of Holidays in Disney California Adventure! Festival of Holidays! This Festival celebrates the sights, sounds, and tastes of the season in various ways, and we can’t wait to see what the Festive Foods Marketplaces (Food Booths!) will be serving up for the event this year! A Twist on Tradition Festive Foods Marketplace The Disney ¡Viva Navidad! Street Party will also return, and Luigi’s Joy Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree (holiday overlays to the popular attractions) will return again to Cars Land. In Disneyland, guests can anticipate the return of Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, the “Believe… in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular, and “A Christmas Fantasy” Parade. Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle Haunted Mansion and “it’s a small world” will also receive their holiday makeovers again! So get ready to start making your Disneyland holiday plans… You can start right here! Find out about all the Disneyland Food you can enjoy all year long on our Disneyland Page! Are you excited to make plans for celebrating the Holiday Season in Disneyland? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Festival of Holidays Returns to Disney California Adventure on November 10 Sneak Peek: NEW Festival Marketplace Booths for the Disneyland Festival of Holidays! News! Disneyland Festival of Holidays BOOTH MENUS AND PRICES!! View the full article

From the moment you step aboard a Disney ship, chances are your smartphone is nearby. And not just to take selfies and countless family photos! Our Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is a favorite part of the Disney cruise experience, as it keeps you informed of the fun happening all cruise long and lets you stay in touch with family and friends onboard. Now, you can enjoy a brand-new design and enhanced features of this incredibly handy mobile app, making it more convenient and even easier to use. Here are some highlights: Horizontal Scrollable Menu – This new design gives you quicker access to learn what’s happening when and where each day. You can view the day’s activities all at once or filter to narrow down what you want to see. Quick Access to Cruise Details – The Disney Cruise Line button at the bottom of the screen instantly takes you to your personalized plans and other important cruise information. My Plans – Once you link your cruise reservation, your dining schedule, Port Adventures and onboard reservations (Palo, Senses Spa & Salon, beverage tastings, etc.), plus activities you “favorite” in the app, will magically appear. Ship Tips – Get helpful tips for your voyage, like safety reminders and information for guests with disabilities. Spotlight at Sea – This section includes information about offerings such as Senses Spa & Salon, Palo, Remy, Shutters photo packages, onboard merchandise and more. All these new features are in addition to what you already love about the app: individual and group chats with friends and family onboard, deck plans of the ship, a map of Castaway Cay, plus information about dining, entertainment, shopping, youth clubs, character experiences, ports of call and more. Our printed Personal Navigator, a quick glance at the day’s activities, has always been a great way to plan your family’s cruise agenda. We raised that to a new level when we introduced our mobile app, the electronic version of the Navigator, giving you the chance to see what’s happening during the entire cruise at once. I love how you can save your favorites to one convenient list and receive notifications when your selected activities are about to begin. Now, we’re excited to bring you even more great features! The Disney Cruise Line Navigator app is available for Apple and Android smartphones and is free to download and use. Be sure to download the latest update before you leave home, and stay tuned for even more enhancements coming soon. View the full article

Holidays at the Disneyland Resort will return once again this year, bringing seasonal magic to the Merriest Place on Earth November 9 through January 6. This festive season will include the return of favorite holiday experiences and entertainment, as well as dazzling decor decked out throughout the resort! At Disney California Adventure park, Festival of Holidays will again bring the spirit of the season to life through special entertainment, including the return of Disney ¡Viva Navidad! street party. Delicious food at the guest-favorite Festive Foods Marketplace will present a mix of holiday dishes and beverages that bridge many diverse cultures and family traditions. For the residents of Cars Land, two attractions will receive their holiday overlay again this year to become Luigi’s Joy to the Whirl and Mater’s Jingle Jamboree. At Disneyland park, seasonal fan favorites return, including the enchanting Sleeping Beauty’s Winter Castle, “Believe … in Holiday Magic” fireworks spectacular and magical “A Christmas Fantasy” parade. In addition, seasonal transformations will once again take over “it’s a small world” Holiday and Haunted Mansion Holiday. Check back on the Disney Parks Blog for more details as we get closer to the start of Holidays at the Disneyland Resort on November 9! View the full article

It’s time to visit Frontera Cocina once again! Learn About: Frontera Cocina Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless opened Frontera Cocina in the Town Center of Disney Springs just over two years ago. In addition to his restaurant ventures, Chef Bayless is also well known as the host of the PBS show “Mexico—One Plate at a Time.” And Frontera Cocina keeps the focus on authentic Mexican cuisine. On this visit, we were able to try items from a new specialty menu: the Taste of Yucatan! Additionally, we were also able to sample new items recently added to the regular menu while we were guests at this Media Event. Frontera Cocina It really is a pleasure to step back into this colorful, charming space. Main dining area, to the right upon entering Chandelier The Wall of Fame And it’s even better when Chef Bayless himself is there! Chef Rick Bayless We’ll start with the new, limited time Taste of Yucatan menu. Taste of Yucatan Menu The Taste of Yucatan menu features a la carte items (as opposed to a prix fixe menu), so as long as these items available you can mix and match with items from the regular menu as well. And we’ll be taking a look at some new items on the regular menu, too. But we’ll start with items specific to the Taste of Yucatan menu as seen above. We’ll start with the Featured Drinks, which include the Spicy Yucatan Margarita: Milagro blanco tequila, achiote cordial, Ancho Reyes liqueur, fresh lime-orange juice, and habanero bitters. Spicy Yucatan Margarita Rather than being spicy (in my opinion), I found it to be very smooth with its unique flavors. My favorite of the two drinks we tried was the La Peninsula, which mixes Montelobos joven mescal with dragon fruit, Huana Maya guanabana rum liqueur, agave nectar. and ginger reduction. La Peninsula Outside of its gorgeous and vivid color, it’s VERY smoky — and I loved the sweet-and-smoky combo. La Peninsula However, you really do need to have a taste for that smoky flavor (which I do!) to enjoy this, since it’s prominent. The starter option is the Mango Guacamole Starter. Mango Guacamole This colorful creation takes the super creamy guacamole that Frontera Cocina already does very well, and enhances it with roasted tomatillo, chunks of fresh mango, Tajin (chili-lime spice), cilantro, and red onion. Mango Guacamole The additions deliver a really nice tang to the guacamole, and it was absolutely delicious. Our server also informed us that all guacamole starts (including this new one) come with the smoky chipotle and herby salsa as well. Of the two entrees, we’ll start with the Spicy Grilled Yucatan Swordfish, and this is a solid choice for seafood lovers. Spicy Grilled Yucatan Swordfish The tasty coating and seasoning were brought to the forefront by the lovely sear and texture. It’s very flavorful and enjoyable. Spicy Grilled Yucatan Swordfish Cochinita Pitbil was one of my favorites of the night. Cochinita Pibil The pork was super tender, and the habanero salsa served with it is CRAZY spicy and so good! Cochinita Pibil Habanero Salsa An absolute highlight of the new menu for me was the Mango Sorbet dessert, which is drizzled with a spciy-tangy chamoy sauce. Mango Sorbet Personally, I simply enjoyed how cool, fruity, and refreshing the dessert was. But Chef Bayless shared that when the staff tried it — specifically those with Mexican families or backgrounds — they had big smiles on their faces because it reminded them of their childhoods. Mango Sorbet Now we’ll move on to the new offerings on the regular menu. You’ll find the Toto Elotes under the Starters. Fresh chips are topped with roasted corn, lime crema, and red chile Cotija cheese. Toto Elotes This was another favorite of the night! Super flavorful and simply awesome, this is Frontera Cocina’s their version of the popular Mexican street corn as a sharable appetizer. Toto Elotes The Beet Mango Salad is the newest of the three salads you’ll find on the menu. It’s made of roasted beets, Mexican mangos, “little gem” lettuces, goat cheese, crunchy pumpkin seeds, red onion, and a chipotle agave dressing. Beet Mango Salad It’s a good salad, but not particularly memorable. Though I did enjoy the crunch and texture from the pumpkin seeds, lending it a bit of a unique quality. The Grilled Hatch Green Chile Chicken for Making Soft Tacos (yep, that’s the name!) takes grilled chicken and tops it with Hatch green chile crema, caramelized onions, refried black beans with queso fresco, guacamole, and tomatillo salsa. It’s served with warm tortillas. Grilled Hatch Green Chile Chicken I thought both the chicken and tomatillo salsa were terrific. Grilled Hatch Green Chile Chicken But the beans and rice — just sort of meh — didn’t stand up to the tastiness of the chicken. A vegetarian option along those same lines is the Roasted Vegetables a la Mexicana for Making Soft Tacos, with grilled calabacitas, roasted corn, poblano lime crema, Cojita cheese, cilantro, and refried red beans. Naturally, this is also served with warm corn tortillas. Roasted Vegetables a la Mexicana Chef Bayless said it was reminiscent of the way his grandmother used to prepare these in that she would just put everything on the table and each family member would make their own tacos. Roasted Vegetables a la Mexicana I actually enjoyed this one more than the chicken version, finding the garlicky beans to be really flavorful, and just a better dish overall. Roasted Vegetables a la Mexicana Finally, the Chipotle Shrimp dish is comprised of pan-roasted Florida Pink Shrimp, spicy chipotle salsa, roasted calabacitas, avocado, Cotija, cilantro and onions, plantain rice, and warm corn tortillas. Chipotle Shrimp The shrimp were juicy and tasty, but in comparison to the pork dish from the Yucatan menu, this overall dish was just okay. Chipotle Shrimp Still, all in all I’d have to say I was pleased with both the Yucatan menu and the new regular menu items! These offer more great choices to an already solid menu at Frontera Cocina. Frontera Cocina is located in the Town Center of Disney Springs, and you can take a tour of all of the restaurants — including Frontera Cocina — in our DFB YouTube Video! 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. We were invited by Frontera Cocina to experience their new menu items. 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 Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Reservations and Menu Now Available for Frontera Cocina by Rick Bayless in Disney Springs News: Frontera Cocina by Rick Bayless to Open June 27th in Disney Springs Review: Frontera Cocina by Rick Bayless in Disney Springs View the full article

If you’re thinking about booking your Free Dining Offer at Walt Disney World…well, your time is almost UP! The booking date for Free Dining closes August 1! Cinderella Castle in Magic Kingdom But Free Dining isn’t the only Disney vacation offer with an upcoming end date for booking! August 1 is also the last day to book the Incredible Summer vacation deal and Free Dining for Kids! If you’re going to be booking any of these Disney vacation offers — or others like the Ultimate Fall Into Magic Offer or the Magic Holidays Offer — we recommend using a travel agent to make your vacation plans! Thinking About Booking? Time to Grab Onto The Best Travel Agents in the Business No, seriously, they’re the best. And here’s why you want to go with the best: fastpasses that need to be booked 60 days in advance dining that needs to be booked 180 days in advance, over 30 hotels on property and hundreds off property dessert parties tours, activities, and more… It’s overwhelming to try to figure it all out. Jumbo Mickey Waffle Here at DFB we recommend the agents at Small World Vacations to plan all of our travel needs! Your travel agent can MAKE THIS EASY! They can advise you on resort choice, vacation package, and tickets that will suit your family’s unique needs. They make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. They’ve been there and done that, and they can tell you the most stress-free way to have your best vacation ever. And remember, using a travel agent is FREE! Don’t forget to maximize the Dining Plan! If you book a 2018 Walt Disney World Vacation Package with table service dining, you will receive one FREE digital e-Book, the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining valued at $19.95. This guide helps you to get the most out of your Disney Dining Experience! So let’s review: Using a travel agent takes the stress out of booking your Disney World vacation Using a travel agent is FREE, and If you book through Small World Vacations you’ll get a FREE DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 e-book! It’s time to get started! Simply head over to Small World Vacations and Let the Magic Begin! Remember – the deadline to book Free Dining, the Incredible Summer package discount, or Free Dining for Kids is August 1! Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise. Their agents compare current offers to find the best deal for you — they’ve literally saved their guests millions of dollars since 1996. Plus, their services are 100% FREE FOR YOU! (They’re DFB’s recommended travel agency, and you can see why here!) So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: 2018 Disney World Free Dining Offer Now Available! 2018 Disney World Free Dining Offer for Disney Visa Cardholders News! 2016 Disney World Free Dining Offer Now Available! View the full article

If nobody likes a name-dropper, this may be among my least likable posts. I’m writing today from Disney’s Castaway Cay, where my fellow “castaways” include people like Pixar Animation Studios Chief Creative Officer Pete Docter; Oscar-, Grammy- and Emmy-winning composer Michael Giacchino; Walt Disney Animation Studios filmmakers Jared Bush (screenwriter of “Moana” and “Zootopia”) and Josie Trinidad (head of story on the highly anticipated “Ralph Breaks the Internet”); Roy Patrick Disney (son of the late Disney Legend Roy E. Disney and grandson of company co-founder Roy O. Disney); Disney Legends Bill Farmer (longtime voice of Goofy) and Floyd Norman (a still-working animator hired by Walt Disney himself); rising voice-acting star Bret Iwan (Mickey Mouse) and celebrity Chef Art Smith (whose Homecomin’ restaurant has become a Disney Springs staple), just to name a few. Why are they here? Because this is no ordinary cruise. It’s the Disney Vacation Club Member Cruise, the most spectacular example of what we call Membership Magic. Elevating the already extraordinary Disney Cruise Line experience with in-room gifts, special entertainment and more, Member Cruise voyages celebrate the past, present and future of Disney with insider presentations (hearing Roy share stories of what it was like to grow up in the Disney family has been captivating), live performances (this year’s range from performances by Disney’s new signing sensation DCappella to a finale concert from our friends at Disney on Broadway), sneak peeks (including this voyage’s full, advance screening of Disney’s “Christopher Robin,” opening in theaters Aug. 3) and one-of-a-kind experiences (tonight’s “Member Mouse Party on Deck” will cap our daylong celebration of 90 years of Mickey and Minnie with the biggest fireworks show in Member Cruise history). While Member Cruise voyages typically set sail once each year, 2019 will bring a Member Cruise to each U.S. coast, sailing May 15-20 aboard the Disney Magic out of San Diego (with stops in San Francisco and Victoria, British Columbia before culminating in Vancouver) and from Oct. 5-12 aboard the Disney Dream out of New York City (with stops in Boston and Bermuda). A limited number of staterooms remain available for those sailings, so call Member Services to book your stateroom. In the meantime, you can follow the fun of this year’s voyage on Facebook at Facebook.com/DisneyVacationClub. As for me, I need to go find a rake. We’re committed to keeping Castaway Cay clean, and I just dropped an awful lot of names in the sand. View the full article

Disney Water Parks are a must-do for my family each summer. At Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon, nothing beats the white sand, wave pool, slides, lazy river – and tasty treats – offered at this park. How well do you know this park? Put your knowledge to the test below. View the full article

#DisneyParksLIVE returns to Disney California Adventure park on Wednesday, July 25, with a live stream of “Paint the Night” parade. The electrifying “Paint the Night” parade features beloved Disney and Pixar characters and stories in Disney California Adventure park. More than 1 million brilliant lights, high-energy music and cutting-edge special effects create a dazzling parade experience for guests. The new float inspired by Disney•Pixar’s “The Incredibles” and “Incredibles 2” is already a fan highlight, showcasing the super powers of the Parr family and their pal Frozone through dynamic and innovative visual technology. Tune in for our live stream of “Paint the Night” parade on July 25 beginning at 8:50 p.m. PT on the Disney Parks Blog and join the conversation on Twitter at @DisneyParks! In the meantime, share your favorite ‘Paint the Night’ memory in the comments below! View the full article

In our continuing Christmas in July series, this week we are headed to the seas with Disney Cruise Line. The holidays start in early November with Disney Cruise Line as the cruise ships are magically transformed into holiday wonderlands and another season of Very Merrytime Cruises begin. The special holiday sailings are packed with festive events for young and old, and it is one of the most joyous places to spend your holiday season. “When we set sail on our first Very Merrytime Cruise, I remember being in awe of the life-size gingerbread house standing in the Lobby Atrium!” explains Disney Parks Moms Panelist, Beth. “From the moment we stepped onboard, the smell of gingerbread filled the air! Since then, whenever we smell gingerbread around the holidays, we always tell stories about our Very Merrytime Cruise!” A few of the winter parties and themed entertainment on the ships include: Mickey’s Tree-Lighting Magic Santa’s Winter Wonderland Ball Deck the Deck Holiday Party There will be holiday activities for the entire family including singing Christmas carols with Dickens-inspired carolers and building gingerbread houses. And did you know you can even bring your wrapped presents on board? Panelist, Stephanie L., explains that guests can bring wrapped packages on board either in checked luggage on in a carry-on. “There is always the chance that they need to be opened or searched, but that is on a case by case basis. Take a glance at the list of prohibited items and as long as you are not planning on gifting a bicycle or any other prohibited item, there should not be any issue with bringing wrapped gifts onboard. Hint: Disney gift cards make a great gift or stocking stuffer since they can be used in the onboard gift shops!” To celebrate the holidays, the Disney Magic sails four-, five- and seven-night Bahamian cruises, five- and six-night Eastern Caribbean cruises, and five-night Western Caribbean cruises departing Nov. 10 to Dec. 23; the Disney Wonder sails four-, six- and seven-night Western Caribbean cruises and seven-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 2 to Dec. 21; the Disney Dream sails three- and four-night Bahamian cruises departing from Nov. 9 to Dec. 24; and the Disney Fantasy sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises departing from Nov. 10 to Dec. 22. For more information on a Disney Cruise Line vacation, or for general Disney vacation planning tips, be sure to visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized response from our knowledgeable panel. Next week we wrap up our series with Christmas in July at the Disneyland Resort! View the full article

This weekend, five-time Grammy Award-winning gospel singer Yolanda Adams sailed aboard the Disney Dream to celebrate her daughter’s high school graduation with a Disney Cruise Line vacation! Yolanda has sold more than 4.5 million albums and is known by many as the “Queen of Contemporary Gospel Music.” After some quality time with the big cheese himself, Captain Mickey, Yolanda enjoyed a stop in Nassau, Bahamas, and a full day at Disney’s private island paradise, Castaway Cay, where the private beaches, activities and fun are exclusively reserved for Disney Cruise Line guests. Between the cruise ship, the tropical islands and all that Disney magic, Yolanda’s trip was essentially three vacations in one! Learn more about 3- and 4-night sailings from Port Canaveral that stop at Castaway Cay! View the full article

You may already be familiar with Restaurantosaurus in Animal Kingdom’s Dinoland, U.S.A. This popular Counter Service option serves up classics like Burgers and Chicken Nuggets in a super fun — and seriously funny (check it out here!) — atmosphere. Restaurantosaurus Sign Well, a new offering has just arrived at Restaurantosaurus! Should you find yourself in Dinoland looking for a spot to relax and unwind, you can visit the Restaurantosaurus Lounge! Restaurantosaurus Lounge sign The Lounge is open daily from 5:00 pm until park close during its three month trial period. When you see this sign, just enter through the door in the building behind it. (It’s on the left hand side of the restaurant.) Restaurantosaurus Lounge sign and entrance side You’ll find the check-in area is ready to greet you! Check-in area Liquor Bottles Guests can place their orders directly at the counter based on the menu offerings, which currently feature a selection of Cocktails like the Tequilasaurus margarita and Primordial Booze as well as Mocktails such as the Teal Rex and Paleontology Punch. Restaurantosaurus Lounge menu Two Small Bites are on offer: Buffalo Chicken Dip with House-made Chips and Sweet-and-Spicy Mixed Nuts. Then just find your seat! Restaurantosaurus Lounge A portion of the restaurant has been entirely dedicated to Lounge seating. Restaurantosaurus Lounge Candles have been placed upon the tables to inspire a more relaxing setting. Candle But, of course, the supplies and sights inside of the Paleontology storage area of the restaurant are still in place. Restaurantosaurus Lounge decor EXITosaurus Again, the Restaurantosaurus Lounge is on a trial run for three months. So if it meets with success, it may become a regular offering in the park. This isn’t the first time Disney has dedicated a portion of a Counter Service location to serve as a lounge. Anyone remember the Rebel Hangar Star Wars Lounge that was held at Backlot Express in Hollywood Studios for Star Wars Weekends in days of yore? Now, the Restaurantosaurus Lounge is by no means as highly themed as that experience, nor are the food and drink offerings as unique and diverse. (In fairness, though, this Lounge is not running as part of a special event such as Star Wars Weekends.) But if it survives the trial run, could it perhaps expand on its offerings and theme? And, if so, would you be interested in a more permanent Lounge in Dinoland? Please chime in with your thoughts! Want to stay informed of ALL the Disney News?? Sign Up for the Disney Food Blog Newsletter and don’t miss a thing! Click HERE to subscribe! And in the meantime, check out all of the restaurants in Animal Kingdom… RANKED! It’s from our DFB YouTube Channel. Would you like to relax at a lounge in Dinoland? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Cretaceous Cooler at Restaurantosaurus in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Review: Strawberry Cheesecake at Restaurantosaurus Review: Animal Kingdom’s Restaurantosaurus View the full article

Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff — the delightful, whimsical merchandise and confectionery location—is now open along Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure park! Upon entering, you’ll notice Bing Bong, the fluffy pink, imaginary friend from the Disney•Pixar film “Inside Out,” bursting out of the marquee, welcoming you to his treasure trove of sweets! Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff offers guests a scrumptious selection candies, saltwater taffy, rainbow cotton candy, caramel apples, as well as fun Pixar souvenirs, apparel and accessories! Jangles the Clown serves up Memory Refreshers—frozen drinks available in all colors and flavors. There’s also Rainbow Unicorn, who oversees a colorful corner of the shop. The newly reimagined Pixar Pier features the beloved stories of Pixar through exciting attractions, imaginative neighborhoods and food locations all inspired by Pixar films. For more details on all the must-try sweets, check out our story here. What sweet treat are you most excited to try at Bing Bong’s Sweet Stuff? View the full article

It’s a new week! We’re back with another DFB Video today… and it’s FAQ TIME!! What are some of our favorite Disney World Character Meals? That’s right! We’re answering some of your Frequently Asked Questions about Disney World! We’re talking transportation, Character Meals, the Disney Dining Plan, and more!! So join us in our latest DFB YouTube Video, because we might be answering a question that you may have about Walt Disney World! 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: Are there any questions you have about visiting Disney World? Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB Video: 5 Super Fun Rainy Day Activities in Disney World! DFB Video: 11 Things I Miss When I’m Not in Disney World DFB Video: Things You’d NEVER Think You’d Need in Walt Disney World! View the full article