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Happy weekend! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re reviewing Early Morning Magic at Toy Story Land in Disney World! Early Morning Magic at Toy Story Land We recently attended the new Early Morning Magic at Toy Story Land in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Early Morning Magic is an extra-ticketed event that offers guests early morning access to popular lands and attractions in select Disney World parks before the park is open to the general public for the day. We’re reviewing every aspect from attraction access to the provided breakfast to help you decide if Early Morning Magic events are right for your family in our latest DFB YouTube video! 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 you interested in attending an Early Morning Magic event? Related posts: DFB Video: Things Most People Don’t Know About Walt Disney World DFB Video: How to Survive Disney World Weather (and Hurricane Season) DFB Video: Disney World Bathrooms! (Volume I) View the full article

Good morning from the reimagined World of Disney Store in Disney Springs! World of Disney Store The centerpiece store — and still the world’s largest — carries every type of Disney merchandise you can imagine, and it’s long been a popular stop for Disney World guests looking for the perfect souvenir to remember their Disney World vacations. World of Disney sign And — like the rest of Disney Springs — the World of Disney has been undergoing a transformation in keeping with the rest of the remade shopping, dining, and entertainment district for Walt Disney World. And the Grand Reopening is today! Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting Grand Reopening Ribbon Cutting Though sections of the store have been accessible during the refurbishment, now guests can step inside the fully functioning merchandise location. Looking into the World of Disney Store It brings together the story of Disney Springs as a waterfront Floridian town together with some of the whimsy and Disney magic that the store is known for. World of Disney Store World of Disney Store World of Disney Store World of Disney Store And with that story of the town, comes a story for the store! World of Disney Story As it goes, the space once served as a marketplace. After it was abandoned, animators took over the spot and used it as a place to create. Animators backstory details Animators backstory details Animators backstory details — including Mickey’s signature colors! Then, once an actual animation studio opened up, the space was once again abandoned until retailers arrived. And the retailers brought new life back into what was once a thriving community. Animators backstory details The retailers started “peeling back the layers” of the space, revealing elements of the animator’s former creative uses. Animators backstory details Animators backstory details That’s why much of the new look is meant to be reminiscent of an animator’s studio, with nods to character animations by Disney Legends, including Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men.” These tributes come by way of photographs, character sketches, craftsman desks, and more. Animators backstory details Animators backstory details Most specifically, you’ll find many of these details throughout one of the large cashier checkout areas. Animators backstory details at cashier area World of Disney Reusable Bags Speaking of cashier areas, you’ll find plenty of World of Disney Reusable Bags available for purchase. Reusable World of Disney Bags Reusable World of Disney Bags Though they are not currently required to use (as plastic bags are still available), they are in keeping with the Disney company’s goal of significantly reducing single-use plastics across Disney destinations worldwide. Reusable World of Disney Bags World of Disney Setup The general flow of the store is much more open now, with the goal of making the space easier to navigate with brighter “architectural clues” helping guests know which way to go. World of Disney Store World of Disney Store Additionally, the more open concept helps the store to be more stroller and wheelchair friendly. World of Disney Store In the center area of the store, a large skylight provides lots of natural light to further brighten the space. Skylight Mickey Mouse Club Collection Just last week, we took a tour of some of the sections that were newly operating prior to today’s Grand Reopening, including LOTS of new merchandise for the 2018 holiday season, the NEW Mickey Mouse Club merchandise line, and more. Mickey Mouse Club The Mickey Mouse Club Collection, in addition to celebrating Mickey’s 90th Birthday, also helps to launch the store with a tie to Disney’s heritage, making vintage style relevant today. (You can see lots more of these new items here!) Mickey Mouse Club Collection backpack Mickey Mouse Club Collection plush dolls Mickey Mouse Club Collection Disney Princesses But one area that was previously still closed off was the Princess section of the store. Princess section Princess section This stunning section displays larger-than-life sketches of the Disney Princesses. Princess section And if you keep looking up, you’ll see that the chandeliers hanging above are made from wands and tiaras! Chandeliers Chandeliers Keep your eye on the changing projections all around the store, as well. Princess section These “magical moments” help to further set the scene and bring touches of color and enchantment to the store. More Merchandise! Plenty of familiar favorites like Mickey and Minnie Mouse Ears, character plush, Disney mugs, and more are — as always — found throughout. Character Plush Area Character Plush Area Millennial Pink Ears and backpacks And among all the favorites, we’re still spotting new merchandise! Loungefly Bags it’s a small world Loungefly Bag Millennial Pink Loungefly Bag For instance, the new Redd Pirates of the Caribbean Loungefly Bag is now available. Redd Loungefly Bag Redd Loungefly Bag Graphic tees will be changing frequently and featuring characters not often seen on merchandise. Genie Vacation Mode Graphic Tee Slinky Dog Graphic Tee Favorite characters are represented on gear, games, and accessories throughout the store! Marvel Area Star Wars Area Minnie Mouse Area More Minnie Mouse Wreck It Ralph Wreck It Ralph Mrs. Potts Dress And, of course, favorite COLORS are well represented, too! Millennial Pink Millennial Pink Rose Gold So, what’s your pick? What are you hoping to find on your next trip to the World of Disney? And, most of all… World of Disney What do you think of the newly reimagined World of Disney store?! 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! You’ll find World of Disney in the Marketplace of Disney Springs! Take a food tour of the entire area in our DFB YouTube Video! Will you be visiting the World of Disney on your next trip to Disney World? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: FIRST LOOK: New Mickey Mouse Club Collection Arrives at World of Disney in Disney Springs SNEAK PEEK: The Newly Reimagined World of Disney Store at Disney Springs Spotted: More Fun Merchandise at Disney Springs Marketplace Co-op View the full article

The Nightmare Before Christmas‘ 25th Anniversary will be celebrated in style at the The Edison’s Halloween Soirée in Disney Springs on October 31. The event includes spooky spirits, goblins and ghosts — and guests are encouraged to dress in Nightmare Before Christmas themed costumes for a costume contest. Now we know who the judge is, and we couldn’t be more excited! It was just announced Actress and Her Universe Founder Ashley Eckstein will judge the Halloween Costume Contest! That’a right! Ashley Eckstein! You know her as the voice of Ahsoka Tano on Star Wars: The Clone Wars, Star Wars Rebels, and Star Wars Forces of Destiny. In addition, she founded Her Universe, a fangirl fashion company and lifestyle brand, whose mission is to create stylish, fashion-forward merchandise for female sci-fi fans! Start getting your Nightmare Before Christmas themed costumes together because winners will receive a Nightmare Before Christmas themed Gift Card for Hot Topic and a gift card to any Patina Restaurant Group restaurant in Disney Springs – Grand Prize $500, Second Place $300, Third Place $100! Tickets are still available for this event. Be sure to get your tickets here! Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! So, is it Jack, Sally, the Mayor, or Oogie Boogie? Who are you dressing as for this event? Let us know in the comments below! Related posts: Jazz Up Your Labor Day Weekend with A Gatsby Evening at The Edison What’s New in Disney World’s Disney Springs: December 4, 2017 Disney FOOD CHALLENGE! Can You Eat All 19 Of Our Favorite Mickey-Shaped Foods?!? View the full article

This weekend edition of Disney Doodles takes a look at what Jafar from “Aladdin” might do if he had the chance to visit Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park. According to artist Ashley Taylor, the idea for this Disney Doodle came from the idea that this Disney villain is always trying to interrupt the fun. “Jafar is always making waves!” Ashley said. “It’s easy to imagine him trying to disrupt Typhoon Lagoon’s tranquil atmosphere.” View the full article

Ahoy! The latest edition of the Nautilus is now available at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort, according to the official Disney @WDWToday Twitter account. The Nautilus ©Disney The Nautilus — made to serve two — comes to you filled with Barbancourt Pango Rhum, Appleton Estate Reserve Rum, Combier Crème de Pêche de Vigne Liqueur, Tropical Juices, and Falernum. As with the other drinks served in souvenir glasses, ordering one will set off a chain of special effects around the small room that is the Grog Grotto. (You can see the previous edition of the Nautilus here.) @WDWToday Twitter See why Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is on our list of Disney World’s best bars and lounges in our DFB YouTube Video! Will you be ordering up a souvenir Nautilus? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News: 2nd Edition of The Nautilus Now Available at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort NEWS! Limited Edition Hatbox Ghost Tiki Mug Spotted at Disney World’s Trader Sam’s, Plus a New Drink! #OnTheList: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort View the full article

The 2018 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Classic is ON, and there’s no place we’d rather be! 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic The Classic is a two-night event starting this evening! Now in its 9th year, the Classic has become a popular event due to delicious small plate dishes and drinks on the Causeway (including three themed food areas) and fun foodie seminars during the weekend. 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Ticket holders for the event are enjoying the activities on Friday, October 26, and/or Saturday, October 27, 2018, from 5:30PM to 9PM. As in the past, there are several ticket options, which you can find on the event website. The Causeway Ticket provides unlimited access to food and drinks along the Causeway between the two resorts. 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic If you are a ticket holder for Saturday evening, we are here tonight to show you what you have to look forward to! Or, if the Classic is a new event to you, you can learn a little more about it in case you’d like to work it in with your Epcot Food and Wine Festival plans for next year! Check out the full menus for the 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic here! Before we begin, there is something to keep in mind… most menu options will change from Friday to Saturday. But this will still give you a great idea about the type of eats and drinks you have to look forward to! The Causeway Now, where should we start? Causeway Directional Sign Chinatown, Carnival Corner, and The Pig & Poke How about the three themed food areas? Chinatown is always a can’t-miss! Chinatown Why, you ask? Chinatown Because of Yu Chen’s Crispy Duck on a steamed bun with cucumber and hoisin! Crispy Duck It’s an absolute favorite, and we’d never miss it. The Shanghai Dumplings (pan-roasted pork dumplings with a spicy sauce) are here, too! Shanghai Dumpling Shanghai Dumpling But though we started with a favorite, let’s turn our eyes — and taste buds! – towards this year’s NEW themed area, The Pig & Poke, delivering the tastes of Hawai’i and Polynesia! This way to The Pig & Poke! The Pig & Poke area Roasted Pig on Display at The Pig & Poke The rich and flavorful Traditional Earth Baked Kalua Pork is served alongside steamed white rice with barrel-aged tamari and Napa cabbage. Kalua Pork It’s seriously delicious, and it will be interesting to see if The Pig & Poke (and, in particular, this dish) return next year. And next up? The Poke! Tuna Poke, that is! Tuna Poke Hawaiian yellowfin tuna, Koho sushi rice, avocado relish, and just a hint of crispy fried wontons for a texture variation come together to form a delightfully fresh dish. And because it’s still warm here in Florida, you’ll also find Hawaiian Shave Ice which can really hit the spot! Shave Ice It’s your choice of tropical flavors. Shave Ice Flavors And returning this year is Carnival Corner, which serves up all its flavors with a side of FUN! Carnival Corner Carnival Corner Carnival Corner Games We had already fallen head over heels in love with the Funfetti Fried Oreo Cookie at the Classic’s preview event, and couldn’t wait to get to Carnival Corner to dig in again! Fried Oreo Stand It’s all in the name: Oreo. Dipped in Funfetti batter. And it’s all FRIED. Funfetti Fried Oreo Oh, and did I mention there’s also chocolate ganache? Funfetti Fried Oreo FOR REAL. Also at Carnival Corner is Frito Pie, served up… well, just like it sounds! Frito Pie Your Fritos bag is filled with house-made chili, corn chips, sour cream, pico de gallo, and cheddar cheese. Frito Pie You can even choose some hot sauce to go with it before you dig in! Frito Pie Little Smokies Sausages are served here, too, with sweet brown sugar barbeque sauce to resemble that classic party appetizer. But it’s given a little carnival twist with crushed Cheez-Its. Little Smokies Sausage But the other absolute favorite here, along with those Funfetti Oreos, is the Mac Attack! Mac Attack The beef barbacoa and poblano pepper bring the flavor “attack” to this awesome dish! Mac Attack More Causeway Eats The Main Causeway, of course, is lined with menu items presented by the Swan and Dolphin restaurants and chefs. And there was a complete standout from Todd English. Todd English’s station Just LOOK at this gorgeous Brown Butter Poached Maine Lobster Roll! Brown Butter Poached Maine Lobster Roll Served on a toasted brioche bun with lemon aioli and frisee, the flavor from the generous chunks of decadent lobster still shine through even with the tasty accompaniments. Brown Butter Poached Maine Lobster Roll Todd English’s bluezoo, of course, also has a booth, where the dish of the evening is Dynamite Rock Shrimp. bluezoo Station The Rock Shrimp is plated with late season Zellwood corn, wasabi foam, Matsutake & Japanese Eggplant and crispy lotus root. Dynamite Rock Shrimp Fresh served up a plate well in keeping with its name! Fresh The Southwest Steak Salad is made with local lettuces, black beans, roasted corn, and smoked-jalapeno for some kick! Southwest Steak Salad We couldn’t resist a stop at Garden Grove for a Maryland Crab Cake Slider. Garden Grove Maryland Crab Cake Slider Old Bay seasoning — as always — delivers the perfect blend of spices to the Maryland Blue Crab, served on a toasted brioche bun. Picabu served up the fun Shake & Bake Style Southern Fried Chicken with black-eyed pea puree, white cheddar fondue (hooray!), and a bacon-infused roast garlic gravy. Picabu Shake & Bake Style Southern Fried Chicken Desserts, it must be said, are always memorable at the Classic. Desserts Executive Pastry Chef Laurent Branlard presents a trio of Mini Desserts this year. For Friday, they include the All Chocolate Choux, the Tropical Fruit Charlotte, and the Blackberry Bubble Cup. Trio of Mini Desserts They’re as tasty as they are lovely to look at, with attention to detail in presentation and flavor. Tropical Fruit Charlotte The Fountain presents the savory Hickory Smoked Chopped Burnt Brisket Ends on a Toasted Hoagie Roll. The Fountain Hickory Smoked Chopped Burnt Brisket Ends And Il Mulino delivered an Egg Yolk Anolini Alla Parmigana with foraged mushrooms, Modena ham, and Pork Brodo. Il Mulino Egg Yolk Anolini Alla Parmigiana Shula’s totally brings it! Shula’s Oven-Roasted Beef Rib Eye Oven-roasted Beef Rib Eye is served with silky mashed potatoes and Bordelaise. (And this one should be around on Saturday evening, too!) Oven-Roasted Beef Rib Eye At Cib’s Smokehouse, a unique blend of flavors is presented for savory with hints of sweet with the Roasted & Smoked Iberico Pork with a fennel puree, honey-caramelized apple, and buttered turnip. Cib’s Smokehouse Roasted and Smoked Iberico Pork Also on the menu? Some classic Carolina Pulled Pork Sliders, with a fun twist of candied bacon and house pickles. Carolina Pulled Pork Slider Cabana plated up Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs “On a Stick.” Cabana The unique dish is served on Vermicelli Noodles with some heat from pickled vegetables and Sriracha Espuma. Vietnamese Lemongrass Meatballs The Kimonos Roll was served at Kimonos, of course! Kimonos The Kimonos Roll is made of Ashi Tuna, yellowtail, and sustainable salmon and served with wasabi mayo. Kimonos Roll And for the perfect October treat, we stopped by Phins. Phins The Bavarian Style Warm Pretzel is served with a lager-beer cheese for dipping! Bavarian Style Warm Pretzel A wide variety of German mustards and condiments is available, too. German Mustard Beer Garden and Bubble Lounge Okay, we’ve got two more stops! Because what’s an evening at the Classic without a stop at the Beer Garden? Beer Garden Beer Garden Aside from Beer, you’ll also find Jäger Schnitzel (lightly breaded pork with hunters sauce and späetzle). Jager Schnitzel And a Berliner Doner Kabab with Split Roasted Strauss Farm Veal, garlic & parsley yogurt sauce, and red cabbage and onions on buttered warm flatbread. Berliner Doner Kabab And the Bubble Lounge returns with small bites and bubbly sips! Bubble Lounge Deviled Eggs Smoked Salmon Toast Smoked Trout Salad Candied Detroit Beet, Burrata, and Almond “Parfait” And with that, we cap off the night by saying “Cheers”! Bubble Lounge Educational Seminars Don’t forget that the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic offers educational seminars once again for 2018. Some of the seminars feature beverages, while others focus on food and wine pairing. It’s Better to “Wine” in Italian We had the chance to attend the Italian Wine Seminar, It’s Better to “Wine” in Italian. It’s Better to “Wine” in Italian It’s Better to “Wine” in Italian We’ll have a full review of this seminar for you here soon! Click here for Full Seminar Details! Seminars took place today, with even more on the way on Saturday during the Food and Wine Classic. Beverage Seminars are $50 per person while Pairing Seminars are $85 per person. (The Grand Tasting is sold out for this year.) Merchandise If you’d like to remember your evening (or evenings!) at the Classic, there many souvenirs to take home to do exactly that! Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Merchandise Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Merchandise Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Merchandise Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Merchandise Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Merchandise Overall I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic is a true highlight of the year, and is a great enhancement to your autumn trip to Walt Disney World — especially for all our fellow foodies. And even if you’re missing it this year, you know how I feel: it’s never too early to start planning your Epcot Food and Wine Festival trip for next year, and it’s highly recommended that you include the Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic within your plans! Are you attending the 2018 Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic? Please let us know with a comment! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. Today, we were invited by the Swan and Dolphin to attend this year’s Food and Wine Classic. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event 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. (But, just between you and me, the Food and Wine Classic at the Swan and Dolphin is freaking amazing and you need to go. That’s my personal opinion.) You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ Related posts: Entertainment Lineup and Seminars for the 2018 Disney World Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Review: Aioli Madness at Cabana Bar and Beach Club at The Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin 2018 WDW Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Dates Announced! View the full article

No trip to Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square is quite complete without a stop at the land’s quick service restaurant, Columbia Harbour House, or a meal at Liberty Tree Tavern, Liberty Square’s table service option. Liberty Tree Tavern And Liberty Tree Tavern just so happens to be our stop for lunch today. We can never resist some of the old favorites here… but there’s also a Secret Menu item that we have to let you know about! Atmosphere Liberty Tree Tavern brings guests into the American Revolutionary era, well in keeping with Liberty Square. Liberty Tree Tavern The tavern’s seating is divided into six rooms, each dedicated to a Revolutionary-era hero: George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Paul Revere, Benjamin Franklin, Betsy Ross, and John Paul Jones. On our most recent visit, we were seated in the Benjamin Franklin room. And if you take the time to look around, you will find nods to Franklin throughout, including a First Edition Poor Richard’s Almanack, written by Franklin himself. Poor Richard’s Almanack We’re keeping our tour brief today to focus on the best part of the Tavern: the FOOD. (For a full tour, check out this post!) But our server did point out some cool details that we’d love to share with you here before tucking in. Musical instruments Tri-corner hat Sundial There’s no shortage of those famous Disney details at Liberty Tree Tavern. And, thankfully, there’s no shortage of good food, either… Eats Our recent visit was for lunch at Liberty Tree Tavern, which has a different serving style from dinner. Dinner features the All-You-Care-to-Enjoy Bill of Fare featuring the Patriot’s Platter — basically a Thanksgiving feast any time of year — served family-style for all guests at the table. Lunch also offers Patriot’s Platter these days, but retains its long-standing a la carte menu, as well. Liberty Tree Tavern menu For appetizers, we were immediately drawn to the Crab, Artichoke, and Spinach Dip for Two ($15), which is served in a skillet with three huge servings of French bread. Crab, Artichoke and Spinach Dip for Two The dip itself was a terrific blend of cheesy, savory goodness. Sometimes, I worry about seafood dishes. Far too often, I get a dish of something almost too fishy and it takes away from the meal. However, this is a home run. Crab, Artichoke, and Spinach Dip for Two The artichoke and spinach nicely complemented the crab, and the broiled cheese on top created a gooey, mouth-watering appetizer. The bread was slightly toasted, yet still soft — a better option than the usual crackers served with a dip. I found myself eating the dip with a spoon towards the end because I ran out of bread. So, yes, I would order it again. (And again.) Now, we’ve got two entrees to share and while one is a classic favorite, the other is something you’ve likely never heard of: a Secret Menu item! I’ll keep this brief because I know what you are waiting for, but I always feel like Our Tavern Keeper’s Favorite deserves its own shout-out, too! This is the Tavern’s traditional pot roast served with mashed potatoes and green beans. Secret Menu Item and Our Tavern Keeper’s Favorite Okay, so the green beans were nothing to write home about (even though we received about a million of them). But the mashed potatoes were perfect: smooth, buttery, and delicious. And, as always, the pot roast itself is moist, cutting like butter on a hot knife. It’s seriously like a home-cooked meal right in the middle of Magic Kingdom. I applaud you, Liberty Tree. Maybe you can adopt me? Our Tavern Keeper’s Favorite Now, the Secret Menu item you’ve been waiting for: The Bell Burger. The Bell Burger The Bell Burger takes the house Angus Chuck Cheeseburger — which is already topped with bacon and cheddar along with tomato and lettuce — and adds an EGG and LOBSTER!! Oh, and a garlic marmalade, for good measure. First, this burger is HUGE. I don’t think any picture could allow you to comprehend just how massive this burger is. The bun is slightly sweet, as if King’s Hawaiian rolls and a burger bun had a baby and called it… well, whatever that bun is. The Bell Burger The bacon and the Angus Chuck burger both had a strong peppery flavor that without that sweet bun may have been overpowering. Along with the lobster and garlic marmalade, it made for a fantastic combination. Then there’s the egg, which is a fairly typical topping for a burger. But here it added a whole new level of richness to an already hearty burger. The Bell Burger The one downside to this burger is how messy it gets, but I think you might happily deal with your newest spirit jersey getting a stain or two on it just to have this burger. The Bell Burger A couple things to note: When you ask your server about The Bell Burger, they have to double-check with the chef to make sure all the ingredients are still available. We went towards the end of the lunch day and luckily it was still available, but other days might be different. So if you want to try it, make your Advance Dining Reservation for an earlier time during lunch. Also, the price for this enormous sandwich is $18.99. A sizable burger that has LOBSTER on it with a side of fries at Walt Disney World for $18.99? Not too bad, really. Nosh or Not? You should visit Liberty Tree Tavern for lunch if: You prefer a la carte menus where everyone in the group can make their own choices for their preferred “Bill of Fare.” You’re a bit of a history buff. You’ve just got to try The Bell Burger! You should pass on Liberty Tavern for lunch if: You’d prefer the full family-style meal served at dinner. You’re more into the idea of exploring some of the newer service settings in the park, like the Jungle Cruise Skipper Canteen. You no longer feel restricted to just lunch here ever since they started serving up Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake for dinner, too! Overall Liberty Tree Tavern is, quite simply, a classic Magic Kingdom dining experience. Though it may not spring to your mind as such in the same way a meal in Cinderella’s Castle might, the Tavern serves truly delicious, classic comfort food in a highly detailed setting. Even if it isn’t a headliner these days like, say, Be Our Guest Restaurant, we still consider Liberty Tree Tavern a must-try, at least once, for lunch or dinner. It just rarely disappoints. You’ll find Liberty Tree Tavern in Magic Kingdom’s Liberty Square. Take a food tour of ALL the eats in the area in our DFB YouTube Video! Is Liberty Tree Tavern must-do dining for you? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: News: Liberty Tree Tavern Menu Updates (And Ooey Gooey Toffee Cake for DINNER!) Review: Dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Review: Dinner at Liberty Tree Tavern in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

A few familiar faces joined us this morning for the grand reopening of the World of Disney store in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort. Former Mouseketeers Sharon Baird, Bobby Burgess, Tommy Cole, Cubby O’Brien and Sherry van Meter were on hand to celebrate. The original “Mickey Mouse Club” television series debuted in 1955, just a few months after Walt Disney’s biggest project to date, Disneyland park, opened to the public. The hour-long show featured an entertaining cast of kids, also known as Mouseketeers! As we revealed last week, a new “Mickey Mouse Club”-inspired collection is now available at the World of Disney stores at Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts. Mickey Mouse is featured in this classic-yet-modern collection of fashionable apparel and Mouse-themed accessories. “It’s an honor to be a part of this wonderful opening,” said Sherry van Meter (née Alberoni). “It’s exciting, it’s so nice to see so many fans; people that the Mickey Mouse Club meant so much to. I think [the ‘Mickey Mouse Club’ collection] is terrific and beautiful. Everything is in such good taste and such good quality. I love it!” This collection, along with an unmatched selection of other merchandise, await guests visiting World of Disney. Check out the flagship stores in Downtown Disney at the Disneyland Resort and Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort! View the full article

Our Insta-friend @thedukeofdonuts is on a (pastry) roll when it comes to discovering new spooky sweets at Disneyland! Last week, he introduced us to the adorable mummy donut. And today, it looks like an all-new Haunted Mansion donut has come out to socialize. So, how does it taste and where can you get your own? Haunted Mansion Donut from Disneyland Coffee Cart The Haunted Mansion design features green glaze, cookie crumbles, purple frosting, and a white chocolate gravestone atop a fluffy yeast donut. Haunted Mansion Donut from Disneyland Coffee Cart According to Ilya, the Haunted Mansion donut is good, but “very, very, very sweet.” There’s no filling inside the donut, but the purple stuff in the center is all frosting. Still, he recommends trying it, especially if you’re a Haunted Mansion fan. (But the Mummy donut is better.) Need to summon your own Haunted Mansion donut before the Halloween desserts disappear on October 31? Find it at the coffee cart near Sleeping Beauty Castle. It’s common for specialty donuts to sell out quickly, so plan to be in line around 8:00 AM if you’ve gotta have one of these terrifying treats. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! Have you seen something new or fun on your Disney adventures? Be sure to tag us @DisneyFoodBlog on instagram! Any volunteers? Let us know in the comments if you’ll be trying the Haunted Mansion donut. Related posts: New! Halloween Time Treats at Disneyland’s Grand Californian Hotel! Donuts Have Arrived in Disneyland! Halloween Time Churro Bites Cereal Sundae at Disneyland’s Hungry Bear Restaurant! View the full article

Disney Springs’ World of Disney store, the flagship retail stop of Walt Disney World, officially reopened Saturday morning with a wide-open floor plan, new lines of merchandise and nods to technology and the company’s artistic past. The remodeling, completed in phases over several months, is another... View the full article

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You’re likely already familiar with using the My Disney Experience website or app to book your dining reservations throughout Walt Disney World parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. But did you know that some of these restaurants also offer reservations through OpenTable.com? We’ve got all the details! Steak Frites at Wine Bar George Want to try booking a dining reservation through OpenTable.com? We’ve put together a list of all participating restaurants on property. While you won’t find any in-park dining on the list, there are plenty of Resort and Disney Springs restaurants available via the site. What you need to know: My Disney Experience requires a credit card guarantee when booking an Advance Dining Reservation. If you don’t cancel by 11:59 PM the day before and don’t show up for your reservation, your credit card is charged a no-show fee of $10 per person. But here’s a tip: If you book through OpenTable.com, you aren’t charged a no-show fee. So, this could potentially save you some money if you anticipate that you might not be able to make it (for instance, if you’re concerned about your child’s temperament within a busy schedule). But if you don’t show for three or more reservations, your email address will be blocked from OpenTable.com and you won’t be able to create further dining reservations using that address. Frontera Cocina in Disney Springs Below you’ll find the list of Walt Disney World restaurants which currently accept reservations via OpenTable.com. See if your favorite is on the list! Disney Deluxe Resorts Disney’s Polynesian Resort Kona Cafe Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort Grand Floridian Cafe Lobster Thermidor Burger at Grand Floridian Cafe Disney’s Contemporary Resort The Wave Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Jiko Jiko Disney Moderate Resorts Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Rix Sports Bar and Grill Maya Grill Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Boatwright’s Boatwright’s Dining Hall Disney Vacation Club Resorts Old Key West Resort Olivia’s Cafe Olivia’s Cafe Disney’s Boardwalk Restaurants Big River Grille Flying Fish Wagyu Filet Mignon at Flying Fish Disney Springs Restaurants The Boathouse Bongos Cuban Cafe Enzo’s Hideaway The Edison Enzo’s Hideaway and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante Frontera Cocina House of Blues Restaurant and Bar Maria and Enzo’s Morimoto Asia Seared Wagyu at Morimoto Asia Planet Hollywood Paddlefish Paradiso 37 Raglan Road Irish Pub Raglan Road STK Terralina Crafted Italian Wine Bar George Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Todd English’s bluezoo Shula’s Garden Grove Il Mulino New York Trattoria bluezoo Menu Cover Non-Disney Resorts Four Seasons Orlando Plancha Ravello Capa Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy and His Pals Open kitchen at Ravello Hilton Buena Vista Palace Letterpress Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek La Luce Waldorf Astoria Orlando Bull & Bear Steakhouse Oscar’s Using the Disney Dining Plan or Tables in Wonderland? Be sure to check with each restaurant to verify whether they’re accepted. We’ve linked to more information for each outlet above. White Wine and Artisanal Cheese Board at Wine Bar George Now we want to know… have you booked a Disney World dining reservation using OpenTable.com? If so, how was your experience? Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is now available for Pre-Order! With more than 750 pages, the 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With mini-reviews of every single restaurant, bar, lounge, kiosk and more; an entire chapter on the best snacks in Disney World; full Disney Dining Plan analysis (and how to get FREE dining); and a full chapter on discounts and deals; you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to pre-order your copy of the 2019 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2019 to save 25% today! But there’s MORE! Just like all DFB pre-order deals — when you pre-order your DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2019 Edition today for 25% off the cover price, you’ll also get our fully updated 2018 Edition for FREE immediately, so you can start planning TODAY! Use code WDW2019 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price, AND get the 2018 edition for free! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. What do you think? Will you try out booking through OpenTable.com, or do you plan to stick with My Disney Experience? Related posts: WDW Moms Panel: Good Eats When Going Solo at Disney WDW Moms Panelists Consider: What Are Some Underrated Disney World Restaurants? No Park Tickets? No Reservation? No Problem! View the full article

Our Disney Parks Moms Panelist and Disney Vacation Club Member Tania is back to talk about how Disney Vacation Club properties provide many of the comforts of “home” while being close to the Theme Park magic. Tania especially loves the full kitchens in most Disney Vacation Club villa accommodations, allowing time for her multi- generational family to gather and cook and play games after a full day at the parks. She cherishes the family time and memories made in the midst of the magic. For more information about Disney Vacation Club or planning your next Disney vacation, visit DisneyParksMomsPanel.com for a personalized answer from one of our knowledgeable panelists. View the full article

Sprinkled with pixie dust, magical moments and eye-catching collections, the World of Disney store is officially open in the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort! Its sister store at Disney Springs in Walt Disney World celebrates its grand reopening tomorrow, Oct. 27. Last week, Steven Miller provided a fantastic first glimpse of the reimagined stores. Now, let’s take a closer look! We had the chance to interview the cast members, who spent more than a year in design and development, to create this elevated shopping experience. Learn more about the wonderful World of Disney from these creative minds: The reimagined World of Disney makes shopping easier and more fun. The transformation begins with the store’s exterior, which features new marquees and magical window displays. Inside, guests discover an open atmosphere with uniquely themed areas. Inspiration comes from Walt Disney Animation Studios and legendary animators—with sketches, artwork and posters jumping to life. Let’s not forget the shopping, which includes all the “must-have” Disney merchandise collections. The grand redesign of World of Disney is just one of the many exciting new experiences part of the promenade-wide transformation of the Downtown Disney District. Other openings include Salt & Straw scoop shop, the newly-renovated upper level of Naples Ristorante e Bar and the upcoming debuts of Ballast Point brewery and Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes. View the full article

The very first Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party of the season kicks off on November 8th! This extra-ticket event held on select nights in Magic Kingdom offers unique entertainment such as the Holiday Wishes Fireworks, Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade, and much more. Holiday Decorations on Main Street, USA! And now, a new offering is being made available for Party guests to enjoy reserved viewing for Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade paired with food and drinks: Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party! Once Upon a Christmastime Parade Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party will work differently from other dessert party offerings. Starting at 9:30 PM, guests can “pop in and out” at their leisure to eat an array of savory hors d’oeuvres such as artisanal meats and cheeses, Tony’s famous meatballs, mini hand-tossed pizzas, boursin-stuffed artichoke and more. Sweet snacks will include pumpkin tartlets, Yule Logs, cannoli, Christmas cookies, and red velvet cupcakes. Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party ©Disney Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party ©Disney A selection of complimentary beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will also be available. Then, at 11:00 PM, guests will have access to a reserved viewing area for Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. Toy Soldiers During the Once Upon a Christmastime Parade And the party will continue on until 12:30 AM, which is beyond the Party’s midnight closing time. Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is required to attend Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party, and tickets will be $99 per guest, plus tax. Booking will open to the general public starting October 30, when guests will be able to book online at the Disney World website or by calling 407-827-7348. Annual Passholders and DVC Members will have a 1-day exclusive early booking window on October 29 by calling 407-827-7348. 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 attending Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party this year? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: 2018 Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party AND Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets ON SALE What’s New Around Walt Disney World — June 14, 2016 DFB’s Top 10 Disney Food News Stories of 2016 View the full article

Earlier this fall, the Disney Parks Blog team hosted a group of our readers at Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – and if there’s one thing our team loves to do, it’s to dress up in costume. This year, we chose a pirate theme for our group costume. Our looks were inspired by the new pirates who interact with guests sailing through Pirates of the Caribbean exclusively during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Check out the video above for a look inside our adventurous transformations. View the full article

The 2018 Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend presented by MISFIT makes its delicious return to the Walt Disney World Resort November 1-4, 2018. Full of a delectable slate of exciting events, top off your weekend celebration with commemorative merchandise. Get a ‘taste’ of what offerings will be making their way to the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo: This year’s event merchandise collection will whisk you away with romantic, Tuscan themes featuring artwork celebrating some of our favorite culinary characters. Runners participating in the weekend’s events will find a variety of logo performance apparel and “I Did It!” products including shirts in multiple styles and jackets. Other products include an event weekend hat and assorted headbands as well as limited release Disney pins. Guests will also find collectible items such as various TERVIS glassware, car magnets and more. Don’t miss the special ear hat designed for the runDisney Kids Races, perfect for your littlest runner. Look for these commemorative items and more during the runDisney Health & Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. All Guests are invited to attend during the following dates and times: Thursday, November 1, 2018: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Friday, November 2, 2018: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. Saturday, November 3, 2018: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Learn more about other runDisney events here. Follow us on social: Twitter: @runDisney Instagram: @runDisney Facebook: @runDisney
 YouTube: @runDisney View the full article

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a festive and joyous experience for guests of all ages, and now I’m going to share with you a way to make it even more magical –Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party! At this new and special experience beginning at 9:30 p.m., you can pop in and out at your leisure and indulge in savory hors d’oeuvres including a selection of artisanal meats and cheeses as well as Tony’s famous meatballs, mini hand-tossed pizzas, boursin-stuffed artichoke and more! And if you’re wanting to satisfy that sweet tooth, then you can snack on pumpkin tartlets, Yule Logs, cannoli, Christmas cookies, and red velvet cupcakes. To go along with this festive array of dishes, raise a glass to the spirit of the season with a selection of complementary beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages. While you eat, enjoy a holiday atmosphere and views of Town Square and Main Street, U.S.A The party doesn’t stop there! At 11:00 p.m., you’ll have access to a special reserved viewing area for the truly enchanting Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade as it makes its way down Main Street, U.S.A. The festive procession includes dancing gingerbread men, marching toy soldiers and beloved Disney characters in their holiday finery. And the party continues until 12:30 a.m., ever longer than Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party! Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party is available for $99 per person (plus tax) every Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party event night at Magic Kingdom Park. Admission to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is required to attend. Plus, we have great news for our Annual Passholders and DVC Members – you will be able to enjoy a 1-day exclusive early booking window on October 29 by calling 407-827-7348. Reservations will be available to everyone beginning October 30 online or by calling 407-827-7348. Space is limited and will fill up fast, so book your reservation soon! View the full article

It’s National Chocolate Day, and we’re celebrating with a spotlight on The Ganachery at Disney Springs! This popular chocolate shop is the perfect spot to indulge in sophisticated chocolates and ganache and is home to the one and only Walt Disney World Resort Chef Chocolatier Amanda Lauder. Thanks to Amanda and her talented team of chocolate-loving Cast Members, The Ganachery is always filled with goodies such as house-made chocolate bars, ganache squares, lollipops, and more! Packaged beautifully and filled with unique flavors and rich artisan chocolate, these treats serve as the perfect gift or even a fun snack to enjoy while you’re out wandering through the many shops and restaurants located throughout the area. We recently met up with Amanda to give us an inside look at The Ganachery and the hard work that goes into creating that chocolatey magic we’ve come to love! Lauder has been running The Ganachery since it opened in 2015, and has a passion for chocolate that is shared with everyone she meets. She and her team have perfected the art of chocolate and are always looking to make these tasty treats even more magical by drawing inspiration from beloved Disney characters, stories, and Disney Parks. The chocolate shop serves a variety of house-made flavored ganache squares that range from classic milk and dark chocolates to unique flavors such as the orange chocolate, pistachio chocolate, and Caramel Fleur de Sel Chocolate made with rich, creamy caramel and sea salt. You can also find house-made marshmallows, ganache lollipops, chocolate bars, and crispy chocolate pearls. In addition, there are even fun seasonal creations like chocolate piñatas filled with crispy pearls and marshmallows or seasonal flavors of ganache squares such as the Pumpkin Spice Latte and Cranberry Orange flavors currently available through November 8. Other limited-time fall treats this year include Minnie Witch and Jack Skellington Piñatas as well as one of my favorite offerings – Chocolate Skulls! For more info on this yummy little chocolate shop, check out the Walt Disney World Resort website and be sure to stop on by and taste for yourself! View the full article