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It’s time to gather the family for an epic week as “Wheel of Fortune” once again brings the magic of Disney Parks to viewers Monday, April 30- Friday, May 4 – this time featuring Disney fans! Pat and Vanna will embark on a journey throughout Walt Disney World Resort from the set at Epcot to Magic Kingdom Park, Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. How’s this for an open? Pat will double as a Jungle Cruise Skipper for a wild tour and later join Vanna for more fun throughout Magic Kingdom Park. You can get in on the fun too. The show will feature a selection of prizes for both contestants and viewers. Viewer giveaways will offer “Wheel of Fortune” fans the chance to win family trips to Walt Disney World Resort. Viewers will also learn more about Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, see the wonders of Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and much more. Be sure to check your local listings for time and channel information. You don’t want to miss this! View the full article

Pixar Fest, the biggest Pixar celebration ever to come to Disney Parks, is happening now through September 3 at the Disneyland Resort! During this limited-time celebration of friendship and beyond, beloved Pixar stories and characters come to life in exciting new ways throughout both parks, the Hotels of the Disneyland Resort and Downtown Disney District! Guests visiting Downtown Disney are in for a special surprise—a few favorite Pixar stories have been creatively integrated into the area’s horticulture. More than 15 characters from three Pixar films take shape in six different planters in fun new ways. Inspired by “The Incredibles,” “Toy Story” and “Finding Nemo,” these eye-catching creations feature an array of colors and geometric shapes to depict favorite Pixar friends. Can you spot the characters featured? Take a stroll through Downtown Disney during Pixar Fest to check them out for yourself! And while you’re at it, grab a Pixar-inspired treat from Marceline’s Confectionery. View the full article

Um…more secret menus at Disney World?! Yes, please!! We’ve spotted a D-Luxe Burger Mobile Order Secret Menu in Disney Springs for you!!! There are a couple of great reasons to give Mobile Order a try. This option — available via the My Disney Experience app — allows guests to pre-order and pre-pay for their food at participating Counter Service restaurants around Disney World. D-Luxe Burger Upon arrival to the restaurant, guests using Mobile Order can then bypass the ordering queue and go straight to a designated Pick Up Counter to get their food. Mobile Order Pickup Sign at D-Luxe Burger So clearly, it can save a TON of time, which would otherwise be spent in lines. Learn how to use Mobile Order on our Mobile Order Page! But another great reason is because you can sometimes find MORE FOOD than what you’ll see on the restaurant’s posted menu! D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs is a current location with a Mobile Order Secret Menu. You can find step-by-step instructions for the entire Mobile Order process here, but as always you start on the My Disney Experience app. My Disney Experience app screenshot Then you find D-Luxe Burger either by searching for it directly or going under the Order Food option on your home page, which leads you to the participating locations. D-Luxe Burger on Mobile Order screenshot Be sure to keep scrolling past the regular menu options, and you’ll find the Mobile Order Secret Menu items listed last. Five items make up the secret menu: they start with a Bacon and Blue Burger, Chicken Nuggets (these are the doughnut-breaded kind), and a BLT. D-Luxe Burger Mobile Order Secret Menu Donut Nuggets at D-Luxe Burger Onion Rings and Grilled Cheese make up the rest of the list. D-Luxe Burger Mobile Order Secret Menu So don’t forget to give Mobile Order a go on your next trip to Disney World… you may even catch a surprise or two along the way! Learn how to use Mobile Order on our Mobile Order Page! 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? 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 and Review: Donut Nuggets at D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs! First Look and Review! The New D-Luxe Burger in Disney Springs Town Center News: D-Luxe Burger to Open May 2016 in Disney Springs View the full article

Hey, friends! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re talking about how to make the most of the Disney Dining Plan! No Way Jose Sundae at Beaches and Cream If you’ve chosen to participate in the Disney Dining Plan during your Disney World vacation, you want to make sure you’re absolutely getting the most bang for your buck. So today’s video gives you tips and tricks on how to do exactly that so you are maximizing the value of your Dining Plan. Are you ready to learn how to master the Disney Dining Plan? Then settle in and watch 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: What is your best tip for maximizing the value of the Disney Dining Plan? 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: Best Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit Values! DFB Video: Top 5 Disney World Resorts for FOOD! DFB Video: Disney Desserts You MUST Experience! View the full article

Ever wanted to reach for the sky with Buzz Lightyear himself? Thanks to a cooperation with China Eastern Airlines, now you can do just that! The first Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land themed plane took flight from Shanghai over the weekend, featuring in-flight entertainment and colorful décor that illustrates the new attractions now open at Shanghai Disney Resort. Even the ceiling is decorated for this special flight experience! Travelers at Shanghai Hongqiao International Airport will spot favorite Toy Story characters in the departure terminal before take-off and receive a commemorative boarding pass as part of the new flight experience. The plane will fly between Beijing and Shanghai, with service to and from other Chinese cities in the future. And once you touch down in Shanghai, Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland is a can’t-miss! Take a look at last week’s post for a glimpse at the playful new attractions and experiences in the park’s seventh themed land. View the full article

With the 2018 Disney Dining Plan including alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic beverages, it’s more difficult than ever to figure out where to go to make the most of your DDP. So we’re back with our recommendations for where to use your Quick Service Disney Dining Plan credits at Walt Disney World. The objective here is to maximize your Disney Dining Plan dollars (even if you’ve scored Free Dining — you paid for a premium room and Park Hopper tickets, so let’s maximize those free credits, too!) while still eating GOOD food! We get the best DDP value by finding restaurants that hit the right balance of a high average entree price (and available specialty and alcoholic drinks) and a DFB recommendation for quality eats and extras. Here are our picks for the restaurants that give you the best overall bang for your Disney Dining Plan buck when it comes to quick service credit spots. Flame Tree Barbecue, Animal Kingdom This popular quick service spot on Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island serves up terrific smoked meats (and one of our favorite snack values: Pulled Pork French Fries!). The Ribs, Chicken, and Pulled Pork Platter is the best value on the menu at $18.99 — and because it’s massive (and heavy with all that meat), it’s shareable between a couple of eager diners. (And that means an extra credit to spend elsewhere!) Ribs, Chicken, and Pork Sampler Also on the menu are several alcoholic beverages, including Safari Amber, a red lager that rings in at $9.25; and Mandarin Orange Vodka Lemonade — a tasty cocktail for $8.75 — that increase the value even more! (Mandarin Orange Lemonade is the only non-alcoholic specialty beverage, and at $4.29, it doesn’t do a lot to increase the value — but combined with the Sampler Platter, Flame Tree remains a terrific value.) Mandarin Orange Vodka Lemonade Wolfgang Puck Express, Disney Springs Wolfgang Puck Express in Disney Springs Marketplace has the benefit of a diverse menu with high-quality eats for picky eaters (hello, pizza!) and those who crave comfort food (we love you, Rotisserie Chicken!). And while some items — like the pizzas — aren’t wildly expensive (the famous Barbecued Chicken is the most expensive at $14.50), some of the entrees are a terrific value. Wolfgang Puck Express Barbecued Chicken Pizza Oven-Roasted Salmon chimes in at $20.00, and the Half-Rotisserie Chicken we’ve always loved is $16.00. (We know a lot of readers like the $18.00 Bacon-Wrapped Meatloaf, so while it’s not one of our favorites, it’s still an awesome value!) There’s even an $18.00 salad (Baby Spinach and Quinoa with Salmon added) on the menu if that’s more your speed. Wolfgang Puck Express Roast Chicken — One of My All-Time Favorites Adding a glass of wine — upwards of $15 in some cases — really ups the value. Unfortunately there aren’t great specialty non-alcoholic drinks here, so be sure to get a big dollar entree or a glass of expensive wine to really up the value for your credit here. Be Our Guest Restaurant, Magic Kingdom This popular quick service spot is known at least as much for its atmosphere as it is for its French-inspired menu. Dining in the Beast’s ballroom? Yes, please? Breakfast or lunch in the West Wing? Let’s do it! (FYI: Dinner, which has always been a one-credit table service meal, is transforming into a two-credit Signature Meal on July 27, 2018.) The Ballroom at Be Our Guest This is one place where breakfast is actually a terrific DDP value! Entrées cost $25.00 — and the entire meal begins with pastries, too! Note that while alcohol is served for dinner here at Be Our Guest, it’s not available on the lunch or breakfast menus; so there’s no option to add some here. Crepes du Cogsworth But if you’re ordering the pricy breafkast or the higher priced lunch items (many are $16.99), this guest favorite can still be a good value — even without any specialty non-alcoholic beverages on the menu. Plus, when you add in the experience of dining in Disney World’s most sought after restaurant, that ups the value as well. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe, Magic Kingdom Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe doesn’t feature a menu of big-ticket items — but what it’s lacking in monetary value, it makes up for in Fixin’s. To make the most of the menu, select the Fajita Platter at $14.99 — then mosey over to the Fixin’ Bar and load ‘em on up! Fajita Platter at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Sadly, the Guacamole that used to be on the Fixin’s Bar is now an add-on (for $2.00), but the selection remains solid: red and green salsas, pico de gallo, banana peppers, lime wedges, shredded cheese, red onion, roasted corn, and sour cream. With these, you can even turn a snack credit of Nachos into a great entree! All Of The Toppings From The Toppings Bar The best specialty beverage option on the menu is the Strawberry Lemonade Slushy ($5.99) that comes with a souvenir Mickey Straw (yea!). But unfortunately, the other beverage options are pretty standard. (Remember there’s no alcohol served in the Magic Kingdom’s quick service locales!) Still, if you’re not interested in alcohol and/or really dig those toppings, Pecos Bill’s is a great Quick Service Disney Dining Plan option! You gotta have one! Or ten! Satu’li Canteen, Animal Kingdom Satu’li Canteen, located in Pandora at Animal Kingdom, is the newest addition to our Quick Service recommendations — and it’s more than earned its spot! This is the place to go for creative entree bowls — including a Combination Bowl for $15.99 that includes both Slow-Roasted Grilled Beef and Wood-Grilled Chicken! The entree bowls here come with a base (think rice, beans, potato hash, etc.), a sauce (we love the Charred Onion Chimichurri), and some slaw and Boba balls. Combination Bowl These bowls are substantial — and many diners will be able to share, thus using only one Quick Service DDP credit rather than two. (The Combination Bowl really makes this even more doable!) Plus, Satu’li Canteen also has several alcoholic and non-alcoholic drink options! Order a Pandoran Sunrise (non-alcoholic) for $4.49, or take in a glass of wine (about $9.00) or a beer (most cost around $8.50). The value is as terrific as the food at Satu’li Canteen! Pandoran Sunrise Sunshine Seasons, Epcot Sunshine Seasons has earned its reputation for fresh and interesting counter service dining options. And with the Living with the Land greenhouses just a stone’s throw away, Sunshine Seasons is a great place to quite literally get a taste of the World! The Mongolian Beef and the Pork Loin come in at over $13.00, and paired with a beer (Schofferhofer Pink Grapefruit Hefeweizen is a guest favorite and runs $8.75), wine (glasses are $7.50), or a specialty cocktail (we’re talkin’ Bloody Marys for $8.00!), you’ve got a decent DDP value. Slow-Roasted Pork with BBQ Sauce Even better? The non-alcoholic specialty drink offerings are good here! An Iced French Vanilla Coffee, a Lemonade Slushy, or a Strawberry-Banana Smoothie all cost over $5.00 — a great addition to your quick service credit here! And as an added bonus, the totally awesome desserts here are usually Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit eligible — so you could potentially share one of the hearty entrées at Sunshine Seasons and supplement with desserts! (We’re still into the Rose Gold Cupcake!) Rose Gold Ears Cupcake in Epcot D-Luxe Burger, Disney Springs D-Luxe Burger, located in Disney Springs, is one of our favorite quick service spots to grab a tasty, juicy burger — and their fries and specialty milkshakes earn it a place on our list! We love the Southern Burger with its creamy pimento cheese and the El Diablo with its surprising (for Disney!) heat! These are $11.99 and $12.99 respectively, so a decent value (especially for the quality!). El Diablo Burger The french fries here are great, and offer six (free) sauce choices, including Chipotle Mayo, Curry Ketchup, Buffalo Blue Cheese, Mustard and Honey, Garlic Ranch, and Horseradish. But note that D-Luxe has changed its dining plan credit set up and now offers ONLY the burger and a drink for your dining plan credit. Fries will be an extra snack credit. SO, that means you’ll have to determine the best value for your credit based on whether or not you want to indulge in one of the expensive specialty drinks here. French Fries with Dipping Sauces For those drinks, you can choose from Gelato Milkshakes and Ice Cream Floats, all of which run $7.00-$7.50 and taste dynamite! Alcoholic options abound, with everything from Henry’s Hard Orange Soda ($8.50) to glasses of chardonnay and bottles of beer. (There are also spiked milkshakes, but we have’t confirmed yet if these are included in DDP!) Salted Caramel Shake Added bonus at D-Luxe Burger: you can use Mobile Ordering and skip the line, y’all! So, you can definitely have a quick-service meal here top out at well over $20 for just the burger and drink, which makes it a comparable value to several others on this list. And the burgers truly are top-notch (unlike the majority of quick-service burgers in Disney World). But the fries being an extra snack credit is frustrating many Disney guests; so keep that one in mind. Tangierine Cafe, Epcot This oft-overlooked quick service spot is located in the spectacular Morocco Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. Known for its large platters of foods like hummus, tabouleh, and couscous, Tangierine is a vegetarian’s delight! The Veggie Platter comes in at $12.99, making it a great value. Meanwhile, for meat eaters, the Chicken Shawarma and Lamb Platter is $14.99 — an even better deal! (Incidentally, the Shawarma and Lamb Platter also comes with veggie sides, making it versatile for sharing between diners of all types!) Vegetarian Platter at Tangierine Cafe in Epcot’s Morocco Pavilion As for adding a beverage, diners can get beer here, with the most expensive being an imported beer for $7.99. There’s also sangria and Moroccan wine, to keep things interesting. As for specialty non-alcoholic drinks, there’s one: a Frozen Fruit Drink for $6.99. So it’s possible to increase the value on both fronts! The Polite Pig, Disney Springs The Polite Pig, another newcomer to this list and to Disney Springs, serves up some awesome meats and some equally awesome values on the Disney Dining Plan. Entrées ring in up to $23.00 (for Baby Back Ribs), and the salads are some of the best values on the menu! The BBQ Cobb Salad with Brisket is an amazing $21.00! The Polite Pig Brisket And there are tons — tons — of alcoholic beverage options here, from local beers to cocktails to bourbon. Sadly the biggest value-added non-alcoholic beverage is Sparkling Water for $4.00, so that’s disappointing. Still, with entrées being as pricy as they are and the quality of the food being top-notch, you can definitely maximize your quick-service credit here. Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory, Disney’s Port Orleans Resort, French Quarter Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory is the food court at Port Orleans — French Quarter Resort, and it’s terrific. (How often do we say that about a food court?) The food here is inspired by the bayou, with the Jambalaya being a particular favorite! Jambalaya Here the value is in the price and the quality, with tasty Po’Boys coming in $11-$13. Even more impressively, the Southern Classic Blackened Ribeye with added Shrimp comes in at a whopping $22.99! With smoothies and specialty coffees for non-alcoholic drink options and beer and wine for alcoholic beverages, it’s easy to add some extra value! Pepper Market, Coronado Springs Resort Unless you’ve stayed at Coronado Springs, there’s a good chance you’ve never tried this food court — but with options for every palate, it’s a fantastic value on the Quick Service DDP! Diners can nosh on Crab Cake Sandwiches ($14.99), bite into an Azteca Burger ($13.49), enjoy Braised Chicken Quarters ($14.99), and clean off some BBQ Ribs ($14.99) — all in a festive Mexican-style market! Dining Area in Pepper Market Specialty Coffee (think Cafe Mexicano for $4.89), Smoothies ($4.99), and Frozen Margaritas and Wine Slushies (both $9.95 and from the same minds that bring you Cava del Tequila cocktails!) help diners increase the value as well. We know that choosing where to spend your Quick Service Disney Dining Plan credits isn’t an easy decision — so we hope this list gives you some (ahem) food for thought! Don’t Miss Out on Any Disney Fun! The 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, is now available! With more than 650 pages, the 2018 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 order your copy of the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining E-book with code WDW2018 to save 25% today! Use code WDW2018 at check-out for a 25% off the cover price! Our guides are backed by a 100% money-back guarantee, so you have nothing to lose. Let us know in the comments what awesome places you’d add to the list! 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: Recommended Disney Dining Plan Quick Service Credit Values Top 5 Disney Dining Plan Quick-Service Values for 2012 5 Best Quick-Service Dining Plan Values View the full article

Ask any of my friends and they’ll attest that taking photos every second of every day isn’t my favorite activity. It’s not that I dislike photos, I’m just only in a picture-taking mood when I’m in a special place or something exciting is happening. This might seem ironic since I work with Disney PhotoPass Service, but I see it more as me finding my calling by supporting those behind the camera who capture incredible moments for guests each day! One time of year I love to take photos is graduation season. That’s because graduation photos aren’t just photos: They’re the commemoration of years of hard work and dedication, the tangible keepsakes that show a dream that perhaps at times seemed impossible finally becoming a reality. And what better place is there to celebrate dreams becoming a reality than at a Disney Park? Disney PhotoPass Service photographers are located all around Walt Disney World Resort, so grab your graduation regalia (or purchase a Mickey Mouse graduation headband or cap) and come visit us to capture some incredibly unique graduation photos that celebrate this achievement in a magnificent way. I really regret not doing this when I visited right before I graduated! And while I didn’t graduate with a degree in finance, I do feel confident saying that Memory Maker One Day is the perfect way to get the best value if you spend a day taking photos! With this product, you can take home digital downloads of all the Disney PhotoPass photos you can capture in one day at Walt Disney World Resort. Whether you celebrate with us or elsewhere, to all of the graduates out there: Congratulations! View the full article

We’re kicking off another week on the Disney Parks Blog with an adorable Disney Doodle from artist Ashley Taylor. In our Disney Doodles series, different Disney artists take turns imaging what different Disney characters would do or see first if they had the chance to visit a Disney Park. In today’s Doodle, artist Ashley imagines what Skippy and his other young friends from “Robin Hood” would do if they visited Magic Kingdom Park. “Skippy and his friends try to be fearless like Robin Hood, yet sometimes have a hard time facing their fears!” she said. “I imagine they would have to ride The Haunted Mansion together so they could take turns being brave!” View the full article

Today’s walk in the (theme) park was through Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Among the highlights of the quick trip were a full and boisterous crowd on Tower of Terror (with – PSYCH! -- fake ending) and walking straight onto Star Tours, where we visited the Wookiee planet and saw Princess Leia, on... View the full article

Pixar Fest has invaded Disney California Adventure Park — and you knew the Cozy Cone Motel had to get in on the fun! Cozy Cone Motel This snack favorite in Radiator Springs is known for serving tasty eats in tasty cones — and the Habanero Meatball Cone has zoomed its way to the top of our Pixar Fest favorites! Habanero Meatball Cone The Habanero Meatball Cone is packed with Spiral Pasta and Turkey Meatballs in Habanero Derby Sauce. Oh, and there are Cheese Crisps on top for a little crunch! Basil provides some color contrast and a nice herbaceous bite! Habanero Meatball Cone at Cozy Cone It’s pretty to look at, right? We love the Cheese Crisps — so yummy and so fun to munch on. Close up of Habanero Meatball Cone The Turkey Meatballs are standard fare — but juicy and flavorful. Meatball action! And covered in Habanero Derby Sauce, they’re delicious! We’re not really convinced this is a true Derby Sauce; it’s mostly tomato with a bit of heat from the habanero. But honestly, we’re not picking at the details because it’s thoroughly satisfying. Habanero Meatball The Spiral Noodles are a nice addition and turn this cone into more like a small entree than a snack! Pasta in the Habanero Meatball Cone You’ll want to make a pit stop at the Cozy Cone Motel because this quick service spot has won first place (so far!) in the Pixar Fest food race! Click here to read all about Pixar Fest and print your own Pixar Fest Food Checklist! Checklist! Would you dig into the Habanero Meatball Cone? Tell us in the comments below! Heather Sievers is DisneyFoodBlog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist! Check out more of her adventures at @DininginDisney on Instagram! 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: Pixar Fest Eats: Color-Changing Noodles at Lucky Fortune Cookery in Disney California Adventure! Pixar Fest Eats: Woody’s Boot with Root Beer Float Pixar Fest Eats: Adventure Tart Inspired by UP! at Jolly Holiday Bakery View the full article

Happy weekend! Here’s all the Disney food news this week! Stow Away Mary The 2018 Epcot Flower and Garden Festival is ON! We have FULL MENUS for the Epcot Flower and Garden FESTIVAL plus Photos of EVERY FOOD ITEM and most beverages! And, Pixar Fest is ON at Disneyland Resort! This fun festival runs through September 3! Click here to get a checklist for ALL the food at Pixar Fest and see our review! And it’s time to get the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 e-book! Save 25% now with code wdw2018! We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News More Pixar Fest eats! Check out our review of the Adventure Tart at Jolly Holiday Bakery! Free Dining was announced! Plus free dining for Canada residents and Disney Visa cardholders was also announced! The 2018 Eat to the Beat concert schedule was announced. We checked out the Millennial Pink Cupcakes at Disney World! Get all the details on the new Bourbon Trail coming to Disney Springs! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto celebrated its birthday with cupcakes! Check out the pros and cons of Disney World’s Minnie Vans. We reviewed the new menu at Disneyland’s Tangaroa Terrace. Advance Dining Reservations for Terralina Crafted Italian now available! Check out the Stow Away Mary at Epcot. There’s even more food at Pixar Fest that you need to check out! We have concept art for the new Concierge Club-Level Lounge at Coronado Springs. Salt & Straw Ice Cream is coming to Disneyland this year! Check out the Pork Chop TV Dinner and Fried Bologna at Pixar Fest! We have details on the menu at Terralina Crafted Italian in Disney Springs. We checked out the Carrot Cake Churro at Pixar Fest. We have a review of Disney snacks for guests with peanut and tree nut allergies. New DFB YouTube videos: Food Tour: Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion, 5 Super Fun Rainy Day Activities at Disney World, and Best Disney Dining Plan Snack Credit Values! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. New DFB Video: Best Disney Dining Plan Snack Credits Have you subscribed to the DFB YouTube Channel? We’ve got great content going up twice a week showcasing our adventures in Disney World and Disneyland! This week, we’re sharing our latest video – Best Disney Dining Plan Snack Credits! Check it out — and don’t forget to subscribe here. Deal of the Week: 25% off the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2018 is here and we’re celebrating the grand launch with 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018. What’s in the DFB Guide? The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2018 Edition is full of need-to-know details, tools, and features to make your trip go smoothly, including: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. An in-depth analysis of the Disney Dining Plan and whether it’s right for YOU. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges WITH reviews. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable right in your pocket! With over 600 pages of full-color photos, tips on the best restaurants, an ENTIRE chapter on snacks — including the best snack credit values throughout the parks and resorts — and a full break-down of whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it for your family, now’s the time to get started planning your next Disney World vacation! 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining Sample Pages Here’s Just Some Of What We’ve Updated In the 2018 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining e-Book: Fully updated prices and restaurant info for 2018 visitors Updated details about available discounts and deals at Disney World restaurants DFB’s own 2018 recommendations for everything from table service to counter service to snacks and more Over 600 pages of updated Disney Dining advice, details, and information Disney Dining Plan Analysis – Is it right for your family? Can you really save money? NEW Disney food and restaurant photos Updated reviews of all Disney World restaurants, kiosks, bars, and lounges including all new eateries An updated chapter focused on one of the most popular Disney dining topics: Snacks in the theme parks and resorts A comprehensive section of What’s NEW in Disney Food, including new restaurants, new menus, restaurant closures, and more Updated information about the My Magic+ Planning System that Disney rolled out in 2013, and how it may affect your 2018 Disney plans Changes coming to Disney World in 2018 and 2019! As you can see, this is a labor of love and we put a ton of time and effort (and research) into ensuring that we are sharing with you the most relevant, up to date Disney Food Information that’s available. We do this so that you can plan your own Disney visit with confidence, and have the trip of a lifetime, every time. And right now you can save 25% off the cover price with promo code WDW2018! DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or around Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday. Cafe Orleans is home to AJ’s favorite food in Disneyland! Recently, DFB reader Sea Witch Stitch sent us a photo of the Pommes Frites with two sides of Spicy Cajun Remoulade – because of the DFB’s recommendation – “Thanks for the advice on getting TWO remoulade sauces. Pro move.” A favorite at Cafe Orleans! Baseline Tap House opened last fall at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and it’s a great place to stop for a drink and some bar eats. DFB reader Disneytourist65 recently stopped by and shared this pic of their eats! Can’t go wrong with a sampler and a giant pretzel! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix shared the must-have Disney Eats Kitchen Collection! WDW for Grownups shared some late-night options at Disney Springs. Disney Parks Blog shared a how-to video for a Lady and the Tramp Bento Box. Disney Family shared a recipe for Mickey Macarons. Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! 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: Disney Food News This Week – April 15, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: April 22, 2018 Disney Food News This Week: April 8, 2018 View the full article

Get ready, vacation planners – if you are planning to visit the Walt Disney World Resort this spring or summer, we have details you do not want to miss! For a limited time, guests staying at select Walt Disney World resort hotels can take advantage of more opportunities to enjoy additional Extra Magic Hours. On select mornings April 29-June 30, guests can enjoy Extra Magic Hours access to the most popular experiences at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including the newest attractions in Pandora – The World of Avatar, as well as guest favorites like Expedition Everest and Dinosaur. In July and August guests staying at select Walt Disney World resort hotels can access Extra Magic Hours daily – yes, daily! – to experience favorite attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, including the attractions in the all-new Toy Story Land. To start planning your Walt Disney World vacation now, check out DisneyWorld.com. View the full article

A whole lot of superheroes added up to a whole lot of ticket sales. The superhero smorgasbord "Avengers: Infinity Wars" opened with predictable shock-and-awe, earning $250 million in box office over the weekend and edging past "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" to set the highest opening weekend of... View the full article

On May Day, there will be a Disney World event that might make you go “Hmmmmmm.” There will be a livestream of the sunrise. OK, uh, doesn’t that happen (almost) everywhere? Ah, but this will be from the Magic Kingdom, so there’s the Cinderella Castle factor, the fact that most mortals have never... View the full article

This week, Shanghai Disney Resort welcomed its first official guests to Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land, the first major expansion at the resort since its grand opening in 2016. Gallery Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land at Shanghai Disneyland view all Based on the Disney·Pixar film series, Shanghai Disneyland’s seventh themed land is a high-spirited, colorful world where guests feel as if they’ve been shrunk down to the size of their favorite Toy Story toys. “We’re incredibly proud of the success of this one-of-a-kind, world-class destination, and we are thrilled to give our Chinese guests even more to explore and enjoy at the resort with the addition of a spectacular new land based on Pixar’s beloved Toy Story characters,” said Bob Iger, Chairman and CEO of The Walt Disney Company. Visit our original Disney·Pixar Toy Story Land story for more details. We also shared an update that our next #DisneyParksLIVE stream will feature a favorite spring sight! May 1 is known as May Day, a day meant to celebrate the change of seasons and officially welcome in spring. To celebrate the season, we’re hosting a #DisneyParksLIVE stream from Magic Kingdom Park featuring one of our favorite spring sights, a beautiful sunrise at Magic Kingdom Park – before the park opens for the day. Tune in May 1 at 6:00 a.m. ET and let us know where you’re tuning in from! Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. Nineteen People, Four Generations, One Family, of Disneyland Resort Cast Members – For many people, working at the Disneyland Resort is a family tradition. For the Gerlach family, working at the Disneyland Resort is a family tradition spanning four generations and 19 people, dating back to 1956! First Look at Exclusive Merchandise and Special Appearances Coming to Star Wars: Galactic Nights on May 27 – Star Wars: Galactic Nights, a one-night special event, will return to Disney’s Hollywood Studios on May 27. In case you aren’t familiar, Star Wars: Galactic Nights is a thrilling Star Wars-themed event held after park hours from 7 p.m.-midnight. Pixar Pal-A-Round to Debut at Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park – When Pixar Pier opens this summer, the colorful worlds of Pixar will get a new home at Disney California Adventure park, offering an exciting mix of entertainment, themed food and beverage, merchandise and attractions. All in the Details: Woody Arrives in Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort – Toy Story Land is nearing completion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at Walt Disney World Resort – and earlier today, our Imagineers celebrated a new milestone as they welcomed the “rootinest, tootinest cowboy around” – Woody, that is – to his permanent place in the land. Sheila E, 98 Degrees, MercyMe, Tauren Wells Bring Magic to 2018 Epcot International Food and Wine Festival – Regular readers of the blog know that music is an integral part of the Epcot “festival” experience. And, we’re excited to give you an update on the “Eat to the Beat” concert series for this year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, coming this fall. First Look: New Incredicoaster Trains at Disney California Adventure Park – The much-anticipated Incredicoaster is set to make its high-speed debut this summer when Pixar Pier opens to guests at Disney California Adventure park. Disney Imagineers have been putting the final details on the new trains, which will take you on a thrilling race alongside “The Incredibles.” Four Ideas for Planning Your Very, Merry Unbirthday Party – Whether you’re planning a birthday party, a very merry unbirthday party, or a family gathering, there is plenty of Disney inspiration to help you add a few special touches to your celebration. Take a look at these four ideas for planning your very own Alice in Wonderland-themed event – you don’t want to be late for this very important date! View the full article

Hey Guys! We’re back with another DFB Video this weekend, and we’re taking you on a Food Tour of Epcot’s American Adventure Pavilion! American Dream in American Adventure Pavilion Admittedly, with so many unique and interesting dining options around Epcot’s World Showcase, the American Adventure Pavilion doesn’t really spring to mind when it comes to eating in Epcot. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few surprises tucked in this Pavilion. From its own Craft Beer kiosk to a terrific new dessert in the Pavilion’s Counter Service location, Liberty Inn, there are indeed some FOOD adventures to be had while you’re having your own American Adventure! Find out more about them 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: Do you have a favorite treat in the American Adventure Pavilion? 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: Food Tour of Epcot’s Morocco DFB Video: Food Tour of Epcot’s Japan Pavilion DFB Video: FOOD TOUR of Epcot’s France Pavilion View the full article

The Disney-Pixar film Up! is known for its steadfast commitment to adventuring — and in that spirit, the foodie brains behind Jolly Holiday Bakery‘s contributions to Pixar Fest at Disneyland Resort have created a tart in that same spirit: the Adventure Tart. And while the flavors aren’t going to transport you to another land, it’ll still leave you satisfied with the journey. Adventure Tart at Jolly Holiday The tart appears to be in the spirit of everyone’s favorite childhood breakfast dessert: a Pop Tart. In shape and in composition, the Adventure Tart mimics this cereal-aisle gem. The rectangular Adventure Tart is covered in a thin layer of nondescript glaze on which is attached an iconic image from the film: Carl, Russell, Dug, and the ubiquitous house kept aloft by colorful balloons. Adventure Tart The image is actually pretty decent in terms of clarity (once you get out from under the Bakery’s artificial lights!) and the characters are as charming as ever. Adventure Tart The Adventure Tart is a sizable treat (just as Jolly Holiday’s other contribution — the Specialty Eclair — is!). No skimping on size here just because its a limited-time festival offering! Adventure Tart And the pastry itself is terrific! It’s flaky and buttery and golden brown. Definitely an upgrade from any packaged tart! Adventure Tart Inside is Chocolate Hazelnut Spread — making this a surefire hit with the Nutella set! Adventure Tart There’s a lot of filling in there, so you won’t feel like you’ve got too much pastry to go with that filling. Overall, it’s pretty rich and utterly enjoyable. Adventure Tart We’d love to see this one get even more adventurous with some alternative fillings — like some fruit spreads or maybe even something savory. Go out on a limb! Live a little! In the meantime, don’t mind us as we scoop Up! even more of these… Click here to read all of our Pixar Fest reviews and print your own Pixar Fest Food Checklist! What would you love to fill a tart with? Tell us in the comments! Heather Sievers is DisneyFoodBlog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist! Check out more of her adventures at @DininginDisney on Instagram! 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: Pixar Fest Eats: Peanut Butter and Jelly Eclairs at Jolly Holiday Bakery in Disneyland Pixar Fest Eats: Color-Changing Noodles at Lucky Fortune Cookery in Disney California Adventure! Pixar Fest Eats: Woody’s Boot with Root Beer Float View the full article

You’re ready to jump on the “Millennial Pink” treat bandwagon. We know. That soft pink is kind of irresistible. And thankfully, there’s no need to resist! We gave you the inside scoop about the many pink things that have popped up in Walt Disney World, and today we’re getting up close and personal with two Millennial Pink cupcakes! We’ll start in one of the best food courts in the World: Landscape of Flavors at Art of Animation Resort! Landscape of Flavors This Millennial Pink Cupcake is covered in raspberry frosting rosettes, shades of pink pearls, and two chocolate-and-pink Minnie ears. Inside you’ll discover Marshmallow Filling! It’s a tasty combo (particularly with that surprising marshmallow!). Millennial Pink Cupcake at Landscape of Flavors The second Millennial Pink Cupcake I tried was at Contempo Cafe — a fabulous spot for seeking out unique and flavorful cupcakes (we lurve the Churro Cupcake that’s in the rotation here!)! Here, there’s substance and style! Millennial Pink Cupcake at Contempo Cafe This Millennial Pink Cupcake has a completely different look — with thick Vanilla Buttercream (instead of the lighter buttercream usually found on Contempo Cafe cupcakes) and an actual pair of white chocolate Millennial Pink Minnie Ears on top! Millennial Cupcake from Contempo Cafe Inside this cutie is a thick Berry Jam Filling. I was actually REALLY impressed with this cupcake — frosting, cake, filling, and all. If you’ve gotta pick between Landscape of Flavors and Contempo Cafe, it’s Contempo Cafe all the way! Jam inside the Millennial Pink Cupcake There you have it: two fantastic cupcakes that happen to be on the Millennial Pink train! And we’re a-okay with that! 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? Which Millennial Pink treat are you most looking forward to trying? 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: Millennial Pink Treats are Taking Over Disney World! Millennial Pink Chocolate Treats Debut at Disney World’s Ganachery Guest Review: Two New Cupcakes at Contempo Cafe in Disney World View the full article

Earlier this week, we shared the exciting news of the arrival of the “rootinest, tootinest cowboy around” – Woody, that is – to Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios at the Walt Disney World Resort. Click through the gallery above from our Disney Parks Blog Instagram account for more! View the full article

As part of preparation for the upcoming Disney Night on “American Idol,” the top 10 contestants spent time at the Happiest Place on Earth this week. During the day, the contestants met with favorite Pixar pals and new friends, as well as experienced attractions and entertainment part of Pixar Fest, the limited-time celebration going on now through September 3 at the Disneyland Resort. In the evening, the group gathered together to hear superstar judge Katy Perry perform a timeless Disney song in front of Disneyland park’s iconic castle. Check out highlights from their visit below! Catch the top 10’s magical group performance from the castle and solo performances of their favorite Disney songs during Disney Night on “American Idol” this Sunday, April 29 at 8 p.m. EDT on The ABC Television Network. Also, for the first time in the history of American television, a reality-competition series will allow viewers to watch and vote from both coasts simultaneously as “American Idol” is simulcast in all time zones across the country over a three-week span, starting with this Sunday’s episode! Viewers will be able to vote by text, via AmericanIdol.com/vote or on the American Idol app. Results will be revealed at the end of each show in real time across all time zones. View the full article

Starting May 1st, you can explore the new BOURBON TRAIL in Disney Springs! Bourbon Trail ©Disney Through June 17th, guests ages 21 and up can take a crawl of sorts, with destinations along the way offering bourbon-inspired drinks paired with various dishes. No matter which restaurants you select (and there will be several to choose from!), your first stop will be the Disney Springs Welcome Center to grab a Bourbon Trail Passport listing all the destinations, drinks, and dishes. (Or you can find the information at any of the participating restaurants.) Bourbon Trail Map ©Disney Are you ready to see what’s on the Bourbon Trail now? Well, then… here we go! House of Blues Restaurant & Bar Fine and Mellow – featuring Knob Creek Bourbon, St. Elder, lemon juice, strawberry, and rhubarb bitters Hurry Sundown Old Fashioned – featuring Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Benedictine, butter pecan syrup, bitters, and caramel pecan bacon Smoked Brisket or Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich Homemade Bread Pudding – topped with toffee sauce and bourbon butter (this is amazing — click on the link to read all about it!) Toffee Bread Pudding at House of Blues Splitsville Luxury Lanes Dining Room The Trifecta – a stirred concoction of Old Forester 100, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Benedictine, and Pimento Dram BBQ Chicken Pizza – smothered in BBQ sauce, topped with marinated grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, mozzarella, cilantro, and red onion Splitsville on the Bourbon Trail ©Disney Bongos Cuban Cafe Angel’s Envy Bourbon Mojito – featuring Angel’s Blue Envy Bourbon, simple syrup, soda water, and fresh mint leaves Authentic Cuban Style Churrasco Certified Angus Beef – a 10-ounce skirt steak hand-cut and served with house-made chimichurri sauce, white rice, and beans YeSake Strawberry Bourbon Sour Slushie – bourbon, sweet strawberry puree, and lemonade Citrus Fresh – salmon, green leaf lettuce, cucumber, onion, spinach, and jalapeño tempura crunch wasabi ponzu sauce (available as a bowl or wrap) YeSake Planet Hollywood Observatory Bulleit Frontier Old Fashioned – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, sugar, and bitters BBQ Ribs – fall-off-the-bone St. Louis-style ribs, slow cooked in-house, smothered with BBQ sauce, and served with triple fries STK Orlando Double Down – featuring Woodford Reserve and lemon juice Double Smoked Bacon – served with date chutney, oven-dried tomatoes, and crispy garlic Bag O’ Donuts – enhanced with dulche de leche filling and spice chocolate and raspberry sauces Bag o Donuts Enzo’s Hideaway Enzo’s Bourbon Swizzle – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, lemon juice, ginger syrup, bitters, and fresh mint sprigs with notes of spice, rye, and cedar Salumi and Formaggi Board – an impressive selection of meats and cheeses Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar and Restaurant The Edison Peach Tree Downs – a refreshing peach mint julep with a nutty pecan finish featuring Knob Creek Bourbon and Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey, with a rich, sweet, woody, full-bodied and almost-fruity flavor and aromas of toasted nuts, grain, and oak DB Clothesline Candied Bacon – maple and black pepper-infused bacon served with a sour pickle DB Clothesline Candied Bacon Paradiso 37 Kentucky Sunrise – featuring Jim Beam Bourbon, orange juice, and grenadine Argentinian Skirt Steak – 10-ounce char-grilled skirt steak topped with caramelized onions and chimichurri and served with wasabi or truffle fries The Ganachery Woodford Reserve Bourbon – comprised of more than 200 delectable flavor notes, from bold grain and wood to sweet aromatics: spice, fruit, and floral notes Raglan Road The Gold Cup – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and muddled mint, lime, and cucumber Dub Schpuds – herb roasted potato wedges with a Smithwick’s & Dubliner cheese dip Raglan Road Pub Menu Dub Schpuds Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Coffee Old Fashioned – Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee, Vanilla Syrup, Aromatic Bitters, and served with a coffee ganache square Snakebite Sliders – three gourmet beef sliders with tomato-bacon jam, house-made pickles, shredded lettuce and cheese The Boathouse Orlando Pride – featuring Old Forester Bourbon and a homemade blackberry citrus purée Calamari – hoisin chili marinated calamari rings lightly fried with a medley of peppers and served with a side of hoisin chili sauce The Boathouse on the Bourbon Trail ©Disney Paddlefish Southern Sangria – featuring Medley Bros. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, peach liqueur, Tempranillo, and seasonal fruit with warm notes of caramel, oak, and spices that are followed by touches of creamy vanilla, milk chocolate, and caramelized sugar The Pork Chop – a 10-ounce pork chop served with house-made applesauce and fresh green beans Southern Sangria The Polite Pig Winner’s Circle – featuring Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Pamplemousee grapefruit liqueur, and elderflower tonic, with a rich and complex flavors and hints of vanilla, toffee, and candied fruit The Southern Pig Sandwich – mouthwatering pulled pork, fennel-apple slaw, tangy mustard BBQ and Dukes Mayonnaise Frontera Cocina Bórbon Néctar – featuring Basil Hayden’s Bourbon, 3 dashes of organic agave, 5 drops of Elemakule Tiki Bitters, and orange peel with lean oak, corn, and caramel flavors and finishes of warm toffee, spice, and drying wood Carne Asada – garlic and red chili-marinated Creekstone Natural Black Angus Steak, black beans refritos with queso fresco, and caramelized plantains with crema and Cotija cheese and served with tomatillo salsa and warm tortillas D-Luxe Burger Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake – vanilla gelato blended with Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon, hickory smoke, and dark chocolate sauce and topped with a bacon strip Southern Burger – signature blend beef patty topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese, lettuce, grilled onion, and bacon Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ The Old Fashioned Elder – featuring Michter’s Bourbon and St. Germain Elderflower Basil Hayden’s Mint Julep – featuring Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, simple syrup, and sprigs of fresh mint Famous Thigh High Chicken Biscuits – three biscuits topped with Chef Art’s fried chicken thighs, drizzled with hot honey, and served alongside bread and butter pickles Chicken Biscuits Again, you’ve got from May 1st through June 17th to grab a map and join in the fun. If your vacation falls within those dates and you decide to travel the Trail, please let us know! Not a bourbon drinker? We’ve got you covered… check out 5 new drinks that you’ve just got to try in Disney World this year! Are you intrigued by the Bourbon Trail? 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: Smokey Bones (Bourbon-n-Bacon) Chocolate Shake at Trilo-Bites in Disney’s Animal Kingdom The Disney Springs Christmas Tree Trail Now Open for 2017 — Now With Food! (Sort of!) News: D-Luxe Burger to Open May 2016 in Disney Springs View the full article

Disney Springs visitors won’t have to leave Florida to experience a bourbon trail. Eighteen restaurants and venues in the entertainment district will offer bourbon-inspired cocktail and food pairings, according to the Disney Parks Blog. The Bourbon Trail items will be available for a limited time... View the full article

Have you enjoyed raising a glass at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Resort anytime over the past three years? Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Then maybe you’ll want to celebrate the Grotto’s 3rd “official” Anniversary with a CUPCAKE! But you’ve got to act fast… like, really fast. @enchantedtikibar Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Instagram Head to the Polynesian TODAY and hit up Trader Sam’s starting at 3:00 PM to get one while supplies last! AHOY!!! Let us know if you’re able to grab a Trader Sam’s Anniversary Cupcake with a comment below! 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: 2nd Edition of The Nautilus Now Available at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort More Details of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Revealed at…Disneyland!? News! Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto Souvenir Glasses Now Available View the full article

Picture this: You have an Advance Dining Reservation at Polynesian Village Resort’s ‘Ohana, but you’ve just finished getting your swim on at Animal Kingdom Lodge. How do you get from point A to point B? You could use Disney transportation, which would entail a lengthy bus ride from Animal Kingdom Lodge to Magic Kingdom, then a transfer to either the Resort Monorail Loop or the boat to the Poly. Catch that Monorail! But what if one or more of these modes of transportation is delayed? What about the meats?! How will you get your Lapu Lapu?! The ‘Ohana Bread Pudding is slipping through your fingers! ‘Ohana Bread Pudding Woo — hold the phone. There’s a solution to this problem! More than one, actually. If you’re operating on a tight schedule or fear bad Disney transportation karma, you could hail a taxi, book a ride share, or opt for the cutest transportation yet known to Disney fans: the Minnie Van. Minnie Van But how do you know which one is right for you? Well, you listen to your good pals at the DFB, that’s how. Here are some pros and cons of Disney World’s Minnie Vans to help you make your decision! Let’s talk price. Minnie Vans operate on a flat rate — at present $25 — no matter where you’re picked up or where you’re going on Walt Disney World property. Yep, this is pricey, for sure — especially compared to Uber or a regular Lyft…or even, sometimes, a taxi. However, note that Minnie Vans currently don’t have surge pricing for busy times, and they’re all large enough to carry six passengers. Other ride share programs may bump you up to the second tier pricing if you’ve got more than four passengers, so you might find that the Minnie Van is more economical for you when traveling with a larger group. Any discounts? In my personal experience, Lyft free rides and discounts have been able to be applied to my Minnie Van rides. Your experience may vary if this service is discontinued in the future. How about car seats? But if you’ve got kiddos in tow, keep in mind that the Minnie Van service will provide you with two clean, well-maintained Graco car seats for no additional charge, and the exceptional drivers are skilled in how to put them into the car as either a 5-point harness, booster, or backless booster. Ride-shares and taxis may charge for the car seat if they even have one (much less TWO), and I can nearly guarantee you that the driver won’t be trained in how to install the seat safely. Also the seat in a random ride-share is very possibly disgusting and potentially unsafe. I say this from lots of experience. Got a dog? Minnie Vans have puppy mats that you can spread out for your dog! And with several Disney World resorts now being dog-friendly, this is a great perk of the Minnie Vans! Let’s talk drivers. The Minnie Van program is “powered by Lyft,” but the drivers of all Minnie Vans at the moment are relatively long-term Disney World cast members, many of whom have been working for the company for many years — and have been specially chosen for this particular assignment because of their knowledge of the property, customer service abilities, and more. With taxis and ride shares, you can’t be sure who will be behind the wheel. Let’s talk convenience. Minnies are currently available to guests staying at nearly ALL Disney World resorts. Excluded resorts at present include the All-Star Resorts, Art of Animation, and Coronado Springs Resort. These locations are serviced as destinations, but at this time, pick-ups are unavailable. No Minnie Vans for you, CSR! To call a Minnie Van, guests must use the Lyft app and have the Minnie Van option activated either at the front desk of their resort or on the My Disney Experience app. This can be a bit of an inconvenience at first, but once you’ve activated it, Minnie Vans will pop up automatically in the app. Finally, Minnie Vans will only deliver guests to another on-property location or to MCO Airport. So if you’re looking to get off-site to grab a meal (or hit the outlet shops hard!), you won’t be able to do that in a Minnie Van. For that, you’ll need your rental car or a standard ride-sharing service or taxi. How Many People Can Ride in a Minnie Van? Minnie Vans come in the form of Chevy Traverse SUVs that can carry up to six passengers (again, with required car seats included at no charge). For parties with wheelchairs or ECVs, other wheelchair-accessible Chevy vehicles are available. Remember that other ride share programs will bump you up to the second tier pricing if you’ve got more than four passengers, while Minnie Vans accommodate up to six passengers. Any extras? Minnie Vans do have a few perks. First is that they are driven by long-time Disney World cast members, which generally means you’ll have a pleasant ride without the awkwardness sometimes experienced with other drivers. (Guests have reported terrific interactions with their Minnie Van drivers, but as with anything, your experience can vary.) Minnie Vans also provide complimentary phone chargers which, you know, if you’re blogging, social media-ing, or chatting throughout the day, you might need! No more looking for a plug behind tables at Cosmic Ray’s! :p Finally, Minnie Vans are cute. The distinctive styling is full of charm, and you’ll feel like you’re getting a VIP transport experience in true Disney fashion. That charm might help you make a new trip memory! Minnie Vans vs. Disney World Transportation We know that a lot of guests have a love/hate relationship with Disney World Transportation — and we feel your pain. On the one hand, some of it is super fun (particularly for kiddos!), like the Monorail and boats. But even these have some drawbacks — namely unexpected suspended service. Disney World buses, in our experience, can be more hit-or-miss. They’re often crowded, and the wait times can be up to 20 minutes or more. And if you’re trying to hit rope drop or return to your resort after fireworks? You might watch a few buses come and go before you even get on! Epcot Bus Minnie Vans (and other ride-shares and taxis) can effectively cut transportation time in half when compared to the waiting and the multiple legs of travel needed to go from resort-to-resort. (Plus, you’re guaranteed a seat in your Minnie Van — not so on Disney Transportation!) Also, Minnie Vans could be a very useful tool in your toolbox when you’re going to an early morning reservation before the buses are running, or traveling during peak public transportation times like rope drop or after the fireworks. That said, Disney transportation is totally, 100% free. And that’s a tough benefit to surpass. And the MOST IMPORTANT PERK OF USING MINNIE VANS: Minnie Vans will drop you off and pick you up at the Magic Kingdom bus stop in front of the park. This is insanely useful, my friends. Other ride-shares and taxis can only pick you up and drop you off at the Transportation and Ticket Center (or the Contemporary Resort if you’re getting creative)…which is a hassle when you’ve got a Fastpass+ in 10 minutes! Being dropped off at the gates of Magic Kingdom is a luxury and benefit that really can’t be quantified, in my opinion. Do we recommend using the Minnie Van service? Absolutely. I, personally, use them regularly (but, I’m a person who’s perpetually late for everything and only in Disney World for a few days at a time, so Minnie Vans are often the only way I can be on time for a packed day of meetings, Fastpasses, or Advance Dining Reservations). This is not a budget option. I think the price point is high, but it may be worth it for you when you consider the two high-end, versatile car seats that can be expertly installed for you, the six-person capacity, and the knowledge that your driver is a Disney professional . If you’re on a budget and don’t mind waiting, Disney transportation is effective, fun, and 100% free. However, if you’ve got multiple kids and strollers, are traveling when Disney transportation isn’t running, are in a hurry, or prefer a little more convenience, Minnie Vans could be the ideal solution. Time is money when I’m in Disney World, so if a reasonably priced ride-share can get me where I need to go quickly and conveniently, I’m grateful for that option. But you’ll need to crunch the numbers for yourself and determine if Minnie Vans are right for you. For all the nuts and bolts of Minnie Vans, check out our Minnie Van Reference Page! Have you experienced the Minnie Vans? Tell us about your experience in the comments below! 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: Pros and Cons of Disney World Transportation Tips from the DFB Guide: Disney Character Meal Pros and Cons Tip from the DFB Guide: 6 Important Disney Dining Plan Pros and Cons View the full article

There’s something exciting – and tasty! – coming to Disney Springs on May 1. Kick off your summer by exploring this brand-new Bourbon Trail, where guests ages 21 and older can discover bourbon-inspired beverages and food pairings. Meander through the many shops and restaurants throughout the area and find your favorites! Each of these drinks has been carefully paired with a delicious dish, and there’s even a map that shows where to find all of them! Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado, or just enjoy sipping and savoring new drinks, this trail is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a night out with friends. I’ve put together this guide to everything being offered on the trail, so be sure to read up and prepare your taste buds, because these offerings will only be available through June 17 and you won’t want to miss out! You might even find me strolling about and sipping on a tasty beverage myself … House of Blues Restaurant & Bar Fine and Mellow – featuring Knob Creek Bourbon, St. Elder, lemon juice, strawberry, and rhubarb bitters Hurry Sundown Old Fashioned – featuring Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Benedictine, butter pecan syrup, bitters, and caramel pecan bacon Smoked Brisket or Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich Homemade Bread Pudding – topped with toffee sauce and bourbon butter Splitsville Dining Room The Trifecta – a stirred concoction of Old Forester 100, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Benedictine, and Pimento Dram BBQ Chicken Pizza – smothered in BBQ sauce, topped with marinated grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, mozzarella, cilantro, and red onion Bongos Cuban Café Angel’s Envy Bourbon Mojito – featuring Angel’s Blue Envy Bourbon, simple syrup, soda water, and fresh mint leaves Authentic Cuban Style Churrasco Certified Angus Beef – a 10-ounce skirt steak hand-cut and served with house-made chimichurri sauce, white rice, and beans YeSake Strawberry Bourbon Sour Slushie – bourbon, sweet strawberry puree, and lemonade Citrus Fresh – salmon, green leaf lettuce, cucumber, onion, spinach, and jalapeño tempura crunch wasabi ponzu sauce (available as a bowl or wrap) Planet Hollywood Observatory Bulleit Frontier Old Fashioned – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, sugar, and bitters BBQ Ribs – fall-off-the-bone St. Louis-style ribs, slow cooked in-house, smothered with BBQ sauce, and served with triple fries STK Orlando Double Down – featuring Woodford Reserve and lemon juice Double Smoked Bacon – served with date chutney, oven-dried tomatoes, and crispy garlic Bag O’ Donuts – enhanced with dulche de leche filling and spice chocolate and raspberry sauces Enzo’s Hideaway Enzo’s Bourbon Swizzle – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, lemon juice, ginger syrup, bitters, and fresh mint sprigs with notes of spice, rye, and cedar Salumi and Formaggi Board – an impressive selection of meats and cheeses The Edison Peach Tree Downs – a refreshing peach mint julep with a nutty pecan finish featuring Knob Creek Bourbon and Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey, with a rich, sweet, woody, full-bodied and almost-fruity flavor and aromas of toasted nuts, grain, and oak DB Clothesline Candied Bacon – maple and black pepper-infused bacon served with a sour pickle Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas Kentucky Sunrise – featuring Jim Beam Bourbon, orange juice, and grenadine Argentinian Skirt Steak – 10-ounce char-grilled skirt steak topped with caramelized onions and chimichurri and served with wasabi or truffle fries The Ganachery Woodford Reserve Bourbon – comprised of more than 200 delectable flavor notes, from bold grain and wood to sweet aromatics: spice, fruit, and floral notes Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant The Gold Cup – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and muddled mint, lime, and cucumber Dub Schpuds – herb roasted potato wedges with a Smithwick’s & Dubliner cheese dip Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar Coffee Old Fashioned – Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee, Vanilla Syrup, Aromatic Bitters, and served with a coffee ganache square Snakebite Sliders – three gourmet beef sliders with tomato-bacon jam, house-made pickles, shredded lettuce and cheese The Boathouse Orlando Pride – featuring Old Forester Bourbon and a homemade blackberry citrus purée Calamari – hoisin chili marinated calamari rings lightly fried with a medley of peppers and served with a side of hoisin chili sauce Paddlefish Southern Sangria – featuring Medley Bros. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, peach liqueur, Tempranillo, and seasonal fruit with warm notes of caramel, oak, and spices that are followed by touches of creamy vanilla, milk chocolate, and caramelized sugar The Pork Chop – a 10-ounce pork chop served with house-made applesauce and fresh green beans The Polite Pig Winner’s Circle – featuring Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Pamplemousee grapefruit liqueur, and elderflower tonic, with a rich and complex flavors and hints of vanilla, toffee, and candied fruit The Southern Pig Sandwich – mouthwatering pulled pork, fennel-apple slaw, tangy mustard BBQ and Dukes Mayonnaise Frontera Cocina Bórbon Néctar – featuring Basil Hayden’s Bourbon, 3 dashes of organic agave, 5 drops of Elemakule Tiki Bitters, and orange peel with lean oak, corn, and caramel flavors and finishes of warm toffee, spice, and drying wood Carne Asada – garlic and red chili-marinated Creekstone Natural Black Angus Steak, black beans refritos with queso fresco, and caramelized plantains with crema and Cotija cheese and served with tomatillo salsa and warm tortillas D-Luxe Burger Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake – vanilla gelato blended with Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon, hickory smoke, and dark chocolate sauce and topped with a bacon strip Southern Burger – signature blend beef patty topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese, lettuce, grilled onion, and bacon Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ The Old Fashioned Elder – featuring Michter’s Bourbon and St. Germain Elderflower Basil Hayden’s Mint Julep – featuring Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, simple syrup, and sprigs of fresh mint Famous Thigh High Chicken Biscuits – three biscuits topped with Chef Art’s fried chicken thighs, drizzled with hot honey, and served alongside bread and butter pickles Everything on this tasty Bourbon Trail will be available at Disney Springs from May 1 to June 17, so come on out, grab a drink and a snack, and take a walk with us! You can even pick up a Bourbon Trail Passport that contains all of this info and more at the Disney Springs Welcome Center and at any participating locations. View the full article