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Walt Disney World is creating dinners packaged tied to its popular “Festival of the Lion King” show at Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. There are two tiers of the offer, both of which include a meal at the park’s Tiffins restaurant and reserved VIP seating to the production. The Festival of... View the full article

As they get ready for the season finale of Freeform’s ‘Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger’, Freeform stars Olivia Holt and Aubrey Joseph took a break from filming and travelled to Walt Disney World Resort for a magical visit. Disney Park veteran Olivia Holt showed Aubrey Joseph around one of her favorite places, and they experienced the new Toy Story Land area at Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the first time together. Aubrey is a huge Woody fan and he couldn’t pass up taking a pic with his favorite pal, and of course Olivia and Jessie, at Toy Story Land. Olivia, a major roller coaster fan, was excited to ride the Slinky Dog Dash attraction for the first time. This Disney veteran exclaimed that Slinky Dog Dash is her new favorite ride ever! Aubrey and Olivia took a trip back at time and dined at the 50’s Prime Time Cafe. Continuing the fun after lunch, Olivia takes Aubrey to the Magic Kingdom Park to experience her favorite classic Disney attractions such as Mad Tea Party, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Splash Mountain and even stopped for a photo at the Purple Wall in the Tomorrowland area. Olivia had a true Cinderella moment in front of Cinderella Castle. Don’t miss the season finale of Freeform’s Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger Thursday, August 2nd at 8pm/7c on Freeform. Haven’t caught up yet? Binge the first 9 episodes of Freeform’s Marvel’s Cloak & Dagger on freeform.com, On Demand, or Hulu. View the full article

Friar’s Nook at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom is known for a regularly changing menu, and right now there are two yummy eats that offer a lot of bang for the buck! Friar’s Nook The last major change to the menu at Friar’s Nook added three intriguing tater tot dishes. And while two of the tot options remain — Fiesta Tots with their little kick, and Loaded Buffalo Chicken Tots, which tick lots of flavor boxes. The Greek Tots have been replaced by Pub Tots. (Kids can get Tater Tots and Cheese Sauce as a meal here, too!) New Menu Options at Friar’s Nook! The picture menu in front of Friar’s Nook gives you a good idea of what to expect for each menu item, which is helpful if you have a picky eater in your crew or want to know more about the quantity of food you’ll receive. Picture Menu at Friar’s Nook Naturally we wanted to try both of the new items: those Pub Tots and Brats and Tots! And before you ask whether this was an excessive amount of tots to consume in one sitting, the answer is no. There’s no such thing as too many tots. Brats and Tots The Pub Tots are basically tailor made for filling you up, as they are complete with a generous slathering of plastic cheese and a heaping pile of bacon bits! Not to mention that bowl is deceptively deep, and there are tons of tots in this dish! Pub Tots The bright green scallions are a nice touch to add some color and some freshness to the otherwise heavy tots. Pub Tots The perfect bite, of course, is a little bit of everything! And between the salty cheese, the smoky bacon, the fresh scallion, and the crisp tot, it’s actually a really nicely balanced savory bite! Close Up Cheese Action And FYI: tots here are deep-fried, not baked like the newbies over at Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land, so they’ve got a crispy exterior. We prefer this texture, although the baked ones are likely a little healthier. Crispy, Crunchy Tots! The second new item — Brats and Tots — is another hefty bite; certainly substantial enough for a meal (maybe even for two diners!). And there’s something our vegan and vegetarian readers will want to know: you can get this menu item with a plant-based protein brat, making it vegan-friendly! Brat and Tots The large brat comes topped with sauerkraut, giving this sandwich a unique (by Disney snack standards, anyway) kick! Brat and Tots The brat (we went with the meat option) is nicely cooked, with a slightly browned exterior that had a little snap to it. Brat with Kraut Inside was flavorful, carrying all the brat seasoning you expect. This was seriously meaty and heavy, making it potentially share-able. Brat Cross Section Bonus: it comes on a pretzel bun! We love this added touch, which goes perfectly with the Bavarian origins of the brat. Pretzel Bun Under the brat is a generous serving of tater tots. These are undressed — but you could ask for some cheese sauce on the side. Tots The Friar is still holding court as a counter service spot with unique, filling, satisfying eats. This place is always doing something new, and it — along with Sleepy Hollow and Golden Oak — are where I always look to see if there’s some interesting little food addition to explore. And with the addition of the brat, it seems to be broadening its horizons a bit (although we do miss the loaded mac and cheese options we used to get here!). We love unique theme park food — especially when there’s a new and interesting vegan option! — and that’s why you’ll find us queueing up here for something as hot and filling as a brat even in the heat of summer! Want to be sure you don’t miss any of the Disney food news? Sign up for the DFB Newsletter today and never miss a foodie beat! Which Friar’s Nook offering stokes your interest? Tell us in the comments Related posts: 21 Myths About Walt Disney World Food DEBUNKED Check Out Two NEW (But Nostalgic!) Treats at Disney World’s Magic Kingdom… Five Things You HAVE to Eat in Disney World’s Toy Story Land! View the full article

Now you can be treated like royalty while you dine in Animal Kingdom! Disney World just introduced all-new Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Packages at Tiffins. Tiffins This new Signature Dining Package includes a lunch or dinner at Tiffins, followed by VIP seating at the popular Festival of the Lion King show. Both lunch and dinner will include a choice of two tiers, appropriately named Tier I and Tier II. Both tiers include a three-course meal with a choice of wine, beer, or non-alcoholic drink followed by VIP seating for the Broadway-caliber Festival of the Lion King show. The menu for this event is seasonally-inspired and features unique dishes from around the world. Festival of the Lion King On the appetizer menu, you’ll find items such as Avocado-and-Tomato Salad, Spiced Chickpea Falafel, and Charred Octopus. Kamo Ramen For the main course, you’ll get to choose from a selection of entrées like Kamo Ramen (duck confit, soft-poached egg, spiced coconut broth, alba mushrooms, and chili-lime cashew); Shrimp and Grits (with Gulf white shrimp, Anson Mills grits, applewood smoked bacon, heirloom tomatoes, and smoked pepper jam); Surf and Turf (with grilled local beef tenderloin, butter poached lobster tail, Yukon gold potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and Cape Mountain Whiskey butter); or Fort McCoy Beef Tenderloin (with char-crusted beef tenderloin, loaded crushed potato, seasonal vegetables, bacon-sherry vinaigrette, and crispy shallots). Guava Mousse Dessert choices include the Guava Mousse, South American Ganache, or the Whipped Cheesecake and others to satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth. The Tier I and Tier II distinctions are: Tier I: Three-course meal (appetizer, entree, dessert, drink) at Tiffins VIP seating at Festival of the Lion King Commemorative cast photo Plus – a unique safari tour through the African outback, where over 34 distinct wildlife species seemingly roam free. Escorted by a special guide, you’ll ride through rugged terrain to see some of the world’s most exotic animals in their unique habitats. Tour guides will provide interesting information on the land and its residents for an expedition you’ll never forget! Tier II: Three-course meal (appetizer, entree, dessert, drink) at Tiffins VIP seating at Festival of the Lion King Commemorative cast photo As with other show dining packages, you will receive special vouchers during your meal for your priority seating to the Festival of the Lion King show. The Tier I Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Package is $99 per adult and $49 per children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuities not included). The Tier II Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Package is $74 per adult and $29 for children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuities not included). The Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Packages are available daily starting August 13 through November 21, 2018. Space will be limited – so be sure to book your experience in advance! Starting tomorrow (August 2), reservations can be made online at the Walt Disney World Resort website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (407 939-3463). All menu items and event experiences are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe! 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. Related posts: Disney World’s Animal Kingdom Menu UPDATES! What’s New To Eat?! News! Tiffins Restaurant Brings Signature Dining to Animal Kingdom in 2016 News: More Menu Details for Animal Kingdom’s Tiffins and Nomad Lounge View the full article

We were invited to take a sneak peek at the newest restaurant coming to Disney Springs… and that’s Chicken Guy! Chicken Guy! Opening Soon in Disney Springs In fact, Chicken Guy! is both the name of the restaurant and also a nod to one of the two people behind this new venture: celebrity chef Guy Fieri, who has partnered once again with restauranteur Robert Earl. Robert Earl at Chicken Guy! The two previously worked together when Guy Fieri created the Burger and Sandwich menu for Planet Hollywood Observatory. And, in fact, you’ll find Chicken Guy! tucked right in at Planet Hollywood. Chicken Guy! Though no official opening date has been announced, Disney Springs guests will see this new fast-casual spot open sometime this month. Chicken Guy! We were lucky enough to attend a sneak peek — and even sample some of the upcoming menu — at Chicken Guy! Let’s see what the Mayor of Flavortown himself and Robert Earl are busy preparing for the Town Center of Disney Springs! Guy Fieri’s newest restaurant is Chicken Guy! Atmosphere The Disney Springs location is set to be the flagship location for this new venture. Chicken Guy! Bright and vivid hues set a tone to match the high energy of the spot’s namesake. Chicken Guy! decor #realchickenguy Chicken Guy! Decor The fast-casual service style will allow guests to place their order on the line. Chicken Guy! And fresh ingredients will be at the ready! Food assembly area Guests will be notified by buzzer when their order is ready. Order Buzzers Then it’s off to take your pick of indoor or outdoor seating. Chicken Guy! Tables Of course, if you’d rather take your order to-go, everyone will see that your meal was created by The Boss of Sauce! Chicken Guy! To Go Packaging Let’s see what will be on offer! Eats Robert Earl walked us through the menu today, which focuses on serving Chicken Tenders (and more) in a fast-casual setting. Robert Earl at Chicken Guy! Guests will be able to choose between Grilled and Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders. Crispy Fried and Grilled Chicken Tenders The chicken here will be hand-pounded and the fried tenders will be freshly breaded each day. Crispy Fried Chicken Tenders And I have to say… I loved the super crispy outside of these fried tenders! Crispy Fried Chicken Tender And the option of the healthier-for-you grilled tender is something I’ve been hoping for at Disney World for years. Grilled Chicken Tender But there’s more to it. Because you’ll be able to choose two Signature Sauces for your Chicken Tenders… out of 22 Sauce Selections! To help you narrow it down a bit, the sauces are divided into categories, including Guy’ Favorites like Curry Mayo and Chipotle Ranch. Guy’s Favorite Sauces Signature Sauces The Classics feature Buffalo and Sweet and Sour among many others. Classic Sauces And Hot ‘N’ Spicy includes Habanero Hot Sauce and Nashville Hot Honey. Hot ‘N’ Spicy Sauces Signature Sauces Signature Sandwiches will be made with two chicken tenders. Sandwiches and Tenders Menu The Sauce Boss is anticipated to be a popular item due to the chance for customization with any two signature sauces. Sauce Boss Sandwich And after tasting it, I have to agree. For me, it was a standout. Sauce Boss Sandwich The Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Sandwich delivers a little sweetness to all that savory. Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Sandwich Bourbon Brown Sugar BBQ Sandwich Salad Bowls are also served with your choice of grilled or fried tenders. Salad Bowl Menu The Southwest Street Corn Salad Bowl serves it up with charred corn, slaw, roasted peppers, black beans, tomatoes, red onions, grilled scallions and crispy tortilla strips. Southwest Street Corn Salad Bowl But those salads get their sauce on, too, with cumin lime mojo and chipotle ranch for the Southwest Street Corn Salad. Tasty Sides to go along with whichever chicken you choose will include Mac Daddy Mac ‘N’ Cheese and Fried Pickle Chips. Tasty Sides Menu The Fried Pickles were another favorite of mine. They had a nice little kick to them! Fried Pickle Chips Loaded Fries are smothered in SMC (Super Melty Cheese!) and also topped with chopped grilled chicken, green onions, and oodles of BACON. Loaded Fries Any place that promotes Super Melty Cheese is pretty much right up my alley. Chicken Guy Fries with signature seasoning will also be available. Chicken Guy Fries The Kids’ Menu offers two tenders, grilled cheese, and Mac Daddy Mac ‘N’ Cheese. Kids’ Menu Flavortown Frozen Treats are… well, just take a look! Triple Double Mint Frozen Treat Your options will be Triple Double Mint and Cinnamon Apple. Flavortown Frozen Treat Menu Triple Double Mint blends mint chocolate soft serve with crushed Oreos, chocolate mints, chocolate syrup, and tops it all with whipped cream. Triple Double Mint Flavortown Frozen Treat Cinnamon Apple is vanilla soft-serve with Cinnamon Toast Crunch and Apple Jacks cereals, also with whipped cream! Cinnamon Apple Flavortown Frozen Treat Cinnamon Apple Frozen Treat Something Robert Earl shared is that the emphasis is on quality and price. The menu and prices were designed to make it difficult for the average guest to spend more than $12-13 without sacrificing quality. And I really do think the portions and great flavors are a good value at these price points. It is still being determined whether Chicken Guy! will accept the Disney Dining Plan. (This is not unusual for non-Disney owned restaurants in the beginning as they work out contracts for new spots, and we’ll let you know here when that is determined.) Overall It was a lot of fun to check out Chicken Guy! before it opens. It was even better to taste the upcoming offerings, which give us reason to think that Disney Springs guests have a lot to look forward to when Chicken Guy! officially opens its doors sometime this month. Are you looking forward to this new addition? We’d love to hear what you think! 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! Disclosure: In nearly all circumstances, Disney Food Blog writers and photographers pay full price for their own travel, hotel, food, beverage, and event tickets. We do this because it’s important to us as journalists to ensure not only that we give you unbiased opinions, but also that you can trust us to do so since we’re paying our own way. On rare occasions, when we are invited by a company to attend a preview as media, and when we choose to accept that invitation, we will always make you, our readers, aware of that situation. We were invited by Chicken Guy! to experience the new location. Note that when we attend events as media we are 1) Not required to review that event/food on any of our channels, and 2) Not required to review that event/food favorably. You can always count on DFB to give you a 100% unbiased and honest review of any event that we attend, food that we eat, or beverage that we drink. You can see more in our Disclosure Policy. Thank you for reading. — AJ Related posts: BREAKING! Flagship Chicken Guy! Restaurant to Open at Disney Springs! News: The Polite Pig Set to Open Monday, April 10th in Disney Springs Vino Gone Viral: Wine Slushies Debut at Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs View the full article

Disney Parks Moms Panel | Holidays at the Magic Kingdom Park View the full article

Disney Parks Moms Panel | Holiday Favorites Across the Walt Disney World Resort View the full article

This past weekend, Disney’s Animals, Science and Environment and the Sea Turtle Conservancy hosted the 11th annual Tour de Turtles at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, which saw two loggerhead turtles take off on an adventure into the big blue world. With festivities themed to “Toy Story” to celebrate the opening of Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this fun, family-friendly educational event promotes sea turtle care and conservation. The “Toy Story” theme also inspired the two turtles’ names, Trixie and Mrs. Potato Head. There were lots of pals along the shoreline for the turtles’ grand send-off, cheering them on as they made their way into the ocean, the beginning of a three-month long journey from their nesting beach to their foraging grounds. The turtles were outfitted with satellite transmitters to track their journey in real time. So, what’s next for Trixie and Mrs. Potato Head? They could stay near the coast if they’re planning to lay more eggs, or they could take off to some of the places our turtles have traveled to in the past, including Naples, Fla., Key West, Cuba and The Bahamas. Part of the fun of Tour de Turtles is trying to guess where the turtles will go next on their great migration. We’ve followed all of the turtles we’ve released as part of Tour de Turtles during the last 11 years at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, and each has traveled an average of 1,300 miles. Loggerhead turtles are a threatened species, which means they are at risk of becoming endangered or extinct. As home to one of the most active sea turtle nesting sites in Florida, Disney’s Vero Beach Resort takes great care to protect these animals, and even has a dedicated conservation team on site. In addition, Disney is helping support cleaner nesting beaches and oceans for sea turtles through its conservation efforts and environmental actions. The company just announced a global commitment toward reducing its use of plastics, a move that we hope will inspire our Guests to make changes that positively impact sea turtles and other marine life. You can follow Trixie and Mrs. Potato Head’s progress by visiting tourdeturtles.org. There, these Disney turtles will join other sea turtles in a race to see who travels the farthest. You also can relive the fun of the Tour de Turtles event by watching a rebroadcast of the livestream. View the full article

The first-ever Pixar Fest is happening now until Sept. 3 at the Disneyland Resort. With just a few weeks left to celebrate friendship and beyond, now is the time to visit and enjoy your favorite Pixar stories and characters. Watch the video below to see Disneyland Resort cast members weigh in on their top picks from Pixar Fest! Check out my story for six things not to miss during Pixar Fest. View the full article

You know… there are places that just surprise you with new eats time and time again in Disney World. And one of those places is located in Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland. Golden Oak Outpost We were just at Golden Oak Outpost to try the recently added Jalapeño Poppers and Fried Cauliflower to the menu here. And now? We’re already back to check out a couple of brand new milk shakes at this ever-changing spot! But they’re not just your basic chocolate or vanilla. Golden Oak Outpost Menu Nope! We’re trying the Dulce de Leche and Rocky Road Milk Shakes now up for grabs! Dulce de Leche and Rocky Road Milk Shakes The Dulce de Leche Milk Shake is made of Dulce de Leche ice cream topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce, and garnished with candied bacon. Dulce de Leche Milk Shake The Rocky Road Milk Shake takes Rocky Road ice cream and also tops it with whipped cream. Rocky Road Milk Shake But cocoa powder and a toasted marshmallow are the add-ons with this one. Rocky Road Milk Shake Here’s what they share in common: both milkshakes are pre-spun, so they come right out of the freezer, then the toppings are placed on to order. While you can pick up on a difference in consistency between these versus a freshly made milk shake, the bonus is that they stay cold for a lot longer (which is much appreciated in the current August temps). Dulce de Leche and Rocky Road Milk Shakes At $6.99, both are a little spendy. But fortunately, they are also quite yummy! But the differences lie here: the Rocky Road Milk Shake was definitely tasty, but I didn’t pick up on a ton of rocky road flavor — mostly just chocolate with the fun addition of a toasted marshmallow. Rocky Road Milk Shake The Dulce de Leche, on the other hand, was more interesting with a more distinct flavor other than just the caramel. So it was my favorite of the two. Dulce de Leche Milk Shake Plus… BACON. So, there you have it! Just a couple of the new ways you can currently cool down in Magic Kingdom as we ring in another hot August in Orlando! 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! Find ALL the fun places to eat in Frontierland in our DFB YouTube Video! Will you be grabbing one of the new Milk Shakes at Golden Oak Outpost? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Unique Slushy at the Golden Oak Outpost in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom DFB Video: Magic Kingdom’s Frontierland Food Tour! NEW: Jalapeno Poppers and Fried Cauliflower Debut On The Menu In Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

Get ready to receive the royal treatment at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with two all-new Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Packages! Simba and his friends are inviting you to join in the festivities with a delicious meal at Tiffins Restaurant followed by special VIP seating at one of the most popular shows at Walt Disney World Resort. For both dining packages (Tier I and Tier II), savor a delectable lunch or dinner at Tiffins Restaurant on Discovery Island. Here, you’ll enjoy a world-class three-course meal that includes one appetizer, one entrée, one dessert, and your choice of wine, beer, or a non-alcoholic beverage. This seasonally-inspired menu features unique dishes from around the world. On the appetizer menu, you’ll find items such as Avocado-and-Tomato Salad, Spiced Chickpea Falafel, and Charred Octopus that serve as a grand way to kick off your feast! And for the main course, you’ll get to choose from a selection of mouthwatering entrées like Kamo Ramen (duck confit, soft-poached egg, spiced coconut broth, alba mushrooms, and chili-lime cashew), Shrimp and Grits (with Gulf white shrimp, Anson Mills grits, applewood smoked bacon, heirloom tomatoes, and smoked pepper jam), Surf and Turf (with grilled local beef tenderloin, butter poached lobster tail, Yukon gold potatoes, seasonal vegetables, and Cape Mountain Whiskey butter), or Fort McCoy Beef Tenderloin (with char-crusted beef tenderloin, loaded crushed potato, seasonal vegetables, bacon-sherry vinaigrette, and crispy shallots). Of course, you’ll have to save some room for a decadent dessert. Try the Guava Mousse, South American Ganache, or the Whipped Cheesecake among other sweet dishes sure to make everyone in the family a happy camper! Along with your meal, you’ll receive special vouchers for priority reserved VIP seating at Festival of the Lion King, a Broadway-style show filled with pageantry, puppetry, and popular songs from the film. You’ll even receive a commemorative cast photo that captures the moment forever. With the Tier I dining package, you’ll get to continue the fun with a unique safari tour through the African outback, where over 34 distinct wildlife species seemingly roam free. Escorted by a special guide, you’ll ride through rugged terrain to see some of the world’s most exotic animals in their unique habitats. Tour guides will provide interesting information on the land and its residents for an expedition you’ll never forget! The Tier I Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Package (which includes lunch or dinner at Tiffins Restaurant, priority VIP seating at Festival of the Lion King, and a safari tour) is $99 per adult and $49 per children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuities not included). The Tier II Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Package (which includes lunch or dinner at Tiffins Restaurant and priority reserved seating at Festival of the Lion King) is $74 per adult and $29 for children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuities not included). The Festival of the Lion King Signature Dining Packages are available daily starting August 13 through November 21, 2018. Space is limited – so be sure to book your experience in advance! Starting tomorrow (August 2), reservations can be made online at the Walt Disney World Resort website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE (407 939-3463). All menu items and event experiences are subject to change or cancellation without notice. View the full article

Reedy Creek’s former human resources manager who was terminated in January has filed a lawsuit against Walt Disney World’s government. Tracy Schrey is seeking more than $15,000 in damages in her suit filed last month in Orange Circuit Court, saying she was unjustly fired. The Reedy Creek Improvement... View the full article

Hi, there! Or perhaps I should say “Aloha!” Because we’re back with another DFB Video, and today we’re taking you on a Food Tour of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! Say Aloha to Mickey and Friends at ‘Ohana for Breakfast Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a beautiful Deluxe Resort located right on the Magic Kingdom’s Monorail Loop. And it is positively packed with some terrific restaurants, snacks, and lounges the likes of which you won’t find elsewhere in Disney World. We’re going to show ALL of them to you as we take a Food Tour of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort 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: Where is your favorite place to eat at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort? Related posts: DFB Video: Top 5 Disney World Resorts for FOOD! DFB Video: How to Master the Disney Dining Plan DFB Video: Disney World Food Tour of EVERY Restaurant in Fantasyland! View the full article

Need to help your keiki get ready to start an epic adventure, celebrate a milestone, or swim off on their own island journey at the Waikolohe pool? Come visit the newly designed Painted Sky: HI Style Studio, at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, for a magical makeover! Starting today boys and girls ages 3-12 can choose from a variety of packages, which include hairstyling, makeup, costumes and accessories – all infused with hints of Hawaii and a playful sense of Disney fun. Your keiki can transform into a mermaid, or dress for an adventure across Oʻahu, or even style in the fashion of their favorite wayfinding adventurer Moana of Montunui, who happens to drop by just outside the studio from time to time to say hello. There’s even a touch of Māui here, too, as the winding river rock floor path forms the shape of a hook! Painted Sky: HI Style Studio is located in the Waiʻanae Tower, just outside of Laniwai Spa. This relaxed-yet-sophisticated luxurious new studio embraces the Hawaiian connection to nature and explores the cultural significance of the rainbows that so frequently grace the Hawaiian skyline. There is even a rainbow inside the studio through a special touch of magic! Rainbows are seen as a blessing from the heavens, and now Painted Sky has its own good-omen constantly gracing the studio. Reservations are highly recommended, and can be made by visiting disneyaulani.com or calling (808) 674-6300. Listen closely as you enter the studio and you may hear the lovely sound of an ‘ukulele strumming a familiar tune. You may even find yourself humming along—something about a line where the sky meets the sea, maybe? View the full article

A brand new dining experience has just made its debut at Pizzafari! Learn About: Pizzafari Animal Kingdom Disney World Restaurants Plzzafari is a Counter Service restaurant in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Located on Discovery Island, this spot is best known for its unique and colorful atmosphere, as well as its primary food item as highlighted in the name: PIZZA. It’s always operated the same way you’d expect at any Counter Service location: place your order and pay at the register; pick up your food at a counter; then bring it all to whatever table you manage to find, depending on how busy it is in the moment. But now — from 5:00 – 8:00 PM daily — a new service style is available. Though daytime will continue to offer the typical Counter Service experience, the evenings now ALSO present Pizzafari Family-Style Dining! Let’s see how this works… Pizzafari Sign Atmosphere Now, if you’ve ever paid a visit to Pizzafari, things will look quite similar at first. In fact, the typical counter service operations also still take place in the evening, so guests seeking the regular meals here still have that option. Pizzafari Menu Posted Outside Outside, you’ll may notice the small update to the posted menu informing about the new Family-Style Dining available in the evenings. Pizzafari Menu Posted Outside Though not necessarily required (based on availability), guests can make Advance Dining Reservations for Family-Style Dining. Upon arrival at Pizzafari, guests opting for Family-Style will check in at a marked podium located in the corner of the ordering area. Check-in Podium There, guests are provided with a Table Number. Table Number Next, it’s over to the designated cashier (on the far left of the ordering area) to place your drink order and pay for your meal. Family-Style Dining Cashier Similar to regular Counter Service, you head to the food counter to pick up your own first course and drinks. Picking up Salads and Drink Then it’s off to find the table, where you’ll be seated in one of two dining rooms which have been specifically designated for this experience! We were seated in the Nocturnal Room. Nocturnal Room However, when there are more guests taking part, the Take Your Home Room will also be used for Family-Style Dining. Take Your Home Room In fact, one really cool part of the evening was a visit from a Cast Member who spoke to us all and shared about the room and the artwork! (Did you know the artist who painted these gorgeous rooms worked on Peter Pan and The Jungle Book?) Pizzafari Cast Member It’s hard to resist the chance to check things out no matter where you’re seated, because the painted murals surrounding you throughout the restaurant really do deserve a good look. See more of the artwork here! Before the Cast Member’s visit, though, we took our seats at our table. Each one is set with rolled silverware and plates. Table Setting Table Setting You can grab items according to your preference from the condiment station, as per usual. Condiment Station Grated Parmesan, Crushed Red Pepper, and Salt and Pepper Once you’re all set up, the second course is delivered to you via a cart, as the third is later. Delivery Cart But I’m getting ahead of myself… because I bet you’d like to know what’s coming on those carts, so let’s dig in! Eats For the set price of $19.99 for adults and $11.99 for guests ages 3-9 (or one Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan), guests receive every food item listed on the menu. Pizzafari Family-Style Dining Menu Notice I said “food” . Though non-alcoholic beverages ARE included, beer and wine are an additional purchase. (The exception: of-age guests on the Disney Dining Plan are able to receive an alcoholic beverage with their meal if they wish, since those are now included on the Plan.) Beverage Menu As for the food, though, it starts with the two appetizers picked up at the food counter: a Caprese Salad and a Caesar Salad. Caprese Salad Caesar Salad The Caesar Salad is pretty much as expected: romaine, parmesan cheese, croutons, and Caesar dressing (but not too much of it, which I’ve always appreciated here with the side Caesar salads on the regular menu). Fresh and just fine, but nothing remarkable. Caesar Salad The Caprese Salad, though… Caprese Salad What a nice change of pace! The fresh tomatoes and rich mozzarella drizzled with balsamic is simple, but delicious. It’s all pre-cut, which also makes table sharing easier for families. Guests receive not one, but all three entrees! These include a Baked Ziti pasta, with a meat sauce that makes this dish especially hearty. Baked Ziti Though we knew the menu would feature a chicken dish, we now know that it’s Fettuccine Alfredo with Chicken! Fettuccine Alfredo ANOTHER rich, decadent entree, in some part due to the protein from the chicken. Fettuccine Alfredo Personally, I could have happily had some more alfredo sauce on those noodles… because is there ever such a thing as too much alfredo sauce? Nope. Still, it’s another pretty solid offering. By this time, things were stacking up pretty well for the new experience. But if you’re like me, you are probably most curious about the Pepperoni Pizza. Would the star entree be any different from the less-than-spectacular pizza typically served not only at Pizzafari, but at Counter Service pizza locations all across the parks? Pizza In a word… YES!! Pizza The cheese? Plentiful. The toppings? They cover almost the entire pie, unlike the usual Disney counter service pizza where it’s almost half crust. My pepperoni was even somewhat crisp! Pizza Slice Will it rival your favorite New York slice? No, of course not. But, truly, I was surprised to find that it was definitely an improvement over the usual Counter Service deal. And, if you still have room (which, thankfully, we always do!)… Miniature Cannolis are the final component of the meal. Miniature Cannolis These weren’t filled with the most decadent mascarpone cream ever, but the crispy, golden shells were totally on point. Mini Cannolis Plus, they’re simply fun! I love that each member of the family gets their own cannoli (or two…). Which brings me to my next point: I noticed families of four receiving bigger pizzas, and larger pasta portions, too. So, know that the serving sizes are provided with the size of the party in mind. Case in point: a nearby family of five (2 adults, 3 children) noted that they only thing they wish they had more of was the pizza. Otherwise, they were satisfied. Complete Meal Speaking of… let’s say you want more of a particular item. You can pay one price for more of that item for your group (as opposed to being charged per person — you’re charged per item). The price depends on the item (for instance, an additional family-size pizza would be $12.00 extra). More pasta? You’re looking at $8.00. And that’s how Family-Style Dining at Pizzafari works! So… what did we think of this new experience? Nosh or Not: You may want to try Pizzafari Family-Style Dining if: You want to totally maximize your Counter Service credit from a financial perspective, since the $19.99 price tag will definitely do that for you. You kind of love the idea of not taking individual orders for your family for a Counter Service meal — it’s all decided for you and the kiddos! You enjoy the unique setting of Pizzafari, but haven’t been intrigued by the offerings in the past and want to try something new. You may want to pass on Pizzafari Family-Style Dining if: If you’re paying out-of-pocket, you’d rather put $20.00 towards a meal at a Table Service restaurant. You aren’t interested in being tied to an Advance Dining Reservation time for a Counter Service meal. Overall You know… I am pleasantly surprised by Pizzafari Family-Style Dining. The food is taken up a notch or two from the regular service, and small touches like the visit from the Cast Member and table settings offer nice touches to the experience. If you’re on the Disney Dining Plan, it’s similar to breakfast at Be Our Guest Restaurant in that — if the menu appeals to you — it’s almost a no-brainer in terms of maximizing your Quick Service credit. For those paying out-of-pocket, there is more to consider. But many Counter Service entrees alone can range around $11-12 (and in some cases closer to $14), and that doesn’t include a beverage, dessert, salads, etc… so, that’s something to think about, too. I’ve long enjoyed the atmosphere of Pizzafari and have wanted to spend more time immersed in the colorful, unique ambience. But the regular Counter Service offerings just weren’t enough to lure me in too often. So I’m glad to say that this was a positive experience in regards to both setting and food. Disney did not indicate whether Family-Style Dine would be a permanent addition to Pizzafari, so we’ll be curious to see what happens from here. (At time of publishing, reservations only come up through the end of October.) In the meantime, if you give Pizzafari Family-Style Dine a try, please let us know what you think! 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! Pizzafari is located in Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island. Take a full Food Tour of the area in our DFB YouTube Video! Would you like to try Pizzafari Family-Style Dining? Please let us know with a comment! Related posts: Review: New Menu Items at Animal Kingdom’s Pizzafari! What’s New at Disney World’s Animal Kingdom: April 3, 2018 Party for the Planet Eats And More for Animal Kingdom’s 20th Anniversary Celebration View the full article

We all know that vacationing with toddlers can be un poquito aterrador. And I’m sure you’ve heard that there’s no perfect age to visit Walt Disney World Resort, y es cierto! At Disney theme parks there’s something for every age, and we’re going to help you plan that perfect trip with these quick tips to make your vacation inolvidable. 1. Plan Ahead ¡Rutina, rutina, rutina! If you have a pequeñito at home, you know that having a schedule is one of the most helpful tools. My Disney Experience App on your smart phone is a great tool to make the most out of your trip while keeping your toddler feliz and on schedule. The app will help keep the locations of those important places handy. Need to run to a restroom? Done! Check attraction wait times, show times, and the closest eateries for those last minute snacks. 2. Create a Wish List A list of your toddlers’ favorite characters, rides, or activities is a great way to make the most out of your visit. Select activities that are at the same location or close to each other to avoid long walks. 3. Family Time Traveling with toddlers means everyone will enjoy shows and attractions where the adult may feel a bit too tall, pero no importa! Select those attractions where toda la familia can hop on, like Mad Tea Party, The Magic Carpets of Aladdin, Dumbo the Flying Elephant at Magic Kingdom, and of course, Alien Swirling Saucers at the newly opened Toy Story Land! 4. Cool Down While outdoors activities are always an excellent recommendation, a fun indoor attraction can help you and your toddler stay cool while todos se divierten. Disney Junior – Live on Stage at Disney’s Hollywood Studios has all the dancing and singing your toddler needs. The classic and colorful “it’s a small world” attraction at Magic Kingdom would have your toddler singing por muchos días! The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot is an ideal combination of exhibits and rides perfect for that edad pre-escolar. 5. Nap Time? Nothing better than enjoying a nap after a busy day of playing in the sun, verdad? Not all toddlers will agree with that, but after splashing and running around at the Casey Jr. Splash ‘N’ Soak Station at Magic Kingdom, that nap would be welcomed! Ketchakiddee Creek at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park is another must-visit attraction to enjoy with 10 different aquatic activities perfectas para tus pequeñitos! Don’t forget to share your most helpful tips to enjoy Walt Disney World Resort with your toddlers in the comments below y a divertirse! View the full article

Walt Disney World doesn’t offer a behind-the-scenes tour of Epcot cranes … yet (my working title: The Wonderful World of Rebuilding Epcot Experience). But it may not be needed because we can all see bits of the construction of the future from many positions within the theme park already. I spy... View the full article

Disney put its service to the test over the weekend, rolling out a three-course prix-fixe dinner menu at Be Our Guest Restaurant that has replaced the previous a la carte menu. There will be no more references to the song in this mini-review, promise. The popular French restaurant themed after... View the full article

All aboard, Disney Parks Blog readers! In honor of Disneyland celebrating 63 years earlier this month, we will be departing on a grand circle tour to explore the Disneyland Railroad. As an opening day attraction and one of Walt Disney’s personal favorites, this iconic experience is full of rich historical details and beautiful sights. Let’s take a closer look! As guests first enter Disneyland park for the day, their first sight is the elegant, Victorian-style Main Street Station. The station is framed with a centered sign including both the elevation of 138 feet above sea level and the population of Disneyland, which is updated periodically to reflect the number of guests who have visited the park since it opened in 1955. Also, in front of the station is the Kalamazoo handcar, which sits on the former passing track. A fixture in the park since 1958, the handcar was a unique addition to Walt’s collection! Stepping into Main Street Station, guests are treated to period details, railroad memorabilia and photos demonstrating Walt’s love of railroads. In the center of the depot, you can view a reproduction of Walt’s original Carolwood Pacific locomotive, the Lilly Belle. The original 1/8-scale “live steamer” was named for his wife, Lillian Disney, and was the main engine for the half-mile track around his family’s home in Holmby Hills. When boarding your train, be sure to keep an eye out for which engine will be taking you on your journey. Each of the five steam engines on this historic line has its own personality and story—some which date back to 1895! My personal favorite is Engine No. 5 – the Ward Kimball. This train is unique in that it was named not only for a railroad icon, but also for an icon of The Walt Disney Company. Disney Legend Ward Kimball was an animator, one of Walt Disney’s “Nine Old Men,” and a railroad enthusiast, whose passion for the hobby helped inspire Walt’s own love of trains and railroading. If you look hard, you may see the silhouette of a familiar cricket painted somewhere near the front of the engine, displayed in homage to one of his most beloved characters! After leaving Main Street Station, the first stop on the Disneyland Railroad is New Orleans Square/Frontierland Station. The station features a number of buildings, including a functional water tower and a loading platform. Across the tracks from the loading station is the original Frontierland depot that existed before New Orleans Square was built. The inspiration for the original Frontierland station was the wooden depot featured in the 1949 Disney live action film, “So Dear To My Heart.” Walt Disney initially wanted to re-use the actual set piece that had been built for the film, but when he learned that his friend and fellow animator Ward Kimball had already modified it into a fully functioning building for his personal Grizzly Flats Railroad—thus making it difficult to move—Walt asked his designers to build a new one just like it. Continuing along the Rivers of America, guests can take in the landscapes inspired by four of America’s majestic rivers—the Mississippi, the Columbia, the Missouri and the Rio Grande. The trains travel across the rocks on a trestle that extends out over the water, passing waterfalls, wildlife and some familiar sights of the old west. If you keep an eye out, you may even be able to see some familiar logos from a ranch that once was located around these parts. If you’ve ever thought Mickey’s Toontown Train Depot looks familiar, there’s a reason! The station is a cartoon version inspired by the original Frontierland Station. It has the same basic design with a similar roof style and a small fenced-in section for luggage and other freight. The luggage area is especially fun and colorful with humorous suitcases and crates, including one suitcase with a sock hanging out of the top and another with dog bones popping out of the sides. Before returning to Main Street Station, the Disneyland Railroad makes one more stop in Tomorrowland to drop off guests in the future before heading back into the past! As you pass through the 306-foot-long Grand Canyon Diorama, be sure to keep an eye out for landscaping, ancient ruins and various examples of indigenous wildlife. As the trains move past the Grand Canyon Diorama, they make their way to another diorama, this one taking guests to the mysterious Primeval World. The Primeval World Diorama and Audio-Animatronics dinosaurs were originally designed and built by Disney for the 1964-1965 New York World’s Fair and were added in 1966 to enhance the Disneyland Railroad experience. Hope you enjoyed riding the rails with us today! To take a look closer at other Disneyland Resort experiences, check out these stories: Look Closer: Grizzly River Run at Disney California Adventure Park Look Closer: Lamplight Lounge in Pixar Pier at Disney California Adventure Park Look Closer: Matterhorn Bobsleds at Disneyland Park Look Closer: Indiana Jones Adventure at Disneyland Park Look Closer: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad at Disneyland Park Look Closer: Toy Story Midway Mania! at Disney California Adventure Park View the full article

BREAKING!! The 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival FULL Booth Menus are now available! Click here to see the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Menus and Start Planning! While we anxiously await August 30th — the first day of the Food and Wine Festival — let’s take some time right now to check out some brand new Food Booths and items for 2018! Be sure to click on our individual pages from our Main Menu Page for each booth to see food photos of most of the dishes! New! 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booths and Menu Items Once again this year, the Food Booths expand into Future World and even the Festival Center in addition to, of course, World Showcase. Enjoy more than 30 different booths in all! NEW In 2018: Shimmering Sips Mimosa Bar and More The new Shimmering Sips Mimosa Bar will feature of variety of Mimosas with options such as a Key Lime Mimosa, a Tropical Mimosa, a Blood Orange Mimosa, and more! Mimosa Flight ©Disney But there won’t simply be sipping at Shimmering Sips… an array of pastries such as Chocolate and Almond Croissants and Cheese Danish will be available, too, to enjoy with your mimosa of choice! Interestingly, this booth will also have a “Frozen Apple Pie,” which reminds us of the slushy of the same name at the Poland Booth a couple of years ago! Frozen Apple Pie This time it will be non-alcoholic, though! The kiddos will love it! Also new this year, they’re turning Taste Track into a booth (find some yummy specialty cronuts here!), and the Craft Beers booth seems to have turned into Craft Drafts this year! Returning Booths — With Some Surprises! Of course, there are several returning favorites we can never resist. Be sure to arrive early before the lines get to long at the Canada booth and the Ireland booth, which is sure to have even LONGER lines this year thanks to the NEW Guinness Baileys Shake on the menu!! 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival: Ireland Booth Of course, the fan favorite Kalua Pork Slider returns to the Hawai’i booth for the 2018 Festival. The Kalua Pork Slider from the Hawai’i Booth is a Favorite Want to see if your favorite booth or dish are returning this year? Head over to our 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth Menus and Photos page to see the full booth menus! We hope you’ll take time to click through each individual booth page to see pictures of the actual booths themselves, what’s on the menu, and actual food photos from the upcoming event! Also, don’t forget to check out our other 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Coverage; we work hard to make sure we have the most comprehensive coverage of the festival on the internet! Ready to Plan for Your 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Trip? Pre-Order the DFB Guide to the 2018 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book today and start planning now! This 250+-page guide to the Festival offers insider tips and advice as well as all of the details you need to know to plan your best Festival visit ever. Your purchase includes several bonus items as well — including a full daily schedule of events at the Festival and a printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist to carry with you as you Eat around the World! Pre-Order your 2018 edition today! Don’t miss a moment of the fun! Use code Chefs at check-out for a 20% off the cover price! Be sure to check our main Epcot Food and Wine Festival Page frequently for updates, and also check out our DFB YouTube video for even more information about the festival! Want More Epcot Food and Wine Festival Info? We’ll have all the coverage and information you need right here on Disney Food Blog! Here’s what we know so far… 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Index 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booth and Menu Index 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Special Events 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Low-Cost Seminars and Demonstrations 2018 Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Epcot Food and Wine Festival Fans Facebook Page 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Wine and Dine Half Marathon 2018 Swan and Dolphin Food and Wine Classic Food and Wine Festival 101 2017 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Gluten Free Items How to Book Epcot Food & Wine Festival Events To book all special events and demonstrations, call 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Culinary Demonstrations and Beverage Seminars and general admission for some special events may be bookable online at www.epcotfoodfestival.com as well as by phone. Tables in Wonderland members, Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members, and Golden Oak Residents are eligible for a $2 discount (per person, per event) for beverage and seminars and culinary demos taking place Mon-Thurs during the festival. Discounts are by phone only at 407-WDW-FEST (939-3378). Stay tuned to DisneyFoodBlog.com and the Disney Food Blog Newsletter for details. Because Chase is no longer a Festival Sponsor, Chase Disney Visa Cardholders have no access to early booking this year. Which booths are you excited to try out during the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival? Tell us your thoughts in comments below! Related posts: New Milkshake May Debut at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival in Disney World 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Concert Schedule Announced Festival Center Updates for the 2018 Epcot Food and Wine Festival! View the full article

Checking in to the Hollywood Tower Hotel? If you’re looking for a special keepsake to mark your… memorable stay, our spirited friends at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are now offering an 8-inch by 10-inch lenticular print showing you entering the Twilight Zone! If you’re hesitant about discovering what lies beyond the darkest corner of the imagination alone, you can have other souls join you in this photo. This product is only available at Tower Photo near the exit of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, so drop by today to purchase yours for $19.95 + tax. The Twilight Zone® is a registered trademark of CBS, Inc. and used with permission pursuant to a license with CBS, Inc. Photos taken as part of this experience are not captured by Disney PhotoPass photographers and cannot be linked to a Disney PhotoPass account or downloaded as part of an active Memory Maker entitlement. View the full article

Start making your foodie plan of attack by perusing the newly released menus for this year’s Epcot International Food and Wine Festival. The event will be held from Aug. 30-Nov. 12. Park admission is required. This year’s festival doesn’t have as many new marketplaces as last year: the Shimmering... View the full article

I'll be upset if this makes its way to DVC

Walt Disney World appears to be making a pilot program to allow dogs in some of its hotels a permanent offering, a Disney blogger is reporting. The policy will become permanent in October at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and... View the full article

Hopefully you’ve had a chance to check out the “incredible” new float in “Paint the Night” parade at Disney California Adventure park. The Parr family and their pal Frozone appear in this electrifying parade, bringing all of the fun and excitement of “The Incredibles” to life with high-tech, pop-art effects. While this innovative float was being built, we had a chance to document it along the way. The video below shows the progression of the float over several months, along with some super fun facts. Here are a few more incredibly impressive fun facts: The “art wall” around the rear base of the float uses 134 fixtures, all exactly nine inches apart to create the “sine wave” curve effect. 123 individual LED Panels make up the 13 buildings; only 2 of these are exactly the same size and shape. The penthouse floor of of one of the buildings has 112 individual windows, each with its own miniature LED light source. Nearly 200 individually programmable lights are embedded in the buildings, The Underminer’s drill and Frozone’s ice trail. View the full article