Disney4me

BIG menu changes have come to the little Friar’s Nook in Magic Kingdom! Friar’s Nook Sign Previously home to over-the-top Macaroni and Cheese dishes, the Friar has traded Loaded Mac for Loaded TOTS! Friar’s Nook The new menu of Loaded Tater Tots features Loaded Buffalo Chicken Tots, Loaded Greek Tots, and Loaded Fiesta Tots. Friar’s Nook Menu Screenshot on Disney World website And to follow up a round of Tots? How about that Fried Twinkie?!? I don’t know about you, but we can’t wait to get there and try these news eats! But in the meantime, we couldn’t wait to pass the news on to you, either! And by the way, if you’re among those saddened over the loss of the Mac and Cheese dishes, you may want to get a load of the new Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Pulled Pork we just found over in Animal Kingdom! See you at the Nook! Will you be loading up on Loaded Tots? 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: Blue Cheese Macaroni and Cheese with Balsamic at Friar’s Nook News and Review! Bacon Cheeseburger Mac & Cheese at Friar’s Nook in Disney World Review: Pot Roast Macaroni and Cheese at Friar’s Nook in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

Hello Disney Cruise Line fans! I am honored to be one of the newest Disney Parks Blog authors and very excited to share my first post from onboard the Disney Magic. Today we set sail from New York City on what is sure to be a voyage of epic proportions… an 8-night cruise to the Bahamas featuring our first-ever Marvel Day at Sea! The excitement here is high as guests (and crew) look forward to the action-packed day when the Marvel Universe will assemble on the ship. As Cruise Director, I’ll be giving you an inside look at all the fun. If you’re joining us for Marvel Day at Sea – on either this first voyage or one of our other special voyages from New York or Miami – be sure to show your excitement by posting your own photos and videos online with #MarvelDayatSea. Marvel Day at Sea takes place on one epic day during each of the special Disney Magic sailings. Here are just some of the highlights of what’s to come: The largest collection of Marvel Super Heroes and Super Villains ever assembled on a cruise ship The debut of Black Panther and Loki as part of a Disney vacation experience The first official appearance of Iron Man, Star-Lord, Gamora and Groot on a Disney ship Opportunities for heroic encounters with more than a dozen legendary Marvel characters Exclusive at-sea screenings of fan-favorite films from the Marvel Cinematic Universe Immersive activities for young heroes-in-training at Marvel’s Avengers Academy An interactive show with Doctor Strange in the Walt Disney Theatre A deck show spectacular featuring incredible stunts, special effects and pyrotechnics An after-hours party just for adults in the nightclub turned into a Ravager hideout Marvel Day at Sea premieres on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018. Keep following along on the Disney Parks Blog as we unveil more details, and take a look back at past posts to get up to speed on this unforgettable day at sea: Insiders Look at Marvel Day at Sea with Stan Lee Powerful New Doctor Strange Show Revealed for Marvel Day at Sea More Family Fun Revealed for Marvel Day at Sea Cruises Debuting from New York City This Fall First Look at the Full Roster of Marvel Super Heroes to Assemble on Disney Cruise Line Meet ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Super Heroes on Marvel Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line Seven Things You Won’t Want to Miss During Marvel Day at Sea Five Epic Experiences During Marvel Day at Sea Stan Lee Assembles Super Heroes for Marvel Day at Sea View the full article

Walt Disney World visitors can absorb art and information related to Dia de Muertos in a gallery exhibit recently added to Epcot’s Mexico pavilion. “Remember Me! La Celebracion del Dia de Muertos” features works by Mexican and Mexican-American artists and is set up inside the park’s pyramid, near... View the full article

Happy Oktoberfest from Central Florida! There are TWO ways you can celebrate Oktoberfest in Disney Springs for a limited time. For instance… ©Disney Oktoberfest Poutine, anyone? At The Daily Poutine, you can find those thick cut fries topped with crumbled bratwurst, cheese curds, and a stout beer gravy. And just down the way (still in the Marketplace) at B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. you can find a straight up Bratwurst and Spaetzel. ©Disney Of course, what could go better with Oktoberfest dishes than BEER? ©Disney Well, soon there will be even more beer choices in Disney Springs, as a Disney Springs rotating seasonal selection will be on tap soon, “in partnership with a local craft brewery,” according to Disney. Can I get a “Prost!”? Are you tempted by Oktoberfest eats? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: New! Cheeseburger Poutine at The Daily Poutine in Disney Springs Spotted: Holiday Turkey Poutine at Disney Springs’ The Daily Poutine Review: All-Day Breakfast Poutine at The Daily Poutine in Disney Springs View the full article

One of the highlights of the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival is our “What’s Cookin’ With,” featuring celebrity chefs from around the country. This weekend features one of our favorites – Iron Chef Geoffrey Zakarian. An accomplished chef, host and culinary consultant, Zakarian has presided over some of the country’s top kitchens, traveling the world for new inspiration to marry with his classical training and techniques in a lifelong effort to deliver paramount hospitality experiences. We caught up with Zakarian at The Food Studio in New York City, and he gave us a sneak peek of his demo – cooking some REALLY special shrimp and grits. To book a seat at Chef Geoffrey’s appearance at the Festival or any of the other Special Dining Events, check out at EpcotFoodFestival.com, or call 407-939-3378. Here are the links to book online: Culinary Demonstrations at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Beverage Seminars at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Party for the Senses What’s Cookin’ With… at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It! at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Cheese Seminars at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Eat to the Beat Dining Package at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival And stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for updates and more! View the full article

Have you seen “Club Mickey Mouse” yet? “Club Mickey Mouse” follows the journey of eight new Mouseketeers as they create new music and choreography and build friendships. Viewers can follow the program via Club Mickey Mouse on Instagram and Facebook, and can expect to find a unique musical performance and a marquee music video posted each Thursday. Walt Disney Records will also distribute the group’s original music weekly through online music stores – and a new “Club Mickey Mouse” theme song has already been released! The cast of “Club Mickey Mouse” recently visited Walt Disney World Resort for some fun, adventure – and of course a meeting with Mickey Mouse himself. Check out the video above for a peek inside their visit. View the full article

Think back and remember your very first roller coaster ride. I recall a lot of anxiety and trepidation — along with a hopeful spirit that I was finally tall enough and brave enough to ride. It was a right-of-passage in a sense, and it made me feel all grown up. We have a ton of thrilling coasters for enthusiasts with quests to conquer the mountains of Disney and more. But it’s so awesome that we have gentler offerings to ease little ones into a lifetime of loving coasters. Based on the classic Disney film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train opened a couple of years ago as part of the Fantasyland expansion. It’s a family-friendly coaster (open to kids 38 inches tall) that actually swings on the track from side to side. It’s super appealing to youngsters with its cheery music, gentle twists and turns, and top speeds of less than 35 mph. It’s almost like two rides in one with storytelling inside with the adorable dwarfs as animatronic figures in familiar scenes; while on the outside track it’s wind in your hair thrills. We checked in with some park guests who gave us their reactions to this rocking Magic Kingdom ride. View the full article

HOW CUTE is the new Starbucks Mickey Tumbler for Disney’s Animal Kingdom?!? Animal Kingdom Mickey Tumbler You’ll find it at Creature Comforts, the Animal Kingdom Starbucks location. And much like when you’re in the park itself, the more you look, the more you see… from Mickey’s animal print ears and legs to the Tree of Life tucked on the bottom of Mickey’s shoe, to attraction logos and more, Mickey is ALL Animal Kingdom from head to toe! Other Side of Animal Kingdom Mickey Tumbler New Starbucks mugs are cropping up in all of the Disney Parks recently. These park-specific tumblers are hot off the presses in addition to refreshed designs for the ever popular “You Are Here” mugs. You may have already seen the new Epcot mug that was released this past Sunday in honor of the park’s 35th Anniversary. Epcot 35 Anniversary Starbucks Mug And here is Animal Kingdom’s new “You Are Here” design. New Animal Kingdom “You Are Here” Mug New Animal Kingdom “You Are Here” Mug We’ll be back with a look at more of the new mugs and tumblers soon. But for now, we’re too busy having a WILD (and caffeinated ) TIME at Disney’s Animal Kingdom! Do you collect the Disney Parks Starbucks Mugs? Please let us know about your collection 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: Spotted: Disney Parks Exclusive Starbucks Mug and Cup Ornaments Spotted! Musical Tumbler in Disney’s Animal Kingdom #OnTheList: Cotton-Top Tamarin Cupcake at Animal Kingdom’s Creature Comforts View the full article

Picture it: A plate full of Baked Macaroni and Cheese. Learn About: Flame Tree Barbecue Animal Kingdom Disney World Restaurants On top of that, a pile of Flame Tree Barbecue’s Pulled Pork. On top of THAT, another Flame Tree favorite: Onion Rings! And on the side? Just a bit of coleslaw to provide a hint of cooling tang to the entire dish. Well, guess what? You don’t have to simply imagine it — because the fine folks at Animal Kingdom’s Flame Tree Barbecue have made it a reality! You’ll see it on the updated menu, where the Baked Macaroni & Cheese with Pulled Pork Topped with Onion Rings and Coleslaw has replaced the Smoked Turkey Sandwich. Flame Tree Barbecue Menu You’ll notice a difference in presentation, though, from the menu. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork The coleslaw is served in a small bowl on the side, as opposed to included with the other toppings — a nice touch for those who don’t prefer coleslaw mixed in with the other flavors. Coleslaw on the side The pulled pork gets just a drizzle of the famous Flame Tree Barbecue Sauce. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork (But remember, if you would like additional sauce, there’s plenty more where that came from at the condiment counters, so help yourself!) Flame Tree Barbecue Sauce Dispenser Simply put, there is a TON of food in this tasty, savory, SUPER filling meal. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork Onion Ring And, as with the Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork at Eight Spoon Cafe, the smoky flavor of the pork pairs so nicely with the cheesy mac. Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork But! Unlike the dish at Eight Spoon Cafe, which is served in a small ramekin, the Flame Tree dish is an entire entree coming in at only $3.70 higher (the full Flame Tree portion is $9.99, while the snack at Eight Spoon Cafe is $6.29… and doesn’t come with those onion rings!). Wow… and I thought Flame Tree’s French Fries with Pulled Pork and Cheese was a game changer (even though I already loved Flame Tree long before that)! Now we’ve got TWO. Which would you pick ? Will you be ordering up some Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork at Flame Tree Barbecue? 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: Onion Rings and Chocolate Mousse at Animal Kingdom’s Flame Tree Barbecue Review: Lunch at Animal Kingdom’s Flame Tree Barbecue — Including the New FULL Slab of Ribs! Review: Fruit Plate with Honey Yogurt at Flame Tree Barbecue in Disney’s Animal Kingdom View the full article

Tonight’s Disney Parks After Dark image showcases one highlight of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party – the event’s special fireworks show, “Happy HalloWishes.” In “Happy HalloWishes,” the Ghost Host from the Haunted Mansion invites guests to watch as the Disney Villains light up the night with fireworks. The show’s soundtrack features creepy tunes like “Grim Grinning Ghosts,” from the Haunted Mansion, “Poor Unfortunate Souls,” from “The Little Mermaid”; “The Skeleton Dance,” from “Silly Symphony”; “Oogie Boogie’s Song,” from “Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas” and more. View the full article

We’ve put the final touches on the newest iteration of our popular Disney Parks Blog newsletter -and now, it’s ready for your inbox. Beginning today, our daily newsletter will include several new features to improve how you experience the Disney Parks stories that have made this email so popular. The Disney Parks Blog newsletter now has an easier layout for scanning with larger images that highlight your favorite stories. The layout also snaps to any size mobile device or tablet for a quick look at what’s happening. And you’ll find it easier to explore a topic in detail by following links that lead you back to a Disney Parks Blog story or you can simply navigate to a specific blog author to see more similar stories. If you haven’t signed up for the Disney Parks Blog email newsletter, visit our updated sign-up page and you’ll be set. And please let us know what you think of this new version in the comments. We’ll continue to share more updates as we continue to improve the Disney Parks Blog email newsletter. View the full article

Today, we’re taking our ongoing series of Disney-inspired bento box tutorials to this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival to create a fan favorite – Figment. As many of you know, chef Figment is the star of the Festival’s shirt and poster and that has inspired Disney Parks Blog reader and fan Mike Kravanis to create something special for you! To create chef Figment, Mike cooks rice in butterfly pea flower tea and lemon juice to turn it purple before adding a tuna filling. Dry seaweed is used to create parts of Figment’s face with yellow American cheese and olives for eyes. Also, kale, peppers and broccoli make the bento box background. Watch the video and give it a try. Keep your eye on the Disney Parks Blog for more Disney-inspired bento box tutorials in upcoming weeks. View the full article

“The Chew” hosts Mario Batali, Carla Hall, Clinton Kelly and Michael Symon started off Thursday’s taping at Epcot with the fun and energy their audience has come to expect — with some extra help from the critters hailing from Disney’s Pandora — The World of Avatar. The hosts of the ABC cooking... View the full article

Thousands of Epcot’s best friends gathered this week to celebrate the theme park’s 35th anniversary. There were loads of shared memories – Figment, “Veggie Veggie Fruit Fruit,” Horizons and the ilk – but there also was talk about coming attractions. It’s so Epcot to talk about the future, right? ... View the full article

It’s time to travel across the nine realms to Asgard for a sneak peek at the epic adventure “Thor: Ragnarok,” thundering into theaters next month. Catch our limited preview of scenes from “Thor: Ragnarok” starting this weekend at Disneyland Resort, featuring a display of props and costumes used in the production of the film. The “Thor: Ragnarok” Sneak Peek, presented in 3D with special in-theater effects, will be showing in the Sunset Showcase Theater at Disney California Adventure park October 6 – November 10. In “Thor: Ragnarok,” Thor is imprisoned on the other side of the universe without his mighty hammer and finds himself in a race against time to get back to Asgard to stop Ragnarok – the destruction of his home world and the end of Asgardian civilization – at the hands of an all-powerful new threat, the ruthless Hela. But first he must survive a deadly gladiatorial contest that pits him against his former ally and fellow Avenger – the Incredible Hulk! You’ll be able to fully experience “Thor: Ragnarok” when the film opens in theaters in 3D on November 3. View the full article

Avengers assemble! This Friday, the Disney Magic sets sail from New York City for an extraordinary 8-night voyage to the Bahamas featuring the first-ever Marvel Day at Sea. To hear more about the adventures that lie ahead, we sat down with Marvel legend Stan Lee and two of the event’s creators. Take a look… On one action-packed day during the cruise, we’ll transport guests to a new realm of possibilities when the Marvel Universe assembles on the ship. Marvel Day at Sea will feature all-day entertainment for the entire family, combining the thrills of renowned Marvel comics, films and animated series with the excitement of a Disney Cruise. Marvel Day at Sea premieres on select 7- and 8-night Disney Cruise Line sailings from New York this fall, and returns on select 5-night Western Caribbean cruises from Miami in early 2018. Keep following along on the Disney Parks Blog as we unveil more details, and take a look back at past posts to get up to speed on this unforgettable day at sea: Powerful New Doctor Strange Show Revealed for Marvel Day at Sea More Family Fun Revealed for Marvel Day at Sea Cruises Debuting from New York City This Fall First Look at the Full Roster of Marvel Super Heroes to Assemble on Disney Cruise Line Meet ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ Super Heroes on Marvel Day at Sea with Disney Cruise Line Seven Things You Won’t Want to Miss During Marvel Day at Sea Five Epic Experiences During Marvel Day at Sea Stan Lee Assembles Super Heroes for Marvel Day at Sea View the full article

Why, hello there! We’re back with another DFB Video today, and we’re taking a tour of Epcot’s Italy Pavilion. Acually, it’s better than that… we’re taking a FOOD TOUR of Epcot’s Italy! Pizza at Via Napoli Sure, the Italy Pavilion is home to the Best Pizza in Disney World, courtesy of Via Napoli. But Italian cuisine is more than simply pizza (even when that pizza should NOT be missed!). We hope you’ll join us for a spin around Epcot’s Italy to discover the Pavilion’s vino, pasta, cheese, gelato, and more. 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 tops YOUR must-nosh list in Epcot’s Italy? 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: Epcot’s Germany — Nosh or Not? Food Tour! New DFB Video: Eat This in Epcot Part 1! DFB Video: Best to Worst Disney World Two-Credit Restaurants View the full article

Since October is just beginning, I was surprised to learn that Oktoberfest – the premiere annual beer festival in Munich, Germany – officially ends today. No need to worry … if you’re here in Central Florida, Disney Springs will be serving up cold brews and hot eats all month long and through the fall. I recently caught up with a few of my favorite craft beer connoisseurs, including Disney Springs Food and Beverage Proprietor, Jamie Entwistle. According to Jamie, “Disney Springs is a melting pot of beer options. Here, you can enjoy craft beer from a wide mix of local and national breweries in addition to tried and true favorites – each guest is sure to find their favorite style and may even expand their palate by trying something unique as they walk the promenade and enjoy our great entertainment options.” Disney Springs Senior Duty Manager, Mike England, echoed the sentiment. Though he’s here five days a week for work, he’s often here during his weekends, too, trying out the newest beers on tap. Of all my friends, Mike is one of the most knowledgeable when it comes to ales, lagers and everything in between, so I asked him for his “Top Five” list at Disney Springs; not one to shy away from a challenge, he came back with ten. “Here are my current favorites,” Mike shared, “they’re all Florida Craft beers, and they’re listed in no particular order, except for Cigar City Jai Alai – it always tops my list!”: 1. Cigar City Jai Alai (AMC Dine-In, House of Blues and multiple other locations) 2. Big Storm Wavemaker Amber (Boathouse) 3. Orange Blossom Pilsner (Dockside Margaritas) 4. Crooked Can McSwaggers Own (Frontera Cocina) 5. Cask & Larder Five Points IPA (Polite Pig) 6. Coppertail Brewing Miriam’s Irish Coffee Stout (Raglan Road) 7. Orlando Brewing Blonde Ale (Paddlefish) 8. Funky Buddha Hop Gun (Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’) 9. Swamp Head Brewery Stump Knocker APA (Planet Hollywood Stargazers Lounge) 10. 3 Daughters Brewing Seasonal (Dockside Margaritas) I’ll admit, I’ve only sampled about half of the brews on this list, but I’m excited to try the rest. Of course, that will give me the perfect excuse to also indulge in some of the Oktoberfest-eque, limited time menu items that are currently available at Disney Springs, namely the Bratwurst and Spaetzel from B.B. Wolf’s and the Oktoberfest Poutine from The Daily Poutine. (On the latter? Crumbled bratwurst, cheese curds, and gravy made with stout beer – don’t mind if I do!) If the above doesn’t suit your fancy, remember that Disney Springs’ offerings are always evolving. One of the upcoming additions I’m most looking forward to is a new Disney Springs beer that will soon debut in partnership with a local craft brewery; the selection will rotate seasonally and will even have a custom “Disney Springs” tap, only found here. Have you discovered any “must-try” sips during your Disney Springs visits? If so, share in the comments below – I’m always eager to find a new favorite! View the full article

Boys and girls of every age – wouldn’t you like to see something strange? If so, you’re in for a chillingly good time here at Disney Parks this Halloween season! Now, as they say, look alive, because I’ll be your Ghost Host as we travel overseas for a look at how our international resorts are celebrating the spookiest holiday of the year. At Disneyland Paris for the Halloween season, Disney Villains are taking over during an all-new parade, Mickey’s Halloween Tricycle Gang, and you may encounter the likes of Maleficent, The Queen of Hearts, Jafar, Captain Hook and Cruella around the resort. Also during the month of October, you’re invited to Goofy’s Skeletoon Street Party with Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald Duck and his sidekicks, José Carioca and Panchito Pistoles from “The Three Caballeros.” Visit Hong Kong Disneyland to experience the most wicked Halloween party yet! For some spooky fun, you can brave Maze of Madness: The Nightmare Experiment Continues, watch Disney Villains turn the park upside down in Villains Night Out! Chapter 2 and navigate the Pirates of the Caribbean Ghost Trail. You’re in for a treat at the Halloween Time Festival Gardens, where Winnie the Pooh and his friends are waiting to greet you in their brand new costumes – and after dark, the Disney Villains will be taking over again! You can also catch your favorite Disney characters in the festive Mickey’s Halloween Time Street Party, and keep an eye out for Jack Skellington around the park. For some extra Halloween magic, be sure to try out the wicked fun options for dining and peruse the more than 80 special edition merchandise items on sale around the resort. As dusk falls, Shanghai Disney Resort is alight with wicked fun during the inaugural Halloween extravaganza. The all-new Villains’ Cavalcade with Hades, Maleficent and Dr. Facilier is worth a few thrills and chills, not to mention the phantom Ghost Pirates you’ll face in Treasure Cove. Visit with Mickey Mouse and his pals in their Halloween costumes, or join in for an epic dance party with a DJ and live host who can teach you some moves inspired by Guardians of the Galaxy. If you prefer treats to tricks, get your Halloween sugar rush at Sweethearts Confectionery and Marketplace in Disneytown – the Glow-stick Cotton Candy is tempting! This year Tokyo Disney Resort is celebrating 20 years of Halloween fun at the resort. At Tokyo Disneyland, Disney’s Halloween Musical Festival is hitting the right note, and you’re in for a swinging wake! Watch as Mickey and his friends join ghosts and skeleton “stars” in Halloween Pop’n LIVE along the parade route, and climb aboard your doom buggy in Haunted Mansion “Holiday Nightmare.” Over at Tokyo DisneySea, The Villains World harbor show adds to the eerie atmosphere, not to mention the Disney Villains recruiters who are roaming the American Waterfront looking for guests to sway to the villain’s way. Ah, there you are! That concludes our tour of Halloween celebrations at the international resorts. We’ll be sharing even more about Halloween at our parks in the coming weeks, so stay tuned! View the full article

Halloween is in the air at Disneyland Paris! Kourtney Kardashian joined in the fun and made a point of coming during Paris Fashion Week to meet her favorite Disney character for a “deVil-ish” moment at the park. The star struck a pose with Cruella – and with style – in the middle of Walt Disney Studios Park. View the full article

Today’s brand-new Disney Doodle is by artist Ashley Taylor. In it, she imagines characters from “Peter Pan” having a ball at Magic Kingdom Park. In the 1953 film “Peter Pan,” it was the wonderful stories Wendy told that first drew Peter Pan to her window. So it’s only natural that if Peter Pan and the Lost Boys had the chance to visit a Disney theme park, they’d hurry to a place full of stories, right? “Peter Pan and the Lost Boys are always excited to hear new stories!” Ashley said. “I’d imagine they would have the best time at Enchanted Tales with Belle!” View the full article

The Plaza Restaurant is now serving up a Milkshake of the Month! The Plaza Restaurant sign And they’re starting off with a bang with the Chocolate Hazelnut Milkshake, available throughout October! ©Disney Even better? It’s BOTTOMLESS! That’s right… Whispering Canyon Cafe isn’t the only Bottomless Milkshake game in town. Disney World Menu Screenshot As you can see, you aren’t limited to the Milkshake of the Month for the All-You-Care-to-Enjoy Milkshake. For $9, you can have it in your choice of any of the regular flavors as well: Chocolate, Vanilla, Strawberry, or Mint Chocolate Chip. Plaza Restaurant Milkshake Just a reminder… this isn’t to be confused with the Quick Service takeaway spot, Plaza Ice Cream Parlor, next door. This is the Table Service Plaza Restaurant. So, I’m thinking it’s Loaded Plaza Fries and a Bottomless Shake for lunch at The Plaza Restaurant one of these days…. who’s with me?! Will you be grabbing an All-You-Care-to-Enjoy Milkshake at The Plaza Restaurant? 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: Rumor: Magic Kingdom’s Plaza Restaurant to Offer Increased Walk-up Availability Review: Plaza Restaurant at Magic Kingdom Guest Review: The Plaza Restaurant in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

We hadn’t been back to STK Orlando for another meal since it opened last summer, and it was time to check this brand new Disney Springs restaurant out again. Learn About: STK Orlando Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants Located in The Landing area of Disney Springs, this restaurant that strives to be sexy has more of a vibe suited for a big city or Vegas, rather than the sleepy, Old Florida town of Disney Springs. Still, it was one of the most anticipated new restaurants that sprang up in the area. On our first visit, we were fairly impressed with much of the food. But even as new restaurants continue to open in Disney Springs, we’re finding that some are rising to the top…and some…well…aren’t. Which camp do we think STK is in? Come with us as we share our impressions of the upscale steakhouse. Atmosphere We arrived late for our advance dining reservation, owing to an earlier commitment that ran long. Since I was more than 15 minutes late, I was told that we would have to wait to be worked back into the schedule. Because I had a dining companion to chat with, it wasn’t a total bummer. But since the upstairs was completely closed for a private event, thus making downstairs more crowded than it needed to be, it was a little unfortunate. The old advice holds: try not to be late for your ADR. STK Outside View and Outdoor Seating While we were waiting, the DJ was spinning, as he normally is. The music was a combo of more recent songs with a smattering of everything else, from disco to 80s and beyond. It was a bit loud, but not so loud that we couldn’t talk. DJ STK’s decor is modern, with lots of black and white. Hot pink lights provide contrast. Lower Level Indoor Seating We noticed some wear and tear on the edges of chairs in the bar area, which we thought was a little unfortunate for a restaurant that’s just over a year old. Lower Level Indoor Seating Speaking of the second floor — which frankly, we prefer — there’s a lit-up staircase that leads to it. Stairwell to Upstairs Seating Upstairs, you’ll find a second bar (there’s one on the first floor as well) with windows that look out onto the restaurant’s terrace. Upper Level Indoor Bar The inside dining area upstairs is pretty non-descript. Upper Level Indoor Seating But outside, you’ll find a lovely rooftop terrace. This is my favorite part of the restaurant. Upper Level Patio Dining at STK Orlando One end of the patio houses a turret, where you’ll find a firepit for cooler Florida evenings. Fire Pit The views from STK, like those from neighboring Morimoto Asia, are quite lovely. Definitely spend a little time on the patio if you have the chance, especially if you’re visiting after sunset. Eats We began our visit with a look at the menu. There’s another page with starters, but you get the gist from this view. Menu — Click to Enlarge Having just come from another event, we weren’t starving, so we decided to give more attention to starters and sides and limit ourselves to just one entree. After we made our selections, our server brought a loaf of STK’s signature savory pull-apart bread, topped with blue cheese butter and served with a side of pesto for dipping. This was delicious, and is likely one of the best parts of STK, food-wise; although my friend wanted the rolls to have a little more zip from the blue cheese. STK Bread Topped with Blue Butter and Served with Pesto for Dipping During our first visit, we enjoyed STK’s food and had great service. One of our objectives during this visit was to try a few of the same dishes to see if they were still as good as we remembered. We began this exploration with the Crispy Rock Shrimp. I really like the dish, and found it to be just as good. The breading is light and crispy, and the remoulade provides the perfect spicy-creamy complement. It’s not particularly original, but it’s done very well. Get it. Love it. Crispy Rock Shrimp We’ll save the rest of our comparisons for the side dishes! But first, let’s take a look at the entree that we chose. During our visit, STK had six different steaks on the menu, including the 28-ounce Dry Aged Porterhouse for two, which we tried on our previous visit. This time, we opted for the 14-ounce Dry Aged Delmonico, which was cooked to our medium-rare specifications. Now, here I need to pause and talk sauces. See those four ramekins? Each of those sauces are two bucks a pop. I wasn’t particularly happy about this, especially since I can go across the way and get all the sauces I want at The Polite Pig and D-Luxe Burger for No Bucks a Pop. Delmonico Steak with Sauces As for what the sauces were, from the top right going clockwise, they were STK, Blue Butter, Bearnaise, and STK Bold. They were fine, but the price seems a little steep. Sides are a big deal at most steakhouses, and STK is no exception, so we tried several. The next dish has undergone a complete transformation since the restaurant opened. Originally, the Parmesan Truffle Fries were super thick cut and were really something special. Now, they’re pretty much your standard fries. They were good, but frankly, they were a little underwhelming. Truffle Fries On the other hand, the Mac and Cheese was anything but. This was one of our favorite dishes our first time, and we agree that it’s still pretty amazing. This was my friend’s favorite part of the meal. The cheese wasn’t just super abundant; the dish also had incredible flavor. And unlike the last time we had it, the top wasn’t a mass of melted cheese, which can sometimes be a bit hard to manage once it cools down. Mac and Cheese But the Sweet Corn Pudding surprised me, and not really in a good way. I was expecting something a little more, well…solid, I suppose. I would call this Sweet Corn Soup, personally. Sweet Corn Pudding The flavor was good, but I couldn’t help but wonder if it had been undercooked. Sweet Corn Pudding — Up Close We weren’t quite finished with our meal, however. We decided to take a look at the dessert menu to see if anything piqued our interest. Dessert Menu — Click to Enlarge It did. We tried the Warm Baked Cookie, served with chocolate and caramel sauces, and topped with vanilla ice cream. It’s served ooey gooey and warm, and scratches that comfort food itch nicely. Warm Baked Cookie The Bag o’ Donuts, filled with Dulce de Leche, were a little less satisfying, but fine. They came with raspberry and spiced chocolate sauces for dipping. Bag o’ Donuts They’re good, and the presentation is cute. We just didn’t find them to be particularly memorable. Nosh or Not? Make a beeline for STK if: You like eating in a dance club (or if you never have, you think you just might). You want to experience dining in one of Disney Springs’ restaurants that features a rooftop terrace. But you should plan to skip STK if: You don’t think the words “sexy”, “dinner”, and “Disney” should appear anywhere in the same sentence. You’re on a budget, even if you ARE on the Disney Dining Plan (more about that in a sec). You want to feel like you’re dining somewhere in Walt Disney World, not Las Vegas. Overall How do I sum up STK? One word: unimpressive. Look, if that steak were the most AMAZING steak I’d ever eaten, I might be more positive with my comments. But it wasn’t. It was OK, but not amazing. And if I hadn’t been nickeled and dimed for sauces to dip my steak in — my $62.00 steak — I might be less grumpy as I write this. And if my server hadn’t been flip when I asked him for things like ketchup (FOR FRENCH FRIES, PEOPLE) — my mood might be a little better. But here’s the thing: when a restaurant decides to charge incredibly high prices, AND even levy supplemental charges on menu items when you’re using the Disney Dining Plan — then they’d better bring it. And they just didn’t. Yep. Even with my Deluxe Disney Dining Plan, I had to pay a supplement for my steak, plus pay for the side dishes. So, for my money, I call STK a pass. If they were DDP one credit table service restaurant with reasonable prices, then maybe. But I just don’t consider them to be in the same league as other Disney Springs favorites, such as Morimoto Asia, BOATHOUSE, and Homecomin’, or on par with my favorite steakhouses, like Pappas Bros, Del Friscos, and Capital Grille, outside of Disney. Now that I’ve left you in little doubt of my opinion, what’s yours? Share your comments with me 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: Review: Dinner at The Boathouse at Disney Springs Review: Dinner at Homecomin’ in Disney Springs Full Review: Dinner at Morimoto Asia in Disney World’s Disney Springs View the full article

This summer, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge opened to guests and Disney Vacation Club Members. In case you haven’t yet had a chance to check it out in person, here’s a glimpse of some details you’ll find in this rustically elegant Walt Disney World Resort retreat. The resort’s design is inspired by the Pacific Northwest, offering modern ammentieis mixed with natural elements. Walt Disney’s love of trains was a foundation in choosing the elements to incorporate in the accommodations. By utilizing railroad relics and memorabilia in a contemporary way, Walt Disney Imagineers expanded upon the already rich history of the resort. And what would a Disney Vacation Club Resort at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge be without some nods to the Disney characters? Keep an eye out for Rutt and Tuke from “Brother Bear,” and even the mischievous wilderness explorer duo themselves – Chip and Dale. With Deluxe Studios, 1- and 2-bedroom Villas, 3-bedroom Grand Villas and spectacular waterfront Cascade Cabins, Copper Creek Villas & Cabins offers uniquely themed accommodation types for every size family! This is a timeshare solicitation and is not an offer in any jurisdiction where the timeshare is not registered. View the full article

Did you know…elephants are afraid of bees? It’s true! Disney animal experts have been able to prove it and use that knowledge to help save elephants through a unique project in Kenya called Elephants and Bees. Elephants are one of 10 animals highlighted in the Disney Conservation Fund’s “Reverse the Decline, Increase the Time” philanthropic initiative that aims to help save at-risk wildlife as well as inspire children to spend more time in nature so they will care for the planet. Working with Save the Elephants (STE), Disney has helped reduce conflicts between elephants and humans so they can co-exist in areas where elephants often invade farms to raid crops. With the understanding that elephants fear bees, STE created beehive fences, which help local farmers protect their livelihood and maintain their crops. For the past 10 years, Walt Disney World Cast Members have traveled to Kenya to provide expertise and help lead studies with STE. The STE team has also received conservation grants from the Disney Conservation Fund in support of their efforts. At Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Guests can participate in Connect to Protect, a mobile adventure in which they take part in conservation ‘missions’ with a digital scientist while exploring Pandora – The World of Avatar and help protect the habitats of the 10 Reverse the Decline animals here on Earth. Guests have used their adventures and their votes to unlock a $100,000 contribution from Disney Parks to help protect habitats for elephants in Kenya. You can see elephants on Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and learn more about the Elephants and Bees project by checking out elephantsandbees.com, taking part in the new Caring for Giants experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and visiting DisneyAnimals.com. View the full article