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Halloween may still be several weeks away, but preparations are already underway here at the Walt Disney World Resort and aboard Disney Cruise Line. This week, we shared some new images of what Disney Cruise Line guests can expect from special Halloween sailings this fall aboard the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and during October on the Disney Magic. Guests can don costumes, join in on fun dance parties, attend Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party with games, dancing, Disney friends and lots of candy, watch as the ship’s jack-o-lantern tree comes to life and so much more. View the full article

Tiffins at Disney's Animal Kingdom takes diners on a culinary adventure, showcasing dishes and flavors from all over the world. The restaurant has artwork and cuisine inspired from the travels of the Imagineers who created the theme park. Be sure to explore the different dining rooms and take note... View the full article

Anybody remember the Ham and Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel that debuted in the Magic Kingdom in January? Learn About: Sleepy Hollow Magic Kingdom Disney World Restaurants It’s had a few homes there, including its original location of The Lunching Pad in Tomorrowland, and it was also spotted at Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland. Most recently, it popped up again in Hollywood Studios at a relatively new snack cart right near Toy Story Midway Mania. Well, on our last trip to Magic Kingdom, we found a new version of the stuffed pretzel at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments: the Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel. We thought we’d grab one to see how it differs from its Ham and Cheese counterpart. Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel Let’s start with the obvious difference: this one features sausage instead of ham . (I know. Who would have guessed?!) And, of course, cheddar cheese instead of Swiss. Sesame seeds are the main topper with this one, and just like the ham version, it’s served warm. The general setup makes me think of the ol’ Frankfurter in a Pretzel Roll at Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner. Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel Now, less obvious — and actually kind of surprising — is how the cheddar cheese factors into everything. Rather than ooze out of the pretzel the way the Swiss does in the ham version, there are cheddar pieces stuffed into the actual sausage instead. Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel cross-section Despite appearances in the photos, there was a lot of it tucked in there! And the consistency was nice and creamy, pairing well with the hearty, smokey sausage. Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel cross-section Like the ham pretzel, this version has also got some substance to it, so it’s pretty filling along with being tasty. In fact, the only thing that made me raise an eyebrow was the $9.29 price tag. For something that’s not quite a meal but more than a typical snack, I thought the $7.49 for the Ham and Cheese-stuffed Pretzel was more appropriate. This one may be showing up in other spots, just like the Ham and Cheese version. Or, who knows, another twist may even be on the way soon. If you spot one during your next Magic Kingdom jaunt, let us know! Don’t Miss Out on the ALL the Best Snacks Walt Disney World Has to Offer! One of our most popular Bundles, the DFB Guide & Snacks Bundle will prepare you for anything and everything snack-related under the Disney Sun! This money-saving bundle includes all of the following: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2016 Edition The DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks The DFB Guide to Epcot Snacks The DFB Guide to Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios Snacks Offering this handy group of books as a bundle allows us to pass on deep savings to you. You can get the entire collection for only $39.95 — that’s almost 40% off the individual cover prices! With this Bundle of e-books you’ll have everything you need at your fingertips to plan the best Disney World vacation ever. And with our handy e-book format, you can download the Guides to all of your electronic devices and take them with you wherever you go! And with our 100% money-back guarantee, what do you have to lose? Just looking for all the Snacks in Magic Kingdom? Then check out our DFB Guide to Magic Kingdom Snacks, newly updated for your 2016-17 trip! With over 150 Magic Kingdom snacks, you’ll always be in the know! And for a limited time only, we are offering the Guide for 20% off! To secure the discount, use code Magic16 at check-out. Do you like the new pretzel-wrapped options in Disney World? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Ham and Cheese-Stuffed Pretzel at The Lunching Pad in Magic Kingdom Review: Sleepy Hollow Refreshments at Magic Kingdom Review: Waffle with Strawberries and Whipped Cream at Sleepy Hollow in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom View the full article

Aerosmith frontman Steven Tyler isn't giving Disney World a thumbs-up for digitally altering his hand in a video that plays at an attraction featuring the band. Tyler, wearing a hat with an expletive written on it, posted a photo of himself Thursday on social media making the same gesture as he... View the full article

Kids may be going back to school, but it’s still summertime at the Disneyland Resort! From “Frozen – Live at the Hyperion” to the final weeks of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, there’s so much to do and see. Take a look! Come join us for a little more summertime fun now at the Disneyland Resort! View the full article

We’re still in the heat of summer here at Walt Disney World Resort, but there are lots of fun ways to keep cool in the Florida heat. Take a look at these tips for your visit this summer. Cool off at Disney’s Animal Kingdom–Board Kali River Rapids and prepare to get soaked! This thrilling whitewater adventure aboard a 12-person raft now lets you get drenched during the day and after dark! Epcot is Worth Melting For–We all love summer, but no one more than Olaf does! Spot Olaf and all of the other “Frozen” pals on the new Frozen Ever After attraction, where you’re invited to join in celebrating a summer snow day as you sail through Arendelle. Celebrate Under the Stars at Disney’s Hollywood Studios–It might not be as chilly as Hoth, but after the sun goes down, be sure to catch the super cool Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular fireworks show at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Want an even cooler way to watch the show? Check out the Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular Dessert Party, where you can sip refreshing specialty drinks and nosh on desserts. Get Soaked at Magic Kingdom Park— Head to Splash Mountain for a sensational splashdown where you’re sure to get wet. Over at the Water Parks, you can go for the ultimate ‘chill’ and float around the Cross Country Creek lazy river at Disney’s Blizzard Beach, or go for the ultimate ‘thrill’ as you drop 5-stories on the Humunga Kowabunga slides at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Grab a Cool Snack at Disney Springs–There’s nothing better than an icy cold scoop of something delicious on a hot day, and the authentic Italian gelato from Vivoli il Gelato will hit the spot. Find it in The Landing area of Disney Springs. Let us know what your favorite cool-down activities are at Walt Disney World Resort! View the full article

It’s sure been a hoppin’ summer over at Disney Springs! Learn About: Planet Hollywood Downtown Disney Disney World Restaurants The recent arrivals of Frontera Cocina, Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, and Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza barely scratch the surface of all the additions that have helped to change the landscape of Disney World’s shopping and dining district over the past year or so. And now that those are up and running, we turn our attention to a couple of spots that have been part of the scene since the district was known as Downtown Disney. One of those is Planet Hollywood, which will reopen as the Planet Hollywood Observatory this Fall. (The other is Paddlefish, formerly known as Fulton’s Crab House — look for a late November opening for that one.) Now we’re starting to get a feel for what the refreshed Planet Hollywood Observatory will offer, especially with the arrival of the news that the location will feature — among many other dishes — an exclusive Burger and Sandwich Menu created by Celebrity Chef and Food Network Star Guy Fieri, best known for his show “Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.” @PlanetHollywoodObservatory Facebook These can be followed up with some of the Mason Jar Desserts that will also be exclusive to the Observatory. @PlanetHollywoodObservatory Facebook So, that’s a teeny hint of what’s to come with the menu. How about a little peek inside the location itself? Planet Hollywood Observatory refurbishment underway The Planet Hollywood Observatory Facebook Page is a great spot to check out some Concept Art representing what’s to come. @PlanetHollywoodObservatory Facebook @PlanetHollywoodObservatory Facebook Though the Observatory will have its own unique feel, the restaurant promises to offer what Planet Hollywood locations are best known for: plenty of rare Hollywood movie and TV memorabilia packed inside the space for both casual and more dedicated cinema buffs. @PlanetHollywoodObservatory Facebook At this time, it’s likely that the Planet Hollywood Observatory is slated for an October opening. Are you looking forward to the new look and eats? What do you think of the changes coming to the Planet Hollywood Observatory? Please let us know with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow us on Twitter Become a Facebook Fan Related posts: News! Planet Hollywood Will Be Re-imagined to Fit the Disney Springs Look Rumor: Major Changes For Toy Story Pizza Planet in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in 2016 News: Chef Art Smith Restaurant in Disney Springs Confirmed View the full article

VERO BEACH -- About 90 minutes southeast of Walt Disney World, a team of Disney conservation experts are trying to be heroes to Florida's turtle population. If you're in the neighborhood during turtle season you can get in on the action. Disney's Vacation Club runs Disney's Vero Beach Resort, a... View the full article

KFC's secret recipe blend of 11 herbs and spices has remained a mystery for years. Could the secret have surfaced in a family photo album? View the full article

KFC's secret recipe blend of 11 herbs and spices has remained a mystery for years. Could the secret have surfaced in a family photo album? View the full article

Danube River Cruise - Itinerary Highlights | Adventures by Disney View the full article

Frozen Ever After has set sail into the wintery world of Frozen! You can relive the magic of your adventure long after you’ve journeyed through Arendelle, as Disney PhotoPass Service offers an on-ride photo capture opportunity! While you’re enjoying a boat tour through the kingdom of Arendelle during a special “Summer Snow Day” with Queen Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff and friends, our camera will capture a photo of you during an exciting moment of your journey. To preview, purchase and download this attraction photo, you must be wearing a MagicBand during your adventure. Your photo will be automatically associated to your My Disney Experience account, where it can be viewed at MyDisneyPhotoPass.com or in the My Disney Experience mobile app alongside all of your vacation memories from Disney PhotoPass Service. You can receive all of your Disney PhotoPass Walt Disney World vacation photos, including select attraction photos, with Memory Maker. Your Disney PhotoPass photos can also be purchased individually online or at any Disney PhotoPass Sales Center. So step aboard a Norwegian vessel and chill out while Disney PhotoPass Service captures your fantastically Frozen adventure! Memory Maker is subject to the Memory Maker Terms and Conditions. Memory Maker includes photos taken during the applicable Memory Maker window. A MagicBand is required to receive certain attraction photos and other digital content. If Memory Maker purchased at the advance purchase price, any photos taken within 3 days from the date Memory Maker is purchased will not be included and must be purchased separately. Online registration required. Disney PhotoPass Photos in your account will expire pursuant to the expiration policy at Walt Disney World. Downloads are restricted to personal use only. Not responsible for missing, lost or damaged photos. Subject to restrictions and change without notice. Valid theme park admission required for certain photo locations. View the full article

Over the last several weeks, my fellow Disney Parks Blogs authors have been sharing details on some of the offerings and events available throughout Walt Disney World Resort. I’ve loved reading these “Welcome to Our World!” stories, and I’m so excited that this week, the focus is on Disney Springs! If you think Disney Springs is simply a slightly updated version of the former Downtown Disney location, read on, because it’s so much more … Over the last three years, Disney Springs has doubled in size, growing from about 75 locations to over 150. We now have five James Beard-Award Wining Chefs represented on property (Chefs Art Smith, Rick Bayless, Masaharu Morimoto, Wolfgang Puck and Tony Mantuano) making this an unparalleled destination for dining. And the addition of over 50 total retailers has made the area a shopper’s delight. The waterfront property is a vibrant mix of stores, restaurants and entertainment spread through four distinct neighborhoods: Town Center – the newest addition to Disney Springs is a shopping mecca that has recently welcomed over 30 new brands, including anchor stores UNIQLO, Anthropologie, UNDER ARMOUR BRAND HOUSE and ZARA. Pepper in new eateries like Sprinkles Cupcakes, Blaze Pizza, Amorette’s Patisserie and Frontera Cocina and you could easily spend a few hours in this neighborhood alone. (Tip: when you need a break, retreat to the rooftop lounge at The Coca-Cola Store for a Coke Float and one of the best views of the property!) The Landing – here you’ll find a diverse array of restaurants including Paradiso 37, The BOATHOUSE, Raglan Road, Morimoto Asia, STK Orlando and Chef Art Smith’s Homecoming, along with niche retailers such as The Art of Shaving, Havaianas and Chapel Hats, to name just a few. Marketplace – this family-friendly spot for Disney lovers is home to World of Disney, the world’s largest Disney Merchandise store, plus other familiar favorites like The LEGO Store, Rainforest Café and Disney’s Days of Christmas. It’s a must-see destination if you’re visiting with little ones, thanks to the Marketplace Carousel and Train and the new Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. West Side – a lively entertainment hub with something for everyone; options range from bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes to movies at AMC Dine-In Theatres, from “La Nouba” by Cirque du Soleil to five floors of gaming awesomeness at DisneyQuest. That’s in addition to some of the staples you’ll continue to find here: Fit2Run, Curl by Sammy Duvall, House of Blues, Wolfgang Puck and Bongos Cuban Café, for example. Whether you have a set agenda or prefer to meander along and discover its charms as you stroll, Disney Springs is not-to-be-missed! Transportation is available from all Disney Resort hotels, and self-parking is complimentary on our surface lots and both parking garages, making the arrival experience easier and more convenient than ever. To learn more about Disney Springs, visit www.disneysprings.com or follow us on Twitter or Instagram at @DisneySprings. View the full article

This week’s after-dark moment comes courtesy of recently retired Disneyland Resort Chief Photographer Paul Hiffmeyer, who has a special talent for photographing waterfalls; I’ve often heard him say how much he enjoys this particular subject. I love the way he captures the movement of the waterfall behind Donald Duck’s boat, “Miss Daisy,” at Mickey’s Toontown in Disneyland park. View the full article

It’s been a while since we’ve visited one of my favorite nosh spots: Earl of Sandwich in Downtown Disney. That’s right… it’s Earl’s, Disneyland-style! Earl of Sandwich in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney We’re back for a quick visit because I couldn’t wait to dig into the Pepperoni Pizza Bread (and I maaaay have grabbed a few other items, too). The ingredients are exactly what you’d figure: sauce, cheese, and pepperoni on bread. Pepperoni Pizza Bread But here’s the kicker — it’s not just any bread. It’s Earl of Sandwich bread… which means it’s toasted to a wonderfully crisp golden brown, perfect for withstanding the toppings and not becoming limp or bland as can happen with a more typical flatbread. Pepperoni Pizza Bread And THAT makes all the difference. Highly recommended if you can part with your favorite sandwich on your next visit! I also went with the altogether summery Berry Chicken Almond Salad. It’s a spring mix of greens combined with grilled chicken, strawberries, blueberries, and plenty of slivered almonds with balsamic vinaigrette. Berry Chicken Almond Salad Colorful, fresh, and tasty — it’s all there with this one. Berry Chicken Almond Salad If you’re looking to indulge in Earl’s but still stay on the healthier or lighter side of things, this is a terrific option. Now, have I ever showed you my Earl’s go-to meal? It’s pretty simple, really — I grab the Kids’ Turkey ‘n Swiss (it’s topped with a little mayo) and pair it up with a side of Tomato Soup. Perfect for dipping! Kids’ Turkey and Swiss with Tomato Soup The Kids’ sandwiches are — in my opinion — a bit small, even considering that they are made for children. But pairing it with the Tomato Soup makes things just about right. It’s a little basic, maybe, but delicious. PLUS, a smaller meal means you’ll have room for this little gem — the Raspberry Crumb Cake — which I just have to point out so you don’t walk right past it among the pre-packaged options. Raspberry Crumb Cake It’s a moist vanilla cake with a crispy crumble topping swirled with a raspberry jam ribbon. Raspberry Crumb Cake Raspberry Crumb Cake The mix of raspberry and vanilla reminded me of those Knott’s Berry Farm Raspberry Shortbread Cookies. SO. GOOD! Oh, Earl — you still have my heart! After many, many, MANY meals here, it never disappoints, and I always look forward to my next visit… no matter how recent the last one was. Are you a fan of Earl’s? Please let us know with a comment below! Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here! 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! Starbucks and Earl of Sandwich May Come to Disneyland’s Downtown Disney Review: Vanilla Ice Cream Brownie Sandwich at Downtown Disney’s Earl of Sandwich Review: New Limited Time Menu Items at Earl of Sandwich View the full article

This fall we’re bringing back our popular Halloween on the High Seas cruises so your family can have a ghoulishly good time on vacation. Festivities abound throughout September and October on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy and during October on the Disney Magic. With so much fun taking place, you’re likely wondering how you can make the most of your celebration. Here are some ways to ensure it’s a special experience for the entire family… Bring a Costume: This may seem like a no-brainer, but there’s always that one family member who thinks they’re too old to join the fun. Find your inner child, pick out attire that makes you happy, and show it off during our lively costume parties! Families can attend Mickey’s Mouse-querade Party with games, dancing, Disney friends and lots of candy. Adults can enter our late-night Halloween Isn’t Just For Kids costume contest in the nighttime entertainment district. Plant a Pumpkin: Your family can play a role in bringing our Pumpkin Tree to life. The tree is tended to by a mysterious, storytelling caretaker, who you can join the first night of the cruise in planting enchanted pumpkin seeds beneath the shadow of the eerie branches. Then watch as the tree magically transforms throughout the cruise from barren to the life of the party, full with unique and spooky Jack-O-Lanterns. Listen Up: Get into the spirit of the season with spooky sights and sounds. Enjoy our Creepy Cabaret—a band of ghostly musicians—as they perform Halloween-themed music live in the atrium. Then join us for Haunted Stories of the Sea, where the bravest cruisers gather under the stars to hear some true—or not so true—tales of the sea told by a mysterious sea captain storyteller. Say ‘Yes’ to Spooky Movies: All throughout the cruise you can catch Halloween-themed movies on Funnel Vision by the family pool and in your stateroom. And on one special night, you can join us for A Nightmare Before Christmas—Sing and Scream, which is an interactive movie experience inspired by Tim Burton’s “The Nightmare Before Christmas” where you are part of the action. It’s followed by a meet-and-greet with Jack Skellington and Sally, a frightfully fun looking pair, don’t you think? Treat Yourself: This Halloween you can do more than just sneak a few pieces of your kids’ candy. Our chefs have conjured some very special treats for Halloween, including chocolate cake with pumpkin filling, spider cakes and “Spooky Juice.” These sweets are of course in addition to the assortment of desserts and special beverages you can indulge in throughout your cruise, so it’s a good thing we don’t count calories on vacation! Those of you who have sailed with us for Halloween on the High Seas in years past, what suggestions do you have for first timers? View the full article

Disneyland Resort cast member Paul Solis has been a Disney College Program instructor since the program’s inception at the Disneyland Resort 10 years ago. In his role, Paul is able to help Disney College Program interns in their personal and professional development through fun and engaging courses and activities. The Disney College Program is a unique opportunity for college students each semester to live, learn and earn while working and taking classes at the Disneyland Resort. Learn more about Paul’s role and the Disney College Program in this “Every Role a Starring Role!” View the full article

We know, we know… Back-to-School time is fast approaching (and in some spots, it’s already arrived!). But the lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer aren’t quite over just yet, so we’ve still got some summer celebrating to do! And, hey, the coming of Fall isn’t so bad, anyway. Not when we’ve got our very favorite autumnal event coming to the first stop on our tour in a matter of weeks. That’s why we’re kicking things off at Epcot to see What’s New! Epcot Food & Wine Festival Coming Soon! The 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival will be here before we know it! Sure signs of its return are starting to appear around the park… Epcot Food & Wine Festival Coming SOON!! … as in, like, literal signs . Have you checked out the full list of Booth Menus to start strategizing your noshing plans yet?! It’s never too soon… the Festival starts on September 14th! Future World The dessert case at Sunshine Seasons has some fun new treats tucked inside. Sunshine Seasons entrance These include Lemon Berry Mousse, Mocha Roulade… Lemon Berry Mousse Mocha Roulade …and — our personal favorite — a Mickey Oreo Cheesecake! Mickey Oreo Cheesecake Mickey Oreo Cheesecake There’s only a little time left to take part in the Refillable Popcorn Bucket program at the Disney World Parks, but it might be good to know that you can refill it with Specialty Flavors at the Gourmet Popcorn Stand in Future World before the program wraps on September 1st. Gourmet Popcorn Stand Menu Cheddar Cheese, Buffalo Bleu Cheese, and Sour Cream and Chive are the extra yummy options here! And don’t forget that the cast members will likely mix the flavors for you if you’d like! Our favorite? Buffalo Bleu and Sour Cream and Chive mixed!!! World Showcase Visit the Gelato Stand in the Italy Pavilion to try the new Cannoli Cupcake. Italy’s Gelato Stand It’s a beauty of a deconstructed cupcake topped with a mini cannoli! Cannoli Cupcake Read all about it here! Staying in Italy, the Truffled Fettuccine Carbonara has made it to main menu at Via Napoli. Via Napoli Via Napoli Menu There’s still a little time left to enjoy the August Special — a Zignum Tonic — in Mexico’s La Cava del Tequila. La Cava del Tequila August Specials sign Don’t forget that — with the debut of the Frozen Ever After attraction in the Norway Pavilion — Kringla Bakeri og Kafe now opens at 9:00 am. Kringla Bakeri og Kafe Some of the more recent offerings for breakfast include an Egg and Leek Pastry and Jarlsberg and Onion Biscuit. Egg and Leek Pastry Jarlsberg and Onion Biscuit And though it’s not available just yet, here’s some advance notice that the terrific team at L’Artisan des Glaces is busy working on a new flavor. How does Vanilla with swirls of Chocolate and Peanut Butter Fudge and Peanut Pralines sound to you ? @artisandesglaces Instagram ‘Cuz I think I’m all in. While we wait for that ice cream creation to make its debut, why don’t we hop on the Monorail in the meantime over to… Magic Kingdom Adventureland If you’re planning on paying a visit to the World Famous Jungle Cruise Skippers at the Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen, you’ll find a few new options on the menu. Skipper Canteen Entrance Sustainable Fish Collar has been replaced by Shiriki Noodle Salad under the Appetizers. Jungle Skipper Canteen Menu For Entree choices, Whole Fried Fish is available as well (and there’s a new name for the Skip’s Mac and Cheese, which is now called Skip’s Beefy Baked Pasta). Jungle Skipper Canteen Menu Jungle Skipper Canteen Menu You’ll find Quick Sand!!! (a Jasmine Rice Pudding dish) on the Dessert Menu, taking the place of the Sugar Crusted Congee Pudding. The biggest change, however, might be to the items under the Kids’ Entrees, where Chef Tandaji’s Crispy Chicken (sweet and sour chicken, essentially) can be found instead of Annie’s Housemade Arepas. The Backside of the Menu Fantasyland and New Fantasyland Check out this simple but gorgeous Mickey Caramel Apple covered with Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt we found at Big Top Treats! Mickey Dark Chocolate and Sea Salt Caramel Apple We also spotted Cast Members making the new Elliot Caramel Apples in honor of the release of the live-action film version of Pete’s Dragon. Making the Elliot Apples He’s SO CUTE!! (But kiiiiiind of looks like a pig from Angry Birds?) Elliot Apple Sausage and Pepper Flatbread can now be found among the Flatbread Pizza options at Pinocchio Village Haus. Pinocchio Village Haus Menu Liberty Square Columbia Harbour House is one of the select restaurants currently listing calorie counts on the menu. Columbia Harbour House Menu Columbia Harbour House Menu Though you’ll only find the calorie counts in just a few spots while it’s in testing, here’s something you’ll see at Columbia Harbour House that you can also find in MANY other locations… the Crush Sipper Cup — take a closer look here! Crush Sipper Cup We first saw him at The Mara in Animal Kingdom Lodge, but he’s been seen at several Counter Service restaurants such as Art of Animation Resort’s Landscape of Flavors, and various nosh spots at Typhoon Lagoon Water Park… ‘cuz, you know, where else would a surfing sea turtle want to hang ten? Crush Sipper Cup A Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel is currently available at Sleepy Hollow Refreshments. Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel Look for our review of this new Stuffed Pretzel option (it joins the Ham and Cheese-stuffed Pretzel) soon! Sausage and Cheddar-stuffed Pretzel Tomorrowland Hot on the heels of several new menu items at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe comes one more… Cosmic Ray’s Sign …and I must say I’m rather intrigued by the new Falafel Burger. Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe Menu Frontierland Aaaaand for dessert, Red Velvet Cake is now available at Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe. Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe Menu Next stop? Animal Kingdom Remember when the word came out that Animal Kingdom would no longer serve Turkey Legs? Well, that was true… for a time. But THEY’RE BACK! Jumbo Turkey Leg Find Turkey Legs served with chips under the Entrees at Quality Beverages. Quality Beverages This is a fairly well hidden spot, by the way. Just head towards Local Food Cafes (the Yak & Yeti Counter Service option) in Asia, and find the understated express window tucked to the right to find your Turkey Leg! Local Food Cafes has had a bit of a change-up of its own. Local Food Cafes Keep an eye out for our review of the new American Kobe Beef Cheeseburger and American Kobe Beef Hot Dog on the menu! Local Food Cafes Menu American Kobe Beef Hot Dog American Kobe Beef Cheeseburger New sips at the Yak & Yeti Restaurant include the Kiwi Kimono (Parrot Bay Coconut Rum, Don Q Cristal Rum, banana liqueur and tropical fruit juices), the Rickshaw Rickie (Skyy Vodka, Cointreau, muddled oranges and limes with Sprite), and the Dalacini Mine Cart (Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey, Disaronno, and lemonade with Monin Desert Pear Syrup). Yak and Yeti Restaurant Yak and Yeti Menu And at Nomad Lounge you’ll now find a selection of Artisanal Cheeses on the menu along with the Tiffins Bread Service (which has been offered previously, but is now officially on the menu). Nomad Lounge Small Bites Menu Have you visited this still-new lounge yet? It’s something of a stunner… Nomad Lounge Nomad Lounge Outdoor Seating Nomad Lounge Specialty Cocktails Our final park stop? It’s… Hollywood Studios So long, Toluca Legs Turkey Co.… Hello, Sunshine Day Cafe! Sunshine Day Cafe ‘Tis true. Turkey Legs are no more at Hollywood Studios…. for now, at any rate. Replacing Toluca Legs Turkey Co. is the Sunshine Day Cafe. Like Toluca, it will remain a seasonal spot (operating on peak crowd days) kicking off the offerings at Sunset Ranch Market. During our visit to Sunset Ranch Market, we tried the new Baked Potatoes at Fairfax Fare. Fairfax Fare The Loaded Baked Potato you see on the right is somewhat eclipsed by the Fairfax ONE POUND Baked Potato. One Pound Potato and Loaded Potato It’s topped with a whole heap of Beef Tri-tip, brown gravy, and cheddar cheese. Check it out! Fairfax One Pound Baked Potato These are the things keeping us occupied at Hollywood Studios while we eagerly await PizzeRizzo. The concept art for this Muppet-themed pizzeria based on none other then Rizzo the Rat can now be seen on the construction walls surrounding what was formerly Toy Story Pizza Planet. PizzeRizzo Coming Soon! Look for PizzeRizzo to open later this year! Disney Springs Heads up, Earl of Sandwich fans! The Cannonballs Sandwich is back for a LIMITED TIME! @DisneySprings Twitter Account I know where I’m headed for lunch. How about you ? Although, maybe you’re in the mood for pizza instead. If so, be sure to stop by Blaze Fast-Fire’d Pizza, which opened in the Town Center of Disney Springs on August 5th! Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza Check out our review of the newest Disney Springs dining joint here! White Top Pizza And don’t forget your S’more Pie! S’more Pie But if by chance you do, you can pick up a box of S’mores Chocolates from The Ganachery. S’mores at The Ganachery The Boathouse has added a Pimento Cheese starter and the Boathouse Barbecue Bacon Cheeseburger to the menu. The Boathouse The Boathouse Menu Morimoto Asia is now offering a prix fixe Lunch Set. Morimoto Asia It includes Miso Soup and a House Salad with choice of a California Roll or white or brown rice, plus your choice of four select entrees accompanied by dumplings and pickled seasonal vegetables. Morimoto Asia Lunch Set Menu Stop by the Bongos Cuban Cafe Express window to check out two new Flatbreads — Cheese and Lechon (topped with sweet plantains drizzled with organic honey) or the new Cuban Roasted Pork Sandwich. Bongos Cuban Cafe Express And I’m loving the option for the new Cuban Party Box, which includes a Ham Croquette, a Hand-breaded Stuffed Potato with Beef, a Mini Cuban Sandwich, and a Guava Pastry… all for $12. Bongos Cuban Cafe Express Menu After your meal at the Express, you can make a quick stop inside the Bongos Cuban Cafe retail store to pick up a bag of Estefan Kitchen Cuban Coffee to enjoy at home. @DisneySprings Twitter Account Before we leave Disney Springs, let’s take a Sneak Peek INSIDE the upcoming Paddlefish restaurant, thanks to the Paddlefish Twitter account. @PaddlefishORL Twitter They’re busy getting ready for a late November opening! Resorts Refillable Resort Mugs Have you heard about the redesign of the Refillable Resort Mugs? They’re handle-free! Handle-free Refillable Resort Mug Though they haven’t yet hit all the shelves at all the Resort Counter Service restaurants, we’ve been informed that it’s highly likely that once the current supply of mugs with handles runs out, they will all be restocked with handle-free cups moving forward. Find out all about it here. Disney’s BoardWalk AlakaZAM! AbracadaBar has opened up on Disney’s BoardWalk! AbracadaBar It features Enchanting Elixirs such as Pepper’s Ghost and Curious Concoctions like the Seashore Sweet… all in a magical setting conjuring one of the coolest backstories of any bar in Disney World. Pepper’s Ghost Seashore Sweet Curious? Find out more by clicking here. You can walk directly from AbracadaBar into the recently reopened and refurbished Flying Fish where both the restaurant and the menu have received a pretty major makeover. Flying Fish Main Dining Room Flying Fish Chandelier The Kurobuta Pork Belly, A Tour of the Coast, and the Ocean’s Bounty Sustainable Fish entree were just a few of the new dishes we tried. Kurobuta Pork Belly A Tour of the Coast Oceans Bounty Sustainable Fish — Alaskan Halibut Find out what else we ate — and what we think of the new digs and dishes — here! And the final stop of our BoardWalk stroll is one of our favorite spots: the Boardwalk Bakery, where the Coconut Lime and Passion Fruit Cupcake is the current specialty offering. Coconut Lime and Passion Fruit Cupcake Yacht and Beach Club Enjoy your Soup of the Day or Clam Chowder at the Beach Club Marketplace in a Bread Bowl! Bread Bowl sign Click here to read our review of the Clam Chowder in a Bread Bowl. Clam Chowder in Bread Bowl And next door at the Yacht Club, the breakfast options at Ale & Compass Lounge have been amped up with the inclusion of a Breakfast Sandwich and Wrap, along with Mickey Waffles. Ale and Compass Sign Ale and Compass Breakfast Menu And don’t forget to indulge in the new specialty french fry dishes at Beaches and Cream! Gravy Fries Swan and Dolphin Staying nearby at the Swan and Dolphin Resort? You may want to take home a 6-pack of the exclusive — and locally-brewed — Phins & Feathers Pale Ale, since you can only find it at the Swan and Dolphin! Phins & Feathers sign Phins & Feathers Pale Ale Port Orleans Resorts — French Quarter and Riverside Guests at Port Orleans French Quarter will continue to have access to the Temporary Quick Service option while Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory continues its refurbishment into the fall. Temporary Food Court Menu at Port Orleans French Quarter Temporary Food Court Menu at Port Orleans French Quarter One bonus of the temp space? Coke Freestyle machines! Coke Freestyle Machines And French Quarter guests can also take the pleasant walk down the Sassagoula River to Port Orleans — Riverside, where a Bayou Burger topped with Chopped Braised Prime Rib, Abita Beer Fondue, and house-made pickles on an onion roll can be enjoyed at Riverside Mill Food Court. Riverside Mill Food Court Bayou Burger YUM!!!! All Star Resorts End Zone Food Court at All Star Sports Resort is serving up Mickey Gelato Sundaes, which made their debut at the neighboring All Star Music when Intermission Food Court reopened after a refurbishment in 2014. Gelato and Smoothie Menu Two scoops of your choice of gelato and toppings paired up with a Mickey Waffle… SCORE! Mickey Gelato Sundae And new to the bakery case are S’mores Bread Pudding and a Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll. Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll Maple Bacon Cinnamon Roll S’mores Bread Pudding The Create-Your-Own Burger option has been replaced with an American Classic Burger. Burger Menu Personally, though, I would make my way next door to Intermission Food Court for the new Pub Burger. Intermission Food Court at All-Star Music It’s topped with onion strings, fried pickle, and house-made beer cheese served on a Pretzel Roll! Burger and Hot Dog Menu You can also find Red Wine Braised Short Ribs on the list for Dinner. Dinner Entrees Oh, and if you’re missing the King Cupcake that used to be at Everything Pop as much as we are, you can find a version of it at All Star Music on DJ Wednesdays when they serve their own version! DJ Wednesday Alas, no candied bacon, but they claim it’s a Peanut Butter and Banana Cupcake fit for a King! Peanut Butter and Banana Cupcake Contemporary Resort If you walk up to the bakery case at Contempo Cafe and DON’T spy any cupcakes inside… fret not! Contempo Cafe Contempo Cafe Bakery Case It’s just because they’ve been given their very own ENTIRE REFRIGERATOR! Cupcake Fridge! The Cupcake Fridge is where you’ll find the Turtle Cupcake — a caramel cupcake with chocolate pecan filling and caramel chocolate icing — through Aug 27th. Turtle Cupcake Say “Hi” to Squirt from us! Wow! The summer fun never does stop around these parts, does it? But even if you’re next trip is still months away, no worries! After all, no matter when you return to Disney World, it’s just like the sign at Ample Hills Creamery reminds us: “It’s Always Ice Cream Weather Here” As always, thanks for joining us! And until next time, Eat and Be Happy! Have you spotted anything new during a recent trip around the World? We’d love to hear about it in 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: What’s New Around Walt Disney World: July 19, 2016 What’s New Around Walt Disney World: May 13, 2016 What’s New Around Walt Disney World — June 14, 2016 View the full article

In the summer of 1956, a new counter-service dining location opened just to the west of Sleeping Beauty Castle. Plaza Gardens soon added a covered dance pavilion with a bandstand where Disneyland park guests could enjoy performing groups and school bands by day, while Friday and Saturday nights became “Date Nites” at Disneyland with all the energy of a swinging dance hall. The Elliott Brothers Orchestra, shown here performing while Annette Funicello dances, became a fixture at Plaza Gardens and helped establish it as a popular swing and big band music venue in Southern California. Even Walt Disney, himself, was known to hit the dance floor. Here, Walt tries out the electric organ at Plaza Gardens. In the years that followed, some of the biggest names in music called the Carnation Plaza Gardens stage home, including Count Basey, Frank Sinatra Jr., Duke Ellington, Mel Torme, Lionel Hampton and the Osmond Brothers. This photo, taken backstage at Carnation Plaza Gardens in 2004, shows many of the signs created for the bands that performed there throughout the years. Since Fantasy Faire debuted in 2013 at the same location once occupied by Carnation Plaza Gardens, a new Disneyland park tradition has begun with the Royal Swing Big Band Ball in the Royal Theatre on select Saturday nights during the summer, and at the Downtown Disney stage, you can enjoy swing music on select weekend nights. View the full article

#DisneyGrandMoments – A Day to Remember at Disney's Hollywood Studios View the full article

Orlando’s Planet Hollywood was at one time one of the highest-grossing restaurants in the United States. The celebrity-themed restaurant hopes to return to that position in Disney Springs, a dining and entertainment complex that used to be called Downtown Disney. Planet Hollywood has been closed... View the full article

Everything old is new again as Walt Disney World launches a vintage apparel collection called "YesterEars," available for purchase online now at the Disney Store. The name of the collection was "inspired by a shop with the same name once found at the former Downtown Disney Pleasure Island," according... View the full article

Everything old is new again as Walt Disney World launches a vintage apparel collection called "YesterEars," available for purchase online now at the Disney Store. The name of the collection was "inspired by a shop with the same name once found at the former Downtown Disney Pleasure Island," according... View the full article

WHAT: Joe Kaminski is a self-taught painter whose portraits are of some of the most famous subjects in the world. The copywriter at Disney's Yellow Shoes Creative Group has been the signature artist at the company's Festival of the Masters half a dozen times. His paintings of Mickey and the gang... View the full article

Disney has reportedly made a change to the pre-show video of Rock 'n' Roller Coaster starring Aerosmith, removing what some referred to as a "crude" hand gesture given by Steven Tyler. The longstanding Disney's Hollywood Studios attraction has taken heat online in the past for Tyler's thumb-to-ring... View the full article