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Guest Author, AM Appleby recently visited the NEW Oasis Bar and Grill at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort in Walt Disney World. Aloha! Thanks for the review AM!! I had the opportunity to check out the new Oasis Pool and Oasis Bar & Grill during a recent stay with my family at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This has been our favorite resort since our first stay in 2008. We’ve watched this area transform over the years, but have to say the latest metamorphosis is the best. Oasis Main Entrance The Oasis officially opened March 17, 2016, and its hours are 11am to 11pm. Although the main theme pool at the Polynesian usually gets all the love, the newly renovated Oasis Pool will undoubtedly have its own loyal following. Polynesian Map Centrally located and nestled between the Rarotonga, Niue, Samoa, Hawaii, and Tokelau longhouses, the Oasis is aptly named. The Polynesian is well known for its lush tropical landscaping, and no landscaping expense was spared at Oasis, which has a calm, relaxed atmosphere. Lush Landscaping The pool features a zero entry and maximum depth of 4.9 feet, and there are ample lounge chairs and umbrellas to ensure a relaxed afternoon. There are also three cabanas, each with a cushioned sofa and chairs, and are currently available on a first-come, first-served basis, but that is likely to change. Cabanas A large hot tub is secluded in the far right corner of the pool deck. Hot Tub The feature that truly separates the Oasis from the Lava Pool is the Oasis Grill and Bar. The menu is large, varied, and sticks with the Polynesian theme. Oasis Grill The Grill opens at 11am and serves the full menu until 5pm. From 5pm until 8pm they serve a smaller selection of the menu. The kids’ menu offers a Maui Burger and Grilled Sustainable Fish Taco, along with standard kids’ fare. Oasis Menu Front Oasis Menu Back Menu Board There is a drink refill station and condiment bar located on the right side of the Grill. Drink Refill Station Condiment Station After placing your order, you receive a numbered stand to place on your table. There are 10 covered tables that seat 4, with nice cushioned chairs, located in front of the bar and grill, but servers will deliver your meal anywhere on the pool deck. Table Number Cushioned Chairs Covered Seating I chatted with the friendly bartenders, Nathan and Susan, while I waited. One glance at the bar menu and I had to hear about the Polynesian Bloody Mary. It’s made with Pau Maui handmade vodka (distilled from Hawaiian pineapples in Maui), Sriracha sauce, and pickle juice. Sold! It was vibrant and fresh with a nice kick from the Sriracha. Meet Nathan Polynesian Bloody Mary The table delivery is not only convenient, but the food is packed in takeaway boxes, including napkins and plastic ware. Our order was ready in 10 minutes. The Spinach and Watermelon Salad with honey-lime vinaigrette was light, the melon was crisp and perfectly ripe, and the sweet and citrusy dressing was a perfect accompaniment. Spinach and Watermelon Salad The luscious Seasonal Tropical Fruit Plate had pineapple, strawberries, star fruit, dragon fruit, banana, and papaya with a mango-mint yogurt dip, and was devoured by my fruit-loving 12-year-old son! Seasonal Tropical Fruit Plate As sushi lovers, we were excited to try the Sashimi of Tuna, Salmon, and Hamachi. It was fresh and flavorful, what you expect when you order sushi at the Polynesian. Sashimi of Tuna, Salmon, and Hamachi Before you begin to wonder why on earth we were eating such healthy fare on vacation, next up was the Teriyaki-Glazed Angus Chuck Burger, topped with Pork Belly and Grilled Pineapple. One bite and I completely understood why it was a favorite among cast members! The sweet pineapple with the salty pork atop a grilled burger was absolutely delicious! A must try! Teriyaki-Glazed Angus Chuck Burger Chef Carlos shared that gluten free buns are available for any of the sandwiches, both of the salads are also gluten free, and that new things are still being added to the menu. We had the Malasadas for dessert, which are Portuguese doughnuts served with a passion fruit curd. (See? I was just getting the healthy stuff out of the way!) By themselves, they were lightly sweetened, and for someone who isn’t a fan of super sugary desserts, these were a hit for me. Even the dip was light and added just a bit of sweetness. Malasadas The next day we tried the Chili-Spiced Asian Sticky Wings and the Grilled Sustainable Fish Tacos. Both were a hit with my family. The wings were sweet and crispy outside, topped with a Togarashi spice blend, and were tender and juicy inside. I think they were gone in 5 minutes, with lots of “ooos” and “umms” from my kids! Chili-Spiced Asian Sticky Wings The fish tacos did not last long either. The fish was seasoned with a blend of cumin, chili powder, salt and pepper, and topped with cabbage and a cilantro lime cream. They were very flavorful and I loved the combination of textures: soft tortilla, mildly spicy fish, and the crunch of the cabbage. Grilled Sustainable Fish Tacos Back to the bar… The featured cocktail menu carries over from the Barefoot Pool Bar, located at the Lava Pool, with the addition of the (previously enjoyed!) Polynesian Bloody Mary. Bartender Cris said the bar was inspired by the one at Disney’s Aulani Resort. The Lava Flow, Niue Rita, and Pago Pago Painkiller are specialty drinks created by bartender Steve, who has been at Barefoot for 16 years. I love the Lava Flow on a hot day. Its made with Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum, Sammy Hagar’s rum made with Maui Gold sugar cane, and blended with Pina Colada and strawberry puree. Perfect for the person who can’t decide between a Strawberry Daiquiri and a Pina Colada. Featured Cocktails The entire Oasis is gated, so unlike the Barefoot Pool Bar (which has a window outside of the gate to accommodate thirsty visitors), only guests staying at the Polynesian have access to the Oasis amenities. However, with all of the wonderful drinking and dining options available at this resort, including Trader Sam’s, Tambu Lounge, and Kona Island, you’re not likely to be parched or hungry for long. And if you stop by Barefoot, tell Steve I said Aloha! Share your thoughts on the new Oasis Bar & Grill! 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: Hawaiian Shaved Ice at Kona Island in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Photo Tour: Reopened Barefoot Pool Bar and Volcano Pool at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Friday Happy Hour: Lava Flow at the Barefoot Pool Bar at Polynesian Village Resort View the full article

"Zootopia" Characters - "Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It!" | Walt Disney World View the full article

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. That's the case with the updated park maps for Disney's Hollywood Studios. The map shows just how much has changed in recent years. Hollywood Studios has removed major attractions like the Studio Backlot Tour, Magic of Disney Animation and... View the full article

As the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words. That's the case with the updated park maps for Disney's Hollywood Studios. The map shows just how much has changed in recent years. Hollywood Studios has removed major attractions like the Studio Backlot Tour, Magic of Disney Animation and... View the full article

Walt Disney World has announced its latest upcharge event, in which visitors who pay an extra $69 can enter the Magic Kingdom before everyone else. Disney called the package "a new option perfect for families who want to get an early start at Magic Kingdom Park." It means guests will get quick... View the full article

Good Morning, Sunshine! A new extra-ticket event has appeared on the Walt Disney World website. Early Morning Magic will give early risers a chance to enter the Magic Kingdom before regular park hours to experience three Fantasyland attractions along with breakfast at Pinocchio Village Haus. From 7:45 am – 10:00 am on select Tuesdays and Saturdays beginning April 26th (according to the dates currently available for booking on the website), guests will be part of the first people to enter the park and will have access to The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, and Peter Pan’s Flight. The event is currently bookable on DisneyWorld.com through June 2016. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Since Pinocchio Village Haus is typically only open for lunch and dinner, you may be wondering what’s on the menu. Pinocchio Village Haus From 8:30 – 10:00 am, guests will be able to “get their fill” of items such as Cheese and Cured Meats, Scrambled Eggs with assorted toppings, Vegetable Frittata, Smoked Bacon, Pork and Turkey Sausages, Fried Potatoes with caramelized onions, and Waffles with butter and syrup, as well as Pastries, Seasonal Fruit and Berries, and juices, coffee and teas. Disney Early Morning Magic is available with the purchase of a separate ticket (in addition to regular park admission, which is also required). The cost for the extra event is $69 per adult, and $59 for children (not including tax). Please note that, according the Disney World website, “Around 9:00 AM, the theme park will open to Guests with regular Magic Kingdom admission tickets and event-only attraction access will end.” Interested guests may book the experience via the Walt Disney World website, or call (407) 827-7350. Will you be participating in Extra Morning Magic in New Fantasyland? 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 and Review: Pesto Knots at Magic Kingdom’s Pinocchio Village Haus News! Epcot Food and Wine Festival Early Booking Details for Chase Disney Visa Cardmembers News! Disneyland Jungle Cruise Sunrise Safari Breakfast Booking NOW! View the full article

Fantasyland looks even more magical in the golden light of morning, and now Disney Early Morning Magic presents a new option perfect for families who want to get an early start at Magic Kingdom Park. The Disney Early Morning Magic package will allow a very limited number of guests to be among the first to enter Magic Kingdom Park to enjoy a hearty breakfast and experience a trio of favorite Fantasyland attractions. Breakfast at Pinocchio Village Haus will feature seasonal fruits, fresh-baked pastries, scrambled eggs, veggie frittatas, smoked bacon, pork and turkey sausages, waffles and much more. And during their special time in the park, Guests will also have quick access to Peter Pan’s Flight, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh. Disney Early Morning Magic requires a separate ticket – $69 for adults and $59 for children ages 3-9 (plus tax) – in addition to your regular theme park admission. Disney Early Morning Magic will take place on select dates from 7:45-10 a.m., beginning April 26. (Note: Disney Early Morning Magic will be offered on different dates than Extra Magic Hours.) To learn more or book, click here. View the full article

We typically use this Wildlife Wednesday series as a forum to inspire our readers to care about animals and the conservation efforts we lead and support to save animals from extinction. Sadly, many of these animals are in danger because of the actions of humans around the world. Did you know, for example, that sea turtles have been around for more than 100 million years, and it’s only within the last 100 years that their numbers have dropped dramatically? The good news is that while humans may have helped create this crisis, we also can take action to turn things around to save both animals and our environment. It’s Earth Month, so it’s the perfect time to take action! Across Walt Disney Parks and Resorts, our cast members take part in festivities all month long, to celebrate an annual tradition that recognizes our company’s longstanding commitment to conserve resources and protect nature. Here are a few small actions you can take to help animals in your own backyard and around the world, while helping protect the planet for future generations. Support fishing practices that are safer for sea turtles, sharks and rays by choosing sustainable seafood options. If you live near a beach, turn off your lights when you don’t need them. Artificial light sources can disrupt sea turtle nesting. Even if you don’t live near sea turtle nesting grounds, saving electricity is a smart practice that helps conserve natural resources like coal and gas. Use paper responsibly. Paper products are made of pulp from forest trees that wildlife need to survive. Choose recycled content and/or sustainably certified paper products, and reduce the amount of items you print and copy by going electronic. Reduce waste in your own backyard by recycling cans, paper and plastics and choose reusable products to use in your everyday lives instead of disposable ones. Saying no thank you to plastic bags and carrying a reusable bag instead is a great way to reduce waste and lessen impacts on your local ecosystem. Build a backyard habitat for animals out of existing items. You can make pots out of repurposed materials, and then plant native flowers that attract butterflies. Thank you for caring enough about nature to make those small changes. View the full article

On Saturday, April 30, 2016, Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, will once again be the featured venue for the Ko Olina Children’s Film & Music Festival. The annual event features a lineup of beloved animated and live action classics from The Walt Disney Studios and Pixar Studios, live stage performances, video and music recording studios, balloon artists, face painting and more! And as the festival finale, guests will be treated to a screening of “Big Hero 6” on the beachfront lagoon at sunset. In its third year, the Ko Olina Children’s Film & Music Festival is a benefit for the Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children (KMCWC), Hawaii’s leader in the care of women, infants and children. Click here for more information and to buy tickets! View the full article

New Nighttime Magic at the Tree of Life | Disney's Animal Kingdom View the full article

Whether striking an icy powers-pose or blooming vibrantly, some of the most popular eye-catchers to Epcot this spring are the topiaries. These living works of art feature beloved Disney characters and beautiful representations of the season. While you may not need the full-size Ranger Mickey at home, here’s a DIY guide to help you create your own topiary for your yard or tabletop. Add your personal flair with dried mosses to create definition. Try different plants and flowers to make faces, hair and accessories. And of course if you need more inspiration, you can visit the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival until May 30. Have you made your own topiaries inspired by the Festival? Tell us about it! View the full article

Captain Phasma, the popular chrome-clad female stormtrooper from "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," headlines a new processional at Disney's Hollywood Studios. The processional, known as Captain Phasma’s First Order Stormtrooper March, starts from Star Wars Launch Bay before making its way to the... View the full article

Ever wonder which personality traits of Walt Disney are represented at each Magic Kingdom Park land? Or his inspiration for the groundbreaking Audio-Animatronics that became a hallmark of Walt’s world-renowned theme parks? It may have started with a mouse, as they say, but Walt was a complex, talented, driven person. Discover the man on Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour, a three-hour walking tour that makes the magic come alive. Learn about Walt’s upbringing, when he discovered his burgeoning talents, how his family influenced him, the huge impact of his work from the 1964 New York World’s Fair, the evolution of attractions, the challenges of designing and implementing these fantastical experiences and so much more. But even someone as visionary as Walt Disney doesn’t work in a vacuum. Get special insight on early Imagineers’ and other trailblazers’ influence and input on beloved attractions. All the while, your affable, expert guide answers your questions while imparting info, trivia, behind-the-scenes secrets and more—sometimes while you experience attractions firsthand. And a special surprise awaits those who take this rich, fascinating tour. Walt Disney: Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour is offered daily and begins at 8 a.m. at Town Square Theater in Magic Kingdom Park. Itineraries and experiences may vary. The tour is geared toward adults, but guests as young as 12 are welcome. The cost is $35 per person, plus tax (theme park admission not included). Call 407-WDW-TOUR (939-8687) for reservations and info. View the full article

When my good friend and fellow Disney Parks Blog author Rachel Bshero shared the news about the Disney California Adventure Food & Wine Festival taking place weekends in April, I couldn’t have been more excited! I knew at that point exactly what I needed to do — dig deep and get all the details on the commemorative merchandise set to debut from our talented team of merchandisers. Here’s a look at some of this year’s selections, which are surely a recipe for success! Look for themed apparel including an adult tee, women’s tee and one created specifically for our Disneyland Resort Annual Passholders. Tip: The specially created tee will only be available in-park at Studio Store located in Hollywood Land. Passholders must present a valid Disneyland Resort Annual Passport and government-issued photo I.D. at time of purchase. Also available will be a commemorative baseball cap and kitchen accessories that include an apron and dish towel set. Is that it? Not quite. Debuting along with this collection is a stemmed wine glass as well as an appetizer plate, which is perfect to carry some of the Festival Marketplace offerings and savory cuisines and creations produced right here in the Golden State. So be sure to add some flavor to your collection this year! These items and more will be available at select locations throughout Disney California Adventure park, including Studio Store located in Hollywood Land and Trolley Treats located on Buena Vista Street. Be sure to keep an eye out for special appearances and signings by some of our Disney-inspired artists. And Rachel – I promise to take you shopping, if you will allow me to join you for a taste of some of the amazing offerings that will be available this year! View the full article

Disney Vacation Club 25 and Beyond Bash | Walt Disney World View the full article

With the expansion of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, we’re excited to give Guests even more opportunities to celebrate the magic of animals and nature as day turns into night. While we’d hoped to debut these offerings on April 22, unfortunately, they will not open as planned on that date as we give the team more time to bring these innovative experiences to life in a way we know will exceed our guests’ expectations. We’ll share more information about timing on the Disney Parks Blog by mid- to late May. We checked in recently during rehearsals of two key elements of the nighttime experience at Disney’s Animal Kingdom: the dramatic water and light show Rivers of Light, and the new nighttime magic at the Tree of Life. This image from a recent rehearsal of Rivers of Light illustrates a bit of the beauty and complexity of this innovative blend of water, light and original music that brings with it so many firsts. This video of the iconic Tree of Life shows how the centerpiece of Disney’s Animal Kingdom will truly come alive with swirling animated imagery that tells enchanting stories from nature. We apologize for any inconvenience and look forward to debuting these new offerings. We hope you agree that they look worth the wait! View the full article

The debut of "Rivers of Light," a nighttime spectacular planned for Disney's Animal Kingdom, has been delayed. The show was scheduled to begin at the theme park on April 22. Other new attractions, including an after-dark version of the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris, that were set to premiere that... View the full article

The debut of "River of Light," a nighttime spectacular planned for Disney's Animal Kingdom, has been delayed. The show was scheduled to begin at the theme park on April 22. Other new attractions, including an after-dark version of the popular Kilimanjaro Safaris, that were set to premiere that... View the full article

Washington state siblings were distraught after finding out that their alleged trip to see their grandma was actually a trip to Disneyland. A Lake Stevens, Wash., couple thought a Disneyland trip would be the ultimate spring break surprise, Q13 Fox TV reports. But when they broke the news to their... View the full article

For those keeping track of changes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios this week, there’s one more to add to the list. You already likely know that the construction of Toy Story Land and Star Wars Land is now officially underway, as evidenced by the very recent closure of Streets of America fixtures such as Studio Catering Co. and the Lights! Motors! Action Extreme Stunt Show to make way for the new ventures. Construction Walls Blocking the Streets of America But what about Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano? It was always part of the former Streets of America section of the park, and yet it’s still in operation. (Yay!) Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano Well, it’s now part of the newly renamed Muppets Courtyard! The new name of this area of the park is revealed in the updated Guide Map for Disney’s Hollywood Studios (it’s listed on the bottom right of the shot below). Muppets Courtyard on Hollywood Studios Updated Guide Map You’ll also spot, naturally, the Muppet Vision 3D attraction listed in the same section (you know, the movie that ends with “a salute to all nations, but mostly America.” ). Hollywood Studios Updated Guide Map Closeup on Muppets Courtyard on the Hollywood Studios Updated Guide Map All this, of course, lends a WHOLE LOTTA credence to the rumors that the closing of Toy Story Pizza Planet will result in a Muppets-themed restaurant when it reopens in late 2016. Of course, there was already plenty of support for the rumors, thanks to the fun construction walls surrounding the restaurant obviously inspired by Muppet-style humor. Walls surrounding Pizza Planet Walls surrounding Pizza Planet Rumor ALSO has it that Mama Melrose will undergo a makeover of its own beginning sometime later this year. Is Muppets theming in the future for Mama Melrose? And will it be a whole new restaurant, or simply an overlay of the Italian eatery as it already exists? We can’t wait to find out! In the meantime, we’re signing off with a big “Wocka, Wocka, Wocka” from the new Muppets Courtyard! What do you think of this “new” section of Disney’s Hollywood Studios? 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: Imagineering Fun: Construction Walls in Disney’s Hollywood Studios (This Post is Not as Boring as it Sounds in the Title) News: Attraction and Dining Closures Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios Photo Tour: Streets of America “Restaurants” in Disney’s Hollywood Studios View the full article

Tiffins, the newest restaurant in the Discovery Island area of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, opens this summer, and the Disney chefs have been hard at work to create inventive dishes inspired by the world travels of the park’s creators. From the familiar to something new, the menu offers something for everyone – from a berbere-spiced lamb chop to a New York strip steak or beef short rib with potatoes. Starters include a Lobster-Popcorn Thai Curry Soup with Basil and Peanuts (Asia/Africa) to marinated grilled octopus (Europe). Sustainable seasonal fish crudo (South America) and a salad of roasted baby beets and goat cheese with walnut granola and a sun-dried cherry vinaigrette Discovery Island (North America) round out international creations. Entrées include Berber-Spiced Lamb Chop with Mustard Greens, Lentil Stew and Mint Chutney (Africa); Berkshire Pork Tenderloin with Huitlacoche Tamale, Hominy Succotash and Red Mole Sauce (South America); Miso-glazed Black Cod with Forbidden Rice in Steamed Bok Choy with Turmeric Sauce (Asia), and Grilled Head-on Shrimp with Tomatoes, Roasted Fennel, Olives and Sea Urchin Butter Sauce (Europe). For vegetarians, the Roasted Market Vegetable Curry with Quinoa, Zucchini and Lime Chutney brings a taste of Asia. Beverages focus on Africa, Asia and South America, including handcrafted cocktails and beers. Non-alcoholic beverages include exotic-fruit- flavored lemonades, Asian and African premium loose-leaf teas and coffee beans from Columbia, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Tanzania. “With a focus on South American and South African wines, the beverage program is very special – we don’t have another one like it at Disney,” said Master Sommelier Brian Koziol, Food & Beverage Concept and Development director for Disney Parks & Resorts. “The program will focus on environmentality: producers that focus on sustainability, organic wines, and bio-dynamic viticulture,” he explained. “Environmentality is a core value at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and this beverage program is a great way to share that with our guests.” With 55 seats inside, and 46 seats in a covered outdoor area, Nomad Lounge offers a half- dozen small bites such as a vegetarian summer roll, a seared Wagyu beef skewer, honey-glazed coriander-spiced pork ribs, Indian butter-chicken wings, seasonal fish balls with shishito peppers and house-made head cheese and chicken liver pate with chutney. Like Tiffins, the lounge offers handcrafted cocktails with African, Asian and South American flavors, imported beers and a South American and South African wine list. Non-alcoholic beverages include exotic-fruit- flavored lemonades, Asian and African premium loose-leaf teas and coffee beans from Columbia, Ethiopia, Indonesia and Tanzania. Stay tuned to the Disney Parks Blog for further details about Tiffins, including opening date and reservation information. View the full article

National Caramel Day is celebrated on April 5. To commemorate the day, I returned to my favorite place for all things caramel at Epcot, Karamell-Küche in Germany Pavilion. Presented by Werther’s Original, Karamell-Küche (or Caramel Kitchen) is a shop along World Showcase promenade that’s filled with delicious caramel-themed treats. There are pre-packaged goodies from Werther’s Original such creamy caramel-filled hard candy, or flavorful soft caramels made with real butter and fresh cream. My favorite item is the freshly made caramel popcorn. My girlfriend and I love sharing a large bag during an evening stroll around World Showcase (we usually finish it by the time we get to Japan Pavilion). When I arrived at the location to get photographs for this story, the International College Program cast members had just made a fresh batch, and the entire shop was filled with the sweet scent of caramel! The shop also carries pre-packaged popcorn that uses Werther’s Original Signature Caramel. Flavors include caramel popcorn with chocolate flavored drizzle; caramel popcorn with stroopwafel, salted pretzel pearls and chocolate flavored drizzle; and caramel popcorn with roasted pecans and chocolate flavored drizzle. Some of the more unique offerings found at Karamell-Küche are the Caramel Bacon Squares. Each square contains Werther’s Original caramel and bits of bacon both inside and out. Finally, the location is introducing two additional flavored chocolate caramel squares. The first is a lavender flavored square which I photographed on a vintage World Showcase tin tray from the early days of EPCOT Center. The other square will have a blood orange flavor. Both of these flavors are offered seasonally and have limited availability. What’s your favorite treat from Karamell-Küche? Please share in the comments below. View the full article

Well, April 2nd has come and gone, and it was a big day at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Learn About: Writer’s Stop Disney's Hollywood Studios Disney World Restaurants It was the last day guests could enjoy the Lights! Motors! Action! Extreme Stunt Show, or grab a bite to eat at Studio Catering Co., or a sip at High Octane Refreshments. This is all, of course, to make way for construction of the future Lands of Toy Story and Star Wars. Writer’s Stop — a bookstore-meets-coffee-shop also specializing in some of the best bakery treats this side of the Studios — was originally on that same list to close down on April 3rd. However, it got a reprieve of sorts from the ol’ chopping block, and for a limited time it is still in operation… though in a different form than what we’re used to! With many thanks to our Instagram pal, @savepointstu, we were alerted about the new menu. But we also couldn’t resist going over to search everything out ourselves and ask a few questions! What’s being served at Writer’s Stop now? And what is — or WAS — the fate of the spot’s signature item, the Carrot Cake Cookie?!? When we arrived, we noticed the sign still remains, though the location has been taken off of the Hollywood Studios map. This is definitely a time of transition for Writer’s Stop. Writer’s Stop The menu now features three key items: a Charcuterie and Cheese Plate, a Warm Pretzel with Cheese Sauce, and Sugar-Spiced Nuts. Writer’s Stop New Menu Taking over a larger portion of the menu is a selection of alcoholic beverages (though guests not wishing to imbibe can still find soda, bottled water, and your basic coffee — no more espresso specialties). A Frozen Margarita, Pina CoLava, Irish Coffee, and Coffee with Bailey’s or Kahlua make up the cocktails, and a fairly wide variety of beer and wine is also on offer. Beer on Display A bartender rings up and serves drinks and food while another Cast Member is available at the front register to ring up what’s left of the merchandise (primarily kitchen and prepackaged Disney snacks) still being carried at the location. Merchandise Register Kitchenware Merchandise Kitchenware Merchandise So what’s in the famed bakery case of Writer’s Stop now? Well, I can tell you what’s NOT: the Carrot Cake Cookie. BUT, rest assured, my fellow Carrot Cake Cookie Diehards! We made sure to verify that it IS indeed still being sold at Sweet Spells! But back to Writer’s Stop, where the bakery case is now filled with the listed menu items. Bakery Case No more pastries. No more cookies. No more Cheese Danish of Epic Proportions. According to cast members, this spot is being pitched as a Lounge and waiting area for Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater next door as opposed to a destination in and of itself. In fact, doors are open to Sci-Fi and Cast Member hosts even come in the Writer’s Stop to call party names. Doors to Sci-Fi Dine-In In the meantime, waiting guests nosh, sip, or relax in the couches in front of the ol’ TV or at the hightop tables. TV and couches Current Writer’s Stop setup Current Writer’s Stop setup Even though we personally didn’t have an Advance Dining Reservation for Sci-Fi lined up (darn it! ), we still figured we’d show you the new eats. Current Menu Items at Writer’s Stop The first one may look awfully familiar. Because the Warm Pretzel with Cheese Sauce is pretty much a dupe for the Hand-Twisted Pretzel served in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion. Warm Pretzel with Cheese Sauce Soft and chewy with a nice smattering of coarse salt, the only thing super different from its Epcot counterpart is the more upscale serving style. Well, that and the price, which is $5.69 at the Studios (not bad, considering the Cheese Sauce). The Sugar-Spiced Nuts are another “borrow” from several snack stands and kiosks around Disney World, though you’ll typically see them listed as Cinnamon-Glazed Pecans. (You’ll usually also find Glazed Almonds served alongside, but our serving at Writer’s Stop was just pecans.) Sugar-Spiced Nuts You always smell them before you see them, and no matter what time of year I have them, the cinnamon and sugar coating the pecans always reminds me of the holidays. It’s good to know that this sweet and just-a-bit-savory snack is still available at Hollywood Studios. Finally, we also wanted to know what the Charcuterie and Cheese Plate consisted of. And here goes! For $7.49 you get a fairly impressive assortment of Grana Padano, Brie, Gouda, Italian Sausage, Chorizo Sausage, Grapes, Raspberries, Cornichons, and bread. Charcuterie and Cheese Plate It’s also available as a snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan. Seriously. So, THAT’S what’s become of the Writer’s Stop… at least for now. The thing is, the longterm future of Writer’s Stop, according to one of the great Cast Members who work there, is still undecided. There is no telling if this current and very much transitional phase will lead to a more certain future for Writer’s Stop. As it stands, this is a temporary fill until it’s determined whether it’s effective and doable to run a bar and lounge alongside Sci-Fi Dine-In and a final decision is made. As Disney fans have known for some time, major changes are going to be taking place at the park for the foreseeable future. Construction Walls Blocking the Streets of America But one thing’s for sure: the HUGE and much anticipated makeover of Disney’s Hollywood Studios is officially in the works! What do you think of the “new” Writer’s Stop? 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: Cheese Danish at Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios Review: Writer’s Stop at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Rumor: A Second Chance for Writer’s Stop? View the full article

Erik Bauersfeld, who turned three words from a minor acting role — "It's a trap!" — into one of the most beloved lines of the "Star Wars" series, has died. His manager, Derek Maki, says the performer died Sunday at his home in Berkeley, California, at the age of 93. Bauersfeld stayed in radio for... View the full article

Every day, several times a day, Joe Machado tells Mickey Mouse where to go. It's part of the game play in the new Magic Kingdoms app, which allows competitors to build a Disney-esque theme park with attractions from around the world and populate it with characters, from Goofy to a "Toy Story" Green... View the full article