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Happy Super Bowl Sunday! Go teams! No matter who you’re cheering for it’s time to sit back, relax, and enjoy our weekly round-up of the most delicious Disney food news. (I’m a Bills fan, so as long as the Giants, Pats, Cowboys, and Dolphins stay out of the big game, I’m happy ;-D) Warm Peanut Butter Brownie — Cross Section We are still celebrating the grand launch of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 e-book! The Guide is fully updated for 2016 vacations and is available for purchase and download to help you make the most of your dining plans at Walt Disney World! You can use code HAPPYPLACE to get a $4 discount off the cover price! We love answering your questions and this week’s reader question was “Where can we get a good breakfast if we are NOT into characters or buffets?” You can check out our answer here. We have a lot to share with you this week, so let’s jump right in… Disney Food News We love brownies and this week we were talking about the Best Brownies in Walt Disney World! Residents of the Super Bowl States – the Carolinas and Colorado – can get a great deal at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel and residents of the winning team’s state get a free upgrade! Ever wonder what the best one credit restaurants are with the Disney Dining Plan? We have some recommendations. Afternoon tea is coming to the Crescent Solarium at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. We reviewed the Smoky Cheddar Grits at the Smiling Crocodile in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disneyland’s River Belle Terrace is now accepting Advance Dining Reservations! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including menu updates, restaurant closures, special events, and more! We’ve got all the latest for you, so check it out before you go. DFB Reader Finds If you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or about Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! If you like sushi we suggest visiting the Kona Island Sushi Bar at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – it’s a great spot for sushi in the evening. DFB reader Jenn (@FairestRunOfAll) recently shared this photo of some gorgeous sushi! This sushi looks incredible! Afternoon tea at the Grand Floridian’s Garden View Lounge should definitely be on your Disney bucket list. DFB fan Barry Ripley recently enjoyed tea at the Grand Floridian and shared this photo of some of the pastries and strawberries and cream. The strawberries and cream look divine! Do you have a favorite Disney Food find? Share your photos with us! DFB Readers #OnTheList Suggestions As part of our new #OnTheList series we’ll be sharing weekly some of our readers’ suggestions for what they would add to the Disney Food bucket list! Those are great choices!!! Make sure to search #OnTheList on Twitter to see what is on everyone’s Disney food bucket list, plus tweet, instagram, or facebook out your favorites using the hashtag #OnTheList. Be sure to @DisneyFoodBlog! Check out our #OnTheList page to see what’s on OUR Disney Food Bucket List! Deal of the Week: The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 e-book! The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining e-Book is an instantly downloadable PDF guide, featuring over 530 full-color pages of photographs, information, and advice about our favorite subjects — food and dining in Walt Disney World. Order the 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code HAPPYPALCE for $4 off! Our team of Walt Disney World food experts have put together the most comprehensive guide to Walt Disney World food and dining available. With more than 25 years of experience eating and drinking our way through the Parks and Resorts, we’ve learned a thing or two — and we love sharing our secrets with you! Order the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2016 e-Book today, and start planning your Disney dining adventures right now! Here are just a few of the things you’ll find in our DFB to Walt Disney World Dining: A 5-Step Strategy for Disney Dining Planning, covering everything you need to know from budgeting and booking to kids’ meals, dining discounts, and fireworks. A comprehensive and in-depth look at EVERY Disney World restaurant, kiosk, bar, and lounge, including our personal tips to ensure a positive and stress-free dining experience. Four free, downloadable worksheets for planning your trip. These worksheets are designed to help you execute all the steps of planning the perfect Disney dining experience. And they’re reusable for all of your future trips! Seven sample one-day dining itineraries for a head-start on planning. A comprehensive index of bars and lounges. An often under-appreciated option for both dining and entertainment, the e-Book devotes a whole index to the topic. You asked for it, and we wrote it! The ability to be read on your mobile device or computer! It’s fully portable — always just a pocket away! and MORE! Order the 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining today and use promo code HAPPYPLACE for $4 off! The DFB Everything Bundle But for those of you who want to be prepared for EVERYTHING at Disney World, we’re also offering our most popular Bundle, the DFB Everything Bundle, for a special savings as well! This bundle packs in all of our e-Books, including the Guide that started it all — the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining, 2015 edition. And during this special sale, you can get $4 off the already low price when you enter code SAVINGS. This Bundle is priced at a huge discount already — over 40% off the guide prices – representing great savings. But with our extra $4, you’ll save even more. Learn more about the DFB Everything Bundle here. The bundle includes the pre-order of the DFB Guide to the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival as well as the 2015 guide as an immediate download — FREE! Remember, with a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! On to the Round-Up! Mickey Fix found this Star Wars ‘Feel The Force Mug’ and we must have it! No need for a spoon the mug is self-stirring! WDW For Grownups enjoyed a wonderful dinner at one of our favorite spots, Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano. Disney Parks Blog shared the how-to for making bride and groom candy apples from Walt Disney World. Perfect for Valentine’s Day! Disney Family shared six Fun Food Art Recipes. The Toy Story Facebook Page shared a recipe for some super-cute Alien Cupcakes. Have a great week! We’ll see you back here tomorrow with another great Disney food review! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 17, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 24, 2016 Disney Food Post Round-Up: January 10, 2016 View the full article

Central Florida-based a cappella group Voctave teamed up with Pentatonix's Kirstin Maldonado and her boyfriend Jeremy Michael Lewis for a moving medley of Disney movie classics. The a cappella arrangement of "I See the Light" from "Tangled," "You'll Be In My Heart" from "Tarzan" and "Go the Distance"... View the full article

Central Florida-based a cappella group Voctave teamed up with Pentatonix's Kirstin Maldonado and her boyfriend Jeremy Michael Lewis for a moving medley of Disney movie classics. The a cappella arrangement of "I See the Light" from "Tangled," "You'll Be In My Heart" from "Tarzan" and "Go the Distance"... View the full article

Meet Aulani’s ‘Ohana | Fitness Instructor | Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa View the full article

Welcome to the month of love! From treats to getaways (or staycations, depending on where you live) to lavish meals, this month we’re swooning over all the stories of romance here at Disney Parks. This Week in Disney Park Photos, here is one of those stories: the new aerial bamboo act at Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba. Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba performs at Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort five nights a week. In addition to being a spectacle to watch, the couple who perform the aerial bamboo describe it as their expression of love for each other in this art form. Darcy Clark will have more about the performers and the bamboo aerial act in a future Disney Parks Blog story This Week in Disney Parks Photos: An Act of Love from Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba by Victoria Lim: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

We are back with another fun installment of Disney Food Pics of the Week, courtesy of the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza, our Flickr group! You may not know it, but Disney is offering some really great beer these days! From more interesting seasonal options, to craft beers you know and love, there’s a ton of variety happening where this adult beverage is concerned. Kona Beer Flight at Trader Sam’s Tiki Terrace Today, we’re showcasing some of the beeeea-utiful photos of Beer that our readers have captured around Disney! Cheers! Abita Beer Flight at Boatwright’s Photographer: Nancy RK I love all of the interesting flights that you can get at Disney. Whether you’re dining in one of the many restaurants that offer them, or you’re taking in the Booths at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, there’s no better way to learn about all of your options or to discover a new favorite. The Abita Flight at Boatwright’s Dining Hall is always a good choice! Abita Flight — Abita Amber, Abita Purple Haze, and Abita Turbodog — at Boatwright’s in Port Orleans Resort Beer at the Biergarten in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion Photographer: Kelly Amey There’s some terrific beer to be had in all the countries of World Showcase at Epcot. But you simply cannot leave this mini tour of the world without having a beer in the Germany Pavilion — and we vote for the Biergarten! Now that’s a beer. (Two, actually. One for each hand? ) Yep — those are entire liters of beer! Prost! Beer at the Biergarten in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion Root Beer Float at Sci Fi Dine In Restaurant Photographer: JLovely When is beer not beer? When it’s Root Beer, of course! And there’s no better way to enjoy this kid-friendly brew than in a Root Beer Float — especially at Sci-Fi Dine-In Restaurant! Root Beer Float at Sci-Fi Dine-In Restaurant at Disney’s Hollywood Studios We thank all of you who post food photos in the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza group on Flickr! All images are copyrighted to their photographers. Do not download or re-use without photographer permission. And there’s room for more! Just head over to the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza on Flickr and show us your shots. We may feature your pics as part of an upcoming Disney Food Pics of the Week Series! If you’d like to see other Disney Food Pics of the Week that we’ve featured, just click here to check them out! What’s your favorite Disney spot for a cold one at Disney? Let us know with a comment below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Pics of the Week: Glow Drinks! Disney Food Pics of the Week: Adult Thirst-Quenchers Disney Food Pics of the Week: Chocolate View the full article

Happy Lunar New Year Celebration is going on now at Paradise Gardens in Disney California Adventure park, through February 8. The event celebrates time-honored traditions of the Chinese, Korean and Vietnamese cultures, inviting citizens of all backgrounds to enjoy the festivities. Join Mulan and Mushu, along with friends Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse and Chip n’ Dale to celebrate the Year of the Monkey! Take a look at all the fun in the video below. Join us for the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration, February 5-8, from 11 am – 5 pm each day! VIDEO: Join the Happy Lunar New Year Celebration at Disney California Adventure Park this Weekend by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner, and if you haven’t picked up a gift or made plans yet—don’t worry. There are plenty of sweet ways to show you care with specialty treats at Walt Disney World Resort. At The Ganachery at Disney Springs, you’ll find specialty ganache squares and pops decorated for Valentine’s Day—raspberry enrobed in dark chocolate and passion fruit enrobed in milk chocolate. Surprise your sweetie with a pre-packed box of ganache. Perhaps your love’s allegiance lies with The Dark Side. Fear not, these Star Wars-inspired chocolate bars, available in both dark and milk chocolate, are the perfect way to say I love you. (I know.) In my opinion, Magic Kingdom Park is one of the most romantic places at Walt Disney World Resort, though I may be biased because I met my husband there. Romance your valentine with a chocolate raspberry cupcake from Main Street Bakery, or indulge in the Black Forest waffle with vanilla ice cream at Sleepy Hollow. If cupcakes are the way to your Valentine’s heart, Disney’s Hollywood Studios has a cupcake featuring Lady and the Tramp that is paws-itively adorable. At Fountain View in Epcot, you’ll find a chocolate cupcake with a strawberry-marshmallow center, strawberry butter and a ganache drizzle sure to make your sweetie’s heart melt. Happy Valentine’s Day! Celebrate Valentine’s Day With Sweet Treats at Walt Disney World Resort by Rachel Bshero: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

In late November it was announced that a big change was coming to River Belle Terrace, a Disneyland dining favorite. River Belle Terrace February 1st was the last day River Belle Terrace operated as a Counter Service location. When it reopens on February 10th, it will be a Table Service restaurant. Additionally, this beloved breakfast location will serve only lunch and dinner moving forward. So, before you make your Advance Dining Reservation (which you can do now by visiting disneyland.com or calling 714-871-DINE), you may want to learn a little more about what will be on the menu! View from River Belle Terrace Keeping its focus on Southern cuisine, barbecue will be the featured fare (and at the moment, it appears the menu will be the same for both lunch and dinner). But before digging into entrees, starters will certainly be up for grabs. You may begin your meal with Pimento Cheese Dip served with toasted bread and celery or Grilled and Chilled Shrimp with house-made barbecue sauce, or perhaps a salad. The House Salad will be made of arugula, apple, gorgonzola, dried cranberries and candied pecans topped with apple vinaigrette. ©Disney Barbecue Ribs, Beef Brisket, a Fried Chicken Sandwich, Pulled Pork and Oven-Roasted Barbecue Chicken will make up some of the more traditional entree choices, alongside a Catch of the Day. Salads will also be featured on the menu, including the River Belle’s Chopped Salad (romaine lettuce, black beans, garbanzo beans, pickles, roasted red pepper and tomato topped with fried onions and BBQ-ranch dressing) and the Terrace Wedge, where iceberg lettuce, tomatoes, bacon and crumbled gorgonzola are given a Southern twist with a pickled red onion garnish and buttermilk-gorgonzola dressing. Either option can be topped with chicken, grilled shrimp, brisket, or BBQ tofu. Dessert selections will include a Butterscotch Pudding Parfait and warm Maple, Apple and Bacon Bundt Cake. And while that last one sounds intriguing, I don’t know if I’d be able to resist the Fried Cheesecake. Much as I will miss sitting down to start a Disneyland morning with a Mickey Pancake and a gorgeous view at River Belle Terrace, I have to admit that some of these items sound rather promising. (Plus, I know I’ll be able to get my Mickey Pancake at Rancho del Zocalo, now serving breakfast!) Are you looking forward to dining at River Belle Terrace as a Table Service location? 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: News: Changes Coming to Disneyland’s River Belle Terrace and Rancho del Zocalo Review: River Belle Terrace Breakfast at Disneyland Park News! Epcot’s Spice Road Table Now Accepting Advance Dining Reservations View the full article

Josh Gad will take viewers on a unique tour of Disneyland park, including peeks inside Walt Disney’s private apartment above Main Street, U.S.A., and the Disneyland Dream Suite in New Orleans Square, during the two-hour television special, “The Wonderful World of Disney: Disneyland 60,” on Sunday, Feb. 21, on the ABC Television Network. Josh will also explore some Disneyland fan favorites, including a certain pineapple treat, and more! Check back for more details on what’s in store during this very special television event. Josh Gad Takes Viewers to Rarely Seen Places at Disneyland Park During ‘The Wonderful Disney: Disneyland 60’ February 21 on ABC by George Savvas: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Ahead of Super Bowl 50, Walt Disney Pictures has released a teaser clip for "The Jungle Book" spot that will air Sunday during the big game. Scarlett Johansson, Idris Elba and Christopher Walken star in the live-action version of the 1967 animated film. Here's a look at the teaser. Big Game Announcement... View the full article

Offering cast members and their friends and family free admission to its theme parks, The Walt Disney Company has made Glassdoor.com's list of best companies for employee perks and benefits. The Walt Disney Company ranked 13th among the top 20 employer benefits identified by the job review site. ... View the full article

How do you describe the AquaDuck to friends and family who’ve yet to go on a Disney cruise? Here are some ideas from adorable cruise experts! Kids Remember AquaDuck on Their Disney Cruise by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

How does a chance to win a five-night/six-day Walt Disney World Resort vacation sound to you? What about the ultimate slumber party – a night in the Cinderella Castle Suite at the Magic Kingdom? Plus a chance for you and your family to meet Disney Channel’s Sofia Carson and Sabrina Carpenter from the upcoming Disney Channel Original Movie, Adventures in Babysitting! Our partners at Disney Channel are kicking off the month of February in a big way! Now through February 28, register for a chance to win the Disney Channel’s Epic Adventure Sweepstakes. One lucky contestant will receive a five night/six day Walt Disney World Resort Vacation which includes: One night stay in the Cinderella Castle Suite at Magic Kingdom Park A chance to meet Sofia Carson and Sabrina Carpenter from the upcoming Disney Channel Original Movie, Adventures in Babysitting Visit www.Disney.com/EpicAdventureSweeps to get more information and register for a chance to win. Good luck! NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Must be 8 – 18 years or parent of eligible child; resident of the 50 U.S. or D.C. Sweepstakes starts 12:00pm (noon) PT on 2/1/16 and ends 11:59 pm PT on 2/28/16. Click here for Official Rules including details on odds of winning, prize descriptions and limitations. Many will enter. One will win. Minors must get parent’s permission before entering. #DisneyTweens: Enter for a Chance to Win Walt Disney World Vacation, Cinderella Castle Suite Sleepover, Meet & Greet With Disney Channel Stars by Raquel Giorgio: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

With the Walt Disney World Marathon in the books, we turn out attention to the remaining 2016 runDisney races at Walt Disney World. Three race weekends remain, all three highlighted by a half marathon. Kicking things off is the annual Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend Feb. 18-21. Events include... View the full article

We’re tackling another question from the DFB Reader mailbag! And today, it’s all about breakfast. The Samoan at Kona Cafe Our reader asks: Where can we get a good breakfast if we are NOT into characters or buffets? There are lots of spots to enjoy a terrific breakfast at Walt Disney World — even if you prefer not to have characters, and you’d rather order a la carte. We’ll break down a few of our favorites below, and share why these spots are tops for starting your Disney Day. Good Counter Service Options If you are crunched — for time, money, or both — then consider some of Disney’s best Counter Service Breakfast options. Deluxe resorts are some of my favorite spots for counter service eats. Roaring Fork at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers Mickey Waffles with a variety of toppings. We love the Bananas Foster option! Wilderness Lodge Waffles And at Captain Cook’s, located in the Polynesian Village Resort, you can indulge in an iconic Disney breakfast — Tonga Toast — without paying table service prices! Tonga Toast with Bacon from Captain Cook’s BoardWalk Bakery at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is another option for you. Choose from some of the best bakery and pastry items in the World. Brioche at the BoardWalk Bakery Or if you’re looking for something a little heartier, check out the Breakfast Waffle Cone! BoardWalk Bakery Breakfast Waffle Cone If you’re looking for a substantial start to your day inside of the parks, you have a few options as well. Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom offers a prix fixe breakfast. You choose your entree, and it’s served with a pastry basket and your choice of drink. It’s a great, less busy time to see this super popular restaurant! Open-Face Bacon and Egg Sandwich for Breakfast at Be Our Guest When Epcot is your first stop of the day, skip the resort food court and head to Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie. The authentic French bakery and pastry shop opens at 9:00AM most mornings — a full 2 hours before the rest of World Showcase. It’s a great opportunity to take in a delicious breakfast in a quiet(er) corner of the park. Pastries in Display Case at Les Halles If you’re looking to kick off your day with a spot of shopping, you’ll find hearty breakfast treats at the Earl of Sandwich in Disney Springs. Finally, whether you’re visiting the shopping and entertainment district, or you’re in the parks, there’s always a Starbucks nearby, where you’ll find their familiar line of breakfast sandwiches and pastries — plus a few Disney-specific treats. Gouda and Bacon Breakfast Sandwich at Starbucks Also, don’t forget that nearly all of the resorts, including the Value Resorts, offer food courts with lots of breakfast options. Some of our favorites are Landscape of Flavors at Art of Animation and Port Orleans French Quarter — mmm! Beignets! If you’re looking for a very light breakfast option, you’ll find fresh fruit, bread for toast, milk, and juice in all of the Disney counter service and food court options, as well as in some locations within the parks. Cereal and Fruit at Contempo Cafe You’ll also find them in the gift and sundries shops. Table Service Breakfast Choices But you also have several great table service options for breakfast as well. Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s BoardWalk serves up breakfast with a Mediterranean twist. Don’t miss their Poached Eggs with Fennel Sausage, Parmesan, and Tomato Gravy served over soft Polenta. Poached Eggs, Fennel Sausage, and Tomato Gravy with Soft Polenta — Up Close Or if you’re looking for a sweet beginning, give the Waffle with Espresso-Mascarpone Cream and choice of Bacon or Chicken Sausage a go. Amazing Mascarpone topping on Trattoria al Forno Waffles I also make it a point to visit Kona Cafe nearly every time I’m in town. Who can resist the Samoan, or an order of Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes? You can get Tonga Toast here, too, but it’s a bit more expensive than it is downstairs at Captain Cook’s. Macadamia Pineapple Pancakes from Kona Cafe Over at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Whispering Canyon Cafe is a flip side to the coin. Here, you can expect bonafide shenanigans from the wait staff and your fellow diners. All You Care to Enjoy Breakfast Skillet for One at Whispering Canyon Cafe But no worries; if you’re looking for a meal fit for a cowboy, but you aren’t up to the fun and games, just flip your card to red, and you’ll be served in peace and quiet. Flip Card — Red “Watch from the Fence!” Side Park breakfasts are, for the most part, either counter service or character meals. But there are a few exceptions, like breakfast at Rainforest Cafe in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The Best of Both: Buffets and A La Carte Finally there are a couple of spots that offer a hybrid approach to the morning meal. You can order a la carte items from a menu, or you can indulge in the restaurant’s buffet. The Wave…of American Flavors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is an example. If you aren’t looking to fill up first thing, order house specialties, like Sweet Potato Pancakes, are available on the menu. The Wave Signature Sweet Potato Pancakes Similarly, Captain’s Grille at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort also offers both a la carte and buffet options. The Lobster Omelet is the perfect vacation indulgence. Lobster Omelet at Captain’s Grille So, if you’re thinking of foregoing breakfast to avoid buffets and characters at Disney World, we can highly recommend that you try out a few of our suggestions instead — you may find they’re the best meals you have the whole time you’re in Disney World! Ready for All of Our Best Tips? We’ve got TONS of Disney World Dining Tips — including LOTS of restaurant suggestions for your every need — in our big, bold 2016 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining! With more than 530 pages, The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining is full of tips and planning tools developed by Disney World experts over 20+ years of visits. We’ve done the research for you, so you’ll know just which spots will uniquely suit your family’s needs! With sample dining itineraries, plus our “Disney Dining at a Glance” section, featuring “Where Can I Find?” options, you’ll have everything you need to plan your best vacation yet. Click here to get your copy of The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining E-book — and use code HAPPYPLACE for an extra $4 discount for a limited time! Now I’d love to hear from you! What is your favorite non-buffet, non-character breakfast in Walt Disney World? Let us know below in comments! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB Reader Questions Answered: Best Restaurants to Celebrate a Grown-Up Birthday at Walt Disney World DFB Reader Questions Answered: Celebrating Your Child’s Birthday at Walt Disney World DFB Reader Questions Answered: Where Can I Get a Free Counter Service Refill in the Parks? View the full article

It’s nighttime and all’s well at The BOATHOUSE Restaurant at Disney Springs. This dining hotspot, which serves up Florida style surf & turf, is surrounded by “dream boats” of the 30s, 40s and 50s, as well as AmphiCars that offer on the water tours of Disney Springs. GalleryDisney Parks After Dark view all Disney Parks After Dark: The BOATHOUSE Restaurant at Disney Springs by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Beyond the Walt Disney World Theme Parks With Jeannette Kaplun View the full article

Disneyland Diamond Days sweepstakes, part of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration, has been giving guests the chance to win dazzling prizes – and this week’s prize is one of the most dazzling! Enter right now to win this gorgeous, bejeweled crown inspired by the Disney film, “Sleeping Beauty.”* The recipient of this beautiful crown will also rub elbows with royalty, as they will have the opportunity to meet Princess Aurora and Prince Philip during a Disneyland Resort vacation! The prize package includes three days and two nights at a Disneyland Resort hotel for the winner and up to three guests. What’s the next Disney icon to be awarded during Disneyland Diamond Days? Today, I’m excited to give you a peek at these dazzling Mickey Mouse ears, covered in crystals, that one lucky winner will receive along with a Disneyland Resort vacation package! These crystal-encrusted ears feature a white gold-plated Disneyland emblem covered in pave diamonds, surrounding a blue topaz. Your chance to win this amazing ear hat is coming up as Disneyland Diamond Days continues!** Enter today and don’t miss out on your chance to win. For details, Official Rules, a full list of prizes, odds of winning and to learn more about Disneyland Diamond Days, visit Disneyland.com/DiamondDays. NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. Void where prohibited. Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S., D.C., Mexico and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are age of majority as of date of entry. Sweepstakes ends 6:59 AM PT on 2/5/16. Each weekly drawing starts Friday at 7:00AM PT and ends at 6:59 AM PT the following Friday. Each eligible weekly entry automatically entered into final drawing but not into any daily drawings. Limit one (1) entry per person per day, regardless of method of entry. Disney Memories, 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521, U.S.A. * Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S., D.C., Mexico and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are age of majority as of date of entry. Sweepstakes ends 6:59 AM PT on 2/5/16. ** Open to legal residents of the 50 U.S., D.C. and Canada (excluding Quebec) who are age of majority as of date of entry. Sweepstakes starts 7:00 AM PT on 2/5/16 and ends 6:59 AM PT on 9/9/16. Sponsor: Disney Memories, 500 S. Buena Vista Street, Burbank, CA 91521, U.S.A. Enter Now for Chance to Win Dazzling ‘Sleeping Beauty’-Inspired Crown in Disneyland Diamond Days by Erin Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Looking for ideas to create a reaction like this from your loved one? As a Dream Maker at Disney Floral & Gifts, guests frequently ask me for tips to reveal their inner admirer at our resorts and at home. So, to help you get started, I’ve listed 5 below. Surprise them with early delivery If you struggle remembering special occasions, your loved one will enjoy receiving their bouquet on the eve of the holiday. To enhance the moment even more, include a card message such as, “I didn’t want to wait till the last petal fell to tell you how much I love you.” If visiting Walt Disney World Resort, consider our “Beauty & the Beast“-themed “Romance Your Beauty” bouquet. At the Disneyland Floral & Gifts we have our new Disney Dozen. At home, a luxurious bouquet of long stemmed roses will work as well. Create a two-day romantic surprise Surprise them on the eve of the holiday with a token of affection, then, on Valentine’s Day, just when they think there’s no more magic left, surprise them with an over the top display of romance. At Walt Disney World Resort, we created A Wish Come True – Two Day Romantic Experience to provide this unforgettable memory. At Disneyland Resort, celebrate the second day with From Mickey & Minnie with Love. Experience a Carriage Ride Create a Fairytale by booking a carriage ride at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort or Disney’s Port Orleans Resort. The driver can present your gift at the beginning of the ride, saying, “We’ve found the lady’s slipper.” Afterwards, crown her your princess with the tiara. While this offering isn’t available at the Disneyland Resort, you can order the glass slipper and tiara from our website and have it shipped to your home to create the same experience on a local carriage ride. Grant Them a Valentine’s Day Wish Fulfill A Magical Wish. The card sets the stage for this special moment. Once they close their eyes, wave their wand and make a wish, present the bracelet as a reminder that dreams can come true. Romance with Rose Petals After a full day in the park, have rose petals sprinkled throughout your Walt Disney World Resort room. At home, charm them with your culinary skills by cooking their favorite dinner by candlelight with rose petals sprinkled on the table and at their feet. To learn more about the ideas above, just click on the links or speak with a Walt Disney World Dream Maker at 407-WDW-GIFT. At Disneyland Resort, you can reach a Dream Maker at 714-781-GIFT. And, to all my romantic friends reading this post, if you have some good ideas and tips to help bring out the inner charm in our readers, we’d enjoy reading your insight as well! 5 Romantic Valentine’s Ideas from Disney’s Floral & Gifts by Jean Volante: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

One of the visuals I remember most from celebrating Valentine’s Day as a child are those little candy hearts with messages on them, like “Love” and “Be Mine.” Hearts were the inspiration for our first Valentine’s Day wallpaper of 2016, with Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse taking on that shape as well. Be sure to check out the terms of use about using the wallpaper before you download it. Thanks to Jason Ratner for the design. Download our Disney Parks Candy Hearts Wallpaper by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Well, it looks like Disneyland Hotel isn’t the only Disney resort getting a new Afternoon Tea! Beginning this month, Disney World’s Beach Club will host Afternoon Tea at Solarium Gardens on select dates throughout the year in the resort’s beautiful Crescent Solarium. ©Disney Dates currently available for booking are February 11- 14, February 18-21, March 24-29, May 5 – 8, June 16-19, and September 1 – 5, 2016. Guests will be able to choose from three tea packages for adults, and one for children ages 3-9. The Sea Side Park Tea features four courses: a first course of Artisan cheese selections and seasonal accompaniments, followed by a second course of petit sandwiches along with canapés on house-made breads. Scones will then be served with clotted cream, lemon curd, and a seasonal jam, with the final course consisting of tea cookies and house-made pastries. All adult packages will include the guest’s choice of loose-leaf tea. ©Disney The Sandy Cove Tea includes the petit sandwiches and canapés on house-made breads for the first course, followed by the scones with clotted cream, lemon curd, and a seasonal jam along with tea cookies and house-made pastries. Again, your choice of loose-leaf tea is also included. ©Disney The Prince Cove Tea is the only package to feature a house-made charcuterie and cheese plate, which will be accompanied by the scones with clotted cream, lemon curd, and a seasonal jam as well as the tea cookies and house-made pastries. And, of course, your choice of loose-leaf tea. ©Disney Guests ages 3-9 can try the Short Sands Beach Tea, with a first course of assorted tea sandwiches followed by a scone with clotted cream, lemon curd, and a seasonal jam. Chocolate chip cookies complete the package, which is all enjoyed with “special dark tea” (otherwise known as “chocolate milk” ). ©Disney The Beach Club is one of the Epcot area resorts, just a short stroll away from World Showcase (from the International Gateway between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions). If Afternoon Tea sounds like a great respite from a busy park day, you can call (407) WDW-DINE to make an Advance Dining Reservation. It is also anticipated that booking will soon be available via disneyworld.com. Would you like to enjoy Afternoon Tea in the Beach Club’s Solarium? 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 NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Review: Beach Club Marketplace at Disney’s Beach Club Resort News! Beaches and Cream in Walt Disney World’s Beach Club Resort Now Accepting Reservations News! Menu Changes at Beaches and Cream in Disney’s Beach Club Resort View the full article

Leading up to Valentine's Day, I started compiling a list of the most lovey-dovey places within Orlando attractions. I was sweetly surprised by this realization: Magic Kingdom is the most romantic place on theme-park earth. Yes, the most kid-friendly of our parks also provides the most examples... View the full article

DFB welcomes Guest Author Sara McCaslin with a review of Boatwright’s at Port Orleans Resort Riverside in Walt Disney World. Stop here for southern hospitality! Learn About: Boatwright’s Dining HallDisney World Restaurants On Oct. 3, 2015, my dining companions (my husband and two dear friends) arrived at Port Orleans Riverside Resort for our 6:15pm advance dining reservation at Boatwright’s. The four of us were enjoying the delights of Disney’s Deluxe Dining Plan for a few days and wanted to experience new sit-down places. Before our trip, I heavily researched many menus and reviews via the Disney Food Blog and decided to give Boatwright’s a try. The menu was intriguing with many comfort food options. We arrived at Port Orleans Riverside via Disney’s bus transportation. Diners can also use the waterways from Disney Springs to travel to either Port Orleans Riverside or Port Orleans French Quarter. Port Orleans Riverside resort is a lovely, pleasant place to stay while at Walt Disney World. My husband and I have called this resort home twice throughout the years. We enjoyed both stays but did not take advantage of the resort sit-down dining option during those stays. Shame on us because Boatwright’s is a hidden treasure among the expert theming and exciting character experiences of other resort and theme part eateries. Welcome to Boatwright’s Dining Hall Diners can access Boatwright’s from either the front or back of Port Orleans Riverside. If entering from the front of the resort, simply turn left at the lobby entrance to see the lounge and the dining room is just a few steps further. If entering from the back of the resort, perhaps after arriving via the boat, simply walk along the marina to your right and look up to view the welcoming Boatwright’s sign. This door will usher you directly into Boatwright’s check-in and waiting area. Atmosphere As a moderate resort sit-down dining location, Boatwright’s was not super busy when we arrived for our 6:15pm reservation. We were seated immediately in the boat frame/tools area. The theming here is antebellum era boat construction. While that doesn’t sound as fun and fancy as Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater or Cinderella’s Royal Table, it is still expertly executed. Dining Room Boat frame Frame hanging from ceiling The boat frame and tools area is bright, large, and impressive with ample space between tables for private conversations and interaction. Although this area features soaring ceilings, the noise level never became a nuisance. Dining Room Seating Details! There is an additional seating area that features a cozy brick fireplace, more tools, and a lower ceiling. The lighting level in this room was on the low side but I adored the chandeliers. These lantern-esque fixtures reminded me of my grandparents’ house. Cozy seating. Love the light fixtures! Eats After being seated, we were greeted by our server Carl. We informed Carl that we were on the Deluxe Dining Plan. This means each adult in our party could order an appetizer, an entrée, and dessert. Our meals also included a soft drink, tea, or lemonade. Carl Carl let us know that at Boatwright’s, non-alcoholic strawberry daiquiris and Pina coladas were available as drink options on the dining plan. (I’m not sure about re-fills on these drinks as we only needed the one serving.) I opted for the Pina colada and my husband chose the strawberry daiquiri. Both were tasty, fun options. One can only enjoy so much unsweet tea. Non-alcoholic beverages included on Disney Dining Plan Boatwright’s offers a full bar as well, and a specialty cocktails menu. Our friends chose the Abita Amber and traditional strawberry daiquiri. Both were reported as delicious. Specialty Cocktails Menu Abita Amber Strawberry Daiquiri The menu was what drew us to Boatwright’s with many offerings of southern and Cajun options. Our meal began with a healthy serving of cornbread and butter — a traditional southern staple. This, however, was sweet cornbread and a tasty start to the meal. Now, at my house growing up, our cornbread was NEVER sweet. It was cornmeal, oil, an egg, and some milk. So, I was not introduced to ‘sweet’ cornbread until college. Boatwright’s cornbread is amazing. One could snack on this stuff throughout the day and feel good about that decision. Corn Bread and Butter Close Up of Corn Bread Speaking of decisions, it was now time to make some appetizer and entrée decisions. The four of us agreed to order different items to share and compare. This means we ordered four different apps, four different entrees, and four different desserts. The Deluxe Dining Plan is a LOT of food. We’ll just ignore the fact that we had lunch at Chefs de France earlier that day – appetizer, entrée, and dessert there, too. Again, it’s a lot of food. We were, as they say, up to the challenge! Here is the Boatwright’s menu. I chose Amelia’s Salad as my starter. This seasonal salad included mixed greens, blue cheese, an apple vinaigrette, and pumpkin seeds for some added crunch. I asked for the blue cheese on the side as I’m not a huge fan of this sometimes powerful cheese. I was happy to be able to add a bit here and there. Amelia’s Salad We also ordered the Mardi Gras Fritters for the table. They were delightful with a good balance between sweet and spicy. The pimento jelly really stood out here and we were all excited about this dish. Mardi Gras Fritters Mardi Gras Fritters Cross-Section Appetizer #3 was the Pirogue Platter. We enjoyed numerous combinations of cheese, apples, prosciutto, and small bread bites. The cheese selections included Wisconsin Cheddar, blue cheese, a red wine goat cheese (the table favorite), and brie. The Mardi Gras fritter pimento jelly was served with this dish and made for some delicious pairings. I never met a cheese board I didn’t like. Pirogue Platter The final appetizer was the N’awlins Barbecued Shrimp. This was, by far, the best of the four starters. It had great garlic flavor and perfectly cooked shrimp. We dipped some of the cheese board bread in the broth. Amazing!! (This dish is now an entree on the menu!) N’awlins Barbecued Shrimp At this point, we were all starting to feel a bit overwhelmed at the amount of food. Yet, we pushed onward towards the entrees. I chose General Fulton’s Prime Rib for my main course. This steak was cooked to perfection with a spicy rub on the outside. The asparagus still had a slight crunch to it. The mashed potatoes were standard but good. The sauce, however, was excellent. Served on the side, it was nice to decide how much I wanted with each bite. Nice touch. General Fulton’s Prime Rib There was no way I could eat all of this steak no matter how much I wanted to. I will be back to enjoy each and every bite in the future. I also ordered a side of sautéed mushrooms. These were good and a great accompaniment to the steak and veggies. Like the cheese boards, mushrooms and I get along great. Sauteed Mushrooms My husband ordered the Charleston Shrimp and Grits. His only complaint was the inclusion of mushrooms, which could not be left out of the serving. Aside from this, his assessment was that this dish of shrimp and grits was better than the same dish offered at Olivia’s. That’s a bold statement for sure. He enjoyed it!! Charleston Shrimp and Grits One of our friends ordered the Ponchatrain Pasta and really liked the sweet corn in this dish. She opted to omit the shrimp from the dish due to allergies. This was no problem for the kitchen. She said the sauce was hearty but not too heavy and that most of it sat on the bottom of the bowl, so stirring was necessary. Ponchatrain Pasta The final entrée was The Big Easy 10 oz. New York Strip Steak served with crawfish mac and cheese. The steak was cooked well and the sauce was served on the side. This was good because after trying the sauce, our friend determined he preferred the steak without the sauce. The crawfish mac and cheese had a strong bacon flavor that somewhat overshadowed the cheese and crawfish flavors. They may want to (gasp!) cut back on the bacon in this dish. Big Easy 10 oz. New York Strip Steak Here is the dessert menu. Dessert Menu Dessert Cocktails and Beverages Our dessert selections included the Crème Brulee for me. As a no sugar added option on the menu, this dish tasted good but did not have the traditional burned sugar topping. There was an attempt to burn something on the top but it did not translate to the fun crunch of most sugar filled brulees. If one is concerned with sugar intake, this would be a great option. Crème Brulee The next selection was the Doubloon Bread Pudding. My husband described this sweet ending as dense with fruit and berries baked inside. Paired with vanilla ice cream, this dessert earned an honorable mention from the table. The bread pudding flavor changes seasonally. Doubloon Bread Pudding Close Up of Doubloon Bread Pudding The Bourbon Street Pecan Pie was also selected. It was a small, individual pecan pie similar to the ones available in plastic packaging in the grocery store. It was not served warm nor with ice cream. Both elements would have greatly improved this dessert selection. Bourbon Street Pecan Pie The final dessert, and the hands down favorite, was the Red Velvet Cheesecake. This dessert was perfection. It tasted like red velvet cake should, not too sweet but rich and delicious. We all enjoyed this simple dessert. Red Velvet Cheesecake Overall Overall, Boatwright’s at Port Orleans Riverside was worth the time away from the parks and other character infused resort eateries. If you are looking for great food, relaxed atmosphere, great service (Thanks Carl!!), Boatwright’s should be among your dining reservations. Speaking of service, it truly was outstanding. Carl answered our menu questions and made our dining experience even better. As I stated, the Deluxe Dining Plan is sometimes food overload. The next time I dine at Boatwright’s, I will arrive hungry. I’m looking forward to another great dinner. Have you dined at Boatwright’s? Let us know in comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com! Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans Riverside Review: Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans Riverside Guest Review: Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney World’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort View the full article

During eight Disney Fantasy sailings in early 2016, Star Wars Day at Sea transports guests to a galaxy far, far away — in the Western Caribbean. We’ve been talking with Disney cruisers who have experienced the Force during this epic day-long celebration, and here are the results of their top-five fan favorites: Character Interactions Darth Vader, Captain Phasma, Chewbacca, C-3PO, R2-D2, Boba Fett, Darth Maul, Stormtroopers and other characters from across the Star Wars galaxy are onboard for meet-and-greets and photos. Some may even be seen patrolling the decks! Family Costumes Families are encouraged to bring costumes and cosplay for this special occasion. From morning till night, you’ll see Star Wars character look-a-likes all throughout the ship, especially during the lively costume celebration in the ship’s atrium. Film Screenings You can watch all seven films in the Star Wars saga and follow Darth Vader, Luke, Leia, Han Solo, Rey and Finn along their epic journey. Also showing are episodes of the new Disney XD animated series, Star Wars Rebels. Younglings Use Their Power In “Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple,” Force-sensitive children learn the ways of the Jedi and put their skills to the test in a final battle with the Sith Lord, Darth Vader. Star Wars Deck Party and Fireworks The day concludes when the “Summon the Force” deck party blasts off to an exciting evening filled with music, dancing and Star Wars characters. The grand finale is a spectacular display of pyrotechnics, lighting, sound effects and a medley of Star Wars music. Top Five: Star Wars Day at Sea on the Disney Fantasy by Jonathan Frontado: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article