the disney food blog

Guest Review: Lunch at Everything POP Food Court in Disney’s Pop Century Resort

AJ — Wed, 16 May 2012 04:45:14 +0000

Welcome back guest author Catie Hiltz with a groovy review from Pop Century’s food court. Let’s join her for lunch…

My husband, parents and I were lucky enough to spend a week in Walt Disney World after Easter, and I have to say one of the best parts of the trip was the POP Century Resort. I was expecting it to be like the other Value Resorts, but I really loved the themeing and décor, the rooms were clean and not too wildly decorated, and we all especially loved the Everything POP Food Court.

The outside of the POP Century Food Court

On this particular day, we came back around 2pm from a morning at the parks and decided to grab lunch here.

Atmosphere

Everything POP is arranged in a big open food court/shopping area, where the Resort gift shop is essentially part of the food court (which I really loved, because it combined 2 of my all time favorite things — food and shopping!).

The food court was relatively quiet and laid back, something you might not expect from a food court at a busy Disney Resort during Spring Break (and it was never too crowded, even on later trips back during busier times!). It never felt crowded and we never waited more than 5 minutes for food or to check out.

Food Court area

Seating Area

Eats

As far as menu options, it’s pretty standard Disney Resort Food Court fare, with a few twists. You had your basic burgers/chicken nuggets/sandwiches/salads.

Burgers and more!

Sandwich/salad menu

More Menu Options

But then there were things I hadn’t seen before at the Food Courts, like sushi, flatbreads, and chicken parmesan.

Flatbreads, sushi and assorted packaged items

After checking out the menus and weighing all of the (tempting) options, I decided on the veggie calzone, which came with a side salad.

Veggie Calzone and Side Salad

They arranged the tomatoes in a Mickey shape…. on purpose maybe? Who knows, either way, I loved it! However, that was the only thing I loved about the salad. It was made fresh when I ordered it, with an iceberg lettuce/cabbage/carrot blend, and it was tossed with Italian dressing.

However, there was WAY too much dressing, it made the whole salad (and plate) oily, and after a few bites I decided to quit and focus on the calzone instead.

The calzone was filled with a ricotta/mozzarella blend that also had garlic, spinach, and red bell peppers in it. It was served with a side of marinara, which was chunky with tomatoes and onions.

The calzone had the perfect crust to filling ratio, and the filling was creamy and a good contrast to the crunchy top of the crust.

Inside of veggie calzone

My husband also had trouble deciding from the vast array of options, and finally landed on the Philly Cheesesteak wrap and fries.

Inside view of the Philly Cheesesteak Wrap

The meat was moist, and had onions cooked in with it; the whole thing was topped with a generic melted cheese (American, probably), and served in a warm flour tortilla. He really liked it. His only complaint was that he wished there were also bell peppers in with the meat and onions.

The fries were perfect, fresh and crisp on the outside, fluffy on the inside, with just the right amount of salt (I would know, I kept stealing them off his plate, that’s how good they were!).

Since we were on the Dining plan, that meant we also got a dessert!

Yummy Dessert options

Even MORE dessert choices

Here’s a Tip! While I was walking around taking pictures of all the stations, the girl at the ice cream station informed me that we could return within 90 minutes of eating and get a sundae as our dessert with our Disney Dining Plan meal, as long as we got our receipt stamped when we went through the checkout. And that is just what we did!

Our dessert – ice cream sundaes

They were big and delicious – three whole scoops of ice cream each! Plus there was a choice of toppings. I am glad we learned about this, as this was the perfect end to our meal!

Aside from being able to grab a meal here, there are many beverage options, including a cooler of beer and wine choices. I actually found the prices to be very reasonable for Disney, and they had a nice selection.

Beer and Wine Cooler

There are also plenty of grab and go snack options available here as well (many of which can be purchased with a Snack Credit on the Disney Dining Plan).

Grab and go options, including packaged snacks

Baked Goods Case

Grab and Go Items

Ice Cold Treats – Including Mickey Bars!

Overall

We really thought we were getting our money’s worth at the Everything POP Food Court. The portions were large, the staff was fast and polite, and most importantly, the food tasted good! We returned here several more times during our trip, and we were never disappointed; the food was always fresh and our experiences here solidified POP Century as our top pick for a Disney Value Resort (meaning we will definitely be back to stay, and EAT in the future!).

Let us know what you think about Pop Century Food Court! Any favorite meals or choices?

Catie has been a Disney fanatic ever since her first ride on Space Mountain at age 4. She is the author of Living in a Grown Up World, and she is a huge fan of food, Minnie Mouse, and all things Disney!

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News! Raglan Road and Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Announce Specialty Dinners

Kim — Tue, 15 May 2012 20:30:57 +0000

We’ve got news of two special dinners to share with you. Fun East and West coast meals! Let me know if you’re able to take advantage of these!

Raglan Road

Raglan Road has announced a Mid-Summer Night Feast on June 20, 2012, in Downtown Disney Orlando.

menu -- click for larger image

Midsummer Story -- click for larger image

First Course
Picnic Basket of Assorted Homemade Pates and Jams to feature: Ham Hock Terrines, Potted Prawns, Brandied Chicken Liver Pate, Tomato Bavaroie, Smoked Salmon Mousse and Vegetable Consomme

Second Course
Champagne Splashed Raspberry Sorbet

Second Course

Third Course
Stuffed Suckling Pig
Braised Vegetables, Raising and cider glaze and Potato Roasties

Dessert
Pimms Knickerbocker Glory

Dessert

Cost: $90 per person. To book your reservation, call 407-938-0300 or log on to www.raglanroad.com.

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen’s Beer Dinner

A Karl Strauss Brewing Company Beer Dinner will be held at Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen on Thursday, May 24, at 6 pm in Disneyland’s Downtown Disney district.

Beer Dinner - click image for larger version

The menu created by Chef Darrin Finkel will include Beer Battered Alligator Bites, Red Trolley Braised Oxtail, BBQ Oysters, Blackened Mahi Mahi, Andouille & Pretzel Crusted Gulf Shrimp, Drunken Pork Tenderloin, and Caramel Bread Pudding. Beer pairings will include Red Trolley, Woodie Gold, Wind & Sea Hefeweizen, Amber Lager, Pintail Pale Ale, and Wreck Alley Imperial Stout.

Cost is $65 plus tax and gratuity with full payment due upon booking. Call 714-563-7261 10a-5p for reservations.

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Ode to Disney Dessert Sandwiches

AJ — Tue, 15 May 2012 04:41:18 +0000

You know we like to follow the Disney food trends here on Disney Food Blog, and one that we’re noticing more and more are the “dessert sandwiches” that keep popping up.

Of course, Disney has seemingly always offered the beloved Carrot Cake Cookie and Mickey Ice Cream Sandwich, and now there are a few more options. Let’s take a look at some old and new favorites!

Whoopie pies

Whoopie pies (cake-like cookie sandwiches with frosting or whipped cream in the middle — borne out of the Northeastern United States) are a huge trend nationwide; and over at Sunshine Seasons in The Land, they’ve introduced a red velvet whoopie pie with your favorite mouse right on top!

The frosting inside is buttercream, not cream cheese, but we’re pretty happy with it either way!

Mickey Whoopie Pie at Sunshine Seasons

Decked out in chocolate chips, this is a great one to try while you’re waiting for your Soarin’ fastpass to open up!

And at the Boardwalk Resort, Flying Fish Cafe offers a Trio of Concessions Sweets aptly named “Out on the Boardwalk”. A highlight of this dish is the Peanut Butter-Chocolate-Marshmallow “Moon Pie”.

Peanut Butter Chocolate Whoopie Pie with Pound Cake Fries

The pound cake “fries” have strawberry “ketchup” to add to the look-alike whoopie pie “burger”. It’s an innovative boardwalk dessert…and delicious!

Carrot Cake Cookie

Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is home to the Carrot Cake Cookie, another whoopie-pie like menu item featuring two soft, cake-like cookies with delectable cream cheese frosting sandwiched in between. These days, you can also find these goodies at Sweet Spells in the Studios.

Carrot Cake Cookie

Carrot Cake Cookie Cross Section

Note that these are HUGE. You can probably share with a friend, spouse, or kid (but you don’t have to!).

Nutella and Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich

Sleepy Hollow Refreshments in Magic Kingdom offers this unique waffle sandwich as one of four new additions to the menu!

While this could definitely make a great breakfast entree, we’re loving this one as a dessert sandwich! Nestled inside a full-size waffle, you’ll find chocolatey-hazelnutty Nutella and a large serving of fruit.

Nutella and Fresh Fruit Waffle Sandwich

Homemade Ice Cream Sandwich

Huge, freshly-made cookies with generous scoops of ice cream is a snack large enough to share. But, you don’t have to! Homemade ice cream sandwiches are one of our favorite WDW park treats (and you can even get them for a snack credit!).

Famous Disney Home-Made Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich

You’ll have several opportunities to snag one while you’re in the parks — the Main Street Bakery and Sleepy Hollow in the Magic Kingdom, Dino-Bite Snacks in Animal Kingdom, Fountainview Cafe in Epcot, and Hollywood Scoops in Hollywood Studios — all make them!

Depending on the season, you’ll even have some wonderful options to customize your ice cream sandwich. For ice cream flavors, we’ve seen mint chocolate chip, peppermint, and pumpkin. During holidays, select cookies with colorful sprinkles — or even choose gingerbread snowflake cookies!

Halloween Themed Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich

Brownie Frosting Sandwiches

Now, we’re headed to Downtown Disney’s Earl of Sandwich for brownie frosting sandwiches!

Technically called “Brownie Creme Sandwiches,” we absolutely adore these homemade brownies with a rich, just-out-of-the-oven taste! And the vanilla frosting piped in is extra-sweet and creamy!

Earl of Sandwich Brownie Frosting Sandwich

We were really excited to see two more versions — peanut butter or chocolate brownie sandwiches — on a recent trip to Disney World! The Peanut Butter Brownie Sandwich’s frosting is more like a filling. Peanut butter cup lovers — this one is for you…

PB Brownie Sandwich Close-Up

Chocolate-filled brownie sandwiches will appeal to chocaholics! With super-sweet brownies containing extra chocolate chunks and ooey-gooey chocolate frosting in the middle, you’ll get your chocolate fix with this selection!

Chocolate Filled Brownie Sandwich

Earl of Sandwich has also brought in some ice cream brownie sandwiches, so if ice cream is your preference over frosting, you’re in for a chocolate, vanilla, or strawberry treat!

Mickey’s Premium Ice Cream Sandwich

This classic Mickey ice cream sandwich has crisp chocolate wafers with cookies and cream ice cream sandwiched in the middle of an iconic Mickey face!

This treat is easy to find at the many ice cream kiosks around Walt Disney World’s parks and resorts.

Hello, Mickey!

Honorable Mentions

Waffles with strawberry jam filling at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe and the “Dessert Sandwich Situation” from the 2010 Epcot Food and Wine Festival.

Waffle and Strawberry Jam Sandwich at Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe

Don’t forget to check out more of our favorites on our Best Disney Restaurants page!

Now, it’s your turn. What’s your fave dessert sandwich? Have you found any others at WDW? If so, please clue us in!

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Review: Chocolate Caramel Grapes at Karamell-Küche

AJ — Mon, 14 May 2012 19:30:34 +0000

Epcot's Karamel Kuche Caramel Shop

Time to take a look at another new treat available at one of my very favorite spots in Epcot, Karamell-Küche!

If you aren’t familiar with this little gem in the German Pavilion of World Showcase, you should get to know it. Soon. Seriously. All manner of buttery, caramelly, chocolate-dipped goodness here leaves me a happy, happy girl.

We recently told you about a new addition to the Karamell-Küche lineup: the Caramel Corn Cupcake. Today, we are trying a second new offering: Chocolate and Caramel Covered Grapes. Fruit! Healthy! Hallelujah!

Chocolate Caramel Grapes

I know. They’re a little…different. But I am all about telling you the latest and greatest, so try them I did.

The fresh, red grapes are skewered, then dipped in dark or milk chocolate and drizzled with that yummy, buttery Werther’s caramel.

Close-Up Chocolate Caramel Grapes

The grapes were sweet-tart and juicy, and contrasted nicely with the smooth, creamy, rich chocolate and caramel. If you are a fan of fruit and chocolate combinations, you will most likely enjoy this offering, which is a little more uncommon than your classic chocolate dipped strawberries. Folks who don’t appreciate their chocolate hiding something fruity or juicy probably won’t care for the mouth feel or taste of this snack.

Cross-Section and Close-Up of Chocolate Caramel Grapes

My thoughts? I liked them. I liked the cross between healthy and juicy, and decadent and creamy. I think these will be good for kids, but be sure to unskewer them first (the grapes, not the kids) if junior will be walking-and-eating.

These are also a good between-meal snack that won’t fill you up, but will give you a small-and-satisfying sweet taste.

Will you try Chocolate Caramel Grapes at Karamell-Küche anytime soon? Leave us a comment and let us know!

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Review: Tony’s Town Square

AJ — Mon, 14 May 2012 04:57:32 +0000

Learn About:
Tony’s Town Square

Magic Kingdom
Disney World Restaurants

Today, we’re revisiting a Magic Kingdom institution, Tony’s Town Square for lunch!

In the past, Tony’s Town Square hasn’t wowed me. Decent food and a great view of the Magic Kingdom Town Square (and any parades going on out there!), but nothing to really pull me back to that spot. Read on to see if anything has changed…

Atmosphere

The first thing that we noticed as we arrived for our Advanced Dining Reservation is that Tony’s has a brand new sign out front, depicting the jolly restaurateur himself! I knew this would be there after the recent renovations, but I really liked it!

Tony's Sign

Tony's Entrance

One of the biggest draws of this Magic Kingdom hotspot continues to be the patio seating area. Tony’s is one of the few table service restaurants that offers an outdoor dining experience; and even on super hot Florida days, this is a great place to chill and enjoy a bite to eat!

Tony's Patio

Tony’s has received a brand new neighbor since our last visit — Mickey Mouse and Friends moved into the newly-renovated Town Square Theater / Exposition Hall — and so a few alterations have taken place to restaurant’s waiting area.

New carpet and some other changes will definitely give guests who haven’t been here since Mickey’s debut next door something fresh to see. But the central themeing of the restaurant around the Disney animated classic, Lady and the Tramp, remains firmly and unmistakably in place.

Tony's Check-In

In the lobby waiting area, children and grown-up kids alike can enjoy a few minutes of Lady and the Tramp, which plays constantly on the updated widescreen television. Kids can also color Lady and the Tramp coloring sheets while waiting for their table.

Tony's Waiting Area

It’s hard to miss the movie allusions as you walk in. There are all manner of tributes to these famous Disney pooches, including this lovely statue in the entrance to the restaurant. Really, if you haven’t taken in Tony’s and you’re a fan of this particular film, you’re definitely missing out.

Decor and Theme

Lady and the Tramp statue

There is also a fun piece of trivia regarding the pictures of Lady and the hatbox sign for Le Chapeau across the street.

Check out this fun and enlightening post from SamLand’s Disney Adventures for the skinny on this charming event from Disney history and how the Imagineers bring it to life. Awesome Disney detail from one of my favorite fellow bloggers!

Lady and the Tramp Decor

Don’t forget to tell your family there’s a “Hidden Mickey” here!

Hidden Mickey

There remain three distinct dining areas inside this nostalgic Italian restaurant. The main indoor dining room, with its comfortable family seating and checkerboard floors, is reminiscent of a classic New York City, family-owned, Italian eatery.

Indoor Dining Room

I love that you have booth dining options here. It’s also good on those rare cold Orlando nights.

Indoor Dining Room Booth

The sunroom gives you the impression of dining al fresco while you are still firmly indoors (in air conditioning). It’s a bright and cheerful spot, with outdoor touches like patio furniture and lots of sunlight.

Indoor Sunroom Area

With its skylights and many windows, it always reminds me of an old-fashioned solarium.

Indoor Sunroom Looking to Outdoor Patio

Indoor Sunroom Table

But the real gem and draw at Tony’s is the fantastic patio seating area. Why is it fantastic, you ask? Because this is one of the best spots in Magic Kingdom to catch one of the many parades that take place throughout the day and seasonally in the park!

Outdoor Patio Table

Patio Table at Tony's

As we mentioned in our previous review, if you can score a patio seat approximately an hour or 30 minutes before a parade, the experience is sure to delight you and yours! It may take a little patience and luck on your part, but it’s worth a try.

Here’s a Tip: When you’re planning your dining time, be sure to find out which direction the parade will be coming from so that you’re seated around 30 minutes to an hour before the parade passes by Tony’s. If the parade begins in Frontierland, you’ll have longer to wait than if the parade begins on Main Street.

View from Outdoor Patio Table

Eats

We have come to expect NOT to be dazzled by Tony’s menu. Going into it with my eyes wide open, I can visit this Magic Kingdom eatery with the right perspective and still have an enjoyable experience.

Right off the bat, we noticed that only a few things had changed since our last visit.

Front of Menu

The lunch menu featured a few new items, including the “Taste of Italy” and the Zucchini Fries.

Menu - click image for larger version

We decided to give the Zucchini Fries a try. I know, I know — vegetables?!?! What am I thinking? ;-D Just kidding.

I really liked liked these a lot! They were fresh, well-seasoned, and crisp-tender. The mayonnaise-based, sun-dried tomato dipping sauce was a delicious accompaniment.

Fried Zucchini

I’m not usually (read: EVER) a big fan of mayo, but with the added tang of the dried tomatoes, I thought this sauce was really good. It kind of reminded me of the Cafe Orleans pommes frites dipping sauce in Disneyland, which is pure heaven.

Fried Zucchini Close-Up

My dining partner opted for the Mixed Greens salad, which was tossed with house-made vinaigrette and topped with a sprinkling of feta cheese. He said it was perfectly fine.

Salad

For my entree, I went with the Chicken Florentine Calzone — “Florentine” being a fancy Italian way for letting you know there will be spinach involved . (MORE VEGGIES! WOO!!)

Spinach and Chicken Calzone

While the portion was adequate and the pie was stuffed (semi-)full of the filling mentioned on the menu (although I didn’t see or taste an abundance of caramelized onions), the flavor was a little bland. I definitely needed the red sauce on the side to punch the flavor up a bit.

I liked this, but I wanted it to have a bit more oomph…

Spinach Calzone Close-Up

In contrast to my meal, my dining partner thoroughly enjoyed his Chicken Parmigiana, which happens to be one of his favorite menu items. He’s always up for a comparison of Disney Chicken Parm!

He pronounced his entree delicious, and really enjoyed the afternoon at Tony’s!

Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parm Close-Up

Soon, it was time for something sweet, and since we couldn’t make up our minds, we decided to try three different desserts! (In the name of research, of course!)

Dessert Menu - click image for larger version

The ice cream bomb was our first option. It looks like super fun, right? Ice cream! Chocolate shell! Cake! Chocolate Sauce!

Ice Cream Bomb

Sadly, it was the most disappointing for the three. BORING. The flavors fell flat — especially in the cake, which was somewhat stale (likely from being in a freezer, eh?). Fine, but nothing to write home about.

Inside Ice Cream Bomb

In contrast, I thought the Pistachio Crème Brûlée was delicious!

I’m not always a big fan of Crème Brûlée, but it was spot-on in both flavor and texture. The lace cookie basket filled with fresh strawberries was a pretty and pleasant garnish. (If you’re a fan of Crème Brûlée, check out our Crème Brûlée gallery here!)

Pistachio Crème Brûlée

Crème Brûlée Inside

We also enjoyed the seasonal cheesecake offering, the Strawberry Cheesecake. You’ll find that the the chef at Tony’s changes the cheesecake seasonally; the last time we ate there, we had the Pumpkin Cheesecake (yum!).

Depending on when you dine, you might have a different flavor than we did. This was very good — not-too-sweet, and with a great, silky-creamy texture. And the silkscreen of Lady and the Tramp on our plate was pretty adorable.

Strawberry Cheesecake

Overall

So, Tony’s remains not my favorite restaurant in Magic Kingdom. I find the food to be mediocre with some bright spots. However, my dining partner’s experience was in sharp contrast to mine this time; he really enjoyed our meal here.

Our consensus: the food is improving, and the atmosphere is worth it. Themeing, location, and a predictable menu make Tony’s a spot that everyone should visit at least once. And if you do, try for that patio table, by all means. The parade views and people watching are unparalleled.

Is Tony’s Town Square a favorite pick for you? Leave us a comment below, and let us know your thoughts on this Magic Kingdom hotspot!

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Disney Food Post Round-Up: May 13, 2012

AJ — Sun, 13 May 2012 04:45:31 +0000

Citrus Turkey Plate at Flo's V-8 Cafe in Cars Land

Will you be dining at one of the new Cars Land or Buena Vista Street restaurants at Disney California Adventure when they open on June 15th?

We’re so excited to be taste-testing and reviewing the food offerings, including those at Flo’s V-8 Cafe and Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel!

Disney Food News

Here’s the latest happening in the Disney Food World this week!

Food photos and Tasting Review from the new Flo’s V-8 Cafe and Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel in Cars Land at Disney California Adventure!
We’ve got some great details about Carthay Circle Restaurant and 1901 Lounge, opening June 15th in Disneyland Resort’s Disney California Adventure: food pictures and reservation information; and sneak peek at the interiors.
La Nouba by Cirque du Soleil and House of Blues are offering a Dinner and Show package for 6:00 pm shows June 1 – 30, 2012.
Splitsville is headed to Orlando’s Downtown Disney in Fall 2012. Dine, dance, drink, and bowl! Look for great eats such as sushi, pizza, sliders, and burgers.
Announcing the Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival, plus Kids Eat Free package for Aulani!

We’ve got more food news (including poolside ice cream at Disney World’s Saratoga Springs Resort) on our Disney Food News Pin Board, where Disney Food News is updated on a regular basis!

The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2012 Ebook Review

Thanks to our good friend StudiosCentral.com for a great review of our latest guidebook, The DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining 2012.

Here’s an excerpt:

… the amount of detail here astounds and impresses me. Topics I had never even considered were covered (scavenger hunts, how to avoid meltdowns in WDW restaurants, etc). If you love Walt Disney World and enjoy dining there, then to me there’s no question that you ought to pick up a copy of this book for your collection.

For Studios fans, you’ll find sections in the e-book that are just for you, including: a drinking guide, reviews of counter-service and table-service restaurants, snack recommendations, and a unique one-day dining strategy.

Read the full Studios Central review here!

Order your copy of the DFB Guide to Walt Disney World® Dining today! And don’t forget to check out our other great e-Books at our new DFBStore.com!

On To The Round-Up

AllEars.net’s Andrew Rossi visits the Artist Point at the Wilderness Lodge.

Walt Disney World for Grown Ups investigates options for solo diners at Disney World!

Yesterland reminisces about the Baker’s Field Bakery in Disney California Adventure.

Random Neat Stuff shares vintage Disneyland restaurant menus!

DVCNews announces that soft serve ice cream will be served pool-side at Saratoga Springs Resort.

Daveland shares vintage photos of the Chicken of the Sea Pirate Ship Restaurant in Disneyland. Awesome pics!

Eating (and Drinking) Around the World take us on a culinary tour around Epcot’s World Showcase, including a Wine Walk and pizza at Via Napoli.

Main Street Gazette discovers savory (not sweet) options at Boulangerie Patisserie in Epcot’s France pavilion.

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Aulani Food News: Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival, and Kids Eat Free!

Kim — Sat, 12 May 2012 19:30:55 +0000

The second annual Hawai‘i Food & Wine Festival is a four-day event scheduled for September 6th – 9th, 2012. And the grand finale signature event, “Cuisines of the Stars” A Magical Journey of Food & Culture,” will be held from 6-9pm at Ko Olina Resort, featuring Aulani, on the last evening.

Participants at the many events can look forward to the expertise of 50 international master chefs, as well as renowned wine and spirit makers. Ethnic foods and beverages from around the world will be highlighted.

AmaAma View

Chef Andrew Sutton (Napa Rose, Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel) and Chef Patrick Callarec (Disney’s Aulani Resort) join the culinary team.

Chef Sutton

Chef Callarec

Tickets are on sale now!

Source: DisneyParks Blog

Kids Eat Free Package

To make your trip to Aulani even more enticing, DisneyParks Blog revealed a Kids Eat Free package. Book now through July 14 for resort stays August 29 – November 3.

Kids 3-9 can enjoy free meals from the Kids Menu during breakfast, lunch, and dinner at participating counter-service and table-service restaurants.

outside the Lava Shack -- love the Mickey-shaped ice cream sign

Dining locations included in the offer are: ‘AMA’AMA; Makahiki Buffet; ‘Olelo Room; One Paddle, Two Paddle; Mama’s Snack Stop (opening in June); or Lava Shack. For more info on this benefit and other great Aulani offers visit the DisneyParks Blog.

Aloha!!

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Cars Land First Look: Food Photos and Reviews From Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel

Heather — Sat, 12 May 2012 04:42:30 +0000

After our fun look at Flo’s V-8 Cafe, I couldn’t wait to tell you all about Sally’s Cozy Cone Motel and the eats you can find there come June 15th at Disney California Adventure’s Cars Land!

We now have even more info than we did in our previous Cars Land Menu Post. Read through the menu below, then take a look at our tasting reviews!

Cozy Cone Motel Menu

Cone Number 1
Churro bites with cinnamon-chocolate sauce, cinnamon-spiced hot cocoa, and Ramone’s Pear of Dice Soda made with dessert pear syrup, mojito syrup and Sprite.

Cone Number 2
Soft-serve ice cream and “route” beer floats.

Cone Number 3
Savory bites all served in edible bread cones, such as a bacon-scrambled egg cone for breakfast, chicken verde or chili “cone” queso for lunch and dinner.

Specialty beverages are Fillmore’s Fuelin’ Groovy Ades, all-natural lemonade with wild berry foam, or pomegranate limeade with lemon-lime foam.

Overall Display of Cozy Cone Motel Goodies

Cone Number 4
Serves pretzel bites with cheesy sauce and Red’s Apple Freeze, a fat-free, frozen concoction with apple juice, toasted marshmallow syrup and passion fruit-mango foam.

Cone Number 5
Two flavored popcorns daily, such as dill pickle and sweet & spicy. Other flavors include bacon and cheddar, nacho cheese, salt and vinegar. Specialty drink is Doc’s Wild Grape Tonic (Sprite with wild grape syrup and wild berry foam).

Tasting Reviews

The first thing we got to sample at the tasting was the Pretzel Bites from Cone 4. These were really good, and I think that — when served warm with dipping sauces — they’ll be delicious.

Pretzel Bites, Popcorn, and top of Chile Cone Carne

Once we were over in Flo’s we got to try mini samples of the Chili Cone Carne! You’ll remember this one from our Cars Land menu post a while back!

Chili Cone Carne at Cozy Cone Motel

The chili is not too spicy, and the cheese was really melty and delicious. The cone was thick like a pretzel bread so the chili couldn’t seep through the cone (nope — sadly it isn’t actually pretzel bread). And there are actually real Fritos in the topping as the cone is based on “Frito Pie” from the 1950’s.

The chile is all-beef, and spoons are optional. Really, the food is designed to be eaten right out of the cone (like a Handwich), but if guests prefer, there will be spoons available.

Chile Cone Carne and Churro Bites

To lighten things up, we sampled the Dill Flavored Popcorn, which I got the chance to taste at the Annual Passholder preview a few weeks ago! Here’s my review (I love it!).

Dill Popcorn

We also got to try the “better-for-you” Red’s Apple Freeze beverage from Cone 4. This is frozen apple juice with passion fruit foam (though we didn’t hear anything about the marshmallow syrup; instead, they said they use a “secret ingredient.”)

This drink is fat free, 100% real apple juice, and only 190 calories. It was very good — not too sweet, and really refreshing. The apple juice was tasty, and the foam was nice and light. The consistency wasn’t frozen like a slushy; rather, it was just kind of thick, almost like a slurpee.

In the display, you’ll see some really fun Sippy “Cones.” We didn’t get prices on these, but they do look like a lot of fun!

Sippy Cones and Red's Apple Freeze

We should note that those Fillmore’s Fuelin’ Groovy Ades — all-natural lemonade with wild berry foam, or pomegranate limeade with lemon-lime foam — can be made “high octane” by adding Vodka when you order!

You can see a review of the lemonade with wild berry foam here — they have this at Sunshine Tree Terrace in Disney World right now.

Lemonade with Wild Berry Foam

Fun Merchandise and Food Containers

This Lightening McQueen is actually a popcorn bucket, and you can either order your popcorn in that or in the cone.

Lightning McQueen can be your popcorn bucket!

Speaking of Lightning — you can also get this fun light-up cup featuring the star of the show.

Lightning McQueen Cup

Overall

I think the Cozy Cone Motel will be a great grab-and-go stop, and the food will be the perfect addition to Cars Land. Beverages are refreshing and different from what you’ll find elsewhere in the park (and we like that High Octane version as well!).

Don’t forget to peek at our review of Cars Land’s Flo’s V-8 Cafe entrees and desserts here as well!

What menu items will be on your list when you visit Cars Land?

Thanks to Disney for inviting me to attend this Food Preview event! While the food was complimentary, all of my opinions are my own. See more on our disclosure policy.

Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here!

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First Look! Food Photos and Tasting Review From Flo’s V-8 Cafe in Cars Land

Heather — Fri, 11 May 2012 14:53:33 +0000

Today I had the pleasure of walking behind the closed off walls of Cars Land in Disney California Adventure. This brand new land in the Disneyland Resort has been under construction for years, and I couldn’t believe I was actually going to get a sneak peek…and even get to sample some of the brand new menu items that will be served there and on Buena Vista Street when they open next month!

Standing under the mountains of Ornament Valley with the Radiator Springs Racers whizzing by, I had to take a deep breath. Goosebumps on my arms, tears in my eyes. What in the world was happening to me? I’ve watched the progress of Cars Land from day one, and now, it’s nearly done.

Flo's V-8 Cafe Under Construction in Cars Land

Just weeks away from the June 15th grand opening and there I stood, inside getting a sneak peek! The only way for me to describe Cars Land is simple and true. You are IN Radiator Springs. You have stepped into Cars.

After telling myself to get it together and wishing I could take a photo, I followed the other attendees into Flo’s V8 Cafe for a sampling of the menu!

Menu and Backstory of Flo's V-8 Cafe

Because Flo’s is not 100% complete, photos were not allowed, the pictures you see here were from a “preview” room that we were taken to beforehand.

Atmosphere

I’ll do my best to describe to you in detail the atmosphere of Flo’s. Flo’s is a counter service restaurant serving up breakfast, lunch & dinner. Upon entering, be sure to look up. There is a giant light fixture made of shiny tail pipes.

Flo’s caters to the growing number of Route 66 visitors and race fans coming to Radiator Springs, with a “showroom” dining area that overlooks the Radiator Springs Racers attraction. The cafe also is home to Flo’s personal memorabilia, collected during her glamorous career as a singer with the Motorama Girls.

The service area includes several walk-up kiosks (or food pods) divided by road barrier type blockades to keep you in your line. The main color of the cafe is turquoise. There is a giant juke box fixture at the counter. Two main dining rooms make up the cafe, and there is both indoor (booths & tables) and outdoor seating.

Best of all? You can’t beat the view from the dining rooms. One side features a perfect view of Sally’s Cozy Cones and the other — a breathtaking view of Ornament Valley.

Flo's V8 Cafe

I was blown away by the research and planning that went into the making of Cars Land. Michele Gendreau, Disney Director of Food and Beverage, told us that she took a 3 day, 17 stop trip on Route 66 to get inspiration for Cars Land menu items.

One of the most memorable spots, the Midpoint Cafe in Midpoint, Texas, played a huge role in the development of Flo’s.

Midpoint Cafe: The Inspiration for Flo's

Eats

Noting the popularity of the “rotisserie” in the 1950’s, Michele shared with us that one of the goals at Flo’s was to contemporize classic rotisserie comfort food dishes. Examples of this are the rotisserie Pork Loin and the Citrus Turkey and the NY Strip Loin.

The Citrus Turkey was amazing. Moist and flavorful, served atop mashed potatoes with roasted vegetables and a brioche bun. Talk about comfort food! The sampling I had included the turkey, potatoes, and the brioche bun. All three items were fabulous.

Citrus Turkey Plate

Next up was the Coca-Cola BBQ Pork Loin. This dish was was another home run in the comfort food game.

Again, the meat was tender, juicy and flavorful. But what really makes this dish is the BBQ sauce — Coca Cola BBQ sauce! Sweet and tangy, this dish is served open face atop Texas Toast.

We were given a small sampling of the meat with coleslaw, one of the optional sides. The coleslaw was delightful. Not too full of mayo, and just enough flavor without being overwhelmed by vinegar.

Coca-Cola BBQ Pork Loin Plate with Texas Toast

The NY Strip Loin was not on our “sample” platter, but it does look tasty! Pictured below, you can see it’s smothered in gravy with a side of coleslaw, “Radiatore” Pasta Salad & a brioche roll. I’m sure the steak lover in you will rejoice when you order this Spit-fire Rotisserie Classic.

Something I was very excited to learn about and try were the vegetarian options here at Flo’s. There were two prominent dishes that Michele spoke highly of: the Veggie Tater Bake with roasted vegetables and the Vegetarian BBQ Beans.

The Veggie Tater Bake is Disney’s take on the ever popular comfort food, Shepherd’s Pie. The dish is layered and features a perfect slice of melty cheddar cheese on top.

Honestly, I feel that the chefs have done an amazing job at creating a vegetarian item that is “original” and exciting — something new that can be ordered as is with no modifications. The dish was very flavorful, and if I didn’t know it was filled with “Boca” crumbles, I would have assumed it was meat.

The textures were nice and that slice of cheese on top sealed the deal. The photo below shows the item served with classic peas and carrots and a brioche roll. The Disney Parks Blog recently shared a recipe for it here.

Veggie Tater Bake

Here it's called a "Casserole" but we were told it was a "Bake."

From what I could tell, entrees were ordered and then served with two “sides.” Sides include coleslaw, veggies, mashed potatoes, “Radiatore” pasta salad, and vegetarian BBQ beans. The beans, which are pictured above with the pork loin plate, were really amazing. The tangy BBQ sauce (yes, that Coca-Cola sauce) makes for some yummy beans. I didn’t have a chance to confirm it, but I believe that the same Boca crumbles were also in this dish.

Beverages

Our “tasting” didn’t stop here. We were lucky enough to also sample the milkshakes that will be available at Flo’s. Three different flavors will be available — your classics of course: chocolate, strawberry & vanilla.

We were able to taste the vanilla shake, which would’ve been my first choice in flavor, so YAY for me! The shakes served at Flo’s are all topped with “road gravel,” aka chocolate and strawberry pearls. A really fun touch, and they look pretty too! I also enjoyed the crunch of the pearls atop my frothy rich shake.

As far as beverages go, Flo’s serves Coca Cola products, of course. But, if you’re looking to get your “adult” beverage on, they will also feature beers from two local breweries. You’ll find Racer 5 IPA and Red Rocket Ale from Bear Republic Brewery as well as selections from Anaheim Brewery.

California wines by the glass will include Fess Parker Riesling, Silverado Chardonnay, Chappellet Mountain Cuvee Cabernet Sauvignon, and Eppa Superfruit Red Sangria.

Dessert

Enough with entrees and beverages though. Let’s get down to business and talk about PIE!

This is where that Midpoint Cafe inspiration REALLY comes in. Known for their “Ugly Crust” pies, Disney Food and Beverage was so impressed by these that they came back from their Route 66 trip wanting to create their own versions of the pies.

We were told a funny story that the Disney pastry chefs are such perfectionists that they had a very hard time using “ugly” in their creations. The individual serving pies are made on premises, and I was incredibly lucky to taste all four of them.

The Apple Cheddar and the Chocolate Mud Pie will be offered daily, and the Blueberry Peach, and Strawberry Rhubarb are rotating flavors. Disney also mentions cherry pies on the menu above!

Ugly Crust Pies Display

My absolute favorite was the Apple Cheddar. While it sounds like an odd combo, apple pie was traditionally served with a slice of cheddar cheese, especially in the 1950’s.

The cheese is not at all overwhelming, in fact it’s very complimentary. The crust was thick, but not hard; cooked to perfection, it was golden and flaky to boot.

Apple Cheddar Ugly Crust Pie

My second favorite was the Blueberry Peach. I LOVE both blueberries and peaches, and this combo was divine.

Peach Blueberry Ugly Crust Pie

Next up was the Strawberry Rhubarb. Also tasty, and my third favorite, it was a lovely combination of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb.

Strawberry Rhubarb Ugly Crust Pie

And finally, you might think I’m crazy, but my least favorite pie was the Chocolate Mud Pie. I’ve said it before, but I’m really not a big chocolate fan. I like chocolate, but when given the choice, I always go for fruity desserts. Although I found out it did not have coffee in it, I swear I tasted a hint of coffee. AND my lovely friend Mr. Daps said that he tasted the same, so I know I’m not totally crazy!

Anyhow, the chocolate was smooth and I liked the addition of chocolate crust. In fact I’m sure most people would love this. I just wasn’t a big fan especially compared to the awesome fruitiness that was happening alongside it.

Chocolate Mud Ugly Crust Pie

Overall

Overall, I was beyond impressed with the menu here at Flo’s V8 Cafe. The whole experience was fantastic and the menu is full of so many creative new dishes.

The decor is beyond fabulous, and, like I said, you can’t beat the view from the dining rooms. The whole time I was sitting there, I was daydreaming that a cast member would come up to me and say, “Hey Heather, let’s go take a spin on Radiator Springs Racers!”

I can’t wait for you to enjoy Flo’s V8 Cafe for yourself! I got the chance to sample a few items from Buena Vista Street as well, so stay tuned for those reviews coming soon!

Are you planning to head to Flo’s when Cars Land opens? Any must try menu items on your mind?

Thanks to Disney for inviting me to attend this Food Preview event! While the food was complimentary, all of my opinions are my own. See more on our disclosure policy.

Heather Sievers is the Disney Food Blog’s Dining in Disneyland columnist. See more of her columns here!

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Guest Review: Dawa Bar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom

AJ — Fri, 11 May 2012 05:17:58 +0000

Welcome to Friday Happy Hour! Guest Author Melissa Sue Sorrells Galley takes us to one of our favorite rest stops — the Dawa Bar in Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

You sure do a lot of walking in Animal Kingdom. The paths are beautiful, but they’re long. And after a morning touring Disney’s most animalriffic theme park, I like to stop for a nice, refreshing drink. Luckily, there’s a perfect place for resting and sipping in Africa’s Harambe Village.

Dawa Bar in Harambe Village

Atmosphere

Located just as you cross the bridge into Harambe, Dawa Bar is inside a huge, covered pavilion just next to the line to get into Tusker House and across from Tamu Tamu Refreshments.

Dawa Bar Seating

It’s a great place to sit, relax and watch Harambe pass you by. If you time your cocktail right, you can even catch a performance by Tam Tam Congo. But even when they’re not performing, there’s a great loop of music playing through the speakers in the pavilion, creating a fun, casual atmosphere.

Harambe Drummers

The bar itself is beautiful—it looks like an honest-to-goodness thatched-roofed hut, complete with overhead fans and bare lighting. It’s decorated with multicolored liquor and beer bottles from all over the world, a sight for sore eyes (and feet).

Dawa Bar

Drinks

Dawa offers a full menu of beers and wines—both domestic and imported from Africa. But on this day, Tracy and I were there for the specialty cocktails.

Bottled beers include American favorites like Blue Moon and more obscure lagers like Tusker.

My blogging partner-in-crime photographs Dawa’s cocktail menu.

Remember: we’re in Animal Kingdom, and that means all of our straws are made of paper. If you’re actually planning to use the straw, ask for some extras to take back to your seat with you. I hate watching my straw melt in my drink.

Bartender Bob from Boston pours them strong.

Tracy ordered the African Margarita, which is made with Sauza Gold Tequila, Van der Hum Tangerine Liqueur, sweet and sour mix and lime juice. She doesn’t like salt in her drinks, so she was drinking through her straw, and without salt, the drink was slightly bitter.

I took my sip from the salty rim, though, and I have to say, the salt really brightened up the margarita a lot! I’m definitely a tequila girl, and I really liked this one.

Harambe Cooler and African Margarita.

I ordered the Harambe Cooler, a mix of Starr African Rum and Myers’ Original Dark Rum mixed with Pangani Punch. I don’t know what’s in Pangani Punch, but this drink certainly packs a punch!

It was extremely strong and sweet. And delicious, of course.

Overall

Dawa Bar is a boozy haven in the middle of a very busy part of the park. The bartenders are friendly, the drinks are strong and the ambiance is casual. Both of our drinks were generous, as were the pours of liquor, and they could easily have been shared. Add it to your touring plan.

Melissa Sue Sorrells Galley works in higher education communications in upstate New York, where she lives with her husband, Robert, and her cavapoo, George. She’s is the co-editor of Mouse on the Mind.

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