Category: DINING

DINING, Uncategorized June 8, 2019June 8, 2019

INTER-GALACTIC FARE: THE FOOD AT Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge.

The Star Wars-themed land has opened in California already and is set to open on August 29 in Florida’s Hollywood Studios. And the food at this land will surely be unique and different. LOTS of thought and creative minds back each and every item in the land.

The Coca-Cola Company introduces hundreds of new products each year to give people more of the drinks they want in a range of innovative packaging – but none quite like this. Spherical “orb” bottles – which will be exclusive to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge – stay true to the Star Wars aesthetic with a rounded look, resealable caps and brand names printed on scuffed, rusted labels in Aurebesh, the written language featured in the film franchise.

Food and drink at Black Spire Outpost will be purely out of this world, and served at a few eateries and watering holes, including the newly-revealed Ronto Roasters, Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo, and Oga’s Cantina.

“If it looks like one thing and maybe it tastes like something else, that could be really cool. Given that no-one has made or tasted Star Wars before, Disney wants every guest to be surprised. The goal is a “farm to table” feel full of surprises. I’d love the cookbook!

BIRTHDAY PARTY IDEAS, DINING March 8, 2019March 2, 2019

Having a birthday at Disney? Here are 5 ways to make it extra special

Decorate your room. There are two ways you can do this: The pricey way or a reasonable way. To do it the pricey way, visit this website by clicking here. They will really bling out your room in style. What’s the other way? Bring decorations. Cover your kitchen table, bring streamers and party plates. Have the Birthday VIP wake up to a surprise!
Give the Birthday VIP something special to wear all day. Disney has those buttons they like to give out, but in our opinion buttons for little kids can be dangerous. We usually go with a crown.
Did you reserve a character meal? If you tell them that you are celebrating a birthday they will give you a cupcake (yes even at breakfast) as well as a signed card from all of the characters. If you are Lucky they will even sing to you!
Order a specialty cake. If you are dining in the Magic Kingdom, they will have a birthday cake ready for you (for an extra cost, of course). You must have a reservation to order a cake. You can add a Mickey Mouse celebration cake to any future reservation by calling (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463. Or, order in-person at the restaurant’s host podium, or at the Concierge Desk at your Disney Resort hotel. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. Requests for same-day cakes must be made in person upon arrival at the restaurant.
Don’t feel like telling anyone it’s your birthday? Well, you’ll be in Disney World on vacation. So that should be a present enough.

A mickey table cloth, some Pez, snap bracelets, some resort lollipops, and some fun coloring pages make a fun morning birthday celebration
A little face paint can make the day extra special
Birthday Crown
A few presents in the room can’t hurt!
Mickey Cake (ordered separately and in advance) and a standard Disney birthday cupcake (provided upon request)

DINING, DISNEY RESORTS March 2, 2019March 2, 2019

Monsieur Paul – A signature dining experience

Dinner is the evening. So we headed to Epcot because good food is the foundation of genuine happiness – or so say the French. The menu speaks for itself, as do our pictures:

two credits on the dining plan as a signature meal or $$$$
Kids menu
Main courses
optional tasting menu – additional cost on top of dining plan
appetizers

When you enter, you are met with a beautiful spiral staircase and reserved hostesses. We chose the tasting menu to experience everything that France had to offer at that particular moment. We started off with this:

Our kids started off with this:

mozarella sticks and cherry tomato salad

salad
pate appetizer also available

kids grilled chicken and FRENCH fries
Tuna
French service
sorbet to clean the pallet
Fromage! Bring on the cheese
cheese!

What is not pictured is the constant bread service – best bread is from France!

Is the experience worth it? Absolutely. You could tell that every morsel that hit your mouth was well made. We also did not leave feeling disgustingly full.

Keep in mind that this restaurant is 2 points on the dining plan as a signature restaurant. They also have many add on options – but if you are here you may as well enjoy yourselves. The greatest part is that if you want to skip dessert, there is a wonderful ice cream spot with artisanal French flavors (16) and macaroon sandwiches.

CHARACTER DINING, DINING, Uncategorized January 26, 2019January 26, 2019

SNOW WHITE HAS ARRIVED AT THE WILDERNESS LODGE

Did you know there is now an Enchanted Forest within the Wilderness Lodge?

I’m whistling while I write.

Long ago, I wrote on this site that Snow White deserved more. Snow White has been at the parade, she has dined with other princesses at Akershus, and she also has a special spot on Main Street.

And now, Snow White, Dopey, Grumpy and the Evil Queen all have their own dining experience at the Wilderness Lodge.

Although reservations are very hard to get, I got them. I can’t wait to report on the new dining experience at Artist Point, in the Wilderness Lodge!

With this menu, all you can do is hi ho all the way to dinner.

This meal costs $55 for adults and $33 for children ages 3-9 (tax and gratuity not included). For those on the Disney Dining Plan, one table service credit will be redeemed per Guest.

Once you get into the Enchanted Forest, you’ll find that the meal is very different (or so I have heard). So different, that each guest gets their own enchanted apple.

According to Disney sources, the storybook-themed dining experience begins with shared appetizers including Hunter’s Pie with chicken, black truffle, and stone fruit preserve, Winter Squash Bisque with caramel loli and granola served in an adorable black cauldron, Wicked Shrimp Cocktail with soy, miso, avocado, thai chili, and greens, and From the Garden, an array of fruits, vegetables, cheese, and create-your-own honey butter.

Then, you’ll be able to choose from an entrée from a prix fixe menu. Feast on the Royal Prime Rib Roast, Brother’s Grimm Roasted Chicken, Magic Mirror Slow Braised Veal Shank, Seafood Stew and Bashful’s Butter Poached Snapper. Or enjoy the vegetarian option – A Stroll Through Nature – featuring butternut squash, arugula and gnocchi.

Children can choose from Royal Prime Rib Roast, Grilled Chicken, Princess Pasta and Vegetarian Steam Bun.

For dessert enjoy “Poison” Apple; Fairy Tale Gooseberry Pie; a sponge cake with chocolate gems and buttercream icing called Miner’s Treasures; and The Hunter’s Gift to the Queen, which features cracked maple popcorn with a ganache heart.

The meal is roughly $35 for kids, $55 for adults, or 1 credit on the dining plan.

Stay tuned for pictures! And feedback! And remember, you’re the one who can fill the world with sunshine!

DINING, Uncategorized November 17, 2018November 27, 2018

FIVE FLAVORS YOU MAY FIND AT BOMA FLAVORS OF AFRICA

BOMA Flavors of Africa is designed much like an African Marketplace (not like Tusker House, though, in terms of urban feel).

If you are lucky enough to be the first family to arrive at Boma for the evening, you will be treated to a live drum dance in your honor.

As far as dining, there is a buffet. You will find a kid friendly station with macaroni and cheese and chicken nuggets at the far right.

My take on this restaurant? It did not have as much of an African feel as some of the other Animal Kingdom Restaurants. If it weren’t for the food offerings, you could have been anywhere. The children’s selection was not as varied as some of the other Disney buffets. Let’s face it, there is a strong likelihood that children will not want to try all of what Boma has to offer (as delicious as it is). There should have been way more children’s options.

Here are a few flavorful foods that you may find at Boma:

bloom blossom close up flora — Photo by Brent Keane on Pexels.com

Hibiscus is a flavor used in West African cooking and has a sweet and sour taste. Not only is it used in recipes for sweet tea(sometimes also called roselle or Jamaican Water), but the flower is also cooked in main dishes such as Hibiscus Flower Enchiladas.
Jungle Juice: Don’t fear the name. This is simply a delicious blend of passion fruit, guava, and other juices to nourish your body. For those moms who are breastfeeding, click here for more info on the benefits of jungle juice to breastfeeding moms
Bread Pudding – Did you think Bread Pudding originated in New Orleans? Food historians trace the history of bread pudding to the early 11th and 12th centuries, as frugal cooks looked for ways to use stale, leftover bread instead of letting it go to waste. In 13th century England, bread pudding was known as “poor man’s pudding,” as it was a popular dish with the lower classes. Now, the pudding offered at Boma will amaze your tastebuds and leave you full for days.
Ghanian Ox-tail stew – don’t let the name scare you. Oxtail stew is the perfect one dish meal to keep you nutritiously satisfied – and an African tradition. Don’t want to try a whole bowl? Take a few tablespoons!
Soups: Harira Soup, South African Lobster Soup
Watermelon Rind Salad – probably my favorite of all. Perfect combination of sweet and tangy.

DINING, DISNEY RESORTS, lists! what NOT to have or do on your trip September 23, 2018September 23, 2018

FIVE THINGS NOT TO DO AT JIKO THE COOKING PLACE

Also the name of Animal Kingdom’s Signature Dining Experience, “Jiko” is Swahili for “a cooking place.” So “Jiko – The Cooking Place” literally means “A Cooking Place – The Cooking Place.” In true “cooking place” form, Jiko has two wood burning ovens that make you feel as if you are actually standing next to a fire. The chefs prepare offerings in an open kitchen for all to see.

Here are five things not to do if you decide to enter Jiko:

DON’T wear a bathing suit and flip flops. You might be at a Disney Resort, close to the pool level, but this is a Signature Restaurant and there is a dress code. According to Disney, Signature Dining restaurants provide unparalleled cuisine in upscale, elegant surroundings, sampling only the finest fare Disney chefs can prepare. Dress for the occasion! At least cover yourself up!
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
DON’T expect to see any animals while you dine. Jiko does not have any windows overlooking the African Savannah. Disappointed? Don’t be. The food on your plate will be so delicious and inviting that you won’t be able to focus on anything else.

KIDS MENU

MINT TEA
DON’T forget your wallet – this restaurant is pricey. Two points on the dining plan and anywhere from $70-150 per adult. Don’t worry. No need to bring African currency – the restaurant takes US dollars, credit cards, and Magic Bands! For those who are wondering, US dollars are also very popular in Africa and can usually be used as currency without converting. Many places frequented by the Bantu people also use shillings as a form as currency – but currency throughout Africa varies.
Photo by Pixabay on Pexels.com
Looking for a red wine to go with your steak? DON”T expect to see Malbec or your favorite French Wine on the menu. Jiko is known for authentic African wines. There are wines that you won’t be able to find anywhere else on property and very few locations across the US outside of Disney World. For you wine fans out there, this is a great opportunity to try and experience new flavors and test your wine palate. If you want to take this experience to the next level, you can schedule a wine tasting that is offered on Wednesdays. You will get to sample wines from the South Africa region along with cheese pairings. The wine pairing experience is by reservation only. For guests over 8, the Wanyami Safari Experience (special reservation through Guest Service) allows time for you on a trek through the African Savannah and then a multi-course dinner with wine tasting is supposed to be incredible!
Photo by PhotoMIX Ltd. on Pexels.com
DON”T be afraid to try new foods – because I guarantee, if you are not familiar with African culture, you will not understand more than half of what is on the menu. But it is tasty, I promise. Start out with the “Taste of Africa” you will see!
DO bring your appetite! We were stuffed after this experience. Because you do not want to miss a bite!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

DINING, quick service, theme parks March 31, 2018March 25, 2018

The True Service Test: Quick Service at Be Our Guest

There are no lunch ladies – here! There are no real “servers”” at all. In fact all you need to deal with is the serving ware. Other than a virtual order on screen in the front, you will never be handed a menu or speak a verbal order to a server.

If you are lucky enough to get a reservation at Be Our Guest, take my advice and place your order IN ADVANCE via the mydisneyexperience app. If you place your order in advance, you will be directed to a MUCH SHORTER line.
Here is the menu (click here) study it!! Below is the tuna nicoise salad

Once you walk into the Beast’s Castle, you will not be seated by anyone… that’s right!! Choose, a room, choose a table – we recommend sitting by the beverage station (orange juice/apple juice/soda/coffee/hot cocoa).

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

Without servers, how does your food get to you? Don’t worry, it does, you don’t even need to tell them where you are sitting. Go ahead, try to fool the magic.

The breakfast is definitely not as delicious as the lunch or dinner – but it’s still magical. And it basically guarantees you a ride on the Peter Pan Ride or even Mine Train if you make your reservation before the park opens.

DINING, SIGNATURE DINING, theme parks March 18, 2018March 18, 2018

LET THEM EAT… STEAK!!!

The good news is that if we all move to Canada we will eat like kings and queens.

Is steak the national food of Canada? No. But the traditional aboriginal food of Canada was wild game. So the country in general is very good at preparing meat.

Poutine is the unofficial national dish. Don’t know what Poutine is? Poutine originates out of Quebec and consists of french fries covered in cheese curds and brown gravy. Does that sound disgusting to you? Well, it’s not!

O Canada!
Our home and native land!
True patriot love in all of us command.
With glowing hearts we see thee rise,
The True North strong and free!
From far and wide,
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
God keep our land glorious and free!
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.
O Canada, we stand on guard for thee.

Instead of driving about 36 hours north to the Canadian border, we made a reservation at Le Cellier, one of Disney’s signature dining restaurants. This may have been one of the best signature experiences in the Disney Parks (I’ll leave out the resorts, because there are so many great places at the resorts that this restaurant probably equals the signature resorts). If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, “signature” means it is 2 table service credits.

The Canada Pavilion itself is beautiful. There are flowers, waterfalls, and caverns. A brewery. There is a movie with Martin Short. Benches to sit on.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

When you walk into Le Cellier, there is a great waiting room that makes you feel as your are in a Canadian loghouse.

Then you enter the relatively small restaurant. Also, be aware, the bathrooms are not the best bathrooms at Disney. They are small and not family friendly.

The porterhouse steak for two was the best steak I’ve ever tasted. I mean it. And I have been to some nice steakhouses.

Don’t worry, I did not forget to show you the poutine!!!

Is Elmer Fudd Canadian? I don’t know but I thought this was appropriate somehow:

I can’t wait to visit the real Canada again, but for now – this visit made us all very happy.

CHARACTER DINING, DINING March 6, 2018March 2, 2018

THE BOARDWALK’S BON VOYAGE ADVENTURE BREAKFAST

Get out your compass and look for Disney’s Boardwalk! Because there is a relatively new character breakfast on the horizon and looking East, West, North & South you will finally get to see two of Disney’s favorite couples together in one room. I love the looks of it!

It looks like a regular restaurant, front – doesn’t it? But what you don’t know is that a feast for adventurers hides inside.

And the two couples? Flynn Rider & Rapunzel, Prince Eric & Ariel. How often do you see them together, if not in the parade?

The boys aren’t in these pictures. But trust me, they are there. And they are full of character and love to talk. AND sign autographs. Flynn Rider makes his presence known – even though he is on every wanted poster in the kingdom.

The menu has an Italian flair, with an under the sea theme.

I hear the tangled eggs were the fluffiest eggs on the face of this earth. My frittata, on the other hand, tasted like cardboard. I wasn’t there to eat, though (right?!). I was there for the adventure song. The Ariel parade. And the beautiful pastries served in the beginning for everyone to share.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

CHARACTER DINING, DINING, SIGNATURE DINING, Uncategorized March 4, 2018February 28, 2018

YOU WON’T NEED A COMPASS TO FIND THE NEW ALE & COMPASS.. BUT THE FOOD IS DELICIOUS!!

It is portrayed as a gastropub inspired restaurant reminiscent of a cozy lighthouse. While I respectfully disagree with this description, I have to say that this new restaurant that replaces THE CAPTAIN’S TABLE and THE YACHT CLUB is not to be missed.

While there are no views that really made me feel as if you are in a cozy lighthouse, the food itself leaves an impression strong enough to serve as a navigational aid for a million maritime pilots at sea. Right now, the reservations are somewhat easy – but you should grab one now before the word starts spreading.

The gastrobpub inspired fare was inspirational (1 TS credit on the dining plan).

The fare is not really toddler/child friendly. Kids can choose “skirt steak”, “cheeseburger”, or ravioli. Make sure that you ask that the side of fried green beans be substituted by fries.

For dessert, kids have the choice of “smores” or mini macaroon ice cream sandwiches. All I have to say is, the picture below says a thousand words. As inspirational as it is, would you have tried this gourmet smore with dried strawberries at four years old?

Luckily, there were amazing appetizers and main courses for my children to nibble on with me.

These rolls with bacon jam and chive butter on the side:

Or this grape leaf wrapped baked goat cheese:

The appetizers were a hit with my children, and the servers were more than happy to replenish the rolls and toasted baguette.

For dinner, I chose the Tbone steak with truffled butter.

The steak came with a side of homemade barbecue sauce. For me, the sauce was the best part. I used it as dip. Could not finish the steak – wasn’t the best I’ve tasted.

If I hadn’t been on the dining plan, I would have had appetizers instead of a main course, so I suggest you do the same until they work out the kinks!

Grape Leaf-wrapped Baked Goat Cheese

Hearth Oven Pie

Parker House Rolls and Spreads

Roasted Garlic Shrimp

– Roasted garlic shrimp – $15.00

And don’t forget about the dessert! The pavlova and trio of puddings was absolutely amazing!!

This slideshow requires JavaScript.

here at wdw info. The Disney menu doesn’t seem to be working – maybe they are tweaking it!

Despite the pros and cons, I would definitely go back. It’s always exciting to have a new restaurant!

So pump up your cuisine and your palette! Just go!