Monthly Archives: February 2015

Feb 16 2015

A Tale Of Two Resorts Traveler’s Reference February Giveaway

Exciting News

I am giving away a copy of my new book “A Tale of Two Resorts: Comparing Disneyland and Walt Disney World – A Traveler’s Reference”!

A Little About My Book

Are you trying to decide between a trip to Disneyland or Walt Disney World? Or maybe you have visited one resort and are curious about the other? My new book, “A Tale of Two Resorts: Comparing Disneyland and Walt Disney World – A Traveler’s Reference”, is now available!

This reference book is loaded with facts and information about all of the hotels, restaurants, attractions, experiences, entertainment choices and resort extras that are available at Disneyland and Walt Disney World. Each chapter begins with a handy side-by-side chart that compares each destination and concludes with a “For What It’s Worth” section that gives my personal thoughts and opinions. Topics include Lay of the Land, Atmosphere, Weather, Crowds, Events, Budgeting, Planning Timeline, Accommodations, Admission Tickets, Transportation, Theme Parks, Resort Extras, Dining and of course, there’s helpful advice about planning your trip and organizing your day.

As a mom with two boys of my own, I understand the many challenges of traveling with young kids. Throughout “A Tale of Two Resorts”, I’ve included several features for parents that will help you plan your Disney trip plus they’ll make your vacation easier once you arrive at the resort. Here are just a few of these invaluable features:

  • In Chapter 8 Accommodations – I’ve included detailed information about every resort including room types available and resort amenities. If you need to know if a particular hotel has a kiddie pool, offers on site childcare or even how many people the room will accommodate, you’ll find those important answers.
  • In Chapter 11 Theme Parks – I’ve included a Word of Warning for each and every attraction that needs one, giving you a heads up on what to expect and what you need to be aware of before taking your child on that particular ride.
  • In Chapter 13 Dining – I’ve included specifics for every dining location from table service to snack stand such as atmosphere, cuisine type, dress code and even menu selections including the kid’s meals that are offered. So if you are like me and have kids that are picky eaters, you’ll know exactly where to find those all important chicken nuggets or macaroni & cheese.

Whether you are going to Disneyland or Disney World and especially if the decision between the two destinations is still being made, “A Tale of Two Resorts” will give you all of the information you need to make the better choice and plenty of advice for planning that magical vacation!

The Giveaway

From now through Friday, February 27, 2015, please enter daily to win a copy of my new book “A Tale of Two Resorts: Comparing Disneyland and Walt Disney World – A Traveler’s Reference”. Just click the image below and follow the instructions to be entered into the giveaway. Be sure to take advantage of the bonus entries, and please feel free to share with your friends and family!  

A Tale of Two Resorts

Can’t wait and need to get the book right away?
Please click this link, to purchase your copy today!

Like politics and religion, the topic of which destination is better – Disneyland or Walt Disney World – is sure to fire up the faithful. In “A Tale of Two Resorts”, Kristi Fredericks takes no side, but she does deliver the most comprehensive reference guide for both resorts available anywhere.

Feb 13 2015

Friday Favorites: Best Dishes From Around Disney World

Chef Mickey

For today’s Friday Favorites, I thought it would be fun to take a look at favorite Disney World foods. Of course, we all love Mickey Mouse ice cream bars and Dole Whips, but what about actual meals? Well, Disney has been keeping track and they have a list of the dishes that have been so popular they have never left the menus. So without further ado, here are the best dishes from around Disney World… (all photos courtesy of Disney)

Crispy Fried Chicken at Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Pioneer Hall, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

On the menu since the dinner show opened in 1974, servers dish up about 900 pounds of fried chicken every night, and cooks spend about six hours each day just breading the chicken. Add 400 pounds of pork ribs, 120 pounds of corn, 400 pounds of mashed potatoes and 30 gallons of baked beans. Three shows nightly.

Strawberry-Chicken Salad, Plaza Inn, Magic Kingdom.

This simple salad has been tossed every day since the Magic Kingdom opened in 1971. Forget hot dogs and hamburgers, fans head to this little restaurant on Main Street, U.S.A., for a generous bowl of greens with grilled chicken breast, strawberries and Gorgonzola with white zinfandel vinaigrette. And you can end with a classic banana split or hot fudge sundae. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Cheddar Cheese Soup, Le Cellier Steakhouse, Canada pavilion, Epcot World Showcase.

One of the most-requested recipes is for this creamy bowl of soup that’s made with Canadian beer, cheddar and Applewood-smoked bacon. It’s so popular that it’s also now a mainstay on the menu at the annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Canada Marketplace. Le Cellier Steakhouse is open daily for lunch and dinner.

Creamy Lobster Soup, Coral Reef Restaurant, Epcot.

With an amazing view of a coral reef with sharks, turtles, rays and fish (the largest inland saltwater environment ever built), the menu at this Future World restaurant changes often to reflect the seasons and sustainable seafood. But the Creamy Lobster Soup has never left the menu, an indulgent starter with fresh tarragon and a splash of Brandy. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Mom’s Old-Fashioned Pot Roast, 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Classic American comfort food and 1950s kitsch make this a favorite stop for families, with a menu that reflects the theme: pork chops, chicken pot pie, meatloaf. But it’s Mom’s Old-Fashioned Pot Roast that’s received the most praise since the restaurant opened in 1989. The slow-cooked beef is served with garlic mashed potatoes, brown gravy, carrots, celery and onions. Open daily for lunch and dinner. (For my full review of this restaurant, please click here.)

Cobb Salad, The Hollywood Brown Derby, Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

This salad was iconic before it was even on the menu at the Disney re-creation of the historic California restaurant. As the story goes, Brown Derby owner Bob Cobb tossed the first version for a late-night snack for a Tinsel Town movie star. The Disney version sticks to the original with finely chopped greens, turkey breast, eggs, blue cheese, bacon and avocado. Open daily for lunch and dinner.

Potato-Wrapped Red Snapper, Flying Fish Cafe, Disney’s BoardWalk.

While the chefs at Flying Fish Cafe cook with seasonality and sustainability in mind, this elegant dish has never left the menu since opening day in 1996. Fresh snapper is wrapped in thinly sliced potatoes, then pan-fried until crisp and golden. The fish is served over a rich leek fondue with veal glace de viande and red wine-cassis butter reduction. Open daily for dinner.

Cedar Plank-roasted King Salmon, Artist Point, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

You can smell the roasting cedar planks when you walk enter the spacious dining room that pays homage to America’s national park lodges. The menu incorporates tastes from coast to coast, but the most-ordered entrée is the Cedar Plank-roasted King Salmon served with seasonal vegetables, on the menu since opening day in 1994. Open daily for dinner.

Tonga Toast, Kona Café, Disney’s Polynesian Resort.

Kids of all ages keep coming back for their favorite “only on vacation” indulgent breakfast treat: deep-fried banana-stuffed sourdough French toast rolled in cinnamon sugar and served with strawberry compote. The Tonga Toast has been a favorite since the Polynesian opened in 1971. Open daily for breakfast.

For all of you Tonga Toast fans out there, here’s a video about this favorite as well as the recipe in case you are having a craving.

Tonga Toast Recipe – Serves 4

Sugar-Cinnamon Ingredients:

3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Batter Ingredients:

4 large eggs
1 1/3 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1 tablespoon granulated sugar

Tonga Toast Ingredients:

1 quart canola oil, for frying
1 loaf sourdough bread (uncut, 12 inches long)
2 large bananas, peeled

Cinnamon-Sugar Preparation:
  • Mix sugar and cinnamon in medium bowl (large enough to roll toast) with a fork until thoroughly blended. Set aside.
Batter Preparation:
  • Whip eggs in medium bowl (large enough to dip toast) until well beaten.
  • Add milk, cinnamon, and sugar.
  • Mix well and set aside.
Tonga Toast Preparation:
  • Preheat oil to 350 degrees F in a large pot or a deep fryer. (If using a large pot, use a candy thermometer to make certain the oil does not get any hotter or it will burn.)
  • Slice the bread into four three-inch-thick slices.
  • Cut each banana in half crosswise, then each piece lengthwise.
  • Place a bread slice flat on the counter and tear out just enough from the middle (do not tear all the way through) to stuff half a banana into; repeat with each bread slice.
  • Dip stuffed bread into batter, covering both sides, allowing excess batter to drip off bread and place carefully into hot oil.
  • Cook 4-5 minutes until golden brown. If needed, turn toast over after 2 minutes and cook for another 2 minutes on other side. Remove and drain excess oil.
  • Roll toast in cinnamon-sugar. Repeat for each piece of toast.

Heading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources:

Have you tried any of these dishes before? Do you have a favorite?
Please leave a comment!

Feb 12 2015

What’s On The Agenda At The 2015 Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

It happens to me every year. Once Valentine’s Day arrives, I get a bad case of spring fever. I’m ready for the snow to stop falling and for the flowers to begin blooming. Unfortunately, where I live in Colorado, we still have a few months of winter left no matter what the calendar says. Lucky for me, I will soon be escaping the cold and traveling to Disney World to enjoy some warm sun and gorgeous scenery at the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival. As I eagerly count down the days until my vacation, I’ve been enjoying all of the information and photos that Disney has been releasing about the upcoming event. In case you missed it, here’s everything that we know so far (photos courtesy of Disney):

The Basics

Epcot Flower & Garden FestivalThe 2015 Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival will be held for 75 days from March 4 through May 17. This year’s theme is “Fresh Epcot” and once again this springtime event will feature beautiful blooms, exciting entertainment, and loads of delicious drinks and dishes. A few of the highlights are:

  • Disney themed topiaries
  • Magical gardens and exhibits
  • Garden Rocks Concert Series
  • Fun festival themed merchandise
  • Entertainment for the kids
  • Festival Event Center offering hands-on demonstrations
  • Outdoor Kitchens with delicious drinks and dishes

Disney Themed Topiaries

This year there will be over a dozen incredibly designed topiaries to view. Here’s what is planned:

  • Anna and Elsa located at World Showcase Plaza.
  • Goofy About Spring featuring Goofy, Chip ‘n Dale, and friends located near the main entrance.
  • Miss Piggy & Tour de Fleurs Garden located at the Italy Pavilion.
  • Spring is in the Air featuring butterfly topiaries located behind Spaceship Earth.
  • Disney-Pixar Buzz Lightyear located near Mission: SPACE.
  • The Living Desert Road Rally Play Area featuring Mater and Lightning McQueen located near Test Track.
  • Fantasia located at Future World West.
  • Phineas and Ferb located at the Odyssey Bridge.
  • Farmer Mickey and Minnie located between Future World and World Showcase.
  • Bambi and Friends featuring Bambi, Flower, and Thumper located at the Canada Pavilion.
  • Aurora and Prince Phillip located between the International Gateway and France Pavilion.
  • Beauty and the Beast located at the France Pavilion.
  • Disney-Pixar Woody located at the American Adventure.
  • Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs located at the Germany Pavilion.
  • Lady and the Tramp located at the Italy Pavilion.
  • The Lion King featuring Mufasa, Pumbaa, Rafiki, Sarabi, Simba, and Timon located at The Outpost between the Germany and China Pavilions.
  • Cinderella and Prince Charming located at the France Pavilion.
  • Year of the Ram located at the China Pavilion.
  • Troll located at the Norway Pavilion.

Magical Gardens and Exhibits

Throughout Future World and World Showcase, you will find many magnificent gardens and engaging interactive exhibits. Here are a few of the dozens of gardens that there will be to enjoy:

  • Illuminated Gardens – Select topiaries and festival play areas will be lit for even more after dark fun.
  • Butterflies on the Go – Learn about a butterfly’s life cycle and journey.
  • Mike & Sulley’s Monstrous Garden – A fun Monsters University themed play area to explore.
  • Health Garden – A unique garden near the Land pavilion in Future World will display ancient medicinal plants.

Garden Rocks Concert Series

This year, eleven bands will appear in the Garden Rocks Concert Series. Performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30pm, 6:45pm, and 8:00pm every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. These concerts are included with your Epcot admission. Here’s the current lineup (subject to change without notice):

  • March 6 – 8: Gin Blossoms
  • March 13 – 15: Pablo Cruise
  • March 20 – 22: En Vogue
  • March 27 – 29: Starship
  • April 3 – 5: The Orchestra starring former members of ELO
  • April 10 – 12: Village People
  • April 17 – 19: Jon Secada
  • April 24 – 26: The Guess Who
  • May 1 – 3: Taylor Dayne
  • May 8 – 10: Little River Band
  • May 15 – 17: Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone

Festival Themed Merchandise

This year you will find a huge variety of festival themed merchandise including clothing, accessories, kitchenware, and more. These items will be available at the Festival Center (open Fridays through Sundays) as well as select merchandise locations throughout Epcot.

Entertainment For Kids

Epcot Flower & Garden FestivalThere will be plenty available to keep the kiddos entertained during the festival. There are two play areas – Mike & Sulley’s Monstrous Garden and Cactus Road Rally Garden with Mater and Lightning McQueen – both of which are illuminated at night for even more fun. The butterfly garden returns this year and is always a big hit with the younger set. Plus Disney has created a fun interactive scavenger hunt for kids to follow and discover topiaries of their favorite characters.Epcot Flower & Garden Festival

Festival Event Center

The Festival Event Center will be open every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday throughout the event to host complimentary demonstrations from gardening and horticulture specialists.

Outdoor Kitchens

The Flower & Garden Festival also includes eleven outdoor kitchens very much like what you see at the Food & Wine Festival in the fall. This year’s kitchens include Botanas Botanico,  Urban Farm Eats, Pineapple Promenade, Fleur de Lys, Taste of Marrakesh, Hanami, The Smokehouse, Primavera Kitchen, Lotus House, Jardin de Fiestas, and Florida Fresh. Be sure to pick up a Garden Passport and get stamped at your stops along the way. Passports will be available at the Festival Event Center, all Outdoor Kitchens, plus select merchandise locations. Disney has just released the full menus:

Botanas Botanico
  • Cachapa con Queso
  • Seafood Ceviche with Shrimp, Scallops and Grouper
  • White Corn Arepa
  • Coconut Tres Leches
  • Polar Beer
  • La Tizana
  • Monte Paschoal Reserve Tannat
  • Monte Paschoal Natural Brut White Sparkling Wine
Urban Farm Eats
  • Quinoa Vegetable Naanwich with Arugula Pesto & Oven-Dried Tomatoes
  • Kale Salad with Dried Cherries, Almonds and Goat Cheese
  • Ghost Pepper-Dusted Tilapia with Winter Melon Slaw
  • Urban Mary
  • Cucumber Lemon Spa Water
  • Hess Shirtail Creek Vineyard, Chardonnay
  • King Estate Acrobat Pinot Noir
  • Crispin Blackberry Pear Cider
Pineapple Promenade
  • Spicy Hot Dog with Pineapple Chutney and Sriracha Mayo
  • Pineapple Soft Serve
  • Pineapple Soft Serve with Sammy’s Beach Bar Red Head Macadamia Nut Flavored Rum
  • Pineapple Soft Serve with Parrot Bay Coconut Rum
  • Frozen Desert Violet Lemonade
  • Ace Pineapple Hard Cider
  • Sparkling Pineapple Wine
  • Berry Tea Cocktail with Twinings Cold-Brewed Mixed Berry Tea
Fleur de Lys
  • Macaron Guimauve à la Fraise (Strawberry Marshmallow Macaron)
  • Confit de Canard (Pulled Duck Confit) with Garlic and Parsley Potatoes
  • Gnocchi Parisien à la Provençal (Parisian Style Dumpling with Vegetables and Mushrooms)
  • Ice Pop Peach Grand Marnier Cocktail
  • La Vie en Rose St-Germain Vodka Slush
  • Kir Imperial with Sparkling Wine and Chambord Liquor
  • Beer Kronenbourg Blanc 1664
Taste of Marrakesh
  • Vegetarian Falafel Pocket with Cucumber Tomato Salad & Tahini Sauce
  • Harissa Chicken Kebab with Couscous Salad
  • Pistachio Baklava
  • Mint Iced Tea
  • White Sangria
  • Guerrouane Red
  • Desert Rose — Sparkling Wine with Pomegranate Liqueur
Hanami
  • Frushi (fresh pineapple, strawberry and melon rolled with raspberry coconut rice, sprinkled with toasted coconut and whipped cream)
  • Teriyaki Curry Bun
  • Salmon Sushi
  • Kirin Draft Beer
  • Yuzu Plum Wine Slush
  • Strawberry Nigori
  • Karatamba Sake
The Smokehouse
  • Beef Brisket Burnt Ends Hash with White Cheddar Fondue & Pickled Jalapeños
  • Pulled Pig Slider with Cole Slaw
  • Smoked Debreziner Sausage
  • Piggylicious Bacon Cupcake
  • Billy’s Chilies
  • Floridian Hefeweizen
  • Category 3 IPA
  • Maple Bacon Stout
  • Beer Flight
  • The Original Rib Shack Red Wine
  • Frozen Lemonade (with or without Palm Ridge Reserve Whiskey)
  • R.C. Sweet Tea made with Twinings Cold-Brewed English Classic Tea
Primavera Kitchen
  • Pinwheel of Mozzarella, Prosciutto, Ciabatta Bread
  • Three Cheese Manicotti
  • Lemon Panna Cotta
  • Placido Pinot Grigio
  • Placido Chianti
  • Bosco del Merlo Prosecco
  • Corbinello
  • White Peach Bellini
  • Strawberry Rossini
  • Frozen Italian primavera
  • Moretti Lager
  • Moretti La Rossa
Lotus House
  • Beijing Candied Strawberries
  • Kung Pao Chicken Bun
  • Vegetable Spring Roll
  • Oolong Peach Bubble Tea
  • Kung Fu Punch
  • South Sea Storm
  • Plum Wine
  • Tsing-Tao Beer
  • Honey Mango Wine Cooler
Jardin de Fiestas
  • Tacos with Achiote-Marinated Pork
  • Vegetarian Quesadilla
  • Flan de Chocolate Abuelita
  • Tecate with Patrón Citrónge
  • White Mexican Sangria
  • Blueberry Pomegranate Margarita
  • Tequila Liqueur Flight
Florida Fresh
  • Watermelon Salad with Pickled Onions, Baby Arugula and Feta Cheese
  • Shrimp and Stone-Ground Grits with Andouille Sausage
  • Florida Blueberry and Lemon Curd Tart
  • Watermelon Passion Fruit Slush
  • Key Lime Sparkling Wine
  • Blonde Ale
  • Channel Marker Red Ale
  • Feast of Flowers Farmhouse Ale (Festival Exclusive)
  • Jai Alai
  • Beer Flight

Epcot Flower & Garden Festival Schedule

Weekend 1: March 6 – 8, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: Gin Blossoms
Spring into Spring Weekend 2: March 13 – 17, 2015 (extended by two days)
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: Pablo Cruise
Extra Spring into Spring Experiences March 16 – 17, 2015
  • St. Patrick’s Day Celebration at the American Adventure
Weekend 3: March 20 – 22, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Meet specialists from Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: En Vogue
Art in the Garden Weekend 4: March 27 – 29, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: STARSHIP featuring Mickey Thomas
Extra Art in the Garden Experiences
  • From 11:00am to 7:00pm, see nature through the eyes of “Plein Air” artists, along with one-of-a-kind works of art in Guest Artist booths—located all throughout World Showcase.
Weekend 5: April 3 – 5, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: The Orchestra
Weekend 6: April 10 – 12, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: The Village People
Earth Day Weekend 7: April 17 – 22, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: John Seceda
Extra Earth Day Weekend Experiences
  • Meet specialists from Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park: April 17 – 19, 2015
  • Hear about conservation efforts to protect coral reefs, sea turtles, sharks and more at The Seas with Nemo & Friends: April 22, 2015
  • See the grand reveal of a sand sculpture, based on the new Disneynature film Monkey Kingdom: April 22, 2015
Florida Fresh Weekend 8: April 24 – 26, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: The Guess Who
Extra Florida Fresh Weekend Experiences
  • From 10:00am to 5:00pm, head for the Festival Center and discover why Florida is one of the top agriculture producing states in the nation.
Weekend 9: May 1 – 3, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • See a stunning display of hibiscus in a wide array of colors at the Hibiscus Show
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: Taylor Dane
Weekend 10: May 8 – 10, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: Little River Band
Weekend 11: May 15 – 17, 2015
Festival Center Events
  • Hands-on presentations on the Greenhouse Stage: 11:00am and 2:00pm
  • Demonstrations on the Fresh Epcot Stage: 12:00pm and 3:00pm
Concert Series
  • Musical Act: Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone

Need help planning your time in Epcot?

Be sure to check out these resources to make the most of your visit to Epcot:

Heading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Have you attended the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival before?
What did you like the most? Are you going this year? Please leave a comment!

Happy Early Spring!

Feb 11 2015

The Latest On The New Disney Springs Restaurants

Disney Springs

So many changes are happening during the transformation of Downtown Disney to Disney Springs. New parking garages and roads are being built, many new shops are appearing, and of course several new restaurants are opening soon. In case you haven’t heard, here’s the latest from Disney about the three new dining options that are slated to open later this year. (all photos courtesy of Disney)

BOATHOUSE

BoathouseOpening Spring 2015 as one of the new venues in The Landing at Disney Springs – a re-imagined and exciting district of entertainment, dining and shopping — The BOATHOUSE will be an upscale, waterfront dining experience featuring spectacular floating artwork: dream boats from the 30’s, 40’s & 50’s.

The incredible culinary experience of The BOATHOUSE will be showcased in an expansive restaurant with three distinctive bars including The Captain’s Raw Bar, The Admiral’s Club Bar and The Dock Bar, which is built over the water. Other spectacular nautically-themed rooms include The Runabout, Twin Transoms, and The Lake House. There will also be two private dining rooms for special events, conventions and presentations: The Regatta and The Trophy Room. The BOATHOUSE restaurant will be managed by internationally renowned and award-winning Gibsons Restaurant Group, celebrated for exceptional food and extraordinary service (recently named Best Steak House in Chicago). Guests will enjoy a gourmet menu served daily until 2 a.m. featuring steaks, chops, fresh seafood and a raw bar.

The BOATHOUSE restaurant will immerse guests both on land and on water with live music and romantic Captain’s guided tours aboard The Venezia, a beautifully crafted 40-foot wooden Italian Water Taxi featuring champagne toasts and chocolate-covered strawberries. There also will be the exhilaration of guided Amphicar rides that launch from land, entering the water with a splash, taking guests on a 20-minute tour of the landmarks of Disney Springs.

The Harbor Master will orchestrate daily flag ceremonies, accompanied by a lively musical performance of beloved bugle songs, performed aboard a classic 1800’s antique steam boat. Authentic nautical items, custom engraved paddles, distinctive lake-themed merchandise, and other unique items “Made on Earth™” will be available at The Ship’s Store, adjacent to The BOATHOUSE restaurant.

“Combining dining with interactive entertainment, The BOATHOUSE helps bring to life our vision of Disney Springs as a welcoming place for guests of all ages to enjoy with their friends and family amid the charm of a waterfront town center,” said George A. Kalogridis, president, Walt Disney World Resort. “We are very excited that The BOATHOUSE is joining the Walt Disney World family at Disney Springs,” said creator Steven Schussler. “We are proud to bring the culinary expertise and impeccable service of Gibsons Restaurant Group to The BOATHOUSE. The outstanding cuisine, the excitement of Amphicars, the Italian Water Taxi, and live music will make The BOATHOUSE a must-see destination for Walt Disney World guests from all around the world. Walt Disney Imagineering has created a wonderful, interactive, culinary and entertainment experience at Disney Springs. We are proud to be part of this magical experience.”

Morimoto Asia

MorimotoChef Masaharu Morimoto is teaming up with Patina Restaurant Group to open Morimoto Asia as Walt Disney World Resort brings to life Disney Springs, an entertainment-dining-retail district re-imagined from Downtown Disney. To open in summer 2015 at The Landing, in the heart of Disney Springs, Morimoto Asia is the Japanese master chef’s first pan-Asian dining experience.

Morimoto Asia’s extraordinary, 36-foot tall, two-story layout includes a vast range of areas to explore including open terraces, grand hall, private rooms, long bar, cocktail lounge, waterside seating and more. The restaurant is being designed by STUDIO V Architecture.

“We are delighted to work with Morimoto to create this one of a kind restaurant, which will be a spectacular dining destination at the new Disney Springs,” said Nick Valenti, restaurateur and CEO of Patina Restaurant Group.

“I’m very excited to bring this new concept to Disney, something I’ve always dreamed of,” said Chef Morimoto. “It’s a wonderful chance to share some of my favorite foods from across the Asian continent.”

Morimoto Asia’s culinary elements will provide flavors from across Asia, while exhibition kitchens will showcase the continent’s traditions. Included among them are street-food stalls, Peking duck carving and dim sum. Morimoto’s inspiration and perspective will create an unmatched dining experience in this richly layered setting.

“We’re thrilled to bring Chef Morimoto’s renowned culinary style to Disney Springs as we expand the range of dining experiences for our resort guests as well as local Florida residents,” said George A. Kalogridis, president, Walt Disney World Resort.

STK Orlando

STK OrlandoThe ONE Group Hospitality, Inc. (“The ONE Group”) (OTCQB:STKS), known for developing upscale, high-energy restaurants, today announced plans to open a STK in Disney Springs at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. STK Orlando is expected to open in The Landing at Disney Springs in 2015, with the full completion of Disney Springs expected in 2016.

The new STK will be located within the waterfront setting of The Landing at Disney Springs, a completely re-imagined shopping, dining and entertainment complex that will double the number of shops and restaurants currently found at Downtown Disney. The Landing is the first phase of Disney Springs and will be home to unique and memorable dining experiences such as STK, Morimoto Asia and The BOATHOUSE, plus a number of still-to-be-announced innovative restaurants and boutique shops.

STK’s unique ambiance blends the elements of a modern steakhouse with a sleek lounge, including a DJ, emphasizing a social, fun environment. At approximately 14,000 square feet, the Orlando outpost will be one of the largest STK locations. STK Orlando will have two dining floors—including a main level and the only rooftop dining venue in Disney Springs.

“We are thrilled to join the Disney Springs family with the launch of STK Orlando,” said Jonathan Segal, CEO of The ONE Group. “The combination of an innovative menu and high-energy atmosphere has driven the success of STK, and we believe it will be an ideal addition to Disney Springs, and will help further cement its status as a place for friends and family to gather for fine dining and entertainment.”

Segal added, “Our entrance into the Orlando market represents another example of our continued growth strategy. We remain on track with our expansion plans for 2015 and hope to continue to partner with exciting world-class brands like Walt Disney Parks and Resorts moving forward.”

“STK Orlando is a welcome new addition to Disney Springs.  With its innovative, high-energy atmosphere, STK is the perfect complement to our growing array of dining, entertainment and shopping offerings,” said George A. Kalogridis, president, Walt Disney World Resort.

In the future guests will be able to make advanced dining reservations for BOATHOUSE, Morimoto Asia, and STK Orlando by visiting DisneyWorld.com.

Need help planning your Disney World vacation?

Be sure to check out these resources to make the most of your time in Disney World:

Heading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Which of these restaurants are you most looking forward to trying?
Please leave a comment!

Feb 10 2015

Starbucks In Disney World

Coffee

For all of you Starbucks fans out there who just can’t start your day without your favorite beverage, you are in luck. Now there are several Starbucks locations throughout the resort. As with all change, the addition of Starbucks to Disney World angered many people. It seems that the dust has finally settled on this battle and guests are now growing accustomed to having this famous chain mixed in with the Disney magic. So the next time you’re in Disney World and are in need of a cup of your favorite brew, you’ll be able to get your fix. Keep in mind that each Starbucks varies in theme, menu offerings, and hours. Here’s a little bit more information about each location:

Downtown Disney Marketplace

Starbucks Marketplace

In the Marketplace section of Downtown Disney, Starbucks is served at a walk up window directly in front of the World of Disney store. This location is generally open from 8am to midnight. For the complete menu, click here.

Downtown Disney West Side

In the West Side section of Downtown Disney, Starbucks has a large restaurant. This location is generally open from 9am to midnight. For the complete menu, click here.

Magic Kingdom

In Magic Kingdom, Starbucks is served at the Main Street Bakery located on Main Street, U.S.A. This location is open during park hours. For the complete menu, click here.

Epcot

In Epcot, Starbucks is served at Fountain View located by the World Fellowship Fountain (aka Fountain of Nations). This location is open during park hours. For the complete menu, click here.

Hollywood Studios

In Hollywood Studios, Starbucks is served at The Trolley Car Café located on Hollywood Boulevard. This location is open during park hours. The Trolley Car Café just opened last week, so be sure to check back soon for the complete menu.

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom Starbucks

Coming this summer to Animal Kingdom, another Starbucks location will be opening in the place of the Creature Comforts shop. Look for this spot to open mid-June 2015.

Need help planning your Disney World vacation?

Be sure to check out these resources to make the most of your time in Disney World:

Heading to Disney World soon?

If you are planning a vacation to Disney World, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save money:

Do you like Starbucks? How do you feel about it being in Disney World?
Please leave a comment!