Tag Archives: Dining

Feb 8 2019

First Look At Jaleo Coming To Disney Springs In 2019

Hey fans of tapas style dining and drinks, if you’re heading to Walt Disney World in 2019, you have plenty to be excited about. With several new restaurants already open at Disney Springs, get ready to get your fix of savory shareable Spanish small plates, sangria and more coming in 2019 at Jaleo. Here’s a first look:

José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup, in collaboration with renowned Spanish design firm Capella Garcia Arquitectura, recently revealed details of the striking design of the beloved Jaleo brand’s newest location at Disney Springs. Opening this winter, the 22 thousand square foot restaurant will be Andrés’ largest to date and will bring the spirit and flavors of Spain to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Based on the colorful iconography of Spain, the architectural form of the building is inspired by an artichoke, a vegetable native to José’s homeland. The artichoke structure opens up, inviting guests to enter and experience the very best of Spanish cuisine. The petals themselves form pergolas, which extend toward the outdoors. The freestanding, two-story building lacks solid walls and is completely open to the outside, with large windows offering views of the lake while protecting diners from the sun. “There are no cubic forms, no opaque walls, no straight lines: here reigns a plant-like organic structure with its dynamic forms. An avant-garde, expressionist and welcoming architecture,” remarks Juli Capella, principal at Capella Garcia Arquitectura, on Jaleo’s design.

The interior features a double height central courtyard that visually connects the restaurant’s two floors. The idea of Jaleo, the Spanish word for “revelry,” inspires the large, family-style gathering space, inviting guests to share tapas and sangria, gather with family at the foosball tables, or enjoy the more elegant central seating for paellas and grilled meats, anchored by the restaurant’s open kitchen and wood fire grill. Private dining options include two terraces, one overlooking the Disney Springs promenade and another overlooking the lake.

Typical Spanish colors of citrus, namely orange and lemon, offer a welcoming ambience alongside predominant touches of wood and ceramic materials. Stunning artwork includes the “Suit of Lights,” an iconic photo of a bullfighter’s suit from Spanish photographer Rafael Vargas, as well a collage of San Sebastian’s popular Concha beach by photographer Ciuco Gutiérrez, bringing the Spanish landscape closer to Walt Disney World Resort.

Occupying the front-corner of Jaleo and overlooking the main promenade of Disney Springs will be a quick-service concept serving Spanish street-food-inspired sandwiches and salads. The design of the casual restaurant features natural materials and a luminous, open feel, inviting visitors into the friendly space, which is centered around a large mural from Marc Jesús, a famous painter from Menorca. With dynamic visual elements drawn from the culinary delights and landscapes of Spain, Andrés and Capella aim to surround visitors in the culture of their native country and all its creativity.

501 WaysHeading 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 time and money:

Will Jaleo be on your list of restaurants to try?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Oct 17 2018

First Look At City Works Eatery & Pour House Coming To Disney Springs

Hey sports fans and pub food lovers, if you’re heading to Walt Disney World next summer, you have plenty to be excited about. With several new restaurants already open at Disney Springs, get ready to get your fix of delicious beers, burgers and more coming in 2019 to the City Works Eatery & Pour House. Here’s a first look:

Bottleneck Management proudly announces the addition of City Works to Disney Springs in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, in the summer of 2019. The lively eatery and pour house style restaurant, currently found in seven locations across the country, offers a massive draft selection of local, regional, and global craft brews with a constantly rotating draft list, complemented by classic American cuisine with chef-driven twists.

The 8,632 square foot restaurant at Disney Springs will offer a retail space, expansive seating, plenty of high-definition TVs – including a 165-inch screen – and a 1,767 square foot patio. The space will also exhibit three full-service bars, two of which allow for covered, open air dining along the patio.

City Works will be located in the Disney Springs West Side. An independent entrance and exit to the promenade will make it convenient for guests to stop in for a bite, watch a game or just to grab a beer to enjoy while they walk throughout Disney Springs. City Works will be the go-to spot for sports fans looking to enjoy craft beers, a delicious menu and a state-of-the-art, game-viewing experience.

501 WaysHeading 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 time and money:

Will City Works be on your list of restaurants to try?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Candlelight Processional
Oct 10 2018

Epcot’s 2018 Candlelight Processional Dining Packages Now On Sale

The Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World, with the joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and glorious mass choir. Candlelight performances take place at 5:00pm, 6:45pm and 8:15pm at the America Gardens Theatre in Epcot from November 22 through December 30, 2018.

Narrators

Candlelight ProcessionalNovember 22 – 23: Chita Rivera
November 24 – 25: Helen Hunt
November 26 – 27: Alfonso Ribeiro
November 28 – December 2: TBD
December 3 – 6: Neil Patrick Harris
December 7 – 9: Whoopi Goldberg
December 10 – 12: Bart Millard
December 13 – 14: Blair Underwood
December 15 – 17: Gary Sinise
December 18 – 20: Pat Sajak
December 21 – 23: Auli’i Cravalho
December 24 – 25: Edward James Olmos
December 26 – 27: Jodi Benson
December 28 – 30: Cal Ripken Jr.

Please note that narrators are subject to change without notice.

Candlelight Dining Packages

Candlelight ProcessionalGuests may purchase Candlelight Dining Packages to reserve a seat at the Candlelight Processional. These packages include a delicious meal and a guaranteed seat for one of the Candlelight Processional performances. There are breakfast, lunch, and dinner packages available. Breakfast starts at $38 for adults and $22 for children, lunch and dinner starts at $50 for adults and $15.50 for children. Each meal includes an appetizer, entrée, dessert and non-alcoholic beverage (or buffet depending on the location selected). Prices do not include tax, gratuity, or the required park admission. Participating restaurants include Akershus Royal Banquet, Ale & Compass, Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room, Coral Reef Restaurant, Biergarten Restaurant, The Garden Grill Restaurant , Nine Dragons Restaurant, Restaurant Marrakesh, Spice Road Table, San Angel Inn Restaurante, Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria, Les Chefs de France, Tokyo Dining, Teppan Edo, Tutto Italia Ristorante, Trattoria al Forno, and La Hacienda de San Angel. Guests may call 407-WDW-DINE for reservations or book online by clicking here. Hurry – Availability is limited!

Heading to Disney World for the holidays?

501 WaysIf you are planning a vacation to Disney World during the holiday season, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you attended the Candlelight Processional before? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Oct 3 2018

Fall Into Magic At Walt Disney World In 2018

If you are looking for some place to take a fantastic fall vacation, look no further than Walt Disney World. With so much for the entire family to enjoy, there’s no better time to go than now! Here’s everything you need to know to experience a fun-filled time with your friends and family at Walt Disney World this fall courtesy of Disney:

Tastes, toys, treats and more are all on the menu this fall at Walt Disney World Resort. From culinary creations to sporting events to special parties, there are many different ways to fall into magic during the cool-down season, both in the theme parks and all across the resort.

23rd Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Offers New Tastes

The aromas and flavors of more than 30 global food and beverage marketplaces, plus a full menu of new offerings such as “Sunday Brunch with the Chef,” welcome guests during the 23rd Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, now through November 12. One of America’s top food festivals since 1996, the 75-day Epcot dine-around extravaganza will surprise guests with new and inspiring sips and bites throughout the park’s World Showcase and several Future World venues. Highlights include:

  • The grandest of the festival’s don’t-miss tasting events, Party for the Senses in World ShowPlace, will welcome acclaimed chefs and vintners October 6, 13, 20 and November 10. They will showcase creative bites and palate-pleasing sips with sensational live entertainment.
  • “Eat to the Beat” concerts – 225 in all – will rev up the America Gardens Theatre stage three times nightly with new musical acts including Vertical Horizon, 98 Degrees, Sheila E. and others. Selections span a broad range of eras and genres from rock and pop to rhythm and blues.
  • “Mix It, Make It, Celebrate It!” hands-on workshops Wednesdays and Thursdays provide new opportunities for guests to interact with visiting chefs, mixologists and other pros.

Throughout the festival, guests will find something for everyone in the family:

  • A Ratatouille-inspired adventure is back as Chef Remy encourages families to play together during Remy’s Ratatouille Hid ‘n’ Squeak scavenger hunt.
  • On Friday and Saturday evenings, enjoy an interactive Character Dance Party.
  • In the new Junior Chef Kitchen, children become the chefs and eat what they make in this complimentary experience each Sunday in the Festival Center.

Halloween PartyMickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

Let’s boo this! There are even more nights to celebrate the spooky season this year during Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. This special-ticket event runs select nights now through October 31 at Magic Kingdom Park – the earliest in the calendar year it’s ever started. It’s also the 25th anniversary of Walt Disney Pictures’ “Hocus Pocus,” so what better way to celebrate the film than the spellbinding Hocus Pocus Villain Spectacular at Cinderella Castle, where the Sanderson Sisters take “stage fright” to another level.

Guests should keep their eyes open for dancing ghosts, the Headless Horseman, plus Mickey Mouse, Peter Pan and many more beloved Disney Characters in the Mickey’s “Boo-To-You” Halloween Parade. There will also be plenty of sweets for all trick-or-treaters around the park, including allergy-friendly options. And each night during the party, the skies above an eerily lit Cinderella Castle come alive during Happy HalloWishes, a magical fireworks extravaganza that definitely goes bump in the night!

Advance tickets start at $75 for adults and $70 for ages 3-9 (plus tax). For more information, please click here.

New Toy Story Land: A Perfect Place for Fall Fun

Where better to spend a beautiful fall day than playing in Andy’s backyard, the young toy owner from Pixar Animation Studios’ Toy Storyfilms. In this extraordinary new land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests are “honorary toys” surrounded by Andy’s favorites – Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie and many more.

Across 11 fun-filled acres, guests can hop on the all-new Slinky Dog Dash for a family-friendly roller coaster ride, take a spin and enjoy some interstellar beats on Alien Swirling Saucers and go for the high score playing midway games inside the 4D world of Toy Story Mania! When toys get hungry, there’s no better place to grab a bite than Woody’s Lunch Box, a walk-up window featuring a bevy of nostalgic delights – from a grilled three-cheese sandwich to a Lunch Box Tart and much more.

Toy Story Land also offers a collection of new merchandise items, allowing guests to take their special memories home with them. Among the many highlights: a Buzz Lightyear Bubble Blower and a Slinky Dog headband.

Disney Junior Dance Party Shimmies into Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Later in fall, the new Disney Junior Dance Party premieres at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This live performance will feature high-energy music, a vibrant party atmosphere, special effects and characters from popular Disney Junior TV shows. Guests are invited to join all the fun with the stars of “Mickey and the Roadster Racers,” “Doc McStuffins,” “The Lion Guard” and the newest hit series, “Vampirina.”

Two New Restaurants, Reimagined World of Disney Opening at Disney Springs

  • James Beard Award-winning Chef José Andrés – one of “The 100 Most Influential People of 2018” according to Time.com – will open a new location of his popular Jaleo this fall. It will offer an extensive menu of tapas that reflects the rich regional diversity of traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine. Designed by renowned Spanish designer Juli Capella, the new multi-level restaurant will feature breathtaking exterior architecture and a vibrant, theatrical décor representing the colorful, dynamic culture of Spain. Andrés’ Disney Springs venue will be his largest and most ambitious location to date.
  • A new restaurant by James Beard Award-winning Chef Wolfgang Puck will also open this fall. Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill will modernize the traditional “bar and grill” concept in a setting inspired by traditional farmhouses – with a touch of elegance. The restaurant will capture the essence of laid-back California dining made popular by Puck’s Spago, his flagship restaurant in Los Angeles.
  • In late fall, Disney Springs will reveal the newly reimagined World of Disney store, where guests will discover the products they love from Disney Parks in a dynamic and distinctly Disney environment. The flagship store remains open throughout the enhancement process.

501 WaysHeading 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 time and money:

Will you be visiting Walt Disney World during the fall?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!

Jun 14 2018

2018 Epcot International Food And Wine Signature Dining Events Now On Sale

For all of you “foodies” out there, reservations for the Epcot Signature Dining Events offered as a part of this year’s Epcot International Food & Wine Festival are now available. Book now – remember space is limited!

Mexican Tequila Lunch – La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico Pavilion

Savor south-of-the-border cuisine paired with the fiery taste of tequila!

As you indulge in the authentic aromas and gourmet ingredients of a 4-course Mexican meal, you’re invited to celebrate your senses as you sample from a diverse range of tequila and mezcal selections—each carefully chosen to complement the spices found in these unique, regionally themed dishes. It’s an unforgettable epicurean adventure—one that explains the history of agave spirits and the subtle nuances found this series. Get ready to eat, drink… and merrily sing “Olé!”

Where: La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico at Epcot®

Dates: August: 30, 31
September: 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
October: 4, 5, 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 19, 24, 25, 26, 31
November: 1, 2, 7, 8, 9

Time: 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm

Price: $85.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Italian Food, Wine Vs. Beer Pairing at Via Napoli – Via Napoli, Italy Pavilion

Discover authentic Italian dishes with an original twist, each expertly prepared and served with regional beverages.

Guests will eat, stay and love an amazing menu filled with robust flavors adored the world over. Sit down to a 5-course gourmet meal paired with the chef’s own impeccable selection of Italian wines and craft beer—all chosen to complement his/her original recipes. One taste is all it takes to see why Italian cuisine warms the heart and satisfies the palate. Mangiare!

Where: Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria, Italy at Epcot®

Dates: September: 25, 27
October: 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
November: 1, 6, 8

Time: 1:30PM – 4:15PM

Price: $88.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Italian Regional Food & Wine Pairing Luncheon – Tutto Gusto, Italy Pavilion

Gather in a rustic wine cellar as Italy’s finest food and drink are paired in perfect harmony.

Amidst the Tuscan-style stone walls, luncheon Guests are in for the ultimate dining experience. Savor a spectacular 5-course meal of epicurean delights—all served with select wines chosen for their distinct yet complementary flavors. Capturing the true essence of the country’s rich culture, your chef promises to prepare an authentic Italian meal that’s pure perfezione.

Where: Tutto Gusto at Tutto Italia Ristorante, Italyat Epcot®

Dates: September: 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26
October: 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31
November: 5, 7

Time: 12:00PM – 2:30PM

Price: $99.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Parisian Breakfast – Chefs de France, France Pavilion

Start the day with fabulous fresh-baked goodness, from baguettes and croissants to patisserie-perfect pain au chocolat.

Wake up and smell the petit déjeuner! Guests are invited to sip cappuccino, hot chocolate or amazing French sparkling mimosas all while indulging in an authentic Parisian breakfast buffet that’s deliciously decadent. Be sure to slather a bit of confiture on your baguette for a traditional tartine. With buttery croissants, pastries and more, your first meal of the day will never be the same!

Where: Chefs de France

Dates: September: 22, 29
October: 6, 13, 20, 27
November: 3, 10

Time: 9:15AM – 10:30AM

Price: $40.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

French Family Meal Traditions – Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion

From hors d’oeuvres to entrées, experience authentic French fare just like Maman used to make.

There’s no place like home—whether it’s Avignon, Lyon or Vendôme! As the chefs at Monsieur Paul share their treasured family recipes, Guests will experience a culinary adventure that’s deliciously nostalgic. Each dish is created with traditional Le Creuset cast iron pots for a rustic, family-style meal. Masterfully paired with the perfect wines, these magnifique meals promise to take you on a tasty trip through some of the country’s most famous places.

Where: Monsieur Paul

Dates: October: 5, 7, 12, 14, 19, 21, 26, 28
November: 2, 4, 9, 11

Time: 12:00PM – 3:30PM

Price: $95.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

The Parisian Afternoon, Sandwiches, Macarons and Bubbles! – Monsieur Paul, France Pavilion

C’est merveilleux… indulge in heavenly morsels from Monsieur Paul, the culinary jewel of the France pavilion.

Love is in the fare! From finger sandwiches and savory mignardises to melt-in-your-mouth macarons and an assortment of delicate petit fours, both foodies and Francophiles alike will feel as if they’ve been whisked away to a dreamy bistro along la Rive Gauche. Take a respite from your Epcot adventures to relax, sip unlimited mimosas and nibble our magnifique medley of treats—it’s a Parisian-style afternoon that’s ooo-la-la-luscious!

Where: Monsieur Paul

Dates: September: 29
October: 6, 13, 20, 27
November: 3, 10

Time: 1:30PM – 3:30PM

Price: $55.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

The “Hibachi” Experience: Iron Chef – Teppan Edo, Japan Pavilion

Eat, drink and be amazed while these culinary masters show off some seriously delicious skills.

Watch the spirit of Japanese cuisine come to life! Guests are in for an unforgettable dining experience as the restaurant’s “performing” chefs add a modern twist to traditional cooking techniques. This amazing 5-course culinary adventure features Wagyu beef, seafood and poultry. Prepared communal-style at your table, each dish is served with sake that complement the meal’s exotic flavors. Surrounded by authentic Japanese décor, you’ll feel as if you’re in the Land of the Rising Sun—tanoshimimasu!

Where: Teppan Edo, Nihonbashi Dining Room, at the Japan Pavilion

Dates: October: 1, 15, 29
November: 5

Time: 4:00PM – 6:00PM

Price: $180.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Tokyo Pairing – Tokyo Dining, Japan Pavilion

Sample exquisitely prepared meals that showcase the Land of the Rising Sun’s creative presentation.

Itadakimasu! Amidst a modern setting, Guests will dine on 3 traditional courses perfectly paired with sake and other thirst-quenching libations. The authentic menu exemplifies a seamless fusion of harmony, culture and culinary art—including Wagyu beef, lobster tail, and Blue Fin sushi. From the first bite to the last sip, don’t miss this amazing medley of flavors—each delicious dish is sure to please the most sophisticated palate!

Where: Tokyo Dining, Japan at Epcot®

Dates: October: 4, 11, 18, 25
November: 1, 8

Time: 4:00PM – 6:00PM

Price: $160.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

Mediterranean Food & Wine Pairing – Spice Road Table, Morocco Pavilion

Discover the magic of Mediterranean dining as our gourmet chefs bring an array of zesty recipes to life.

Guests are treated to expertly prepared gourmet cuisine that showcases the unique flavors of Morocco, the Mediterranean and beyond. Paired with the perfect wine, each delicious meat and seafood dish embodies the cultural diversity and spirit of this region—you’ll feel like you’ve been swept away to the shores of an amazing epicurean adventure! This experience will also include a sparkling wine reception prior to the event. This is a four tasting size course.

Where: Spice Road Table, Morocco at Epcot®

Dates: September: 3, 5, 10, 12, 17, 19, 24, 26
October: 1, 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29, 31
November: 5, 7, 12

Time: 1:00PM – 3:00PM

Price: $65.00 per person, plus tax, gratuity included

For more information or to make reservations, please click here or call 407-939-3378.

Heading to Disney World soon?

501 WaysIf you are planning a vacation to Disney World soon, be sure to check out these valuable resources to help you save time and money:

Have you attended a signature dining event? What did you think?
Please leave a comment; I would love to hear from you!