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I know summer isn’t quite over yet and I don’t want to be the one to rush things, but Halloween is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning your costume! It’s never too early. Not sure where to start? Consider me your “Costume Consultant.” I personally think our Disney Princess costumes are quite dazzling. Each gown has been replicated in fine detail, appearing almost identical to those worn by some of Disney’s finest royalty. Don’t be afraid to add a tiara, wand, gloves or other accessories to complete the look. Find something that puts you ‘heads’ or ‘tails’ above the rest. There’s certainly no shortage of ear hats or novelty headwear at Disney Parks. Find the one that suits you the best, and show your true ‘character.’ Kids and kids-at-heart, keep an eye out for one of this year’s hottest costume accessories, Disney Tails. Keep an eye out for ‘tails’ inspired by the Cheshire Cat, Marie, Tigger and Sulley in the coming weeks. As you can see on a recent visit to our Disney Theme Parks Merchandise east coast office, I found fellow Disney Parks Blog author Steven Miller, having a ‘monster’ous good time lurking about in search of new information to share with all of you. If your little crewmates ‘arrggh’ ready to find their costumes and it’s adventure that they seek, some additional choices include Jack Sparrow and the Boney Pirate. For your Space Ranger, Buzz Lightyear. Quick Tip: If you are planning a visit to the Disneyland Resort during the Halloween season or specifically for Mickey’s Halloween Party, be sure to book an appointment for a royal transformation at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or aboard the returning Pirates League. Are you looking for something a little bit more subtle? This year, I think I’m going to take my inspiration from a recent post about DisneyBounding that my friend and fellow Disney Parks Blog Author, Erin Glover shared as part of the Rock Your Disney Side 24-Hour Event. Create a costume and express your love for Disney through fashion. Not only will you create a trendy, new outfit with clothes you can find in your closet of favorites, but you can also subtly resemble your favorite Disney character. So where are the best places to find the perfect kids costumes, accoutrements and accessories at the Disneyland Resort? Halloween Costume stops include: Downtown Disney District – World of Disney StoreDisney California Adventure park –Treasures in ParadiseDisneyland park – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Disney ShowcaseThose of you located nearer to the Walt Disney World Resort, don’t despair. Here are a few locations for you to check out as well. Disney’s Hollywood Studios – In Character – Disney’s Costume ShopDowntown Disney Marketplace – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, World of Disney StoreEpcot – MouseGearMagic Kingdom Park – Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, Emporium, The Pirates LeagueAre you ready to trick or treat? Find the Perfect Look for Halloween at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

In honor of National Sisters Day Tuesday, Walt Disney World Resort invited a group of local girls to meet one of Disney's most popular set of sisters. View the full article

When attractions cast member Alyson Clancy isn't sending guests on adventures in Frontierland or Adventureland, she welcomes new cast members to the Disneyland Resort as a Disney University...From:Disney ParksViews:13126ratingsTime:02:15More inTravel & Events

Kungaloosh, adventurers! Tallahassee Glover, back again. Some of you intrepid explorers have already discovered the wonders of Adventure Trading Company, now open at Disneyland park. We’ve met quite a few brave souls over the past few days, and I’ve just emerged from the jungles of Adventureland with these exclusive interviews with two of them: Skip and Tiki Kiki. “It wasn’t my fault,” Skip insists when asked about the infamous incident on the Jungle Cruise dock, “but it is a funny story. I regret nothing … sometimes you have to pay the price for a really funny story.” And losing his Jungle Cruise Skipper license seems to be a price he was willing to pay. Now Skip roams the edges of the river looking for more hilarity to distract him from his lack of employment. “They’re offering a crash course – get it? – for new Jungle Cruise Skippers …” [Here is where we lost him in a fit of laughter. Seems Skip is pretty good at cracking himself up.] “… I’m going to pass it this time, get my Piranhahaha Juju and my job back!” Best of luck to you, Skip. Those looking to become Jungle Cruise Skippers can inquire at Adventure Trading Company, where they will can pick up The Jungle Handbook for River Navigation. Anyone who is anyone in the Adventureland entertainment business knows Rita Serbano, especially after her big interview in The Bird Call (now available at Adventure Trading Company). But it’s her sister, Tiki Kiki, who is working hard to make a name for herself and rise out of her sister’s shadow. “It takes a real eye for talent, you know,” she told me. “Not just any bird can make it in the Enchanted Tiki Room. You have to be more than a pretty face – or beak.” When asked about her sister’s interview, Tiki Kiki was evasive. “Weren’t we talking about me?” she demanded. We at Dateline Adventureland wish her much success … and recognition. Which of your fellow Adventureland explorers have you met in your expeditions? Tell us your stories in the comments! Dateline Adventureland: Hunting for Laughs with Skip and Birdwatching with Tiki Kiki by Tallahassee Glover: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Hello There! It’s time once again to feature some of your great food finds on our latest edition of Disney Food Pics of the Week! Thanks to all of our readers who post their gorgeous photos on our Flickr page, Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza! Today, we’re taking a look at one of our favorite subsets of snacks. That’s right — we’re talking dips. Dexter’s Dual Dip at T-RexPhotographer: Hilary JW I may have to give the Dexter’s Dual Dip at T-Rex in Downtown Disney another try (provided that those poor, traumatized fishies have found a new home since their tank burst a while back…) This is some fairly impressive looking plastic cheese! Don’t you think? Dexter’s Dual Dip at T-Rex Dipping Sauces at ‘OhanaPhotographer: Melissa Sue Sorrells Galley Ah, the golden days of ‘Ohana dipping sauces when there was a glorious trio. We’re glad you can still get the Peanut and the Sweet and Sour, but we’re holding out hope that the Chimichurri will return someday! Dipping Sauces Make Everything Better at ‘Ohana Spinach and Artichoke Dip at Sci-Fi Dine-InPhotographer: JLovely Don’t you just love Sci-Fi Dine-In? You can never go wrong with Spinach and Artichoke Dip. But dip + so-bad-they’re-funny 50s horror flicks = The Best. I think it’s the Monterey Jack cheese that makes it a must. What do you think? Spinach and Artichoke with Your Campy Movies at Sci-Fi Dine-In Thanks to all of our talented (and hungry!) photographers who keep sharing their fantastic photos with us via our Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza page on Flickr! All images are copyrighted to their photographers. Do not download or re-use without photographer permission. We’d love to see all of your cool shots, too! C’mon — you know you wanna show them off! To join in the fun, just head over to the Disney Food Blog Photo Extravaganza and start sharing. Who knows? Your shot may be the next one we feature! And be sure to check out all of our Disney Food Pics of the Week posts! What’s your favorite Disney dip? Leave a comment and tell us what we should order the next time we’re dining in the ‘World or the ‘Land! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Pics of the Week: Glow Drinks!Disney Food Pics of the Week: Turkey!Disney Food Pics of the Week: A Twist On Bread View the full article

When I think of the most exciting cities in Europe, there is no better pair than London and Paris. Just imagine seeing the historical sites of Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace on a private iconic red double-decker bus, or taking an evening stroll around the City of Light with the Eiffel Tower as your backdrop. With Adventures by Disney, your whole family can experience the marvel of both cities, plus the charm of the English countryside, on one trip! This captivating eight-day, seven-night adventure around England and France will take you deep into the history, art and culture of some of Europe’s most famous landmarks. Enjoy a private walking tour of some of London’s historical sites with your Adventure Guides, taste traditional English fare in the English countryside and walk among the towering blocks of Stonehenge. And your Junior Adventurers will feel like princes and princesses as they explore the royal grounds of Windsor Castle. Then hop aboard a high-speed train that takes you under the English Channel into France. Upon arriving in Paris, you’ll view this extraordinary metropolis as you ride to the top of the 1,063-foot-tall Eiffel Tower. Next, step into the luxury of Chateau de Versailles and bike through the winding path of the Grand Gardens of Versailles. You’ll even be able to tour the illustrious Louvre Museum, home to the famous Mona Lisa, while your Junior Adventurers participate in an interactive scavenger hunt. And, of course, there’s plenty of free time to shop for some Parisian fashion. Ooh-la-la! Explore these two incredible European cities and create magical memories today with Adventures by Disney! See below for more posts about Adventures by Disney: Walking in a Wyoming Winter Wonderland with Adventures by DisneyBidding a Bittersweet ‘Adios’ to Costa Rica With Adventures by DisneyStep Into Your Very Own Fairytale With Adventures by DisneyImmerse Yourself in the Royalty of London and Paris with Adventures by Disney by Danielle Berman: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Food pictures can be SOOO enticing! Here at the Disney Food Blog, we totally get that. We’ve been getting lots of questions about a chocolate dessert featured on the Walt Disney World site. Today, I want to share the recipe AND where you can find it on your next trip. Chocolate Espresso TorteHave you seen this picture while browsing through the Disney World site? Chocolate Espresso Torte in Disney World If so, you may have wondered where you can find it. The chocolate espresso torte is served at the Turf Club restaurant at Saratoga Springs Resort! Since this location serves dinner only, you’ll want to plan your Advance Dining Reservation accordingly. And note that the dessert menu can change at any time! Speaking of, if you’re not able to get it at Turf Club when you visit, you can always make it at home! RecipeHere’s Disney’s Turf Club Chocolate Espresso Torte, courtesy of the Disney Parks Blog Makes one 9-inch torte Torte Ingredients: 1 1/2 sticks butter, softened, plus additional softened butter for greasing pan 3/4 cup sugar, plus additional sugar for dusting pan 12 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped 5 eggs at room temperature, beaten 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 1/2 cup prepared espresso Chocolate Ganache Ingredients: 4 ounces semisweet chocolate 1 stick softened butter Vanilla ice cream, optional Instructions For Torte: Preheat oven to 300º with oven rack in middle position. Wrap a 9-inch springform pan in plastic wrap, then wrap tightly with a layer of heavy-duty foil. Generously butter pan. Dust pan with sugar, tapping out excess. Place prepared pan in a roasting pan; set aside. Combine 3/4 cup sugar and prepared espresso in a small saucepan over medium heat. Heat, stirring, until sugar is dissolved. Set aside to cool for 10 minutes. Place chocolate in a large bowl set over a large saucepan of barely simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water). Stir occasionally until just melted. Add butter by the tablespoonful, stirring until combined. Stir in espresso syrup and vanilla extract. Set aside to cool slightly, 4 to 5 minutes. Gently stir in eggs until combined. Pour batter into prepared springform pan. Pour boiling-hot water into roasting pan until it reaches three-quarters of the way up the of springform pan. Bake until center of torte is almost set, but still wobbles just slightly, about 45 to 50 minutes. Transfer torte to a wire rack to cool completely. Refrigerate, covered, for 8 hours or overnight. Instructions For Ganache: Place chocolate in a medium bowl set over a medium saucepan of simmering water (do not allow bottom of bowl to touch water). Stir occasionally until melted. Set aside to cool slightly, 3 to 4 minutes. Add butter by the tablespoonful, stirring until combined and glossy. Use immediately. To Serve: Run a thin knife along edge of chilled torte, and remove springform pan ring. Set torte on a wire rack set over a sheet pan. Pour ganache over torte, a bit at a time, spreading with a rubber or offset spatula to cover top. Allow excess to drip down sides, if desired. Place torte on a platter or sheet pan lined with parchment paper, and refrigerate until set, approximately 2 hours. Serve with vanilla ice cream, if desired. Have you tried this dessert at the Turf Club? Let us know in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Recipe: Chocolate Crusted Key Lime Tart from Disney World’s Grand Floridian CafeSnack Series: Chocolate Covered Frozen Strawberry Cheesecake at Walt Disney WorldHow to Order a Cake at Walt Disney World View the full article

Next in our Delicious Disney series, Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast from Chef Mark Buan at Surf’s Up! Breakfast with Mickey & Friends at Disney’s PCH Grill in Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel at the Disneyland Resort. Chef calls it French toast, but it’s more like a bread pudding made with rich challah, a traditional Jewish yeast bread sweetened with honey. And is there any more perfect combo than chocolate, peanuts and sweet bananas? It’s perfect for a breakfast buffet, or we’d serve it for dessert with a generous drizzle of warm chocolate sauce. Chocolate, Peanut Butter, Banana French Toast Serves 4 Ingredients 8 thick slices day-old challah bread2 ripe bananas1/4 cup chocolate chips1/2 cup creamy peanut butter6 eggs, lightly beaten3/4 cup low-fat chocolate milk1 teaspoon ground cinnamon1/4 teaspoon saltChocolate syrup and powdered sugar, optionalAssembly Preheat oven to 350ºF. Coat a 9x13x2-inch baking pan with nonstick spray. Set aside.Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and place in a large bowl. Slice bananas into 1/2-inch slices, and add to bowl. Stir in chocolate chips.Combine peanut butter, eggs, chocolate milk, cinnamon, and salt in a blender. Process until smooth.Pour egg mixture over bread mixture. Stir gently until bread cubes have absorbed egg mixture.Pour mixture into prepared baking pan. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until top is golden brown.Before serving, drizzle with chocolate syrup and dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast from Disney’s PCH Grill at Disneyland Resort by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast from Disney’s PCH Grill at Disneyland Resort Next in our Delicious Disney series, Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Banana French Toast from Chef Mark Buan at Surf's Up! Breakfast with Mickey & Friends at Disney's PCH Grill in Disney's...From:Disney ParksViews:27143ratingsTime:01:27More inTravel & Events View the full article

How often do you enjoy a multi-course meal for dinner? On a Disney cruise, you have the chance to every night! Appetizers are just as important to us as our entrees (and desserts!), so today I want to share with you one of my top choices for the first course – smoked salmon carpaccio. Topped with capers, shallots, pink peppercorns and dill honey mustard, believe me, it’s as tasty as it looks! Check out the full recipe below and download our keepsake recipe card here. Enjoy! Smoked Salmon Carpaccio Serves 4 Skill Level: Easy Time: 30 minutes Ingredients 8 oz. smoked salmon2 tbsp. capers1 tbsp. pink peppercorns2 tbsp. shallots (finely chopped)1/3 cup dijon mustard1/4 cup clear honey1 tbsp. picked dill for honey mustard1 tsp. picked dill for garnishDill Honey Mustard Finely slice the fresh dill and mix with the honey and mustard. Chill until time to serve.Assembly Lay the smoked salmon on the plate, slightly overlapped, to create one uniform layer, leaving ½ inch of space between the fish and plate rim.Neatly arrange the finely chopped shallots, capers and pink peppercorns on top of the smoked salmon in an even pattern.Using the tip of a teaspoon, place 8 dots of the dill honey mustard on top of the smoked salmon in an asymmetrical pattern and garnish with the picked dill as per picture. For more summer recipes from Disney Cruise Line, click the links below: Disney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Orange Cilantro Marinated Flank SteakDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Tomato CakeDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Cajun Shrimp SlawDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Guava Glazed Barbecue RibsDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Summer PuddingDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Seafood PaellaSavoring the Flavors of the Mediterranean with Disney Cruise LineDisney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Smoked Salmon Carpaccio by Stephen Walker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

I’m counting down the hours until I can taste my way around the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This annual event returns to Epcot from September 19 through November 10, 2014. I’m already planning on being at the kick-off weekend to celebrate my birthday week (I’m sure I’m not the only one who celebrates her or his birthday all week long). After reading Pam Brandon’s article about new offerings this year, I caught up with the merchandise events team for a sneak preview of festival merchandise. This year, I found two different art programs – “Taste Your Way Around the World” and “Brews Around the World” – that will be featured on a variety of items. Guests should look for several familiar favorites including Chef Duffy the Disney Bear, a coffee mug and apparel items like hats. One of my favorite things is the specially designed food tray that was originally introduced in 2012. This new design includes a place to hold beverages and plenty of space for food. The Disney pin trading team created some cool limited edition pins that are presented on recipe cards. One features Jessica Rabbit with a recipe for Carrot Cake, while the other has Mickey Mouse that explains how to make Cheddar Breakfast Potatoes (now I’m hungry!). Speaking of recipes, we will also carry a new cookbook that my fellow author Pam announced in this Disney Parks Blog story. Finally, I liked this reusable tote bag that contains both merchandise logos. Look for these items and more in the Festival Center, which will be located between Universe of Energy and Mission: SPACE pavilions in Future World. Select items may also be found at merchandise kiosks throughout World Showcase once the festival opens in mid-September. We will not be offering merchandise via our Disney Parks online store this year. I hope to see you at Epcot! For more about the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festive, visit the posts below: Two New Ways to Enjoy Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalReady, Set, Dial! Epcot International Food & Wine Festival Premium Event Reservations Open July 31More Details to Make You Hungry For Fun at 19th Epcot International Food & Wine Festival2014 Eat to the Beat Concert Lineup Announced for Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalSneak Preview of Merchandise for 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

It’s gotta be said… Port Orleans – Riverside has a lot going for it. Learn About: Riverside Mill Food CourtDisney World RestaurantsIt just might be my favorite Disney World Resort – at the very least, it’s in my top three. So it’s entirely possible that my total bias towards all-things-Riverside may be coming into play when I think about the food options. But, c’mon! This is the home of the great River Roost lounge, made all the greater thanks to our friend Yeeha Bob. (Oh, and those unreal Prime Rib Sliders don’t hurt, either. Trust me.) Aaaaand it’s got Boatwright’s, serving up Louisiana favorites like Jambalaya and Chicken and Andouille Gumbo. And last, but not least, is the Riverside Mill Food Court. Riverside Mill Food Court It’s rustic-meets-comfy, and somehow — for a place with huge amounts of seating – manages to feel at least a little bit cozy, with its abundant natural light and mismatched chairs. Riverside Mill Seating Riverside Mill Seating But the best part might be the slowly turning water wheel that you can view from inside. View of water wheel In my head, it looks like this… totally sepia-toned! Water wheel… in sepia! Today we’re here to try a treat I’ve had my eye on for a while now (and I’ve only ever seen it at Riverside Mill). It’s the Cherry Cobbler, coming at you from the Bakery section! Riverside Mill Bakery section The Cherry Cobbler doesn’t pop up on the menu until the evening, typically around 5:00 pm. Bakery Menu at Riverside Mill Food Court I’ve wanted to try it since the first time I saw a huge, bubbling pan-full! Batch of hot Cherry Cobbler What I received was definitely heavy on the cherry, but not so much on the cobbler. Cherry Cobbler That’s unfortunate, because every time I bit into some of the crumbled topping, it was a little pocket of buttery, brown sugar deliciousness. Crumble topping I’m hoping to get back to try it again, to see if I fare better with more topping on another serving. Fortunately, the cherry and glaze base has enough going on to stand pretty well on its own (and I was able to uncover a few more bits of crumble once I dug in). Cherries galore I’m making a pure assumption that it’s just canned filling (and if that is indeed the case, it’s fine by us!), but it’s got more-than-a-hint of cinnamon spice that makes all the cherry taste as great as it smells (I had trouble making it to a table before digging in – it smelled sooo good). Bite of cherry filling If the Cherry Cobbler doesn’t ring your bell, the bakery is still worth a stop for a slice of Cheesecake (topped with fruit or chocolate sauce), or a Magic Cookie Bar (the only other spot you’ll find that bundle of butterscotch-and-coconut greatness is, I believe, Roaring Fork over at Wilderness Lodge). Magic Cookie Bar at Riverside Mill Alas, no beignets here… you’ll need to stroll down the river to French Quarter’s Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory for those. But then again, that’s part of the fun – finding those signature treats that play a part in making every resort unique. And, as they sing in the Riverside Mill, it’s always a fun time “down by the Riverside!” Have you tried the cherry cobbler at Riverside? What is your favorite Disney resort snack? Let us know in the comments below! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney World’s Port Orleans Riverside ResortQuick Look: River Roost at Port Orleans RiversideGuest Review: Boatwright’s Dining Hall at Port Orleans Riverside View the full article

My fellow author Michelle Harker recently gave you a look at Gelatoni, the newest friend for Duffy the Disney Bear at Tokyo Disney Resort. This cool cat joins another friend named ShellieMay who was introduced in Japan a few years ago. During my time as a Disney Parks Blog author, I’ve received a number of requests for ShellieMay merchandise. Today, I’m happy to share that specially designed ShellieMay products will be released at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, in Ko Olina, Hawai‘i, this month. For those unfamiliar with ShellieMay’s story, Minnie Mouse created her as a special friend for Duffy. Ever since August 2011, Mickey Mouse, Duffy and a few of their friends have been spending their vacation time at Aulani, learning more and more about Hawai‘i and Hawaiian culture. Nestled between the mountains and the sparkling ocean waters, Aulani provided Mickey and Duffy the opportunity to forgo their sailor uniforms in favor of aloha shirts and fun surf apparel. With the feeling of ‘ohana abound, Duffy wished his best friend ShellieMay could also experience this Hawaiian paradise … playing on the beautiful white sand beaches, snorkeling in Rainbow Reef, and relaxing in the crystal clear waters of the Waikolohe Stream and pools. In helping make DuffyÊ»s wish come true, we are excited to introduce this new product line. New products coming to Kalepa’s Store in the resort include a 17-inch plush, a costume and a 12-inch dressed plush. Disney artist Susan Foy designed ShellieMay’s new outfits; I love how these new items give a nod to the Aloha Spirit including having a flower behind her right ear. Additional items are planned to arrive September through November, including a pillow plush, apparel, a magnet, pins and more. The three-dimensional ornament is due to arrive in time for the holidays (there will be a similar ornament featuring Duffy the Disney Bear). At this time, the only place to find these specially designed products will be at Aulani. There are no immediate plans to carry ShellieMay merchandise at Disneyland or Walt Disney World Resorts. Unfortunately, these items will not be available via the Disney Parks online store or Merchandise Guest Services. I hope you will join me in saying “Aloha” to ShellieMay! ShellieMay Merchandise Arriving at Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, This Month by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

At 34 years of age, Tisa Daniels of Round Hill, VA, is a wife, a mother of two boys and a runner. Four years ago Daniels returned to the sport to accomplish two things; fight off weight gain as she quit smoking cold turkey and start living a healthy, active lifestyle to be a role model for her oldest son. A couple years later after taking a 15-month break to have her second child, Daniels would again look to running to help battle through postpartum depression. Today, Daniels is running strong as a veteran of several 5K and 10K events. Her current goal is to run the Glass Slipper Challenge at the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend presented by Children’s Miracle Networks Hospitals at Walt Disney World Resort, February 19-22. Running a 10K on Saturday and a half marathon on Sunday will push her body to new limits, but the distance and physical challenge is not all that’s new. This time she is running for a cause- she is running for charity. Daniels is thankful that her kids have never needed the services of a Children’s Miracle Network Hospital, but working as a social worker at a Level 1 Trauma Center she has witnessed first hand the blessing these facilities bring to kids and parents. It is for those kids, and kids of future generations needing a local hospital that she has dedicated these races to raise money for CMN Hospitals. “I am running Disney as a charity run to help all the families I have seen though the years but couldn’t help,” Daniels said. Running for charity is a great way to add more meaning to your experience and offers you a chance to give back to people and organizations in need. Starting with the 2015 Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend, runDisney is excited to offer our charity partners the opportunity to use CrowdRise. This registration platform makes it easier for runners to find a charity, register for an event, then track and share their fundraising progress with friends and family. As Daniels told me, “It is the ultimate gift to be able to raise money to help families who you don’t know, who you’ll never meet, who need it.” To get information on running for a participating runDisney charity, visit CrowdRise. And click here if you want to join Daniels and run the 2015 Princess Half Marathon presented by Children Miracle Network Hospitals. #WhyIrunDisney is dedicated to sharing compelling and motivational human interest stories. To view submissions and learn how to upload your story, visit irundisney.com I runDisney for Those I Couldn’t Help – I am Running for Charity by Robert Hitchcock: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

As the “Frozen” Summer Fun celebration continues at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, I have some exciting news to share about a new, limited edition retail MagicBand, featuring Olaf from Disney’s “Frozen.” This item is now available at Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The shop is located between Toy Story Midway Mania and Studio Backlot Tour. I spoke with Kevin-Michael Lezotte, merchandiser for retail MagicBands, about this latest addition. “We saw a great response from guests when we released two limited edition MagicBands during Star Wars Weekends earlier this year,” explained Kevin-Michael. “This new MagicBand is pre-printed with an image of Olaf ‘chillin’ in summer, and will be presented in a specially designed packaging. These pre-printed MagicBands are another great way guests can show off their Disney Side while visiting Walt Disney World Resort this summer.” This limited edition retail MagicBand will have an edition size of 5,000, and will have a retail of $29.95 (plus tax). You may recall that this new MagicBand will join three open edition MagicBands inspired by Disney’s “Frozen,” which are currently offered in Wandering Oaken’s Trading Post. As with all retail MagicBand purchases, guests must present one of the following for the MagicBand to be linked to at the time of purchase: valid theme park admission, Memory Maker card or another MagicBand. These specific “Frozen” MagicBands will not be offered on our Disney Parks online store or via Merchandise Guest Services team. Guests, however, can find other select MagicBand accessories, like MagicBandits and MagicSliders, online at DisneyParks.com/Store. Enjoy Frozen Summer Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios with New Limited Edition Retail MagicBand by Steven Miller: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Foolish mortals, I have good news for you. I have been digging up as much information as I could on commemorative merchandise that has been created in celebration of the 45th anniversary of the Haunted Mansion at Disneyland park. As the gatekeeper to your pin collection, it’s up to you to determine if there is room for one more. Here’s a look at what I was able to unearth in regards to limited edition pin releases taking place on August 7. The pins shown above will be available at the following Disneyland Resort locations: Disneyland park – Little Green Men Store CommandDisney California Adventure park – Trolley TreatsDowntown Disney District – Disney Pin TradersThis next collection is sure to send you packing. A limited edition of 300, this boxed set featuring Ezra, Gus, Phineas and the Hatbox Ghost in the mirrors, comes complete in a suitcase inspired box. Also available will be a Jumbo Poster Pin and a Framed Pin Set featuring Haunted Mansion inspired keys. Tip: These items will only be available to purchase at Disney Pin Traders in the Downtown Disney District. Wristband distribution guidelines will apply. Now, I always like an air of mystery, especially when it comes in the form of a limited release Mystery Pin Set which features iconic characters throughout the attraction, including the Hitchhiking Ghosts, the Bride, Dueling Portraits, Hatbox Ghost, and Madame Leota. Before I go, I couldn’t resist sharing this next group of pins featuring some of our most dastardly Disney Villains in their own interpretations of the Haunted Mansion stretching portraits. As you can see Cruella DeVil, Horace and Jasper, Captain Hook, the Queen of Hearts and Cheshire Cat, as well as the one and only Maleficent, are positively haunting in these famed portraits. Look for these pins at select pin purchasing locations at the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Resorts, later in the month on August 21. Which ones are you ‘dying’ to get? Haunted Mansion 45th Anniversary Pin Releases at the Disneyland Resort by Michelle Harker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Coffee fans, rejoice! Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea Company is introducing nine new coffees – Disney Parks and Resorts Specialty Coffee Collection, a collaboration with Joffrey’s head roastmaster and some of the top Disney chefs. We love the pretty packaging almost as much as the 100 percent Specialty Grade Arabica coffee. From Walt Disney World Resort, there’s a new coffee for Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The Wave … of American Flavors and California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Cítricos and Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Yachtsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. At Disneyland Resort, both Napa Rose at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Steakhouse 55 at the Disneyland Hotel have their own special coffees. Best of all, since you can’t wake up at Disney every morning, you can order the special blends online at http://www.joffreys.com/DisneyParksandResorts. Based in Tampa, Fla., Joffrey’s was one of the first specialty roasters in Florida, and their relationship with Disney began in 1995 with a single kiosk at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park at Walt Disney World Resort. New Magical Flavors From Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea, Inspired by Disney Parks & Resorts by Pam Brandon: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

How cute is this photo of Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom Park? It sure looks like our camera caught his attention. Maybe after so many years, this four-legged member of the family finally has something to say. But what? You tell us. Go ahead and “Caption This” photo in the “Comments” section below! Caption This: Rover Speaks at Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress by Jennifer Fickley-Baker: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Now’s the Time! I’m pleased to announce that tickets for this year’s Disney Food Blog Snack Attack Illuminations Dessert Party are now available for purchase. Scroll down and click the ticket button to snag yours today! Tickets are limited, and are first-come, first-served. View of Illuminations for Snack Attack — Super Close to the Action! About Snack AttackThe DFB Snack Attack is an exclusive, VIP event featuring a menu full of our favorite Walt Disney World snacks — all in one place – AND an incredible, private view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth in Epcot! Click here to see a review and photos from a DFB Snack Attack last year! IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth — And Your View from Snack Attack! The event features a dessert buffet with some classic Disney Food Blog favorites! Epcot Norway School Bread at Snack Attack We are still working out the details of this year’s menu, but you can be assured that it will include plenty of DFB Favorite Snacks, like School Bread from Kringla Bakeri og Kafe and Carrot Cake Cookies from Writer’s Stop in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! All-You-Can-Eat Writer’s Stop Carrot Cake Cookies! While Snack Attack ticket-holders will certainly appreciate the one-of-a-kind menu, you’ll also be able to relax and enjoy a VIP view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, Epcot’s outstanding fireworks spectacular! How to Buy TicketsHere are the details! Click the ticket button below to purchase. The event will take place at the UK Pavilion in Epcot from 8:30pm-9:30pm on October 14, 2014. Families are welcome! Each member of your party will need their name on the list for entry (children under 3 are free). Tickets are $60 per person, and include: *Entrance to the event *Access to an all-you-care-to-eat, specialized menu dessert buffet (plus popcorn!) *Access to the private IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth viewing area Only guests with their full names on our roster will be admitted to the event, so please pay attention to the instructions you receive after purchasing to send us the names of the people in your party. Tickets are limited and will be sold first-come, first-served. Tickets are non-refundable. Weather may impact location of the event. Extreme severe weather may cause for cancellation of IllumiNations. Hope to See You There!We’ve had such a great time at our last four Snack Attacks; I can’t wait to do it again! I’m looking forward to meeting all of you and sharing this incredible experience! Have questions? Please mail us at support@DFBGuide.com! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: DFB October 2nd, 2013, Snack Attack IllumiNations Dessert Party Tickets On Sale Now!DFB Snack Attack IllumiNations Dessert Party Tickets On Sale May 13thTickets Now Available for the DFB Snack Attack Illuminations Dessert Party View the full article

We’re dining with the stars at THE place to “see and be seen!” Learn About: Hollywood Brown DerbyDisney's Hollywood Studios Disney World RestaurantsWelcome to The Hollywood Brown Derby! We’re enjoying lunch while taking a trip back in time to the elegance of the “golden age” of Hollywood. For fans of classic films, even within Hollywood Studios this signature restaurant is a destination in its own right. A replica of the original Hollywood Brown Derby (a fine dining establishment for the likes of Clark Gable, Lucille Ball, and Bing Crosby back in the day), the Derby of Hollywood Studios offers park-goers a touch of refined elegance in the midst of a busy park day. In fact, I’d say that once you enter the doors of the Brown Derby, it’s a little bit difficult to remember that you’re in a theme park at all. Let’s step inside… AtmosphereI mention taking “a trip back in time” because I feel as though the setting of The Hollywood Brown Derby transports guests to another place and era better than just about any place in Disney World, starting with the outside entrance. Brown Derby entrance Brown Derby entrance A plaque on the outside gives guests a tiny bit of the history and inspiration for the Hollywood Studios location, though many may stroll right past and miss it. Plaque noting the inspiration for the building There are two defining features, I think, to the Brown Derby. One is the fact that the Brown Derby at Hollywood Studios is based on the actual Hollywood Brown Derby (one of four original Brown Derby locations). Once you step inside, your Brown Derby history lesson begins when you see a map in the waiting area. This map displays the locations of two of the original Brown Derby restaurants. Fans of Disney history may recognize the name of Griffith Park up in the right-hand corner. Hollywood Boulevard Map Griffith Park is where Walt Disney watched his daughters enjoy the Merry-Go-Round and thought to himself, “There ought to be a place where parents and kids can have fun together,” planting the seeds of future plans for Disneyland. Closeup on the Brown Derby locations, with Griffith Park in the corner The second defining characteristic is based on the first. The original Derby’s “Wall of Fame” consisted of caricatures of celebrities, and those have been replicated in the Hollywood Studios location, providing memorable hallmarks. You begin to see them in the waiting area where you check in for your meal. Check-in podium Caricatures in the waiting area And they continue inside all along the perimeter of the restaurant. Brown Derby caricatures Brown Derby caricatures One of my personal goals was to see if I could spot a caricature of Bing Crosby, one of my favorites. As it turned out, his likeness was hanging right over my shoulder . I love the comedic touch of the mirror images of his film-and-life buddy, Bob Hope, on either side! Bob Hope, Bing Crosby, and… Bob Hope! It’s definitely worth taking some time to explore the artwork all over the restaurant. You may spot a few photo images of the original Brown Derby, giving you an idea of how well and painstakingly the details and atmosphere were replicated. Photograph of one of the original Brown Derbys Standalone tables fill in the center of the restaurant, and much like the original photographs show, the deep browns of the dark woods on the main floor are offset by the soft white on the walls. Main Dining Room Main Dining Room One thing I really appreciate about the Brown Derby is that if you are seated on the side, as we were, the atmosphere is still pretty terrific. Since I often dine in a small party of one or two, I’m used to the side tables. But in several places, I feel like I’ve been relegated to something akin to the kids table at Thanksgiving, so this is a welcome change. The soft lighting and caricatures that define the rest of the décor remain in this area as well. One side area in the Brown Derby That said, it’s still the ultimate seating score to be in one of the gorgeous corner table booths on the main floor. Corner booth Our visit was for lunch, but in the evening the entire restaurant is primarily lit by these small corner lamps and candles on the tables, creating – I think — one of the most refined and romantic atmospheres in the park restaurants. EatsSomething unique to a lunch visit at the Brown Derby is that you are handed not one, but two, menus. Lunch guests (12:00 pm to 3:00 pm) can choose from the Lunch Menu or the Dinner Menu. This offers an opportunity to save a penny or two going for a lower-priced lunch option, or go full tilt with your experience any time of day. Menu Cover Lunch Entree Menu — click to enlarge Dinner Entree Menu — click to enlarge Since we had even more than the usual amount of options to consider (plus appetizers, of course!), we were happy to receive a batch of warm dinner rolls and butter dusted with sea salt right away. Bread and butter While we didn’t imbibe on this particular visit, it’s always a great thing to check out the cocktail list – especially one with such fun Hollywood-inspired names such as these! “Cocktails of the Stars” — click to enlarge We love the martini and margarita flights! Martini Flight at Hollywood Brown Derby Brown Derby Citizens Take Flight Margarita Flight — Bucky Greenhorn’s Derby Margarita, Melvin Macheezmo Mango Margarita, and “Ready” Freddy Fiddlesticks Pomegranate Margarita The options for appetizers came from the Dinner Menu. Appetizer Menu — click to enlarge Our server made a recommendation for our appetizers that I was happy to take: Blue Lump Crab Spring Rolls, Snow Crab Claw, and an Asian Spicy Slaw with spicy Miso Aioli. Blue Lump Crab Spring Rolls, Snow Crab Claw, and an Asian Spicy Slaw These ended up being one of the true highlights of the meal: a terrific amount of delicious crab in a golden-fried roll. The crab was good enough that I preferred the roll on its own, but my husband particularly enjoyed it with the mild kick from the Miso Aioli. Cross-section of Crab Spring Rolls with Snow Crab Claw But you just can’t say you’ve been to the Brown Derby unless you’ve had the Derby’s “Famous Cobb Salad.” It’s such an integral part of the Brown Derby experience that a small portion of the menu is dedicated to sharing its history. The story behind the Famous Cobb Salad I’ve enjoyed the Cobb Salad as an entrée before, but on this visit I went with the appetizer portion. The ingredients remain true to the original recipe: greens, turkey breast, bacon, eggs, tomato, crumbled blue cheese, avocado, chives, and Hollywood Brown Derby dressing. The Famous Hollywood Brown Derby Cobb Salad I prefer the Cobb Salad in this, its original, fashion – even with all the Blue Cheese . However, our server did ask if we were okay with all the ingredients since anything can be omitted. So don’t let the presence of an ingredient you don’t like prevent you from enjoying this Brown Derby tradition! Cobb Salad all mixed up and ready to eat As for our entrees, my husband and I mixed it up: my entrée came from the lunch menu, and his came from the dinner. I went with “The Original” Fettuccine Alfredo topped with Prosciutto Brittle and Parmigiano-Reggiano . I also went with the option to add chicken (for an additional $4.00). “The Original” Fettuccine Alfredo topped with Prosciutto Brittle Looking back, I didn’t need to add the chicken. While it was fine, the huge serving of Fettuccine and it’s thick, unexpectedly tangy Alfredo sauce coupled with the generous amount of Prosciutto was more than enough. The bacon-like flavor and crunch of the Prosciutto ham brittle broke up the rich pasta dish nicely. “The Original” Fettuccine Alfredo with added chicken By the way, that bit of bread you see? It’s just a simple toast, lightly brushed with butter and herbs, but it completely melts in your mouth. My husband chose the Seafood Cioppino – Sautéed White Shrimp, New England’s Big “One” Mussels, and a Pan-Seared Fennel-dusted Black Grouper over Orzo Pasta with a Cioppino Broth. Seafood Cioppino I’ve had the chance to sample Grouper a couple of times at the Derby, and I’ve always wondered why it is so good – even to someone like me who rarely goes for fish. On this visit, I received my answer when our server informed me that the Grouper at the Derby is locally sourced, which explains how fresh it tastes. In this particular dish it was also well-seasoned. I left it completely to my husband to sample the mussels for you ;). He was impressed with the size of the mussels as well as the flavor, which he described as “not overly fishy.” Mussels in Seafood Cioppino I’ll quote him again when he shared that the shrimp was “about as good as you can get” — high praise coming from a huge shrimp fan. The one thing he mentioned he could do without was the abundant amount of the red Cioppino broth. While definitely appropriate for the style of the dish (a stew), he felt that with seafood of this quality, there were moments when it detracted from the meal rather than added to it. Seafood Cioppino Parents might be interested to know that, while the children’s entrees include standard kid-friendly fare such as grilled chicken, penne pasta, hot dogs, and occasionally grilled cheese among other options, on our visit a Grilled Black Grouper was also an option for the kiddos. Earlier this year, the Brown Derby switched it up with their dessert menu, offering a “Choose Your Own Dessert Trio.” Guests get their choice of three among nine mini dessert options. Dessert Menu For those curious about this restaurant’s signature Grapefruit Cake, it can still be ordered in a regular full-size as a standalone dessert (though you won’t see the full portion listed on the menu). For my trio, I chose the Caramel Custard with Passion Fruit Glace, Double Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee, and the Crunchy Sugar Cookie Puff with Lemon Grass Cream. The Caramel Custard had more than a small hint of citrus from the passion fruit glaze. I can’t say it was my favorite flavor combination. I always love Crème Brulee, so while not a particularly unusual offering among the others, it’s always enjoyable. The Sugar Cookie Puff was the winner here, and I think this picture gives a nice idea of its light, fluffy texture – though I wish I could better share some of its sweet, citrus taste! Inside the Sugar Cookie Puff My husband’s trio included the Amaretto Flan (simple, but full-flavored), the Chocolate Sphere (a smooth chocolate with a nice burst of hazelnut), and the Milk Chocolate Cremeux. Amaretto Flan, Chocolate Sphere, and Milk Chocolate Cremeux I thought you might like a glimpse at the light pudding and dark chocolate tucked inside the most unique of the three: the Milk Chocolate Cremeux. Milk Chocolate Cremeux Inside the Milk Chocolate Cremeux Ultimately, I can’t say any of the desserts really “wowed” me. Even with the fun array of choices, I would have preferred one terrific dessert over three decent ones. Dessert Trios aren’t all that unusual around Disney World (though the “Choose-Your-Own” option here is a nice touch), and for some reason I rarely find them memorable. Next time, it’s the full size Grapefruit Cake for me. OverallI wouldn’t call myself a cinema expert (I wish!), but as a fan of several films and movie stars from the late 1930s and the 1940s, it’s still a thrill for me any time I get to step inside the Derby doors. But what I appreciated most about this particular visit was having the option to consider — and enjoy one of — the lunch entrees. While the lunch menu is not extensive (around five choices, typically), with entrees starting at $16 – 17.00, a midday visit might be just the choice for those who have always been curious about this restaurant, its unique food, and its fantastic setting, but discouraged by the pricier entrees offered on the dinner menu. Of course, those on the Disney Dining Plan (or anyone looking to splurge) can also maximize the use of the two credits it takes to dine here on some well-prepared and unique dishes any time of day, allowing you to dine “among” — and like — the stars! Have you had lunch or dinner at The Hollywood Brown Derby? Please let us know your thoughts with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Guest Review: The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosGuest Review: The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood StudiosNews! Hollywood Brown Derby Patio Lounge May Be Opening Soon in Disney’s Hollywood Studios! View the full article

Each week, we’re asking for your special Disneyland Resort photo memories from a specific decade for a chance to win a trip to the kick-off of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration in spring 2015. And this week, it’s favorite memories from the 1970s. Erin has all of the details on how to participate and complete rules in her original story. When the submission period is complete, we’ll select the top five photos from each decade, and Disney Parks Blog readers will vote for the top photo from each of the Disneyland Decades. Each decade winner will receive a special Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration prize. Then, we’ll give you the chance to vote for one Grand Prize winner from among the winners of each decade. This lucky fan will win a trip to the start of the Disneyland Resort Diamond Celebration in spring 2015! No purchase necessary. Entries must be received by 8/27/14. 18/age of majority+, 50 US/DC only. Void where prohibited. See Rules for details. And time is running out to vote for your next downloadable Disney Parks Blog desktop wallpaper. Our Disneyland Resort Artist Sketch teams have created new images which pay homage to the beloved Haunted Mansion attraction, celebrating 45 spooky years at Disneyland park next week. Now, it’s up to you to choose. Let us know which of the four artist sketch designs is your favorite. Voting ends at 5 p.m. PDT on Monday, August 4. Here are some of the other stories we worked on this week. New Challenge, New Medal for Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort – Tinker Bell is at it again! runDisney introduced the Pixie Dust Challenge for Tinker Bell Half Marathon Weekend at Disneyland Resort, May 7-10, 2015. Join the Story with ‘Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!’ at Disneyland Park – Learn how to get involved in “Legends of Frontierland: Gold Rush!” Join Eagle Eye Erin and the folks of Rainbow Ridge or Two Bit Tyler and Frontierland. Disney Cruise Line Summer Recipe: Orange Cilantro Marinated Flank Steak – Need something new for your next summer barbeque? Try this recipe from Disney Cruise Line! Meet the Horses of the Disneyland Resort: Finn and Bug – Read more about these Brabant draft horses, part of the team on the Horse Drawn Streetcar on Main Street, U.S.A and the Big Thunder Ranch petting farm. Treat Yourself to the Pretzels and Peanut Butter Gourmet Apple at the Disneyland Resort -Take a look at the latest creation from the Disneyland Resort Candy Makers and where to get it at the Disneyland Resort! Download a Special Disney Parks Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Wallpaper -Mark the 15th anniversary of the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster with this special wallpaper for your desktop, iPad or mobile phone. Five Things You Can’t Miss During Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park – Make your list of must-do’s at Mickey’s Halloween Party at Disneyland Park! Disney Parks Blog Weekly Recap by Thomas Smith: Originally posted on the Disney Parks Blog View the full article

Ready for your 2015 trip planning? View of Illuminations for Snack Attack — Super Close to the Action! Now you can get all the latest details on the 2015 Disney Dining Plans here! And the DFB Snack Attack is BACK! Due to popular demand, we’re staging our Fourth (or Fifth? I can’t even remember!) Annual Epcot IllumiNations Dessert Party…featuring a custom menu of AWESOME desserts from around the “World”…on October 14th. Grab your tickets tomorrow! You’ll find all the news on Disney food below; happy reading! Disney Food NewsTwo BRAND NEW Events are debuting at the 2014 Food & Wine Festival! Epcot Food & Wine Late Nights LIVE! and the Epcot Food & Wine Premium Package!The Four Seasons Orlando is opening today! Check out our overview of the dining options here.The DFB Snack Attack is BACK! Tickets go on sale tomorrow for our October 14th, 2014 dessert party!Now you can experience the deliciousness of Dole Whip at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii!2015 Disney Dining Plan packages have been released. Find out what’s changing for 2015!Check out LB’s new elixers in Disneyland at the L.B. Enterprises Elixirs Stand.Disneyland’s ESPN Zone features some new Summer menu items! Check out all the latest Disney Food News — even the stuff we don’t mention in posts on the blog! — on our Disney Food News Pin Board, including restaurant closures, Photo Package Update at Cinderella’s Royal Table, and more! DFB Reader FindsIf you find a fun new food — or other edible awesomeness — in or from Disney, share a photo with us on facebook or twitter so we can add it to our DFB Reader Finds each Sunday! Cheese-lovers, check these out! This week we’re sharing two delicious menu items that you’re sure to enjoy. From Walt Disney World, we have the African Chili-Cheese Dog from the Mara at the Animal Kingdom Lodge. Tweeted by @braindud92, this hot dog features sweet African spices. African Chili Cheese Dog And from Disneyland, we’re drooling over the Jolly Holiday Combo (a Toasted Cheese Sandwich with Tomato Basil Soup). Shared by Reader Adam: “Tried the Jolly Holiday Combo last night per @DisneyFoodBlog many reviews! Well worth it for sure!” Jolly Holiday Combo Thanks for sharing these gorgeous entrees! DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine FestivalLast week, we announced the grand launch of the DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival e-Book! With over 220 pages and multiple bonus items, it’s pretty substantial! As we continue our celebration, we have a discount option for DFB readers. You can get the new mini-guide for $3 off the regular price for a limited time — just use code MENUS at the check-out! The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-BookThe DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival e-Book features all the info you need to know before you attend the Food and Wine Festival this year, from what’s NEW this year to touring strategies — and a new section with top tips on how to use MyMagic+ at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival! And with the Epcot Food & Wine festival rapidly approaching, the time is now! Booking for festival events opened July 31st, and our exclusive daily schedule of events is the most efficient way to plan your festival strategy. (Did you purchase a pre-order of the DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival and not receive your book? Let us know at Support@DFBGuide.com!) With a detailed schedule of seminars and events for every single day of the festival, it’s a quick, easy way to decide what activities and events you want to book! Don’t waste time flipping between web pages, PDFs, and websites — just find the date you need and we’ve got it all right there in front of you. Just like that! Find Everything That’s Going On During Your Visit in our FULL Daily Schedule of Events! As always, we’ve made this guide instantly downloadable for your convenience, and easily installed on your mobile devices. It’s a PDF guide with over 220 pages of detailed information about the Festival as well as photographs and customized bonus items to help you get the best experience possible. On a budget? Find out how to make those dollars (or Disney Dining Plan snack credits) stretch all around World Showcase. And we have a fully updated FAQ section that answers questions you didn’t even know you had! This guide is guaranteed to help you better plan a rewarding Food & Wine Festival tour, or your money back — we all know that your vacation time (and budget) are limited and we want you to get the most out of your visit! Bonus ItemsThe DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival includes customized bonus items that go above and beyond any other Food & Wine Festival coverage currently available. These include: A full, daily schedule of events for every day of the festivalA printable World Showcase Booth Menu Checklist that you can use to plan, and easily bring with you to the festivalThemed World Showcase booth crawls (there’s even one for the kids!)Food and Wine Festival customized Touring Strategies for One Day visits, Budget-Conscious visits, visits with kids, and moreA chapter dedicated to all “New for 2014″ events, menu items, booths, and moreFull food, wine, beer, winery, cocktail, and chef indexes, including dates and locations of where you can find your favoritesEpcot Food and Wine Festival recipesTop tips on how to use MyMagic+ at the Epcot Food and Wine FestivalAnd more!Both veterans and those new to the festival will appreciate knowing what they are getting before spending time and vacation dollars. Whether you want to sample wine, enjoy a craft beer, taste test an exotic dish, or find the best dessert, The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival will help you discover the right strategy for you. Don’t forget — for easy access in the parks, put the guide on your smartphone or ipad! Once again, celebrate our updated guide with us by getting $3 off the purchase price for the e-Book! Order your copy now for only $11.95 (regularly $14.95). To secure the discount, use code MENUS at the check-out. Want an Even Better Deal?We’ve got it! For an even bigger discount, head over to the DFB Store and check out our e-Book Bundles! “Everything Bundle,” Including Food and Wine: Planning a big trip and need the low-down on Disney Food across the board? We’ve got it all for you in this steeply discounted e-Book Bundle, which includes the Epcot Food & Wine Festival Guide and the Holidays at Disney World Guide! Food and Wine Bundle: Another chance to pick up two of our very best-selling guides! Get a significant discount on our 450-page DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining 2014, and the DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food and Wine Festival — together! This Food and Wine Bundle offers all of our insider tips and tricks for the Festival AND the rest of your Disney World visit! For more detailed information and sample pages from The DFB Guide to the 2014 Epcot Food & Wine Festival, head over to the DFB Store!With a 100% money-back guarantee on all of our guides, you have nothing to lose! The Grey Stuff Plate On to the Round-Up!Mickey Fix features a Try The Grey Stuff plate. Beauty and the Beast fans will want these dishes. disZine shares more information on Disney Springs. Gorillas Don’t Blog highlights a photo from Disneyland’s Tahitian Terrace! Daveland tours the new Club 33 at Disneyland. Orlando Sentinel reports on food donations from Disney’s Orlando restaurants. Orange County Register features the upcoming renovation at Disneyland’s Napa Rose at the Grand Californian Hotel. Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Disney Food Post Round-Up: July 27, 2014Disney Food Post Round-Up: August 12, 2012Disney Food Post Round-Up: June 22, 2014 View the full article

Welcome to Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, where “luxury meets magic!” We got a chance to take a look around the hotel before it opens, and wanted to give you a quick peek! (Nope; they’re not paying us to do this. We just figured you’d be interested. ;-D) Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World Opening August 3rd, Four Seasons Orlando says they will provide a best-of-both-worlds vacation experience: “easy access to all the area entertainment in a tranquil setting,” at Golden Oak in Walt Disney World, according to Thomas Steinhauer, Regional Vice President and General Manager. The Disney Help Desk Stairwell to the lobby Chandelier Twenty-six acres will hold 423 rooms, five acres of recreation, a spa… oh, and a few restaurants . Dining will play a major role in the guest experience. Ravello’s Tonno (Pan-seared tuna) Oysters “roc” a fella from PB&G Chocolate Cake at Four Seasons Orlando Four Seasons will be home to five restaurants (as well as two lounges), varying in cuisine and atmosphere. Capa, the rooftop Spanish Steakhouse, and Plancha, a daytime stop on the resort’s golf course featuring Cuban fare, are set to open in September. Three restaurants are set to open immediately in August: Ravello, PB&G, and Lickety-Split. FYI, Director of Food & Beverage Stephen Wancha mentioned that the hotel has an “approachable and affordable” dining focus, with the goal that guests would feel equally as comfortable and welcome coming in for dinner on a Tuesday night as they would celebrating a 15th anniversary. Since all dining locations will be open to the public – and not just resort guests – we thought everyone might enjoy a glimpse! Ravello will feature Italian cuisine in a sleek, urban atmosphere. Ravello entrance Ravello Seating Ravello Seating It shares two features with every other restaurant at the resort: first, an open kitchen. Open kitchen at Ravello And the second shared feature is indoor and outdoor seating. Ravello outdoor seating In the mornings, Ravello will offer a full breakfast buffet, offering everything from a healthy wellness section to unique items like Lobster Benedict. But the biggest breakfast news might be that Ravello will also offer Character Dining! Every Thursday and Saturday and on select Tuesdays, “Goofy and Pals” will help guests greet the day with a Good Morning Breakfast. In the evenings, the focus will turn to house-made pastas and pizzas served a la carte. Decorative pasta jars at Ravello Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi shared a bit of the philosophy behind his creations: a focus on  making everything they possibly can in-house with the freshest ingredients, and plans to work with as much local Florida food as possible. The exception here will be the olive oils, tomato, and flour, which will be imported from Italy. The water used in the restaurant will be sourced from Torino. Check out this Veal Ravioli! Ravello’s Veal Ravioli The veal, spinach, and ricotta stuffed ravioli is topped with wild mushrooms and truffle “essence.” Veal Ravioli Though the focus is on pasta and pizza, other entrees will be available as well, such as the beautifully plated Tonno: tuna quickly seared in a saba reduction and basil oil, and served on top of eggplant caponata. Ravello’s Tonno Later in the evening we saw Ravello’s light, creamy, and refreshing Panna Cotta, topped with edible gold leaf. Fancy. Panna Cotta But let’s say you’re more the mood for some poolside fun… then we’re off to PB&G! PB&G Sign The acronym standing for Pool, Bar, & Grill gives you some idea of what to expect: an open bar and grill set between the resort’s adults-only and family pools. Outdoor walkway to PB&G Seating at PB&G PB&G Bar I mentioned that it only gives you “some idea.” That’s because some of the dishes and flavors here are decidedly unexpected! We’ll start with one of the poolside cocktails, Peach Time. Pouring some Peach Time! Absolut Peach Vodka, Peach and Raspberry Grand Marnier, ginger tea, fresh cut peaches and thyme (offering a fun play on the name “Peach Time”) combine in this smooth, just-sweet-enough beverage. Peach Time But the biggest surprises come from the concept behind the menu. At PB&G, the barbeque dishes will fall in one of two categories: “Homage” and “Treason”. “Homage” dishes will do exactly that: pay homage to traditional, southern barbeque with entrees such as rotisserie chicken and beef brisket. But the Chef described the “Treason” dishes as “barbeque sacrilege.” Alongside of the more traditional items, they’ll be smoking foods such as octopus and tofu. It sounds like nothing will be off limits! Plates will be chock full of barbeque goodness: Rotisserie Chicken with potato salad, Beef Brisket with sauerkraut coleslaw on rye, and Oysters “Roc”a Fella with spinach puree, smoked aioli, bacon breadcrumbs. Rotisserie chicken, Beef Brisket, and Oysters “Roc” a Fella The beef brisket with sauerkraut will be w inner. The punch of the sauerkraut slaw on top of the tender, smoky brisket is unexpected! Beef Brisket with sauerkraut coleslaw It’s all a terrifically fun take on barbeque that manages to please both adventurous eaters and those who are pickier. Small bites will be available as well, including these deviled eggs topped with caviar – can’t say I’ve seen these at any other pool bar . Deviled eggs topped with Caviar Our final stop is Lickety-Split: the house coffee bar and gelataria, which will also offer other goodies created in-house daily. Lickety-Split Lickety-Split booth Coffee selections will include six different blends and several different brewing methods. I was completely fascinated with the cold brew drip tower, dripping ice water over the grounds and into the decanter, taking 8 hours to brew. Cold Brew Drip Tower Drip falling into the Cold Brew decanter It’s the only one of its kind in Orlando. Morning guests will have the chance to enjoy Bomboloni: Italian donuts described as having a “muted sweetness.” The star here, however, will likely be the 15 flavor gelato bar, opening along with the resort on August 3rd. Unique flavors such as Sour Patch Kids and Key Lime Pie will make their debut alongside more traditional tastes. Speaking of Key Lime Pie… Four Seasons Key Lime Pie We had the opportunity to sample a few of the desserts that will be featured around the resort, made by a team of gourmet chefs led by Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber. It was difficult to decide which to choose from options such as Carrot Cake, Dulce de Leche, and Tiramisu. Four Seasons Carrot Cake Four Seasons Dulce de Leche Four Seasons Tiramisu But ultimately I couldn’t pass up the to-die-for Pecan Pie. Four Seasons Pecan Pie Oh, and a little of that gorgeous Panna Cotta, too ;). Ravello’s Panna Cotta Again, two more restaurants will be opening at Four Seasons in September: Capa, a Spanish Steakhouse also serving tapas, will boast fireworks views from the 17th floor roof of all three nighttime Park spectaculars. Plancha will be available during the day right around the resort’s golf course. Upon it’s August 3rd opening, Four Seasons will welcome both resort and non-resort guests to enjoy their unique and varied restaurants and lounges. Reservations are currently being accepted on www.opentable.com. For more information on the resort, its dining opportunities, amenities, and room reservations, visit http://www.fourseasons.com/orlando/ and learn more about what is bound to be a remarkable experience! Booking for the restaurants may soon be available on DisneyWorld.com. Thanks to the Four Seasons for showing us around and letting us sample some of the eats! Would you like to dine in one of the Four Seasons restaurants? Please let us know which one with a comment! Disney Food Blog Fans, be sure to check out our DFB Disney World Dining Guide e-Books! Find great deals at DFBStore.com!Also, come on over and: Subscribe to our NewsletterFollow us on TwitterBecome a Facebook Fan Related posts: Dining in Disneyland: Sneak Peek at Trolley Treats & Clarabelle’s Ice Cream, Opening June 15thSneak Peek at a Dinner in the Great Movie RideReview: A Sneak Peek at Harambe Nights in Disney World’s Animal Kingdom! View the full article