2020 Epcot Festival of the Arts : Foodie Guide

The Epcot Festival of the Arts, January 17 to February 24, is a celebration of all art forms, but my favorite to discover is the culinary arts!

It’s true that you eat with your eyes first, and each of these festival exclusive Food Studios will paint an exquisite picture of gastronomical perfection!

Throughout Epcot’s World Showcase (and more) you can find fun and colorful fare, and here is a look at what you can find in each Epcot Festival of the Arts Food Studio.

2020 Epcot Festival of the Arts Food Studio Guide

The Deconstructed Dish

Embark on an edible adventure with delicious dishes that dazzle!

Food:

  • Deconstructed Reuben: Sliced Corned Beef, Rye-crusted Sauerkraut and Jarlsberg Cake with Broken Thousand Island Dressing
  • Deconstructed BLT: Crispy Pork Belly, Tomato Jam and Soft Poached Egg
  • Deconstructed Strawberry Cheesecake: Whipped New York Style Cheesecake with Fresh Florida Strawberries and Sugar Cookies with Micro-basil (KA)

Beverages:

  • Rainboba: Sparkling Water layered with Fruit Boba and topped with a Foam Cloud (non-alcoholic) (KA)
  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake garnished with Maple Syrup, a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon (non-alcoholic) (KA)
  • Imagery Sauvignon Blanc, California
  • Mad Genius Red Blend, California
  • Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with Cream Bourbon, garnished with a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon
Meat, broccoli and cherry tomatoes sit on a bed of mashed potatoes

Cuisine Classique

Prepare to be amazed with these hearty braised bites and traditional Old World delights!

Food:

  • Red Wine-braised Beef Short Rib with Parsnip Purée, Broccolini, Baby Tomatoes and Aged Balsamic
  • Seared Corvina with braised Ratatouille and Lemon-Thyme Beurre Blanc (GF) (KA)
  • Saint-Honoré Tart: Caramel Cream Tart with Caramel Glaze topped with Cream Puffs
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)

Beverages:

  • Angry Orchard Rosé Hard Cider, Walden, NY
  • Concrete Beach Brewery Rosé Ale, Miami, FL
  • Frozen Rosé
  • Campo Viejo Rioja Reserva Art Series, Logrono, Spain
  • Domaine Savary Chablis, Burgundy
  • A Play on Rosé Flight
A pan seared scallop with chorizo, roasted red pepper coulis and a parmesan crisp

The Artist’s Table

Satisfy hunger with these savory plates—all prepared using oven and stove-top techniques!

Food:

  • Beef Wellington with Mushroom Bordelaise, Fennel Cream, and Roasted Baby Vegetables (KA)
  • Pan-Seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis and a Parmesan Crisp (GF)
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)

Beverages:

  • Sipping Chocolate Flight: White, Milk and Dark (non-alcoholic)
  • Saugatuck Brewing Co. Neapolitan Milk Stout, Douglas, MI
  • Lexington Brewing Company Kentucky Vanilla Barrel Cream Ale, Lexington, KY
  • Lindemans Framboise Lambic, Belgium
  • Barrymore Rosé, Monterey County, CA
  • Carmel Road Drew’s Blend Pinot Noir, Monterey County, CA
  • Symphony in Chocolate Flight: Mozart Cream Liqueurs paired with Sipping Chocolates
  • Chocolate and Beer Pairing Flight
A classic Mondrian style painting is baked into a slice of cake and frosted in chocolate

Pop Eats!

Unearth the tasty treasures and tantalizing textures of modern art-inspired eats!

Food:

  • Sous Vide Chicken Roulade with Apples and Sage served with Warm Brie Fondue, Blueberry and Beet Gel and garnished with Beet Chip Crumbles (GF)
  • Shrimp Ceviche with Lime Mint Foam (GF)
  • Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Belgian Chocolate (KA)
  • Pop’t Art: Modern-design Sugar Cookie with Strawberry Filling (KA)

Beverages:

  • Blue Sky Black Cherry Boba Freeze (non-alcoholic) (KA)
  • #RainbowSherbetGlitterDreamAle by Playalinda Brewing Co., Titusville, FL
  • Popping Bubbles Cocktail
  • Tomato Soup Can Bloody Mary
A lemon tart topped with blueberries and other fruit

Decadent Delights

Indulge in a gallery of divine delectables that transform dessert into a fine art!

Food:

  • White Chocolate and Purple Sweet Potato Mousse, Caramel, Coconut and Maple Meringue
  • Chocolate, Peanut Butter and Pretzel Crunch (KA)
  • Lemon and Blood Orange Tart
  • Artist Palette Jumbo Chocolate-Chip Cookie (KA)
  • White Chocolate Figment Puzzle on an Artist Palette (KA)

Beverages:

  • 3 Daughters Strawberry Blonde Nitro, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Breckenridge Nitro Vanilla Porter, Breckenridge, CO
  • Young’s Double Chocolate Stout, England
  • Biagio Moscato d’Asti, Piedmont
  • Florida Orange Groves Winery Black and Blue Port, St. Petersburg, FL
  • Cold Fashioned Coffee Cocktail
  • Neapolitan Beer Flight
A plate of risotto featuring mushrooms and shrimp

The Masterpiece Kitchen

Raise your glass and celebrate this fabulous fusion of food and wine—cheers!

Food:

  • Wild Mushroom Risotto, Aged Parmesan, Truffle Shavings and Zinfandel Reduction (KA)
  • Smoked Salmon and Cream Gâteau with Egg Yolk Cream, Paddlefish Caviar and Micro-herbs
  • Charcuterie Palette with Artisan Cured Meats and Cheeses featuring Nueske’s ® Applewood Smoked Beef
  • Vanilla, Rose Water and Pistachio Panna Cotta

Beverages:

  • Weihenstephaner Original Lager, Freising, Germany
  • Perrier-Jouët Belle Époque Brut Champagne
  • The Meeker Vineyard Winemakers’ Handprint Merlot, Sonoma County, CA
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut, Spain
  • Pinord La Dama Reserva Familiar Brut Rosé, Spain
  • Classic Sidecar with a Chocolate Twist
A plant based bratwurst topped with vegetables

Additional Festival Locations

Delight your appetite with mouthwatering morsels, nibbles and noshes from these year-round food stops.

Funnel Cakes – The American Adventure

Food:

  • Peanut Butter & Jelly Sandwich Funnel Cake with Peanut Butter Ice Cream, Marshmallow Cream and Raspberry Glaze (KA)

Fife & Drum – The American Adventure

Food:

  • Musical Float: Layered Strawberry, Lemonade and Blue Raspberry Slushy with Vanilla Ice Cream and White Chocolate (non-alcoholic) (KA)

Block & Hans – The American Adventure

Beverage

  • Arendelle Aqua Lemonade: Frozen Lemonade with Monin Cotton Candy and Ole Smoky Blackberry Moonshine

Goshiki – Japan Pavilion

Food:

  • Taiyaki: Fish-shaped Cake stuffed with a Sweet Red Bean Filling served with Green Tea Chocolate and Whipped Cream Cheese (KA)
  • Sushi Donut: Donut-shaped Sushi featuring Salmon, Tuna, Shrimp, Cucumber and Sesame Seed over a decorated plate of Wasabi Aïoli, Sriracha and Eel Sauce
  • Vegetable Gyoza: Vegetable and Edamame filled Gyoza atop Truffle-mashed Potatoes, Shiitake Mushrooms, Pepper Strings and Tonkatsu Teriyaki Sauce (KA)

Beverages:

  • Nomi Masui Draft Lager
  • Masu Sake in a Traditional Personalized Wooden Cup
  • Nigori Sake Cocktail: Frozen Nigori Sake and Calpico accented with Strawberry and finished with Cotton Candy

Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company

Beverages:

  • Canada: Impressionism Pairing: Blackberry Iced Latte topped with a delicious Blueberry Donut and Sweet Whipped Cream
  • Showcase Plaza: Renaissance Pairing: Iced Mocha Latte served with a timeless Glazed Donut and Sprinkles
  • Future World East: Modern Pairing: Coconut Iced Latte garnished with a decadent Chocolate Donut and topped with Whipped Cream and Sprinkles
  • The American Adventure: Baroque Pairing: White Mocha Iced Latte layered with a Red Velvet Donut and Sprinkles

El Arista Hambriento – Mexico Pavilion

Food:

  • Sopes de Barbacoa: Braised Barbacoa Beef served on Fried Guajillo Corn Shell with Black Beans, Cotija Cheese, Mexican Cream and Chives
  • Agave Pork Belly: Pork Belly caramelized with Agave atop Pumpkin Seed Pesto Lentil Salad

Beverages:

  • Frida Banana Daiquiri: Mexican Handcrafted Rum, Banana Purée and Applejack (served Frozen)
  • Diego Blackberry Margarita: 100% Agave Tequila, Blackberry Purée, Fresh Jalapeño-Lime Juice served with Black Ant Salt Rim
  • Mexican White Sangria: White Wine, Fruit Juices and Sweet Cinnamon-infused Tequila

Refreshment OutPost – Outpost

Food:

  • Plant-based Bratwurst with Spicy Turmeric Aïoli, Coffee Barbecue Jackfruit and Slaw
  • Paintbrush Churros: Cinnamon-Sugar Churros Dipped in Colorful White Chocolate (KA)

Beverages:

  • Barrel of Monks Brewery Endless Enigma Golden Pale Ale, Boca Raton, FL
  • Collective Arts Brewing Life in the Closus Hazy IPA, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
  • M.I.A. Beer Company Malt Bach Brown Ale, Doral, FL
  • Popcorn Pairing Flight

Refreshment Port – Showcase Plaza

Food:

  • Lobster Chips: House-made Chips, Lobster, Lobster Bisque Cheese Sauce, Pickled Jalapeños and Citrus Cream

Beverages:

  • Ciderboys Zen Berry Apple Boysenberry Hard Cider, Stevens Point, WI
  • Spottswoode Sauvignon Blanc, Napa Valley, CA

Test Track Cool Wash – Future World East

Beverages:

  • Assorted Coca-Cola Slushies (non-alcoholic) (KA)

The Painted Panda – China

Food:

  • Spicy Beef Shumai
  • Char Siu Pork Bun

Beverages:

  • “Panda” Bubble Tea: Classic Milk Tea with Black and White Boba Pearls (non-alcoholic) (KA)
  • Jasmine Draft Beer
  • Fortune Cookie: ByeJoe Spirit, Amaretto, Coconut and Pineapple
  • Kung Fu Punch: Vodka, Triple Sec
  • Sea Butterfly: Butterfly Pea Flower-infused Cocktail with Lychee Syrup, Vodka, Light Rum and Magic Boba Pearls

L’Art du Cuisine Francaise – France

Food:

  • Crème de Brie en Petit Pain: Warm Creamy Brie in a House-made Bread Bowl (KA)
  • Tomate Farcie Faҫon Paul Bocuse: Tomato Stuffed with Braised Ribs Paul Bocuse-style
  • Moelleux Aux Chocolats Valrhona: Molten Chocolate Cake with Pure Origin Valrhona Chocolates (KA)
  • Trio de Macarons: Assortment of Three House-made Macarons in a Gift Box

Beverages:

  • Frozen French Martini: Grey Goose, Vodka, Chambord Liqueur, Pineapple, Orange and Grape Juice with Lemon-Lime Foam
  • Veuve du Vernay, Brut N°1, Limited Edition: French Sparkling Wine
  • Vouvray, Marcel Dubois, 2018
  • Bordeaux, Château Malbec, 2015

Mosaic Canteen – Morocco

Food:

  • Spiced Beef with Pine Nuts and Dried Cherries, Hummus and Pita Chips
  • Mediterranean Flatbread with Zaatar, Olive Oil Artichoke, Olives, Mozzarella and Feta Cheese
  • Chebbakia: Hand-twisted Strips of Fried Dough coated with Honey, Rosewater and Sesame Seeds

Beverages:

  • Casa Beer
  • Kabash Prestige White Wine
  • Embrace the Arak: Massaya Arak, Grapefruit Juice and Grenadine

L’Arte di Mangiare – Italy

Food:

  • Insalata di Gamberi al Limone di Zagara: Salad of Poached Shrimp in Sicilian Lemons, Arugula, Shaved Fennel, Avocado, and Citrus Dressing
  • Pollo ala Pirandello: Golden Chicken Drumstick stuffed with Ricotta Cheese and Pomodoro Sauce (KA)
  • Rossini: Prosecco Mousse with Strawberry Sauce (contains alcohol) 

Beverages:

  • Peroni Nastro Azzurro Pilsner
  • Prosecco, Villa Sandi
  • Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande
  • Corbinello, Montegrande
  • Pinot Grigio, Santa Marina
  • Merlot, Montegrande
  • Amaretto Bellini: Amaretto, White Peach Purée and Prosecco
  • Vodka Rossini: Vodka, Strawberry Purée and Prosecco
Panna cotta shaped beautifully into a rose in the middle of a plate

Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine

New this year to the Epcot Festival of the Arts, take a technicolor tour around Epcot and sample a spectrum of dazzling, delicious dishes in a vibrant variety of hues.

Purchase any 5 menu items from the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine locations and be sure to collect a stamp to commemorate the occasion! Bring your Festival Passport—featuring your 5 new stamps—to Decadent Delights for a colorful culinary prize offered exclusively at the Festival.

No need to hurry! Complete the Wonderful Walk of Colorful Cuisine at your leisure, and bring your stamped Festival Passport back to Epcot anytime between now and February 24, 2020 to finish your stroll.

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2018 Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road

St. Patrick’s Day revelers will definitely want to enjoy three non-stop days of live music, Irish dance, first-rate food, and fun during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival 2018 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs March 16-18.

Raglan Road 2018 Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival

Here’s the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival complete lineup:

  • Young Dubliners – One of Celtic rock’s hardest working bands, the You Dubliners play hundreds of shows to thousands of fans across the United States and Europe every year. Young Dubliners are known for their hearty rock and Irish-infused live performances.
  • Elevation (U2) — Back by popular demand, this stellar U2 tribute act will play two special nighttime shows March 16 and 17. They appeared at Raglan Road’s Great Irish Hooley last September during U2’s world tour celebrating 30 years of the groundbreaking Joshua Tree album.
  • The Maguires – Called “brilliant” by IrishCentral news, The Maguires traditional Irish family band comprises Emma, 17, on fiddle, flute and whistle; Aoife, 15, on concertina and uilleann pipes; Sean, 12, on bodhrán; and their dad, Philip, on guitar.  Trad favorites and modern tunes combine with syncopated, infectious rhythms sure to wow Mighty Festival crowds.

Raglan Road 2018 St Patricks Mighty Festival

  •  Briste — This inspiring all-female trio includes Emma Robinson (flute, whistle), Joanna Boyle (banjo, vocals) and Alison Crossey (bodhran, guitar). They grew up listening to and playing traditional Irish music, winning numerous awards at County, Ulster and All Ireland competitions, quickly gaining themselves a fine reputation in traditional music circles. Blending together their rich musical backgrounds, Briste creates a fresh and exciting mix of country, folk and Irish traditional music.
  • The Byrne Brothers — An exceptionally talented traditional Irish music family from Donegal. They are Luca, 13 (button accordion); Finn, 11 (banjo, mandolin and whistle); Dempsey, 8, (whistle and bodhran); and father,Tommy (guitar, Uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistles, bagpipes and bodhran). Their show combines exciting traditional Irish tunes with modern dance beats, and they love to interact with every audience.
  • The Raglan Roots Coalition – This edgy house band is known for its soul-rockin’ Celtic bluegrass with hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.
  • Reel Republic – Hailing from the southwest corner of Ireland, Aisling Egan-Sage (fiddle); Liam O’Keefe (box, vocals); and Colin Foley (guitar, vocals) are Reel Republic 2.0, three seriously talented musicians always pushing to make the next gig better than the last.
  • Out the Gap – Niall McIlroy (guitar, ukulele bass, whistles and flute); Deirdre Ni Mheachair (fiddle); and Aidan Byrne (guitar, vox, keys and percussion) make up the pub’s newest house band performing a sweet combination of innate musicianship, beautiful tune playing and fairly outrageous virtuosity.
  • The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform throughout the Mighty Festival. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!

Raglan Road 2018 St Patricks Mighty Festival

Guests can enjoy a mighty selection of beers, spirits and craft cocktails to pair with exceptional pub grub and more elegant Irish fare while musicians and dancers perform on multiple stages, indoors and out, from noon-1:30 a.m. March 16 and 10 a.m. until 1:30 a.m. March 17 and 18.  Mighty Festival guests can accent their Irish holiday attire with complimentary face painting available for up to nine or 10 hours each festival day.  On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest age 18 and older. Reservations can be booked for other festival days by calling 407/938-0300.

The entertainment schedule will be posted at raglanroad.com.

Raglan Road 2018 St Patricks Mighty Festival

Guests can order from Raglan Road’s brunch, lunch, dinner and bar menus that include new dishes like the Guinness-braised pulled pork, apple chutney with pork crackling on a homemade bun, and the handmade gnocchi with seared Georges Bank scallops and crispy pork belly.  Traditionalists can dig into the pub’s loin of bacon and cabbage, the authentic Irish dish of St. Patrick’s Day, plus other pub classics.  Throughout the event, the restaurant’s Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites, as well, including fish and chips.

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Valentine’s Day Special Events at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando

If you are looking for a luxurious way to spend Valentine’s Day, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort has special dining and spa offers for couples.

At , and at Capa, a four-course prix-fixe. menu is offered for USD 155 per person.  Plus, The Spa at Four Seasons is offering special treatments for Valentine’s Day, with complimentary prosecco and chocolates for spa guests. 

Ravello 

Ravello Couple Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Easter Brunch Valentine's Day
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

At Ravello, authentic Italian cuisine is prepared by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, originally from Torino, Italy. Enjoy the warm ambiance of Ravello including the lively open kitchen. 

And to celebrate Valentine’s Day, Ravello is offering a special four-course prix-fixe menu is offered for $75 per person (plus tax and gratuity) that includes:

First Course

• Choice of: Poricini budino parmesan and local artisanal greens salad – mushroom flan, crispy parmesan, local greens, truffle vinaigrette

• Or: Tuna carpaccio caper berries with arugula and pickled vegetables – black pepper seared tuna, blistered caper berries, micro arugula, pickled vegetables 
Second Course

• Housemade spaghetti and polpettine to share – “Lady and the Tramp” single piece housemade spaghetti, housemade meatball to share 
Entree

• Choice of: Crispy halibut brandade with braised spinach and lobster – pan seared halibut, crisp potato brandade, spinach, lobster sauce

• Or: Duck with wilted greens and sweet potato sun choke – duck breast, sautéed greens, sweet potato and sun choke puree, cherry jus 
Dessert

• Nougat glace – wild berry sorbet, milk chocolate cremeux, almond cake

Capa
 

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Capa Valentine's Day
Four Season Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Capa, the Resort’s rooftop level Spanish-inspired steakhouse, is known for its fresh seafood and prime meats. The stunning ambiance in hues of crimson, black and grey features an open kitchen and wood-burning grill, plus an expansive terrace where couples can enjoy views of the nightly Magic Kingdom Park fireworks. Capa was named to Wine Enthusiast magazine’s list of 100 Best Wine Restaurants in the US. 

On Valentine’s Day, Capa is also offering a special four-course prix-fixe menu is offered for $155 per person (plus tax and gratuity) that includes:

First Course

• Choice of: Alcachofa – baby artichokes, oysters, citrus condiment

• Or: Ensalada – fennel salad, orange, chorizo, oats 
Second Course

• Choice of: Viera – seared scallop, celery root, caper and lemon butter sauce, brioche croutons

• Or: Cordoniz – quail, spinach, parsnip puree, saffron hollandaise 
Entree

• Choice of: Pescado – cobia al pil pil, saffron potatoes, tomato, olives, marjoram

• Or: Carne – Lamb rack, Israeli couscous, za’atar yogurt, smoked pinenuts

• Or: Tomahawk – Tomahawk for two, grilled asparagus, preserved lemon, Capa steak sauce 
Dessert

• Vanilla yogurt Bavarois, citrus, champagne, berries

To make reservations for either of these special prix-fixe dinners at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando, call (407) 313-6161.

Have a Couples Day at The Spa
 

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Valentine's Day
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at The Spa at Four Seasons. On Wednesday, February 14, 2018, all who receive a treatment between 8:00 am and 9:00 pm will receive a complimentary glass of prosecco and special valentine truffles from local chocolatier Norman Love Confections. 

Sweethearts can treat their honey to an indulgent Healing Honey Treatment, featuring a massage with local Winter Garden Honey Farm honey.  Those experiencing the Healing Honey Treatment on Valentine’s Day will receive a small bottle of the signature honey. 


In addition, couples who experience a 50-minute Couples Massage on February 14 will receive a complimentary Luscious Lips enhancement to ensure the sweetest, smoothest kiss. The couple will also receive a complimentary lip gloss from the signature line Kaplan MD.
For the ultimate couples spa day, consider a Daycation Duo. Recharge, renew, relax and refresh together, the perfect recipe for romance.

The Couple’s Daycation is $570 and includes a $35 per person lunch credit at PB&G, plus fitness classes for the day, two 80 minute Spa treatments, and use of the Spa’s beautifully appointed locker rooms equipped with steam room, experience showers, whirlpools and full vanity area.

To reserve a Spa appointment this Valentine’s Day, contact The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando by calling (407) 313-6160.
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A Step Behind The Walls At Disney Springs

DISCLOSURE: I was an invited guest of guest of The Patina Restaurant Group and Walt Disney World to tour the four new dining venues opening at Disney Springs, but all opinions (and exclamation points) are my own.

2017 Behind the Walls at Disney Springs 2017

It is always an exciting experience to step behind a construction wall at Walt Disney World, and I had the chance to peek in at the four new dining locations opening soon at Disney Springs.

Let’s take a step back to October 2017 when Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group, shared a glimpse at how each location will tie into the Disney Springs storyline of a restored Florida Waterfront town.

“…we will be opening a trattoria named Maria & Enzo’s, as well as Enzo’s Hideaway, a separate restaurant in what were said to be rum-running tunnels, which is destined to become a local favorite,” said Valenti. “They are inspired by the cuisines of Sicily and Rome, the Italian family, and the best of Italian modern cooking.”

What is really great about this connecting group of restaurants is that each location will have its own distinct menu as well as price point. This is sure to become a ‘one-stop’ dining destination at Disney Springs!

Pizza Ponte Disney Springs Logo
PRG

Pizza Ponte, now in soft openings, is a fast-casual concept and the perfect place for a quick bite serving pastries, pizza, Italian sandwiches, and espresso. Pastry specialties include Bomboloni (Italian doughnuts) Sfoglia di Riso (pastry with rice cream) and Tiramisu. Savory items include signature Triangolo (stuffed pizza bread) sandwiches, Porchetta (roast pork) and Pizza al Taglio, Sicilian-style pizza by the slice. There is dining available inside of this location, but it is also a great place to pop in to take your food to enjoy outdoors.

Maria and Enzos Disney Springs Mural and Globe
PRG

Maria & Enzo’s is an Italian trattoria set in the town’s storied abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s, now transformed into a restaurant. The dining room is open and airy, featuring 50-foot ceilings with views of Lake Buena Vista. The restaurant interiors showcase artifacts that reference air travel of the time, with maps and historic flight paths. The menu is inspired by Sicily, with a range of family-friendly dishes – Arancini di Carne (rice balls stuffed with meat), Melanzane Parmigiana (eggplant Parmesan) – and handmade pastas – Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with crab), ‘Ncasciata al Forno (Sicilian baked pasta) – served tableside. Other highlights include fresh fish, richly flavored steaks and chops. Guests will also be treated to stunning views of Lake Buena Vista under a fantastic mural as they dine.

Disney Springs Enzos Hideaway Grafiti Wall
PRG

Then under Maria & Enzo’s, in the actual tunnels under Disney Springs, is Enzo’s Hideaway which is a speakeasy inspired by Roman aperitivo bars, located in the storied rum-runner tunnels that adjoin Maria & Enzo’s. Inspired by Florida’s true history of rum running, Enzo’s Hideaway will pour Prohibition-era cocktails at its Tunnel Bar and serve a casual menu of hearty Roman dishes, such as the city’s legendary Bucatini alla Carbonara (hollow spaghetti with creamy egg and pancetta sauce) and Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe (square-cut spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper). I could spend all day taking in every detail of the graffiti wall!

The Edison Mural Disney Springs
PRG

The shining gem of this group of dining locations can be found either with its main entrance or a secret tunnel passageway from Enzo’s Hideaway, which is The Edison, which will be opening with a sold out New Year’s Eve Bash. The Edison is a lavish “Industrial Gothic” –style restaurant, bar and nighttime destination, The Edison is famous for exceptionally good classic American food, craft cocktails and live entertainment including cabaret and music. With multiple levels and a performance space, The Edison will be open for lunch and dinner. The menu is executed by Chef PJ Finneran, and consists of contemporary American fare such as Pork Belly Pops with a chile-brown sugar glaze, Crispy Fried Chicken with cast iron buttermilk biscuits and its signature The Edison Burger, a juicy combination of house-ground sirloin, shortrib and brisket, topped with Cabot cloth-bound cheddar, onion rings, smoked bacon, house pickles, lettuce, tomato, special sauce and served with hand-cut fries. The Edison’s beverage program places a huge focus on artfully crafted cocktails, interesting beer and wines and house-made punches, made to serve from two to 10 guests. The main room features a dance floor and stage, where each night The Edison will feature an eclectic lineup of live entertainment including musicians, aerialists and dancers.

Reservations are currently not available for these three dining locations at Disney Springs, but we expect them to be available soon.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner At The Four Seasons Orlando

If you are a serious foodie, you won’t want to miss the chance to attend the James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner on Saturday, December 9, 2017, at 6:30 pm hosted by the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.

Ravello Restaurant Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner 2017
Photo: Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World

Inside of the Resort’s acclaimed Ravello restaurant, Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi and Executive Pastry Chef Rabii Saber will host the dinner to be joined by:

  • Paula DaSilva, chef de cuisine at Burlock Coast at The Ritz-Carlton, Fort Lauderdale, and of Hell’s Kitchen fame. DaSilva was a Best Chefs in America semi-finalist in the 2012 James Beard Awards.
  • Kathleen Blake, chef/owner from The Rusty Spoon in Orlando. Blake is a 2013 and 2015 James Beard Award Nominee in the Best Chef of the South, a 2013 Best Chefs in America – Southern Region, and was nominated for both Golden Whisk and Community Service Awards by Women Chefs & Restauranteurs.
  • Dean Max, chef/owner of DJM Restaurants, a collection of seven restaurants in the US and Caribbean. Max was a semi-finalist for the Best Chefs in America in the 2011, 2010 and 2009 James Beard Awards.
  • James Boyce, chef/owner of Cotton Row in Huntsville, Alabama.  Boyce has a 2002 James Beard Award nomination for “Best Chefs of the Southwest” and is a two-time Mobil Five Star Award recipient.

The six-course James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner dinner menu includes:

Course 1, presented by Chef Fabrizio Schenardi

  • Appetisers: crudo and oyster station, house-curend lonza and capicolla, Italian and Spanish cheeses, pickled vegetables
  • Passed butternut squash tarts with sage, speck, jalapenos and caciocavallo cheese
  • Ficattole with spinach, artichokes, lamb meatballs and mint garlic oil

Course 2, presented by Chef Dean Max:

  • Charred octopus with ‘nduja, clam and pepper broth

Course 3, presented by Chef Kathleen Blake:

  • Chestnut cavatelli with roasted beets, bitter greens and turtle creek goat cheese

Course 4, presented by Chef Paula DaSilva:

  • Roasted open blue cobia, crispy yucca, moqueca-style stew

Course 5, presented by Chef James Boyce:

  • Cider braised Snake River Farms wagyu beef short ribs, white truffle pollard grits, black trumpet mushrooms and sauce bordelaise

Course 6, presented by Chef Rabii Saber:

  • Nougat glace, with chestnut, fruits of the forest, Valrhona Bahibe 46 percent milk chocolate

James Beard Award Celebrity Chef Dinner At The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort
Photo: James Beard Foundation

This phenomenal dinner experience, including with wine pairings, is available for $235 per person (includes tax and gratuity). Tickets must be purchased in advance using this link.

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Magical Dining Month at Walt Disney World

DISCLOSURE: I just wanted to let everyone know that this post is in no way sponsored by Visit Orlando. I just really enjoy Magical Dining Month. I am just really excited to share that Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Restaurants are participating this year.

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

For the first time select Walt Disney World Resort Hotel Restaurants are participating in Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, and I couldn’t be more excited to share my experience!

If you aren’t familiar with it, Visit Orlando’s Magical Dining Month, happening from now until October 1st, gives locals and visitors to Orlando the opportunity to dine at over 100 restaurants around the City Beautiful with a prix fixe menu that only costs $35. The best part of the deal is that one dollar from of each meal goes locally to support Freedom Ride and BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation.

This year there are six participating Walt Disney World Resort hotel restaurants, and they include: (The links actually show the prix fixe menu offered at each location)

I had the opportunity to dine at The Turf Club Bar and Grill at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort with my family & friends, and we had a fantastic meal!

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

We tried to order a few things so we could try as many dishes as possible, and the portion sizes are no smaller than they normally are so it was really easy to share.

Let’s look at what we ordered!

Appetizers

The Turf Club Grilled Romaine Salad

lightly grilled hearts of romaine, roasted tomatoes, balsamic vinegar glaze, Caesar dressing, and croutons

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Classical French Onion Soup

beef broth, julienne onions, Melted Swiss, and Gruyère cheeses with croutons

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Entrees

Pan Seared Corvina

lemon risotto and garlic-basil cream reduction topped with a fresh tomato relish

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Grilled New York Strip Steak

hand-cut rosemary Parmesan fries and béarnaise sauce

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Desserts

Chocolate-Espresso Torte

with raspberry sauce and vanilla-port wine ice cream

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Madagascar Vanilla Bean Crème Brulee

fresh fruit and butter breton cri that is gluten free

Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Turf Club Visit Orlando Magical Dining Month 2017

Know Before You Go To Walt Disney World Resort Restaurant Magical Dining Month:

  • You still need to make an Advanced Dining Reservation using the Walt Disney World website, calling 407-WDW-DINE, or by using the My Disney Experience App. When making your reservation, you will not need to note that you will be ordering from the Magical Dining Month prix fixe menu.
  • If you have allergies or dietary restrictions know that no substitutions can be made to the menu, so talk with your server to make sure that the menu fits with your needs.
  • Applicable sales tax, gratuities, and beverages are not included in the Magical Dining Month prix fixe menu cost.
  • An 18% service charge is added for parties of six (6) or more.
  • The prix fixe menu is not available to those utilizing any Disney Dining Plan.
  • No discounts can be applied to the Magical Dining Month menu, and while there are great discounts available for Annual Passholders and Tables in Wonderland card holders they cannot be applied to your check unless they are additions to the prix fixe menu and are charged to a separate check which takes extra time to complete which is extremely time consuming.

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New Show, Brew, and Bites at Raglan Road

Disclosure: I was invited out by Raglan Road to see experience the new show with Zoe and to try some new bites in exchange for my review. All opinions and exclamation points within this post are my own.

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant at Disney Springs has always been one of our favorite stops for a great bite to eat and fun, and this summer they are debuting a new show and menu items that you won’t want to miss.

The new show is called ‘Rhythms of Raglan’, presented at no extra charge, is a 90-minute live spectacle of Irish music and dance featuring talented musicians and award-winning Irish Dancers that even lets the littlest of dancers take center stage.

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

The show itself is fantastic and was produced in Ireland, exported to Raglan Road, & is directed by David Hayes of Riverdance and “The Voice” Ireland edition with lead choreographer Ciaran Keating.

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

But the highlight of the show is when the little dancers get to take to the stage to try their hand at traditional Irish dancing. After the show begins, the Raglan Road dancers make their way around the restaurant to see which children are interested (and to offer words of encouragement to those who might be a little shy) in participating and to get their names for a fun surprise. The children get a chance to be on stage to dance with the dancers and musical performers, and afterwards are presented with a certificate and sticker. What an awesome souvenir!

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

The ‘Rhythms of Raglan Road’ show runs daily (including weekends) from 4 pm -5:30 pm. The show also is part of the Rollicking Raglan Brunch entertainment that runs each Saturday & Sunday from 12 – 3 p.m (so you can see it early or at 4 pm on Saturday and Sunday).

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

And as part of our experience we got to try two new dishes and a new craft beer that will be debuting at Raglan Road before this year’s Great Irish Hooley (you can see the entertainment schedule here & make table reservations here)!

Boaring Burger

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

This is a grilled wild boar burger with port and pear chutney, crispy onions, garlic and herb aioli, Cashel blue cheese, and arugula on a potato bun.

This was my first time trying a wild boar burger, and it was nothing like I expected! I was expecting the boar to be gamey, but it was a touch sweet which made the sweet and tangy toppings sing.

If you love a loaded burger, the ‘Boaring Burger’ should be on your list of things to try!

Gnocchi sea, gnocchi do

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

This irresistable dish is a handmade potato gnocchi with seared Georges Bank scallops, crispy pork belly, tomato and brood beans with a white wine butter sauce.

So I am going to be REAL here…I totally convinced Zoe that she wouldn’t like this dish so I could eat her’s…Does that make me a bad mom? Sure. Was it worth it? Totally!!!

The sweet Georges Bank scallops cut the buttery goodness of the potato gnocchi making it a lighter dish than you would expect.

Blagger – Organic Blonde Lager

Rhythms of Raglan Road Disney Springs Walt Disney World

Once again Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant has teamed up with Orlando Brewing to created a new craft brew that can be bought by the pint or as part of a flight.

I am not a gigantic beer drinker, but the Blagger was really refreshing and lovely.

The Blagger is light in color and low in bitterness at only 6 IBU. Made with organic malts, organic Hallertau hops and organic yeast, this brew has a crisp finish reminiscent of a dry sparkling wine.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Capa Hosts Louis Roederer Champagne Dinner

To help celebrate the third anniversary of the Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney World, the rooftop Capa restaurant will host a special Louis Roederer Champagne Dinner on August 3, 2017. beginning at 6pm.

Four Seasons Orlando Resort at Walt Disney WorldCapa Sign Louis Roederer Champagne Dinner

The five-course dinner will feature rare pairings, including Cristal and Cristal Rose.

Capa Hosts Louis Roederer Champagne Dinner Menu

Amuse Bouche
Zanahoria PB&J Foie Terrine Tetilla Cheese Puff Fingerlings, Smoked Crema, Caviar Champagne Louis Roederer – Brut Premier NV

Primero
Lobster | Turnip | Ponzu Vinaigrette | Lardo
Champagne Louis Roederer – Brut Premier NV

Segundo
Oxtail Consommé | Yuzu | A5 wagyu | Artichoke
Champagne Louis Roederer – Brut Nature 2009 (zero dosage)

Tercero
Salmon | Burnt Leek | Champagne Sabayon
Champagne Louis Roederer – Brut Rosé 2011

Entrante Braised Veal | Potato | Truffle
Cristal – Brut 2009

Postre
Turron Helado | Apricot | Currant | Pistachio
Cristal – Brut Rosé 2007

If you haven’t had the opportunity to dine at Capa, this is an excellent way to experience the romantic, rooftop restaurant that offers fantastic views of the nightly fireworks at the Magic Kingdom and Epcot!

Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Capa

The cost for this five-course celebratory Champagne dinner is $225 per person and reservations required and can be made by calling  407-313-6161.

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Four Seasons Resort Orlando Offers Two Easter Brunch Options

If you are still looking for the perfect place for Easter Brunch, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort has two options you will want to check out!

Ravello

Ravello Couple Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Easter Brunch
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

The Resort’s modern Italian restaurant Ravello will present a lavish Easter buffet.

The menu includes a wide array of offerings, ranging from a raw bar/seafood station to an antipasti and salad bar, a carving station with lavender honey glazed ham and braised lamb shank, and a hot entrée station with grilled salmon with lemon butter and capers, garlic marinated grilled chicken, and much more.

Classic brunch favourites will be offered as well, such as beer-braised brisket hash, lobster benedict, eggs made to order, a waffle station with choice of toppings, raspberry Nutella-stuffed French toast, and much more.

Guests with a sweet tooth will be delighted with the dessert station that includes mixed berry crème brulee, peanut butter chocolate pie, mixed berry truffle cinnamon coffee tiramisu, assorted macarons and more.

A special children’s buffet will be offered including items such as “ants on a log” and “pigs in a blanket,” tater tots, chicken fingers, PB&J sandwiches, chocolate dipped Rice Krispie treats, miniature fun-fetti cupcakes, and assorted Easter candies. 

Ravello Easter brunch will be offered from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm for $105 per adult and $45 per child ages 5-12. 

Plancha

Plancha Four Seasons Resort Orlando at the Walt Disney World Resort
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

For a brunch menu with a Cuban twist, celebrate Easter Sunday at Plancha, the Resort’s Cuban American restaurant.

Located at the Tranquilo Golf Club clubhouse, the lakeside restaurant offers a three-course brunch including bottomless Mimosas and Bloody Marys from an extravagant Bloody Mary Bar.

The appetizer buffet includes artisanal meats and cheeses, assorted salads with fresh herbs from a living wall garden fresh fruits, smoked salmon and bagels, breakfast pastries and much more.

Entrée choices include traditional brunch items such as eggs benedict with truffle hollandaise, very-berry French toast, shrimp omelet, chicken and white cheddar waffles, and oatmeal pancakes in addition to Cuban favourites such as el Cubano sandwich, the Plancha Burger with a chorizo and beef patty, churrasco with yucca fries, and Sunday fish with a tropical fruit salsa.

The children’s buffet offers kids’ favourites such as pancakes, chicken tenders, mac n’ cheese, mini burger, grilled salmon, cookies and fruit. 

Plancha brunch is offered every Sunday from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm for $68 per adult and $20 per child ages 5-12. 

Reservations for Ravello and Plancha at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World can be made by calling (407) 313-6161.

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George Miliotes Wine Pairing Dinner At Ravello

George Miliotes Four Seasons Resort Orlando Winebar George  Ravello

Four Seasons Resort Orlando will welcome Master Sommelier George Miliotes, owner of Wine Bar George opening at Disney Springs, for a special wine pairing dinner that is bound to be a memorable evening.  The dinner will be held on March 9, 2017 at 6:30 pm on the lovely terrace of the resort’s Ravello restaurant.

“We are looking forward to welcoming George Miliotes for a fun and informative dinner at Ravello,” says Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi. “His new wine bar will surely be an asset, and will further enhance Orlando’s positioning as a destination ideal for food and wine aficionados.”

Miliotes, one of only 230 worldwide industry professionals certified by the Court of Master Sommeliers, is opening Wine Bar George at Disney Springs.  Wine Bar George will be the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in the Sunshine State. The menu will feature a range of varietals, vintages and prices, and a large selection of wines by the glass.

“I’m thrilled to share my enthusiasm and passion for wine with each and every guest, and look forward to a wonderful evening at Ravello,” notes Miliotes, who is sourcing wines not typically offered on the Ravello wine list for this exclusive event.

The five-course menu for the George Miliotes special event is as follows:

Course 1

  • Veal liver mousse, apple marmellata and balsamic gelatin
  • Antinori Vermentino

    Course 2

  • Red trout and roe, fingerling potato, green bean, quail egg and pickled vinaigrette
  • Princip Fruilano or Ceretto Arnies “Blange”

    Course 3

  • Bucatini pasta “paglia e fieno,” gorgonzola dolce, walnut, kale and sage brown butter
  • Medici Ermite Lambrusco (dry sparkling red)

    Course 4

  • Barbera wine-braised short rib, Acquerello rice “budino,” golden raisin and red mustard
  • Poderi Elia Barbara di Asti DOCG

    Course 5

  • Strawberry citrus granita, candied orange and warm biscotti
  • Perlina Moscato

    The menu is $175 per person, price includes tax and gratuity. Reservations: 407 313 6161.

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Muppets Fun at PizzeRizzo at Hollywood Studios

Muppets PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Muppets Caricatures

PizzeRizzo at Disney’s Hollywood Studios is the fun new Muppets themed quick service restaurant located in the building Pizza Planet previously occupied. While I haven’t yet had the chance to eat at PizzeRizzo, I did get the opportunity the other day to explore some of the awesome Muppets details throughout the restaurant. I ducked in to avoid the rain while waiting between fast passes and this may be my new favorite quick service restaurant in Hollywood Studios even without eating there! Check out some of these great Muppets throwbacks, plus some other things you may just notice from other areas of the park.

Like many establishments, PizzeRizzo attempted to frame their first dollar, but Pepe left an I.O.U. for Rizzo apparently needing some cash.

Muppets PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
PizzeRizzo framed I.O.U.

The ordering area and seating areas both upstairs and down are now huge. I kind of forgot to get a picture since we were trying to escape before the downpour started, but it is gigantic improvement over what it was when it was Pizza Planet with the switchbacks in the ordering area and with the games taking up a big part of the restaurant. Here’s a picture that just shows a portion of the lobby where you order to give you an idea of the size.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
PizzeRizzo ordering area

Much of the time I spent exploring was in the upstairs, which can be reached by really cool backlit stairs in the center of the dining room or by an elevator just to the side. Upstairs is also where the banquet room is located, where they were playing YMCA when we were there. The outdoor seating area is also amazing. It looks down over the Muppets Courtyard and what remains of New York Street and the construction of what will be Star Wars and Toy Story Lands.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Banquet room

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Upstairs seating

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Outside seating

For Disney fans, and those who miss the Streets of America, a piece of it survived and hangs proudly on the wall in PizzeRizzo. Another fun nod to Disney history, and tying in to the New York theme of the L.A. based pizza restaurant, is a picture of the Unisphere from where the 1964 World’s Fair was held.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Walt Disney subway sign

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Unisphere

Rizzo even likes to have fun with his trash cans and recycling bins in his restaurant. These fun sayings are found, some repeated, throughout PizzeRizzo, making taking your trash out more fun.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Recycling is a gouda for the Earth!

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
I’m trying to run a business here! Pick up after yourself!

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Can it, youse guys!

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Clean it up! Your ma don’t work here.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Don’t fuggedaboutit toss your trash!

My favorite details though come from the bulletin board beside the banquet room. Many of the Muppets are advertising their services with fliers and business cards and they are priceless. I have two shots of the entire boards that I suggest you zoom in on and peruse, but I’ve also included a few of my choice faves to share. I’ll let you explore some of the others to discover on your own so as not to take away all the fun of finding all of them.

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Bulletin board 1

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Bulletin board 2

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Tossing Penguin Tuxedo Rentals and Pyrotechnics by Harry

PizzeRizzo Disney's Hollywood Studios Walt Disney World
Mahna Mahna Choir – good luck not getting that one stuck in your head from the first episode of the Muppet Show

There are so many other great puns and nods to New York and the Muppets and just pop culture throughout PizzeRizzo. I highly recommend that you check out this fantastic remodel and I hope that I get to eat there soon as I’ve heard good things about the antipasto salad. The space is great with tons of seating inside and out, and on both floors with accessibility. This may be my new place to hideout and spend time in between fast passes because they play great music too (think Rat Pack, Rosemary Clooney, Perry Como, etc.). Although I would also kind of love to hear the Mice Girls sing some of these hits from this record.

Mice Girls
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Valentine’s Day At The Four Seasons Resort Orlando

If you are looking to spend Valentine’s Day in a luxurious way, consider experiencing the wonderful restaurants or relaxing spa at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort.

Their Ravello and Capa Restaurants are each offering delicious prix fixe menus, while The Spa has special offers for couples.

Ravello at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Ravello Couple Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Ravello has quickly become one of our go-to places for a fantastic meal out! The restaurant’s authentic Italian cuisine is prepared by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, originally from Torino, Italy. I love taking a peek into their lively open kitchen.

For Valentines’s day they are offering a four course meal for $75 per person (not including tax or gratuity) that looks delicious!

  • First course: Focaccia Pugliese, tomato, mozzarella and herbs
  • Second course: Speck, burrata and asparagus flat bread, roasted cherry tomato thyme, extra virgin olive oil; or, oyster and eggplant, white balsamic gelee, salmon roe, watercress
  • Third course: Veal medallion, red beet tortellacci, kobocha and caciocavallo cheese, black truffle sauce; or, pan seared “Florida hog” snapper, lobster-chives mashed potatoes, lemon caper sauce, and warm cauliflower-sun dried tomato salad
  • Fourth course: Rotolo dolce, Florida strawberry, crème fraiche

Capa at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

Capa Couple Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

If you haven’t had the chance to dine at Capa, the Resort’s rooftop level Spanish-inspired steakhouse, you are missing out!

Known for its fresh seafood and prime meats, the stunning ambiance in hues of crimson, black and grey features an open kitchen and wood-burning grill, plus an expansive terrace where guests can enjoy views of the nightly Magic Kingdom Park fireworks.

Capa was named to Wine Enthusiast magazine’s list of 100 Best Wine Restaurants in the US.

And exclusively for Valentines’s day, you can enjoy a four course meal for $95 per person (not including tax or gratuity).

  • First course: Sopa – lobster bisque, saffron crème fraiche, tortas; or, ensalada – endive, honeydew, sorrel and mint
  • Second course: Vieira – scallops crudo, tomatillo salsa verde, blood oranges; or, alcachofa – artichoke confit, black truffle, wagyu beef
  • Third course: Pescado – branzino, fennel, orange and burnt leek vinaigrette; or, carne – prime beef tenderloin, brown butter-polenta croquettes, green beans and black garlic; or, for an additional USD 30 per person, opt for the tomahawk for two, served with rioja sauce and twice baked potato with smoked crème fraiche and caviar
  • Fourth course: Fundido de Fresa y Chocolate, Bahibe milk chocolate cremeux, strawberry ice cream

Both menus will only be available on February 14th, and to make reservations call (407) 313-6161.

Couples Sweet Retreat at The Spa at the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

For couples who like to unwind and relax with their sweetheart, The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Orlando offers a luxurious Valentine’s Day package for two to enjoy.

From Saturday, February 11 to Tuesday, February 14, 2017, connect with a couple’s massage performed by one of The Spa’s expert team of therapists in a beautiful candlelit and rose-petal-strewn couple’s suite. Each couple’s massage is set to beautifully soothing ambient music while intoxicating aroma-therapeutic notes of jasmine, rose and ylang ylang essential oils fill the air.  Two glasses of rosé to sip, and special Valentine truffles from local chocolatier Norman Love Confections are also included.

This couple’s experience is $385 for a 50 minute massage, $545 for an 80 minute massage or $715 for a 110 minute massage. Couples who reserve 80 minute or 110 minute massages may enjoy complimentary day access to the Resort’s pools, including the adult-only Oasis Pool.

Outdoor lounges Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World

The Spa is also offering a “Tennis Love Match” special where couples can enjoy a tennis lesson for two for USD 100, plus an hour of complimentary court time, available February 11 to February 14, 2017. Lessons are held on the Resort’s Har-Tru tennis courts by tennis professional Alain Labrecque, in partnership with PBI International.

To reserve a Spa appointment or tennis lesson, contact The Spa at 407 313 6160.

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Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World Pizzerizzo Allergy Menu
Pizzerizzo Allergy Menu

Dining with a food allergy can be very tricky and a source of stress when you are traveling. However Walt Disney World has quite a number of options available to those with a food allergy, dietary restriction, or lifestyle choice for their diet. I wanted to share a few of the things that you can do ahead of time to help you in your planning if you do have a food allergy or sensitivity to make your dining plans easier (and safer).

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World

With Walt Disney World being one of the most visited destinations in the world, they see millions of guests annually. Accordingly, they have started to recognize that many of us have food allergies and/or dietary sensitivities and restrictions.

The process starts when you are making reservations or going to a dining location, because you will always want to make the cast members aware of your allergies or dietary restrictions so they can accommodate your needs in the best way possible.

If you are calling Disney Dining to make a reservation, let them know you have an allergy so that when you check-in the host or hostess can easily mark your table as having a special dining request. Or if you book a dining reservation online, simply check that boxes that best fit your dietary needs. But don’t worry if you forget to do either of those, because you can always let them know when you arrive at the restaurant. You can also contact the Special Dietary Requests Line for further assistance at 407-824-5967.

If your allergy isn’t listed in the most common ones online or on the My Disney Experience app, there is an “other” box that can be selected and you can explain the specifics to the server when you arrive.

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World Advance Dining Reservation Food allergy question

In the last few years Walt Disney World’s restaurants, both table service and counter service locations, have started to provide guests with what they call Allergy Menus. These menus address the most common food allergies, which include: milk (dairy), corn, egg, wheat (gluten), peanut, soy, shellfish, fish, and tree nuts.

Here is an example of the allergy menu I received on our last visit to Narcoosee’s.

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World Narcoossee's Allergy Menu
Narcoossee’s Allergy Menu

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World Narcoossee's Allergy Menu Back 2016
Narcoossee’s Allergy Menu

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World Narcoossee's Allergy Menu 2016 desserts
Narcoossee’s Allergy Dessert Menu

Another option at the restaurants of Walt Disney World is to speak with a chef if you don’t see any choices that meet your needs on the Allergy Menu.

When the chef comes to your table, they will ask you more about your food allergies or sensitivities to better discuss all the options you have at their dining location.

If you are dining at a buffet, the chef can walk you through the line and tell you exactly what you can and can’t have. At a table service restaurant if you see something on the regular menu that you’d like, but has something you can’t have in it you can ask your chef, and more often than not, they can tweak it for you. The chefs are great and like to be creative and will even sometimes make completely off the menu custom dishes if you don’t see something to your liking on the Allergy Menu.

It never hurts to ask! Always make sure you let them know what you like, too. My friends and I have been amazed with some of the dishes the chefs have come up with when we let them run wild with a little freedom.

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World food allergy gluten free rolls
Gluten free rolls

I recommend looking at menus online before you make your reservations to get an idea of what the restaurant offers to make sure they have something you may be able to eat, keeping in mind that items are subject to change. Some of Allergy Menus will be more extensive depending on the restaurant.

When you are On the Go, there are tons of great snacks being added to the parks and resorts for guests with allergies all the time.

Throughout the resort you will find snacks ranging from fresh fruit to other vegan and gluten free items readily available in the Snacks with Character line that was recently introduced.

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World food allergy snacks Snacks with Character cookies
Snacks with Character – Cookies

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World food allergy snacks Snacks with Character Cinnamon Bun Bar
Snacks with Character – Cinnamon Bun Bar

Dining with a Food Allergy at Walt Disney World food allergy snacks Snacks with Character pretzels and cookies
Snacks with Character – Pretzels

If you have a sweet tooth AND food allergies or dietary restrictions, a visit to Erin McKenna’s Bakery NYC at Disney Springs should be in your plans. All of the treats in this special bakery are nut free, vegan, Kosher, and gluten free. I’m allergic to pistachios and am gluten free, and I am usually restricted in what I can have…but not here. It is amazing!

The bottom line is don’t be afraid to eat at Disney restaurant because of a food allergy or if you’re vegan or have a food sensitivity. I promise that whatever dietary sensitivity you may have, in the 45 plus years Walt Disney World has been operating there’s a 99.99% chance that they’ve handled it successfully multiple times over.

Doing a little homework before you arrive never hurts, but Walt Disney World will always do their best since your safety is their number one priority during your visit.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

Planet Hollywood Observatory launches a new menu into orbit at the Orlando Flagship Location

Burgers and Sandwiches by Guy Fieri, Florida Craft Brews, and Colossal Appetizers Among New Offerings

The Planet Hollywood Observatory will be opening later this fall at Disney Springs with a menu full of familiar favorites, burgers and sandwiches by Guy Fieri, Florida Craft Brews, gigantic appetizers, and over-the-top sweets.

“We’ve spent an enormous amount of time developing new menu offerings for Planet Hollywood Observatory and striking a balance with keeping our favorites in place,” said Robert Earl, Founder and Chairman, Planet Hollywood International. “We’re excited to offer even more options for our guests, ranging from appealing starters, to light and healthy salads, to indulgent steak and lobster—and everything in between. And they really must save room for dessert—I always do!”

Of the new and returning favorites, here’s a look at what you’ll find once Planet Hollywood Observatory reopens!

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

Fans will embrace the return of classics such as World Famous Chicken Crunch with Creole mustard sauce playfully plated in a chicken-shaped dish.

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

Nachos Grande return with piled high with chipotle chicken, cheese and black bean sauce, cruda salsa verde, pico de gallo, queso fresco and sour cream.

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

Of the six featured burgers from Guy Fieri, the award-winning Bacon Mac-N-Cheese with applewood smoked bacon, six-cheese mac-n-cheese, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, crispy onion straws, Fieri’s signature Donkey Sauce, and garlic-buttered brioche bun looks crazy!

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

The Lobster Feast Fra Diavolo is a spaghetti favorite served in a whole lobster shell and a Sesame Ginger Salmon with cilantro rice is one of eight gussied-up specialty offerings.

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

Healthy options for guests include a selection of five fresh salads like the Citrus Kale, a combination of kale, julienned broccoli, slivered Brussels sprouts and cabbage, feta, grapefruit, oranges, cranberries, sunflowers seeds, agave dressing; and Spinach & Berries with candied walnuts, bleu cheese crumbles and balsamic vinaigrette.

Planet Hollywood Observatory Menu Highlights Disney Springs

For a sweet finish “Hand-Dipped and Whimsical Milkshakes” include Chocolate Comet and Strawberry Borealis. The dessert menu is filled with goodies such as the Cosmic Cream Challenge, a blind tasting of 12 flavors of house-made ice creams and sorbets; Planet Melt Down, a chocolate hardshell dome, melted tableside by hot chocolate sauce to reveal double chocolate fudge cake, fresh strawberries and whipped cream; and Brownie Sundae Martini, 12 decadent chunks of freshly baked brownies layered with six scoops of vanilla and chocolate ice cream with toppings.

After seeing these pictures I’m even more excited to give Planet Hollywood Observatory a try!Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram

Celebrate Yelloween at STK Orlando

STK Orlando Yelloween Disney Springs WDW

Celebrate Yelloween at STK Orlando

If you are looking for a fun Halloween without having to head into Downtown Orlando, why not try something new! STK Orlando at Disney Springs is hosting their first Halloween event called “Yelloween”.

The “Yelloween” fun starts at 8 pm, and for two hours you’ll enjoy champagne toasts, an open bar, drink specials from 10 pm to midnight, little bites, haunting tunes from a live DJ, performers and interactive performers as you party on the rooftop!

Tickets are $50 and can be purchased in advance online.Follow us for more updates: Facebooktwitteryoutubetumblrinstagram