Tag: disney restaurants

Review: Move Over Burgers — We’re Trying D-Luxe Burger’s Buffalo Fried Chicken in Disney World!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 27, 2020

Disney Springs kicked off its phased reopening last week. While we originally saw third-party stores and restaurants open back up to guests, a few Disney-owned locations opened their doors again today.

D-Luxe Burger

We’ve already given you a look at what’s hoppin’ at the World of Disney and now we’re taking you with us to grab a burger, fries, and a shake at the reopened D-Luxe Burger!

D-Luxe Burger is a great place if you’re looking for a quick meal or snack. But, it’s also AWESOME because the restaurant rolls out unique burgers (Pizza Burger, we’re looking at you!) along with classic meals.

Waiting In Line

Before you walk into the restaurant, there are distancing markers on the ground to separate parties from each another.

D-Luxe Burger Markers

D-Luxe is currently accepting Mobile Order ONLY — unless you have an allergy — in which case you can order inside. After you tap the “I’m here” button in the My Disney Experience app, you wait outside behind physical distance markers. Once your order is ready, a Cast Member will direct you into the restaurant.

D-Luxe Mobile Order

While we were there, we encountered a small exception to the outdoor queue. Cast Members let us wait under the patio cover as it started pouring rain — but we still had to remain at least six feet apart from other guests.

D-Luxe Cast Member

When our order was ready, we headed in!

Picking Up Your Order

They gave us a station number were our food was waiting for us. Each station had napkins, utensils, and packaged condiments.

Food Pick-Up Station

For signature sauces, you can order them in the app or request them from a Cast Member but ONLY garlic ranch and curry ketchup were available during our visit. A Cast Member kindly brought out the extra sauce in a no-touch basket.

No=Touch Sauces

We noticed that if you order a bottled drink, it will be served alongside your food at the pickup station. But if you ordered a fountain beverage, Cast Members will assist you at the machines.

Drink Station

If you order booze or a shake, your bag will have a sticker that says that your order is unfinished.

D-Luxe Order

You’ll head to a separate counter to pick up your specialty beverage.

Seating

Similar to the rest of Disney Springs, Guests and Cast Members are both required to wear masks, but guests may remove their masks to eat or drink.

Limited Spaced Tables

The tables were separated at least six feet apart from one another, and there were some spots that were sectioned off for the time being.

Unavailable Table

The outdoor seating was increased to allow more guests to grab tables at a safe distance.

Outdoor Seating

Overall, the pickup procedure was streamlined and we could tell they aimed to reduce contact that could commonly occur at a traditional mobile-order pickup.

Eats

While we were there, we ordered the Buffalo Chicken Sandwich, the Plant-based Pacific Island Burger, some of those delish Fresh-cut Fries, and the Strawberry Gelato Shake.

D-Luxe Spread

The Buffalo Chicken Sandwich was A+!!! It was a Fried Chicken Breast topped with Buffalo-Ranch Sauce, Blue Cheese Crumbles, Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato for $12.49.

Open Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

The chicken in this sandwich was fried to perfection and it was a really good-sized piece too! We loved the way that the flavors came together to give us that classic buffalo chicken profile. Our only complaint was we could’ve used a tad more buffalo sauce. Also, if you’re not a blue cheese fan, order it without! You can definitely taste the blue cheese!

Buffalo Chicken Sandwich

Next up is the Plant-based Pacific Island Burger. It was made from a Plant-based Patty with Cabbage and Mushroom Ragout, Mango Salsa, Lettuce, and Dill Pickles on Plant-based Parker House Roll with the same price of $12.49.

Plant-based Burger

We’re big meat-eaters so we thought this sammie was just fine. We probably wouldn’t get it again, but it might be a real hit with someone on a plant-based diet! After the beautiful harmony of the buffalo sauce and ranch, these flavors didn’t quite strike the same chord. Mushroom, mango, and pickles? We’re fans of each, but maybe not so much when they are stacked together.

Split Plant-based Burger

But we could rely on our old friend! The $4.99 Fresh-cut Fries were an absolute delight. Also, we are big fans of the signature sauces at D-Luxe. We love the curry ketchup and we would probably take a bath in the garlic ranch if we could.

Fresh-cut Fries

Finally, we had that super tempting Strawberry Gelato Shake, and yes, it was as good as it sounds. Think: Vanilla Gelato blended with Milk and Strawberry Sauce, topped with Whipped Cream, Strawberry drizzle, and Maraschino Cherry. Ugh, now we’re thinking about it again. Maybe we’ll go get another… .

Strawberry Gelato Shake

The consistency of this shake was super smooth and sippable. Plus, it felt like it was made with really high-quality ingredients and you can definitely taste the difference. Next time you’re at D-Luxe, give it a try for $7.50.

Nosh or Not?

Snag a bite at D-Luxe Burger if:

You want a classic AND quality meal of burgers and fries.
You’re tired of the plain old milkshakes and are looking for something a cut above.
You think you’ll love garlic ranch as much as we do.

Dine elsewhere if:

You’re looking for something on the lighter side.
You want to have a nice, slow, sit-down meal.
You want to swing for something more unique than a burger and fries.

Overall

We love a trip to D-Luxe Burger. The menu items are consistently good and we can rely on this spot for a hearty lunch on a Disney Springs day. Even better, D-Luxe had an IMPRESSIVE grasp on health measures so if that’s a concern for you, this spot might tick all your boxes. Still, if you’re looking for something a little more creative than burgers (and trust us, there are some creative options in Disney Springs), you may want to head elsewhere. Overall though, we’re still impressed with how D-Luxe is doing things on and off the menu and you can bet we’ll be back for more.

Read about our full dining experience at Disney Springs here!

What is your favorite burger at D-Luxe Burger? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, disney dining tips, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Walt Disney World, buffalo chicken sandwich, D-Luxe Burger, d-luxe burger reopening, Disney, disney burgers, disney dining, disney food, disney news, disney restaurants, disney snacks, disney springs, disney springs reopening, Disney World, Fresh-cut Fries, Plant-based Pacific Island Burger, Strawberry Gelato Shake

Disney Food Disney Parks Other

What’s New at Disney Springs: Dogs Wearing Face Masks, Four Pounds of Loaded Fries, and MORE!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 24, 2020

Welcome back, friends! We’re here with another What’s New at Disney Springs!

The Landing

Now that the dining and shopping district has reopened its third party locations, we’re here to share all the new and exciting things happening again. And, we’ve got plenty of food, merchandise, entertainment, and construction updates to share with you so let’s dive right on in!

Disney Springs Entertainment Update

Parking

If you’re driving from I4 West, you currently cannot exit and then go directly into the Orange Garage like you used to be able to.

Disney Springs Parking

Right now, guests have to turn right, go down a ramp, and then U-turn at the designated light to get into the Orange Garage instead.

Disney Springs Parking

So, keep this in mind the next time you’re visiting Disney Springs!

Aerophile

Disney’s resident hot air balloon is open to guests again! At this time, you cannot walk around the hot air balloon during your flight on the Aerophile and availability is dependent on weather conditions.

Disney Springs

Tickets are $20 per person for those ages 10 and older, $15 for kids ages 3-9, and FREE for toddlers ages 2 and under.

Pin Trading

While Pin Trading isn’t currently available, the Cast Members we spoke with said that there may be Pin Trading on specified boards near the Marketplace Co-op and other locations in the future.

Marketplace Co-op

However, there likely won’t be any personal Cast Member pin pads or trading off of lanyards at this time.

Live Entertainment

At the moment, live entertainment isn’t taking place in Disney Springs. Cast Members are unsure of when it will return.

Disney Springs Food Update

STK Orlando

Cheers to a NEW week, friends! You can toast to the reopening of Disney Springs at STK Orlando with their happy hour specials right now.

STK Happy Hour

Plus, the restaurant opened up an outdoor bar with to-go drinks and menu items so you can grab and go.

STK Orlando Outdoor Bar

There is also indoor dining (that gets pretty busy!) where you can get drinks at designated tables in the bars upstairs and downstairs.

STK Orlando

Right now, STK Orlando’s hostess is inside of the restaurant whenever you check-in or walk up.

The Basket at Wine Bar George

While Wine Bar George is THE spot for many eats and drinks, we made our way over to its to-go area at The Basket to grab their NEW fries and frozen combo! Each basket of fries comes with a full POUND of loaded goodness for $8, while the drink options are $13 each. They aren’t sold together so you can mix and match your choices, but The Basket has suggestions for the best pairings.

Wine Bar George Menu

We picked up the Freaujolais while we were there…

Freaujolais

…along with ALL the fries available! That means we snacked on FOUR WHOLE POUNDS of Buffalo…

Buffalo Fries

…Togarashi, California, and Queso Fries — just for you guys!

Wine Bar George Fries

While you’re there, you can also pick up the NEW Teal and Lime Corkcicle that comes with YOUR choice of a frozen drink when you purchase it!

New Corkcicle

Right now, there aren’t any tables for The Basket diners, so you’ll have to find another spot to snack on your treats!

Planet Hollywood

Planet Hollywood has reopened! The restaurant is currently selling bottles of water and beer (Bud and Bud Light only for now) outside for guests to purchase.

Planet Hollywood

West Side Starbucks

Although West Side Starbucks originally reopened with Mobile Order only, the coffee shop has now opened a few of its registers for guests to purchase snacks and drinks.

West Side Starbucks

There is still no seating inside, so guests cannot hang around to sip on their Frappuccinos.

West Side Starbucks

Vivoli il Gelato

While Vivoli il Gelato was supposed to open along with the rest of the Patina Restaurant Group spots, its opening has been delayed. A Cast Member said that it would hopefully reopen within the next week.

Vivoli il Gelato

And, the Cast Member told us there will hopefully be specials coming to Vivoli soon to celebrate the gelato shop’s 5th anniversary on June 10th.

Joffrey’s Coffee

Perhaps one of the most EXCITING pieces of news that we have for you guys happens to be that FACE COFFEE HAS RETURNED (and the crowd goes wild)!

Joffrey’s Bakery Case

When we were at Joffrey’s Coffee earlier in the week, you could only get the pre-loaded designs like Mickey printed onto your latte or cappuccino.

Latte Art Sign

But, now you can use the Ripples app on your phone or Joffrey’s tablet to upload your selfie too!

The Polite Pig

If you’re looking for a spot to pick up a face mask in Disney Springs, The Polite Pig is selling their version with the restaurant’s logo for $12.50 at the register. But Polite Pig told us these are selling out quickly!

The Polite Pig Mask

While we were at The Polite Pig, we noticed that the Spinach Salad had been removed, but the Chili was back as a side! The Baked Beans are now vegetarian, and watermelon rind has also been added to the Tomato and Watermelon Salad. There are also two new bourbon flights that you can get at The Polite Pig’s Bourbon Bar too!

The Polite Pig Menu

The Private Barrel Bourbon Flight comes with Elijah Craig, Wellers 107, and Blantons for $20. And, The Three Little Pigs Flight comes with WhistlePig’s Piggyback six year, Farmstock, and 10 year private barrel for $33. And, now onto the BIGGEST eats and drinks! We tried the classic Grapefruit Margarita…

Grapefruit Margarita

…to pair with the NEW Smoked Shrimp and Grits and Creamed Florida Corn! (IT HAS ALL THE CHEESE.)

Our Meal!!

Plus, we wrapped things up with the lovely Orange Blossom Pie that tasted like sweet orange juice!

Orange Blossom Pie

Morimoto Asia Street Food

The menu at Morimoto Asia Street Food has seen a lot of changes for the reopening. The menu has been removed from overhead and you can pick up a copy can by the cash register instead. Since the quick-service spot has reduced its menu currently, the ribs are gone along with the self-serve condiment bar. But, your server will give you any cutlery, chopsticks, napkins, and sauces you need.

Morimoto Asia Street Food

There were no sodas available for purchase when we went because their machine was broken. However, we could still purchase bottled water, draft beer, and other canned or bottled drinks.

We also noticed the BBQ Pork Tenderloin Rice Bowl has been switched over to a BBQ Beef Tenderloin Rice Bowl instead.

Morimoto Asia Street Food

During our visit, we tried the Spicy Pork Ramen and BBQ Pork Bun to get our pork fix for the day!

BBQ Pork Bun

When you’re visiting Morimoto Asia Street Food, be aware that the number of tables has been reduced, hand-sanitizing stations are available in the dining area, and plexiglass has been installed between guests and the cash register.

Morimoto Asia

We couldn’t visit the Morimoto area without dining inside of Morimoto Asia, of course! When you arrive at the restaurant, there is a stand-by line to the right of the main entrance and a line for guests with reservations to the left.

Morimoto Asia

They are currently offering a reduced menu that you can view with the QR code posted. Right now, there is no sushi bar or alcoholic bar service.

Morimoto Asia Sign

While we were there, we tried the Sparkling Belvedere and Forbidden Highball cocktails…

Forbidden Highball and Sparkling Belvedere

…and feasted on the Cauliflower and Cheese Springs Rolls (with beer cheese sauce!!)…

Buffalo Beer Cheese Sauce

…Buri Bop…

Buri Bop

…and Beef Lo Mein! And, boy, were they all AMAZING!!

Beef Lo Mein Noodles

Pizza Ponte

As a health and safety precaution, there is one-way traffic through the restaurant that exits in the gift shop.

Pizza Ponte Exit

There are no new menu items currently, but Pizza Ponte removed a few of its sandwiches to reduce its menu.

Pizza Ponte Menu

The pizza joint is using contactless payments currently with its menu available to view overhead or on your device using a QR code.

Pizza Ponte

The restaurant also added some barriers at the pizza display so Cast Members slide your food through a little window in the plexiglass to pick up.

Pizza Ponte

Sunshine Churros

Chocolate and minty goodness? Yes, the Thin Mint Churro is planning to return to Sunshine Churros!

Sunshine Churros

Although it wasn’t available during our visit, the Cast Members said that it should be back soon.

City Works

City Works may not be open yet, but we did see a drinks-to-go sign and people working outside.

City Works

We’ll keep you updated when we learn more about City Works reopening.

Disney Springs Merchandise Update

Happy Hound

To start this merchandise section off the RIGHT way, we had to show you the adorable dog bandana display that Happy Hound was showing off! They have face masks, you guys.

Happy Hounds

This would be a great way to bring your best friend a little present from Disney Springs!

Happy Hounds Bandanas

Bandanas or “doggie face masks,” you can pick these up at Happy Hounds!

Kiehl’s

Kiehl’s has reopened to guests so they can look at the shampoos, soaps, and more in the store!

Kiehl’s

Plus, you can say hello to this Funky Skeleton!! Bill Nye, is that you?

Kiehl’s

The store isn’t automatically offering samples, but you may be able to request them nicely from a Cast Member.

Kiehl’s

Tommy Bahama

Tommy Bahama has reopened once again to guests! While you’re looking around the store, you can find the Honolulu Company Cookies that Boutiki offers over at Disney’s Polynesian Resort. (YUM!)

Tommy Bahama

At this time, Tommy Bahama isn’t selling face masks, but the store said that could always change.

Tommy Bahama

American Threads

American Threads is… well, WAS selling face masks for $15. However, the store is currently waiting on another shipment and even looking into making different ones with straw holes.

Face Masks at American Threads

There are also no dressing rooms available right now, but you can return clothes with the tags on and receipts within 14 days.

Sunglass Hut

If you’re looking for some new sunnies to wear in the Florida weather or back home, Sunglass Hut has those ADORABLE Disney Ray-Bans!

Disney Ray-Bans

You can try on the glasses still, but you must put them in the designated bins afterward to let Cast Members sanitize them.

Sanitizing Bin

Sosa Cigar

Sosa Cigar has also reopened to guests and you are still able to smoke currently.

Sosa Cigar

Disney Springs Construction Update

M&M Store

If you’re a big chocolate fan like we are, we bet you’re SUPER excited for the new M&M Store coming to Disney Springs! There isn’t too much progress on construction…

M&M Store

…but there’s a QR code available for “exclusive offers.” We scanned it and it led us to a newsletter sign-up (we’ll let you know if we find free M&Ms).

M&M Store

Even with only select stores and restaurants open so far in Disney Springs, there are still PLENTY of opportunities for delicious food and great shopping if you decide you decide you’re ready to visit. Certain Disney-owned locations are scheduled to reopen this week, so we’ll keep you updated with more food, merchandise, entertainment, and construction updates!

Where are you heading to first the next time you’re in Disney Springs? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, disney dining tips, Disney Entertainment, disney merchandise, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Table-Service, Walt Disney World, aerophile, American Threads, City Works Eatery and Pour House, Disney, disney construction, disney dessert, disney dining, disney drinks, disney food, Disney merch, Disney merchandise, disney news, disney parking, disney restaurants, disney snacks, disney springs, disney springs hot air balloon, disney springs reopening, disney treats, Disney World, happy hound, joffrey’s coffee, kiehl’s, m&m store, Morimoto Asia, Morimoto Asia Street Food, pin trading, Pizza Ponte, Planet Hollywood, sosa cigar, STK Orlando, sunglass hut, Sunshine Churros, The Basket at Wine Bar George, The Polite Pig, tommy bahama, Vivoli il Gelato, west side starbucks

Tags aerophile, American Threads, City Works Eatery and Pour House, Counter-Service, disney, disney construction, disney dessert, disney dining, disney dining tips, disney drinks, Disney Entertainment, Disney Food, disney merch, disney merchandise, Disney News, disney parking, disney parks, disney restaurants, disney snacks, Disney Springs, disney springs hot air balloon, disney springs reopening, disney treats, Disney World, Featured, happy hound, joffrey's coffee, kiehl's, M&M Store, Morimoto Asia, Morimoto Asia Street Food, pin trading, Pizza Ponte, Planet Hollywood, Snacks, sosa cigar, STK Orlando, sunglass hut, Sunshine Churros, Table-Service, The Basket at Wine Bar George, The Polite Pig, tommy bahama, Vivoli il Gelato, Walt Disney World, west side starbucks

Disney Parks Other

Just How Well Do You REALLY Know Disney World’s Hollywood Studios?

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 24, 2020

Can you believe that Disney’s Hollywood Studios just turned 31 years old?!

Buzz Lightyear in Mickey’s Cavalcade at Hollywood Studios

While we remember some of the good ole’ days with the Backlot Tour and celebrate the new gems with Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios has SO many details that you might not know about.

We’re testing your Disney Parks knowledge to see if YOU know these fun facts about Disney World’s Hollywood Studios!

Crossroads of the World

This first area you see in Hollywood Studios might look like a spot to grab some pins, a map of the park, and more when you first enter — but it has a bit of real Hollywood history to it! The Crossroads of the World is inspired by the real location of the same name with an…interesting past!

Crossroads of the World

The real Crossroads of the World in Hollywood was built as part open-air shopping center/part memorial for a gangster by the name of Charles “Goodtime Charlie” Crawford. He was shot dead in his office at the original Los Angeles location, and his wife erected the shopping center at the site in his memory in 1936. It was deemed “America’s First Outdoor Shopping Mall” when it opened.

Welcome to the Crossroads!

The Crossroads of the World statue in Hollywood Studios mirrors that same design as the real Hollywood location. While Mickey is a little magical addition to the top of the globe, unlike the actual version in Los Angeles, he also serves a purpose as a lightning rod, too! (Oh, Disney, you think of everything.)

Send Mail to Some Famous Hollywood Characters

Ever wanted to be a pen pal with some of the biggest names in Hollywood? If you check out the names on the crates outside of Dockside Diner, you can actually spot the “mailing addresses” of the greatest Hollywood characters that have ever graced the big screen!

Dockside Diner

We’ve spotted George Bailey from It’s a Wonderful Life, Rick Blaine from Casablanca, Scarlett O’Hara from Gone With the Wind, and more!

Casablanca Cargo

Sometimes they’ll actually change these crates out, so keep an eye out for new characters and names!

Hollywood Brown Derby’s Famous Treats

The Hollywood Brown Derby was THE spot for Hollywood glitz and glamour. Hollywood stars from all over the industry would visit the restaurant to wine and dine.

Hollywood Brown Derby

And, since the Disney World location is based on the ACTUAL Hollywood Brown Derby, the menu includes some of its most infamous items!

The Cobb Salad

The Cobb Salad is a wildly popular menu item at the restaurant, but did you know it originated by coincidence in the real Brown Derby? There are many versions of the origin story for the salad but the most common is that owner Robert Cobb developed the salad…

Famous Cobb Salad

…and later shared it with his pal Sid Grauman, the namesake of Hollywood’s famous Chinese Theatre (also recreated in Hollywood Studios!), who loved it so much he came back to the restaurant the next day asking for that “Cobb Salad” again!

Cobb Salad

The official Cobb Salad is made with finely chopped greens, turkey, bacon, egg, tomatoes, crumbled bleu cheese, avocado, chives, and Cobb dressing.

Grapefruit Cake

Back in the day in REAL Hollywood, popular gossip columnist Louella Parsons frequented the Brown Derby. One day, she let owner Robert Cobb know she thought all his dessert options were far too fattening and asked if he could offer something lighter for guests.

Grapefruit Cake at Hollywood Brown Derby

The story goes that Cobb told his head chef to “put grapefruit on something” since the citrus was widely considered to be “slimming” at the time. The result was a (not so) slimming dessert with heaps of cream cheese frosting and grapefruit flavors between layers of chiffon cake!

The Shirley Temple

Not every star who visited the Hollywood Brown Derby was a grown-up! Shirley Temple was one of the biggest Hollywood stars in the late 1930s. Since she was obviously too young to drink any alcohol at the parties or dinners she attended, a bartender came up with a “grown-up” drink just for her.

Traditionally, the drink combined grenadine and ginger ale with a bit of lime (and of course a maraschino cherry or two!). Some versions use lemon-lime soda. (But those versions would be wrong.)

Shirley Temple

Multiple restaurants, including the Brown Derby, claim to have invented the drink for her, but a Hollywood restaurant called Chasen’s is widely regarded as the true originator. Temple dined frequently at the Brown Derby and stated that it was the spot that made the drink popular.

Oddly enough, while it’s become a fan-favorite, Temple actually said that it was too sweet for her to drink!

Cobb Salad, Shirley Temple, Grapefruit Cake

You can get ALL of these iconic treats at the Hollywood Brown Derby in Hollywood Studios still! And, now they’re even better since you know the stories behind them!!

Fashion Icons, Adrian and Edith!

While you can easily spot Adrian and Edith’s Head to Toe shop in the park, you might not know that the names on the store are actual Hollywood costume designers’ names. Adrian Greenburg (who just went by “Adrian“) was best known for creating the costumes in The Wizard of Oz (including the famous Ruby Slippers!), which was referenced in the late Great Movie Ride (we miss you).

Adrian and Edith’s Head to Toe

Edith Head, on the other hand, received the most Academy Awards ever (8!!) for costume design (out of 35 nominations!!). Although you might recognize her work in Roman Holiday, Rear Window, and more, Edith is better known to the Disney community as the inspiration behind Edna Mode in The Incredibles.

You might recognize her signature black bob and round glasses on top of that acute sense for FASHION, dahling!

Edna Mode

And sorry Edna, but Edith Head TOTALLY used capes in her designs (and LOADS of shoulder pads!).

Carthay Circle

Alright, Disney trivia buffs! This one’s for you! The Carthay Circle might be one of the most famous theaters in Los Angeles, but it was also the home to the premiere of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs in 1937.

In honor of the place that showed Walt’s first feature film, both Disneyland and Disney World have their own version of the theater as a nod to Walt.

Once Upon a Time (and the Carthay Circle Building!)

While Disneyland has a restaurant version in Disney California Adventure, Disney World has a store in Hollywood Studios instead! We think it’s kind of a Disney pilgrimage to visit both spots on the coasts, don’t you??

Can You Find A113?

While we are all big fans of the “2319” situation in Monsters, Inc. (it even got its own ice cream cone last year in Disney World!), the filmmakers at Pixar actually hide the sequence “A113” in all of their movies.

What’s the significance of this, you ask? Well, A113 (actually, A1-13) happens to be the number of the Cal Arts’ classroom where the original Pixar artists and animators studied (Tim Burton and many others also graced room A1-13 around that time!).

Toy Story Land

You can actually spot the numbers A113 if you look REAL close in Toy Story Land! Outside of Woody’s Lunch Box, you can see some dominoes and blocks in a grass strip. The dominoes have a 1, 1, and a 3, while the letter A is the only one visible on the building blocks!

Woody’s Lunch Box area

You can visit A113 in real life without having to travel to Cal Arts!

A Net Full of Jello??

Muppet Vision 3-D is FILLED with wacky tidbits and little details that are super fun to find. However, one of the most unique (and well-thought-out) puns in the ride is something that most people don’t realize is a joke.

In the waiting area before you enter the theater, look up and you will see a net full of green and orange jello hanging from the ceiling.

Muppet Vision 3-D

While this might seem super random and weird (perfect for the Muppets), it’s actually a play on words! If you put them together or say them quickly, it’s “Anet Fullofjello…” OR “Annette Funicello,” who is the most famous Mouseketeer of them all! Whoever thought of that one is a GENIUS.

You Could Have STAYED in the Tower of Terror?!

Okay, so we’re still holding up for this dream somehow and some way…but, when the Tower of Terror started to get built, Michael Eisner (who was the CEO at the time) thought it would be cool to have rooms built into the attraction! Ummm, excuse us??

Tower of Terror Sign

That means, if things had turned out a little differently for the Hollywood Tower Hotel, you could have had a spooky night sleeping in The Twilight Zone-themed resort (maybe we would have had to take the stairs?).

Tower of Terror

However AWESOME that may seem, it would have literally been a nightmare to try and work out the logistics of guests staying inside the resort at night. Instead, they scrapped the Haunted Hotel idea and they just kept the Tower of Terror as an attraction.

A Tale (Er, Show) as Old as Time

When Beauty and the Beast was released in theaters on November 22nd, 1991, the live stage show in Hollywood Studios also debuted in the park on the same day! It was meant to get guests even more excited for the movie. And, it obviously did its job!

People fell so in love with the stage show (and the film) that it’s stuck around in Hollywood Studios for almost THREE decades!

©Disney

It’s still a fun way to pass the time in the park whether you’re looking for fun entertainment or a way to get out of the heat for a short bit of time. Plus, who doesn’t love singing along to “Be Our Guest??”

An Entire PLANET Full of Star Wars Easter Eggs

Honestly, there are so many details in Galaxy’s Edge, it would take HOURS for us to point them all out to you around Batuu! Some of our favorites happen to be the Dionaga (or trash compactor monster) in the water fountain…

Regular water fountains?

Dianoga’s Lurk!

…Queen Amidala’s head wrap and the Mandalorian’s helmet in Dok Ondar’s…

Mandalorian Helmet

And of course, we can’t forget our old trusty StarSpeeder 3000 pilot from the OG Star Tours, R-3X! Did you know this little droid has always been voiced by Pee Wee Herman, Paul Reubens?!

DJ R3X

He’s one of the more obvious Easter Eggs in Galaxy’s Edge, having retired from piloting (he was replaced by C-3PO on the current Star Tours) and taking up DJing over in Oga’s Cantina. “Light speed to Endor!”

Although Hollywood Studios may be three decades old, it’s still as timeless as ever! We can’t help but feel like the park always deserves a “HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD!” from us!

What are some of your favorite hidden gems in Hollywood Studios? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney dining tips, Disney Entertainment, disney parks, disney’s hollywood studios, Featured, Walt Disney World, a net full of jello, a113, adrian and edith’s head to toe, annette funicello, beauty and the beast- live on stage, carthay circle, Cobb Salad, crossroads of the world, dionaga, Disney, disney dining, disney news, disney restaurants, Disney World, dockside diner, Dok Ondar’s, Galaxy’s Edge, Grapefruit Cake, Hollywood Brown Derby, Hollywood Studios, hollywood tower hotel, muppets vision 3-D, queen amidala’s head wrap, shirley temple, smugglers run, Star Wars Land, the mandalorian helmet, tower of terror, Toy Story Land

Disney Food Disney Parks Other

Review! Shrimp, Grits, AND Cheesy Corn?? We’re Reviewing NEW Menu Items At The Polite Pig In Disney Springs!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 24, 2020

We’re back again in Disney Springs to bring you all the food news after its reopening!

Disney Springs

While we took you on a tour of the reopening restaurants, we’re returning for seconds at The Polite Pig (and to try a few new menu items!).

Drinks

We started off our day at The Polite Pig with the Grapefruit Margarita (heart eyes) made with corazon tequila, citrus, and grapefruit liqueur for $11. It tasted like grapefruit heaven! While the tequila gave it a little bite, it was mostly tangy and sweet, which was perfect for this hot Florida weather!

Grapefruit Margarita

The Polite Pig added a new Private Barrel Bourbon Flight with Elijah Craig, Wellers 107, and Blantons for $20. They also added The Three Little Pigs Flight with WhistlePig’s Piggyback six year, Farmstock, and 10 year private barrel for $33.

Eats

For our main course, we ordered up a feast with the Shrimp and Grits and Creamed Florida Corn that are NEW to the menu.

First up, the Creamed Florida Corn was The Polite Pig’s latest seasonal side topped with queso fresco and spiced breadcrumbs that were BOMB.

Our Meal!!

While the grilled street corn is already one of The Polite Pig’s best sides, the creamed corn was extremely fresh and tasty. Since the recipe opted for queso fresco, this version of creamed corn was lighter compared to ones we’ve had before. There were also peppers sprinkled throughout the side to add a bit of a kick alongside the crunch from the bread crumbs.

Smoked Cream Corn

We told you about the Smoked Shrimp and Grits coming to The Polite Pig, but we didn’t prepare you for how awesome they were.

Shrimp and Grits

The smoked grilled shrimp was topped with a honey peppercorn glaze and served over creamy cheddar grits. So, if you’re a big fan of cheese (totally us), you’re going to want to pair the Shrimp and Grits with that new Creamed Corn!! The shrimp had a nice smoky flavor that the honey peppercorn glaze brought out with each bite. The grits had LOTS of flavor, while staying smooth and not overly creamy.

Shrimp and Grits

In case you need even MORE flavor for your shrimp, The Polite Pig is still offering their signature sauces. Although the Sauce Bar is closed to guests, you can still ask your servers for whichever sauce you’d like with your meal, and they will get them for you!

The Polite Pig

And, what would a meal at The Polite Pig be without dessert?? While we can’t get a Gideon’s Bakehouse Cookie right now (we’re just as sad as you are), we went with the Orange Blossom Pie instead for $7!

Orange Blossom Pie

The citrus flavors in this pie were AMAZING and almost tasted like you were snacking on an orange juice-flavored treat. It paired really well with the rest of our Grapefruit Margarita with that bit of orange zest!

Overall

The Polite Pig is a great destination in Disney Springs if you’re looking for more of a home-cooked meal vibe paired with some GREAT drinks (have you tried their Bourbon Bar??).

Polite Pig Overview

Whenever you’re there to grab one (or all) of the menu items, be sure to check out the new Pork Rinds while you’re at it! And, The Polite Pig has been cooking up a lot of new options lately, so don’t forget to ask about the Chef’s Smoker Special and Seasonal Side — you might just stumble onto something as wonderful as these shrimp and grits!

What is your favorite thing to get at The Polite Pig? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Walt Disney World, creamed florida corn, Disney, disney dessert, disney dining, disney dining review, disney food, disney news, disney restaurants, disney review, disney snacks, disney springs, disney springs reopening, disney treats, Disney World, Grapefruit Margarita, orange blossom pie, polite pig dining review, shrimp and grits, The Polite Pig, the polite pig review

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REVIEW! We Tried Three Whole Pounds of LOADED FRIES at The Basket in Disney Springs!

Post author By disneyfoodblog.com
Post date May 23, 2020

Disney Springs re-opened its third-party restaurants and stores, and we’ve been taking you all around property with us to get snacking!

Buffalo Fries with Freaujolais

We’ve visited one of the Happiest Restaurants on Earth (AKA Wine Bar George) to check out its new procedures AND stopped by its quick service spot, The Basket, to try one of their new Fries and Frozen drink pairings. But, if you think that our love for fries stopped there, think again!

We are back for another round of the new fries that The Basket at Wine Bar George has recently rolled out. Each basket of fries is $8 and comes with an entire pound of crispy treats.

Wine Bar George Menu

So that means we totally ate three pounds of fries for breakfast — just to review them for you guys! ;D But, don’t worry — we used the plastic forks so our hands didn’t get too messy!

Wine Bar George Fries

We’re starting off with our favorite out of the three, because why not?? The Queso Fries (!!!) were loaded with queso and peppers so they’re the ultimate form of cheese fries.

Queso Fries

The queso was house-made with a blend of 4 different cheeses (the cheesier, the better). While the queso wasn’t that spicy, the peppers added a GREAT kick to each bite! While we could totally indulge in three pounds of the Queso Fries alone…

Queso Fries

…we’ve got more fries to review for you! The California Fries were made with avocado cream and bacon — and they were just as good as they sound.

California Fries

The avocado cream was lighter than the queso, so the dish wasn’t as heavy. But, there was still plenty of flavor from the sauce and the bacon bits. While some bacon tends to get a little too crispy on fries, the bacon on the California Fries was wonderful and added a hint of smokiness to the taste.

California Fries

Last, but not least, the Togarashi Fries were topped with sesame seeds and a chili sauce! Plus, there was a lime wedge so you could mix a little zest into the flavors.

Togarashi Fries

Although the first couple bites of the Togarashi Fries weren’t all that spicy, the kick snuck up on us as we were eating them! However, we do wish that there had been more chilis in the sauce to make the fries spicier. The sauce was just that awesome that we could have used more! Out of all three of the fry baskets we tried, the Togarashi Fries had the most flavors going on in the dish. Who knew that fries could be spicy and tangy?

Togarashi Fries

Wine Bar George, you’ve done it again! The fries in each of the baskets were super seasoned and salty (our favorite). And, since each basket comes with a pound of fries, you could definitely share these with a friend or family member. Or, you can treat yo’self, you know!

What is your favorite thing to get at The Basket or Wine Bar George? Let us know in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Counter-Service, disney dining tips, Disney News, disney parks, Disney Springs, Featured, Snacks, Walt Disney World, california fries, Disney, disney dining, disney food, Disney fries, disney news, disney restaurants, disney snacks, disney springs, disney springs reopening, Disney World, queso fries, togarashi fries, Wine Bar George