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Bookings Begin for Premium Events for Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

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There are more ways than ever to celebrate at the 20th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival September 25-November 16 – and while plenty of events are included with park admission, we look forward each fall to the over-the-top “premium events.”

Get ready to book your reservations when the phone lines open at 7 a.m. on Thursday, July 30: 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378). And while some favorites fill up fast, there are lots of new events to celebrate the festival’s 20 years at Walt Disney World Resort. Some events can be booked at epcotfoodfestival.com: culinary demos, beverage seminars, mixology seminars, general admission for Party for the Senses and general admission for the Rockin’ Burger Block Party. Check out all the events at the website, then get set to dial or book online!

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Beginning today, you can go to epcotfoodfestival.com to choose your own lineup, but here are our top picks:

  • Get a glimpse of the cast of ABC TV’s “The Chew” at a new premium event on October 8 in World ShowPlace: the Rockin’ Burger Block Party, with specialty burgers and sliders inspired by top names in the music industry such as Dave Matthews and his Dreaming Tree Wines and Carlos Santana’s Casa Noble Tequila. (Two additional Burger Block Parties are set for September 25 and November 6.) This one includes VIP seating with a specialty cocktail toast, premium bar and more.
  • One of a series of popular Party for the Senses premium events will be the first-time Yelloween Masquerade Party for the Senses October 31, an elegant, dance-the-night-away, gourmet tasting party with Champagne, wine, craft beers and specialty cocktails paired with food. (You’ll want to masquerade in chic yellow and black.)
  • Another Party for the Senses we don’t want to miss is October 24 with Disney chefs from the United States, Europe and Asia cooking their favorite cuisine that represents their cultures as well as the Disney Parks and Resorts they call home. Additional Party for the Senses dates are October 3, 10 and 17, and each evening starts with a reserved seat at the Eat to the Beat concert series at the America Gardens Theatre. Following the show, head to World ShowPlace for a sensational evening with more than 50 tasting stations. (And Cirque du Soleil is back!)
  • What’s Cookin’ With … begin the morning with a delightful plated brunch and sparkling wine toast. Culinary celebs will demo a favorite dish and then sit down with the emcee to answer questions from the audience and share secrets of their successes. The brunch happens every Friday and Saturday at 10 a.m.

Guests include:

  • September 27: Andrew Zimmern
  • October 2: Amanda Freitag presented by Mylan
  • October 4: Bryan Voltaggio
  • October 9: Jamie Deen
  • October 11: Carla Hall
  • October 16: Gale Gand
  • October 18: Cat Cora
  • October 23: Allen Susser
  • October 25: John Ash presented by Verlasso
  • October 30: Robert Irvine
  • November 1: Erika Davis
  • November 6: Buddy Valastro
  • November 8: David Guas
  • November 13: Alex Guarnaschelli
  • November 15: Sarah Fioroni

Others premium events we look forward to trying: the Mexican Tequila Lunch, Japanese Craft Beer Tasting and the new French Family Meal Traditions.

Included in regular Epcot admission are the new Back to Basics series, special book signings, Eat to the Beat concerts, cultural adventures, Marketplace Discovery Passport and attractions and park entertainment.

Entertainment and Events are subject to change without notice.

Top 5 Hot Dogs to Celebrate National Hot Dog Day at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts

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Tomorrow is National Hot Dog Day, but we celebrate year-round! Did you know Walt Disney Parks and Resorts guests enjoy more than 6.4 million hot dogs annually? In honor of National Hot Dog Day, we’re sharing the Top 5 hot dogs from coast to coast:

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Macaroni & Cheese Hot Dog (Restaurantosaurus, Disney’s Animal Kingdom): This dog is topped with creamy macaroni and cheese and bacon bits, sure to satisfy your prehistoric hunger.

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Vegetarian Portobello-Mushroom Philly (Award Wieners, Disney California Adventure park): Even carnivores will love this dish with grilled Portobello, onions and bell peppers sautéed in Karl Strauss Red Trolley Ale and topped with pepper jack cheese.
Frankfurter in a Pretzel Roll (Min and Bill’s Dockside Diner, Disney’s Hollywood Studios): This dog is perfect when you’re on the go, the Dijon mustard inside the roll will help keep you mess-free for your silver screen debut.

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Chili-Cheese Dog (Refreshment Corner, Disneyland park): Combining Walt Disney’s love for chili with an all-American hot dog, this classic might be the perfect Disneyland tribute.

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Barbecued Pork and Coleslaw Gourmet Hot Dog (Casey’s Corner, Magic Kingdom Park): Topped with barbecued pulled pork and refreshing coleslaw, this hearty dog begs to be enjoyed picnic-style in the new Hub grass area.

How will you celebrate National Hot Dog Day?

Ice Palace Boutique Coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios for Frozen Summer Fun This July

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The Ice Palace Boutique will join Frozen Summer Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting July 26. This wintry salon is where guests ages 3-12 can undergo a magical transformation as they prepare for Coronation day revel in a flurry of “Frozen” fun. The Ice Palace Boutique will be located on Commissary Lane across from ABC Commissary in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

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Unique to this location, guests can purchase select packages where families can also join in the “Frozen” fun. Additional party members can enjoy the exclusive Ice Palace Café, an immersive “Frozen”-themed café with included snacks while they wait for their Anna or Elsa.

The party will also get reserved seating at one show of “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” at Hyperion Theater.

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The “Frozen”-inspired packages include:

  • Frozen Summer Fun Boutique Package – This package includes Anna or Elsa-inspired shimmering makeup palette, face gems, nail polish, a braided hair piece with sparkling snowflake accessory and an exclusive photo opportunity. Package retail: $75, includes tax.
  • Ice Palace Boutique Package – This package includes the items offered in the Frozen Summer Fun Boutique Package. It also includes access to the Ice Palace Café and reserved seating at one of the “For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration” shows. Package retail: $175, includes tax.
  • Ice Palace Boutique Deluxe Package – This package includes an Anna or Elsa costume plus the items offered in the Ice Palace Boutique Package. Package retail: $240, includes tax.

The Ice Palace Boutique Package and the Ice Palace Boutique Deluxe Package is for up to 6 guests, including the child getting the magical transformation.

Reservations can be made in advance and are highly recommended. To book your appointment starting July 17, please call 407-827-7400. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call. The location may be able to accommodate guests without reservations on a limited, first-come, first-serve basis each day.

Ice Palace Boutique will only be offered during Frozen Summer Fun at Disney’s Hollywood Studios which continues through September 7, 2015.

 

Go Off-The-Beaten Path with New Escape to Walt’s Wilderness Resort Offering

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Does gliding across the lake on a peaceful morning, hiking through the wilderness, sharing stories about Disney heritage, or riding in a horse-drawn wagon sound appealing to you? The new Escape to Walt’s Wilderness offers an off-the-beaten-path experience ideal for the whole family.

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The journey begins with a pontoon boat tour from Disney’s Contemporary Resort marina with a Disney guide who shares stories about Walt’s love of the outdoors and nature. He tells us we are about to “walk in Walt’s footsteps and see why he was determined to choose this place for his next Disneyland.” Unbeknownst to me, Central Florida had personal appeal to Walt as this was where his parents met many moons ago. And as we pushed off the dock to explore Bay Lake we also learned that while Walt never had the chance to see the completion of Walt Disney World Resort, he did indeed sail across this same lake before he passed.

The adventure continues with a quest for native Florida wildlife. Two pontoon boats carrying about ten guests each are equipped with wildlife guides and binoculars to seek out the many varieties that call Bay Lake home. Birds and bald eagles soar, dragonflies buzz about, fragrant moss and lily pads connect you to the surroundings and allow you to reflect on the sheer beauty of the environment. We were exploring nature, just like Walt loved to do.

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Once the boat is beached, the group is welcomed by a giant bonfire and camp-style breakfast. Locally sourced citrus salad, egg frittata, cinnamon rolls, biscuits, granola, coffee and juice make for a nice feast. And what’s a campfire without marshmallows for roasting. Next, a pair of field horses pulling a wagon enter the scene for transport to an archery lesson in a woodsy field at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. A short hike in the woods past the train tracks from the former Fort Wilderness Railroad is where we discover Walt’s fascination with trains.

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Next stop is Tri-Circle-D Ranch where “ranch hands” share stories about how horses have been incorporated into Disney theme parks since day one. Guests have a chance to view the horses in a natural environment, learn about how they are cared for, and get up close with these majestic animals. There’s lot of surprises throughout the immersive, half-day trek, especially the legends and tales that unfold along the way.

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The program is typically offered two days a week from 8 a.m.– 1 p.m. on select days. The cost is $109, plus tax for ages 7 and older. Complimentary transportation to and from the experience is provided for guests staying at Disney owned and operated resort hotels. To book or for more information, call 407-WDW-PLAY.

Epcot Announces Booths and Menus for Food and Wine Festival

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Epcot announces the booths and menus for it’s 20th Annual International Food and Wine Festival running September 25 through November 16, 2015

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2015 Epcot Food and Wine Festival Booths and Menus

Africa
Journey deep into a diverse assortment of tastes and tannins, inspired by the countries of the African continent.

Food:
Berbere-style beef tenderloin tips with onions, jalapeños, tomato and pap*
Buttered chicken with micro cilantro and naan bread

Beverages:
Indaba Chenin Blanc
DeMorgenzon DMZ Cabernet Róse
Fairview Pinotage*
Jam Jar Sweet Shiraz

Australia
Enjoy a rich range of delectable menu options hailing from the land down under, including several Australian wines.

Food:
Grilled sweet and spicy bush berry shrimp with pineapple, peppers, onions, and snap peas
Grilled lamb chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies*
Lamington: Yellow cake dipped in chocolate and shredded coconut

Beverages:
Coopers Brewery Extra Strong Vintage Ale
Château Tanunda Grand Barossa Dry Riesling
Bulletin Place Unoaked Chardonnay
Yangarra Estate Vineyard Shiraz*

Belgium
Discover a different take on the waffle as you indulge in savory sweets and hoppy treats from the Kingdom of Belgium.

Food:
Potato and leek waffle with beer-braised beef and smoked gouda cream*
Belgium waffle with warm chocolate ganache and whipped cream
Belgium waffle with berry compote and whipped cream

Beverages:
Hoegaarden®
Leffe® Blonde*
Palm Spéciale Belge Ale
Stella Artois® Cidre
Chilled coffee featuring Godiva Chocolate Liqueur
Beer flight: Hoegaarden®, Palm Amber Ale, Leffe® Blonde and Stella Artois® Cidre

Brazil
Explore offerings from the Atlantic coastline as you make your way inland to the heartbeat of South American culture.

Food:
Escondidinho de carne, “Little Hidden One”: layered meat pie with mashed yucca
Crispy pork belly with black beans and tomato*
Pão de queijo: Brazilian cheese bread
Cocada: Brazilian coconut candy

Beverages:
Kaiser Brewery Xingu Black Beer*
Carnaval Moscato Sparkling White Wine
Frozen Caipirinha featuring LeBlon Cachaça

Brewers Collection
Pop the top and soak up some European-style suds. Or, order a flight to set off on your own beer smorgasbord.

Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
Norbertus Special Hefeweizen
BraufactuM Progusta IPA
Shöfferhofer Zitrone Weizen-Mix

Bier Flight
Radeberger Zwickel Pilsner (Unfiltered)
Norbertus Special Hefeweizen
BraufactuM Progusta IPA
Shöfferhofer Zitrone Weizen-Mix

Canada
Celebrate the “Great White North” with Yukon fare, including refreshing lagers and ice-cold wines.

Food:
Canadian cheddar cheese soup
Chicken sausage with creamy polenta and Minus 8 onion jam
“Le Cellier” wild mushroom beef filet mignon with truffle butter sauce*

Beverages:
Moosehead® Lager
Neige Premiere Apple Ice Wine
Inniskillin Vidal Icewine
Tawse Vineyard Cabernet Franc*

Cheese Studio — NEW! 
Have it your “whey” with a sumptuous selection of smooth and savory cheeses.

Food:
Trio of artisan cheese
Karst cave-aged cheese served with honey
La Bonne Vie goat cheese served with Craisin® bread
Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue Cheese with berry port compote
Sweet goat cheese panna cotta with guava gellé
Cheese fondue with sourdough bread

Beverages:
Robert Mondavi FuméBlanc
Still River Winery Apfel Eis (apple ice wine)
Sterling Vintner’s Collection Cabernet Sauvignon

Chew Lab — NEW!
Masterful techniques and modern technology come together for a 21st-century flavor revolution.

Food:
Olive oil poached salmon with fresh corn, bacon and pepper jam
New York strip, parsnip silk, balsamic glaze and arugula foam*
Liquid nitro chocolate almond truffle with warm whiskey caramel

Beverages:
Festival Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Festival Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles*
Smoking Hibiscus featuring Montelobos® Mezcal Joven

China
Commemorate the countrymen of the world’s most populous nation with a choice of their food and beverage favorites.

Food:
Beijing roasted duck in steamed bun with hoisin sauce
Gaoli beef slider*
Black pepper shrimp with Sichuan noodles
Chicken pot stickers

Beverages:
TSINGTAO Beer
Francis Ford Coppola Su Yuen Riesling*
Ritzy Lychee with cognac and vodka
Happy Peach with peach liqueur and dark rum
Kung Fu Punch with vodka and triple sec
Mango jasmine tea with popping bubbles

Craft Beers
Sophisticate your knowledge of all things hops and barley with a cool brew or flight from a popular craft brewery.

Beverages:
Brew Hub Keybilly Island Ale, Lakeland, FL
Two Henrys Blueberry Vanilla American Wheat Ale, Plant City, FL
Orlando Brewing Grateful Pumpkin, Orlando, FL
Swamp Head Wild Night® Honey Cream Ale, Gainsville, FL
3 Daughters St. Pete Beach Blonde Ale, St. Petersburg, FL
Florida Beer Company Passport 20 Belgian-Style Tripel Ale, Cape Canaveral, FL
Funky Buddha Vanilla Espresso Porter, Oakland Park, FL
Shipyard Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, Clearwater, FL
Flight #1: Florida Harvest
Brew Hub Keybilly Island Ale, Lakeland, FL
Two Henrys Blueberry Vanilla American Wheat Ale, Plant City, FL
Orlando Brewing Grateful Pumpkin, Orlando, FL
Swamp Head Wild Night® Honey Cream Ale, Gainsville, FL
Flight #2: Craft Beer Lovers
3 Daughters St. Pete Beach Blonde Ale, St. Petersburg, FL
Florida Beer Company Passport 20 Belgian-Style Tripel Ale, Cape Canaveral, FL
Funky Buddha Vanilla Espresso Porter, Oakland Park, FL
Shipyard Bourbon Barrel Aged Imperial Stout, Clearwater, FL

Food:
Craft beer snack mix: sweet and savory blend of nuts, fruits, and crackers
Charcuterie plate: Country pâté, cured meats, and crostini
Pimento cheese dip with pretzel crisps
Bloody Mary shrimp cocktail

Desserts & Champagne
Seduce your sweet tooth to the core while you tickle your nose with any one of the bubbly sensations that await you.

Food:
Chocolate cherry explosion
Strawberry-basil champagne “toast”
Guylian® Belgian chocolate seashell truffles

Beverages:
Nicholas Feuillatte Blanc de Blancs
Möet & Chandon Impérial
Veuve Clicquot® Ponsardin “Yellow Label”
Dom Pérignon
Möet & Chandon Nectar Impérial
Orange Blossom Brewery Toasted Coconut Porter float with caramel ice cream
Cream soda float with caramel ice cream
Frozen S’mores featuring Monin® Toasted Marshmallow Syrup

Dominican Republic — On Hiatus Since 2007!
The dazzling flavors of Spanish, African and indigenous Taino cuisine come together for a tantalizing assortment of Dominican dishes.

Food:
Lechón asado: Roasted pork with mangú, pickled red onion and avocado*
Soufflé de yuca: Yuca soufflé topped with griddled cheese
Pescado con coco: Seared grouper, pigeon peas and rice with coconut sauce
Caramel flan with rum-roasted pineapple

Beverages:
Presidente Pilsner Beer*
Frozen Dominican piña colada featuring Ron Barceló Blanco Rum
Frozen sugar cane cocktail featuring Ron Barceló Blanco Rum

Farm Fresh
Appease your hunger with a hearty harvest of fresh fare—straight from the farm and on to you!

Food:
Loaded mac n’ cheese with Nueske’s® pepper bacon, cheddar cheese, peppers and green onions
Griddled “yard bird” with braised greens*

Beverages:
Woodchuck Raspberry Hard Cider
Wyder’s® Dry Pear Hard Cider
Two Henrys Elderberry Hard Cider
ACE Hard Pumpkin Cider
Florida Orange Groves, Key Limen Wine
Tom Gore Chardonnay*
Tom Gore Cabernet Sauvignon
Hard cider flight:
Woodchuck Raspberry Hard Cider
Wyder’s® Dry Pear Hard Cider
Two Henrys Elderberry Hard Cider
ACE Hard Pumpkin Cider

France
Peruse France for a taste of the finer things… food and drink both classical in tone and timeless in their presentation.

Food:
Croissant aux escargots with garlic and parsley
Boeuf bourguignon: Braised short ribs in cabernet with mashed potatoes*
Crème brûlée vanille chocolat: Vanilla & chocolate crème brûlée topped with caramelized sugar

Beverages:
Beer, Kronenbourg Blanc 1664
Chardonnay, Macon-Villages, Vielles Vignes Mommessin
Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux, Château Bonnet*
Sparkling Pomegranate Kir
Ice Pop Pomme: Apple juice, vodka, and St. Germain liqueur
La Passion Martini Slush: vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron, cranberry and passion fruit juice

Germany
Revel in the spirit of the Rhineland—sink your teeth into a tasty sausage and then wash it down with a German beer.

Food:
Schinkennudeln: Pasta gratin with ham and cheese*
Roast bratwurst in a pretzel roll
Apple strudel with vanilla sauce

Beverages:
J&H Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Kabinett*
Selbach-Oster Mosel Riesling Spätlese
J&H Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Auslese
Kallstadter Kobnert Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) Spätlese Dry
German Riesling flight:
J&H Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Kabinett
Selbach-Oster Mosel Riesling Spätlese
J&H Selbach Bernkasteler Kurfürstlay Riesling Auslese

Greece
Experience old country flavors from a classic land, whether pulled from the sea or picked from trees on the hillside.

Food:
Vegetarian moussaka with Gardein™ sausage crumbles*
Greek salad in a cone
Chicken gyro with tzatziki sauce
Spanakopita

Beverages:
Domaine Skouras Moscofilero*
Domaine Siglas Assyrtiko/Athiri
Alpha Estate Axia Syrah Xinomavro
Tzatziki martini featuring Crop Organic Cucumber Vodka and BOLS® Natural Yoghurt Liqueur

Hawai’i
Say “aloha” as you travel across the Pacific for some tropical flavors and island favorites, both savory and sweet.

Food:
Kālua pork slider with sweet and sour Dole® Pineapple chutney and spicy mayonnaise*
Tuna poke with seaweed salad and lotus root chips

Beverages:
Kona Brewing Company, Big Wave® Golden Ale*
Kona Brewing Company, Pipeline Porter
Maui Splash Sweet Pineapple Wine
Mai Tai featuring Sammy’s Beach Bar Rum

Hops & Barley
Endear yourself to the sensibilities of the States, from stout ales to artisan cheese plates.

Food:
New England Lobster Roll*
Florida grass fed beef slider with pimento cheese
Fresh baked carrot cake with Craisins® and cream cheese icing

Beverages:
SweetWater Take Two Pils
Goose Island® Honkers Ale
Samuel Adams® Rebel IPA
Dogfish Head Sixty-One IPA
La Crema® Chardonnay*
Cambria Estate Winery Julia’s Vineyard Pinot Noir
Beer Flight (Includes 4, 4 oz. servings)
SweetWater Take Two Pils
Goose Island® Honkers Ale
Samuel Adams® Rebel IPA
Dogfish Head Sixty-One IPA

Intermissions Cafe

Food:
Asian Tuna Salad with Noodles
Southwest Chicken Wrap
Tuna Salad with Pita
Cucumber and Tomato Salad
Crudité of Carrots, Celery and Broccoli with Creamy Pepper Relish
Fruit & Cheese Plate
Side Salad
Grapes
Key Lime Pie
Brownie

Beverages:
Festival Chardonnay, Napa Valley
Festival Cabernet Sauvignon, Paso Robles
MARTINI® Prosecco
Caposaldo Peach Moscato Sweet Sparkling Wine
Iron Horse Vineyards “Fairy Tale Cuvée” Sparkling Wine
Presidente Pilsner Beer
Two Henrys Elderberry Hard Cider
Assorted soft drinks
Dasani Water

Ireland
Jaunt over for favorite flavors o’ the Emerald Isle, including robust cheeses, honey wine and chilled Irish coffee.

Food:
Lobster and seafood fisherman’s pie
Kerrygold® cheese selection: Reserve cheddar, Dubliner with Irish Stout and Skellig
Warm chocolate pudding with Kerrygold Irish Cream Liqueur Custard*

Beverages:
Kilkenny Irish Cream Ale
Bunratty Meade Honey Wine
Chilled Irish Coffee featuring Bunratty Potcheen*
Kerrygold® Irish Cream Liqueur

Italy
Embark for a delightful occasion in Italy to get your fill of fresh-made pasta and wines from the countryside.

Food:
Ravioli alla caprese: Cheese ravioli, tomato sauce, mozzarella, parmesan and basil
Filetto di pollo, con funghi al marsala: Chicken tenderloin, cremini mushrooms, marsala sauce and ciabatta bread*
Cannoli al cioccolato: Chocolate-covered cannoli filled with sweet ricotta, chocolate and candied fruit

Beverages:
Moretti Lager Beer
Moretti La Rossa Beer
Pinot Grigio, Placido
Corbinello, Montegrande
Chianti Classico, Placido*
Moscato Fior d’Arancio, Montegrande
Prosecco, Bosco del Merlo
Frozen margarita with limoncello and tequila

Japan
“Roll” by Japan’s marketplace for an authentic sushi roll. Or, slake your thirst with a draft beer or sake.

Food:
Spicy hand roll: Tuna and salmon with Kazan Volcano sauce
Teriyaki gyoza bun: Steamed bun filled with chicken, vegetables and sweet teriyaki sauce
Miso Udon: steamed shrimp, vegetables, and noodles in a spicy broth

Beverages:
Kirin Draft Beer
Pineapple Fuzed Sake
Sake – Komatsu Tateaki Samurai
Sake – Suigei Drunken Whale*

Mexico
Come for the culture, stay for the food—enjoy tacos fresh from the grill while you get your fill of ice-cold cerveza.

To eat:
Tacos de camarón: Battered shrimp, pico de gallo, pickled onions, and chipotle mayonnaise
Chilaquiles de pollo: Corn chips layered with seasoned chicken, queso fresco, sour cream and cilantro
Pastel de elote con queso: sweet corn cheesecake

Beverages:
Dos Equis Lager Beer with Floater*
Mexican sangria
Tequila Flight
Guava margarita

Morocco
Make way for food inspired by the rugged mountainsides of this north African nation, including Berber cuisine and beer.

Food:
Kefta pocket: Ground seasoned beef in a pita pocket
Harissa chicken roll
Baklava

Beverages:
Casa Beer*
Guerouane White*
Sangria
Mimosa Royale

New Zealand
Savor the other side of the equator and taste what Kiwi pride is all about—enjoy treats from land, sea and vine.

Food:
Steamed green lip mussels with garlic butter and toasted bread crumbs
Seared venison loin with wild mushroom marsala sauce and kumara dumpling*
Lamb meatball with spicy tomato chutney

Beverages:
Kim Crawford Pinot Gris
Brancott Estate® Flight Song™ Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Kim Crawford Chardonnay
Nobilo Icon Pinot Noir*

Patagonia
Tempt your tastes with a sampling of South American cooking, inspired by the continent’s mountainous southern tip.

Food:
Beef empanada
Grilled beef skewer with chimichurri sauce and boniato purée*
Roasted Verlasso salmon with quinoa salad and arugula chimichurri

Beverages:
Undurraga Sparkling Wine Brut
Calle Ocho Chardonnay
Kaiken Torrontés
Terrazas Reserva Malbec

Poland
Take part in hearty Polish entrees while you whet your whistle with beer, wine and delicious vodka-based beverages.

To eat:
Kielbasa and potato pierogi with caramelized onions and sour cream
Sauerkraut pierogi with pork goulash*

Beverages:
Okocim Brewery, Okocim O.K. Beer
Donausonne® Blaufränkisch Hungarian Wine*
Frozen Szarlotka Apple Pie featuring Zubrowka Bison Grass Vodka

Refreshment Port

Food:
Croissant doughnut with cinnamon and sugar
Dole fruit bowl: choice of pineapple tidbits or mandarin slices
Fried chicken chunks with Dole pineapple sweet and sour sauce
Pineapple Dole® Whip soft-serve ice cream
Pineapple Dole Whip soft-serve ice cream with Bacardí® Coconut Rum

Beverages:
Dragon Berry Refresher featuring Bacardi Dragon Berry Rum

Refreshment Cool Post

Food:
spicy hot dogs with kimchi slaw and korean mustard

Beverages:
Mango Star featuring African Starr Rum t
frozen “Brown Elephant.”

Scotland
Set out into the Highlands and take your pick from one or more of several Scottish mainstays.

Food:
Haggis with neeps and tatties: Traditional Haggis with rutabaga and mashed potatoes
Fresh potato pancake with Scottish smoked salmon and herb sour cream *
Seared sea scallop with spinach-cheddar gratin and crispy bacon
The Tipsy Laird: Whiskey-soaked cake with lemon cream and toasted oats

Beverages:
Innis & Gunn® CASK OAK Aged Beer*
Brew Dog Punk Ale
Citrus Thistle featuring Hendrick’s Gin
Glenfiddich® Single Malt 12-Year Scotch
Glenfiddich® Single Malt 15-Year Scotch
Glenfiddich® Single Malt 18-Year Scotch
Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch flight (12-, 15- and 18-year)

South Korea
Complete your full-circle tour of authentic Asian tastes with a sizable serving of kimchi, a South Korean favorite.

Food:
Korean Barbecue Short Rib with Steamed Rice and Cucumber Kimchi*
Roasted pork lettuce wrap with kimchi slaw

Beverages:
iCing Grapefruit Sparkling Rice Brew
Myungjak Bokbunja Raspberry Wine*
Soju Banana Milkshake featuring The Ginger People® Ginger Soother®


Sustainable Chew — NEW!
Treat yourself to fresh and flavorful selections inspired by the magnificence of mother nature.

Food:
Pork Spareribs with red wine, fennel, and cheesy mascarpone grits
Ricotta & zucchini ravioli with tomato sauce
Vanilla panna cotta with fresh figs and pistachio brittle

Beverages:
Founders Spectra Trifecta (Chamomile Kolsch)
Frozen Chew-tini
Beso Del Sol White Sangria*


Wine Studio — NEW! 
Sip some of the incredible reds and whites that the American West Coast has to offer.

Food:
Trio of artisan cheese
Karst cave-aged cheese served with honey
La Bonne Vie goat cheese served with Craisin® bread
Rogue Creamery Oregon Blue Cheese with berry port compote

Beverages:
Avviato Pinot Grigio, Oregon
14 Hands Chardonnay, Washington
Franciscan Equilibrium White Wine, California
Acacia Pinot Noir, California
Dry Creek Zinfandel, California
Spellbound Petite Sirah, California
Clayhouse Malbec, California
Line 39 Cabernet Sauvignon, California

Pixar Takes D23 EXPO 2015 to Infinity and Beyond!

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Burbank, CA – Disney fans already know that the Anaheim Convention Center is the place to be from August 14–16. But when guests arrive at D23 EXPO 2015 on August 14, a larger-than-life Buzz Lightyear helium balloon will make it clear they’re in the right place. Our friends at Pixar have just announced their lineup of presentations, panels, and events taking place over the weekend and it has us feeling even more joyful than Joy in Inside Out. The wide variety of events pays homage to Pixar’s past, while looking ahead to its roster of exciting new films.

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Buzz Lightyear will welcome visitors to D23 EXPO 2015 as Pixar Animation Studios celebrates the 20-year anniversary of Toy Story. Buzz has taken flight in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade® six times as a giant character helium balloon, measuring 67.7 feet long, 39.9 feet wide, and 34.3 feet tall. Buzz’s appearance at Expo marks his first trip ever to the West Coast. Disney fans can see Buzz on Friday, but they can celebrate all things Pixar the whole weekend long. Here’s the lineup:

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Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios: The Upcoming Films, Hosted by John Lasseter
Friday, August 14, 3 p.m.—Hall D23

After meeting the Emotions inside the mind of an 11-year-old, taking a trip to San Fransokyo where a boy genius and his robot save the world, and falling in love with a queen with icy powers who wants to “let it go,” come see where Walt Disney and Pixar Animation Studios plan to take you next. In what has become a D23 EXPO must-see, host John Lasseter, Chief Creative Officer of Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios, presents Pixar and Walt Disney Animation Studios: The Upcoming Films. Filmmakers will unveil never-before-seen footage from Pixar’s upcoming The Good Dinosaur andFinding Dory and Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Zootopia and Moana. The event will include surprise announcements, musical performances, and appearances by the films’ star voice talent.Cell phones, cameras and all recording devices will be checked for this presentation.

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In Conversation with the Filmmakers and the Emotions Behind Inside Out
Friday, August 14, 11:30 a.m.—Stage 28

Get the inside story on the making of Pixar’s latest summer release, Inside Out. Hear from Academy Award®-winning director Pete Docter (Up, Monsters, Inc.) and producer Jonas Rivera (Up) as they reminisce and share their personal stories of creating a world that everyone knows, but no one has ever seen.

Pixar Secrets Revealed! Hear the Stories They Didn’t Want You to Know!
Saturday, August 15, 3 p.m.—Stage 28

Ever wonder where your favorite Pixar stories began? Hear the stories you don’t know about the classic films that you love. Pixar senior development executive Mary Coleman hosts this experience, welcoming the storytellers behind some of Pixar’s most successful films, including Darla K. Anderson (A Bug’s Life, Monsters, Inc., Cars, Toy Story 3), Mark Andrews (The Incredibles, Ratatouille, Brave), Ronnie del Carmen (Up, Inside Out), and Dan Scanlon (Cars, Toy Story 3, Monsters University), as they talk about the twists and turns of crafting a narrative and share some of the crazy story ideas that didn’t make the final cut.

Toy Story: 20 Years Later, the Original Crew Looks Back
Saturday, August 15, 2015, 4:30 p.m.—Stage 23

From flipbooks to feature films, animation has taken audiences to fantastical new worlds, far beyond the limits of any real-world setting. Pixar Animation Studios has been at the forefront of this evolution, blurring the line between art and technology and bringing beloved characters to life with heart and humor. As we celebrate the 20th anniversary of 1995’s Toy Story, the first computer-animated feature film, join members of the original crew, including filmmakers John Lasseter, Pete Docter, Andrew Stanton, Lee Unkrich, Galyn Susman, Ralph Eggleston, Sharon Calahan, Eben Ostby, Bob Pauley, and Bill Reeves as they share their stories and the challenges they faced along the way.

 

Tickets for D23 EXPO 2015 are available at a discounted price for a limited time. Through June 30, 2015, tickets are $67 for a one-day adult admission and $48 for children 3–12. Tickets for members of D23: The Official Disney Fan Club are $58 for a one-day adult admission and $42 for children. Multi-day money-saving tickets are also available. D23 Members can save as much as $188 off the price of admission, based on the purchase of four three-day tickets at the D23 Member rate. For more information on tickets and the ticket pricing structure for D23 Members and general admission, visit D23EXPO.com.

HOLLYWOOD STUDIO’S “BROWN DERBY” by Bill Iadonisi

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Hello, Hollywood Ð Dine like a celebrity in the Golden Age of Hollywood at The Hollywood Brown Derby at DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios. This gourmet American cuisine restaurant is an authentic replica of the original Brown Derby that was a longstanding Hollywood landmark. The menu features world-famous Cobb salad, steaks, seafood, pasta specialties and fine international wines. DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Scott Miller, photographer)

Located between the Starring Rolls Café and the Animation courtyard, Disney’s Brown Derby restaurant is an exact replica of the famous eatery in Los Angeles during the Golden age of Hollywood. It was a beacon for the Hollywood elite and gave birth to the famous “Cobb Salad” which was actually invented by Robert Cobb, one of the owners of the restaurant and has been the highlight of the menu here.

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The Derby here at the Studios is a Disney signature restaurant, meaning if you have the Disney Dining plan, it will require 2 plans for one meal. You enter the restaurant under a long brown canopy and enter a small ante room. Here you will find a taste of things to come. Adorning the walls are caricatures of the famous celebrities of the day and many pictures and descriptions of who’s who in them and the years they were taken. It is well themed, and you may actually expect Lucille Ball or John Wayne to walk in! Joining my wife and I this evening were friends Steve and Vicki Barrett, whom like us, love to dine out at Disney. Our Reservation was for 5:30pm and a few minutes after checking in, our table was ready.

As with the check-in room, the main dining hall is beautifully themed with the pictures and caricatures on all the walls. The large dining room is surrounded by dark wood and overhead there are large period chandeliers. The architecture and warm light colored walls harkens back to the original. Circling the main dining area tables that are on a higher tier, many by the windows. After we were seated, our waiter was right there to take our drink orders. The Derby has a nice wine and after Dinner drink menu. They offer Dessert Wines by the ½ bottle or 3 oz pour, Ports, Sherries and Madeira and a fine list of cognacs and Armagnac’s.

A new patio lounge at The Hollywood Brown Derby offers DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios guests a relaxing place beneath shade umbrellas where they can sip wine, beer and cocktails and enjoy small bites such as artisanal cheeses, duck confit tacos, Derby sliders and more. The new lounge, which opened October 2013, also features a delightful dessert menu with Chocolate Three Ways, a banana-white chocolate toffee tower on a cocoa-almond cookie, bananas Foster and strawberry Champagne cheesecake. Seating is first-come, first-served. DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios is located at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Matt Stroshane, photographer)

After ordering drinks, my wife ordered the Blue Jumbo Lump Crab Cake appetizer, which was accompanied with potato crust, green cabbage slaw and Dijon Mustard and Remoulade Sauce. I had the roasted Sea Scallop with smoked bacon, summer peas, sweet corn Risotto and Lemon Aioli. Both appetizers were very good, the Crab Cake had a good balance of crab and breading. Since my wife does not care for slaw, I got to enjoy it! This was well made, fresh and crispy. My Sea Scallop was good, but scallops by themselves really have a bland taste so Hardwood smoked bacon helped enhance the flavor. Our server was prompt with the refills on the drink order and when it came time for the entrée, he was very helpful with suggestions. Steve ordered the Grilled Atlantic Salmon, his wife Vicki had the Split roasted Half Chicken. I was very tempted to order the signature dish, the Cobb Salad, but instead I had to try the Pan roasted Duck Breast and Venison Sausage. I am a big fan of venison and know it is a difficult meat to prepare properly, so that is a good test of a chef’s expertise. My wife is sort of a picky eater at times and gravitated to the Char-grilled New York Strip Steak which came with Roasted Red Potatoes and Cremini Mushrooms.

My experience dining at Disney has always been a pleasurable one, and this time was no different. The wait staff on property, for me has always been one of the best parts of the meal because of the special way the guests are treated. Their knowledge of the menus and recommendations when you cannot decide what you want are spot-on. You will enjoy the same here at the Derby. The atmosphere here is also nice, with the décor and pictures on the walls; you could actually believe you are in Hollywood during its heyday. The only complaint that we had was that the noise level is very high. This eatery is very popular and this is to be expected, so you may get that romantic dinner in, but it will not be too quiet.

Hello, Hollywood Ð Dine like a celebrity in the Golden Age of Hollywood at The Hollywood Brown Derby at DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios. This gourmet American cuisine restaurant is an authentic replica of the original Brown Derby that was a longstanding Hollywood landmark. The menu features world-famous Cobb salad, steaks, seafood, pasta specialties and fine international wines. DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Scott Miller, photographer)

My wife liked the New York Strip, but compared to the rest of our meals, it was just an ordinary steak, but was cooked just the way she liked it. My Roasted Duck breast was very tender and went very well with the Fresno Chili Jam. And I can report that the Chef certainly knows how to prepare venison, the sausages were outstanding! At first, I did not know if I would like the Lentils, but they were as outstanding as the sausages. They had a unique flavor and texture, and I know I will order this dish again. Steve’s Atlantic salmon was excellent, I know this because during the meal, he was very quiet, just enjoying the meal. The salmon was firm and was well balanced with the Balsamic Glaze and Gorgonzola cheese, which is very strong. Steve also said he would repeat this order. Vicki’s chicken, which was two large pieces, was very good. She liked the flavor of the Maple vinegar Sauce, but said she would get something more “exciting” next time around.

The food here at the Derby is very well prepared and presented, but my only complaint is that I believe the portions should be a little bigger. For example the Jumbo Lump Crab Cake for $ 11.00 could have been a bit bigger or there should have been two smaller ones served. Other than that, the Brown Derby, with its décor and fascinating history is a must stop when you visit the Hollywood Studios. Outside the Derby is a nice outdoor courtyard to enjoy lunch, the tables having red umbrellas over them and there is a wall and wrought iron fence for privacy. If you are a fan of the original Cobb Salad, this is the place to experience it. It is excellent!

Hello, Hollywood Ð Dine like a celebrity in the Golden Age of Hollywood at The Hollywood Brown Derby at DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios. This gourmet American cuisine restaurant is an authentic replica of the original Brown Derby that was a longstanding Hollywood landmark. The menu features world-famous Cobb salad, steaks, seafood, pasta specialties and fine international wines. DisneyÕs Hollywood Studios is one of four theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. (Scott Miller, photographer)

The restaurant takes the Disney Dining Experience. It is open for lunch from 11:30am to 3:00pm and Dinner is 3:30pm to park closing. Prices are from $15.00 to $35.99 per person. A child’s menu is offered. Specialty celebration cakes are available which must be ordered 48 hours in advance. The restaurant is also available for the Fantasmic Dinner package. As will all Disney Restaurants, special dietary needs can be accommodated. Reservations are strongly suggested and can be made by calling (407) WDW-DINE (939-3463)