Explore our Etsy shop brimming with fun Disney items.

Disney Parks Podcast

All the Disney Parks in One Podcast

INFO: How to Get the Best Firework Views, Part II

By

Photo by David Roark

Unlike at Magic Kingdom, where everyone is packed tight like a school of fish, facing Cinderella’s Castle, EPCOT’s fireworks can be admired 360 degrees around the World Showcase lagoon. This means that, regardless of where you decide to park yourself, you will get a view of the fireworks.

Of course, some areas may be disputed as better than others, yet the HarmoniUS barges appear to be capable of putting on a show visible even in outer space- so I wouldn’t fret much over where to get the best view of this new nighttime spectacular coming in October.

As mentioned in the previous blog post, viewing fireworks from a seated location at a restaurant may not always go as planned. Requests for specific seating may or may not be possible, and this will require a very early arrival and much patience on your end. Keep that in mind for the restaurant recommendations that follow.

Now, for the list of locations throughout the World Showcase, as well as an ideal area outside the park, with better views of EPCOT’s upcoming reappearance of EPCOT Forever and HarmoniUS debut:

 

Rose & Crown Dining Room. This may present a challenge, as the United Kingdom Pavilion is one of the most crowded pavilions thanks to this popular dining location (and waterholes). However, if you are willing to wait for your table, it is worth all your patience. Kindly request outdoor seating at the back patio for the best views.

La Hacienda de San Angel. Most tables will have a view, as the floor-to-ceiling windows face the lagoon. Extra points if your table is, indeed, a window table.

Spice Road Table. Though there may be a slight chance of snagging a window table indoors, there’s a better chance to get a full view if dining outdoors with a table beside the gates. Arrive early – reservations are no longer offered at this location.

If you don’t want to fight for a table (I do not condone fighting for any reason whatsoever at Walt Disney World), then I do not recommend locations like Cantina de San Angel or seating areas like that alongside the Yorkshire County Fish Shop. The race to claim a table and share space with others who are also squeezing in for a comfortable view just isn’t worth it.

Photo by Jing Xi Lau on Unsplash

Don’t have a dining reservation nor care to eat? Head over to the Japan Pavilion. Just above the Mitsukoshi Department Store is a large balcony offering elevated and unobstructed views of the lagoon. Note, if you are standing in front of a window, though, chances are you are the obstruction for someone dining at Tokyo Dining.

Another place with great views is right on the bridge between the United Kingdom and France Pavilions. This is usually where I stop and stand for the show, especially when I am staying at the Beach Club –  I can walk to the resort without having to deal with the crowds exiting the park. Disney’s EPCOT area resorts are Yacht and Beach Club Resorts and BoardWalk Inn. Even without a park ticket, a visit to this area will bring you close enough to enjoy the illuminated night sky. Get an ice cream at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop or the new Boardwalk Ice Cream Shop, or warm up with a cup of coffee from the Boardwalk Bakery, and watch the fireworks from the walkway bridge that connects the Boardwalk Inn and Beach Club Resort. The Disney Skyliner is a convenient mode of transportation to access this location – the skyliner stops at the International Gateway at EPCOT and is just a stroll away.

 

Where do you go to view the EPCOT fireworks?

Are you disappointed still that Illuminations has ended?

How do you feel about the anticipated debut of HarmoniUS?

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

INFO: How to Get the Best Firework Views, Part I

By

With news of fireworks returning at Walt Disney World July 1, and the new nighttime spectaculars taking to the skies for the world’s biggest 50th anniversary celebration this October, you may want to know where to be for the best (or simply better) views of Disney’s pyrotechnic displays. Surprisingly, that doesn’t necessarily require a park ticket. 

Photo by D2Travel Agent Jamie Swanson

In this post, let’s focus on Magic Kingdom Park.

It’s time to prepare for the return of Happily Ever After and the debut of Disney Enchantment over, and on, Cinderella’s Castle. There are several dining options that offer potential viewing of Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectaculars. Note use of the word potential. Since castle projections are just as part of the show as the fireworks, appreciating this anywhere other than center stage on Main Street most likely won’t have the full effect of the overall experience. Also, there isn’t much guarantee that window seating or firework views from indoors will be unobstructed or even available at the time of the reservation. That said, if you do have a dinner reservation, arrive early and kindly request a firework view seating. Your reservation should also be up to one hour before the scheduled firework show. 

Now, for the list of Disney’s Resorts and restaurants with a view of Magic Kingdom fireworks:

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Dine window-side at ‘Ohana, or simply head to the beach for fireworks viewing. Once construction is complete and the resort is accessible via monorail again, it shouldn’t be too difficult to hop on over here.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Enjoy dinner with fireworks, and the music which accompanies the show, at the California Grill. Just visiting? Step outside on the fourth floor observation deck. California Grill also has its own observation deck, and, if you have eaten there earlier in the evening, be sure to keep your receipt. This may be used to gain access to the 15th floor deck to watch the fireworks as an end cap to a magical day.

Disney’s Grand Floridian. Get all fancy and splurge at Narcoossee’s (piped in music included). There’s a viewing deck around the restaurant as well. For a more affordable option that doesn’t require a reservation and bank account, opt for outdoor patio seating at the Quick-Service restaurant Gasparilla Island Grill.

 

In the Magic Kingdom Park…

Have a park ticket? Ready to deal with the infamous crowds at park closing? If you answered yes, I admire your bravery. Use it wisely to grab seats, or a table, outdoors at Casey’s Corner (which appears to be opening soon) or the Plaza Ice Cream Parlor. Speaking of the area, Plaza Restaurant does have limited window space indoors with a firework view. Don’t count on getting it. You’ll need faith, trust, pixie dust, patience, and luck for any of these locations to deliver the magic you anticipate!

 

If dessert parties return at Tomorrowland Terrace, this may very well be the best option for guaranteed views of the fireworks and castle. This does come with a cost, yet you really can’t put a price on champagne, desserts, and fireworks at Magic Kingdom. Can you? Let’s just hope, for now, that dessert parties make a comeback – at least by October!

Finally, this may be unconventional and unexpected – the view isn’t ideal, but it is different. I’m referring to the inside of Cinderella’s Castle and dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table. Fireworks that set off from behind the castle may be seen from the inside, especially if seated by a window, and the bright mosaic of flickering colors will surely make the dining experience uniquely surprising and delightful.

That wraps up this half of firework views at Walt Disney World. Stay tuned for the next post that will give insight to the best locations for views of the EPCOT firework shows- including the most anticipated HarmoniUS.

 

 

 

Where do you prefer to be to watch Magic Kingdom’s firework shows?

Are you anticipating Disney Enchantment in October? 

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.
Special Thanks to Jamie Swanson for her photo of Cinderella’s Castle. You can find Jamie on Instagram @vacationswithjamie

INFO: How to Survive on a Special Diet at Walt Disney World

By

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be intense. Aside from the very real FOMO we get when mapping out all there is to do during those vacation days, there’s also the worry about what the weather will be like, what to wear, which rides require a FastPass, and, most importantly, where to eat!

Let’s be honest with ourselves, it always, ultimately, comes down to food. About three times a day, we are always racking our brains on figuring out where and what to eat – there’s just too many options to choose from! Yet, what if those options are suddenly diet-restricted? Whether it be a life choice or mandatory dietary requirement, eating out can be a challenging obstacle for those who follow special diets like gluten-free, dairy-free, wheat-free, vegan and vegetarian, etc. Also, many of us can’t let go of our diets for other heath-related issues. That said, it is encouraging to know that Disney has it all covered.

Years ago, special dietary requests required speaking directly with a chef or special diets Cast Member to place an order. Though guests may still consult when in doubt, Disney has expanded their mindful food offerings – and they can be ordered directly from the menu at most dining locations.

As for vegetarians and vegans, you may be surprised to know that plant-based options are available at most locations throughout the parks and Disney Springs (even at outdoor kitchens at EPCOT festivals). In fact, meatless options have been noted on menus with a green leaf icon since 2019.

Curious about which dining locations would best meet your dietary needs? Go to Walt Disney World’s website, click on Things To Do, then All Restaurants. From there, you can view all the menus and food offerings at every restaurant. If your eyes need more convincing, check out Vegan Disney World on Instagram or here. All the photos featured below are from this very knowledgeable blogger who has been sharing vegan food (and gluten-free options as well) since 2014! You will find suggestions on dishes and dining locations that will have you traveling like a foodie pro!

Do you have a special diet or  food-allergy? If so, where are your favorite go-to dining spots in Walt Disney World?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

 

INFO: How to Brunch at Walt Disney World

By

Two of my favorite meals of the day are brunch and brinner. Any brinner fans out there by the way? Though brinner hasn’t caught on yet as I could hope for, most restaurants have jumped on the demand for that mid-morning mash up. Once considered an elite meal-time, brunch has become quite commonplace, and with that, some very typical dishes like Eggs Benedict and Avocado Toast are expected everywhere. At Walt Disney World though, especially Disney Springs, brunch is far from typical and ordinary- and delivers the unexpected.

So, make your reservation in advance, stay in bed a little later than usual, and get your appetite ready for these Disney Springs Brunch Fixin’s.

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, House-Made Doughnuts

 

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, Fried Chicken & Doughnuts

House of Blues Restaurant and Bar, Saturdays and Sundays from 10AM-2PM

Speaking of Fixin’s, any place that offers a side of Garlic Home Fries or Brown Sugar Chile Bacon has my attention. Add bottomless Mimosas or Bloody Mary’s to that, and this place is undoubtedly right up my alley! 

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin, Saturdays and Sundays from [9:30]AM-1PM

The Rise & Shine Southern Brunch is true homestyle, Southern comfort. Fried Chicken and house-made Sugar Doughnuts come together in one dish like yin and yang. As for those doughnuts, they do come separately as a starter, piled with pecans and bacon and a whole lotta love! The Hush Puppy Benedict is another win- a Southern spin on a classic with (can you guess?) fried chicken in a deck of a poached egg, country ham, and pimiento hollandaise.

 

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant, Full Irish Breakfast

 

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, Saturdays from 11AM-3PM/Sundays from 10AM-3PM

There’s nothing typical about the menu offerings here! Though you could go old-school for Brunchy Stuff like the Full Irish Breakfast, why not be daring and dig into some Whiskey BBQ Lollipop Chicken? Or a Lobster Club with lobster, egg, prosciutto and a side of Irish chips? If you are looking for Vegan or Gluten-Free options, it’s on the menu, too. The Rollicking Raglan Brunch even comes with entertainment, starting at noon.

STK Steakhouse, Lobster & Shrimp Eggs Benedict

STK Steakhouse, Saturdays and Sundays from 11AM-3PM

If you want to splurge and take brunch to a level that would impress someone, this is it. Of course, you’ll be paying for food you will want to savor to the last bite, like Dry-Aged Delmonico Steak, Truffle Steak & Egg (not your average Walmart slab- this is wagyu beef), and additions like Parmesan Truffle Fries, Lobster Mac & Cheese, and King Crab Oscar. And, yes, Bottoms Up on Mimosas and Bloody Mary’s.

 

The BOATHOUSE, Brunch Cocktails

 

The BOATHOUSE, Sundays from 10AM-3PM

Stunning waterfront views, dueling piano entertainment, and consistent top-rating reviews may be just a few reasons to make this your next brunch date. The Captain’s Sing Along Brunch serves brunch fare that’s not far from ordinary- Smoked Salmon Bagel and Avocado Toast. Yet, what makes it worthwhile, truly, is that you can order from the normal menu as well. Added fun factor- wearing a captain’s hat or BOATHOUSE shirt will get you a free mimosa!

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, Sundays from 10AM-[1:30]PM

Brace yourself for this dish- Nutella-stuffed French Toast topped with Warm Berries and Mascarpone Whipped Cream…Oh…My..! And if that doesn’t do it for you, or you want something savory, there’s plenty of Maria & Enzo’s Signature Dishes on the menu as well. Still, if Melanzane alla Parmigiana seems much for the morning, you could just start off with something simpler- like an Italian Breakfast Board served with soft, scrambled eggs.

 

 

 

Now, would you stay in, take it slow for a day, and enjoy a brunch during your vacation at Walt Disney World?

Have you tried any of these locations for brunch and care to share your experience?

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

INFO: Character Dining Outside the Parks

By

One experience that seems to appear on everyone’s must-do list during a Walt Disney World vacation is character dining. Many people pair that experience with a reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom. The two go hand-in-hand, and though the latter should be done at least once in life (yes, that should be on your bucket list whether you love Disney or not), it isn’t the only dining location where one can meet Cinderella, or any character for that matter.

Since the start of the pandemic, many restaurants are still temporarily unavailable. Add the need for a Park Pass in the process- the planning involved in making a reservation can easily become an overwhelming task. How to make your vacation simpler? Look into dining experiences outside the parks.

Character dining has been modified for the sake of social distancing, amongst other COVID restrictions. Rather than stopping by tables for hugs, photos and autographs, characters now march on through the restaurants as a cavalcade. Autographs are presented at the table, usually, on a card before the end of the meal. Meals that were once served as a buffet are now brought to the table either family style or with a prix fixe menu instead. Despite all of this, a character dining experience should be enjoyed during your stay, especially if little ones (and young ones at heart) are part of your travelling party. 

The following are all the places you can find yourself dining with a character outside the parks- some even rarely seen anywhere else! Note: Advance reservations strongly recommended. For booking at Four Seasons Resort Orlando, call (407) 313-6161. Experiences with an asterisk (*)  are currently unavailable during the phased reopening of Walt Disney World Resorts and restaurants. 

 

Chef Mickey’s Family Feast

Location: Chef Mickey’s, Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Highlight: Celebration Mickey Pancake, Loaded Potato Cheese Casserole, Harvest Sweet Rolls

Price: Adult $42/Child ages 9 and under $27

Characters: Mickey, Donald Duck, Minnie, Goofy, and Pluto

Allergy-friendly: Options available

 

Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals

Location: Ravello, Four Seasons Resort Orlando. Saturdays only.

Highlight: Meals include Bakery Basket and Sliced Fruit.

Price: Adult $48/Child ages 12 and under $28

Characters: Mickey, Minnie, and Goofy

Allergy-friendly: Options available

 

Breakfast a la Art with Mickey and Friends. Riviera Resort. Photos by Destinations to Travel with Jenni Maier

 

 

Breakfast a la Art with Mickey & Friends

Location: Topolino’s Terrace, Disney’s Riviera Resort

Highlight: Meals include bakery basket

Price: Adult $42/Child ages 9 and under $27

Characters: Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy Duck

Allergy-friendly: Options available

 

 

*Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast

Location: Cape May Café, Disney’s Beach Club

Highlight: Mickey Waffles, Chocolate Pancakes

Price: Adult $42/Child ages 9 and under $27

Characters: Minnie, Goofy, Donald and Daisy Duck

Allergy-friendly: Guide available upon request

 

*Best Friends Breakfast feat. Lilo & Stitch

Location: ‘Ohana, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Highlight: Hawaiian Pork Sausages and Ham, Island-Style Fried Potatoes

Price: Adult $42/Child ages 9 and under $27

Characters: Lilo and Stitch

Allergy-friendly: Guide available upon request

 

Prince Eric at Trattoria al Forno. Photo by Destinations To Travel with Tina Farmer.

*Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast

Location: Trattoria al Forno, Disney’s Boardwalk

Highlight: Flounder’s Flapjacks, Steak & Eggs, Poached Eggs w/Sausage, Polenta, & Focaccia

Price: Varies

Characters: Rapunzel and Flynn Rider, Ariel and Prince Eric

Allergy-friendly: Options available

 

 

 

The Evil Queen, Story Book Dining at Artist Point. Photo by Destinations To Travel with Tina Farmer.

*Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White

Location: Artist Point, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Highlight: Shared Appetizers and Shared Desserts

Price: Adult $60/Child ages 9 and under $39

Characters: Snow White, the Seven Dwarfs, and the Evil Queen

Allergy-friendly: Guide available upon request

This last location has 3 Character Dining Experiences…

Supercalifragilistic Breakfast, Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner, and Wonderland Tea Party

Location: 1900 Park Fare, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Allergy-friendly: Guide available upon request

1900 Park Fare. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Photo by Destinations To Travel with Katie Prevot.

 

*The Supercalifragilistic Breakfast includes character visits from Mary Poppins, Alice in Wonderland, The Mad Hatter, Tigger and Winnie the Pooh.

Price: Adult $45/Child ages 9 and under $29

*Cinderella’s Happily Ever After Dinner presents Cinderella and Prince Charming with a worldly menu.

Price: Adult $60/Child ages 9 and under $39

*Wonderland Tea Party is a dining and crafts event for children ages 4 to 12, Monday through Friday, from 2-3pm. Features Alice in Wonderland and The Mad Hatter.

Price: Child $49.

 

 

Have you dined at any of the locations listed? Would any of these replace the iconic Cinderella’s Royal Table at Cinderella’s Castle?

Where have you enjoyed the best character dining experience?

 

 Thinking about booking your next Disney Destination Vacation?
I can help you in the planning and the making of a magical getaway! Send me an email adrianabonetti@d2travel.com
                                                                                                                         You can also find me on Facebook Destinations To Travel With Adriana Bonetti and Instagram @D2TravelAdriana.

Special Thanks to fellow colleagues and independent travel agents at Destinations To Travel for their collaboration with photographs from their own travels!

A Taste of Wine Bar George

By

Wine Bar George is one of the most highly anticipated additions to the vibrant food and beverage scene at Disney Springs. This 200-seat wine bar, scheduled to open soon, is centrally located at The Landing. The space is reminiscent of a winemaker’s home, complete with terrace seating that has sweeping views of Disney Springs and the waterfront stage.

Wine Bar George will offer more than 130 selections by the ounce, glass, and bottle in a range of varietals, vintages, and prices. Acclaimed wineries as well as up-and-coming growing regions and wineries will be featured along with small plates, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and sharable entrées designed to complement the wine list.

The biggest reason for all the excitement is George Miliotes himself – renown wine expert, native Floridian, and Disney alum. A celebrity in the wine world, George is a Master Sommelier – one of only 249 in the world. In fact, Wine Bar George is the only wine bar in Florida owned by a Master Sommelier.

Wine Opener at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

We gladly accepted the invitation from George to stop by his home to taste (and sip!) some of the highlights from Wine Bar George. Executive Chef Ron Rupert, who will be at the helm of all things culinary at Wine Bar George, also joined us. My partner, Alex Dunlap, captured some shots of what will be offered and, no surprise, everything was delicious – on the plate and in the glass!

George poured two very special wines to taste – both are listed on the menu under “Outstanding by the Ounce.” These exceptional wines are selected by George in partnership with the respective winery. These wines can be ordered by 1 oz, 3 oz, or 6 oz pours or by the bottle.

Selbach Oster Bottle at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

For the first wine, George met with owner/winemaker Johannes Selbach to secure a delicious Selbach-Oster, Bömer Riesling – dry, crisp, lush, and very food-friendly. The second wine – Antinori Guado al Tasso – is an incredible Super Tuscan made from the classic Bordeaux grapes with Cabernet Sauvignon as the star. George snagged the wine direct from the winery in vintages from 2004 through 2013.

Ron’s philosophy in the kitchen at Wine Bar George is simple. “I want to create delicious food that pairs well with wine. I pull flavors from around the world that are relevant – that create memories.” Here is a sneak peek at some of his dishes.

The Big Board at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

The Big Board – An impressive selection of six artisan cheeses and five crafted meats that serves two or more.

Grilled Octopus at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

Grilled Octopus with Lemon Vinaigrette – This light and refreshing salad has tender pieces of Spanish octopus (a result of grilling then chilling the octopus) with a touch of acidity from the lemon vinaigrette.

Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites – These crispy cheesy bites are surprisingly light. Served with tomato nage and Pecorino, they are Ron’s imaginative take on a grilled cheese with tomato soup.

Porchetta Spiced Pork Cheeks at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

Porchetta Spiced Pork Cheeks – Served with a creamy three-cheese polenta, these small bites of meaty goodness are cooked long and slow to perfection. The orange gremolata takes it over the top.

Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass – One of the “family-style plates” that serves two or more, this light and tender whole fish is served with cannelloni bean ragoût and seasonal vegetables.

Olive Oil Cake at Wine Bar George Menu Preview

Olive Oil Cake – This moist cake with a rich olive oil flavor is served with candied olives and lemon mascarpone.

Glass of Selbach Oster Wine at Wine Bar George

When the doors open to Wine Bar George, expect something special. “It is my responsibility to bring joy to the wine list and the experience,” said George. “I want Wine Bar George to encourage conversations of what is brilliant and special in the wine world.”

Menu Revealed for Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort & is now OPEN

By

Spyglass Grill, the the new quick-service eatery located at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, has opened today!  We have the first look at the menu featured at this new eatery. The venue is located between the pool and the beach at Trinidad South within the resort.

Spyglass Grill Chorizo Burger with Crispy Pork Belly, Provolone and Potato Straws served with French Fries

Lunch & Dinner

Entrées
  • Chorizo Burger $13.99
    Crispy Pork Belly, Provolone and Potato Straws served with French Fries
  • Angus Chuck Bacon Cheeseburger $12.99
    Angus Beef with Bacon and Cheese topped with Lettuce and Tomato
  • Cuban Sandwich $11.49
    Pulled Pork, Ham, Swiss, Pickles and Mustard served with Plantain and Yuca Chips
  • Smoked Turkey Breast Sandwich $10.49
    Avocado, Bacon, Lettuce and Tomato served with Plantain and Yuca Chips
  • Caribbean Taco Trio (spiced fish, shredded beef or jerk chicken) $9.99
    choice of three Tacos topped with Pickled Vegetables, Cabbage, Cilantro Crema, Cotija Cheese and Pico de Gallo served with Plantain and Yuca Chips
  • Vegan Black Bean Caribbean Taco $8.49
    with Pickled Vegetables, Cabbage and Pico de Gallo served with Plantain and Yuca Chips

Continue Reading …

Disney Parks Podcast Show #391 – Whats NEW at Epcot Food & Wine for 2017

By

Disney Parks Podcast Show #391 - Whats NEW at Epcot Food & Wine for 2017

Disney Parks Podcast Show #391 – Whats new at Epcot Food & Wine for 2017

In this episode, Tony and Parkhopper John and special guest Kristen Hoetzel-Go from Dining at Disney discuss all the new booths and food items for the Epcot Food & Wine festival 2017.

Continue Reading …

Listen to the Episode Below