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

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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.

 

A Taste of Wine Bar George

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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

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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 …

Picking your WDW Resort with Kids and Teens!

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Figuring out what resort you want to stay at during your Walt Disney World vacation is one of the most important decisions you will make……… that is for most people. Some people just see it as a place where you will sleep and that it doesn’t matter that much. For me it is much more than that. It is a place where you will make so many memories and also a respite from the rush of the parks. You also want to make sure your children are going to enjoy it so the magic doesn’t stop at the parks! So how are you going to pick which one to stay at? I have some suggestions that may just help you out.

  1. Look at the resorts theme: Depending on the age of the group you’re traveling with will have a big influence on what resort you decide to stay at. If you have children you may want to look at some heavily themed resorts including Art of Animation, Pop Century, or any of the All-Star resorts. These resorts are perfect for children as they are based around movies, characters, and other things kids love! I personally really enjoy the Art of Animation as you get to experience 4 different Disney movies with 3 different pools. My personal favorite resort is Port Orleans Riverside. This is a really good resort if you are traveling with teenagers.
  2. Price: For many pricing is their first priority when planning a Disney vacation. You should be aware that your resort choice will have a big impact on how much your vacation is going to cost. There are 4 different price levels for Disney resorts: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas. The children themed resorts we listed above are in the value category, while Port Orleans is moderate. Your deluxe resorts include the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Animal Kingdom Lodge, along with others. If you have a tight budget and don’t want to spend that much I would recommend the value resorts even if you don’t have children. The Art of Animation is a great resort for teenagers as well! If you do plan on staying at a value, you should know, that for the most part the value resorts will be more crowded due to the price and kid friendly theme. Moderate resorts are great for those willing to spend a little bit more and want a more relaxed resort. I would recommend a deluxe resort for special family celebrations!
  3. Food: Not all resort food courts are the same. Most resorts have awesome food available while others may not have as many options available. I really enjoy the food at all of the resorts I have mentioned, especially Riverside. The Riverside Mill has a variety of options and is an amazing building to relax in. When you’re looking into what resort to stay at definitely look at what kind of food they offer. These quick services will come in really handy before an early morning or long day. Most resorts also have a sit down restaurant that you can reserve seating for.

Now that you have some tips on how to choose what resort to stay at it’s time to pick! Your kids/teens will have an amazing time but picking a resort they’ll love will make it even more magical. There is still a lot to talk about with resorts but this the basic outline of what to look for. Now, I would love to hear what your favorite is or any tips that you have!

By Teen Blogger Noah

Noah has been visiting Walt Disney World ever since he was a little kid and has a deep passion for the parks. He wants to share this passion with everyone and help bring a little bit of Disney magic to your life. 

Check Out Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas Savory Dishes

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If you have not been to Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas , its time you head back and check out this restaurant.  It sits on the water of Disney Springs so it has some great views of the water between Disney Springs and Saratoga Springs and you can watch the boats on the water, have a snack, or cocktails and best of all Lunch or Dinner.

Additionally, Paradiso 37 will be offering the full menu for Cinco de Mayo which includes the dishes that were part of our tasting, plus one special dish: Fried Snapper! There will also be a margarita cart offering margaritas for $16 each, and a live Mariachi band to begin performing at 5 p.m.

Description:

Savor unique dishes from the Americas, along with a bustling bar scene at night.

This lively watering hole overlooking Village Lake features 2 levels and large windows with stunning views. Brightly colored booths and accents lend a Latin flair inside, while ample seating on the spacious patio and a dedicated outdoor bar make it perfect for dining al fresco.

Live music from [5:00] PM until close, a “tequila tower” stacked with 37 varieties—each 100% agave—and an international rum bar qualify Paradiso 37 as a bona fide nighttime hotspot for fiesta-animals ages 21 and older.

A Tale of Two Continents
Check out the vintage travel posters and oversized passport stamps on the walls—accentuating the globe-trotting theme—while diverse flavors take your taste buds on a tantalizing trek across culinary borders.

The journey begins with several sumptuous starters hailing from North, Central and South America. First, dip your toes—or better, your tortilla chips—into house-made guacamole or Peruvian-style ceviche. In the mood for even more zest? Feast on some fire-roasted corn on the cob!

For those seeking more substantial fare, Paradiso 37 offers enticing entrees like Brazilian roasted half-chicken, Baja fish tacos, grilled Chilean salmon, South Carolina-style pork ribs and Argentinian skirt steak plus a pan-American panoply of mouth-watering burgers, sandwiches and salads.

Make your reservations  or check out the full menu

Here is just a sampling of the some of the mouth watering dishes

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This Cinco De Mayo, and any day Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas is your place for great flavors and tasty dishes.

Disclosure Statement: “We were not financially compensated for this post. We received a sample for review purposes. The opinions are completely our own based on our experience”

All New Planet Hollywood Observatory is NOW OPEN

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Okay I am a huge movie fan, I love movies!  I like going to the movies, or watching them at home in my little home theater.  I have been a fan of Planet Hollywood since they first opened, so much so that I was at the opening of the one in New York City just to get a glimpse of Arnold, Sly, Bruce and Demi, who back in the day were part of all the openings.  I used to have a collection of polo shirts from many Planet Hollywood restaurants I collected while traveling.

Now Planet Hollywood has been completely reimagined. There are some great additions to the NEW Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs. They added a huge patio off the second floor, with its own bar and beautiful view of Disney Springs. They built another bar area on the ground level called Stargazers. They have 4 floors, a huge indoor video ceiling, that plays popular videos. The movie artifacts have all been updated. The Stargazers lounge, a 5,000-square-foot outdoor expansion overlooking Disney Springs, allows guests to relax under the stars while enjoying cocktails and live entertainment al fresco.

Its really All About the Food…..

The menu has been updated and has a some new flair from a very popular chef Guy Feieri. Fans will embrace the return of classics such as World Famous Chicken Crunch with Creole mustard sauce playfully plated in a chicken-shaped dish; Nachos Grande piled high with chipotle chicken, cheese and black bean sauce, cruda salsa verde, pico de gallo, queso fresco and sour cream; L.A. Lasagna a fried take on this comfort food favorite with Bolognese sauce, roasted garlic cream and tomato basil sauces; and the epic High Roller Platter, a celebration of “best-ofs” with the Chicken Crunch, Texas Tostados, Buffalo Wings, Cheesy Spinach Dip, Peri-Peri Shrimp served in a uniquely designed Ferris-wheel dish.

For those drawn to delicious indulgences, head straight for Fieri’s new “Big Bite Burgers” and “Signature Sandwiches.” The six burger choices, which are not to be missed, include Fieri’s award-winning Bacon Mac-N-Cheese with applewood smoked bacon, six-cheese mac-n-cheese, cheddar, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, crispy onion straws, Fieri’s signature Donkey Sauce, garlic-buttered brioche bun; The Mayor of Flavortown seasoned pastrami, swiss cheese, caraway slaw, pickles, Dijon mustard and Donkey Sauce on a garlic-buttered pretzel bun; and the Prime Time American Kobe with American-style kobe beef, smoked gouda, cheddar, caramelized onion jam, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, crispy onion straws, Donkey Sauce, garlic-buttered brioche bun .

A Lobster Feast Fra Diavolo, a spaghetti favorite served in a whole lobster shell and a Sesame Ginger Salmon with cilantro rice are two of eight gussied-up specialty offerings. Steak and rib selections – including the 20 ounce, bone-in NY Strip Steak for two served with roasted garlic and herb butter, steak fries and green bean blend – can now be upgraded to “surf & turf” status with the accompaniment of a whole steamed lobster.

 

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Vegetarians will rejoice with Fieri’s take on the scratch-made Morgan’s Veggie, a burger of black and white beans, chickpeas, oats, artichokes, roasted red pepper with cilantro aioli, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, toasted wheat bun and a Pimento Grilled Cheese six-cheese mac-n-cheese, pimento cheese, garlic-buttered sourdough. Healthy options for guests include a selection of five fresh salads like the Citrus Kale, a combination of kale, julienned broccoli, slivered Brussels sprouts and cabbage, feta, grapefruit, oranges, cranberries, sunflowers seeds, agave dressing; and Spinach & Berries with candied walnuts, bleu cheese crumbles and balsamic vinaigrette.

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

Check this out on your next visit to Disney Springs and let us know what you think in the comments below.

 

 

*****Full disclosure John and I were invited guests of Planet Hollywood for this trip****  Planet Hollywood Thank You for hosting us for this event!

JAPANESE WAGYU BEEF RETURNS FOR A LIMITED TIME TO CAPA RESTAURANT AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO

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The Japanese beef known as “wagyu” is famed for its soft, buttery texture, high marbling ratio and superior taste. For steak lovers, it’s often attested that there is no better steak experience than wagyu.  In February 2016, Matsusaka beef, the ultimate within the Japanese beef industry, was directly imported from the Matsusaka Region of Mie Prefecture, Japan and introduced at Capa restaurant at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Now, the rare delicacy is back on the Capa menu for a limited time.

“I’m very happy to partner again with the Matsusaka Region, as the strength of its flavour and delectable fattiness makes it like the ‘dessert’ of beef,” says Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi. “Japanese wagyu meets extremely specific characteristics and must come from one specific breed. I love to share this exceptional meat with our guests.”

For ten evenings, February 10 through 20, 2017, the Matsusaka beef is available at Capa, in a special tasting called “From Matsusaka with Love” – perfect for Valentine’s Day. The tasting menu is offered for USD 225 per couple, including a trio of wood-grilled special grade Matsusaka beef: 3-ounce strip loin, 3-ounce tenderloin and 3-ounce ribeye.  An optional wine pairing is available, as well as the full Capa menu for choice of a la carte side dishes.

Matsusaka beef from Mie Prefecture has been recognised and honoured with the highest rankings for decades in the Japanese beef market.

By definition, Matsusaka beef cattle can only be virgin female cows of the Japanese black wagyu variety that have spent the majority of their lifespan, up till the time of slaughter, in Matsusaka City and its surrounding area and are registered under the Matsusaka Beef Identification and Management System.  Some cattle farmers provide beer to cows to stimulate their appetites and give them thorough massages to improve blood circulation and encourage even fat distribution.  Many farms raise their cows in individual rooms so they can be finely managed and assure a comfortable, stress-free life for their cows. Matsusaka beef producers spare no effort to produce the highest quality, richest, most finely dispersed marbling possible while managing their cows on a day to day basis. The rich marbling results in an exquisite taste.

Reservations to experience the Matsusaka beef tasting for two at Capa can be made by calling 407 313 6161.

What is your Favorite Disney Springs place to eat?

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Where is your favorite place to eat, whether its a meal or a snack at Disney Springs

With so many choices and options and flavors its becoming a great place to dine

Leave us a comment below and let us know what your TOP 5 Favorite place to eat are?

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  • AMC Fork and Screen Theatres
  • Crossroads at House of Blues
  • Fulton’s Crab House
  • Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas
  • Portobello Country Italian Trattoria
  • Rainforest Cafe
  • STK Orlando
  • The BOATHOUSE
  • Wolfgang Puck Grand Cafe – Dining Room
  • Cookes of Dublin
  • Earl of Sandwich
  • Food Trucks Exposition Park
  • Foodquest
  • Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
  • Morimoto Street Food
  • Sprinkles
  • Starbucks – Marketplace
  • Starbucks – West Side
  • Italian Ice Kiosk
  • Marketplace Snacks
  • Aristocrepes
  • B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co.
  • Dockside Margaritas
  • Florida Snow Company
  • Haagen-Dazs
  • Joffrey’s Coffee and Tea
  • Joffrey’s Handcrafted Smoothies
  • The Daily Poutine Gourmet Frites
  • Wetzel’s Pretzels
  • YeSake
  • Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
  • Raglan Road
  • Bongos Cuban
  • Frontera Cocina

Tony’s Top 5 Recommended Place

  1. Morimoto Asia – Sushi and Dim Sum
  2. STK – Steak
  3. Frontera Cucina – Mexican
  4. SplitsVille – Sushi, Pizza
  5. WolfGang Puch Pizza