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Disney Parks Podcast

All the Disney Parks in One Podcast

Why Epcot is Orlando’s worst theme park

June 13, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

An unpopular opinion

I can’t tell you about my first trip to Epcot because I don’t remember it; nor does any individual trip I’ve ever taken to Epcot stand out in my mind. What I remember about my pre-postgrad days at Epcot are: rides on Horizons and being able to choose your ending (I always went with space). Walking in, and always starting with Spaceship Earth; walking out, and finding our picture on the boulders. My rides on Body Wars, the best motion simulator Disney has made to date (in my opinion). Being lifted over the barrier around Mission Space by my Dad so that I could get a clear visual of the beautiful building façade. To me, Epcot has been a toe touch park; you plan when you’re going to leave before you even get in.

Continue Reading …

Disney Parks Podcast Show #472 – Disney News for The Week of June 4, 2018

June 6, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

Disney Parks Podcast Show #472 – Disney News for The Week of June 4, 2018

Disney Parks Podcast Show #472 – Disney News for The Week of June 4, 2018

In this episode, Tony and Parkhopper John discuss the news about Shanghai Disney First Disney race, Disney Junior Dance Party coming to Hollywood Studios, Minnie Vans for all, we kick off TOY STORY MONTH and so much more.

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  • Disney Parks Podcast Show #472 – Disney News for The Week of June 4, 2018

Disney Parks Podcast Show #460 – Disney News for The Week of April 30, 2018

May 4, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

Disney Parks Podcast Show #460 – Disney News for The Week of April 30, 2018

Disney Parks Podcast Show #460 – Disney News for The Week of April 30, 2018

In this episode, Tony and Parkhopper John discuss Terralina Crafted Italian open at Disney Springs, Donald Duck’s Birthday at Tokyo Disneyland, a new Pixar Plane hits the skies, and so much more!

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  • Disney Parks Podcast Show #460 – Disney News for The Week of April 30, 2018

Toy Story Land-Inspired Games Debut on DisneyWorld.com

May 2, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

Two new digital games inspired by the Toy Story Land expansion at Disney’s Hollywood Studios are available now on ToyStoryPlaytime.com.

Both games are inspired by attractions in the land – the guest-favorite Toy Story Mania!, as well as the new Alien Swirling Saucers.

New Toy Story Land-Inspired Games on ToyStoryPlaytime.com

  • The Claw Challenge – In :60 seconds, use The Claw to pick as many “chosen ones” as possible. Tip: the smaller the Aliens, the higher the points!

New Toy Story Land-Inspired Games on ToyStoryPlaytime.com

  • Trivia Mania – Test your knowledge on “Toy Story.” How many questions can you answer?
New Toy Story Land-Inspired Games on ToyStoryPlaytime.com New Toy Story Land-Inspired Games on ToyStoryPlaytime.com

Another game, Slinky Dog Dash, debuted earlier this spring. In it, you’ve got :10 seconds to stretch Slinky Dog around the course to collect points … but don’t let his tail catch up before time runs out!

All three games are complimentary and can be accessed on desktop or mobile devices.

As a reminder, Toy Story Land will officially open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios on June 30, 2018.

For more on what to expect when this thrilling new land opens, check out the list of related blog posts below!

Explore the New Bourbon Trail at Disney Springs

May 1, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

There’s something exciting – and tasty! – coming to Disney Springs on May 1. Kick off your summer by exploring this brand-new Bourbon Trail, where guests ages 21 and older can discover bourbon-inspired beverages and food pairings. Meander through the many shops and restaurants throughout the area and find your favorites!

Each of these drinks has been carefully paired with a delicious dish, and there’s even a map that shows where to find all of them! Whether you’re a bourbon aficionado, or just enjoy sipping and savoring new drinks, this trail is perfect for an afternoon stroll or a night out with friends.

Disney Springs Bourbon Trail Map

I’ve put together this guide to everything being offered on the trail, so be sure to read up and prepare your taste buds, because these offerings will only be available through June 17 and you won’t want to miss out! You might even find me strolling about and sipping on a tasty beverage myself …

Homemade Bread Pudding and Fine and Mellow at House of Blues Restaurant & Bar on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

House of Blues Restaurant & Bar

  • Fine and Mellow – featuring Knob Creek Bourbon, St. Elder, lemon juice, strawberry, and rhubarb bitters
  • Hurry Sundown Old Fashioned – featuring Maker’s Mark Bourbon, Benedictine, butter pecan syrup, bitters, and caramel pecan bacon
  • Smoked Brisket or Smoked Pulled Pork Sandwich
  • Homemade Bread Pudding – topped with toffee sauce and bourbon butter

BBQ Chicken Pizza and The Trifecta at Splitsville Dining Room on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

Splitsville Dining Room

  • The Trifecta – a stirred concoction of Old Forester 100, Carpano Antica Vermouth, Benedictine, and Pimento Dram
  • BBQ Chicken Pizza – smothered in BBQ sauce, topped with marinated grilled chicken, BBQ sauce, smoked gouda, mozzarella, cilantro, and red onion

Bongos Cuban Café

  • Angel’s Envy Bourbon Mojito – featuring Angel’s Blue Envy Bourbon, simple syrup, soda water, and fresh mint leaves
  • Authentic Cuban Style Churrasco Certified Angus Beef – a 10-ounce skirt steak hand-cut and served with house-made chimichurri sauce, white rice, and beans

YeSake

  • Strawberry Bourbon Sour Slushie – bourbon, sweet strawberry puree, and lemonade
  • Citrus Fresh – salmon, green leaf lettuce, cucumber, onion, spinach, and jalapeño tempura crunch wasabi ponzu sauce (available as a bowl or wrap)

Bulleit Old Fashioned and BBQ Ribs at Planet Hollywood Observatory on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

Planet Hollywood Observatory

  • Bulleit Frontier Old Fashioned – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, sugar, and bitters
  • BBQ Ribs – fall-off-the-bone St. Louis-style ribs, slow cooked in-house, smothered with BBQ sauce, and served with triple fries

STK Orlando

  • Double Down – featuring Woodford Reserve and lemon juice
  • Double Smoked Bacon – served with date chutney, oven-dried tomatoes, and crispy garlic
  • Bag O’ Donuts – enhanced with dulche de leche filling and spice chocolate and raspberry sauces

Enzo’s Hideaway

  • Enzo’s Bourbon Swizzle – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, lemon juice, ginger syrup, bitters, and fresh mint sprigs with notes of spice, rye, and cedar
  • Salumi and Formaggi Board – an impressive selection of meats and cheeses

DB Clothesline Candied Bacon at The Edison on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

The Edison

  • Peach Tree Downs – a refreshing peach mint julep with a nutty pecan finish featuring Knob Creek Bourbon and Old Camp Peach Pecan Whiskey, with a rich, sweet, woody, full-bodied and almost-fruity flavor and aromas of toasted nuts, grain, and oak
  • DB Clothesline Candied Bacon – maple and black pepper-infused bacon served with a sour pickle

Paradiso 37, Taste of the Americas

  • Kentucky Sunrise – featuring Jim Beam Bourbon, orange juice, and grenadine
  • Argentinian Skirt Steak – 10-ounce char-grilled skirt steak topped with caramelized onions and chimichurri and served with wasabi or truffle fries

The Ganachery

  • Woodford Reserve Bourbon – comprised of more than 200 delectable flavor notes, from bold grain and wood to sweet aromatics: spice, fruit, and floral notes

Dub Schpuds and The Gold Cup at Raglan Road™ Irish Pub & Restaurant on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant

  • The Gold Cup – featuring Bulleit Bourbon, Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, fresh lime juice, simple syrup, and muddled mint, lime, and cucumber
  • Dub Schpuds – herb roasted potato wedges with a Smithwick’s & Dubliner cheese dip

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar

  • Coffee Old Fashioned – Woodford Reserve Bourbon, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Joffrey’s Cold Brew Coffee, Vanilla Syrup, Aromatic Bitters, and served with a coffee ganache square
  • Snakebite Sliders – three gourmet beef sliders with tomato-bacon jam, house-made pickles, shredded lettuce and cheese

Orlando Pride and Calamari at The Boathouse on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

The Boathouse

  • Orlando Pride – featuring Old Forester Bourbon and a homemade blackberry citrus purée
  • Calamari – hoisin chili marinated calamari rings lightly fried with a medley of peppers and served with a side of hoisin chili sauce

Southern Sangria at Paddlefish on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

Paddlefish

  • Southern Sangria – featuring Medley Bros. Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, peach liqueur, Tempranillo, and seasonal fruit with warm notes of caramel, oak, and spices that are followed by touches of creamy vanilla, milk chocolate, and caramelized sugar
  • The Pork Chop – a 10-ounce pork chop served with house-made applesauce and fresh green beans

The Polite Pig

  • Winner’s Circle – featuring Buffalo Trace Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Pamplemousee grapefruit liqueur, and elderflower tonic, with a rich and complex flavors and hints of vanilla, toffee, and candied fruit
  • The Southern Pig Sandwich – mouthwatering pulled pork, fennel-apple slaw, tangy mustard BBQ and Dukes Mayonnaise

Frontera Cocina

  • Bórbon Néctar – featuring Basil Hayden’s Bourbon, 3 dashes of organic agave, 5 drops of Elemakule Tiki Bitters, and orange peel with lean oak, corn, and caramel flavors and finishes of warm toffee, spice, and drying wood
  • Carne Asada – garlic and red chili-marinated Creekstone Natural Black Angus Steak, black beans refritos with queso fresco, and caramelized plantains with crema and Cotija cheese and served with tomatillo salsa and warm tortillas
Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake at D-Luxe Burger on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail Southern Burger at D-Luxe Burger on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

D-Luxe Burger

  • Smoked Bourbon Gelato Shake – vanilla gelato blended with Knob Creek Single Barrel Bourbon, hickory smoke, and dark chocolate sauce and topped with a bacon strip
  • Southern Burger – signature blend beef patty topped with a fried green tomato, pimento cheese, lettuce, grilled onion, and bacon

Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’

  • The Old Fashioned Elder – featuring Michter’s Bourbon and St. Germain Elderflower
  • Basil Hayden’s Mint Julep – featuring Basil Hayden’s Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whisky, simple syrup, and sprigs of fresh mint
  • Famous Thigh High Chicken Biscuits – three biscuits topped with Chef Art’s fried chicken thighs, drizzled with hot honey, and served alongside bread and butter pickles

Smoked Brisket and Hurry Sundown Old Fashioned at House of Blues® Restaurant & Bar on the Disney Springs Bourbon Trail

Everything on this tasty Bourbon Trail will be available at Disney Springs from May 1 to June 17, so come on out, grab a drink and a snack, and take a walk with us! You can even pick up a Bourbon Trail Passport that contains all of this info and more at the Disney Springs Welcome Center and at any participating location.

INFO: Why Dinosaur is better than Indiana Jones Adventure

April 27, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

Why Dinosaur is better than Indiana Jones Adventure

An unpopular opinion

Every disagreement starts simply enough. You state an opinion, someone else counters that opinion and you both offer up points until someone relents or both agree to disagree. But what happens when you’re in a group and EVERYONE disagrees with you…even when you’re right? Like when an argument arises that we use 10% of our brain and your group agrees? It’s easy enough to breakout your phone, go to Google and show them that 90% of our brain is NOT inactive.

Continue Reading …

A Taste of Wine Bar George

April 16, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

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.”

What’s in Woody’s Lunch Box?

April 9, 2018 By Tony Caselnova

In the toy-filled backyard that is Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests “shrink” to the size of a toy and explore the world of Woody, Buzz Lightyear, and friends. In the middle of all the fun, Andy has taken his vintage Woody-themed lunch box and propped it open with a thermos, turning it into a walk-up window where his toys can grab a bite to eat. From a nearby tower, green army men stand at the ready, keeping watch for Andy’s return.

Opening June 30, Woody’s Lunch Box will dish up all sorts of sandwiches and sides that blend classic flavor combinations with a modern twist, plus nostalgic soda floats and specialty beverages. We caught up with the team at Flavor Lab – the concept development kitchen – to ask how much fun (and challenging) it was to take sentimental food favorites and give them a modern make-over…in flavor and presentation.

“Everyone has a special food memory, so it can be tricky putting a modern spin on the favorites,” explained Lenny DeGeorge, Concept Development Culinary Director for Walt Disney World, about the year-long menu development process.  “We honored these classic dishes by using the best ingredients to elevate the flavors. How we constructed the sandwiches was important, such as layering the ingredients in a specific order, to maximize textures and flavors. Why have a cold sandwich when you can have a toasted hot, gooey cheese-filled one?”

Here is a peek into Woody’s Lunch Box. Gee, I wish my mom would have packed me a lunch like this!

S’more French Toast Breakfast Sandwich from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

S’more French Toast Breakfast Sandwich – Oozy goodness in a chocolate ganache- and marshmallow-stuffed French toast topped with graham cracker crumbles. Inspired by the classic American campfire treat.

Smoked Turkey Sandwich from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Smoked Turkey, Eggs, Swiss, Peppers, and Onions on Sourdough – The perfect hand-held stack of breakfast goodness.

Breakfast Bowl from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Breakfast Bowl – The green army men line up for this hearty bowl of potato barrels, brisket-country gravy, and scrambled eggs.

BBQ Brisket Melt from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

BBQ Brisket Melt – With a nod to cowboy Woody, this Texas-style smoked brisket features cheddar, Monterey Jack, pickles, and BBQ sauce on garlic butter-grilled sourdough.

Monte Cristo from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Monte Cristo with Raspberry Jam – Woody’s version of this classic sandwich has layers of ham, turkey, Swiss, and raspberry jam…and is grilled to a golden brown.

Totchos from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Totchos – Potato barrels, corn chips, chili, and cheese – what’s not to love??

Sides from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios Mini Babybel Cheese from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Sides include tomato basil soup, vegetable macaroni salad, and potato barrels. Mini Babybel snack cheese, the official snack cheese of Walt Disney World Resort, is also an option to eat with your meal or as an on-the-go snack.

Raspberry Lunch Box Tarts from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Raspberry Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Dried Fruit and Chocolate-Hazelnut Lunch Box Tart garnished with Icing and Caramelized Bacon – Even toys need a sweet treat! Inspired by breakfast toaster pastries, this modern interpretation, with its uniquely delicate crust, is the perfect hand-held pastry.

The littlest toys can enjoy a grilled cheese sandwich or turkey sandwich, both served with potato barrels and mandarin oranges. For toys looking for more lighter options, they can grab one of these tasty bites at Woody’s Lunch Box or check out the many other healthful offerings available at Disney’s Hollywood Studios including fresh fruits and vegetables, salads, and grilled meats and fish.

Banana Split Yogurt Parfait

Banana Split Yogurt Parfait – Layers of banana-vanilla Greek yogurt (with a hint of honey), fresh bananas, strawberries, and pineapple topped with granola and chocolate chips. A delicious and healthful way to start the day!

Smoked Turkey, Tomato, and Lettuce on Multigrain Bread

Smoked Turkey, Tomato, and Lettuce on Multigrain Bread – This quintessential lunch box sandwich is a light and fresh option. And to give it a kick of flavor, we add a creamy Dijonnaise.

Soda Floats from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Soda Floats – All toys would agree that a refreshing soda float is the perfect nostalgic beverage!

Alien Sipper from Woody’s Lunch Box in Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The adorable Alien Sipper may be purchased and filled with any fountain drink or the signature Mystic Portal Punch – Powerade Mountain Berry Blast with flavors of lemon-lime and tangerine.

The big kids can enjoy the backyard with Grown-Up’s Lemonade cocktail (cherry vodka, Odwalla Lemonade, and black cherry purée), beer, or hard cider.

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