We headed back into Disney’s California Adventure to sample two of the Food & Wine Festival‘s signature items this year. Signature items are located at counter-service spots around the park, and the two we sampled were found in Taste Pilot’s Grill and Award Weiners.
These signature dishes are sized larger than the tapas that can be found at the “Taste of California” area in the Festival Center. They are served as standard counter-service meals, including a side dish — usually fries, chips, or apple slices. The cost for the larger items is reflective, sometimes topping out in the teens!
Mangia Meatballs
The Mangia Meatballs are a cross between an Italian Sausage and a meatball sub sandwich. The three meatballs on a cornmeal hoagie roll were accompanied by marinara, onions, and peppers, creating a slightly spicy dish.
While the meatballs tasted pre-packaged and had a mushier texture than I was anticipating, the marinara with onions and peppers was quite good. The whole thing was topped off with fresh mozzarella cheese — un-melted — which added positively to the taste. Overall, I wouldn’t get it as an entree if I had other choices, but it wasn’t the worst meatball sub I’ve ever had. I’d give it a 6 out of 10. This dish can be found at Award Weiners.
Pulled Pork Sandwich
The pork sandwich surprised us both. We were expecting dry, over-cooked meat with too little taste (so often the case with mass-produced pulled pork), but the sandwich was actually quite good. The serving of pulled pork was extremely generous, and the taste — with just the right amount of BBQ sauce — was right on. My husband calls this the winner of the Food & Wine Festival, so far. This dish can be found at Taste Pilot’s Grill.
The meatball sandwich was my preference of these two, but my husband really enjoyed the pork sandwich — therefore, I’m unable to give you a clear either/or suggestion! Just do what we did, order both, and share!
Stay tuned for some more California Food & Wine Festival treats tomorrow! We still have plenty more to sample and review… .
TRENDING NOW

2 new sauces are coming to McDonald's in October, and we're way too excited about...

The My Disney Experience app has been having some issues lately. Be prepared for this...

There's a NEW discount available if you're staying at a Disney World hotel in early...

Don't miss this newer mobile order feature that's started rolling out in Disneyland!

One Disney+ series is facing some controversy with the show's original creators.

The parking secret y'all don't want to hear but NEED to hear.

Disneyland just announced a NEW hotel discount!

Bob Iger's job cuts earlier this year have led to a few problems with Disney's...

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is now using a standby line again after using...

We've seen some uncomfortable things at Disney World hotels, and we're here to tell you...

There's one Disney World hotel we don't see many people talking about these days.

We've got a BIG Target Circle Days announcement to share!

Here are all of the potential permanent closures that could take place at Disney's Animal...

Here are 3 BIG changes that are coming to Magic Kingdom in 2024!

Disney World Annual Passholders will want to HURRY to snag this new Disney offer!

Bluey: The Videogame is finally releasing this November!

Changes are on the way in Disney World and these new permits prove it!

Trust us, you don't want to make these Disney World mistakes in October!

We're shocked that so many Disney fans think this extra splurge is worth it!

NEW Disney hotel rooms are opening soon -- get an inside look here.
i’m disappointed that your meatball sandwich was less than stellar. i LOVE meatball sandwiches too!
that pulled pork sandwich looks absolutely awesome. i’m totally drooling now.
Thanks for your comment, Robin! Yep — meatball sandwich was on a par with Subway. But the pork was great! 😉