You know I can’t stay away from this place.
It’s been a while since we’ve visited Beaches and Cream “officially” here at the DFB. What I mean is, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is one of the few spots I frequent almost every time I visit Disney World, but its been a while since I shared some of the goodness with you here on the blog.
We’re fixing that today with a little (well, actually a LOT of) lunch at everyone’s favorite soda shop, and checking out some of the options from the updated menu while we’re at it.
Ready to go? Let’s head to the middle of the Yacht and Beach Club resorts, right next to Stormalong Bay, and settle in…
Beaches and Cream at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Atmosphere
I’m not the only one who loves Beaches and Cream — not by a long shot. Over the years this little spot has become one of the most popular resort restaurants in Disney World… and I do mean “little.” Those arriving for their first visit might be struck by how small it is in comparison with most Disney World restaurants.
And, remember, speaking of small, the restaurant now offers advance dining reservations…which are recommended. While the to-go section is still open, and seats at the counter are easier to come by than tables when you’re a walk-up guest, ADRs are often necessary even during the slow seasons these days.
Beaches and Cream Dining Room
Once inside, you’ll see that the decor is bright and cheerful, with soft pastels making up most of the color scheme, and mirrors to “open up” the space a bit.
Beaches and Cream
Much of the decoration reflects what’s on the menu: things like hot dogs, burgers, grilled sandwiches… oh, and ICE CREAM!
Beaches and Cream decoration
The booths are the most roomy and enviable seats, with smaller tables tucked closely together in the center.
Booth seating
But a lot of folks enjoy the counter seating, which offers a fun view of lots of the goings-on in the world of the chefs and servers.
Bar seating
Music plays a big part here, too. You can’t miss the genuine jukebox glowing near the door, spinning songs from the 50s.
Jukebox
But we’re here for the eats, not the atmosphere (honestly)! Let’s dig in and check out that new-to-us menu!
Eats
Okay, I mentioned “diner classics,” but it’s worth noting that the menu at Beaches and Cream underwent some changes a few months ago, so I was interested in checking them out.
Beaches and cream menu
Beaches and cream menu
…as I sipped my requisite Cherry-flavored Coke. (Doesn’t it just look so good?)
Cherry Coke
Of course, you’ll still find a lot of the tried-and-true items like the Angus Burger and Chili.
And it’s difficult — okay, all but impossible — for me to resist my absolute favorite: Grilled Cheese and Tomato Bisque. (It’s pretty much what I ALWAYS get when I go there, which is why I can’t write about B&C on every visit. You guys would be totally bored.)
Tomato Bisque and Grilled Cheese Sandwich at Beaches and Cream
On this most recent visit, though, I thought I’d give one of the newer arrivals a try: the Pork Belly Cuban Sandwich: ham and pork belly topped with melted swiss.
Pork Belly Cuban Sandwich
Typically, it also comes with dill pickle relish and grain mustard, but since I’m not a huge fan of either, I ordered my sandwich without. Our server kindly brought them, and a variety on condiments on the side.
Dill Pickle Relish
Grain Mustard
Condiments on the side
And while this sammy wasn’t my beloved grilled cheese with tomato bisque, it was an awesome substitute. The pork belly? Ah-mazing. And it wasn’t all fancy or gussied up; just all melty-hot with the swiss and ham on a crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside roll. Killer. (Probably in more ways than one.)
Warning: Those of you who love pork belly will think this is awesome; those of you who hate it will probably be grossed out. 😉
Pork Belly Sandwich Inside
My friend tried one of the new items, too: the Vegetarian Falafel. The presentation here is pretty great.
Vegetarian Falafel and onion rings
Unfortunately, the execution wasn’t exactly what she had in mind. The falafel itself was fine, if a little “mushy,” lacking that bit of crispness from the fried patties.
She was pleased with the black olive hummus and freshness of the veggies, but the tzatziki-“style” sauce — made with soy — had an almost bitter taste as opposed to the typically cool, creamy flavor of a traditional tzatziki.
Vegetarian Falafel
Definite kudos for the dairy-free option, but the recipe might need a little tweaking.
Still, there isn’t much in this world that can’t be fixed by a big ol’ side of hot, crispy Beaches and Cream Onion Rings, so that helped!
Onion Rings
It will likely not surprise you that we ordered dessert — I mean, when don’t I? But, honestly, if you visit Beaches and Cream and don’t get dessert, you’re kind of missing the Whole. Entire. Point. It’s the “cream” in Beaches and Cream — and there are more shakes, floats, and sundaes than you can shake a stick at!
Beaches and Cream ice cream menu
Let it be sign of what I do for you, dear readers, that I sacrificed my typical order of a No Way Jose to give you a chance to check out something different. It pained me a little… in fact, even though I didn’t have it on this trip, let’s all take a moment to gaze at it in all its hot-fudge-and-peanut-buttery glory, shall we?
No Way Jose at Beaches and Cream
But I did indeed branch out this time, and ordered a classic ice cream treat that — believe it or not — I’d never tried before at Beaches and Cream: the Banana Split.
The Banana Split is labeled a “classic” on the menu: a scoop each of vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry ice cream topped with pineapple, strawberry, and marshmallow along with hot fudge, caramel, toasted almonds, whipped cream, and the requisite cherry on top… Oh, and a banana!
Beaches and Cream Banana Split
Here’s my thing, though… Pineapple with your ice cream — what’s that about?
Oh, well, it’s still a big gooey pile of ice cream with yummy toppings and you can be proud that you incorporated one of your five daily recommended servings of fruits and vegetables into your dessert. DONE 🙂 !
My friend ordered the Frozen Sunshine for dessert (even though, technically, this one falls under the “Shakes and Sodas” category). It’s rainbow sherbet and vanilla ice cream mixed with seltzer and topped with whipped cream and orange slice gummies.
Malts, Shakes and Sundaes menu
Again, the serving is huge: not only do you get a big sundae-glass full, but you also get whatever’s left in the shake container for this blended creation.
Frozen Sunshine
Essentially, it’s like eating a melted creamsicle: the rainbow sherbet falls heavy on the orange side so it’s that same delicious blend of tangy citrus and creamy vanilla. YUM!
Frozen Sunshine
Sadly, we just didn’t leave room for the eight-scoop mountain of ice cream covered with every topping in the house — including an ENTIRE can of whipped cream — that is the famous KITCHEN SINK!
Kitchen Sink
Maybe next time… 😉
Overall
Beaches and Cream is just a fun spot that has earned it’s rightful place as a favorite among Disney food fans (just like the Kitchen Sink has earned it’s spot on many a Disney Dining Bucket List).
It’s always interesting to see them change things up a bit with the menu here, but nice to know that most of those classics remain. After all, this is a place that just starts to feel like home after a couple of visits, and what’s home without some comfort food? Top it all off with the best ice cream on property, and really, what’s not to love? Plus, the staff here are truly incredible. Many of them have been here for years, and they welcome us back each time we show up.
If a visit to Beaches and Cream hasn’t been a part of your Disney World vacations previously, I’d highly recommend it (again — along with an Advanced Dining Reservation, because this place fills up fast!). It may just become your next Disney tradition!
Have you visited Beaches and Cream? Please let us know your thoughts with a comment!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
Drool
Grilled cheese & tomato soup at Jolly Holiday followed by a Matterhorn Macaroon was my absolute favourite thing at Disneyland. (discovered through this very blog and on the ‘must do’ list)
I bemoaned the fact that they should absolutely bring it to WDW.
How did I forget B&C????
I leave the UK for Florida on the 9th September next year…. see you on the 10th B&C!
Totally need the entire menu in my life. 🙂
Now if only they would start making Everest Macaroons!
AJ, You could post review of Tomato Bisque and Grilled Cheese from Beaches and Cream everytime you go. I personally would never be bored. It’s my favorite too.
Just wondering if the grilled cheese is cheesier than it looks in the photo? It said 6 cheese blend and I am a GC lover but it didn’t look too cheesy.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Soup has to be my favorite comfort food!!! It should be a staple on all US restaurants 🙂
I didn’t see the “New Kitchen Sink” Option with the red Mickey sink is it not available anymore?
They use the same gross “tzatziki” on the bed veggie burger at Liberty Tree at The Magic Kingdom. Funny thing is, this falafel could easily be prepared with tahini instead, which is both vegan AND delicious…plus more traditional. :/
I had that Frozen Sunshine orange shake/soda once. It was slightly less filling than the full 3 scoop sundaes, which is what I wanted after a cheeseburger. It was delicious, just like a Creamsicle as AJ said.
Kelly – So glad you found the grilled cheese! Have a great time on your trip!
Lisa — SO Yum.
Joni — I am a HUGE cheese lover, and hate it when the cheese to bread ratio is sub-par. Let me tell you, this is just perfect.
Disney Hipster Andrew — Such a great idea! And thanks for the heads’ up on LTT.
Wendy Snelgrove — It’s just right!
I love the falafel, I get it without the tzatziki and with extra of the olive hummus which I love. A lot. It’s so good.
I go to Beaches ‘n Cream for the grilled cheese and tomato bisque. Oh, and the No Way, Jose! 😉 But if I’m in the mood for some falafel, heading just a bit further west to The Fountain at the Dolphin is worth every step! The gyro there is pretty darn yummy, as well.
Is it true that the Rueben is gone? The hubbie loved that, but I bet he soon forgets about it once he tries the pork belly cuban sandwich!
When we ate at B&C last spring, I ordered the cheeseburger. Unfortunately, the burger was just warm and seemed to be boiled (not broiled) rather than grilled. I also ordered a Black and White shake (which I have always gotten as vanilla ice cream with chocolate syrup). They made it with chocolate ice cream so it was bitter. Not happy with that visit.
This post has been edited by the Administrator to adhere to comment etiquette. It is not our policy at Disney Food Blog to tolerate rude or insulting comments toward other commenters or readers.
Yikes! Falafel with tahini or hummus as opposed to tzatziki can indeed be more traditional. It depends on in which Middle Eastern/ Mediterranean country you happen be eating. Let’s all get along and enjoy some ice cream, shall we?
I got to Beaches ‘n Cream at least once, but often more, during every WDW visit. I keep telling myself I should try something different, but I always get the yummy No Way Jose!
Well, you’ve just solved my dilemma, AJ. I’ve been wondering where to have my TS meal in the EPCOT area for my Sept 2015 visit (Are you as excited as I am Kelly M?) I always like to try new ressies and now that you can make ADRs for B&C, I’m def going to eat here on my next trip. I’ve always wanted to and never had the chance. Great report AJ, always an enjoyable topic. BTW, they always have crushed pineapple and crushed cherries on banana splits in the big city where I’m from; it’s a tradition. Also, part of the tradition is wet nuts, or nuts in syrup, never toasted or dry nuts. Isn’t it funny how recipes can vary from location to location?
Andrew, some people actually DO care if the falafel is vegan or not, because that’s their dietary preference. And I agree with Anna that what is “traditional” with falafel depends upon the origins of the dish, which is widely served in the middle east and northern Africa.
Pineapple on a banana split is wonderful, and a traditional topping where I come from (NJ). Janet has got it right when she says hit the Fountain at the Dolphin for the best falafel around WDW–plus a great banana split and other ice cream treat and homemade pies. A great place to try when you want a burger and sundae but B&C is full.
I appreciate AJ’s sacrifice of the No Way Jose. That is truly taking one for the team.
Sandra – I’m from NJ, too. Make sure you try out Holsten’s in Bloomfield. The best ice cream in NJ (made on site), and it puts B&C to shame as far as ice cream & burgers go. If the Frozen Sunshine sounds good, try Holsten’s Orange Fizz — same idea but better (and also available in Lemon).
Sandra, i understand some people are vegan, it is not for medical reasons. Disney should not deprive others in an attempt to satisfy .002% of the world. This comment has been edited by an administrator to adhere to comment etiquette. Disney Food Blog does not tolerate rude or insulting comments toward other commenters or readers.
Sandra and Essie — Ha ha! Agreed, pineapple is traditional on banana splits where I’m from, too! I was just saying I don’t really love it. ;-D Love the Fountain, but haven’t been there in ages! I think we need a visit!
Love your website, AJ! Thanks for all you do. Our family of 5 is taking our first trip to Beaches and Cream (& Food & Wine!) next month and we are planning on getting the Kitchen Sink (although I truly long for the No Way Jose, so don’t know if I can manage to refrain). Anyway, is it true that the Kitchen Sink can be customized? We checked the list of ingredients and many just don’t sound like things we would want. We also have a son who is gluten-free, so would not want all the muffins. Could we ask them to remove specific items from the recipe? Before we go I wanted to get your input. Thanks in advance!
Andrew makes a very good point…unfortunately, it conflicts with the recent fixation/fad where every special interest group expects a custom menu.
So I love love love Beaches and Cream. No way Jose is my fave, but I do also love a good banana split. (With a side of peanut butter sauce to cover all the bases). That being said, it’s definitely worth a trip to the Fountain for the best BLT ever. Shakes aren’t bad either, and the kids meals come with fresh strawberries!
Dined here last week and loved the Grilled Cheese & Tomato Bisque. Wish I could have some right now on this chilly Halloween! Hubby really enjoyed his chili dog and we split the brownie sundae. It was huge and we left a lot of ice cream uneaten. Kids enjoyed their kid’s meals & Mickey sundaes. Surprised we were sat at the same booth as our trip 2 years ago. Love Beaches & Cream!
We are visiting WDW this Sept and are using the free dining plan offer. I have made ADR for B&C on our visit because everything looks so yummy! My question is whether the sundaes(excluding the kitchen sink) will be included as our “dessert” part of the table service meal as there are other desserts listed on the menu? If anyone can provide input it would be greatly appreciated! And thank you in advance!
Have stayed at the Boardwalk for years (DVC) and never been to Beaches and Cream. That will change in Oct. and can’t wait to try the Grilled Cheese and Tomato Bisque. My favorite is a good old fashion Banana Split with three scoops of Ice Cream and all the toppings. See Y’all in Oct.
I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to get an advanced dining reservation at Beaches & Cream! I started making reservations on the morning of my 180 mark. It took me a little less than a month to get one at the very popular Be Our Guest restaurant, but it took me five months to get one at Beaches & Cream. And that was with checking several times a day every day.