food IS a theme park
When it comes to Disney World, there are so many special experiences that you might not know about!
Tree of Life
If you’re looking for new Disney experiences that not everyone has, Animal Kingdom is a great place to start. Not only can you get a unique experience, you might even learn a thing or two (and don’t we all love edutainment?!) We’re diving into Caring for Giants to see if it’s worth your time and money on your next trip to see the mouse.
When you’re visiting Disney World, it’s easy to reach for the Minnie Ears, the balloons, or other classic souvenirs. But, what if you’re looking for something more unique to remember your vacation?
Did you know you can buy THIS at Disney World?
Well, over in EPCOT, we’ve found some of the coolest (and weirdest) souvenirs that you can get in Disney World! We have seen a literal unicorn MERMAID at House of Good Fortune, and the Mitsukoshi Department Store is where you can find non-Disney items like Animal Crossing backpacks and plushes and color-changing shirts. But, if you thought that was as unique as merchandise gets in Disney, you’re wrong. Disney has OUTDONE themselves with the latest collection we found in the parks!
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Walt Disney World’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground has been entertaining diners for almost 45 years, and we’ve certainly enjoyed our share of shows by the Pioneer Hall Players. (Read our last review of Hoop-Dee-Doo here!)
But while Hoop-Dee-Doo is known for its on-stage antics and overall energy, the food has not taken center stage. Not even close. The fare includes traditional crowd-pleasers like fried chicken, ribs, mashed potatoes, and cornbread, but this is basically banquet food churned out in what feels like a conveyor belt production.
So why would I still say Hoop-Dee-Doo is something everyone should try at least once? Because the show is entertaining enough to justify enduring some mediocre food. And you’re really paying for that entertainment, not for the grub. (Although, of course, we see high-priced mediocre foods in plenty of restaurants that don’t have shows, soooo… .)
Pioneer Hall — Home of Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue
I kept my recent ADR for Hoop-Dee-Doo because of the show and because I like to give Walt Disney World restaurants a second (and a third and an infinite) try. Has the food improved? Is the show still compelling? Let’s see how they’re Hoop-Dee-Doin’ it.
Construction continues in earnest in Disney Springs’ West Side
, where we’re eagerly awaiting the completion of the NBA Experience and Jaleo — with its quick service appendage Pepe. There’s been a lot of progress on both — including glorious copper-colored roofing at Jaleo!
Jaleo Construction
How amazing is this roof design? The color seems to mimic Spanish roof tiles (concept art seemed to indicate a much more yellow/gold roof, so we’ll keep an eye on this), while the layers create visual interest.
Jaleo Construction
Large lettering will spell J-A-L-E-O on windows spanning the entire building, and those seem to be up and completed! [Read more…]
The place to go for food that reflects the many cooking traditions of Mexico is Frontera Cocina, a table service restaurant located in Walt Disney World’s Disney Springs. And the mantra of the restaurant’s owner and leader, Chef Rick Bayless, is all about seasonality and respect for Mexican ingredients, methods, and food culture.
Frontera Cocina
That’s why you’ll find that the menu at Frontera Cocina changes with some regularity, reflecting both the season and the vibrancy of Mexican food. Chef Bayless is world-renowned for his cooking, which he has shared on his show, Mexico: One Plate at a Time and Top Chef Masters. And if you’ve had the pleasure of hearing him talk about cuisine on these programs or podcasts over the years, you already know how much he cares about his craft. [Read more…]
Today we’re bringing you a guest review from our DFB pal Jennifer Elliott, who attended the new Rose & Crown Tea Experience in Epcot’s World Showcase! This weekend, I had the privilege to attend The Rose & Crown’s brand new Tea Experience. It began promptly at 9:45 am, so make sure to allow plenty of time to walk to the United Kingdom Pavilion.
Tea Experience at Rose & Crown Pub and Dining Room
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