A great annual event is returning this week—the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant returns to Disney Springs! Break out your green and celebrate for five days of fun March 13-17 with non-stop Irish-infused entertainment from morning until night, a mighty selection of beers and cocktails and of course, the most authentic Irish pub grub around.
The Disney Parks blog has released quite a bit of info on this event:
The regular menu will be available during the event featuring your favorite go-to dishes like the Guinness-infused Bangin’ Bangers and Mighty Mash. Planning to stop by over the weekend? The Rollicking Raglan Weekend Brunch will be served March 14 and 15 from 9 a.m. to 3 pm.
Guests who dine on Monday, March 16 can enjoy a new whiskey pairing dinner from 3-11 p.m. featuring a special prix fixe menu with locally sourced dishes like Whiskey Cured House Smoked Salmon and Apple Baked Dumplings paired with the finest Irish whiskey cocktails.
One of the most thrilling highlights of this annual event is the amazing live entertainment hand-picked straight from Ireland. Here’s a look at this year’s line-up:
Strings & Things will bring their contemporary Irish Trad/Folk/Roots crossover talent from Tipperary and Galway to the festival stage. Their unique sound and powerful stage energy promise a raucous evening of music and song.
TradGad features three talented musicians from Kerry, Dublin and Galway charming guests with their vibrant performances on guitar, fiddle, mandolin, uilleann pipes, tin whistle, banjo and bouzouki.
Maca, an Irish sister duo dubbed “Ireland’s next big thing” will rock the Raglan Road Pub stages with their extraordinary talent.
Fia Rua, featuring band members from Ireland and Scotland, will blend their musical backgrounds to perform and wow guests with a unique Celtic sound.
Mike Waters, from the southeast of Ireland, will perform Irish songs and ballads from traditional to contemporary with a good measure of chat and humor.
Emily Furlong, an extraordinary singer and entertainer from Wexford, Ireland will captivate guests with her stunning voice.
No Half Measures, an exciting, fresh and vibrant four-piece band from Scotland, Cork and Kilkenny will spin their youthful, contemporary sound for the Mighty Festival audience.
Of course, don’t miss the popular Raglan Road Irish Dancers plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows! They’ll be performing intermittently during the festival and ready to teach you an Irish jig – no experience necessary! Kids will also have a blast at this family-friendly party so be sure to bring everyone dressed in their best green garb and enjoy complimentary face painting.
For those planning to celebrate on St. Patrick’s Day, be sure to plan ahead for the fun! On March 17, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-serve basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest 18 and older. Reservations can be booked online for other festival days, including brunch by calling 407-938-0300.
There’s a new eagle in town…a Regal Eagle, so we thought to make it easier, we’d share our review and some Regal Eagle Smokehouse Do’s and Don’t’s. Actually, the eagle’s not new, but his BBQ place is. Last June when Disney announced a new barbecue restaurant would be replacing the original-to-EPCOT-Center Liberty Inn, we were all pretty excited and hopeful for this new experience.
Disney Dining for Everyone
Being a vegetarian for the past 3 years and vegan for the past 6 months, I wasn’t worried at all, because I knew Disney’s new plant-based initiative would ensure there was something for everyone at this new spot.
As sad as I was at losing an original piece of EPCOT Center in the Liberty Inn, barbecue does seem disctinctly American, so it seemed like a good fit. Disney has slowly been replacing its “fast-casual” dining locations with less burgers/nuggets/hot dogs and fries, and more healthy options, or at least more unique and more culinarily adventurous.
Now most places will offer a wrap or a unique salad vs. a plain old burger. With more and more folks eating more plant-based entrees, Disney really is making sure there is at least ONE thing that vegans, vegetarians, and usually gluten-free folks can try. More on that as you keep reading.
The Muppet Connection
Back in January, Disney then announced the the new bbq eatery would feature Sam Eagle of the Muppets. Of course everyone knows him from the original Muppet Show, but also Disney parks fans love to quote his line from Muppet Vision 3-D of “A salute to all nations but mostly America” which was supposed to be a “glorious 3 hour finale” (he only got a minute and a half). Disney has spun that quote and turned the motto of Regal Eagle Smokehouse to be “A salute to all cook-offs, but mostly barbecue.”
Reaction online was mixed, with some thinking the Muppets (and Intellectual Property [IP] in general) should be left out of the World Showcase’s representation of our home country of the United States of America. Others thought Sam Eagle was a perfect fit to represent our country with his swelling patriotism. The irony is that Sam was sort of a spoof himself, created for the original Muppet Show when the bicentennial of America was happening and brought out many over-the-top patriotic zealots. Whatever the backstory, he became very loveable character for his set-in-his-ways sensibilities and love of country.
Whatever your views on patriotism, it’s important to note that at the end of the day, he’s a Muppet. Part of what made the Muppets so relatable was that they poked fun at all sorts of different views, ideals, and preconceived notions.
Personally, I LOVE as in L O V E the American Adventure in this pavilion. Others think it’s boring and skippable or a place to take a nap. Still others think it leaves out huge portions of history and doesn’t do a great job of representation. From a purely fan-of-Disney-Imagineering perspective, it is one of my favorites, for its displays, its music, and its place in EPCOT Center history. So I understood feeling protective of this original concept and space and not wanting any IP seeping in. That said, I hold the Muppets to a different standard and am pretty much okay with Muppets being added any and everywhere. Double standard? Perhaps. But the Muppets deserve our love and appreciation whenever possible.
ALL of that said, after visiting the Regal Eagle yesterday, the Muppet representation, or Muppetation if you will, is really minimal. There is a small Sam Eagle in the sign logo, and 4 framed drawings of a different Muppet at each of the 4 types of barbecue represented inside the restaurant. To the left of the registers there is a sillhouette portrait of Sam Eagle and Gonzo. That was really all I saw. The rest of the decor is all early-American art and informational posters of meat cuts etc. So much more “bbq” themed than Muppets.
What struck me was the weird juxtaposition of the original colonial columns and more Georgian architecture from Liberty Inn now contrasted with brick work and very casual bbq-joint type decor, mixed with old Americana kitchen accoutrements like pot-bellied stoves and old kitchen furniture. So it’s kind of an odd space visually speaking, but I know they had to work with what they had and the bones of the existing Liberty Inn. It certainly didn’t affect our experience, just something I noticed while sitting there.
Regal Eagle Food
Back to the food options! So you may have heard about or seen the giant smoker that was installed outside the Regal Eagle, as a showpiece/centerpiece. It’s a huge double smoker and we were there on day two and the smoker was still not working. We asked at the bar outside and they said it is a functional smoker but as of now is not being used yet. So I’m not sure if they are planning to set it up soon, if it will always just be a display thing, or if they will perhaps just pipe in a smoker scented smellitzer and some smoke machine effects?
So that said, they are not smoking the bbq meats you can order outside in that smoker. As far as the meats they offered, Christian enjoyed his brisket, and the photos and reviews I’ve seen of the other options all seem to be favorable. I ordered the BBQ Jackfruit Burger, which is made with a Beyond Burger, topped with bbq’d jackfruit, the plant-based replacement for a “pulled pork/chicken” type of bbq. The best part for me was that it was served on Texas Toast. Garlic bread may perhaps be my downfall as a human, and it really added to the burger rather than a plain bun. I’m not a huge jackfruit fan, it’s a texture thing for me, but the flavor was good. The beyond burger was a beyond burger.
While I appreciate the availability and the way that this burger helps meat eaters try something plant-based, a beyond burger has a very distinctive flavor that really overpowers everything it touches. Again, I’m grateful we have an option, but I’d love if Disney chefs started creating their own veggie burgers with natural ingredients as a choice for vegetarians and vegans who are interested in a good burger, not necessarily a meat replacement. But I digress.
We ordered:
Sliced Texas Beef Brisket Sandwich Rubbed with our secret Brisket Rub then Slow-smoked and smothered in Spicy Mop Sauce, and placed between Garlic Toast and served with your choice of side.
BBQ Jackfruit Burger Plant-based Burger on Garlic Toast topped with BBQ Jackfruit served with your choice of side.
As well as a few side items and deserts (Hint, pickles may have been present). (Click on photos to view larger size)
BBQ Jackfruit with fries and pickles
BBQ Brisket with fries
Regal Eagle BBQ Sauces
BBQ Jackfruit with fries and pickles
Regal Eagle S’mores brownie
BBQ Jackfruit with fries and pickles
One of the two bbq sauce/ketchup stations
Regal Eagle Kids Menu and Drinks Menu
Regal Eagle Menu with Desserts
Sauces:
The BBQ sauces were nothing really stand out, but as a fast-casual option, they need to appeal to the masses. The “Cook-off” theme comes in to play here with the different sauces being regional representations of bbq styles. A classic pit bbq sauce, a vinegar based sauce, a sweet-but-spicy choice, and a sweet mustard sauce. Those sauce types are the same represented on the walls as you walk in. A Muppet is displaced as the winner of each cook-off style. That’s about it for the cook-off theming so I feel like the slogan of “A Salute to all cook-offs but mostly barbecue” is a bit of a misnomer. They do have the side items of house made pickles, mac and cheese, beans with burnt ends, cole slaw, and seasoned fries. However I view a “cook-off” as many more options.
Side Items:
Speaking of sides, as noted in our video, there’s a bit of a discrepancy with value of sides. You get one side with an entree. Certainly a side of pickles is not in the same range as the fries, mac and cheese, or single slice of garlic bread. Same with the desserts. There is the S’mores Brownie, the Banana Pudding, and for vegans or those wanting a healthy option, cut up watermelon.
My order of watermelon was the extreme rind end of things. Very pale pink and almost too hard to bite into. That was disappointing for $5, the same price as the brownie or pudding.
Final Thoughts before the Regal Eagle Smokehouse Do’s and Don’t’s:
So overall, my thoughts on Regal Eagle is that it’s a fun addition to the America pavilion. If you are a bbq fan, you’ll enjoy it here. If you are a bbq connoisseur, you’d find more authentic styles at Polite Pig or off property altogether. From the looks of Christian’s S’mores brownie, that’s worth a visit. As are the seasoned fries and pickles in my opinion. I’d like to give the salad a try with the chicken on the side for my husband haha.
Craft Drafts Outdoor Bar
The official name of this restaurant is Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts and Barbecue. So if you’re here for the craft drafts, you will enjoy the new outdoor bar windows. There are a few options inside, but even more outside, including some frozen mixed drinks as well. I’m not a big beer drinker (as mentioned on our City Works review) but even I am intrigued by the cider on tap, and may have to try that out next visit. In any event, it’s a fun addition that I’m sure many will enjoy. This whole new addition is really just like a permanent location for the Epcot International Flower and Garden and Food and Wine Festival offerings for the American Pavilion, so I’m sure they will be immensely popular.
Regal Eagle Craft Drafts Outdoor Bar
Regal Eagle Smokehouse Do’s and Don’t’s
Do’s
Definitely the atmosphere, the seating indoor and out is fun and functional.
Drink Stations and sauce stations, a plus.
House Made Pickles, I loved them, maybe not for $4.99 tho.
Garlic Texas Toast, yes please.
Outdoor bar – a win!
Dont’s
Side of Garlic Bread. Be aware that not all sides are created equal. $4.99 for 1 slice of store-bought garlic bread? No thanks.
Watermelon, $4.99 for unripe/rind ends of watermelon is a no from me.
Sauces – don’t go in expecting to find hand-crafted artisinal bbq sauces. These are just standard food supply sauces as you would expect at a quick-serve/counter service/fast-casual location.
Are you planning a visit to the Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Draft and Barbecue? Let me know what you’re most looking forward to trying, of if you’ve been, what you enjoyed or didn’t!
Here’s our vlog from our visit if you’d like so see what it’s like to experience Regal Eagle BBQ:
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I love a good festival. Art, Food, Renaissance, Fools, I’m always up for a festival. I’ve written many times before about the various established Epcot festivals. Originally begun to bolster lower attendance weeks at Walt Disney World, the first modern, well-promoted festival at Epcot was the International Flower and Garden Festival, which began in 1993. I missed the first couple of years, but when I moved down in 1995 and began working for Walt Disney World, it became a tradition to attend. The Flower and Garden Festival always revolved around Mother’s Day and back then, Disney provided a free photo op (much like they also used to at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party). It became a Mother’s Day tradition to attend with my mom, enjoy all the fun topiaries and floral displays, dine in France, and get our photo taken together. Also in 1995, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival began. I remember how exciting those first years were; being able to stroll around World Showcase and sample smaller bites from countries that may not have a full pavilion, but have some great flavors to offer. It was a fun time.
Now, there are very few “low attendance times” at Walt Disney World. People now plan their visits around the festivals, in order to try the food items, or take part in the many seminars and sessions offered. Another addition over the years was runDisney appearing on the scene, with some races around the festivals, making it even more well-attended. And, of course, Epcot drinking teams also became a thing, giving Food & Wine bit of a reputation for drunken hordes roaming the World Showcase Promenade. That is not to say these festivals are not still enjoyable, just that they have considerably changed over the years, and become an entity unto themselves. As a local, it’s still fun to go on a weeknight and try the foods, or perhaps splurge on a dining event offered. My husband and I did the Parisian Afternoon last year and had a lovely time. There is always something new to see or experience, so you really can get out of the festivals what you want.
Enter #ArtfulEpcot. Quietly sauntering into the festival scene in the middle of January this year, the Epcot International Art Festival became an INSTANT hit. And I do mean instant. There was very little info provided about this festival far ahead of time. We saw a few photos of “artsy food” which, yes, looked amazing, but I don’t think I was alone when I thought, “oh, it’ll be Food & Wine in February…” and also wondered how they would pull off these artistic food creations under the usually extreme conditions of festival food booths. Then, I walked into Epcot the first Friday it opened, saw a perfectly crafted Figment topiary, complete with two tiny wings, eyes big and yellow, horns of a steer…he really was a lovable fellow. Sorry, it’s impossible for me not to break into song when discussing Figment. Anyway, I sort of fell in love, again, with Epcot.
Of course it was more than just a Figment topiary to make me appreciate this new festival. I attended an event which highlighted the various food creations, merchandise, and entertainment offerings within the festival. Every cast member on hand who spoke about their area of expertise was so passionate and excited. That excitement was contagious, and I soon realized this was something very different from just another festival. As we strolled around Epcot, I saw more and more reasons why this was going to be a big hit.
There are many different types of Disney fan out there. I’ve spoken about what kind I am before, and though there are most certainly no wrong or right type of fan, there are many others like me, who love the history of the Walt Disney Company, the pioneering advances and different thinking that made it succeed, even while it was doomed to fail. We Disney history nerds love the original concept, hopes, and ideals that EPCOT Center stood for both in Walt’s initial idea, and the 1982-1994 incarnation of the theme park once known as EPCOT Center. I have professed my love for this park endless times. That park doesn’t really exist today, but you can see glimpses and sparks of it if you know where to look. As an EPCOT Center fan, it’s completely normal and acceptable behavior to stare at wall carpet, marvel at the ride system within Universe of Energy (Ellen’s Energy Adventure), or watch Impressions de France on repeat, while the rest of the park may be lining up for characters or Frozen or Test Track. That is not to say we can’t also enjoy some of the park’s current lineup. It is to say, we miss original EPCOT and all that it represented to us.
What the Epcot Festival of the Arts has done is found the perfect mix, to entertain the masses, and delight those who dearly miss what EPCOT once was. How? Well, for starters, the entire design of the festival speaks to EPCOT in a modern way. Muted, watercolor style images of park icons, including the original EPCOT Center logo, make my 1980’s heart sing. Figment is the “mascot” of the festival, but not in an annoying, or out of place way. He represents the very spirit of art, appearing in each World Showcase country, in a work of art hailing from the country you are in, only Figment-ized. A perfect way to get kids (and adults) interested in art and seek out more knowledge about the pieces featured, the countries, and art in general. This “scavenger hunt” featuring Figment is actually available as a paid activity. You purchase a Figment’s Brush with the Masters Scavenger Hunt map for $6.99 from several possible locations, and then match the Figment artwork to the artwork featured in the World Showcase pavilions. Turn in your map when you’re done, and you’ll get a prize. It’s fun either way!
Speaking of art, there are not one but two mini-galleries of original and concept art at the festival. Artists, Imagineers and Disney Legends Herb Ryman and Mary Blair have their artwork displayed within (another EPCOT Center holdout) the Odyssey restaurant. There we can see huge versions of Ryman’s original concept art for EPCOT and its Future World pavilions, as well as a selection of Mary Blair’s South American-inspired art pieces. Also within the Odyssey are free – yes FREE – informational sessions from topics like the animation ink and paint process, to different types of tea. There are also paid sessions on specific art topics which include take-home items from the lesson too. As you stroll around World Showcase, there are also classes like origami making or anime drawing in Japan, various chalk displays around the world, and fun photo ops where you become part of a famous work of art. Animation Academy, once held at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, also makes a reappearance in Innoventions during the festival.
The hit of the festival since it opened has been the Paint By Numbers Mural found between Future World and World Showcase. You are given – again, completely free – a tiny cup of paint and a paint brush and told to paint anywhere from 3-5 (depending on how busy it is) squares matching your color to your number. For the first few weekends, it was a Future World image, the full size version of what is available at character meets as the backdrop in the front of Epcot. Last weekend, the mural design was changed to a World Showcase image, which was also a big hit. When the murals are completed, they are changed out for blank canvases and guests can start all over again. It is sponsored by Glidden’s line of Disney-inspired paint names, so that adds for a fun connection.
The seven “Food Studios” (see full list of menu items at that link)as they call the food booths at this event, may be small in number, but the varied items almost all take a unique spin on a classic food item, or highlight favorites with an artistic twist. My favorites were the Classic Reuben, which looks anything but classic with it’s futuristic “rye curl” in place of traditional bread, and the Scallop with Chorizo found in America at The Artist’s Table. Oh, and don’t forget the jaw-dropping Piet Mondrian-inspired cake at Pop Eats! as well as adorable “chocolate easels” which are an edible work of art in the form of Figment, Mickey and Pluto, or Mary Blair designs. (Click to read full captions below)
Classic Reuben with Shredded Corned Beef, Thousand Island Dressing, Pickled Red Cabbage and a Rye Curl
Pan-Seared Scallop with Chorizo, Roasted Red Pepper Coulis and a Parmesan Crisp (GF)
Trio of Savory Croissant Doughnuts: Whipped Herb Cream Cheese with Sea Salt (V) Chicken Mousse with Fresh Herbs & Everything Bagel Seasoning Spicy Tuna with Sriracha Mayonnaise and Sesame Seeds
Sous Vide Venison with Butternut Squash Purée, Pomegranate Reduction, Pickled Turnip and Juniper Berry Powder (GF)
Callebaut Belgian Sipping Chocolate Flight: White, Milk, Dark (non-alcoholic)
Deconstructed Breakfast: Twinings® Spiced Apple Chai Tea Shake with Maple Bourbon Cream, a Waffle Crisp and Candied Bacon (also available in non-alcoholic)
Almond Frangipane Cake layered with Raspberry Jam and Chocolate (photo by Disney)
Chocolate Figment Easel
Bridging the gap from classic art to modern, there are also many booths around World Showcase, featuring Disney artists and local artisans alike. Many of the artists are on hand to sign their work. It’s a great way to build your art collection with some originals or prints and meet your favorite artists at the same time.
Artist Joey Chou signs his work
To top off all that this festival has to offer, at the end of the day, Disney on Broadway Concert Series stars appear at the American Gardens Theatre three times a night, perfoming hit songs from the ever-growing catalog of the Disney Broadway productions. As a huge Broadway musical fan, these shows were the perfect fit. I’ve seen two sets of performers and every show was incredible. Such amazing talent. The shows always seem to have a full house too, so I think this series has been very well received.
Word has spread fast online about this incredible festival, which has quickly become my favorite of the Epcot festival lineup. Every aspect of Artful Epcot fills me with joy, and I hope it returns for years to come, running all week long instead of just long weekends. My only fear is that this charming, quaint, interactive festival that offers so much for so many, will lose that charm if it expands too much. However, I’ll put my confidence in the designers behind the scenes to ensure that doesn’t happen. Part of what made the Festival of the Arts such a success is the way it mixed history with present day, classic with modern, and just enough included opportunities that you don’t feel like you have to shell out premium prices (other than a ticket to the park), to experience all this festival has to offer.
There is just one weekend left to the Epcot Festival of the Arts, so I urge you to get down there, get some paint on your hands and chocolate on your face and ENJOY! If you’ve been, I’d love to hear what your favorite part of the festival was or what you hope is added next time around.
This photo was from back in 2011 at Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration
The Narcoosee’s Waterfront Brunch has been taking place on Sundays since November 22, 2015, with great reaction to the selection of food. Now, Tables in Wonderland just announced that current Tables in Wonderland members will receive their 20% discount on the $69 per adult and $41 per child (3-9) prices. See photo below from Tables in Wonderland for more brunch info. It may be time to renew my Tables in Wonderland membership!
Narcoosee’s is one of my favorite under-appreciated Walt Disney World restaurants, due to its location and beautiful views alone. Located right on the water on the edge of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, it’s a hidden gem. I haven’t been in a while, but last time I was the food was incredible as well. I don’t live with many seafood eaters, so maybe I’ll have to treat my mom to a brunch here soon.
Have you been? What did you think of the brunch (or dinner)?
As you may recall from my recent review of Morimoto Asia, I thought it was a wonderful new addition to the ever-evolving Disney Springs area. I love that they are embracing other local businesses and catering to local guests with their special events like the one listed below – the 3rd Craft Beer Dinner featuring Winter Garden’s own Crooked Can Brewing Co. Read more about it below:
The cherry blossom, or sakura, is widely regarded as Japan’s unofficial national flower. There are dozens of different cherry tree varieties in Japan, most of which bloom for only a couple of days each spring. The seasonal spectacle is celebrated with hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, parties under the trees. It is in this spirit that Crooked Can Brewing Co. worked in partnership with Morimoto Asia to create this unique, seasonal, Cherry Blossom Kolsch. This signature beer will be debuted on March 3rd and is available only at Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs – and like the cherry blossom itself – for a limited time.
WHAT:
Morimoto Asia at Disney Springs is teaming up with Winter Garden-based Crooked Can Brewing Company to host an intimate five-course craft beer pairing dinner. The menu, created by Executive Chef Yuhi Fujinaga, will showcase a selection of modern Pan-Asian dishes. Each course will be paired by Crooked Can brewmasters Kent Waugh and Chad Holloway. Price is $85 per guest all -inclusive. The menu and parings are below.
1st Course
Spring Collection of Shellfish Ceviche
Alaskan king crab, Washington State mirugai, Maine Uni, salmon roe, bean thread noodle
Crooked Can Cherry Blossom Kolsch
2nd Course
Duo of Duck
Morimoto Peking duck served with flour pancakes, hoisin miso, apricot-chili, and scallions
Last night I was treated to two opening celebrations – first the official renaming ceremony of Disney Springs from Downtown Disney. After enjoying some of the drinks and appetizers available at the new Indiana Jones-themed Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar (post on that forthcoming), we headed over to the Amphicar landing area for the renaming. On hand were Disney Springs Vice President Keith Bradford, Disney Springs and ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Senior Vice President Maribeth Bisienere, Walt Disney World Resort President George A. Kalogridis, to dedicate the in-progress renovation and additions to the dining and shopping district. Disney Springs will now consist of 4 four interconnected neighborhoods: The Landing (where the Boathouse, Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar, and Morimoto Asia are located), Marketplace (home to most of the shopping like Co-Op, World of Disney, etc.), West Side (AMC Theatres, D-Street, etc.) and Town Center (currently under construction in the former parking lot areas). When Disney Springs is fully completed in 2016, the number of shopping, dining and entertainment venues will increase from the current 75 to more than 150.
We then headed across the way to Morimoto Asia – located in the former home of Mannequins Dance Club during the Pleasure Island years. The structure immediately stands out as a striking new vista and the beautiful design does not end when you walk through the doors. Making use of all the space the STUDIO V Architecture design features an extraordinary, 36-foot tall, two-story layout with open terraces, private dining rooms, a cocktail lounge, waterside seating and more. Chef Masaharu Morimoto’s first pan-Asian restaurant provides flavors from across Asia with unique exhibition kitchens showcasing the continent’s traditions. Included among them are street-food stalls, Peking duck carving and dim sum. We were treated to some samples last night, but I can’t wait to go back with my family and enjoy the full menu.
Gorgeous lighting and main dining area
Looking in to the private dining rooms
From the second floor, overlooking main dining and bar to the left
Second floor sushi bar and private dining rooms
Inside the private dining rooms
The glass doors open from inside the private dining spaces
Table setting
Outdoor seating – a little wet last night!
More outdoor seating, overlooking the Town Center construction
Mickey is definitely present in Morimoto Asia
The grand opening
Mickey and Chef Morimoto
Chef Morimoto carving a 100lb tuna
The finished 60 feet of tuna sushi roll
I couldnt resist asking for a photo with the famous Iron Chef! 😉
Beautiful tile work in the Forbidden Bar
Morimoto Asia at night
Of what we tried last night, the Tempura Rock Shrimp appetizer and the L.A. BBQ Kalbi (boneless grilled short ribs) were my favorites. We were also treated to a tuna carving and sushi rolling demonstration by Morimoto himself, as he carved a 100lb tuna and then with the aid of his sushi chefs and even attendees, rolled the 60 foot sushi roll and sliced it up for guests. We were also able to try some of the signature drinks, and it seems like there will be a wide variety of cocktails for the Orlando locals and visitors alike. I can’t wait to return to give a full review on more of the menu items. For now, I’ll say the prices definitely seem on par with other area restaurants, and certainly no more than the P.F. Changs chain. Prices may be viewed on the attached menu photos. Most appetizers were in the $8 range with most entrees coming in around $20-30+ with a few specialty items bumping things up to $40+. (click to expand to full-size photos)
L.A. BBQ Kalbi – boneless shortrib
Chicken Shumai
Lemongrass Mojito and White Lily cocktails
Veggie Sushi Roll
Tuna Sashimi
Duck Caesar Salad
Chocolate Creme and Crunch dessert
Churro Fondue dessert
Mochi Mochi dessert
Dinner Menu cover
Dinner Menu back cover
Dinner menu page 1
Dinner menu page 2
Sushi meni
Sushi bar menu
Dessert and cocktail menu
Dessert menu
Honestly, the part I enjoyed the most about Morimoto last night was simply the atmosphere and the amazing restaurant design itself. It was dazzling and elegant without being stuffy, I just wanted to take it all in and didn’t want to leave at the end of the night. I think it will be an absolutely perfect addition to the Disney Springs line-up, and Walt Disney World Resort in general.
Gorgeous hanging chandeliersI loved the white ribbon-like element that wound its way through the bar and over the stairs
I know, I know, it’s still summer – it’s still hot – (over 100 here at Walt Disney World!) but I find myself drifting to thoughts of cool autumn breezes, falling leaves, and pumpkins…Okay, maybe some of those things don’t exactly happen here in Florida, but a girl can dream. Believe it or not, “Orlando Halloween” is right around the corner (that’s what we locals call it when Halloween descends upon the area in early August while we’re all sweating in the sun) and that means lots of fun options to get in the Fall spirit. And while I may still be working on my summer vacation reports, I still wanted to put together a list of my top 5 favorite things about this time of the year at the Walt Disney World Resort.
1. Autumn Decorations
Being from Massachusetts, I miss the leaves turning color, the cold, crisp air blowing in, and visions of pumpkins and hay bales at every turn. Luckily, Disney has you covered and makes Main Street, U.S.A. feel like the Autumn I grew up loving. You just have to find some air conditioning for the crisp air part. The decorations may also be found around the Downtown Disney area. It’ll be interesting to see how things are done this year with all the Disney Springs construction going on. For a fun treat, head over to Fort Wilderness and take a stroll (or rent a golf cart) to see the amazing decorations the guests there do at their campsites. It’s unbelievable how much some of them do!
Carlotta provides interactive Haunted Mansion fun
2. Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
One of my absolute favorite special ticketed events at Walt Disney World. You just can’t beat the fun you get to experience here with the twice-nightly “Mickey’s Boo-To-You Halloween Parade” led by the infamous Headless Horseman, at 8:15 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. and “HalloWishes,” a green and orange fireworks spectacle complete with Disney villains, caps the evening festivities at 9:30 p.m. The parade is one of my favorites ever. The grave-diggers are so much fun and the costumes for all the parade sections are wonderful. It really gets you in the Halloween-y mood!
Of course the trick-or-treating is a key selling point of the party, kids and adults alike love getting candy and treats from all the different locations around the park. And don’t forget to get your special Sorcerer’s of the Magic Kingdom card that’s special only for the party – show your party ticket and wrist band to pick up your card at the Main Street Firehouse during party hours.
And, keep reading below for some Halloween treats that you must try! Party dates for 2014 are: September 1, 9, 12, 14, 16, 19, 21, 23, 26 & 28 and October 2, 3, 5, 9, 10, 13, 16, 17, 19, 21, 23, 24, 26, 27, 30 & 31. Advance purchase (prior to event day) savings are available for select dates. Visit Disneyworld.com/Halloween for party dates and prices, or call 407-W-DISNEY.
Sorcerer’s of the Magic Kingdom Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party card 2014
3. Fall-themed Treats
Last year, we were really treated to some delicious treats during the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and later some were offered in the Magic Kingdom too. I hope all of these will be back this year, and maybe more new ones too! My absolute favorite was the pumpkin waffle sundae pictured below, it was the perfect mix of waffle, ice cream, and Fall! You can see more about these treats and more to do at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party on my Top 5 Must-do’s at Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party post.
It’s always fun to see the new Halloween merchandise this time of year. Popcorn buckets, t-shirts, Mouse Ears and more! Soon we’ll have a place to purchase Haunted Mansion merchandise year round! Whether you’re looking for something haunted, or your favorite characters in their Halloween gear, there is something for everyone this time of year.
What’s your favorite type of Disney Halloween merchandise to take home? Is your house decorated with a Disney theme?
5. Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival
Another reason to visit Walt Disney World Resort this time of year is without a doubt, the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. This year marks the 19th year of enjoying unique and delicious foods, wines, beers, desserts and more around the World Showcase at Epcot. This little festival has grown so much since it first began. There are now countless special dining and tasting events, classes, seminars, after hours and VIP parties, and just plain amazing food (and merchandise!). I love being able to walk around World Showcase at night (usually on a weeknight, it’s much less crowded!) and just enjoy things I may not ever normally try. It’s like a mobile date-night with a view. We’ll have more coverage of the items offered this year, so stay tuned and follow along on instagram, twitter and facebook for the latest photo-finds.
New this year: the Patagonia booth will offer Verlasso Salmon
So what are your favorite reasons to visit Walt Disney World this time of year? Have you been before? What are your must-do’s? I’d love to hear about them in the comments below!
A flair of Mary Blair that is. Cheap rhyme aside, I was so pleasantly surprised by the newly re-imagined California Grill, which pays tribute to the art and artistry of Disney Legend Mary Blair, famous for the Grand Canyon Concourse mosaics found within Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The color scheme on the upholstery, carpets, art and more all honor the original colors found when the Contemporary first opened. It is a wonderful mix of mid-century modern aesthetics, with sleek state-of-the art accompaniments found throughout the restaurant.
The now floor-to-ceiling windows offer even more incredible views than before, streaming in light from all around. On the night we arrived, a thunderstorm had just ended, providing an incredible rainbow right over the resort. When we got upstairs, we could see not only the gorgeous sunset but also the storm in the distance; an unrivaled panorama of Walt Disney World Resort scenery.
Mixed in with the regular tables and booths are now long tables which seat 10 over on one side of the restaurant. There is also seating at the bar, where a special sushi menu is offered for guests seated at that location. The private rooms are also still available as well and offer even more tributes to Mary Blair with reproductions of her artwork. I just can’t express enough how wonderful it is to see Mary Blair and her work in such a special location.
New color schemes at California Grill are a tribute to the original Contemporary Resort
The food we sampled was incredible, from the Pacific halibut with parsnip silk, roasted heirloom beets, arugula, macadamia vinaigrette and beet syrup, to updates of longtime favorites, such as Pork Two Ways, now grilled tenderloin and lacquered pork belly with goat cheese polenta and mushrooms – my favorite! The oak-fired filet of beef is served with heirloom tomato risotto, marinated baby vine tomatoes and basil was just perfect. Sonoma goat cheese ravioli returns in a tomato fennel broth with crispy shiitake mushrooms.
And don’t forget the sushi! The Grill’s popular sushi menu expands with a 12-course omakase menu that includes a tasting of the restaurant’s freshest ingredients (not just fish and seafood). Omakase means “to entrust,” and there’s no menu. “You just let the chef prepare fresh sushi dishes for you, perfect for sushi fans who want to try new tastes,” says Executive Chef Brian Piasecki. The menu might include ama ebi (sweet shrimp) tempura, lobster sashimi, crunchy Japanese bone marrow with sesame beef tartare and red onion marmalade, and spicy-crusted oysters.
I cannot wait to get back and try full-size portions of some of these, at which time I’ll offer a full review of my experience. The mix of side items and the presentation really live up to California Grill’s existing reputation – and surpass it. This will now be a must-visit for a special occasion dining experience, date night, or just a wonderful gourmet meal. While I love trying new things, I’m not a food reviewer, and certainly didn’t have the old California Grill menu memorized, so for a ‘first-timer’ so to speak, I was really satisfied and impressed with what I tried. Hopefully based on the photos below and descriptions of ingredients above, you can decide if the California Grill will work for you and your guests. Dessert descriptions are listed in the gallery below.
The wall of wine immediately catches your eye when you step off the elevator; 1600 bottles on display, with 250 wines on the list, 80 by the glass. There also are 10 varieties of sake, eight kinds of craft beers and ciders, and signature cocktails created just for California Grill, such as the sake martini, which I sampled and really enjoyed. I am not usually a fan of sake on its own, but this was a light, sweet, tropical drink and a great way to enjoy sake.
For more scenes from the new California Grill, see the gallery below, and click to enlarge any photos:
View from the California Grill
View of the Grand Floridian
Unique mod lighting in California Grill
Banquette seating in Mary Blair style
Banquette seating in Mary Blair style
Sake Martini
California Grill dining room
View at sunset
The bar at California Grill
Another view of the sunset – the perfect time to visit!
Place setting
The Napa Room for private dining
Artwork in the Napa Room
More Napa Room art
Another wall of Napa Room art
The Napa Room
Love the details in the Napa Room
Behind the host stand at California Grill
The sushi accompaniments
Some sushi offerings – including pork belly sushi!
Chopsticks!
Chefs preparing our samples
The open kitchen
A sample of the California Grill favorites
Mary Blair artwork from the Monterrey Room
Mary Blair artwork from the Monterrey Room
Mary Blair is honored with vintage photos
Mary Blair sketching
California Grill menus
A sampling of the desserts – clockwise from top left, the lemon meringe, which was like a cheesecake consistency with a nice shortbread crust and hardened meringue topper, the strawberry basil sundae is part of the trio pictured below, then the chocolate pudding cake described a few photos down, the banana fritters with house-made marshmallow and caramel. This was really unique, like fried banana bread, dense and moist with a nice caramel complement, and the caramel corn pot is also part of the trio in the next photo.
California Grill Sundae Sampler: caramel corn, Coca-Cola float, and strawberry and basil.(Jimmy DeFlippo, photographer)
So much chocolate!
This was my favorite dessert – chocolate pudding cake with fresh mint whipped cream, house-made mint marshmallow and a chocolate meringue kiss
Sugar sculpture
Wishes from the California Grill viewing platform
The refurbished California Grill has instantly become my favorite new spot in all of Walt Disney World. Perfect views and ambiance, wonderful Mary Blair touches for Disney fans to appreciate, and wonderful food to complement the entire experience. Truly a jewel in the Walt Disney World crown. I hope to get back sooner than later! Speaking of, reservations are now available (if you can find any) to book at 407-WDW-DINE, online or using the My Disney Experience app.
What do you think of the new look?
Disclaimer: I was invited to preview the new California Grill and its food at a press event. I was not asked or required to post in any way and my opinions above are my own. It’s just THAT good!
The newest snack spot in Epcot’s World Showcase opened today over in the France pavilion. The much anticipated L’Artisan des Glaces ice cream and sorbet shop is now open and serving up 16 flavors of fun – ooh là là!
In the completely refurbished former patisserie area of France, L’Artisan des Glaces is set within a rustic, stone cottage building with turret (as before), but is open and airy inside, giving the feel of a country dairy shop. In fact, there are dairy touches throughout: milk bottles, milk canisters, even a milk bottle chandelier! The set up is different than before, with two registers allowing you to pay first, then choose a cup or a cone and pick your flavor. You then move down the line to pick up your order.
The 16 flavors available at L’Artisan des Glaces are: Vanilla, Chocolate, Mint Chocolate, Pistachio, Hazelnut, Profiterole, Caramel fleur de sel (salted caramel), Cherry, Coco-White Chocolate, Coffee, and 6 sorbet flavors: Strawberry, Mango, Melon, Lemon, Pomegranate, and Mixed Berries. These flavors are made in-house and may change periodically – I’m hoping for fun seasonal options.
Unique to L’Artisan des Glaces is the adult-only sundae with liquor – 2 scoops of ice cream or sorbet served in a martini glass with a shot of Grand Marnier, Epic brand Whipped Cream Vodka, or Clement Rhum from Martinique for $11.50. One scoop of plain ice cream or sorbet is $3.99 while two scoops are $6.10 and are served in a waffle cone or a cup.
Here is a gallery of the new establishment, sure to be the popular place to be this summer and from now on! What flavor are you going to get first? I’m intrigued by the Profiterole, Hazelnut and Coco-White Chocolate! The sorbets will be so refreshing in the heat as well. Click to enlarge the photos and view as a slideshow:
New L’Artisan des Glaces sign
Also a new window and additional sign
The place is small, so anticipate a line this summer!
Pricing for ice cream and sorbet
Flavors to choose from
Make your choice!
Rustic decor
Papers for the waffle cones
Milk bottle chandelier is such a cute touch!
Milk bottle and canister displays
Scooping into a cup
Pick up sign
Merci!
Mademoiselle Rose is happy with her choice!
Huge thanks to Scott Otis for providing the photos and info in this post.
