When it comes to exploring the world’s diverse cuisines, Epcot at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, stands as a beacon for culinary adventurers. Among the array of international dining options, Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria offers a truly authentic taste of Italy that transports guests to the charming streets of Naples.
Walking into Via Napoli is like stepping into a traditional Italian pizzeria. The warm and rustic ambiance welcomes visitors with open arms, exuding the cozy and convivial atmosphere characteristic of family-owned eateries in Italy. From the warm hues of the walls to the wooden tables and chairs, every detail has been meticulously designed to evoke the spirit of Naples. The centerpiece of the restaurant is the wood-fired pizza oven, an impressive structure named “Fornace” that was handcrafted in Italy and can reach temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, ensuring the perfect Neapolitan-style pizzas.
The heart and soul of Via Napoli lies in its menu, which showcases the artistry and precision of Neapolitan cuisine. The menu boasts an impressive selection of antipasti, pasta, seafood, and delectable desserts. However, the true star of the show is undoubtedly the pizza. Each pizza is a masterpiece crafted from the finest ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. The dough is prepared using a time-honored technique that results in a light and airy crust with just the right amount of chewiness.
One of the standout offerings is the Margherita pizza, a classic Neapolitan creation that celebrates simplicity. The vibrant red tomatoes, the creamy white mozzarella, and the vibrant green basil create a visually appealing masterpiece that delivers a burst of flavors in every bite. For those seeking something more adventurous, the Carciofi pizza features artichoke, fontina cheese, and truffle oil—a combination that tantalizes the taste buds with its earthy and indulgent notes.
Dining at Via Napoli is not just about indulging in exquisite food; it’s an immersive experience that transports you to the heart of Italy. The bustling open kitchen allows guests to witness the chefs skillfully stretching dough and crafting pizzas by hand. The aroma of wood-fired pizzas wafts through the air, enticing appetites and igniting a sense of anticipation.
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria in Epcot offers more than just a meal—it offers a journey to the authentic flavors of Italy. With its inviting ambiance, traditional craftsmanship, and a menu that pays homage to the culinary heritage of Naples, Via Napoli captures the essence of Italy’s vibrant food culture. Whether you’re a connoisseur of Italian cuisine or simply a curious explorer, this dining experience is sure to leave an indelible mark on your taste buds and your heart, inviting you to savor the beauty of Italy, one slice of pizza at a time.
Imagine straddling the back of a powerful, winged banshee as you dip and soar through the breathtaking landscapes of Pandora. This exhilarating experience is brought to life in the form of “Avatar Flight of Passage,” a groundbreaking attraction nestled within Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park.
“Avatar Flight of Passage” takes guests on a remarkable journey through the mystical world of Pandora, inspired by James Cameron’s blockbuster film “Avatar.” The attraction seamlessly blends cutting-edge technology, storytelling prowess, and immersive design to transport riders into the heart of the lush and vibrant landscape.
As visitors don their 3D glasses and mount their own “Ikran,” or banshee, they’re treated to a sensory extravaganza. The attraction’s innovative 3D projection and motion simulator technology combine to create an incredibly realistic experience. You’ll feel the banshee’s heartbeat beneath you and the wind rush past as you glide above oceans, forests, and floating mountains.
What truly sets “Flight of Passage” apart is the emotional connection it forges. The attraction’s storytelling prowess shines as riders are linked to the banshee through a unique, scientific process. This connection enables participants to experience the banshee’s flight with all the accompanying emotions – from exhilaration to awe. The attention to detail, right down to the banshee’s deep breaths, adds an extra layer of immersion that leaves an indelible mark on visitors.
“Avatar Flight of Passage” also aligns with Disney’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The attraction’s narrative emphasizes the importance of respecting and preserving nature, making it a fitting addition to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, a park dedicated to both entertainment and conservation.
Beyond the technological marvel and exhilarating flight, “Avatar Flight of Passage” carries a cultural significance. The attraction underscores the power of imagination and the ability of entertainment to bring people together. It’s a testament to the magic of storytelling that bridges gaps and transcends boundaries, as well as a tribute to the film’s universal themes of unity and harmony.
“Avatar Flight of Passage” isn’t just an attraction; it’s an otherworldly experience that taps into the wonder of imagination, technology, and emotional engagement. It’s a journey that whisks you away to a realm of beauty and awe, all while promoting environmental awareness. For those seeking to step into a fantastical realm and embrace the magic of flight, “Avatar Flight of Passage” offers an unforgettable adventure that stays with you long after you’ve touched down.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort, an iconic monorail-clad masterpiece, stands as a testament to Disney’s ability to seamlessly blend modern luxury with the enchantment of the Disney experience. Located at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, this resort holds a special place in the hearts of visitors for its unique architecture, prime location, and the magical memories it creates.
The Contemporary Resort’s design is a striking departure from the traditional Disney castle aesthetic. Designed by modernist architect Welton Becket, the resort’s sleek lines, futuristic styling, and the monorail that glides directly through its main building make it a marvel of mid-century modern architecture. The A-frame structure is an architectural feat that was groundbreaking when it opened in 1971, and it remains a visual wonder to this day.
One of the resort’s most appealing features is its unparalleled location. Situated right next to the Magic Kingdom theme park, it offers guests stunning views of Cinderella’s Castle and easy access to the park via the monorail. Imagine waking up to the sight of the sun rising over the Magic Kingdom or watching the fireworks light up the night sky from your room’s balcony – these are experiences that only Disney’s Contemporary Resort can provide.
The resort boasts a range of accommodations to suit different preferences, from standard rooms to suites. Regardless of the room category, each space is designed with comfort and sophistication in mind. The sleek design elements are complemented by modern amenities, ensuring that guests have everything they need for a memorable stay.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is also a culinary haven, offering a variety of dining options that cater to diverse tastes. The California Grill, perched atop the resort, is a signature dining experience that offers panoramic views of the Magic Kingdom while serving up delectable dishes. Chef Mickey’s, a character dining favorite, allows families to enjoy a fun-filled meal with classic Disney characters. And for those looking for something more laid-back, the Contempo Café offers quick-service comfort food with a modern twist.
What truly sets Disney’s Contemporary Resort apart is the integration of Disney magic into every aspect of the guest experience. From the monorail cruising through the main building to the whimsical artwork and Mickey Mouse-themed details sprinkled throughout, the resort ensures that the enchantment of Disney is never far away.
Beyond its physical features, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has an intangible quality that makes it a cherished destination for families, couples, and Disney enthusiasts alike. It’s a place where generations come together to create memories that last a lifetime – whether it’s a child’s first glimpse of a beloved Disney character or a couple’s romantic dinner with a view of the castle.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that encapsulates the essence of Disney’s magic and innovation. Its architectural marvel, prime location, luxurious accommodations, diverse dining options, and the intangible sense of wonder it evokes all contribute to making it a truly exceptional destination. For those seeking a blend of modern comfort and enchanting adventure, Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Disney dream.
Guests who are staying at a Disney World hotel comes with numerous benefits beyond just the theming. Guests can take advantage of convenient transportation options, like the monorail system and buses, which provide easy access to the theme parks and other attractions. Additionally, guests can enjoy extended park hours, allowing them to spend more time in the parks outside of regular operating hours.
Disney World, like any other hospitality establishment, strives to maintain high cleanliness and hygiene standards to minimize the presence of pests. Disney World hotels and resorts generally prioritize guest satisfaction, which includes addressing any concerns related to pests promptly and professionally. If a guest encounters bugs in their room, it’s recommended to report the issue to the hotel’s front desk or guest services.
In a social media post, guests staying at All-Star Movies encountered several bugs. As they stated in the post when in Florida bugs are looking for somewhere to hide from the heat. This guest room was being overrun by gnats they counted for fun and found 18 bugs. While searching for bugs they realized their room had a decent amount of dust. This guest was wondering if daily housekeeping would cut the amount of bugs down.
I get it, it’s Florida, and things are always buggy.
“We booked our room at All Star Movies and found a few bugs in the bathroom by the shower and by the sink. Whatever, it’s fine. Bugs happen. The following morning we wake up to 18 (my kids thought it would be fun to count) gnats in the sink, about 7 in the shower, and two dead long and skinny ones on the edge of the bed. Upon checking out the room further, there was a significant amount of dust in the corners of the room, and the garbage pail was sticky at the bottom of it. I felt it was time to call the front desk. It just didn’t feel clean. I never, ever complain about my room, and being a Florida resident, I understand the bug situation completely. I don’t care if it’s a value resort, I’m still paying around $150 a night. And it doesn’t even include daily housekeeping.”
I’m just curious as to what everyone else tolerates in terms of bugs in your resort room. Obviously, the value and moderate resorts will have more, due to the doors going to the outside, but I feel like the lack of daily housekeeping plays a major part in it too.”
While the presence of bugs can be alarming, it’s worth noting that isolated incidents can occur even in well-maintained establishments due to factors such as weather conditions, local environment, and guest behavior. To minimize the risk of attracting pests, guests should avoid leaving food uncovered, keep windows and doors closed when not in use, and dispose of trash properly.
If you encounter bugs during your stay at a Disney World hotel, it’s advisable to address the issue directly with the hotel staff. Remain respectful and understanding, as they will likely work to resolve the problem promptly while ensuring your overall experience remains as enjoyable as possible.
We’re just a few days away from September, and the fall season is quickly approaching. Disney has released the Foodie Guide for early Halloween treats at Disney Springs and Walt Disney World resorts.
Get pump(kin)ed because Halloween is nearly here at Walt Disney World Resort. As fall arrives, so do the treats. In the coming weeks, delights will be landing at various locations at Disney Springs and select Disney Resort hotels, with even more goodies coming in October – so keep your eyes peeled on Disney Eats and the Disney Parks Blog for those!
Starting as early as Sept. 1, the chefs will be dusting off their cauldrons and making some potions of their own with eats and sips that will put a spell on you with each and every bite. From the adorably delicious Donald Candy Corn-Chocolate Piñata at The Ganachery to the Plant-based Monster Cupcake available at multiple Disney Resort hotels, this year is sure to be filled with plenty of treats, and maybe even some tricks.
As an avid Halloween enthusiast, I am very excited to sink my teeth into these goodies. And trust me, once you see this Foodie Guide, you will too.
“Bone” appétit!
Disney Springs
Amorette’s Patisserie(Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Jack Skellington Éclair: Pumpkin cream éclair (New)
Sally Éclair: Caramel-chocolate éclair (New)
Oogie Boogie Cream Puff: Cream puff filled with cookies ‘n cream mousse and topped with whipped cream (New)
Maleficent Petit Cake: Layers of vanilla chiffon, caramel, shortbread crumble, and milk chocolate mousse (New)
Mummy Mickey Mouse Dome Cake: Layers of peanut butter-milk chocolate mousse, chewy caramel, peanut crunch, and dark chocolate glaçage (New)
Dockside Margaritas(Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4)
Frozen Black Cherry and Apple-Lime Margarita: Patrón Silver Tequila, Grand Marnier Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, lime juice, black cherry purée, and Granny Smith apple garnished with an orange wedge and a cherry
The Ganachery
Donald Candy Corn-Chocolate Piñata: White chocolate piñata filled with pumpkin-spiced marshmallows and crisp pearls (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Pirate Mickey Chocolate Piñata: Milk chocolate piñata with crisp pearls, chocolate treasure coins, and marshmallow treats (Available Oct. 15 through 31)
Jack Skellington Dark Ganache: Grand Cru medium-roasted, custom blend (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Poison Apple Ganache Square: Sour apple ganache enrobed in 65% dark chocolate(Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Pumpkin Chai Ganache Square (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Minnie Trick-or-Treat Chocolate Pop: Caramel ganache pop enrobed in 65% dark chocolate (Available Sept. 6 through Oct. 31)
Caramel Ganache Chocolate Skulls: 65% dark chocolate skulls filled with caramel ganache (Available Oct. 1 through Oct. 31)
Haunted Mansion Portrait Bars: Ganache bars with flavors of raspberry, salted caramel, chipotle, and passion fruit (Available through Oct. 31)
Hitchhiking Ghosts Chocolate Chiller: A chilling blend of three chocolates, malted milk, and cream (Non-alcoholic) (Available Sept. 15 through Oct. 31)
Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Witch’s Potion: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, St. Augustine Gin, Bols Blue Curaçao Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, splash of grenadine, and a splash of soda water garnished with a lemon wheel and hibiscus flower (New) (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4)
Cinnamon-Pear Cocktail: Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, pear nectar, lemon juice, and cinnamon simple syrup garnished with a cinnamon stick (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 30)
Marketplace Snacks(Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31)
Swirls on the Water(Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31)
Haunted Mansion Cone: Pistachio and purple cheesecake soft-serve swirled in a black vanilla cone with a Hitchhiking Ghosts chocolate medallion (New)
DOLE Whip Sampler: DOLE Whip and vanilla soft-serve with pineapple wedge, pumpkin and salted caramel soft-serve with caramel sauce and caramel crisp pearls, and pistachio soft-serve and purple cheesecake soft-serve with roasted salted pistachios (New)
Apple Cider Slush with Pumpkin Soft Serve: Apple cider, pumpkin soft-serve, and an apple slice (Non-alcoholic) (Alcoholic version available with Fireball Cinnamon Whisky) (New)
Vivoli il Gelato(Currently available)
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bomboloni: An Italian doughnut stuffed with pumpkin cheesecake filling (New)
Pumpkin Cheesecake Bombashake: A milkshake made with pumpkin and cheesecake gelato, caramel sauce, and a Pumpkin Cheesecake Bomboloni on top (New)
Jack-O-Lantern Float: Vanilla gelato, Fanta Orange, and whipped cream (Non-alcoholic)
Monster Shake: Mint Chocolate Chip gelato, chocolate sauce, whipped cream, and chocolate chips (Non-alcoholic)
Apple Cider Cocktail: Fireball Cinnamon Whiskey, Stoli Vanil Vodka, apple cider juice, red cranberry juice, and grenadine (New)
Halloween Rum Punch: Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Captain Morgan Original Spiced Rum, Bols Blue Curaçao Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, cranberry juice, and grenadine
Sour Apple Margarita: Patrón Silver Tequila, Cointreau Liqueur, DeKuyper Pucker Sour Apple Liqueur, sweet-and-sour, lime juice, and Granny Smith Apple garnished with a lime
Disney Resort Hotels
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, and Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort – World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court and End Zone Food Court (Mobile order available)
Chicken Adobo Nachos: Blue corn tortilla chips with grilled chicken adobo, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, roasted corn pico, and a zesty pumpkin cheese sauce finished with a cilantro-lime crema and yellow corn tortilla strips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; not available at World Premiere Food Court)
Mickey Pumpkin Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake-chocolate-ginger torte with almond crumble (Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 30)
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Boma – Flavors of Africa, Sanaa, Sanaa Lounge, and Victoria Falls Lounge (Available Sept. 15 through Oct. 31)
Doom-ela South African Margarita: Margarita featuring Patrón Silver Tequila with a South African Excelsior Cabernet Sauvignon floater
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort – Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining(Mobile order available)
Chicken Adobo Nachos: Blue corn tortilla chips with grilled chicken adobo, toasted pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, roasted corn pico, and a zesty pumpkin cheese sauce finished with a cilantro-lime crema and yellow corn tortilla strips (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31)
The Whoopie Monster: Apple and caramel whoopie pie with marshmallow buttercream (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31)
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort – Centertown Market (Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 30; mobile order available)
Pumpkin-Hazelnut Tart: Chocolate tart shell filled with hazelnut ganache and spiced pumpkin cheesecake garnished with chocolate décor and candied pumpkin seeds (New)
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory(Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available)
Scat Cat’s Club – Café (Available through Oct. 31)
Ghoulish Delight Beignets: Three Mickey-shaped beignets dusted with cookies and cream powdered sugar and a ghoulish marshmallow crème drizzle
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside – Riverside Mill Food Court and Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available)
Pumpkin Napoleon: Pumpkin diplomat cream, spiced diplomat cream, and dark chocolate (New)
Primo Piatto(Available Sept. 1 through Nov. 24; mobile order available)
Pumpkin-Hazelnut-Chocolate Swirl Cheesecake: Pumpkin cheesecake with hazelnut-chocolate swirl, vanilla whipped panna cotta, and a milk chocolate pumpkin coin
Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera(Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 25)
Apple Tarte Tatin: Praline noisette, apricot jelly, and Chantilly cream (New)
Disney’s Old Key West Resort and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Good’s Food to Go and The Artist’s Palette(Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 30; mobile order available at The Artist’s Palette only)
Mini Pumpkin: Pumpkin mousse, caramel, dulce crunch, and chocolate décor (New)
Available at Various Disney Resort Hotel Food Courts(Available Sept. 1 through Oct. 31; mobile order available)
Plant-based Monster Cupcake: Allergy-friendly chocolate cupcake with a ghoulish swirl of vanilla buttercream (New) (Plant-based) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly); Available at the following locations:
World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies ResortIntermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music ResortEnd Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports ResortLandscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation ResortCentertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach ResortEverything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Wow! What a way to start the Halloween season at Walt Disney World Resort. I can’t wait to share with you even more items for you to trick or treat yourself with soon. With so many treats like this, the delicious adventures are limitless!
