Disney Unveils Special Valentine’s Day Treats at Disney Parks

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and if you’ll be celebrating at Disney Parks, you’ll find no shortage of special treats available for a limited time. 

Love is in the air – and treats will soon be in your stomachs – because Valentine’s Day is nearly here. The Disney chefs and mixologists are concocting love potions of their own this year with delicious flavors that will awaken your heart and taste buds.

Both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort are about to take you to cloud nine with the sweet and savory sips and eats being served up as Feb. 14 draws near. Embrace the season of love with delights like the wildly adorable Zebra Mousse Cake at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the can’t-miss Beauty and the Beast Cake at Disney Springs, and, of course, the beautifully delicious Sweetheart Sundae at Disney California Adventure park.

I think it’s finally time to fall in love with flavor. Grab your loved ones, friends, or simply treat yourself with the Valentine’s Day goodies in this Disney Eats Foodie Guide!

Walt Disney World Resort 

Walt Disney World Resorts 

Available at Various Resorts (Available through Feb. 28; mobile order available) 

    • My (Plant-based) Sweetheart Chocolate cupcake with a love-ly swirl of vanilla buttercream and sprinkles (New) (Plant-based Item) (Wheat/ Gluten Friendly); Available at the following:
    • World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
    • Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
    • End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
    • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
    • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Spyglass Grill at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
    • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
    • Everything POP Shopping & Dining at Disney’s Pop Century Resort

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 (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Be My Valentine Sweet Treat Bag: Sugar cookies with house-made vanilla and raspberry marshmallows (New) 

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge 

Boma – Flavors of Africa (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Zebra Domes: The classic Amarula mousse and white chocolate dessert with the addition of a pink stripe

Jiko – The Cooking Place (Available Feb. 13 and 14 only) 

    • Wild About Mousse: Madagascan milk chocolate mousse, pistachio sponge, marinated citrus, and candied almonds (New) 

The Mara (Available Feb. 10 through 14; mobile order available) 

    • Zebra Mousse Cake: Amarula mousse cake inspired by the flavors of the iconic Zebra Domes (New) 

Sanaa (Available Feb. 13 and 14 only)

    • Bananas For Mousse: Banana cake, peanut butter mousse, banana jam, banana cream, candied almonds, and caramel (New) 

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort 

Landscape of Flavors and Everything POP Shopping & Dining (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Chocolate cupcake with hazelnut filling, chocolate hazelnut buttercream, white chocolate heart décor, and sprinkles (New) 

Disney’s Beach Club Resort 

Beach Club Marketplace (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Sweets For My Sweet: Layers of cream cheese mousse, strawberry filling, vanilla cake, and a crispy strawberry vanilla base with glaçage and white chocolate décor (New) 

Beaches & Cream Soda Shop (Available through Feb. 28) 

    • Strawberry Minnie Milkshake: Strawberry milkshake with strawberry purée, red sprinkles, and a Minnie Mouse vanilla cupcake (New) 

Disney’s BoardWalk 

BoardWalk Deli (Available through Feb. 14) 

    • Strawberry Cheesecake Brownie: Strawberry cheesecake with chocolate cream and pink crisp pearls on a fudgy brownie (New)

Flying Fish (Available Feb. 14 only) 

    • Cocoa Breach: Vanilla custard, chocolate bavarois, and feuilletine crunch with a heart-shaped overlay

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort 

Centertown Market (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Dessert Bites: Mini brownies, white chocolate-dipped strawberry, and raspberry ganache-filled tart with buttercream (New) 

Disney’s Contemporary Resort 

California Grill (Available Feb. 14 only) 

    • Valrhona Ganache Torte: Whipped vanilla panna cotta, chocolate soil, strawberry gel, raspberry ganache macaron, and a chocolate-covered strawberry (New) 

Contempo Café (Available Feb. 10 through 14; mobile order available) 

    • Chocolate-covered Strawberry Cake: Chocolate cake filled with strawberry jam topped with strawberry buttercream and ganache

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort 

Barcelona Lounge (Available through Feb. 14) 

    • Passion Éclair: Choux pastry filled with a tart passion fruit ganache and topped with swirls of strawberry ganache, crisp white chocolate pearls, and chocolate hearts (New) 

Three Bridges Bar and Grill at Villa del Lago (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Guava Cheesecake: Guava and lime cheesecake on a coconut lime crust with strawberry variations and sugared puff pastry hearts (New)

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa 

Gasparilla Island Grill (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Almond Cheesecake Heart: Heart-shaped almond cheesecake with chocolate sponge cake enrobed in dark chocolate (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 through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Love Letter Cupcake: Chocolate cupcake, strawberry pastry cream, chocolate mousse, and buttercream

Disney’s Riviera Resort 

Le Petit Café (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Valentine’s Day Chocolate Box with a raspberry macaron, hazelnut praline truffles, and Riviera brownie

Topolino’s Terrace (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Cupid’s Plated Dessert: Amaretto mousse, fruits rouge reduction, dark chocolate crumble, and raspberry sorbet (New) 

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort 

Kona Island (Available Feb. 9 through 14) 

    • Stitch and Angel Date Night: The ‘perfect pair’ of vanilla cupcakes – one with chocolate and peanut butter mousse filling and the other with peanut butter mousse and jelly filling (New) 

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Riverside 

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory and Riverside Mill Food Court (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Dessert Bites: Mini brownies, white chocolate-dipped strawberry, and raspberry ganache-filled tart with buttercream (New) 

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge 

Roaring Fork (Available Feb. 10 through 14; mobile order available) 

    • Love Bug Marshmallow: Strawberry marshmallow with a ganache center on a graham cracker cookie (New) 
    • Honey Bee Mousse: White chocolate Earl Grey mousse with honey-lemon gelée center on almond cake (New) (Wheat/Gluten Friendly)

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

The Market at Ale & Compass (Available through Feb. 14; mobile order available) 

    • Sweets For My Sweet: Layers of cream cheese mousse, strawberry filling, vanilla cake, and a crispy strawberry vanilla base with glaçage and white chocolate décor (New) 

Disney Springs 

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Valentine’s Entremet: Champagne strawberry mousse, strawberry pate de fruit, vanilla chiffon, and dark chocolate crunch (New)
    • Beauty and the Beast Cake: Almond chiffon, cherry jam, cream cheese filling, red wine dark chocolate mousse, white chocolate pretzels, and red wine simple syrup (New) 
    • Raspberry Éclair: Raspberry panna cotta, raspberry jam, lemon curd, and raspberry crispies (New) 
    • Amorette’s Heart: Cherry mousse, chocolate biscuit, hibiscus lemonade mousse, and pistachio crunch (New) 
    • Strawberry Cheesecake: New York cheesecake, strawberry crunch, fresh strawberries, and meringue kisses (New) 
    • Little Love Strawberries: Strawberries dipped in ruby chocolate, white chocolate, and strawberry chocolate (New) 

The Ganachery

    • Sparkling Strawberry Square (Available through Feb. 14) 
    • Valentine Marshmallow Pop (Available through Feb. 14)
    • Sweetheart Minnie Mouse Pinata (Available through Feb. 28)
    • Strawberry S’more (New) (Available through Feb. 14)

Sprinkles (Available through Feb. 19) 

    • Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cupcake + Layer Cake: Chocolate chip-studded Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with luscious raspberry frosting
    • Heartthrob Red Velvet: Red velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting finished with our exclusive blend from Fancy Sprinkles
    • I Love You Box: Four red velvet, four vanilla, and four raspberry chocolate chip cupcakes
    • XOXO Box: Three dark chocolate, three red velvet, three vanilla, and three raspberry chocolate chip cupcakes

Swirls on the Water (Available through Feb. 28) 

    • Rosa Regale DOLE Whip Float: Rosa Regale Sparkling Red Wine, DOLE Whip strawberry, and a chocolate covered strawberry
    • Valentine’s Day Red Velvet Cone: Chocolate soft-served swirled with DOLE Whip strawberry served in a red velvet cone and topped with a chocolate-covered shortbread cookie (New) 

Vivoli Il Gelato (Available through Feb. 28) 

    • The Love Potion: Float with vanilla gelato, Fanta Strawberry, and whipped cream

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park 

Tiffins Restaurant (Available Feb. 14 only) 

    • Chocolate Raspberry Martini and Flourless Cake Duo: Chocolate and raspberry martini served with a flourless chocolate cake, white chocolate cremeux, and raspberry pearls (New) (Gluten/ Wheat Friendly) 

EPCOT 

Connections Café (Available Feb. 14 only) 

    • Chocolate Liege Waffle (New) 

Le Cellier (Available Feb. 14 only)

    • Chateaubriand for Two: 16-oz Chateaubriand with crab mac & cheese, grilled
      jumbo asparagus, béarnaise sauce and au poivre sauce
    • Valentine’s Day Dessert: Valrhona dark chocolate mousse, strawberry cake, strawberry gelato, and raspberry meringue

Disney’s Hollywood Studios 

The Hollywood Brown Derby (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Red Velvet White Chocolate Mousse: Red velvet white chocolate mousse atop a chocolate cookie

The Trolley Car Café (Available Feb. 10 through 14)

    • Red Velvet Whoopie Pie: Red velvet cake filled with cream cheese buttercream topped with strawberry buttercream

Disneyland Resort 

Disneyland Park 

Red Rose Taverne (Available through Feb. 28; mobile order available) 

    • Love Stuff: Red shortbread cookie, red velvet cake, raspberry, cookies and cream mousse, and heart sprinkles

Stage Door Café (Available through Feb. 28; mobile order available)

    • Chocolate-Strawberry Funnel Cake: Funnel cake with chocolate drizzle, brownie crumbles, diced strawberries, and whipped topping (New) 

Outdoor Carts in Frontierland (Available through Feb. 28)

    • Strawberry Cheesecake Pretzel: Strawberry & Graham Cracker-dusted Cream Cheese Pretzel
    • Strawberry Dipping Sauce
    • Strawberry Cookies & Crème Churro: Strawberry and Butter Cookie-dusted Churro with Vanilla Buttercream Drizzle and Strawberry Cookie Topping

Disney California Adventure Park 

Clarabelle’s Hand-Scooped Ice Cream (Available Feb. 10 through 14; mobile order available) 

    • Sweetheart Sundae: Chocolate and strawberry ice cream topped with strawberry sauce, whipped cream, a chocolate-dipped strawberry, and valentine sprinkles served in a chocolate waffle cup (New)
    • Valentine’s Sprinkles (New) 

Lamplight Lounge and Lamplight Lounge – Boardwalk Dining (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • A Toast to Love Flight: Three miniature cocktails featuring a spicy cocktail, a bitter cocktail, and a sweet cocktail
    • The Flame: Bacardi Raspberry Rum, peach schnapps, mango purée, raspberry purée, lime juice, Sprite, and firewater bitters with a chile-lime rim
    • The Ex: Absolut Citron Vodka, spicy bitters, blackberries, lemonade, agave nectar, and lemon juice
    • The Love That Lasts a Lifetime: Bacardi Raspberry Rum, St. George, orgeat, raspberry purée, pineapple juice and Sprite

Trolley Treats (Available through Feb. 16)

  • Oswald Apple: Green Granny Smith apple dipped in chocolate and enrobed in
    dark chocolate with two long cereal treat ears dipped in dark chocolate and
    embellished with white and red chocolate.

Downtown Disney District 

Ballast Point Brewing Co. (Available Feb. 14 only) 

    • Tres Leches Rose Water Cake: Rose-milk-soaked shortcake topped with candied rose petal (New) 

Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes (Available Feb. 10 through 14) 

    • Red Velvet Cake Shake: A red velvet cake batter shake with vanilla frosted rim with red and white sprinkles topped with a slice of red velvet cake, whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and a cherry

California Churro (Available through Feb. 19) 

    • Chocolate-covered Strawberry Churro: Churro rolled in strawberry sugar, drizzled with chocolate

Catal Restaurant 

    • Valentine’s Day Pre-Fix Menu: Lobster Bisque followed by choice of Jumbo Scallops or Pork Belly Cassoulet as your main entrée and finished off with a sweet choice of Chocolate Mousse Cake or Cheesecake for dessert (New) (Available Feb. 14 only)
    • Scarlett Kiss: Raspberry rum, lemon juice, simple, lemonade, soda water, fresh berries, and a splash of raspberry purée (New) (Available through Feb. 28)

Kayla’s Cake (Available through Feb. 14) 

    • Valentine’s Day Gift Box: Six pre-selected macaron flavors of rose champagne, raspberry chocolate, strawberry cheesecake, red velvet, sea salt caramel, and Belgian dark chocolate

Naples Ristorante e Bar (Available Feb. 11 through 14) 

    • Two Enchanted Centuria Martini: Tequila blanco, chilled espresso, Irish cream, and vanilla syrup topped with an edible flower and served with a special Valentine’s tiramisu dessert to share (New) 

Tortilla Jo’s (Available Feb. 11 through 14)

    • Two Amor-ita Margaritas: Tequila, raspberry liqueur, organic margarita mix, and muddled raspberries served with a raspberry cheesecake to share (New) 

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen 

    • Reef & Beef: Grilled jumbo shrimp and braised short ribs with creamy grits, green tomato chow-chow, and chili garlic butter sauce (Available Feb. 14 only) 
    • Chocolate Strawberry Martini: Strawberry vodka and chocolate liqueur (Available Feb. 6 through 19)

Sprinkles (Available through Feb. 19) 

    • Raspberry Chocolate Chip Cupcake + Layer Cake: Chocolate chip-studded Belgian dark chocolate cake topped with luscious raspberry frosting
    • Heartthrob Red Velvet: Red velvet cake topped with cream cheese frosting finished with our exclusive blend from Fancy Sprinkles
    • I Love You Box: Four red velvet, four vanilla, and four raspberry chocolate chip cupcakes
    • XOXO Box: Three dark chocolate, three red velvet, three vanilla, and three raspberry chocolate chip cupcakes

Uva Bar & Cafe (Available through Feb. 28) 

    • Scarlett Kiss: Raspberry rum, lemon juice, simple, lemonade, soda water, fresh berries, and a splash of raspberry purée (New)

Wetzel’s Pretzels (Available through Feb. 28) 

    • Choco Churro Bitz and Frozen Horchata Bundle: Cin-A-Bitz drizzled with dulce de leche and Ghirardelli chocolate sauce paired with frozen horchata topped with cinnamon (New) 

Hotels of Disneyland Resort

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

GCH Craftsman Bar (Available through Feb. 26) 

    • California Crush Cocktail: Crown Royal Regal Apple Whiskey, strawberry purée, lemon, and agave served with a mint sprig and strawberry heart garnish
    • Tuxedo Strawberry Cocktail: Bacardi Raspberry Rum, dark crème de cacao, strawberry purée, and half & half served “up” in a chocolate-coated martini glass with strawberry garnish
    • Love’s Lantern Cocktail: Skyy Citrus Vodka, Chambord, and lime garnished with edible flowers and a glow cube

Craftsman Grill (Available through Feb. 21; mobile order available) 

    • Valentine’s Day Donuts
    • Valentine’s Day Cupcake

GCH Holiday Cart (Available through Feb. 26)

    • Heart-shaped Linzer Cookie
    • Mickey-shaped Valentine Cookie
    • Valentine Macarons
    • Assorted Cookie Box
    • Chocolate-dipped Strawberries
    • Valentine Crisped Rice Treat: Dark and white chocolate-dipped crisped rice treat
    • Waffle Shot available with choice of milk, low-fat milk, chocolate milk or strawberry

Hearthstone Lounge (Available Feb. 10 through 20) 

    • Sparkling Fire: Ketel One Vodka, St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur, Champagne, lemon juice, and raspberry gum syrup garnished with a raspberry and a dried rose petal (New) 

Disneyland Hotel 

Coffee House (Available Feb. 10 through 20; mobile order available) 

    • Sablé Heart Cookie with Raspberry Filling
    • Red Velvet Cupcake
    • Iced Raspberry Mocha
    • Raspberry Mocha

Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar (Available Feb. 10 through 20) 

    • Sablé Heart Cookie with Raspberry Filling
    • Red Velvet Cupcake

Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite (SOLD OUT)

If you’re attending one of the sold-out Disneyland After Dark: Sweethearts’ Nite events at Disneyland park, there are special flavors bringing the love too! Both you and your stomach will fall in love with treats like the Strawberry Crunch Cheesecake at Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe or the tasty Croque Monsieur Sandwich at Red Rose Taverne. As you make your way throughout the evening, stop by Hungry Bear Restaurant to try the Tres Leches Mini Funnel Cakes. For a sweet end to your evening, treat yourself to the Strawberry Shortcake Sundae available at Gibson Girl Ice Cream Parlor.

Guest Captures ‘Lion King’ Moment During Animal Kingdom’s Kilimanjaro Safaris

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks

Via DisDining.com

Walt Disney World Resort is home to four amazing theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and EPCOT.

Each Disney Park is known for something different, and no two will give Guests the same experience. Magic Kingdom is the classic and most popular Park, Hollywood Studios is home to some of Walt Disney World’s most thrilling adventures, and EPCOT is known for celebrating cultures worldwide.

As for Animal Kingdom, Walt Disney World doesn’t get any wilder. Between areas to explore such as Discovery Island, real animals along the Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, and attractions such as Avatar Flight of Passage and Expedition Everest Legend of the Forbidden Mountain, this theme park is one of Disney’s most diverse.

The environmentally conscious themes of conservation and informative attractions go hand in hand. But the attraction that really focuses Guests’ attention onto conservation is Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Kilimanjaro Safaris takes Guests on a safari ride around Animal Kingdom’s 110-acre space, which has been divided into environments mimicking African Savannas, wetlands, and forests. The Walt Disney Imagineers have done a fantastic job designing these biomes out of Florida’s diverse environment.

On this open-aired adventure, Guests can see real-life animals of the African Savanna, such as giraffes, zebras, elephants, and of course, lions.

Out of all 34 species that call this attraction their home, the lion may be the most exciting…if you’re lucky. Because the entertainment at this attraction is made up of live animals (not animatronics like in Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise attraction) all encounters will be different. Some will be more lively than others, and much of it depends on the time of day to visit.

One Guest recently visited during the evening and caught something straight out of Disney’s The Lion King (1994).

@ournextgreatadventure_

Those evening safaris really are the best! #animalkingdom #distok #disneyparks #disneyride #disneyrides #kilimanjarosafari

♬ original sound – Jimmy | Travel•Dad Life•Disney

In this video, the lion repeatedly vocalizes and growls as the safari vehicle rolls past, giving Guests a Kilimanjaro Show of a lifetime! Seeing as lions are nocturnal predators, they are most active during dusk or dawn, explaining why this lion was giving Guests a performance on the evening this video was taken.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Ride Replacement for TriceraTop Spin?

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks

Via DisDining.com

Out with the old, in with the new? We’ve seen changes at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park, such as the addition of the popular land, Pandora: World of Avatar, and the demolition of the Primeval Whirl roller coaster. Still, it looks like Walt Disney World Resort isn’t done perfecting its fourth theme park.

It’s no secret that of the seven lands in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, including The Oasis, Discovery Island, Pandora: The World of Avatar, Africa, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Asia, and DinoLand U.S.A., its DinoLand that stands out as the lackluster portion of the Park. And during a presentation at the 2022 D23 Expo, Disney was clear on its plans to give this portion of the Disney Park a much-needed update.

While Disney executives spoke of two possibilities for Disney’s Animal Kingdom’s next big expansion, including touches of animated Disney films, including Zootopia (2016) and Moana (2016), Moana is shining through as the possible star of the expansion.

So, when Disney releases concept art… we can’t help but take a closer look! Not only do we spot a log flume-style Moana attraction, similar to something like Splash Mountain, for DinoLand U.S.A.’s replacement, but we also see what may be a family-friendly spinning attraction that takes flight.

Sound familiar? Well, it should! Magic Kingdom Park has the nostalgic Dumbo The Flying Elephant and The Magic Carpets of Aladdin attractions. Additionally, in DinoLand U.S.A. Guests can enjoy TriceraTop Spin at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

We’ve taken many flights on TriceraTop Spin with the family, but it looks like Moana by be taking over in the most interesting way!

Disney's Animal Kingdom Expansion

As you’ll see in the up close of the concept art above, the attraction seems to copy the concept of TriceraTop Spin. It looks like Guests are seated in wooden barrels instead of triceratops dinosaurs. The art rendering even shows water jets squirting at the ride vehicles, much like the camels spitting water on The Magic Carpets of Aladdin ride at Magic Kingdom.

How does this look match the Moana theming? Not only do the flags in the area have the iconic Moana swirl imprint, but Disney executives may have leaked more about the experience.

Remember the fight scene in Moana when Moana and Maui, the demigod, must fight off the Kakamora? In the brief video clip below, look at how similar the above art rendering is to the Kakamora’s ship:

Additionally, when Disney executives spoke of the Moana addition, Guests could one day “help Moana save her people” and “fight off Kakamora” as Guests journey to meet “mysterious animals and creatures of the deep.” By the looks of the art rendering, this storytelling could easily be created with this new Disney’s Animal Kingdom attraction.

While the “Dino Ride in the Sky” currently offered with TriceraTop Spin in DinoLand U.S.A. is a sweet ride for young and old, it would be wonderful to see Disney’s storytelling shine through with Moana and the Kakamora when Disney’s Animal Kingdom expansion unfolds.

Now, we await a concrete timeline from Walt Disney Imagineering, in hopes details will be shared soon enough about what’s to come for Disney’s Animal Kingdom attractions such as TriceraTop Spin.

The NEW Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks

Via DisneyLists.com

The big blue world beckons once again as “Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” debuted this past summer at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. The freshly reimagined return of this popular stage show invites guests into the undersea setting that charmed audiences around the world in the Disney and Pixar smash-hit animated film, “Finding Nemo.”

1 – A Reimagined Retelling of Finding Nemo: The Musical

Fans of Disney and Pixar’s “Finding Nemo: The Musical,” which debuted at the theme park in 2007 and ran for more than 13 years, can breathe a sigh of relief as the show isn’t exactly new; it’s just a “reimagined retelling.” That means that the show still immerses audiences in the story of Marlin and Nemo – an overprotective clownfish father and his curious son – through a dazzling production that combines music, puppets, dancers, and animated backdrops.

As in the original production, Marlin and Nemo each go on a separate journey that ultimately teaches them how to love and understand each other better. Except in this adaptation of that beloved tale, the storytellers are a group of fish living at the Marine Life Institute. “This show incorporates many of the songs from the original musical, as well as amazing puppetry and live performers that fill the stage,” said show director James Silson, Disney Live Entertainment.

2 – Visually Inventive Storytelling

The 1,500-seat Theater in the Wild transports guests to an undersea world through innovative special effects, sound, and lighting. The theatrical puppetry of Michael Curry, who co-designed the richly detailed character puppets seen in the Broadway version of Disney’s “The Lion King.” Main characters such as Marlin, Nemo, and Dory are represented by live performers operating animated puppets. Some puppets are larger-than-life – such as Crush, the cool sea turtle nearly the size of a car.

Fans of the original show will see many familiar faces and some new ones. As always, the performers are outstanding, bringing enthusiasm and a whole lot of talent to their roles. Since the show has been on hiatus for over two years, I’m sure the performers are thrilled to be back on stage!

3 – New LED Video Wall is a Huge Upgrade

In addition to a new script, the show features new set pieces and a custom LED video wall that visually extends the physical sets on stage – including a 32-foot-long sunken submarine. “We’ve taken a new approach to the set for ‘Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!’,” said art director Matt Fiuza, Disney Live Entertainment. “We were inspired by 3D cut paper art and sculptures as we developed the scenic in the show. Our team had such an exciting time looking at our tank set through this brand-new lens of this watercolor sculpture aesthetic.”

The new video wall does add a lot to the overall look of the stage and visually adds a lot to the story. The colors are rich and vibrant. One negative, though, is that some set pieces from the original show have been removed, such as the scuba diver’s boat when Nemo is captured. In the original, it was an actual boat, and now the boat is just on the screen. Overall though, most guests may not remember the original show well enough and will likely be dazzled by the new screen. Be sure to look for some fun items on the screen, such as a Hidden Mickey, during the show!

4 – Shortened Show

The updated show clocks in at about twenty-five minutes. The original show ran just over forty minutes. Some scenes were cut, the story abbreviated, and some ariel stunts were also cut from the show. Even with the cuts, I felt the show flowed well, and we really didn’t miss anything. The story is much more streamlined, and sitting there for a twenty-five-minute show was much easier on the back and backside (the seats are still very uncomfortable) than sitting there for over forty. It will also be easier for younger children to enjoy the show. Forty minutes is a long time, and since you really need to get there at least thirty minutes before showtime, the shortened length is a bonus.  

5 – Showtimes & Disney Genie+

“Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” is performed multiple times daily at Theater in the Wild at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. Current showtimes include two morning shows and four in the afternoon. Performances are at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, 12:30 am, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 4:30 pm. Previously only five shows were offered during the day, so the shortened shows allow for an additional show. As always, be sure to check the My Disney Experience app for up-to-date showtimes.

“Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!” is also now included in Disney Genie+. Disney Genie+ is a paid upgrade that includes access to Lightning Lane (formerly the Fast Pass line) on select attractions, allowing guests to (theoretically) save time by skipping the standby line. Unless you are visiting during an especially busy time, such as Christmas week or Easter week, you won’t need to use one of your Genie+ selections for the show. There is usually plenty of seating for all guests.

Cast Members will open the standby queue for the show about thirty minutes before showtime and then let guests enter the theater about fifteen minutes before showtime. You’ll get a lovely 45-minute break from outdoor weather along with some fantastic entertainment!

Foodie Guide to Celebrate Soulfully Treats and Eats

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Disney Resorts, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom

Throughout the year, Disney Parks honor Black heritage and culture with Celebrate Soulfully, where our cast members bring their cultures to life in our parks through authentic food, music, and experiences.

During the month of February, Disneyland Resort and Walt Disney World Resort join together to honor and experience Black culture through cuisines, one bite and sip at a time – with many offerings inspired and created by our diverse Disney cast members. Both coasts bring these delicious flavors and traditions to the plate and glass for people of all ages and backgrounds to join in on the soulful celebration. No detail is too small when it comes to our Celebrate Soulfully cuisine!

At Disneyland Resort, enjoy new can’t-miss chef inspirations such as the Shrimp & Grits from Café Orleans and the Peach Cobbler Donut from Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe. Over on the East Coast, Walt Disney World Resort is bringing back popular dishes from last February’s Cooking With Soul feature and highlighting new food and beverage  creations infused with Walt Disney World cast stories and heritage carried by Black-owned distillers. This February, Guests can try dishes returning with a twist such as the Peach Cobbler Whiskey Cake at Tiffins Restaurant or brand-new Soulful Sunday Dinners at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. While visiting, Guests can keep an eye out for other soulful offerings across property to continue celebrating soulfully throughout the year.

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland Park

Cafe Orleans (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Shrimp & Grits: Andouille-fava relish, cheesy grits, and shrimp sauce (New)

Jolly Holiday Bakery Cafe (Available Feb. 1 through 28; mobile order available)

  • Peach Cobbler Donut: Vanilla-dipped donut filled with peach compote, topped with a cinnamon sugar puff (New)

River Belle Terrace (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Southern BBQ Platter: Brisket, fried chicken, burnt ends pork belly, mashed potatoes, baked beans, slaw, and a house-baked biscuit (New)

Troubadour Tavern

  • Fried Chicken Bowl: Spicy honey-glazed fried chicken served with four-cheese mac ‘n cheese, smoked turkey collard greens, and sweet potato cornbread (Available Feb.18 and Feb. 25 only; mobile order available) (New)
  • Red Velvet Bundt Cake with chocolate mousse, cream cheese frosting, and chocolate chips (Available Feb.18 and Feb. 25 only; mobile order available) (New)

Fantasyland Popcorn Cart and Troubadour Tavern  

  • Simba Popcorn Bucket (mobile order available)

Hotels of the Disneyland Resort

Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa

Hearthstone Lounge (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Baked Andouille Mac & Cheese: Pasta with white cheese sauce, chopped herbs and Andouille sausage (New)
  • Apricot Manhattan: Uncle Nearest 1884 Whiskey, Giffards Abricot du Roussillon, and Amaro Nonino garnished with maraschino cherries (New)
  • Spiced Fizz: Hanson of Sonoma Habanero Vodka, ginger beer, lime juice and raspberry syrup garnished with raspberries and a Lime wedge (New)

Downtown Disney District

College Boy Cheesesteaks (Available Feb. 9 – Mar. 5)

  • Black-owned food truck College Boy Cheesesteaks will serve up Philly Cheesesteaks from local Philadelphians

Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen

  • Peach Pie Old Fashioned: Whiskey, peach liquor, bitters, and brown sugar garnished with a peach slice

Wings ’N Waffles (Available Feb. 9 – Mar. 5)

  • Black-owned food truck Wings ‘n Waffles will serve up delicious sandwiches, plates, and more

Walt Disney World Resort

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

ABC Commissary (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Gumbo: Chicken, Andouille sausage, okra, and seasonings simmered in chicken stock served over rice (New)

Dockside Diner (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • South African Hot Dog: South African boerie topped with sweet and spicy chakalaka relish on a brioche bun served with house-made chips (New)

Hollywood Scoops (Available Feb. 1 through Mar. 31)

  • Tiana Mardi Gras Milkshake: Cinnamon vanilla milkshake topped with a Mardi Gras king cake doughnut (New)

Hollywood & Vine

  • Poulet Mariné Au Four (Baked Marinated Chicken): Baked chicken marinated in assorted spices served with red and green peppers and onions. This dish was created by our cast members at Disney’s Hollywood Studios to celebrate Haitian Flag Day and is now featured on the Hollywood & Vine buffet for guests to enjoy!

Woody’s Lunch Box (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Sweet Potato Lunch Box Tart with cinnamon-brown sugar icing, toasted marshmallows, and pecans (New)

50’s Prime Time Cafe

  • Shrimp & Grits: Creole-seasoned shrimp with peppers and onions served over cheese grits

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Flame Tree Barbecue (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Creole Smoked Sausage Sandwich: Smoked Andouille sausage on a roll with piccadilly relish and stewed black-eyed peas (New)
  • Soul Cupcake: Vanilla cake with bananas foster filling, vanilla marshmallow buttercream, Joe Gardner white chocolate medallion, edible paper music notes, and multi color crispy pearls

Nomad Lounge (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • The Ginger Whiskey: A cocktail featuring Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey with notes of ginger and brown sugar (New)

Pizzafari and Restaurantosaurus (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Soul Cupcake: Vanilla cake with bananas foster filling, vanilla marshmallow buttercream, Joe Gardner white chocolate medallion, edible paper music notes, and multi color crispy pearls

Tiffins Restaurant

  • Spiced Shrimp & Grits: Spicy shrimp & corn grits with bacon jam and crispy radish
  • Peach Cobbler Whiskey Cake: Peach cobbler cake, honey vanilla bean ice cream, and brown butter whiskey caramel (Available Feb. 1 through 28)
  • The Ginger Whiskey: A cocktail featuring Uncle Nearest 1856 Whiskey with notes of ginger and brown sugar (New) (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

Tusker House

  • Braised Collard Greens with smoked bacon (Available Feb. 1 through 28)
  • Jollof Rice with Plant-based Sausage
  • Harira Soup

Dawa Bar, Restarauntosaurus Lounge, and Thirsty River Bar (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Mint Julep: Pineapple mint julep

EPCOT

Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue

  • Tiana Banana Pudding

Coral Reef Restaurant

  • Shrimp & Grits: Sautéed shrimp, cheddar grits, local corn succotash, andouille sausage, and Creole spice emulsion

Fife & Drum

  • Half Note Float: Layered Fanta Wild Cherry, Minute Maid Lemonade, and Fanta Blue Raspberry Slushy with vanilla ice cream and Half Note White Chocolate

Magic Kingdom Park  

Cinderella’s Royal Table

  • Select wines from McBride Sisters Wine Company (a Black-owned and female-led wine company), including:
    • McBride Sisters Sparkling Brut Rosé, Hawke’s Bay                
    • McBride Sisters Sauvignon Blanc, Marlborough
    • McBride Sisters Chardonnay, Central Coast 

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen 

  • Kungaloosh! African-inspired chocolate cake with caramelized bananas and cashew-caramel ice cream topped with coffee dust
  • Golden Haze Margarita: Teremana Blanco Tequila, Grand Marnier Liqueur, Hella Cocktail Co. Smoked Chili Bitters, lime, and agave.

Disney Springs

Amorette’s Patisserie (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Soul Petit Cake: Chocolate chiffon cake, dark chocolate mousse, raspberry pate de fruit, raspberry mousse, and white chocolate crispy pearls 

B.B. Wolf’s Sausage Co. (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Chicken Jambalaya Dog: Chicken jambalaya dog with smoked sausage, roasted corn, lemon caper aïoli, and Tuscan roll (New)

Dockside Margaritas and Outdoor Bars (available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Royal Sunset: Empress 1908 Gin, grapefruit juice, cane sugar, and cherries 

House of Blues (available Feb. 1 through Mar. 1)

  • Celebrate Soulfully Specials: Featuring two beers (pilsner and IPA) from Green Bench Brewing, Florida’s only Black-owned brewery and chardonnay from Brown Estates, Napa Valley’s first Black-owned estate winery

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Chicken on the Egg: Buttermilk fried chicken, deviled eggs, and hot honey sauce
  • Fried Sweet Potato Pie: Sweet potato-filled pastry, spiced cinnamon sugar, maple bourbon sauce, and roasted pecan crumble

Poutine (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Jamaican Jerk Chicken Poutine with sweet ‘n’ hot jerk marinated chicken, pineapple salsa, scotch bonnet aïoli, and fries (New)

The Ganachery (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Soulful Pralines: Pecan pralines enrobed in our custom dark chocolate “jazzed” up with some chocolate musical instruments and decor featuring Joe from Disney and Pixar’s animated film Soul

Local Green Orlando Food Truck

  • Delicious vegan, vegetarian, and pescatarian menu items made with love and soul including the Monsta Shrimp Burger, Rappers Delight Salmon Philly, and more
  • For a limited time during the month of February, visit the Local Green Orlando Food Truck near the entrance to Orange Garage 

The Polite Pig (available Jan. 31 through Feb. 28)

  • The Soulfully Chef Special: Fried pork belly, beef empanadas, and pikliz

Vivoli Il Gelato (available Jan. 16 through Feb. 28)

  • Candied Yam Cannoli: A crispy Italian shell filled with a sweet cream of ricotta cheese and candied yams topped with pecans
  • Carver’s Peanut Butter Explosion: Peanut butter milkshake with a chocolate drizzle, whipped cream, and a chocolate peanut butter cake on top

Walt Disney World Resorts

Available at Various Resorts (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Southern Fried Chicken Bowl: Fried chicken thighs, candied sweet potatoes, rice, smoked collards, mac and cheese, and a corn muffin(New) Available at the following:
    • World Premiere Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
    • Intermission Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
    • End Zone Food Court at Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
    • Landscape of Flavors at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
    • Centertown Market at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
    • Everything POP at Disney’s Pop Century Resort
    • Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
    • Riverside Mill Food Court at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort, Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort

World Premiere Food Court, Intermission Food Court, and End Zone Food Court (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Banana Pudding Cheesecake: Banana cheesecake with vanilla pudding, vanilla wafer crust, and a brûléed banana (New)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Sanaa (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Sanaa Spiced Shrimp: Benne seed-spiced shrimp, creamy pap, stewed okra, boerewors, and charred corn kachumbari (New)

Disney’s Contemporary Resort 

Contempo Café (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese: Four cheese baked macaroni and cheese (New) 

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort}

Barcelona Lounge (Available Feb. 1 through 28) 

  • Whiskey Tart: Orange-cardamom infused cake, dark chocolate mousse, and diplomat cream infused with Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Premium Whiskey with a candied orange garnish (New) 

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Comeback Chocolate Cake: Slice of German-style chocolate cake with a salty pecan-coconut topping (New)

Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge (Available beginning Feb. 1)

  • Berry Beignet: Mickey-shaped beignet with fresh mixed berry compote, house-made Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Premium Whiskey caramel sauce, mint, and powdered sugar (New)

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Riverside Mill Food Court (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Comeback Chocolate Cake: Slice of German-style chocolate cake with a salty pecan-coconut topping (New)

Various Signature Restaurants and Lounges Across Resorts Including:

Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera, Cítricos, Jiko-The Cooking Place, and Yachtsman Steakhouse (Available Feb. 1 through Mar. 30)

  • Golden Cocktail: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Premium Whiskey, pineapple juice, almond, agave, and aromatic bitters (New)

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa  

The Artist’s Palette (Available Feb. 1 through 28)

  • Soulful Sunday Dinner: A traditional soul food dinner of barbeque chicken with collard greens, black eye peas, and house-made cornbread (available Sundays in Feb.) (New)
  • Traditional Pound Cake: A slice of classic vanilla pound cake (New)

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts

The Market at Ale & Compass and Beach Club Marketplace (Available Feb. 1 through Mar. 30)

  • Tiana Praline Cupcake: Vanilla cupcake filled with pecan praline filling, vanilla buttercream, and chocolate décor (New)

Various Pool Bars and Table Service Locations Across Resorts Including Geyser Point, Banana Cabana, Scat Cat’s Club – Lounge, Boatwright’s Dining Hall, Olivia’s Café, Turf Club Bar & Lounge, Outer Rim, Hurricane Hanna’s, Boma – Flavors of Africa, Oasis Pool Bar, and many more! (Available Feb 1. through Mar. 30)

  • Pineapple Mule: Uncle Nearest 1884 Small Batch Premium Whiskey, Hella Cocktail Co. ginger bitters, pineapple juice, ginger beer, and mint

(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)