Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: A Regal Culinary Journey

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

Nestled within the enchanting landscape of the Norway pavilion at Epcot’s World Showcase in Walt Disney World Resort, the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is a dining destination that offers guests an opportunity to dine like royalty while immersing themselves in the rich culture of Scandinavia.

Stepping into the grand entrance of the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall feels like entering a storybook castle, where fairy tales come to life and dreams are realized. The regal ambiance, complete with ornate chandeliers, majestic tapestries, and intricate woodwork, sets the stage for a culinary journey fit for kings and queens.

While the setting is undeniably impressive, the true star of the experience is the exquisite cuisine. The banquet hall serves as a buffet-style restaurant for breakfast, and for lunch and dinner, it transforms into a character dining experience where Disney princesses grace each table. This unique feature allows guests to meet beloved princesses while savoring the flavors of Nordic cuisine.

Breakfast at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall offers a hearty start to the day with an assortment of classic American breakfast items and traditional Norwegian dishes. Guests can feast on scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, and pastries, while also enjoying Scandinavian specialties like cured meats, cheeses, and pickled fish.

Lunch and dinner, on the other hand, invite diners to indulge in a grand feast with a touch of Norwegian authenticity. A bountiful buffet spread includes cold selections like smoked seafood, cheeses, salads, and fruits, as well as hot dishes such as traditional meatballs, roasted chicken, and fish. These delectable offerings allow guests to explore the diverse flavors of Norway’s culinary heritage.

As guests relish the flavorful cuisine, they are joined by a rotating cast of Disney princesses, creating an enchanting and interactive experience for both children and adults alike. The opportunity to interact, take photos, and receive autographs from iconic princesses such as Belle, Snow White, Cinderella, and Ariel adds a touch of magic to the dining affair.

Beyond the culinary delights and character encounters, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall offers a unique window into the storied history of Norway. The decor pays homage to the country’s architectural and cultural heritage, creating an immersive atmosphere that transports diners to a distant world of folktales and Viking legends.

In the heart of Epcot’s World Showcase, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall stands as a tribute to both the joy of great food and the enchantment of cherished Disney tales. It seamlessly weaves together cultural immersion, culinary excellence, and beloved characters, making it an essential stop for anyone seeking a truly royal experience in the heart of Orlando.

Hawaii Opening at EPCOT’s World Showcase

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

The World Showcase is one of the most lauded areas of Walt Disney World Resort. Many Guests who visit are curious to see not only the different food, cultures, and architecture represented but also compare it to their experience of visiting the actual places.

A special addition has just been welcomed – Hawaii.

Aulani

The Hawaii booth opened up earlier this week at the front of the World Showcase Plaza, not far from the Mexico pavilion. As part of EPCOT’s International Food and Wine Festival, the booth has returned for another year, introducing Park Guests to the great flavors of the Aloha state.

EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival

The menu provides three unique Hawaiian dishes:

Kalua Pork Slider with Sweet-and-Sour DOLE Pineapple Chutney and spicy mayonnaise.

SPAM Musubi Nigiri with sushi rice, Teriyaki-glazed SPAM, spicy mayonnaise, eel sauce, and nor.

And a Passion Fruit Cheesecake with toasted macadamia nuts for dessert.

Hawaii Booth EPCOT Food and Wine Festival

The booth also offers beverages, including the Aulani Sunrise drink (vodka, pineapple juice, and grenadine), Sparkling pineapple wine, and a Kona brewing company IPA.

Many Disney fans who have tried the Hawaiian dishes (either in the past or currently) have had mostly positive things to say about the food and flavor. It would be excellent for Hawaii to have more of a permanent position at the World Showcase with its own ride, sit-down dining restaurant, or show and official pavilion (despite not being its own country). However, in the meantime, we must make due with the little booth and the SPAM and Dole tidings they bring every year.

Beacons of light show at EPCOT

The booth is scheduled to be open until the end of the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, which runs through November 18, 2023. So if you’re planning any trips to Walt Disney World Resort later this year, be sure and stop by! There’s no guarantee it will be coming back in 2024.

Indulging in Culinary Delights at La Hacienda De San Angel

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

Nestled within Epcot’s Mexico Pavilion in Walt Disney World, La Hacienda De San Angel is a culinary gem that transports guests on a delectable journey through the flavors of Mexico. With its stunning views of the World Showcase Lagoon and its authentic Mexican cuisine, this restaurant offers a dining experience that’s as enchanting as it is flavorful.

The restaurant’s ambiance is a seamless fusion of traditional Mexican architecture and modern elegance. As you step into La Hacienda De San Angel, you’re greeted by warm earthy tones, rustic wooden beams, and intricate tilework that evoke the charm of a Mexican hacienda. The spacious dining room is designed to provide a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, whether you’re enjoying an intimate dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends and family.

One of the highlights of dining at La Hacienda De San Angel is its prime location along the shores of the World Showcase Lagoon. The restaurant’s large windows offer panoramic views of the lagoon, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a meal while watching the sun set over the water or to catch a glimpse of the nightly fireworks spectacular, which paints the sky with vibrant colors and mesmerizing lights.

The menu at La Hacienda De San Angel is a celebration of the diverse and rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. From traditional favorites to contemporary twists, every dish is crafted with care and creativity. Start your meal with appetizers like the Queso Fundido, a melted cheese dish with chorizo, or the Tlacoyos, filled masa cakes topped with beans, cactus, and queso fresco.

For the main course, the selection is equally enticing. Signature dishes like the Carne Asada Tampiqueña, a succulent grilled beef tenderloin served with cheese enchilada and poblano rajas, showcase the restaurant’s commitment to delivering an authentic and memorable dining experience. Seafood lovers can savor the delights of the Pescado a la Talla, a grilled catch of the day marinated with achiote and served with roasted poblano potatoes.

Of course, no Mexican meal is complete without dessert, and La Hacienda De San Angel doesn’t disappoint in that department. From the rich and velvety Chocolate Tamal to the refreshing Lime Crema, each dessert is a delightful conclusion to your culinary journey.

Pair your meal with a selection from the extensive drink menu, which includes a variety of tequilas, margaritas, and other cocktails inspired by the flavors of Mexico. Whether you’re a tequila connoisseur or simply looking to enjoy a refreshing beverage, the drink offerings complement the dining experience perfectly.

La Hacienda De San Angel invites guests to savor the artistry and passion that goes into creating authentic Mexican cuisine. With its captivating ambiance, breathtaking views, and a menu that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexico, this restaurant is a must-visit for anyone seeking a truly memorable dining experience in the heart of Epcot’s World Showcase.

Savoring Authentic Flavors at La Cantina de San Angel

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks, Epcot

Nestled along the picturesque waterfront of the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase at Walt Disney World, La Cantina de San Angel offers a tantalizing journey for the taste buds, blending traditional Mexican cuisine with the magic of Disney.

This charming open-air eatery transports visitors straight to the streets of Mexico, capturing the essence of a bustling market square while providing a perfect view of the World Showcase Lagoon. With its vibrant décor, vibrant music, and savory aromas wafting through the air, La Cantina de San Angel creates an immersive dining experience that’s as delightful as it is delicious.

The menu at La Cantina de San Angel showcases the rich tapestry of Mexican culinary traditions, featuring a diverse array of dishes that cater to various palates. From classic street foods to more elaborate options, every choice promises an authentic taste of Mexico. The mouthwatering tacos, stuffed with fillings like grilled chicken, slow-cooked pork, and roasted vegetables, are crowd favorites that capture the essence of Mexican street cuisine.

For those seeking a heartier meal, the Mexican “Parrillada” serves up a delectable mix of grilled meats, sausages, and vegetables. Paired with freshly made tortillas and an assortment of salsas, it’s a satisfying option that reflects the communal spirit of Mexican dining.

One of the true standouts at La Cantina de San Angel is the “Churro Bites,” a sweet treat that’s hard to resist. These bite-sized churros are dusted with cinnamon-sugar and served with a side of rich chocolate dipping sauce, making for a delightful dessert that captures the essence of Mexico’s culinary charm.

As day turns to night, the ambiance at La Cantina de San Angel transforms. The outdoor seating area provides an unobstructed view of the nighttime spectacular, “Epcot Forever,” a mesmerizing fireworks and light show that illuminates the skies above the World Showcase Lagoon. This unique vantage point allows guests to indulge in a sumptuous meal while being treated to a dazzling display of Disney magic.

Whether you’re a culinary explorer or simply seeking a flavorsome meal with a view, La Cantina de San Angel offers an experience that’s both culturally immersive and palate-pleasing. With its enchanting atmosphere, authentic Mexican dishes, and prime location, it’s a must-visit for those looking to savor the magic of Mexico right in the heart of Walt Disney World.

New Menu Items Coming to Contempo Cafe at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Resorts

When most people think of dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, they think of Chef Mickey’s. However, the resort’s quick-service restaurant, Contempo Cafe, is a great option for guests looking for a delicious meal. Now there are more reasons to head on over to Contempo Cafe with new menu items coming soon.

From a Disney Cast Member;

If you aren’t already hungry, you’re about to be. Over at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the culinary teams have been hard at work creating some tasty treats and eats for Contempo Café that will blow you away. Starting tomorrow, August 16, these new satisfying selections will be available for your tasting pleasure. From sweet to savory and everything in between, you’ll want to try these dishes. And they’re all on mobile order too!

Let’s get to them – what do you say?

Do you want a yummy breakfast option? You’re in luck because Contempo Café will have two new items for savory and sweet fans alike. Start your day on the right foot, or taste rather, with the new Breakfast Flatbread or go for a sweeter beginning with the Minnie Cinnamon Roll dipped in white chocolate.

Before we get to the desserts, which are sure to make your mouth water, there are some new and enhanced savory items joining this tasty lineup. As lunch and dinner roll around, try the returning, updated classic Four-Cheese Grilled Cheese & Tomato-Basil Soup or opt for the new Spicy Chicken Sandwich – a crispy chicken breast topped with pepper jack, chipotle rémoulade, arugula, seasoned tomato, and dill pickle chips served on a brioche bun. In addition to these handhelds, starting at 4 p.m. each day, you’ll be able to sink your teeth into the can’t-miss Signature Rice Bowls. The bowls are a perfect combination of cilantro-lime rice, black beans, street corn, avocado, pico de gallo, carrot, and pickled red onion. Then they are topped with a protein of your choice – grilled shrimp, braised beef, grilled chicken, or plant-based crispy tofu.

Now the moment the sweet tooth foodies have been waiting for – dessert! The pastry chefs have brought their A-game with six – yes, six – new decadent bites. The Monorail S’more Brownie is a nod to the monorail that wizzes by overhead while you dine at Contempo Café. It’s a fudgy brownie with a graham cracker crust topped with marshmallow crème and chocolate décor. Yes, yes, and yes.

For a fruity flavor, the 5-Legged Goat Fruit Tart draws inspiration from the iconic Mary Blair Grand Canyon Concourse mural’s 5-Legged Goat. This bite features a vanilla tart shell filled with raspberry-lemon curd topped with fresh fruit and lemon whipped cream. How delicious!

The chocolate keeps on coming with the Jack-Jack Cookie Num Nums Cupcake. This chocolate cupcake topped with chocolate chip cookie dough mousse is inspired by The Incredibles and their presence throughout Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The new Chocolate Peanut Butter Bar is also sure to satisfy chocolate fans and is plant-based as well as gluten and wheat friendly!

If cookies are your treat of choice, the new Signature Deluxe Cookies are the move. These three cookies include a Chocolate Chunk Cookie with peanut butter buttercream, a Churro Cookie with cinnamon buttercream, and Kitchen Sink Cookie, a chocolate chip cookie with salted caramel, Mickey chocolate chips, peanut butter chips, butterscotch, and walnuts. While these three will all be available year-round, there will also be a seasonal sugar cookie that will rotate throughout the year too.

Last but certainly not least, get the perfect taste of summer in cookie form with the Strawberry Lemonade Sugar Cookie. This delight, available August 16 through September 30, is topped with strawberry buttercream and patriotic sprinkles.

What flavorful bites are on the way! This location is sure to impress with these new additions. There’s no limit to the tasty adventures to be had at Disney Parks!

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