Pacific Wharf in Disney California Adventure Park will be reimagined into San Fransokyo Square inspired by “Big Hero 6,” and this transformation will be completed on August 31, 2023!
We recently shared more information about San Fransokyo Square in Disney California Adventure Park, which includes details about merchandise locations, as well as reimagined food and beverage locations.
Here’s a list of what’s coming next:
July 19: New San Fransokyo selections available at Lucky Fortune Cookery (Mobile order available)
July 26: New San Fransokyo selections available at Cocina Cucamonga Mexican Grill (Mobile order available)
July 26: Rita’s Baja Blenders will be reimagined to Rita’s Turbine Blenders (Mobile order available)
COMING SOON: Port of San Fransokyo Cervecería will open (Mobile order available)
August 31: Pacific Wharf Café will be reimagined to Aunt Cass Café (Mobile order available), Guests will be able to meet Hiro and Baymax, San Fransokyo Maker’s Mart will open
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies is an otherworldly ice cream parlor that takes customers on a cosmic taste sensation. Located in the heart of a bustling intergalactic hub, this celestial dessert haven offers a unique blend of flavors, a whimsical atmosphere, and an unforgettable experience for ice cream enthusiasts of all ages.
Step into Auntie Gravity’s, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a universe of tantalizing flavors that transcend the boundaries of ordinary ice cream parlors. From the zesty comet lemon swirl to the indulgent black hole fudge, each flavor is carefully crafted using rare ingredients sourced from across the cosmos. Ever wondered what moon dust tastes like? Auntie Gravity’s can give you a sneak peek with their signature lunar vanilla blend. Their ice cream scientists constantly experiment, pushing the boundaries of flavor, resulting in unforgettable and truly out-of-this-world taste experiences.
Beyond the incredible flavors, Auntie Gravity’s boasts a whimsical cosmic ambiance that transports visitors to another galaxy. The parlor is adorned with twinkling star lights, celestial murals, and space-themed decorations. Patrons can sit in custom-made rocket-shaped chairs or enjoy their treats under a glowing galaxy canopy. The staff, dressed in futuristic uniforms, adds to the overall charm and intergalactic experience. Every visit to Auntie Gravity’s is a journey through space and time, allowing customers to escape reality and indulge in a truly immersive dessert adventure.
At Auntie Gravity’s, it’s not just about the ice cream; it’s about creating memories that will last a lifetime. From the moment customers walk in, they are greeted with warm smiles and enthusiastic service. The staff is knowledgeable about the flavors, always ready to offer recommendations and cater to dietary preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned space traveler or a first-time visitor, Auntie Gravity’s ensures that every scoop is accompanied by stellar service and a memorable experience.
Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies is more than an ice cream parlor—it’s a portal to a whimsical world of celestial flavors and cosmic wonders. With its multidimensional taste experiences, immersive ambiance, and exceptional service, this extraterrestrial ice cream adventure is a must-visit for anyone seeking a sweet escape from the ordinary. So, grab a rocket spoon and blast off into the galactic goodness of Auntie Gravity’s!
The Walt Disney Company has announced the decision to extend CEO Bob Iger’s contract through December 31, 2026, meaning the so-called “boomerang CEO” hangs on.
Veteran Walt Disney Company employee and former Disney CEO Bob Iger retired on December 31, 2021, only to be reinstated less than 11 months later, following the removal of then-CEO Bob Chapek in November 2022. At the time of his reinstatement as CEO, Iger’s new contract was set to expire on December 31, 2023.
Since November, Iger has been tasked with righting the financial ship at the Disney Company, though another part of his responsibilities centered around assisting in the search for his successor and in mentoring that candidate before his departure. But recently, speculation about Disney keeping Iger on just a bit longer gave way to rumors about an announcement from Disney about Iger’s upcoming contract extension. (But then again, DisneyDining predicted such a move in April 2023.)
On Wednesday afternoon, Disney’s board announced that Iger’s contract has indeed been extended through December 31, 2026, adding an additional 24 months to the veteran CEO’s original plans to return to Disney in his former role. Disney’s formal announcement reads as follows:
The Walt Disney Company Board of Directors announced today that Robert A. Iger has agreed to continue to serve as Chief Executive Officer through December 31, 2026. In voting unanimously to extend Iger’s contract by two years, the independent members of the Board of Directors noted that Iger’s extension provides continuity of leadership during the company’s ongoing transformation and allows more time to execute a transition plan for CEO succession, which remains a priority for the Board.
“Time and again, Bob has shown an unparalleled ability to successfully transform Disney to drive future growth and financial returns, earning him a reputation as one of the world’s best CEOs,” said Mark G. Parker, Chairman, The Walt Disney Company. “Bob has once again set Disney on the right strategic path for ongoing value creation, and to ensure the successful completion of this transformation while also allowing ample time to position a new CEO for long-term success, the Board determined it is in the best interest of shareholders to extend his tenure, and he has agreed to our request to remain Chief Executive Officer through the end of 2026.”
Since my return to Disney just seven months ago, I’ve examined virtually every facet of our businesses to fully understand the tremendous opportunities before us, as well as the challenges we’ve been facing from the broader economic environment and the tectonic shifts in our industry. On my first day back, we began making important and sometimes difficult decisions to address some existing structural and efficiency issues, and despite the challenges, I believe Disney’s long-term future is incredibly bright,” said Iger. “But there is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete, and because I want to ensure Disney is strongly positioned when my successor takes the helm, I have agreed to the Board’s request to remain CEO for an additional two years. The importance of the succession process cannot be overstated, and as the Board continues to evaluate a highly qualified slate of internal and external candidates, I remain intensely focused on a successful transition.”
Iger returned to the company in November of 2022 after serving as CEO and Chairman from 2005 to 2020, and then as Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board through 2021. Since returning as CEO, he has led a significant, enterprise-wide transformation to restore creativity to the center of the company and position Disney’s streaming business for sustained growth and profitability. Throughout his time as the company’s chief executive, Iger’s strategic vision has focused on three fundamental pillars: generating the best creative content possible, fostering innovation and utilizing the latest technology, and expanding into new markets across the globe.
Widely recognized as one of the world’s most consequential business leaders, Iger has built on Disney’s rich history of unforgettable storytelling with the acquisitions of Pixar (2006), Marvel (2009), Lucasfilm (2012), and 21st Century Fox (2019); the landmark opening of Disney’s first theme park and resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disney Resort; and the release of a number of record-setting films, including Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame, Disney’s Frozen and Frozen 2, and Marvel’s groundbreaking Black Panther. Always one to embrace new technology, Iger made Disney an industry leader through its creative content offerings across multiple new platforms, including the highly successful launch of the Disney+ streaming service in November 2019.
Since my return to Disney just seven months ago, I’ve examined virtually every facet of our businesses to fully understand the tremendous opportunities before us, as well as the challenges we’ve been facing from the broader economic environment and the tectonic shifts in our industry. On my first day back, we began making important and sometimes difficult decisions to address some existing structural and efficiency issues, and despite the challenges, I believe Disney’s long-term future is incredibly bright,” said Iger. “But there is more to accomplish before this transformative work is complete, and because I want to ensure Disney is strongly positioned when my successor takes the helm, I have agreed to the Board’s request to remain CEO for an additional two years. The importance of the succession process cannot be overstated, and as the Board continues to evaluate a highly qualified slate of internal and external candidates, I remain intensely focused on a successful transition.”
Iger returned to the company in November of 2022 after serving as CEO and Chairman from 2005 to 2020, and then as Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board through 2021. Since returning as CEO, he has led a significant, enterprise-wide transformation to restore creativity to the center of the company and position Disney’s streaming business for sustained growth and profitability. Throughout his time as the company’s chief executive, Iger’s strategic vision has focused on three fundamental pillars: generating the best creative content possible, fostering innovation and utilizing the latest technology, and expanding into new markets across the globe.
Widely recognized as one of the world’s most consequential business leaders, Iger has built on Disney’s rich history of unforgettable storytelling with the acquisitions of Pixar (2006), Marvel (2009), Lucasfilm (2012), and 21st Century Fox (2019); the landmark opening of Disney’s first theme park and resort in mainland China, Shanghai Disney Resort; and the release of a number of record-setting films, including Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame, Disney’s Frozen and Frozen 2, and Marvel’s groundbreaking Black Panther. Always one to embrace new technology, Iger made Disney an industry leader through its creative content offerings across multiple new platforms, including the highly successful launch of the Disney+ streaming service in November 2019.
The most wonderful time of the year is almost here! No, we’re not talking about the holidays. We’re talking about the EPCOT Food and Wine Festival. This year’s menus have been released, and we’re so excited to have some of our old favorites and also some new items to try.
From a Disney Cast Member;
The time of year all foodies have been waiting for is just a few weeks away. And you know what it is – the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE! This celebration kicks off on July 27 and runs through November 18, 2023, and is filled with thrilling and delicious offerings celebrating the various cultures and cuisines across the globe.
With nearly 30 – yes, you heard that right – Global Marketplaces this year, your taste buds will go on a journey with flavors, ingredients and signature delights from various countries around the world. This year, the Festival not only welcomes new dishes, like the Dark Chocolate Fondue from The Alps and the Chilaquiles from Flavors of America, but also four brand-new Global Marketplaces – Char & Chop, Wine & Wedge, Bubbles & Brine and Swirled Showcase! Also, experiment with delicious flavors at Brew-Wing Labat the Odyssey where guests will embark on a flavorful adventure, featuring the culinary creations – and madcap mishaps – of Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant, Beaker, from Muppet Labs!
As you taste your way throughout the Festival, you’ll want to take part in a returning fan-favorite, Emile’s Fromage Montage. This delicious food stroll features several cheesy goodies from the Global Marketplaces. Simply pick up a Festival Passport and collect stamps by purchasing five of these items. Once you’ve gotten them all, head over to Shimmering Sips for a special redemption prize.
But that’s not all! As the sun goes down, the tunes come out with the Eat to the Beat Concert Series presented by Florida Blue Medicare featuring nightly performances from local and renowned musical acts. Check out the full line-up here.
Are you ready for the full menus for this year? I know I am. Let me present to you the 2023 Foodie Guide for the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE!
Bon appétit.
India
Food Items:
Curry-spiced Crispy Cheese with mango-curry ketchup (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
Potato and Pea Samosa with coriander-lime cream (Plant-based)
Chicken Tikka Masala with fennel-spiced yogurt and naan bread
Beverages:
Mango Lassi (Non-alcoholic)
Taj Mahal Premium Lager
SULA Brut Tropicale Sparkling Wine
SULA Chenin Blanc
Mango Lassi with Sōmrus Chai Cream Liqueur
CORKCICLE Stemless Flute
Refreshment Outpost
Food Item:
Spicy Githeri with white beans, pigeon peas, curried BEN’S ORIGINAL Long Grain & Wild Rice, and kachumbari slaw (Plant-based)
Southern Pimento Cheese with bread-and-butter pickled vegetables and grilled bread (New) (Emile’s Fromage Montage)
Artist Palette of Wine and Cheese: Assorted Artisanal Cheeses and Accoutrements paired with Selbach-Oster Zeltinger Sonnenuhr Riesling Spätlese, Hartley Apple Brandy, and Florida Orange Groves Winery Black and Blue Port (New)
Florida Orange Groves Winery Black and Blue Port (New)
Flight
NEW! Bubbles & Brine (Opening Later This Fall)
Food Items:
Jumbo Shrimp Cocktail with prosecco cocktail sauce and grilled lemon (New)
Jonah Crab Claw Cocktail with stone-ground mustard sauce (New)
Caviar with traditional accompaniments, champagne cream, and blini (New)
Beverages:
Moët & Chandon Impérial
Veuve Clicquot Rosé
Dom Pérignon
NEW! Swirled Showcase (Opening Later This Fall)
Food Items:
Mickey-shaped Liquid Nitro Cake
Soft-serve in a Waffle Cone
Vanilla
Apple-Cinnamon
Salted Caramel
Cream Soda Float with vanilla soft-serve
Fanta Grape Float with vanilla soft-serve
Beverages:
Frozen Apple Pie (Non-alcoholic)
Cinnamon Apple Cider (Non-alcoholic)
3 Daughters Toasted Coconut Porter
3 Daughters Toasted Coconut Porter Float with vanilla soft-serve
Berry Fizz Fragolino Red Sparkling Wine Float with vanilla soft-serve
Mexico
Food Items:
Tostada de Carnitas: Braised pork on a fried corn tortilla with black beans, avocado mousse, queso fresco, and chives (New)
Taco de Costilla: Slow-braised beef short rib on a corn tortilla with salsa de chile morita, avocado mousse, and spring onions (New)
Pastel Imposible: Layers of traditional Mexican flan and tres leches with guava and cajeta (New)
Beverages:
Mexican Craft Beer
Trouble in Paradise Margarita: Ilegal Mezcal, Combier Watermelon Liqueur, Rosé Wine, Lime Juice, and Agave with a Chili-Lime Powder Rim (New)
Fly Away Margarita: Nocheluna Sotol, Pineapple-Ginger Juice, Chile Ancho Verde Liqueur, and Ambhar Blanco Tequila with a Sweet Dried Chili Salt Rim (NEW)
France
Food Items:
Beignet aux Trois Fromages: Warm beignet filled with three cheese blend
Croissant aux Escargots: Escargot croissant with garlic and parsley
Boeuf Bourguignon, Pommes Dauphine: Braised short ribs in cabernet with puffed potatoes
Crème Brûlée Vanille à la Confiture de Fraises: Vanilla crème brûlée with house-made strawberry jam
Beverages:
Strawberry Rose Mimosa: Pol Remy Sparkling Wine, orange juice, and Monin Strawberry Rose
Merlot-Cabernet Sauvignon Blend (New)
Chardonnay (New)
Parisian Cosmo Slush: Vodka, Grey Goose Le Citron Vodka, Grand Marnier, and cranberry juice (New)
Cavatelli with sweet sausage ragoût and crispy Applewood-smoked bacon (New)
Lemon Ricotta Cheesecake with vanilla cream and strawberry compote (New)
Beverages:
Prosecco
Moscato
Chianti
Italian Sangria (Red or White)
Italian Margarita with tequila and limoncello
Peroni Pilsner
China
Food Items:
Pan-fried Chicken Dumplings with house-made sweet-and-spicy sauce
Crispy Duck Bao Bun with hoisin sauce (New)
Dandan Noodles: Spicy pork with Sichuan sauce, peanut butter, and sesame
Beverages:
Passion Fruit Bubble Tea (Non-alcoholic)
Fiery Dream: Citrus vodka, triple sec, guava nectar, and spicy hot honey syrup
ByeJoe Punch: Chinese BaiJiu spirit, piña colada mix, lychee syrup, and sparkling water
Fireworks: Jose Cuervo Gold Tequila, citrus vodka, orange juice, and mango syrup
Brew Hub Lychee Foo Draft Beer
Japan
Food Items:
Teriyaki Chicken Bun: Steamed bun filled with chicken, vegetables, and teriyaki sauce
Fire Taiko Roll: Sushi roll with spicy tuna, cucumber, and pickled daikon radish served with spicy sauce (New)
Beef Wa-Gyu Don: Traditional Japanese rice bowl with American wagyu beef over steamed white rice (New)
Beverages:
Sake Passion Cocktail (New)
Moon on the Water Sake (New)
Brew Hub Momo Amber Ale (New)
Funnel Cake
Food Item:
Candied Bacon Funnel Cake: Funnel Cake topped with Vanilla Ice Cream, Candied Bacon, and Maple Syrup Drizzle (New)
Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company
The American Adventure – Nutty Caramel Mocha Cold Brew: A sweet blend of caramel mudslide cold brew, caramel syrup, peanut butter syrup, and chocolate syrup topped with whipped cream and caramel sauce (Spirited version available with Carolans Peanut Butter Irish Cream Liqueur)(New)
Near Canada – Frozen Roseberry: A refreshing blend of frozen lemon and strawberry-rose syrup (Spirited version available with Grey Goose Vodka)(New)
World Discovery (Near Mission: SPACE) – Amaretto Iced Tea: A sweet and nutty blend of black iced tea and amaretto syrup (Spirited version available with Citrónge Orange Liqueur)(New)
World Showcase (Near Disney Traders) – Java Horchata: A sweet blend of espresso and horchata topped with whipped cream and cinnamon (Spirited version available with Grey Goose Vodka and Kahlúa Liqueur) (New)
There you have it – the Foodie Guide to this year’s EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival presented by CORKCICLE! I hope you and your tastebuds enjoy a flavorful journey across the globe.
With exciting events like this and so many more, the possibilities for fun and adventure are endless at Disney Parks!
Nestled in the heart of Tomorrowland at Disney parks, the Lunching Pad offers guests a quick and convenient spot to refuel with tasty snacks and refreshing beverages. With its prime location, space-themed decor, and an array of delicious treats, this popular snack haven provides a much-needed boost of energy for adventurers exploring the futuristic realm. Let’s venture into the Lunching Pad and discover the delights it has to offer.
As you approach the Lunching Pad, you’ll be greeted by its space-themed decor and vibrant colors, immersing you in the ambiance of Tomorrowland. The sleek metallic finishes, cosmic murals, and futuristic lighting create an atmosphere that perfectly complements the surrounding attractions. It’s a feast for the eyes and adds an extra dose of excitement to your snack experience.
The Lunching Pad offers a variety of quick bites that are perfect for a midday recharge or a light meal on the go. Sink your teeth into a mouthwatering hot dog, loaded with creative toppings that cater to all taste preferences. The menu also includes flavorful pretzels, both savory and sweet, as well as refreshing beverages to quench your thirst. The selection is designed to provide a satisfying and convenient snacking experience for guests on the move.
The Lunching Pad’s location near popular attractions in Tomorrowland makes it a go-to spot for park-goers seeking a quick snack break. Whether you’re fueling up before boarding Space Mountain or reenergizing after an intergalactic adventure, the Lunching Pad offers a convenient option to grab a bite without straying too far from the excitement.
The menu at the Lunching Pad is designed to cater to various dietary preferences and cravings. Vegetarian options, like the plant-based bratwurst, ensure that all guests can find something to enjoy. The selection of toppings and condiments allows for customization, ensuring that your snack experience is tailored to your taste buds.
The Lunching Pad at Tomorrowland is a must-visit for Disney park-goers looking for a quick and satisfying snack. With its futuristic atmosphere, varied menu, and prime location, it offers a convenient and enjoyable experience for adventurers of all ages. So, the next time you’re exploring Tomorrowland, make sure to stop by the Lunching Pad and refuel with a delicious snack that will power you through your galactic journey.