Disney Reveals Special Halloween Treats at Disney Springs & Disney World Resorts

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Dining, Disney Parks

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)

    • Halloween Minnie Waffle Sundae: Bubble waffle filled with chocolate soft-serve, orange sauce, chocolate cream cookies, candy corn, and chocolate sticks (New) 

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)
  • Vampire Float: Vanilla gelato, Sprite, strawberry sauce, and whipped cream (Non-alcoholic)

Outdoor Bars (Available Sept. 6 through Nov. 4) 

  • 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)

  • Tombstone Sweet: Chocolate cake, chocolate-coffee mousse, caramel-milk chocolate mousse, and ganache

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)

  • Tombstone Sweet: Chocolate cake, chocolate-coffee mousse, caramel-milk chocolate mousse, and ganache

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Le Petit Café (Available Sept. 3 through Nov. 25) 

  • 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!

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar: A Culinary Journey Through Italy’s Finest Wines

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

In the heart of the enchanting World Showcase at Epcot in Orlando, Florida, the Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar stands as a testament to the rich heritage and flavors of Italian winemaking. This hidden gem, situated within the Italy pavilion, offers visitors a captivating experience that combines the art of wine with the essence of Italian culture.

Tutto Gusto, which translates to “all tastes” in Italian, lives up to its name by offering an extensive selection of wines that cater to a variety of palates. As you step into the cozy cellar, you’re immediately enveloped in the warm ambiance reminiscent of an Italian enoteca. The rustic décor, complete with wooden barrels and vintage wine bottles, transports you to the heart of Italy’s wine country.

The cellar boasts an impressive collection of over 200 Italian wines, ranging from the renowned Chiantis and Barolos of Tuscany and Piedmont to lesser-known regional treasures. This eclectic selection allows both casual wine enthusiasts and seasoned connoisseurs to embark on a journey through Italy’s diverse wine regions, each sip revealing the distinct terroir and centuries-old traditions that give these wines their unique character.

One of the cellar’s standout features is its curated wine flights. These thoughtfully arranged tasting flights offer a delightful exploration of various wine styles, such as reds, whites, and sparkling wines. Each flight is accompanied by a carefully crafted assortment of Italian cheeses, cured meats, and other delectable bites, creating a harmonious marriage of flavors that enhances the tasting experience.

Beyond its remarkable wine offerings, Tutto Gusto serves as a haven for those seeking respite from the bustling theme park atmosphere. The cozy nooks and communal tables provide an intimate setting to unwind and savor the moment. Whether you’re relishing a glass of velvety Amarone or engaging in lively conversations with fellow patrons, the cellar encourages a sense of camaraderie that embodies the heart of Italian culture.

The staff at Tutto Gusto are not only knowledgeable about wines but also passionate about sharing their expertise. They are more than willing to guide guests through the wine selection process, offering insights into the characteristics of each varietal and assisting in pairing choices that best complement your palate.

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar transcends its role as a mere wine bar and emerges as an immersive cultural experience. It captures the essence of Italy’s time-honored winemaking traditions, inviting visitors to indulge in the art of winemaking and appreciate the stories behind each bottle. For both Disney enthusiasts and wine aficionados, Tutto Gusto stands as a must-visit destination, where the rich tapestry of Italian flavors and hist

Kilimanjaro Safaris: A Thrilling Expedition into the Heart of African Wilderness

Posted on by Mathew Corn Animal Kingdom, Disney Parks

Within Disney’s Animal Kingdom, the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction offers visitors a unique and immersive journey through the vast landscapes and diverse wildlife of the African savannah. This exhilarating expedition combines entertainment with education, providing guests with an opportunity to witness some of the world’s most magnificent creatures in a habitat closely resembling their natural environment. In this article, we’ll explore the captivating allure of Kilimanjaro Safaris and the unforgettable experience it offers to explorers of all ages.

As visitors embark on the Kilimanjaro Safaris expedition, they step into a specially designed safari vehicle that takes them on a thrilling ride through an expansive African reserve. The attraction aims to recreate the experience of an actual safari, complete with the sights, sounds, and sensations of the African wilderness.

The highlight of Kilimanjaro Safaris is the opportunity to encounter a diverse array of African wildlife up close. Guests can spot animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and many others as they roam freely within their habitats. The authenticity of the landscapes and the presence of these majestic creatures create a sense of awe and wonder that’s unparalleled.

Beyond its entertainment value, Kilimanjaro Safaris offers educational insights into the importance of wildlife conservation and habitat preservation. The attraction’s knowledgeable guides provide guests with interesting facts about the animals, their behaviors, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting their natural habitats. This aspect of the attraction makes it both entertaining and informative, allowing visitors to develop a deeper appreciation for the animal kingdom and the need to safeguard it.

One of the unique aspects of Kilimanjaro Safaris is the dynamic and unpredictable nature of each expedition. The animals are free to roam and interact as they would in the wild, which means that no two safari experiences are the same. Guests might witness animals engaged in playful interactions, relaxing in the shade, or even participating in feeding sessions, adding an element of surprise to every journey.

Kilimanjaro Safaris goes beyond visual encounters, engaging multiple senses to create an immersive experience. Guests can hear the calls of the animals, feel the sway of the safari vehicle as it traverses uneven terrain, and even catch a whiff of the savannah’s distinct scents. These sensory elements combine to transport visitors into the heart of Africa’s wilderness.

Kilimanjaro Safaris at Disney’s Animal Kingdom is not just an attraction; it’s a mesmerizing expedition that transports visitors into the heart of the African savannah. Through its immersive landscapes, captivating wildlife, educational insights, and multi-sensory experience, it offers a window into the beauty and diversity of the natural world. Whether you’re an animal enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking an adventure that blends entertainment and education, Kilimanjaro Safaris promises a breathtaking journey that lingers in your memory long after the expedition ends.

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Timeless Elegance and Disney Magic Unite

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks, Disney Resorts

On the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon at Walt Disney World, The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa stands as a symbol of timeless luxury, sophistication, and Disney enchantment. This iconic resort captures the essence of Victorian elegance while infusing it with the magic that defines the Disney experience. In this article, we’ll embark on a journey through The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and explore the enchanting blend of opulence and whimsy that sets it apart as a premier destination within the Disney universe.

From the moment you approach the resort’s magnificent white façade, The Grand Floridian’s Victorian-inspired architecture takes your breath away. The grandeur of the sweeping verandas, intricate gingerbread trimmings, and lush gardens evokes a sense of refined elegance reminiscent of a bygone era. The blending of this opulent aesthetic with the imaginative magic of Disney creates a unique atmosphere that is simultaneously classic and captivating.

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a range of accommodations, from beautifully appointed rooms to lavish suites. Each room is adorned with intricate details and modern amenities, allowing guests to experience the perfect fusion of Victorian charm and contemporary comfort. Whether you’re gazing out at the lagoon from your balcony or resting in the plush surroundings of your room, you’ll feel immersed in the lap of luxury.

The resort’s dining options are a culinary delight, offering guests a range of experiences to tantalize their palates. Victoria & Albert’s, a AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant, delivers an unparalleled fine dining experience with its elegant ambiance and exquisite tasting menus. For a taste of southern charm, the Grand Floridian Café offers a more casual setting with delectable dishes that celebrate regional flavors.

One of the most cherished experiences at The Grand Floridian is the afternoon tea at the Garden View Tea Room. Amidst the delicate clinking of teacups and the aroma of freshly brewed blends, guests can indulge in a traditional tea service that transports them to an era of refined leisure. The enchanting setting and delectable treats make for a memorable and charming afternoon.

The Grand Floridian Lobby Society Orchestra adds a touch of sophistication to the resort’s atmosphere. The live performances, often featuring classical and Disney tunes, create an ambiance that’s both enchanting and inviting. The orchestra’s melodies fill the air and enhance the sense of elegance that permeates the resort.

Beyond its own allure, The Grand Floridian’s strategic location allows guests to easily access the enchantment of the Magic Kingdom. The resort is just a short monorail ride or boat journey away from the park, enabling visitors to seamlessly transition between the tranquility of the resort and the excitement of the parks.

The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is more than just a place to stay; it’s an experience that merges the elegance of Victorian times with the enchantment of Disney magic. From the moment you enter its grand lobby to the indulgence of its world-class dining options, the resort encapsulates luxury and wonder. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or simply a taste of opulence, The Grand Floridian promises an unforgettable journey where sophistication, comfort, and Disney magic come together in perfect harmony.

Hurricane Idalia Makes Landfall in Florida as Category 3, Tornado Watch Issued for Walt Disney World

Posted on by Mathew Corn Disney Parks

A tornado watch is now in effect for Orange County, Florida, home to Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort.

Hurricane Idalia made landfall in Florida as a Category 3 storm. While the hurricane is not expected to pass through Central Florida, adverse weather conditions are likely to continue.

The National Weather Service has issued the Tornado Watch for most of the state and is predicting a 60% chance of two or more tornadoes.

The storm is expected to move quickly over Florida, but the state could still see rainfall of up to 4-8 inches, with some areas getting as much as 12 inches along Florida’s west coast and panhandle.

To assist in evacuation efforts, Florida’s Department of Transportation has removed tolls in portions of the state.

At this time, the theme parks at Walt Disney World Resort and Universal Orlando Resort are operating as normal, with both destinations closely monitoring the weather. Walt Disney World is waiving their change and cancellation fees through September 5, and offering 50% off hotel stays for Florida residents evacuating and first responders dealing with the storm. Typhoon Lagoon and the mini golf courses are closed.