! Why is it so unique you might ask? Many people are quick to say “No!” when they learn that Sanaa serves “African or Indian cuisine.” I’m sure most people glance at the menu and think, “Oh this is going to be weird and spicy!” Luckily that is not the case at all. Yes, the food does have an authentic African/Indian flare to it, but most people find it delicious and unique. Join me as we talk about Disney World Dining: Sanaa, to find out why I love it!

Disney World Dining: Sanaa

There are two main reasons I love Sanaa: Ambiance and Cuisine.

Ambiance

Sanaa is a table-service restaurant located at the Animal Kingdom Lodge in the Kidani Village. Quite frankly, its location is a hot minute from the rest of Disney World, so some people don’t give Sanaa a chance simply because of where it is. Fortunately, once you arrive and see the scenery and eat the food, it definitely makes the trip worth it! As you make your way downstairs where the restaurant is located you’ll see that the entrance features some beautiful, handcrafted African artwork. The beads that line the podium are simply gorgeous. You might even be able to spy a Hidden Mickey on the mats behind the counter where the “Sanaa” Sign is displayed. The waiting area outside of the restaurant features large windows that look out onto Sunset Savanna, the same view that you’ll enjoy once you’re seated inside. This plays into the ambiance that I mentioned earlier! Be sure to keep your eyes open to see some amazing hand-crafted decorations.

In the main dining room, the view above changes to resemble a tree canopy with rustic lanterns hanging from the branches overhead. One of the reasons I wanted to eat at this restaurant was the view! I requested a Savanna view before I was seated and it was so neat! Chances are great that you’ll have an opportunity to see a variety of animals as you dine.

Walt Express Tip

If seeing animals is important to you, here’s a TIP: be sure to book your Advanced Dining Reservation for earlier in the day. Choose either lunch or an early dinner. Later reservations might fall after dark, and you won’t be able to see much except your reflection in the glass at that point. With all of that being said, now it’s time to take a look at the menu!

Cuisine

I had no idea what to order but our waitress was amazing! She walked me through all of the drink options and the entire menu. She suggested the Bread Service for an appetizer, so that’s where the meal began.

The Famous Bread Service

If you’re dining at Sanaa for the very first time, you should know that bread service here is not complimentary. However, it is very much worth the price of $17.00. It came with some incredible breads and accompanying nine sauces and spreads. My favorite sauces were Roasted Red Pepper Hummus, Mango Chutney and Tamarind Chutney. The Bread Service was so unique and it was a great way to start the dinner.

Main Course

When it came to the entree part of the meal I decided to choose the Potjie Inspired option. This is where I got to choose one meat and one vegetable dish from several options and it was also served with rice. Overall the Butter Chicken was my favorite! The Butter Chicken I ate was so tender and flavorful, my fork would glide right through it. I loved it so much I now have created my own recipe and make it at home pretty often.

Dessert

Dessert was nothing short of amazing also. I had the Caramel N’dizi, which was Banana Financier with Caramelized Milk Chocolate Crémeux, Hazelnut Crunch, Banana-White Chocolate Chantilly, and Ginger Raspberries.

Disney Dining Plan

Sanaa is one table service credit per person on the Disney Dining Plan. The Bread Service is not included and will need to be purchased separately. The price for the bread service is $17.00.

Why I Love Sanaa

Sanaa remains one of my absolute top picks for dining at Disney World. Sure, it’s a little inconvenient, with its waaaaaaay off the beaten path location in Kidani Village. It’s true: you will likely need to mark off a few hours if you dine here. But it’s so worth it! The food is phenomenal. In addition to that, the care that Imagineers took in creating this restaurant is apparent everywhere. The view of the Sunset Savanna — free with a meal!! — is unparalleled. Usually, you would pay big bucks to see animals like this.

And don’t forget, once you’re at Animal Kingdom Lodge, there’s plenty to look at and see there as well. Even if you aren’t staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge, this restaurant is worth the trip.  It is definitely a hidden gem and reservations aren’t too hard to get here!

If you plan to head back to Animal Kingdom Park, be sure to check out these snacks that are available! ANIMAL KINGDOM SNACKS!

Looking for more Disney Dining reviews? We have lots of great information in our Facebook Group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE! Join us today!

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So, I’m sure as you can imagine we pulled everything out of the house that could hurt her in any way. We take every precaution we can and watch everything she eats, constantly. Not only that, but she is constantly on the lookout for her predators.

She knows what can happen to her, so she takes extra precautions as well. So with that being said, we are very careful, EXTREMELY CAREFUL, when we go away from the house, especially out of town. We do not take our dining experiences away from home lightly, we take them very, very seriously!

How to Prepare for Food Allergies at Disney

We feel very secure when it comes to our Disney vacation and allergies.

Before we go on a Disney trip, before making any reservations we check the menus and make sure we are aware of everything that could be harmful to her. If you have ever made any reservations at Disney, I’m sure you are aware they ask you to checkmark anything that anyone may be allergic to at the time of your visit. When you arrive they check the allergies, when you are seated they double check and then send a chef to your table to even triple check!

How Disney Stepped Up Dealing with Food Allergies

Of all the years and times we have gone to Disney we have only had one problem with their system. Even though there were issues, they made it right. It can be very scary having allergies like that.

We use our best judgment for sure but, do feel more secure going to Disney knowing they put such effort into making everyone comfortable. We have definitely had more positive experiences than negative. If anything, my daughter thinks it is so cool that the chef comes to her table and talks to her. She finds that more exciting than seeing actual characters at her table.

One year when we were visiting Tusker House in the Animal Kingdom for lunch, there were not many desserts my daughter could eat, AT ALL. The chef was worried about cross contamination so he brought her a whole brown sandwich bag full of Gluten-Free, allergy-free packaged snacks and desserts (they didn’t sell or serve at Tusker House) that were safe for her to eat. He went over and beyond! We were grateful as well as my daughter, she for sure did not go without!

The quick service meals are a little tricky but with a little research, a little asking a cast member, and a little reading labels, it is possible. We have always had a great experience and will continue to keep going with my daughter’s allergies. We still use our best judgment and take her EpiPen, but we find comfort in knowing Disney takes such a big effort to make all of their visitors comfortable. If you have any questions or would like to bend my ear on the allergy system at Disney please feel free to ask.

For more information on Special Dietary Request take a tour here on the Disney site.

Special Dietary Requests/ Walt Disney World Resort

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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When putting together your Walt Disney World vacation, what is the first thing you start planning?  For me, I’m not spending time thinking about which hotel is best for my family, nor am I creating a list of must-do attractions; the first thing I want to plan is the snacks!  Snacks, snacks, glorious Disney snacks; I dream about the delicious, delectable, and unique snacks that only Disney can do right.  It is not uncommon for me to start thinking about which snacks I plan to purchase on my next Walt Disney World vacation while I am waiting in line to get a snack on my current trip.  In fact, I love the snacks at Walt Disney World so much that I have gone on entire vacations where I dined only on snacks instead of purchasing counter service meals.  I figure that if I love Disney snacks this much, there might also be others who feel the same way or who are curious to know which snacks are worth the money (or snack credit on the Disney Dining Plan).

Top 8 Snacks at The Magic Kingdom

Well, look no further because this self-proclaimed Disney Snack Queen is going to give you a whole series on the best snacks in each park and I will round the series off with a look at the top 10 from all of the parks and resorts combined.   For clarity sake, I have only included items that qualify as a snack on the Disney Dining Plan for this series.

To start off the Top Snacks in Walt Disney World series, let me take you to the very first place I ever experienced a Walt Disney World snack, The Magic Kingdom.

#8-Popcorn 

Popcorn, popcorn, get your popcorn!  Who doesn’t love the salty, buttery, yet crisp perfection of popcorn?  For some reason, it tastes even better when you can savor it while walking down Main Street.  My son always requests popcorn the minute we walk under the train station and my husband and I are happy to oblige…as long as he shares.  There is a kiosk located on the left-hand entrance close to Town Hall and you can smell the freshly popped popcorn as soon as you walk in the park.  Our family feels like The Magic Kingdom is made more magical if we are savoring a box (or specialty bucket!) of this timeless, salty snack as we walk down Main Street.

#7-The Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich 

Ah, the walk down Main Street U.S.A. would not be complete on a hot day without a stop into The Plaza Ice Cream Parlor for an ice cream cookie sandwich.  This ice cream sandwich is far superior to those sold at the carts throughout Walt Disney World.  Why you may ask?  Well, because the cookies are freshly baked here AND you get to choose your favorite flavor of ice cream to go inside the fresh cookie sandwich.  It’s hard to beat a freshly baked cookie with hand-scooped ice cream nestled inside, so please don’t make the mistake of skipping this fabulous snack if you are visiting during the warm/hot weather months.

#6-The Frozen Raspberry Lemonade 

Do you know what else my family loves to purchase on hot, summer Disney days?  The Frozen Raspberry Lemonade!  This perfectly icy, tart treat can be found just a skip away from The Mad Tea Party ride in a quaint looking snack stand known as The Cheshire Café.  While most people flock here for the cake cups, I always have my eye that fantastic frozen lemonade.  On a hot Florida day, I much prefer the tangy, tartness of the frozen raspberry lemonade over the cake cups or even the traditional frozen lemonade.  This cold treat always hits the spot with just the right amount of sour and sweet, icy goodness and it’s always on tap at The Cheshire Café.

#5-The Cinnamon Roll 

Years ago, before Starbucks took over, you could follow the scent of warm cinnamon straight into The Main Street Bakery, where they sold large, perfectly iced cinnamon rolls.   However, if you are looking for the same cinnamon roll your parents ate years ago at Walt Disney World, you will now have to venture a little farther into the parks and head over to New Fantasyland.  Gaston’s Tavern is now the home to the classic Walt Disney World cinnamon roll.  Don’t let the name fool you though, this is not your run of the mill cinnamon roll; this thing is massive and so delicious.  It’s moist, but not mushy and it is quite literally bigger than my hand…heck, it might be bigger than my head.  This snack costs less than $5.00 (or one snack credit) and can be shared by a family of four as a snack or you can make a meal out of it for two people.  Now that’s a rare bargain at a theme park!

#4-The Premium Mickey Ice Cream Bar 

Everyone loves Mickey and I think it’s crucial to have at least one Mickey shaped treat on my snack list.  My personal favorite of the Mickey shaped items is the Premium Mickey Ice Cream Bar, which can be found at snack carts around The Magic Kingdom.  I love this little ice cream bar because it is the perfect combination of simple vanilla ice cream and crisp chocolate coating for a hot day at the parks.  I don’t think this snack is good enough to top the list, but this treat makes it to #4 for sheer sentimentality; it was the first snack I ever ate at Walt Disney World and so it will always hold a special place in my heart and in my snack budget.  If you have never had this ice cream treat, give it a try on your next trip and maybe even consider spreading a little magic by purchasing an extra to give to a child who looks like they need an ice cream break.  I can promise that you’ll make a memory neither of you is soon to forget.

#3-The Dole Whip 

Nestled behind the Magic Carpets of Aladdin is the new location for Aloha Isle.  This location only serves up one specialty, but it’s one of the most well-loved and popular snacks on property…the Dole Whip.  You can purchase this pineapple soft serve in a cup, but my family prefers to cut the super sweet taste of the pineapple ice cream by requesting the float version, which is made with refreshing pineapple juice.  At this point, you might be screaming at your screen saying, “#3, you put the Dole Whip at #3?!?!  The Dole Whip should always be #1!”  However, we will have to agree to disagree on this one.  To me, the Dole Whip is just a little too sweet for my tastes, especially now that they no longer offer the vanilla or orange swirl options.  It’s still a refreshing favorite, but it no longer tops my family’s list anymore.

#2-The Cream Cheese Filled Pretzel  

If you are still with me after reading that the quintessential favorite is not my #1, then you might be wondering what in the world could possibly be better than a Dole Whip.  Well, one of my favorites also happens to be a unique treat, but it can only be found in one place in The Magic Kingdom.  In Tomorrowland, the Lunching Pad serves up unique hot dogs and other quick treats, but the real treasure here is the cream cheese filled pretzel.  Now, you may have noticed by my list that I am a big fan of carbs and sugar (but not too much sugar) and this snack most certainly fits the bill.  The Lunching Pad has found the best balance with this pretzel by serving it up warm with a dusting of mildly spiced, soft breadcrumbs on the outside and piping the inside full of the most perfect cream cheese filling.  Let’s talk about the filling for just a moment, because this cream cheese is the stuff of dreams.  The cream cheese icing the Lunching Pad uses is barely sweet and has the robust and unique tang that a good cream cheese icing should always have and in fact, it’s almost exactly like the icing my mother-in-law makes for her famous red velvet cakes.  This is not the sickeningly sweet version found on most mass-produced baked goods, this is the real deal and it makes this snack an over the top hit for me.  Do not wait too late to grab one of these, because they often run out of this delicious snack early because I’m not the only one with a mild crush on this pretzel.

#1-Cake Pops 

You can find many treats that will surpass your expectations at The Main Street Confectionery, and the cake pop here is so delicious that I made it my #1 snack in The Magic Kingdom.   What’s so special about this snack?  Well, it may have something to do with the fact that they come in several adorable varieties or maybe it’s because the Mickey ears are made of white chocolate covered marshmallows and one bite instantly satisfies the need for something sweet.  Even the core of the cake pop is amazing and for me it’s the real star of this snack with its perfectly moist, dense cake center that is reminiscent of homemade raw cookie dough.  My family never misses the chance to get our hands on a cake pop and we have been known to visit The Main Street Confectionery more than once in a day to get our fix.  When it all comes down to it though, I think the cake pop earns the #1 spot because there is something quite magical about always having the same treat every time you go to The Magic Kingdom.  Oh gracious, now I’m salivating just thinking about it.  Who wants to bring a cake pop from Disney World?  No takers, huh?  Well, that must mean it’s time for us to plan our next trip so I can get my hands on one…or three.

So there you have it, my top five snacks at The Magic Kingdom.  Did I leave your favorite off the list?  If so, please leave a comment and let us know what snacks I should have added to the list.  Also, don’t forget to follow Walt Express and on Facebook to see how your top 5 and my top 5 snacks stack up against each other around the rest of the Walt Disney World theme parks and resorts.  By following us, you can read the next installment of the series as soon as it comes out. Look for my Top 5 snacks to grab at Epcot two weeks from today.  Until next time, we hope that your days are filled with faith, trust and pixie dust.

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I’m baaaack and I am ready to snack around the world or at least the World Showcase.  Have no fear though, because while we are scouring all of Epcot for the best snacks around, we will stop in many areas throughout the park, not just the World Showcase.  I only kept one rule in mind while creating this list, every item must be an eligible snack on the Disney Dining Plan.   So, who is with me?  Are you ready to hear about my top 6 snacks at Epcot?

Top 6 Snacks at EPCOT

#6-Starbucks

Ok so you might be thinking that a mega-chain like Starbucks does not belong on the best of the best Epcot list of snacks, but it is super exciting for those of us who have been wanting decent coffee in the parks for years.  I can remember my very first trip to Disney World as a mother and I will never forget desperately looking for the elixir of life, better known to many as coffee.  When you have a child who hasn’t slept for more than a three-hour stretch at one time since birth, you sometimes wish that the family from Meet the Robinson’s really did invent those caffeine patches.  But nooooo, I couldn’t find a single one of those caffeine patches anywhere on Disney property, nor could I find any coffee in the theme parks that resembled the liquid gold that had been keeping me bright-eyed and bushy-tailed since my son’s birth.  So needless to say, getting a Starbucks in every theme park was a HUGE deal to me and I am sure that my husband would like to thank the people behind this decision as well.

Now I realize you probably didn’t need that soliloquy about my need for coffee, but the thing you do need to know about Starbucks is that you can basically get any latte or coffee on the menu for one snack credit AND you can even add an extra espresso shot to your drink of choice at no extra cost.  Now that is what I call maximizing a snack credit.  If you see me in Future World with my Starbucks cup, please note that it is now probably safe to approach me and give me a hug for this great tip.

#5-School Bread

Tucked away into Norway is the Kringla Bakeri og Cafe where a foodie favorite is served to the masses daily.  School Bread is a treat that is recommended as one of the best snacks in Epcot on every message board, chat, or Facebook posts about snacks and I can understand why.  The basic sweet roll is filled with mild, not too sweet pudding and topped with a thin layer of icing and a bit of toasted, shaved coconut.  If you love pastries, this one is a real treat.  The only thing that kept it from falling closer to the top of my list is because it is served cold and to me that typically makes a pastry taste a bit stale.

#4-Specialty Popcorn

Y’all already know that my family has a thing for popcorn and Epcot really delivers by dishing up a specialty popcorn kiosk in the Imagination Pavilion right beside Journey Into the Imagination.  This snack cart offers up gourmet flavored popcorns that are bursting with flavor; these are not the standard prepackaged versions we have gotten throughout the parks, these are freshly popped and coated versions that are worth being on every park’s top 5 list.  There are three different flavors for your tasting pleasure: cheddar cheese, sour cream and chives, and buffalo and bleu cheese.  The cheddar cheese is coated in what resembles a sharp cheddar sauce, yet the popcorn has stayed nice and crunchy without getting soggy like it would with most coatings.  The sour cream and chives is even more robust and popping with flavor; it has the nice smoothness of the sour cream and the bite of the chives without being powdery or artificial tasting.  My favorite of the three flavors is the buffalo and bleu cheese.  I have always loved spicy foods and the buffalo and bleu cheese combo has always been one of my favorite profiles because it combines the salty goodness of the bleu cheese with the tangy, brightness of the vinegar based buffalo sauce.  No matter which one you think sounds like the perfect pick for you, I promise that you won’t regret this use of a snack credit.

#3-Creme Brulee

Les Halles Boulangerie and Patisserie in the French Pavilion is the home of some of the best snacks on property, but it really wouldn’t be fair to the competition to have the whole top 5 from the same location.  Some of the most amazing sweet snacks here include the creme puff, the chocolate eclair, and the napoleon.  However, my favorite sugary option here is the creme brulee.  The creme brulee here has the classic, crunchy, caramelized sugar crust and a smooth vanilla creme in the middle.  The thick caramelized crust is the star of this snack, so make sure you get an extra spoon (not for sharing this snack, but just in case the plastic spoon happens to break while you are cracking through that delectable, crunchy crust).

#2-Caramel Corn

Oh, the Karamell-Kuche in the German pavilion… Does it get much better than a place that is dedicated to caramel treats? Seriously, you can’t even walk by this place without smelling the heavenly aroma of Werther’s original caramel.  Y’all know my family loves popcorn, so I’m sure you are not surprised some type of popcorn has landed so high on my list. However, popcorn fanatic or not, I don’t know a single person that has tried the heavenly caramel corn at Karamell-Kuche and walked away without purchasing at least a small bag of this creamy, buttery caramel corn. Come to think of it, I know quite a few people who won’t eat popcorn anywhere else, yet end up eating over half of my bag of the crunchy and fresh caramel corn (I’m looking at you, hubby). The next time you are in the German pavilion, you must stop by and watch the cast members make this fresh and grab a bag to go(or two if you have someone with you who swears they don’t like popcorn).

#1-Croissant Doughnut (a.k.a. The Cronut)

Oh y’all!  I can’t even get that title typed out without salivating. Seriously, this croissant donut is just too good to even explain. Note that it would be very easy to miss, but every Disney food/snack lover should get out their park map and immediately mark the Refreshment Port as a must stop location. If you are headed into Canada, this snack spot is tucked away to the right before you reach Le Cellier. The menu changes a lot, but for well over two years they have been serving up what is lovingly known as the Cronut in most places, but because that term is trademarked Disney calls it the Croissant Doughnut. What makes this a family favorite is that it is always served up fresh out of the deep fryer and the flaky layers are buttery and soft but the exterior has the crunch of a good, homemade cinnamon and sugar toast.  It’s the perfect combination of incredible pastry and sugary sweetness. My mother prefers it served a la mode, but I don’t care for the added sweetness. No matter how sweet you prefer your snacks, do not miss the opportunity to try this unique and delicious snack. I think if Mary Poppins were allowed to stroll over to the Refreshment Port, she would agree with me when I say that this snack is “practically perfect in every way”.

Ok friends, now you have my carb loaded list of my top 6 snacks in Epcot. How does it compare to your favorites in and around the World Showcase? Did I leave off your favorite or did you read this and need to wipe the drool off of your keyboard?  Please chime in and let us know what you think. We can’t wait to hear what your favorites are because we will be using guest comments and our current lists to create our Grand Finale Top 10 snacks in all of Walt Disney World post at the end of the series.  Stay tuned for the top snack list for Hollywood Studios coming up in 2 weeks on Walt Express. Until next time, I hope your days are filled with faith, trust and pixie dust.

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Don’t forget to check out: Top 8 Must-Have Snacks at the Magic Kingdom

The post Top 6 Snacks at Epcot You Don’t Want to Miss! appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

Tusker House Restaurant: A Disney World Dining Review

In a previous post, I have written about some not as well-known experiences that my family has had in Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World. Today, I would like to share some of my favorite things about the character dining at Tusker House inside the Africa section of Animal Kingdom.

Location

The first thing you will notice when you enter the dining area is that it is off the main path and has more room for you to stretch out as you get signed in for your reservation. We have always done breakfast, and I love this time of day in the park as it is so serene and shady with the trees everywhere.

What to Expect

When you get seated, you will notice that the tables are spaced out well and it has a large dining room. It is buffet style, which I like, because you are not waiting on food or anyone to take your order. Especially for breakfast when the kids are “hangry”, I mean hungry, the buffet is a great option. My daughter loved the serve-yourself size buffet lines that are just her size. They offer some very interesting and new African style breakfast options, as well as your classic American flavors, including Mickey pancakes. There are over 45 items in the buffet! I love this because I get to try something new that I would not have the option to try at any local restaurants in my hometown, and you don’t have to worry if you don’t like it, because it is buffet.

As I mentioned above, this restaurant keeps in the African theme, complete with ethnic cuisines. Of course, you will see all of your favorites such as scrambled eggs, bacon, cereals and more. You will also see a great variety of items such as spit-roasted ham, beef bobotie, basmati rice, and spiced corn beef hash. The coconut sweet potatoes will have you traveling back to the buffet line very quickly! Coffee is brought out to the table in a large coffee pot, so you will be sure to be ready to take on your day in Animal Kingdom. For the kids, there is always plenty of “monkey juice”. This juice is an exotic blend of mango and passion-fruit.

Don’t forget to grab a piece or two of the large variety of breads that are also available. My personal favorite: banana-cinnamon bread pudding with warm vanilla sauce.

The Characters

The other thing that makes this breakfast so special is the characters. Although they don’t guarantee characters, we had Safari Mickey, Goofy, Donald Duck, and Daisy Duck to stop by our table to visit awhile. The best part is they are dressed in their safari gear! So adorable! I love that this meal gives you flexibility to eat at your own pace or speed it up, depending on what all you want to accomplish in your day. We love to sit and enjoy the meal while the kids interact with the characters. Be sure to bring your autograph book and pen! You don’t get to see Safari Goofy everyday!

Walt Express TIP!

We did not plan it this way, however it worked out nicely that as soon as we were ready to leave, the next Lion King show was getting ready to start. There was no line and the Lion King Show entrance is RIGHT NEXT TO TUSKER HOUSE! Next time we go, I will make sure I schedule the same breakfast time so we can get to the first show that is not very crowded.

Another great attraction in the same area is the Kilimanjaro Safari!

Let me know what you think about Tusker House if you have been there before! Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: A Disney World Dining Review

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre is located in Hollywood Studios and brings a perfect ending to a great day in Hollywood Studios. It can also be a perfect place to rest in the middle of the day for lunch. The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre is open for lunch and dinner and Disney Dining Plans are accepted.

What to Expect

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theatre offers delicious food in a very special atmosphere with its 50’s style drive-in dining. The seating is unique, with small round Flying Saucer Tables or, my personal favorite, convertible-top cars. Did you know, that if you have a reservation, you are guaranteed a convertible? You won’t find an experience like this one anywhere else on Disney property! We recently had the pleasure of going back in time to dine at this amazing restaurant!

As soon as you arrive, you will be whisked away to your “convertible” car (or table). Each convertible will accommodate up to 6 people. Your carhop will be around shortly to get those drink orders. As you take a peek at the menu, the movie is about to get started! You will be taken back in time to the 50’s when going to the drive-in was “the thing”. Keep in mind, these are older movies and ARE science fiction, which could scare younger movie goers. There is nothing that is too intense, but just keep that in mind. My son was 8 and was absolutely enthralled in the entire experience. He LOVED being able to watch the old movies while dining.

Of course, Mom had to ride in the back seat! How rude!

The Menu

Let me just say, we were very surprised by the menu choices here. From pastas and steak to burgers, there is something here for everyone. We, of course, HAD to try the burgers. We were NOT disappointed. These entrees are large enough to share, although no one in our party was willing!

The specialty burger was the SOUTHERN BURGER, with homemade pimento cheese, bacon and a friend green tomato. It was MASSIVE and quite delicious. The “specialty” changes seasonally.

Also ordered from our table, was the BBQ Burger with beef BBQ, onion straws and jalapenos! The little one wasn’t in the mood for burgers, so a child’s chicken tender meal was ordered. Not a crumb was left!

Dessert

This dessert should not even be legal to serve. A Sci-Fi original, the CANDY BAR was by far, the most delicious dessert I believe I have ever had the pleasure of tasting (and by tasting, I mean completely devouring).

In case you didn’t see that picture, let’s get a little more up close and personal.

We had a wonderful AND delicious experience at Sci-Fi Dine In Restaurant in Hollywood Studios and would totally recommend this little jewel to anyone visiting this park!

Tips

• One table service per person on the Disney Dining Plan.
• Be sure to request a “convertible”!
• This dining experience books up very fast, grab those reservations as soon as you can!

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Have you experienced this fabulous dining experience? What did you think? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

The post Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: A Disney World Dining Review appeared first on WaltExpress.com.

20 Snacks You Can’t Live Without At Walt Disney World

I am a huge snack lover! Probably not my best quality, but I am sticking with it! I asked you all in our Facebook Group, Disney Express Lane and Instagram, to tell me about your favorite snacks at the Disney Parks and you all definitely delivered. Some of your favorites were the classic snacks that I was expecting, but there were quite a few original suggestions. All sound yummy and as I am writing this post, I am ready to go to Disney World and try them all. I can’t wait to satisfy my snack habit!

• Turkey legs from the Yak & Yeti Quality Beverages in Animal Kingdom are always a hit if you like turkey on a stick!

• Macarons from Les Halles Boulangerie & Patisserie in Epcot’s France Pavilion I hear are awesome.

• Mickey Pretzels were next on the list! Everyone loves a salty treat in the shape of Mickey Mouse! This particular one is a cream cheese pretzel…OH MY DISNEY!!

• ANYTHING from Amorette’s Patisserie in Disney Springs is great for those chocolate lovers!

• Go to Magic Kingdom’s Sleepy Hollow Refreshments and find a delicious Fresh Fruit Waffle with a Chocolate Hazelnut Spread! Let me just say, be prepared for the amount of food that this is! I may or may not have had problems with my pants zipping after eating this!

• I was kind of surprised that popcorn made the bottom of the list, but many of you said you love getting popcorn in the seasonal take-home buckets. This is a great value especially when you get the food and a souvenir!

• Don’t forget about the gourmet popcorn at the Gourmet Popcorn Cart in Future World Epcot. It comes in three flavors: Cheddar, Buffalo Bleu Cheese, Sour Cream and Chive. Popcorn is also a CHEAP EAT!

• Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie in Epcot’s France Pavilion has delicious Créme Brûlée and just a few other snacking options (as you can see)!!

  
• How about corn dog nuggets from Casey’s corner in the Magic Kingdom? So yummy!

• Some snacks are FREE! Yep, if you are enjoying Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you will get to sample some pretty awesome snacks, for FREE!

• A few of you liked Walt Disney World’s Funnel Cakes and honestly, this is my personal number one! I love the Funnel Cakes from Sleepy Hollow Refreshments at the Magic Kingdom.

• Sushi is a great snack, too! This little jewel is from the Katsura Grill in Epcot’s Japan Pavilion!

• Lemon Slushes are a “must” in my family and obviously in some of yours too! Very refreshing! You can find our favorite at Cheshire Cafe in Magic Kingdom.

• Mickey Shaped Rice Krispie Treats can be found all over Walt Disney World or Disneyland. If you are at Walt Disney World look at your Disney resort, I always find mine there!

• Starbucks made the snack list and why shouldn’t it? Starbucks is my Disney fuel for sure! We LOVE to get gift cards and use them here!
• Almost everyone who has ever gone to any of the Disney Parks has eaten Mickey waffles and love them! Rightfully so, who wouldn’t love to eat waffles in the shape of Mickey Mouse topped with syrup? Yum!

• Mickey Bars came in on top for sure! Everyone loves these famous chocolate coated ice cream bars! I mean seriously, HOW can you go wrong with chocolate AND ice cream?!

• We will NOT leave out one of the best snacks in Disney World! That is the Cake Pop…these little lumptious goodies are found in several places, but the best place is at the Main Street Confectionery at the Magic Kingdom Park.

• This last one came in very close! Churros!!

Number 1 Snack in Disney World

Without further ado, the number one snack at Disney Parks is the Dole Whip, by far! This tropical treat won by a landslide! No matter how you like your dole whip…. with or without Rum. It is a classic to Disney and Disney lovers from all over and WE love them! At special events, such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you may even find specialty,  “whips”!

Tips for Your Trip

• Many of you said that you saved your Snack Credits for the end of the trip and cashed them in just before your adventure home. (Good tip!)
• Some snacks are large enough to share-not that I always recommend sharing!! Sometimes I am greedy with my snacks!
• Not all snacks shown here are on the Disney Dining Plans.

So there you have it! 20 snacks you can’t live without! Which snacks will you be trying on your next Disney vacation? Which ones are your “must have/go to” snacks?

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

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My kids beg to see this hilarious and lively musical show on every trip to the World! You will spend 2 hours watching a rip-roaring “hootenanny” that includes the best of the “Wild West” and Vaudeville comedy. Not to mention, some of the best food that Disney World offers. Hoop-Dee-Doo should definitely be on your “DO NOT MISS” list.

We are going to give you the “lowdown” on this “showdown” that begins at “sundown”!!

Getting There and What to Expect

Seating begins immediately when doors open at 4:00 PM, 6:15 PM and 8:30 PM, and the show begins 20 minutes later. The show is located in Pioneer Hall at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. You will need to allow for extra time if traveling by Disney’s transportation service, which I do recommend. The best way to get there is by going to Magic Kingdom and then catch a bus or boat to Fort Wilderness-not a big deal at all!  Allow for plenty of time to look inside at the awesome gift shop with lots of one-of-a-kind goodies! You may want to check out the campground area as well. There is a lot to explore and see!

PLEASE COME HUNGRY!

You will not hear me say this but once…but, do NOT stop on the way for a cake pop or rice krispy treat!! I understand this will be hard, but you will thank me later.  Trust me!

At the Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue, you will be served an ALL-YOU-CARE-TO-ENJOY family style buffet. “Family Style” means that your server will bring everything to your table-no need to get up. You wouldn’t want to miss the show, now would you? Your feast begins with fresh baked cornbread and the best butter this side of the cow pasture. Then, BUCKETS, yes, I said buckets…of fried chicken and smoked BBQ pork ribs.

You will also feast on yummy sides such as a tossed green salad, corn on the cob and baked beans. Then, the real treat comes. Homemade Strawberry Shortcake! Again, let me stress this: ALL YOU CARE TO ENJOY. Just politely ask your server for more if you like it as much as my family does.   Friends, this is a down-home, country feast better than Sunday dinner at Grandma’s.  

This is also one of the few restaurants that your alcoholic beverages ARE INCLUDED! Draft beer, wine and Sangria are available at no extra charge…to those cowboys and cowgirls who are 21 years of age or older, of course. For those that are not quite old enough for the adult beverages, don’t worry! There will be plenty of tea, milk and soft drinks.

Dinner AND a Show

While you are dining on this fabulous feast, the hilarious Claire de Lune, Johnny Ringo, Dolly Drew, Six Bits Slocum, Flora Long and Jim Handy will hit the stage to entertain you. So be prepared to stomp your feet, clap, and hoot and holler right along with them. If you have a special celebration, please let them know. Acknowledgements are made during the show! How cool is that?

Know Before You Go

There are a few things you need to know before you go, just so you don’t get thrown into the jail!

➽If you are on the Disney Dining Plan, this will be 2 table service credits and you will be seated in Category 2 or 3.

➽If you are paying out of pocket, prepayment is required. Prices DO include taxes AND gratuity. You will need to make a reservation, it does fill up fast. There are 3 categories in the seating arrangements. I have to say that there is not a bad seat here. There are HUGE tables to accommodate larger parties, so everyone gets a great view. Plus, the performers are extremely interactive!

Please be aware that seating in Category 3 is upstairs on the balcony and there is not an elevator.

Category 1        Category 2          Category 3

Ages 10-Older           $72                        $67                          $64

Ages 3-9                     $43                         $39                          $38

➽This restaurant can accommodate special dietary needs. Be sure to mention any special needs when booking, or let your Disney Travel Planner know in advance.

➽Wheelchair and EVC’s will be seated in Category 1 sections.

➽Reservations are HIGHLY recommended. You may make reservations through your Disney Travel Planner or by calling 1-407-WDW-DINE. If you are staying in a Walt Disney World Resort, reservations are available to make 180 days prior to your stay!

➽Bring the ENTIRE family! Everyone from grandma to your toddler will have a great time. They even bring the ol’ wash boards out! The louder you are, the better.

YEE-HAW Partners…I hope you have enjoyed this review of the REVUE! As always, Disney provides great entertainment and great food that go hand in hand!

I hope to see you soon at THE HOOP DEE DOO REVUE!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: Hoop Dee Doo Revue via photopin (license)

photo credit: Hoop Dee Doo Revue via photopin (license)

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During the early stages of planning a Walt Disney World trip, most people will consider a crucial question, “Should we stay on Walt Disney World property?”  Most families consider this question because they know that there are cheaper options in the Orlando area, and let’s face it…we are all looking for ways to save money and still have a magical vacation.  However, sometimes saving money isn’t the only thing we should consider, especially when booking a Walt Disney World vacation.  Walt Disney World is known for providing magical experiences to all guests, but the enchantment is extended when you choose to stay on property at one of the twenty-eight Disney owned resorts and villas.  Let’s explore the Top 10 Reasons YOU Should Stay On Property at Walt Disney World.

#10. The Magical Express

The moment Walt Disney World resort guests step off the plane, they are treated to some Disney magic.  At the Orlando International Airport, a motorcoach awaits to whisk guests to their hotel.  Resort guests don’t need to bother with baggage claim because Disney has thought of that too.  Bags are delivered to the resort rooms within a few hours so that guests can check in and get right to the fun at the parks or savor a delicious meal at one of the numerous locations on property.  Not only having a motorcoach pick you up at the airport convenient, it is also a big money saver.  Based on the taxi fare estimator tool on www.mearstransportation.com, Disney’s Magical Express can save you over $120 on taxi fares to and from the airport.

#9. Complimentary Magic Bands

Every guest that stays on property receives a free magic band that will work as their room key.  The complimentary magic band also works as your tickets into the theme parks, and the bands are linked to your FastPass+ selections.  If you stay on property, you also have the option of linking a credit or debit card to your Magic Band to make purchases and dining charges more convenient.  You can still purchase a Magic Band if you are not staying on property, but they come at a hefty price.  Each band will set your family back $12.95, which for a family of four can add up to well over $50.

#8. Package Delivery

All Walt Disney World guests can have their in-park purchases sent to the front gate for pick-up as they leave.  However, guests staying at Walt Disney World Resorts receive an additional perk; souvenir purchases can be sent directly to a guest’s hotel.  This perk can be a lifesaver when you are dragging tired, grouchy children (and adults) out of the parks at the end of a magical, yet long day of touring.

#7. Early Access to Fast Pass+

That’s right. If you are staying in a Disney World Resort, you will get early access to your fast pass planning. A full 30 days BEFORE guests staying off-site. 60 days before your vacation begins, you are able to make fast passes in advance. This is a HUGE perk!

#6. Disney Dining Plan

Walt Disney World offers several dining plans to meet any family’s needs, but you can only purchase this plan if you are staying at one of the Disney World resorts.  Some families don’t purchase the dining plan because even the smallest plan includes a lot of food, but most families really like it for the convenience of being able to prepay for meals.  There are numerous on-site options for dining and every hotel has a food court or quick service option.  On-site guests who add the dining plan also receive a resort refillable mug that can be refilled at the resort all day with soda, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.  If convenience is key to enjoying your vacation, then the dining plan is a perfect add-on to make resort stays even better.

#5. Proximity to the Parks

If you choose to drive to the parks, being close can be a huge benefit to your budget and sanity.  Most resorts are mere minutes away from the parks, whereas many of the off property locations will require at least a fifteen to twenty-minute commute.  Minimal travel time between your hotel and the theme parks is also helpful when you have young children or elderly family members who may need a mid-day nap to stay fresh and upbeat.  Even better, if you choose to stay in one of the deluxe resorts on property, you could walk to a theme park in the amount of time most off property guests spend just getting into the parking lot.

#4.  Complimentary Transportation

If you are like most adults, driving in a city you are not familiar with is not your idea of fun.  Luckily, Walt Disney World resort guests never have to worry about getting behind the wheel during their stay.  Transportation is offered to and from every resort and theme park on-site. Complimentary transportation can be a big time saver when visiting the Magic Kingdom; if you are staying off site you have to park at the Ticket and Transportation Center and then take the monorail or ferry over to the entrance.  Resort guests simply take a bus or monorail straight to the entrance, which can save upwards of thirty minutes on a busy day.

Walt Disney World resort drivers are all well-trained, and a lot of them are even entertaining.  It is not uncommon to hear stories of bus drivers making guests feel special on a birthday or other occasion.  One friend’s experience always comes to mind when I think about bus drivers making this service extraordinary.  My friend had planned a very special dinner at Cinderella’s Castle and her daughter was dressed in her favorite Cinderella costume and accessories.  As they boarded the bus, the bus driver made a huge deal over the young lady and even got over the bus intercom system and announced that they had a very special guest on board.  He asked that all guests be on their very best behavior as they were all in the presence of a true Disney princess.  Two years later, the child still gushes over how a bus driver thought she was a real princess and the mother tells that particular story to others with tears in her eyes.

#3.  No Hidden Resort Fees 

Many resorts and hotels in the Orlando area have hidden resort that are not disclosed in their advertised prices.  In contrast, Disney World includes all fees in their advertised resort prices, even taxes.  My husband and I once arrived in Orlando a day early, and instead of calling to see if Disney had any rooms available, we booked a four star resort for $60 on one of the name your own price websites.  We thought we were getting a steal, but after we paid the resort fee, the parking fee, and the taxes, that $60 turned into $103 for one night.  We could have stayed at a value resort for just a few dollars more and enjoyed extra magic hours and other insider perks. As of March 21, 2018, Disney World will begin charging parking fees.

#2.  Extra Magic Hours

One of the most well-known and well-loved perks that Walt Disney World provides to resort guests is Extra Magic Hours.  Guests who have magic bands linked to an on-site resort are treated to an additional hour before parks open or after they close.  Disney usually offers one early morning EMH at one of the parks and sometimes provides an evening EMH at a different park.  The evening extra magic hours are the real bonus for those families who can stay up late; instead of a single hour before the park opens to the public in the morning, Disney typically provides an additional two hours for park touring at night.  If you are going at a very busy time of the year, Extra Morning Hours can help your family see twice as much as they could without the bonus.

#1. Disney Magic

The #1 reason to stay on property is something you simply can’t put a price tag on.  Some people call it pixie dust, some call it Disney magic, but those who have worked in the service industry recognize it for what it truly is,  the best customer service you will likely ever encounter on a vacation.  Let’s face it, the reason most people come back to Walt Disney World is because of the way the cast members make visitors feel.  From greeting you like an old friend when you arrive at your resort, to keeping the parks spick and span, these cast members go above and beyond to ensure that each person who steps foot on Disney property is treated as though they are the only guest there.  When you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort, you don’t ever have to leave that magical bubble where happy thoughts and pixie dust keeps each day of your vacation magical and special.

So, those are my top 10 reasons for staying on property at Walt Disney World in Florida.  Do you agree that staying on-site is worth the money?  We at Walt Express would love to hear how your last trip to a Disney destination was magical, whether because of an on-site resort stay or some other experience.  Until next time, we hope that your days are filled with faith, trust and pixie dust.

Updated 4/16/2018

~Grace

If you would like a quote for your next magical Disney vacation go HERE

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Best Restaurants for 1st Timers at Disney World

We chose these specific dining experiences because they are in the parks, and easier to get to for 1st time visitors to Disney World. These are also all character dining experiences, meaning you can dine AND meet characters-saving lots of time (while dining on a delicious meal)!  Read up on our choices for Best Restaurants for 1st Timers at Disney World. Each one is unique to Walt Disney World and will add a little magic to your vacation.

Tusker House in Animal Kingdom

Tusker House is an amazing experience! You will not find Safari Mickey and his friends anywhere else. The food is quite delicious, all served on a buffet. For a complete review, click: TUSKER HOUSE.

One table service credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot

Do you have a princess lover going with you to Disney World? Well if you do, this is the place for you! Askershus is located in the Norway pavilion of Epcot and is a fabulous fairy-tale dining experience. Why wait in lines to see all of your favorite princesses when you can take a pic with them while you dine. This is always a must do with any princess fan, you will not be sorry! Make sure to check out the menu before you go!

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Garden Grill in Epcot

This one is pretty unique, just because you will dine with Farmer Mickey and his friends. You will be served your meals “family style”, which simply means no trekking back and forth to the buffet line. It’s all you care to enjoy, and the servers will gladly bring you all that you can handle! A win win!! For more info on this dining experience, simply click: GARDEN GRILL.

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Hollywood and Vine Seasonal Dine in Hollywood Studios

Every day for lunch and dinner, you will find Minnie Mouse in her “seasonal attire”, waiting for your arrival! This delicious buffet meal will have all of your favorites, including a children’s buffet! Perfect for picky eaters. SEASONAL DINE.

One table service dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan.

Be Our Guest in Magic Kingdom

Now, Be Our Guest is a little difference experience. This restaurant is the number 1, most popular restaurant in all of Disney World. With that being said, it books up extremely quickly. There are actually three ways to enjoy this magnificent restaurant.

Breakfast and lunch are both considered quick service meals, even though they do require a reservation. This is the ONLY restaurant that requires a reservation for a quick service meal. You also have the option to pre-order your meals for breakfast or lunch 30 days prior. When you are checked in and seated, your food will “magically” appear!

At dinner, you will have the traditional service, as in a server for your table. Sometimes, the Beast will greet his guests! This is an extra special treat is not guaranteed, though!

• Breakfast-One Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
• Lunch-One Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan
• Lunch-One Table Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan

Okay so there you have it! These are my opinions on the best restaurants for first-timers! Now it’s your turn; which restaurants would you add?

Tips:

• Don’t try to incorporate all of these restaurants into your plans on the first trip.  It’s impossible to do everything in one trip. Pick a few you think you can’t live without and go from there. 
• Be sure to bring autograph books and a camera to character meals!
• KNOW before you go! Here’s the scoop on the DISNEY DINING PLANS!

Join our Facebook group, DISNEY EXPRESS LANE, and let us know about your first dining experience!!

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