! 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!

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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

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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.

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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!

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

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

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If you’re a frequent Walt Disney World visitor, there is a restaurant that you prefer to dine at over and over again. Whether it be because of the food, the atmosphere or the character experiences, something draws you to reserve your seats 180 days in advance. For my family, Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is that restaurant. Akershus is located in the Norway Pavilion in Epcot’s World Showcase. They offer breakfast, lunch and dinner – all of which has a variety of your favorite princesses to meet and greet.

Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: A Disney World Dining Review

The Menu and Our Experience

The breakfast includes your typical American dishes like eggs, warm meats, and pastries; as well as Norwegian breakfast items. The lunch and dinner has dishes that channel its Norwegian roots and provides an intensity of flavor that I find are unmatched.

During our last visit to the Mouse House in May, we decided to have lunch at Akershus for my daughter’s 5th birthday celebration. My mom and I both ordered the oven roasted chicken breast on a bed of sauteed garden vegetables, fingerling potatoes, and a red pepper puree. I had never tasted red pepper puree, and I was quite worried that my palate would disagree with it. After my mom took a bite and confirmed it’s deliciousity (that’s not a word, but it sounds much more appropriate than deliciousness), I cut off a fork full of perfectly cooked chicken breast and dipped it into the red pepper puree. The resulting reaction was like realizing that I have a purpose in life, and for that moment, that purpose was to eat every last bite of my oven roasted chicken breast. Minus the bones, of course. I also thoroughly enjoyed the fingerling potatoes, although I wasn’t a fan of the garden veggies. No fault of Disney’s, as I’m a picky eater that turns her nose up at all things green.

In addition to the oven roasted chicken breast, guests can order between pan-seared salmon, traditional Kjøttkake, stuffed pasta, braised pork shank and several other authentic Norwegian offerings. As you can see, Akershus offers a nice variety of entrees that you don’t normally find at other table service restaurants.

The kid’s menu, unfortunately, does not offer as many choices. Kids can choose between cheese pizza, meatballs, and elbow macaroni. My daughter decided upon the pizza, like she normally does. She goes crazy over Disney pizza.

Update

Disney has now added the “kid check meals” to this menu. Akershus includes the following items for children:

• Grilled Chicken Breast
• Junior Beef
• Salmon

Just Desserts

For dessert, we were given this platter of Norwegian goodies. My taste buds drooled over the sweet and savory chocolate mousse, while my daughter scarfed down the traditional ice cream topped with strawberry sauce. Unfortunately, none of us cared for the apple cake with cardamom whipped cream.

Like I mentioned earlier in this article, we were there to celebrate my daughter’s 5th year of being a part of our lives. We had a FANTASTIC waitress named Anna who not only delivered a cupcake with a lit candle, but a birthday card signed by all the princesses and herself (in Norwegian). Anna also sang Happy Birthday in Norwegian. How cool is that?! Anna went above and beyond all expectations, and she deserves every good thing that comes into her life. I’m so glad that I managed to catch that moment on video!

The Character Experience

When you first enter the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, you are guided to a line where you meet Princess Belle from Beauty and the Beast (my favorite). The photo is available through PhotoPass/Memory Maker.

One of the princesses that makes their way to your table is the beautiful Princess Aurora from the classic Disney film Sleeping Beauty.

Next, Ariel flipped her fins (well, she traded those in for human legs) over to our table, where she filled the atmosphere with her bubbly personality. She probably spent the most time with my daughter compared to the other princesses.

Cinderella also graced us with her kind presence. This would be the first of three separate times we saw Cinderella during our stay!

Last, but not least, we met the princess that started it all – Snow White.

While these are the usual princesses who are scheduled to appear at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, other characters may show up, like Mulan, Jasmine, and Mary Poppins!

A Few Tips

• Akershus is one table service credit on the Disney Dining Plans.
• Reservations are highly recommended.
• Admission to Epcot is required.
• Some of the dining experience is offered on a buffet, while the “main entree” will be family style-at your table.

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

Thank you Amber from Beautifully Bella Faith for giving us some awesome tips! 

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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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Video: Chef Mickey’s: A Disney World Dining Review

Chef Mickey’s has been the quintessential favorite for character meals since it opened its doors at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in 1996. Its history and convenient location just outside of Magic Kingdom make it a must do for so many families. Add in the fantastic character lineup and it’s easy to see why this reservation is always a tough one to snag.

The Characters

As mentioned above, the character lineup is the real star of the show at this dining reservation. This is the ONLY restaurant on property where you can meet the Fab Five. You will be able to meet Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto at any meal you reserve at Chef Mickey’s. You can choose from breakfast, lunch and dinner. Some restaurants only have characters for breakfast and sometimes lunch, but Chef Mickey’s has the Fab Five at every meal! The characters are known as the Fab Five because they are the five characters that were featured most in the classic Mickey Mouse cartoons.

My family thinks that Chef Mickey’s is a win-win, because we get a meal and tons of autographs all at one time! It’s a huge time saver to meet so many classic characters during a meal. For us, that means our children can get autographs and pictures with the characters here and we can spend park time meeting other characters and enjoying the attractions and rides. The only downfall with the characters at Chef Mickey’s is that sometimes the one-on-one interaction feels a bit rushed. This is the case at several character meals, so if you are really wanting to spend quality time interacting with characters, you might want to choose a traditional meet and greet instead of a character meal. However, this meal is not short on fun!

Celebrate Good Times

You definitely want to have your party attitude on tap for this restaurant. Go in ready for lots of fun at Chef Mickey’s. You will be surrounded by singing, laughing, and lots of children and adults clamoring to love on the fantastic characters. There are tons of fun littles touches throughout the meal. My favorite is when they play “Celebrate with Mickey Mouse” and everyone twirls their napkins, as I captured in the video above. Sometimes the characters even do a parade around the restaurant and invite everyone to twirl their napkins too. This is so much fun and it reminds me of dining in Italy years ago with my mother, where napkin twirling was quite the tradition.

Chef Mickey’s is a fantastic place to celebrate birthdays and special occasions too. The waiters and waitresses do a great job of trying to make the meal extra special if they know you are celebrating ahead of time. We always call in before our trip and have it added to our reservation. This is easy to do yourself or if you are using a travel planner, ask them to do it for you. Sometimes you might receive a special birthday card or cupcake and even a little extra fanfare. The last two visits, our waitress brought over our cupcakes and had the characters stop by for an extra birthday hug. Now that’s what you call magical!

The Food

If you have read our reviews before, you know that we are honest about what we experience. With that being said, let’s just say that Chef Mickey isn’t likely going to win a Michelin Star for the menus he creates for this restaurant. Chef Mickey’s is a buffet, so expect buffet style food. Keeping that in mind, we actually like the food (notice I did not say love). There are plenty of great kid choices and several dishes the adults in our group always enjoy too. But seriously, don’t go to a buffet at Walt Disney World expecting anything to blow your mind and tastebuds away. However, don’t let that discourage you. Let’s talk about which foods we think are worth a second helping.

At breakfast, my kids eat enough bacon to pay for their portion of the meal. Seriously, have you bought bacon recently? That stuff is getting super expensive. They also enjoy the sausage and fresh fruit. But what they really get excited about (other than meeting characters) is the Mickey waffles! Ahhhh! You can almost hear angels singing when you take that first bite of a Mickey waffle. They are a delicious blend of malty, carby goodness that melts in your mouth with the warm, sweet syrup. The adults also like the cheesy potato casserole, ham and cheese frittata, and the cheese and berry blintzes. Brunch isn’t much different, but the offerings there combine both breakfast and some of dinner (so keep reading). For dinner, try the all you can eat peel and eat shrimp. Also, the carving station has some pretty yummy offerings. For the kiddos, the chicken nuggets and mac and cheese are always a big hit. No matter which meal you reserve, don’t skip dessert. Desserts are hard to mess up and Chef Mickey’s does a nice job with lots of yummy choices that will make your sweet tooth happy, happy, happy.

Tips

• If you don’t feel like waiting on the monorail, you can quickly walk to Disney’s Contemporary resort from Magic Kingdom.
• If your feet are tired, take the monorail to Chef Mickey’s.
• Chef Mickey’s is LOUD! If you or your children do not do well with loud restaurants, avoid this one.
• This restaurant accepts most Disney Dining Plans and would make a great addition to your magical vacation! Go HERE for more information on this fabulous restaurant!

What did you think of the Chef Mickey’s? Does it earn its ears for being the most popular character meal on property? Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to tell us what you think about Chef Mickey’s and to discuss other Disney related topics.

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Whispering Canyon Cafe: A Disney Dining Review

Round up those cowboys and cowgirls (or wild Indians in our case), because it’s time for dinner. No matter who you’ve been wrangling all over the parks, you will love knowing that dinner is ready at Whispering Canyon Cafe. Why, you might ask? Well, because A)You don’t need to cook or clean, because you are on vacation! B) Whispering Canyon Cafe has something to keep everyone happy. From sassy servers to hobby horse races, you are sure to smile quite a bit before your food even arrives.

The Wild West at Its Best

Whispering Canyon Cafe is nestled in the corner of the majestic lobby of the Wilderness Lodge Resort. It’s open air feel and rough-hewn log decor really makes the restaurant feel like a quaint cafe out west. The tables are all glowing, natural wood and the chairs are painted with various depictions of cowboys and Indians. You can make an Advanced Dining Reservation (ADR) for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

When you walk up the stairs to the check-in counter, you will be welcomed with hearty howdy do. There is usually a wait, so grab the standard restaurant pager and pull up a seat around the fire or one of the comfy couches around the lobby. If you have little ones, head over to the Lincoln logs station just across from the check in area. Here the kiddos can build houses and villages to their hearts content. While you are waiting, pay close attention to the antics inside. This will be important later.

Jump In and Play

Once you are seated, you will need to decide if you want to play or observe. If you paid attention during the wait, you know that playing is fun, hilarious, and sometimes a bit embarrassing. Hey, you only live once and embarrassing also means really funny in a few more years. Disney has devised a way to opt out though, so pay attention you wallflowers. If your whole table does NOT want to play, flip the coaster on your table over to the red side that says, “I’m boring.”…Just kidding. It says, “Watch From the Fence” and has a red ring around the edge.  If you are in for a good time, flip the coaster over to the Jump In and Play side that is edged in green.

I highly recommend that you play, but if you want to be a stick in the mud I suppose I can’t stop you. If you play, get ready to be mildly harassed by your server all in the name of fun. I’ve witnessed anything from making it rain straws when my son kindly requested the straws she forgot (our oldest son still giggles over that) to being made to stand up and sing I’m a Little Teapot.There are also hobby horse races, singing, and a good helping of silliness. The antics are hilarious and the whole family is sure to get a laugh out of this.

The Fixins

Now some of you may be like my husband; you love a good laugh, but you LURVE a great meal even more. Well, I promise that Whispering Canyon Cafe is not going to let you down in the food department either.

First of all, get the bottomless milkshake. They are delicious and the server will refill it as long as your behind is parked in your chair. Second, if you are packing an appetite from the 10+ miles you walked, then order the All-You-Care-To-Enjoy Skillet. I’ve never seen so much food! My husband ordered this and it came with salad, cornbread, pulled pork, ribs, roasted chicken, oak-smoked beef, and sausage. Not to mention the veggies, potatoes, baked beans and corn on the cob! Do note that you can not share this skillet though. If you aren’t quite that hungry, I recommend the New York Strip with blue cheese butter (ask for extra of that butter!).

Oh wait, you know I can’t quit there. We need to talk sweets! Ok, here is the low down at WCC for dessert time. The cheesecake is meh, the cobbler is pretty darn good, but the gooey cake. Mmmmmm, that thing is yummy! If you are a Kitchen Sink or Mickey Pants Sundae fan, then you should try the newly added 10 Gallon Challenge. The menu describes it as follows: “A Canyon Cowboy Hat filled with scoops of Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, and Mint Chocolate-Chip Ice Cream smothered in very topping from the chuck wagon including Chocolate-covered Bacon (serves four).”

Tips

• If you don’t have a car, you will need to take your resort transportation to Magic Kingdom and then board a bus or ride the boat to Wilderness Lodge to eat at Whispering Canyon Cafe. You can also use Uber or a taxi.
• The boat to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge from Magic Kingdom is the most relaxing option. It’s a wonderful and relaxing way to arrive at your destination.
• Take time before or after your reservation to explore Wilderness Lodge. It is a beautiful and serene resort, especially at Christmastime.
• Whispering Canyon Cafe is LOUD! If you or your children do not do well with loud restaurants, avoid this one.
• This restaurant accepts most Disney Dining Plans and would make a great addition to your magical vacation! Go HERE for more information on this fabulous restaurant!

What did you think of the Whispering Canyon Cafe? If you chose to play, tell us about your funniest interaction. Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to tell us all about it and to discuss other Disney related topics.

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Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: A Disney World Resort

Ahhhhh, the Great Northwest! It’s known for it’s majesty, beauty and the National Parks. While Disney World is host to a much different kind of park, the beautiful minds at Disney found a way to bring the Northwest home to Florida. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge captures the beauty, majesty, and rustic charm of a turn-of-the-century lodge perfectly. When you pull up, you will automatically feel like you have been transported out of the swampy Orlando area and into the beautiful Pacific Northwest. You will be welcomed home and invited into a gorgeous and grand lobby that rivals any you have ever seen. The smell alone is enough to bring you back every time you visit. It’s the smell of crisp pine and warm, cozy fireplaces. Welcome home to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Now let’s explore all this deluxe resort has to offer.

***Please note that at this time and through 2017, Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is under construction. Many of the activities and recreation features mentioned in this article might not be available if you book your trip during this time frame. Consult https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/wilderness-lodge-resort/ or ask your vacation planner for more details before booking this resort.***

Accommodations and Room Types

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort is one of the resorts in the Magic Kingdom resort area, but it is not a monorail resort. It is considered a Magic Kingdom resort because of it’s location on Bay Lake. This resort has 727 guest rooms on property.

There are 3 different room types, similar to the other Disney Resorts. Standard View, Woods View, and Courtyard View. The price of the room depends on your view, with the least expensive option being the Standard and the most expensive being the Courtyard (bunk beds will cost you even more). Whether or not the view is worth the price is up to each individual.

Most of the rooms at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort rooms are 344 square feet and will accommodate 4 people to each room. Most rooms have either two queen size beds or one queen size bed and a set of bunk beds. Each room comes equipped with an alarm clock with mp3 player, mini fridge, ceiling fan, coffee maker with tea and coffee setup, ice bucket, safe, iron and ironing board, a small desk with outlets and two chairs, telephone, television, and hair dryer. Please note that if you have more than three hairs on your head, that the hair dryer is crap. Walt Express recommends bringing your own or sporting the ever popular Disney Ears, hat or headband. Also, if you need a lot of room to work, you will likely be using a bed to spread out on, because the desk/table here is very small.

Now if you are really ready to lap it up in luxury you can book one of the Club Level Rooms which will give you separate lounges and check-in, complimentary food and drinks, turn down service, just to name a few of the perks when you choose this option.

Transportation

Although Wilderness Lodge is a Magic Kingdom area resort, it is not on the monorail. Instead, it is accessible by boat or bus from the Magic Kingdom. This small bit of extra distance to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is the reason that it always seems so peaceful. Guests consider it quite the respite from the business of the parks. Here are the modes of transportation you can expect to the parks at this resort:

• Magic Kingdom: Friendship boat, bus or car ride

• Epcot: Bus, car ride, or take the boat to Magic Kingdom and get on the monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and then change to the EPCOT monorail

• Animal Kingdom: Bus or car ride

• Hollywood Studios: Boat, bus or car ride

Dining Options

Artist Point

Artist Point is the signature dining experience nestled within the resort. Enjoy the panoramic view of Bay Lake while savoring the flavors of the Pacific Northwest. The menu is inspired by seasonal ingredients and the focus is on “farm to fork” experiences. Favorite dishes include Smoked Portobello Bisque, Roasted Fall Squash Soup and Chinook Cedar Plan Salmon. You can also enjoy one of over 130 wine selections from their award-winning wine list. As at most signature restaurants located within Disney World resorts, there is a dress code. Tank tops, swimsuits, swimsuit coverups, cutoff, torn clothing, and attire with offensive language or graphics will not be permitted.

Whispering Canyon

This table service restaurant is one of the most entertaining and fun-loving restaurants you will visit at Walt Disney World. The waitstaff here is friendly and they love to kid around and sass the customers. Expect sing-alongs, hobby horse races for the kids, and plenty of laughs at each other’s expense. I recommend the ribs or the bottomless platter and the bottomless milkshake can’t be beat. Oh, and don’t forget to ask for ketchup. To read our dining review of this restaurant, click HERE.

Roaring Fork

Roaring Fork is the quick service location at Wilderness Lodge. Although it is very small in comparison to food courts, it has a vast array of choices. No matter how picky your group may be, Roaring Fork will have something to ease the hunger pains that come with walking ten+ miles a day. The roast beef and bleu sandwich is by far the best entree choice, but you really can’t miss the magic bars and specialty cupcakes for dessert. My personal favorites are the S’mores and strawberry lemonade flavors. This is also the area where you will pick up your resort refillable mug if you have the Disney Dining Plan.

Trout Pass Pool Bar

Trout Pass Pool Bar is located in a small log cabin near the pool and provides a variety of drinks to keep you refreshed poolside. They offer beer, wine, sangria, as well as a handful of speciality mixed drinks and frozen concoctions. They also offer non alcoholic lemonade, smoothies, and coconut water.

Territory Lounge

This lounge is located just off the main lobby. It’s a cozy bar area with additional tables and chairs set up as well as a few comfy couches and a fireplace where you can cozy up to specialty drinks, coffees, and cocktails. There is a nice selection of beer and Pacific Northwest wines as well as a unique blend of appetizers. Choices include items like charcuterie boards, burgers, wings, and flatbread. You can also find the delicious Smoked Portobello Bisque which is also served at Artist Point.

Room Service

Room service is available for breakfast and dinner. You can order breakfast between 6:30 and 11:30am and dinner from 4:00pm until Midnight. Ask the front desk for a menu or call from the phone in your room.

Recreation

This resort has more than it’s fair share of recreation activities. The Silver Creek Springs Pool is the main pool and it is a great pool for the youngest swimmers. The slide is very child-friendly and the pool is fairly large. There are also two hot tubs located near the main pool and there is a kiddie pool and splash pad nearby. Life jackets are available poolside at no cost as long as they are returned. Complimentary towels are also provided for guests at the pool. Don’t forget to wear your MagicBand to the pool, because you will need it to enter the gates to the pool and splash pad area.

For those of you who prefer to swim without worrying if small children will learn to perfect their cannonball mere inches from your nose, you may find the quiet pool area more relaxing. The quiet pool can be located in the Boulder Ridge Villas area.

Along with the pools, you can find bike rentals, motorized boat rentals, and book fishing excursions. Movies Under the Stars and campfire activities are also offered. A list of movies and the schedule for the activities can be requested from the front desk. There are also jogging and walking trails on property as well. Don’t forget to stop by Sturdy Branches, the health club and spa.

Does this resort sound like it could be your next home away from home? Have you stayed at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge before? Discuss the Wilderness Lodge and all of your thoughts in our Facebook group Disney Express Lane.

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