Walt Disney World – Page 3 – Doug Travels Orlando

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Disney Springs

Published on August 12, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant has been at Disney Springs for many years, but I recently had the opportunity to visit this dining and entertainment venue again. With new menu items and entertainment since my last visit, it was like a whole new experience!

We started with adult beverages at just one of the 4 bars. With a fun assortment of themed cocktails and a wide offering of Irish, European and American beers, including local and craft varieties, there is something for every taste.

Following our “cocktail hour” we were seated for our reservation. The menu offers traditional Irish options—from Atlantic fish & chips to classics like Shepherd’s Pie—as well as several not-so-Irish options.

We enjoyed wings and scallops to start and our main dishes were traditional Irish options of fish & chips and shepherd’s pie as well as a not-so-traditional Red quinoa and white bean burger with Smokey Bacon and Almond-roasted Brussels Sprouts.

And, of course, dessert is a must… The Chef’s Dessert Flight offered a small taste of everything delicious!

Entertainment is offered daily from 4:30 pm until 1 am. There is a main stage and a patio stage with live music, dance shows and bands.

The Rhythms of Raglan Dance Show is the all-new entertainment featuring 90-minutes of live Irish music and dance presented by a talented mix of performers.

And, during each performance, kids are invited to join the dancers on stage and even receive a signed certificate of achievement.

We enjoyed a very entertaining and fun evening as well as great food and drinks! Reservations are accepted starting at 180 days but walk-ups are welcome as well, based on availability. Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant also offers a Saturday and Sunday Brunch.

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STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Published on August 6, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

STK Orlando at Disney Springs opened its doors May 25, 2016 but I was just able to experience it for the first time.

STK Orlando is an interesting place… The outside style reminds me of The Hangar Bar or The Edison – more industrial brick and beams with a casual feel – and the front patio would be a relaxing spot to people watch.

Once you step inside you feel as if you are about to enjoy an intimate dining experience – it’s dark with pops of light with a warm inviting feeling.

However, the experience is anything but intimate due to the very loud nonstop music – top 40 tunes and classics from decades past. While the music choice was to my liking, the volume was not conducive for an intimate experience and gave it a more club like vibe rather than a signature dining experience feel as we are accustomed to with Disney (think California Grill or Flying Fish). It was a challenge to have a conversation with our dinner partners and a bit hard to even hear what our server was saying at times.

Regardless of the ‘club vibe’, the food lived up to the reviews and our expectations as did the service! Something to remember before you go, the menu is à la carte but a delicious bread service is included.

We waited for our table in the lounge area and the bartender was very accommodating, answering our questions and offering tastings and her personal experience to help me choose a wine. The drink menu offers some interesting cocktails that I will need to go back and try another time and they carry a few Florida beers that my husband tried. They also offer a full wine list to choose from.

We enjoyed the Double Smoked Bacon – more like large chunks of fatty pork but very tasty once you cut the fat off (IMO) – for a starter as well as the Shaved Brussels Sprouts for a salad.

While STK is known for its steaks, they serve an amazing Scottish Salmon too. With your steaks you can choose various sauces and/or toppings (for an additional charge) and there are several delicious sides to compliment your protein as well. The sides are priced a bit on the high side, but they are large enough to share – the problem is that you want to try them all!

Dessert also did not disappoint, we ordered the Warm Baked Cookie with chocolate sauce, caramel and vanilla ice cream. Again, large enough to share.

STK Orlando currently offers a Social Hour, weekdays 3:30 – 6 pm, and Thursday – Saturday, 10 pm to close. In addition, you can reserve the venue, or parts of it, for private events. On the evening we were there we were not able to go to the rooftop dining area due to a private event.

While they do seat walk-up Guests, reservations are accepted and recommended. They currently accept reservations via your My Disney Experience account or Open Table. Some Dining Plans are accepted and this is a Signature Dining experience, requiring 2 Table Service Credits per person.

Overall, if you are looking for a fun place with great food and service that is geared more towards an adult experience rather than a family experience, I would recommend STK Orlando, just be prepared for the loud music and club vibe.

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Donut King

Published on August 1, 2018 in Florida Locales/Walt Disney World by Doug Wilcoxon

If you just pulled an all-nighter driving so that you can view the sun coming up over Disney World, and let’s say that it is still a bit early before sunrise, the family is asleep, and you arriving from the west. Well, you are in luck.

It happens that west of Disney, approximately 20 miles, in the town of Minneola, is a little non-descript donut shop called Donut King. Open 24 hours a day so that no sudden donut desire goes unanswered, it will fulfill all your glazed, iced, sprinkled, creme or jelly filled desires. Don’t be fooled by appearances, there is a big selection in this little building. I’ve found the selection best early in the morning. If you are there before the sun is up then that should qualify as early.

Recently, a “Hot Donuts Now” sign was placed in the window, but the wife has limited my intake so I haven’t been able to take advantage as the neon beckons me for a donut. She only has my best interest at heart.

If you are a family of four. A dozen should be good. If the family is awake, maybe two dozen.

I wasn’t on vacation but thought it might be nice to treat some co-workers to a random selection of tasty donuts. This is referred to as a Doug Dozen.

After the above picture, you may require directions.

This is my favorite Donut King donut. The Chocolate Cake. I like my donuts simple.

An overview of the selection. The bottom case selection varies.

There is more than just donuts at Donut King, so check out the menu if you are hungry.

Full disclosure…Donut King has not paid me for this post, though I wouldn’t say no to a chocolate cake donut.

Be Our Guest Restaurant – New Prix Fixe Menu

Published on July 30, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

On Friday, July 27, 2018 Be Our Guest Restaurant debuted its new prix fixe menu for dinner and I was there to experience it!

The new prix fixe, 3-course menu features French-inspired dishes and includes an appetizer, main entrée and a trio dessert as well as non-alcoholic beverages and bread service. Adult beverages may be purchased for an additional charge.

For our appetizers we chose the Maine Lobster Bisque and Assorted Meats and Artisanal Cheese Selection. Both were very good, and the meat and cheese tray was much better than the previous cheese plate they offered at dinner service.

While all of the new menu items sounded amazing, we chose the Spice-Dusted Lamb Chops and Saffron-Infused Seafood Bouillabaisse as our entrées. Both were delicious and prepared to perfection! I am looking forward to trying other entrée options available on the menu.

Dessert is an amazing trio served on a platter with a ‘stained glass’ overlay that is edible. Every single bite was oh so delicious – but I do love my desserts!

And, for everyone wanting to know… The Beast still receives Guests in the library following dinner but, as many have anticipated, Belle was not one of the new additions to this Signature Dining experience.

I highly recommend the new prix fixe menu, my only disappointment was that they no longer do the “rose” napkins…

For dinner service, Be Our Guest Restaurant is a Signature Dining experience which requires 2 Table Service Credits when using the Disney Dining Plan. Current pricing, when not using a Dining Plan, is $55.00 for adults ages 10+ and $35 for children ages 3-9, tax and gratuity are not included. Breakfast and Lunch are still Quick Service options but do require reservations as well.

And here’s a little tip – if you reserve your dinner about 1 ½ hours before ‘Happily Ever After’ you will be able to view the fireworks show from the bridge just as you are leaving the Beasts’ Castle! #wishtips

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Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs

Published on July 23, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante opened early January 2018 and started serving Sunday Brunch shortly before the Easter holiday. I was just able to enjoy my first experience at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante and I chose the Sunday Brunch.

The restaurant theming is set in an airline terminal from the 1930s. On arrival you “check-in” and are then escorted down a flight of stairs where the dining area is a large airy space with floor-to-ceiling views of Lake Buena Vista.

Flight memorabilia, including vintage maps and artifacts, are on display throughout the dining room to provide the aviation theme.

The Sunday Brunch includes Prix Fixe buffet selections for your starter, entree, and dessert. The Salami and Cheese Station was delicious as well as the Antipasti Station. Entrees included with your Sunday Brunch are Spaghetti alla Carbonara, New York Strip Steak and Eggs and Poached Hen Egg and Quinoa-Kale Salad in addition to a few other selections.
The dessert was a delicious chocolate fountain with fresh dried fruits and tasty sweets to cover with chocolate! You can also choose other breakfast/lunch menu items for an additional charge, including Endless Mimosas or Bellini for just $15.00!

The current (July 22, 2018) cost is $35 per adult and kids eat free.

If you are looking for a relaxed yet unique Sunday Brunch experience, Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante is a great experience. Advance reservations are highly recommended and can be made online or by calling (407) 939-3463. Same day seating without reservations was a one hour wait time on the day I experienced Sunday Brunch but we had no wait time at all with our confirmed reservation.

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2019 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Open June 19, 2018!

Published on June 8, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

Are you thinking about a 2019 Walt Disney World vacation?

NOW is the time to request your quote! Resort Packages open June 19, 2018!

Check out reviews from my clients that have booked through me >>> travel reviews

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UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Published on May 21, 2018 in Orlando/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The newest attraction at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, ‘UP! A Great Bird Adventure’, is located at the Caravan Stage in Asia, former home of Flights of Wonder, and debuted April 22nd for the 20th Anniversary celebration.

Similar to Flights of Wonder, this new show entertains with bird species from South America, North America, India, Africa, and other locations around the globe, but now also features Russell and Dug from ‘UP’.

During this 25-minute show you will join Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug for an all-new adventure as they discover bird species from around the world.

More than 15 different species of birds make an appearance, including parrots, toucans, macaws, and a marabou stork that flaunts a magnificent 10-foot wingspan!

‘UP! A Great Bird Adventure’ is now performing daily at Disney’s Animal Kingdom park and you can experience the show as standby or with FastPass+ access.

After the show, head on over to Discovery Island for a meet & greet with Russell and Dug!

*Park tickets required to experience this show.

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Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

Published on March 21, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

The Frozen Ever After Dessert Party was introduced at Walt Disney world last July and, while I always try to explore new experiences as soon as they are available, I was just able to experience this event for the first time!

This special ticketed event is sold separately, and theme park admission is required in addition to your party ticket. You can arrive for check-in at any time but it’s best to arrive early to get the most out of your party experience.

At check-in, you will receive a sparkly wristband [the MagicBand is mine] when you check-in and the “doors” officially open at 7:45 pm and tables are assigned so if you are a smaller party, like me and my husband, you will be seated with other Guests that you may not know.

Once seated you can partake of the food and beverage buffets set up throughout the reserved party area.

From fresh fruits and breads with cheese fondue to sweet treats specially designed with a ‘Frozen’ theme, the buffet also included warm pudding treats [with ice cream if you like] and fun Freeze Fried Salted Caramel Popcorn at the Nitro Station. In addition, there were specialty Frozen-themed beverages, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, as well as beer and wine.

Then, from the special VIP reserved viewing area we were able to get an amazing view of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth. It seemed as if the fireworks were right above our heads – and with our reserved seating, we were able to enjoy the fireworks display comfortably without anyone blocking our view. They even gave us all special viewing glasses that made the fireworks look like they had snowflakes around them – I wish I could have gotten a photo of that for you!!

After the fireworks ended, we were then escorted to the Frozen Ever After ride for a private, no waiting experience!

If you or your little ones love Frozen, I highly recommend this reserved experience.
Check My Disney Experience for more information or to reserve your experience online > Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

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Toy Story Land – Opening June 30, 2018

Published on March 14, 2018 in Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

This Summer, Get Ready to Play Big in a New Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios!

I was invited to a special industry showcase hosted by the Walt Disney Company to learn all about the park-wide reimagination for Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Orlando.

In this NEW eleven-acre playland in the larger-than-life setting of Andy’s imagination, Andy has designed the perfect play space decorated with more than 400 toy blocks and towering toys from the hit Toy Story franchise.

Toy Story Land also brings the addition of new attractions to Disney’s Hollywood Studios…

Slinky Dog Dash, with a 38” height requirement, this is a family-friendly toy-filled coaster that twists around curves, hills and drops.

Alien Swirling Saucers, with a height requirement of 32”, is designed to be your very own toy rocket. Hang on tight as the Aliens take you on a spin through space. But, watch out, you may be “chosen” by the Claw!

BOTH of these new attractions will be eligible for FastPass+

The entrance to Toy Story Land is near Toy Story Mania!, which remains one of the top attractions at Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the Toy Story experience that stared it all!

And don’t forget about the food… As “honorary toys” you can enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at Woody’s Lunch Box. This new dining experience will be a Quick Service option and will accept the Disney Dining Plans. Woody’s Lunch Box features classic American fare, old-fashioned soda floats and other Toy Story-themed specialties with tasty treats like three-cheese grilled cheese and a banana split parfait. Be sure to check My Disney Experience for updated menu information.

So buckle up your space ranger utility belt, set your lasers for big fun and get ready for the biggest play date of all time – June 30, 2018!

Toy Story Land—where kids of all ages can play and experience new adventures.

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Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Published on January 15, 2018 in Orlando/Stay on Property/Walt Disney World by Crystal Boston

I have eaten at many of the Signature Dining locations on Disney property, with plans to try the rest very soon – but they keep adding more!

Narcoossee’s, located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, was definitely a favorite! The venue is not very large, and the restaurant location is a bit hidden, but it does offer a panoramic view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks and Electrical Water Pageant from the waterfront verandah.

Narcoossee’s offers steak and seafood – including whole-steamed Maine lobster. And, like all Walt Disney World Resort restaurants, a tasty kids menu too! Dining Plans are accepted and this Signature Dining experience requires 2 meal entitlements per person.

I shared my dining experience with my husband and a good friend. To start, we ordered the Artisan Romaine Wedge with Warm Bacon Vinaigrette, Herbed Mascarpone, Tomato, Avocado, and Parmesan along with the Shrimp and Crab Cake with a Creamy Rémoulade Sauce and Red Quinoa-Cabbage Slaw. Both were visually appealing and well prepared.

Our entrees were both sea & land selections and we shared the Narcoossee’s Signature Mashed Potatoes made with Boniato-Russet Mash, Applewood-smoked Bacon, Tillamook Cheddar, Scallions. This dish was excellent! The portion size was large, the potatoes were perfectly prepared, the bacon was thick and very flavorful and it was hot when delivered to our table.

For our main courses we chose Benne-crusted Herbidean Salmon with Haricot Verts, Vidalia Onion Soubise, and Peanut Romesco and the Grilled Grass Fed Filet Mignon with Yukon Gold Rustic Mash, Seasonal Vegetable, Red Wine-Oxtail Reduction – the filet was my choice and I requested the Roasted Brussel Sprouts in place of the Seasonal Vegetables. I am particular about my Brussel Sprouts and these were some of the best that I have had on property and my steak was cooked to perfection!

We all chose to skip dessert, although there were many sumptuous offerings that sounded very tempting – especially the ‘Narcoossee’s Candy Bar’ – a Dark Chocolate-Mocha Bar with House-made Guanaja Chocolate Gelato!

In addition to a delicious meal, we were pleased to learn that Narcoossee’s also carries a couple of our favorite adult beverages – Innis & Gunn Rum Cask Oak Aged Beer for my husband and Chappellet Cabernet Sauvignon for me.

If you are planning to visit Walt Disney World Resort, I highly recommend Narccoossee’s for food, service and atmosphere.

Reservations are recommended at this and all Signature Dining experience restaurants and can be made up to 180 days prior to your visit. Menus are subject to change.

All Signature Dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort have a ‘business casual’ dress code…
Men may wear slacks, jeans or dress shorts and collared shirts. Jackets are optional.
Women may wear dresses, skirts or dress shorts with blouses or sweaters.
Not permitted in the dining room are tank tops, swimsuits, swimsuit cover-ups, hats for gentlemen, cut-offs, torn clothing and shirts with offensive language or graphics.

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LOTS OF DISNEY, ORLANDO AND PLACES THEREABOUTS !!

Walt Disney World - page 3

Walt Disney World includes Theme Parks, Water Parks, Resort Hotels, Disney Springs, camping and a multitude of other entertainment options.

Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant – Disney Springs

STK Orlando – Disney Springs

Donut King

Be Our Guest Restaurant – New Prix Fixe Menu

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante at Disney Springs

2019 Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Open June 19, 2018!

UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park

Frozen Ever After Dessert Party at Epcot World Showcase

Toy Story Land – Opening June 30, 2018

Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Walt Disney World - page 3

Walt Disney World includes Theme Parks, Water Parks, Resort Hotels, Disney Springs, camping and a multitude of other entertainment options.

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