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We Just Found The COOLEST Disney Princess and Toy Story Light-Up Cups in Disney World!

Yesterday we showed you guys the amazing color-changing Confetti Cups we discovered at Starbucks in Disney Springs (click here if you missed it)!

Starbucks Confetti Cup

And now we’re just spotted even more adorable cups at World of Disney in Disney Springs! Let’s go check ’em out!

It looks like World of Disney has had a close encounter with the Toy Story-kind today! New Light-Up Toy Story Cups have invaded the shelves, and they come topped with an incredible Alien lid!

Toy Story Cup

It looks like Sherriff Woody’s rounded up the entire Toy Story gang! Even socially-awkward Forky makes a cameo appearance on this cool cup!

Toy Story Cup

Plus there’s Hamm, Bullseye, Pricklepants, and a bunch of other guys from Toy Story 3 and 4!

Toy Story Cup

But wait! We told you this cup LIGHTS UP! Check out how adorable it looks when its Alien lid is all AGLOW! OOOOOO!!!

Toy Story Cup

We also spotted this adorable Light-Up Disney Princess Cup, which comes topped with a pink tiara, of course!

Princess Cup

The walls of the cup feature all of our favorite princesses including Aurora, Tiana, Ariel, and even Rapunzel!

Princess Cup

Cinderella and Jasmine are also hanging out — in fact, Cindy seems to have one side of the cup all to herself!

Princess Cup

We spotted both new cups at World of Disney for $14.99, so check ’em out! And if you’re looking for even more fun stuff to brighten up your life, take a look at these new Rainbow Disney Loungeflys here!

Check out the sweetest new monorail merch we spotted at Disney Springs yesterday here!

Will you be picking up one of these new cups? Let us know which one’s your favorite in the comments below!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney merchandise, Disney Springs, Featured, Walt Disney World, alien lid, disney princess cup, disney springs, Disney World, light up cup, merchandise, toy story cup, World of Disney

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Choosing an NBA Team Based on Which Disney World Hotel They Should Stay In

The National Basketball Association is going to Disney World! Have a favorite team and want to know what hotel I think they should stay in? Have a favorite hotel and want to know what team to root for? Great!

Starting in late-July, the NBA will be finishing their regular season and playoffs at the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex on Disney property in Orlando. This week more information was leaked about how this would work and the format is expected to be ratified on Thursday afternoon. I’ll explain a little bit about how the schedule will work, but the main point of writing this is based on an ESPN article that claimed (among other ridiculous asks) that some top-seeded teams want to be able to pick which Disney World Resort hotel they get to stay in.

I’ll start by saying that this will not happen. Never. No chance. That said, it is incredibly fun to think about… so I did. Although rather than let the teams pick, I assigned a hotel based on what I think of the team and the hotel.

Before we get there, let me give a brief rundown of what’s going on with the basketball. If you don’t care, feel free to skip ahead. It’s going to get nerdy in here.

The NBA will bring 22 of their 30 teams to Orlando, leaving home the 8 worst from the 2/3 of the season that they managed to play before shutting down. Those 22 teams will each play 8 “regular season” games before the playoffs start. Sixteen teams make the playoffs in the NBA, playing in best-of-7-game series until a winner is determined.

Now here comes the complications: The 16 playoff teams are split evenly between the Eastern and Western conferences. The NBA, however, has decided to bring the 22 teams with the best records, regardless of conference. Therefore, they are bringing 9 Eastern Conference teams and 13 Western. That means there will likely be a tougher fight to get into those top-8 playoff teams in the West (although that’s not new).

Where it gets even more complicated is what happens if, after the 8 regular season games, the team in 9th place is less than 4 wins behind the team in 8th place. If that is the case, those two teams will play a mini-playoff where, if the 9th place team wins twice in a row, they make the playoffs. The team in 8th only has to win once. This is not how it’s usually done and hurts my brain.

So, each of the 22 teams will play 8 games. Sixteen of those will get to the playoffs. One will be the NBA champion. Not a fan? Great, let’s get you a team.

I have ordered the teams here in reverse order of record, so the best are at the top, as are the best hotels. If you want a team that can win the title, I would suggest choosing from the top half of this list (probably the top few).

Milwaukee Bucks – Polynesian Village Resort

The best team so far in the 2019-20 season gets, in my opinion, the best hotel at Disney World. The reigning MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo (call him Giannis, pronounced YON-iss, or the Greek Freek) deserves to relax on the beach. Besides, the Bucks have two brothers on their roster who are far-and-away the biggest theme park fans in the league: Brook and Robin Lopez.

The Lopez’ are 7-foot-tall twins who can be seen at most Disney-related openings and closings. I personally have seen them a few times and they showed up in tuxedos for the closing of the Great Movie Ride. Not only will Brook and Robin appreciate the Poly, Robin wanted it.

Los Angeles Lakers – Grand Floridian Resort

The Lakers are the flagship team of the NBA so they get the flagship resort. In this case they also happen to be a very good team led by LeBron James, one of the best basketball players ever. The Lakers have had some down seasons from their most recent title in 2010, but they seem to be back now.

Personally, I find the Grand Floridian a little boring, but it’s all about the show and that fits the Lakers. The Lakers are also Guy Selga’s favorite team, and I never want to anger Guy Selga.

Toronto Raptors – Contemporary Resort

A very nice hotel with very nice rooms. Just not quite as exciting as its Seven Seas Lagoon neighbors. The Raptors are a good team. They were a great team last year when they won the championship, but Kawhi Leonard left to go to the next team on the list. Even so, people forget about the Raptors.

I gave them the Contemporary because I also forget about it a lot. It’s one of the very few WDW hotels I’ve never stayed in. I have been to a Raptors game though, so maybe this is falling apart already.

Los Angeles Clippers – Boardwalk Inn Resort

Oh, the Clippers. They’ve had some fun teams, they’ve had some good teams, but they’ve mostly been living in the shadow of the Lakers. That might change now though, because superstar Kawhi Leonard moved back home to LA after his title in Toronto and is now pushing the Clippers higher than they’ve ever been.

They get the Boardwalk because it also can get overlooked in favor of its Beachy and Yachty sister resorts, but it’s top quality too. Besides, the owner of the Clippers, Microsoft billionaire Steve Ballmer, is… intense. I can only imagine him singing along at Jellyrolls.

via GIPHY

Boston Celtics – Kidani Village Resort

The Boston Celtics are a good team that I never quite trust. They have a lot of good players, a good coach, and a potential star in young Jason Tatum, but I’ve never been totally sold by them yet. I gave them Kidani Village for similar reasons.

I love Animal Kingdom Lodge and I should love Kidani too. The rooms are really nice, the lobby is pretty, and they have one of my favorite restaurants in Sanaa. Yet, I can’t seem to get over the flaws like the lack of Quick Service. I think it’s more me than that hotel or the Celtics, but here we are anyway.

Denver Nuggets – Yacht Club Resort

The Nuggets are an up-and-coming team with some real talent led by their center, Nikola Jokic, who is a very good scorer, an exceptional passer, and has the slightly doughy body I can relate to.

I assign them the Yacht Club because I really like it. The refurbished rooms are really nice, the location is great, and the pool is the best. That said, it’s not quite the best. Like the Nuggets.

Utah Jazz – Beach Club Resort

Much like the Nuggets above, the Jazz are a team still trying to get to the end of the road. I gave the Beach Club to the Jazz because I think of them as an older team (because my brain still pictures John Stockton and Karl Malone 30 years ago). Beach Club is a hotel I love, but the rooms are looking a little dated, like my memories of the 90s Jazz.

Of course, both the Beach Club and the Jazz are very good. The Jazz have a very good, very young star in Donovan Mitchell and the Beach Club has the best pool at Disney World. How are those similar? I don’t know, I’m stretching here.

Miami Heat – Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the most unique hotels in the world. It has beautiful, African-inspired architecture, a stunning savanna, and great dining options. I will always enjoy being there.

The Miami Heat are the team that are basically the opposite of the Celtics for me, I always enjoy them for reasons I can’t explain. They have a very prickly superstar in Jimmy Butler and a great young center with an equally great name in Bam Adebayo. They haven’t been great since LeBron James and Dwyane Wade left, but I find myself rooting for them anyway. Much like Animal Kingdom Lodge, you can come at me with reasons all day, but I’ll never admit they’re not a good time.

Oklahoma City Thunder – Old Key West Resort

I’m baffled by Old Key West. It’s been there for a long time and I always thought of it as more of a retirement community than a hotel. I like the tropics fine, but wouldn’t go to a Jimmy Buffet concert. Yet, the resort, and the huge rooms, are wonderful. Against all of my expectations.

The Oklahoma City Thunder used to have Kevin Durant, James Harden, and Russell Westbrook all on the same team. All 3 have won the MVP of the league, only the last one while still on the Thunder. None of them are still on the team. Yet here we are, watching a team led by a 35-year-old Chris Paul that is still in the playoffs. Against all of my expectations.

Houston Rockets – Bay Lake Tower

Two of the three MVPs I just named, James Harden and Russell Westbrook, have both ended up on the Rockets. Houston is also the team that most stringently uses statistical theories to construct their game plan. Even so, they haven’t quite fit together well enough to get to a championship. Without going into too many nerdy details, they also play a style that is not the most aesthetically pleasing.

Bay Lake Tower is my definition of not quite fitting in and not the most aesthetically pleasing. I like staying there, mostly for the location, and I love the Top of the World Lounge, but it just doesn’t quite look right to me. Neither to do the Rockets.

Indiana Pacers – Saratoga Springs Resort

Saratoga Springs is a perfectly nice resort but it’s hard to think of anything in particular that stands out about it. I can’t think of a better way to describe the Indiana Pacers.

The Pacers have a star in Victor Oladipo, but he had just come back from a year-long ruptured quad injury. Even without him, Indiana managed to stay relevant, but only the biggest of basketball fans seem to notice.

Philadelphia 76ers – Riviera Resort

Disney Vacation ClubI don’t really have a favorite NBA team, I just like the sport. That said, I do live in Pennsylvania so I always have a soft spot for the Sixers and I love their trash-talking 7-footer Joel Embiid, who is one of the league’s best players when he’s not injured. The problem is that the players on the 76ers don’t quite work great together and they’re getting so expensive that it’s hard to do anything else.

I haven’t stayed at the Riviera yet, but its status as very expensive and yet not quite having the same advantages of other DVC resorts leads me to classify it as very nice, but disappointing. Sadly, I think this will be a good comparison to the Sixers.

Dallas Mavericks – Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

My first comparison to a Moderate Resort shows you where we are on the list. That said, Dallas is one of my favorite teams to watch because they have two young, dynamic stars. The 24-year-old, 7’3″ Latvian, Kristaps Porzingis was traded from the New York Knicks last year and paired with the 21-year-old Slovenian, Luka Doncic. Luka is legitimately one of my favorite players and is on the road to a future MVP.

Port Orleans – Riverside is not in the top tier of resorts, but I’ve never regretted spending time there. It’s beautiful and there are some fun things to do. Pretty and fun… welcome to the Dallas Mavericks.

Memphis Grizzlies – Reflections – A Disney Lakeside Lodge

Yes, Reflections doesn’t technically exist yet. It is under construction on the shores of Bay Lake and won’t open until at least 2021. We don’t know exactly what it will be yet.

The Memphis Grizzlies are currently hanging on to the 8th seed in the Western Conference (meaning they would make the playoffs). They are a very young team led by electric rookie Ja Morant and the 20-year-old Jaren Jackson, Jr. and they have the potential to be great in the future. Right now, however, it’s all speculation.

Brooklyn Nets – Wilderness Lodge

Wilderness Lodge is often overlooked for its neighbors on Seven Seas Lagoon, but it’s really nice. I like the Wilderness Lodge a lot and find it a great resort to spend time at.

The Nets have been overshadowed by the New York Knicks forever. It doesn’t matter how bad the Knicks are, they are the story. That may have changed last summer when two massive free agents–Kevin Durant and Kyrie Irving–chose the Nets over the Knicks. Of course, Durant will not play until next season after tearing his Achilles tendon in 2019 and Irving had shoulder surgery in February that ended his season. We won’t know if the Nets can overcome their rivals until next season, but I know Wilderness Lodge can be great right now.

Bonus: New York Knicks – Fort Wilderness Campground

The Knicks are not in the top 22 teams, so they won’t be coming to Orlando. They still wanted in, however, and were under the impression that they were picking Wilderness Lodge, but actually signed on to Fort Wilderness Campground. They are still confident that it is the best resort and will lead them to many titles.

Orlando Magic – Pop Century Resort

The Orlando Magic play their home games about 15 miles from Disney World. Even so, they will have to move into the “bubble” during the end of the season. They’d rather just stay off property (in their own homes), but they’re at least going to get a nice value room. Pop Century has some really nice rooms. They’ll be fine.

Portland Trail Blazers – Caribbean Beach Resort

Caribbean Beach is the oldest of the moderates. Always good, never quite great. The Blazers fit that perfectly: they have been very good for a long time, never quite great. Damian Lillard is an amazing player, and is trying to drag the team to the top, much like the recent lobby refurbishment helped make Caribbean Beach better. Even so, it’s hard to break into that top tier.

New Orleans Pelicans – Coronado Springs Resort

Coronado Springs was always a decent resort, but it was hard to get too excited about it. Then the Gran Destino tower was built and added some nicer rooms, a flashier presence, and some more great dining options. Now it’s a Moderate-plus (or a Deluxe-minus maybe) hotel.

The New Orleans Pelicans were just kind of there. Then they got the number one pick in last year’s draft and got Zion Williamson, one of the most dynamic tanks of a man that you’ll ever see. The Pelicans have a little work to do to get into the playoffs, but it’s not out of reach. Zion’s a player you have to see at least once, and Gran Destino is a hotel you have to try once.

Sacramento Kings – All-Star Movies Resort

The All-Star Resorts have always been my least favorite. I’ve been very happy to see that Movies (and now Music) are getting the nice rooms like Pop Century has. It still might be my least favorite, but at least it’s better and easier to recommend.

The Sacramento Kings have been making bad decisions for about 20 years and that has led to some bad basketball. But they have a very good point guard in De’Aaron Fox and occasionally win games now. At least it’s better.

San Antonio Spurs – Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

French Quarter is my favorite Moderate Resort and, frankly, this year’s Spurs don’t deserve the comparison. This is a history assignment because the Spurs have been great for a very long time, in fact they look likely to finally end their 22-year playoff run this season.

I respect the Spurs and their coach Gregg Popovich so much that I still gave them a nice place to stay. Of course, they have a very slim chance of making the playoffs so they won’t stay there long.

Phoenix Suns – Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation has really nice pieces, like good themed areas and a very good food court, but it is still a Value. The Phoenix Suns have Devin Booker, an excellent scorer, but they’re still not going to make the playoffs. Sorry Suns.

Washington Wizards – All-Star Sports Resort

The Wizards have the worst record of all 22 teams, but they still have an outside chance of catching the Orlando Magic for 8th place in the Eastern Conference. That said, they’re not very good even with the injured John Wall and the very good Bradley Beal on the team. They get All-Star Sports just because.

Do you agree with these placements? What team would you put where? Which team do you think will take it all at the end of this tournament? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

The post Choosing an NBA Team Based on Which Disney World Hotel They Should Stay In appeared first on TouringPlans.com Blog.

From our friends at touringplans.com
Filed Under: Just For Fun, Walt Disney World (FL), NBA

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We’re Ranking the World Showcase Pavilions at Epcot by Their Snacks! (See Where Your Favorite Stacks Up!)

Maybe it’s not such a big secret that we love Disney snacks — lots and LOTS of Disney snacks.

Spaceship Earth

We’ve already put ourselves through the torturous decisions of ranking the Magic Kingdom lands by snacks AND ranking the lands in Animal Kingdom by their snacks. Whew. Well, we’re suckers for a little decisive turmoil so WE’RE BACK to ranking lands by snacks. This time, we’re examining Epcot’s World Showcase — arguably one of the snackiest spots in all of Disney World! WHICH PAVILION’S SNACKS WILL REIGN SUPREME?

There are eleven total World Showcase pavilions in Epcot, each with their own unique dining locations and snack options. Hmm…this is going to be quite a challenge!

Walking in World Showcase

For each pavilion, we’re going to take a look at the most ICONIC snacks that it offers. Some have more than others, but that’s all a part of the metric isn’t it? So, without further ado, let’s get to that ranking!

11. Canada Pavilion

We know, we KNOW! How can we possibly put the land of Canada popcorn in the lowest spot on the list?! Well, calm your britches, we have our reasons.

Canada Popcorn Cart

Though we absolutely adore the snacks in Canada, you have to admit — this pavilion has some pretty limited options! Come on, poutine isn’t even available in the pavilion itself (WHY is there no Poutine stand?!?)!

Popcorn in Canada

Though Canada has a great table-service restaurant with Le Cellier Steakhouse, the only place to really find snacks in the pavilion is at the Canada Popcorn Cart. Of course, we love us some Disney popcorn, so who are we to say no to a stop by the Canada cart?

Maple Popcorn in Canada

Here, you’ll find that classic Disney World popcorn but you’ll also find the DELISH Maple Popcorn that you can ONLY find here. This stuff is super yummy and kind of akin to kettle corn if that’s your jam. Plus, you can grab some Le Cellier’s proprietary Batch #5 Ketchup Chips or a tasty Canadian beer here as well.

Click here to read our full review of Disney World’s Maple Popcorn!

Still, low variety puts Canada low on our list. No matter how good Maple Popcorn is, Canada needs to step up its snack game if it wants to roll with the best of ’em!

10. Morocco Pavilion

But Canada isn’t the only World Showcase pavilion that leaves us wanting for a few more options.

Pastry Case and Coffee Bar

The Morocco Pavilion will have you HUNTING if you’re looking for snacks (although it’s no secret that you can find a great meal here)!

Tangierine Cafe

If you ARE scoping out the snacks in Morocco, you’re going to want to head into Tangierine Cafe. You might know this dining location for its yummy lunch and dinner options that feature traditional Moroccan meals, but remember, we’re focusing on the SNACKS today.

Mixed Strawberry and Tangierine slushies

If you’re counting alcoholic beverages as a snack, then you’re in luck in this country. You can snag a Tangerine or Strawberry Daquiri from the cafe, AKA… GROWN-UP SLUSHIES. These are really good and super-refreshing. Plus, they’ve got a nice balance of alcohol that won’t have you incapable of riding Test Track after you drink one .

Tangierine Coffee and Pistachio Baklava

If you think that cocktails don’t count (HOT take, but alright), you can grab a Baklava from the dessert counter. Baklava is a buttery and flaky puff pastry filled with honey and nuts. If you’re a nut-lover, you’ll probably like this yummy treat!

Want to see our REVIEW of the grown-up slushies? Click here!

While we do love our occasional stops into Tangierine Cafe, Morocco Pavilion is really more suited to a full meal than just a snack.

9. China Pavilion

Another low scorer on this list is the China Pavilion. Now, listen, we love the theming and spirit of the China Pavilion. Plus, we ESPECIALLY love the drinks in this spot!

China Pavilion

Still, China finds itself a little lacking in the actual snacks department, and we just can’t let those yummy cocktails make up for it.

Joy of Tea

Speaking of yummy cocktails, our first stop in this pavilion is Joy of Tea. This stand is home to one of our favorite drinks in the World Showcase with the Tipsy Ducks in Love. This libation is a surprising mix of coffee, tea, bourbon whiskey, and chocolate. Weird? Yes. Delicious? YES. And that’s not the only great drink here! We like a bunch of them on the menu, so you can pick what sounds best to you.

Chicken Curry Pocket inside

In the snacks-proper area, you might want to give the Curry Chicken Pocket a try! We tried this for the first time thanks to the suggestion of a Joy of Tea Cast Member and we are STILL thanking him to this day. The pastry part of the pocket is delicious and the curry adds a slightly spicy kick to the chicken. This is a great snack for a rainy Epcot day.

If you gotta know more about the Tipsy Ducks in Love, click here!

Lotus Blossom Cafe

Lotus Blossom Cafe is the China Pavilion’s quick-service spot and it’s a good place to grab some Chinese staples, especially if you’re a big takeout Chinese food-lover.

Strawberry Red Bean Ice Cream

BUT on the snack side of things, you’re going to want to get your sweet tooth ready. This dining locale has some interesting ice cream flavors. Specifically, we’re talking about Red Bean and Ginger Ice Cream! Such interesting options are sure to expand your tastes and are definitely not to be missed.

Has that Red Bean Ice Cream piqued your interest? Click here!

You can probably tell things are starting to ramp up a little bit. Wait until you see the rest of the list!

8. Japan Pavilion

Getting into the meaty middle of things, we’re jetting over to the Japan Pavilion. The Japanese snack options definitely have some merit but you have to have some more specific tastes.

Japan Pavilion at Epcot

That being said, we LOVE stopping for a snack in Japan — there are just some other countries that edge it out.

Kabuki Cafe

Right on the edge of the Japan Pavilion is a little stand called Kabuki Cafe. Though there are a few places to look for snacks in Japan, this is probs our go-to. First off, Kabuki features the famous and fan-favorite Kakigori. This snack is shaved ice with fruit syrup; so, kinda like a snow cone but better. Our favorite flavor is melon!

Kakigori

PLUS you can get a Sake Mist here too and let us tell you, these things are revolutionary. It’s an alcoholic shaved ice. Uh… yeah. If that sounds like something you might be into (WE ARE!), we recommend swinging for the more fruity flavors. Kabuki Cafe also offers some Sushi if you just need a quick pick-me-up.

Click here to read our REVIEW of the Sake Mist!

Katsura Grill

Katsura Grill is the quick-service spot in Japan and we like dining there, but there are definitely better places to grab a meal in World Showcase. Still, if you’re craving Japanese food and not feelin’ a sit-down meal, it’s a great option!

Green Tea Cheesecake

Snack-wise, we recommend swinging for some Sushi as an option. Like at Kabuki Cafe, the sushi here is prepackaged but it’s still pretty good. A dessert snack suggestion? If you’re a green tea or matcha fan, you should def try that Green Tea Cheesecake.

To check out a FULL review of Katsura Grill, click here!

Sake Bar

Ok, ok, maybe we’re stretching the limits of what a “snack” is so that we can include alcohol again. Can you blame us? Maybe you can, but we can deal with that.

Sake Bar

If you’re a fan of Sake, or if you’ve never tried any, you should check out the options over at the Sake Bar!

Click here to see how we feel about the Sake Bar!

Mitsukoshi Department Store

You might be surprised but there’s one more place to get your snack on in Japan and it’s actually a RETAIL location! Easily one of the coolest stores in Epcot is the Mitsukoshi Department Store. Really, this MASSIVE shop is more like a bunch of stores all smooshed together, and one of those stores features some surprising snack options.

Dried Crabs

You can find a variety of Japanese snacks ranging from Japanese pop rocks and reverse lemon heads to rice crackers and… dried crabs?? You heard us. And yes, they are as weird as they sound. Still, you can’t miss trying out a few of the snacks in Mitsukoshi! (We LOVE the fizzy, chewy Ramune flavored candies AND Ramune sodas!)

Ramune Soda in Japan’s Mitsukoshi Department Store

If you keep traveling to the back of the store you’ll find their own Sake Bar! We prefer the wider selection at this small counter, so if you want to pair some sake with your adventurous snacks, this is a great choice!

Want to find out more about those dried crabs? Click here if you dare! 

We really do have to give it to Japan on the variety front. Where else can you snack on dried crabs AND shaved ice? Spoiler alert: The answer is nowhere.

7. United Kingdom Pavilion

Possibly the complete opposite of the Japan Pavilion, the United Kingdom Pavilion beats out Japan by just a little bit for the #7 spot.

Epcot’s United Kingdom Pavilion

There’s certainly less variety here, but those snacks that are here are oh-so-good.

Yorkshire County Fish Shop

We’re starting with an iconic one here and definitely our favorite food to grab in the UK Pavilion. Swing by Yorkshire County Fish Shop to snag those delicious Fish & Chips.

Close-up of Batter

Yes, it’s true, Fish & Chips are really more of a meal, but we like to be creative here. You can share an order to make for a great snack for two OR get just the Chips to stave off the hunger until later! Whatever you do, you’re in for some perfectly fried and perfectly British eats (don’t forget the malt vinegar!).

Click here for the full low-down on those Fish & Chips!

Rose & Crown Pub

Rose & Crown Pub is nearby and we certainly consider the Pub Blends here a snack. Think about it, if you order one of the ones with Guinness, that’s going to be pretty filling (Guinness is basically a meal!).

Rose and Crown Pub and Dining Room

Pub Blends are basically two (awesome) beers layered on top of one another. We like the Black & Tan, Half Bass Ale and Half Guinness, the Snake Bite, Half Cider and Half Harp, or for our cider-lovers, the Cider and Black which is cider topped with black currant syrup!

To check out more of the offerings at Rose & Crown, click here! 

The UK Pavilion pulls out its place thanks to how iconic its snacks (err…drinks!) are. We definitely don’t get tired of these snacks.

6. American Adventure Pavilion

You might be kind of surprised to see the American Adventure Pavilion so high up in the list. After all, we’re IN America, how crazy can these snacks really be?

American Adventure

Well, you’re just going to have to hear us out on this one because the American Adventure is slaying the game.

Fife & Drum Tavern

Let’s start with Fife & Drum Tavern. This kiosk hides a serious gem of a beverage in the American Dream. This slushy is a non-alcoholic blend of strawberry and raspberry slushies with vanilla soft-serve and it IS as good as it sounds.

American Dream in American Adventure Pavilion

Plus, Fife & Drum has served some crazy Guardians of the Galaxy-themed snacks for Guardians of the Galaxy — Awesome Mix Live! If this show returns, we’d be pretty happy to see the return of some of these items like the Awesome Mix Slushy and the Mix Tart!

Want to see more of the Guardians of the Galaxy — Awesome Mix Live! foods? Click here!

Regal Eagle Smokehouse

Next up, we gotta talk about the snacks to be found hidden in the brand-new Regal Eagle Smokehouse. The great thing about Regal Eagle is that pretty much any of the sides are super snackable. Choose from Beer-battered Onion Rings, Baked Beans with Burnt Ends, Creamy Coleslaw, Seasoned French Fries, Garlic Toast, House-made Pickles, and Macaroni and Cheese.

Regal Eagle Smokehouse

Plus, if you’re like us, then you like to make a snack out of dessert. At Regal Eagle, you can try the Banana Pudding or S’mores Brownies. Yummm.

Click here for our FULL REVIEW of Regal Eagle!

Block & Hans

American Adventure has its own beer cart too with Block & Hans. Now, we’re not lovin’ this spot for the beer since we can get American beer pretty much anytime we want. What we DO love Block & Hans for are the delicious Pretzels!

Block & Hans Craft Beer

You’ve got pretzel choices too! You can snag the classic Mickey Pretzel, a Cream Cheese Pretzel, or a Jalapeno and Cheese Stuffed Pretzel. Oh, and OF COURSE they’ve got that plastic cheese for dipping!!!

Wanna know more about Block & Hans? Click here!

Funnel Cake

Lastly, right on the edge of American Adventure, you can swing by the Funnel Cake Stand. So, we love this spot for obvious reasons (read: fried dough is irresistible. Duh.), but this stand has been working hard to help hold the pavilion in its 6th place position.

Mini Funnel Cake

This spot is KILLING it at festivals right now! We’re not kidding, they’ve got delicious funnel cakes down to a science. Check out the Mini Funnel Cake they served for Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival this year. Dare we say best funnel cakes ever? Yes, we do dare!

Click here to learn more about that Mini Funnel Cake!

See, we told you! American Adventure is killin’ it. So we bet you’re wondering what the top five could be. Let’s get into it!

5. Italy Pavilion

Coming in at number five of our winning pavilions is the Italy Pavilion.

Italy Pavilion

Italy’s got some amazing options. Our one qualm keeping it from being higher on our list? The snacks here are a little pricy.

Gelati

First up we have to chat about Gelati. This easy-to-miss gelato spot has some serious “wins” on the menu. The different gelato flavors are always yummy (and they rotate so you might find something new depending on when you stop by!). Plus you can grab a Gelato Sandwich which is any flavors between two chocolate chip cookies. We’ll take two, please!

Gelato Perfection! The Coppa Delizia in Epcot’s Italy Pavilion

But those simple snacks aren’t the only stars here. This spot also has gelato sundaes like the strawberry Coppa Delizia and other Italian treats like Affogato and a Cannoli Cupcake. You can’t go wrong flavors-wise at this kiosk — just beware those prices!

Click here to see why we love the Coppa Delizia!

Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar

Next up, we’re tucking into the hidden gem of Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar. If you DON’T think wine is a snack, then don’t worry, there are other options in this secluded location too (we promise we mean real food, not booze!). We like Tutto Gusto because it makes for a great escape from the Epcot crowds and definitely feels a little upscale.

Tutto Gusto

Plus, you can snag sliced meats, Italian cheeses like the L’Alpina Gusto Plate, and other delicious small plates like the Ravioli di Ricotta. Plus, we’re huuuge fans of their fresh-made cannolis! If you’re looking for a more refined snack and maybe some Italian wine to go with it, head to Tutto Gusto.

Thinking about swinging by Tutto Gusto? Click here!

Pizza al Taglio

A bonus option when you’re in World Showcase may be Pizza al Taglio. This pizza window is a great spot to swing by for a quick slice of ‘za, but it is only open seasonally. So, you’ll have to keep an eye out if you’re looking to try out these Sicilian-style pizza by the slice.

Pizza al Taglio

The pizza at this window is super yummy and has a nice thick crust. You can snag classics like Pepperoni and Margherita, but we really like the special — Pizza San Gennaro!

Click here to scope out our review of the Italy pizza window!

See? Isn’t your mouth watering just THINKING about these Italy Pavilion snacks?

4. Mexico Pavilion

Coming in at number four, we’re swinging over to one of our FAVORITE World Showcase pavilions.

Mexico Pavilion in Epcot

Call the Three Caballeros, we’re headed to Mexico!!!

Choza de Margarita

When you first step into the Mexico Pavilion, it’s hard to pass up a stop at Choza de Margarita. This kiosk, literally translated to “Margarita Hut” serves up a bunch of tasty margarita options AND some yummy foods. In our book, margs definitely count as a snack, but when in doubt there are other choices too!

Fiesta Margarita

Our favorite drink at this location is the Fiesta Margarita which is a delicious and knock-your-socks-off STRONG drink. It’s a layered combo of all three frozen marg flavors — Wild Strawberry, Classic Lime, and Mango Loco.

Tacos al Pastor

This is one of the stronger drinks in World Showcase, so it’s good that you can also grab some hearty Mexican food to soften the blow. We love the Esquites spicy corn for a quick refuel or the Tacos al Pastor or Empanadas de Barbacoa when we need a heavier snack!

Click here to see our EVERYTHING ON THE MENU review of Choza de Margarita!

La Cantina de San Angel

La Cantina de San Angel is the quick service restaurant of this pavilion and it has some seriously great options. Did someone say $.75 Queso? Yes, someone did. We’re that someone. WHO WOULD DARE PASS UP ON $.75 QUESO???

Outdoor Seating

This spot also has some killer Guacamole and Chips and the BALLER Empanada con Queso (think of it like a deep-fried Mexican grilled cheese!). These are literally just fried flour tortillas stuffed with cheese. Give your taste buds a talking-to before you eat these because they’re headed straight to taste bud heaven.

Want to see our review of La Cantina? Click here!

La Cava del Tequila

And finally, you can head INTO the pyramid in the pavilion to find La Cava del Tequila. This tucked-away spot is home to an AMAZING variety of tequila, so it has some pretty great Specialty Margaritas too.

La Cava del Tequila

Plus, if you’re looking for Chips and Queso or Guac, this is the place to head. We’re not kidding when we say this just might be the best queso in ALL OF DISNEY WORLD.

Want chips and queso TO GO??? Click here!

If you know how much we love cheese, you know why Mexico is hanging out so high on our list. BUT we’ve reached the exciting ones. Let’s take a look at our TOP THREE!

3. Norway Pavilion

Our third-place pick, with just ONE snack stop, is the Norway Pavilion?! But, HOW? How can Norway be so high up on our list with only ONE snack stop?

The Norway Pavilion

Well, dear reader, it all comes down to the quality of that snack spot.

Kringla Bakeri og Kafe

The one, single reason that Norway is killin’ it on the snack game is because it is home to Kringla Bakeri og Kafe! You can smell Kringla ALL OVER Norway (or is that the Laila perfume sold in the gift shop??) so it’s no wonder that tons of folks get drawn in to try the freshly baked desserts displayed inside.

Kringla Bakeri og Kafe with Viking Guard

The School Bread is the famous treat here; a soft pastry filled with sweet vanilla cream and topped with coconut is hard to pass up! This is seriously a fan-favorite that you’ve got to try at least once. Other great options include the Troll Horn, Sweet Pretzels, and Norwegian Beers and Coffee Cocktails!

Click here to check out our Kringla School Bread review! 

If you’ve never been to Kringla, you might not think that one spot is good enough for the top three. But if you HAVE been to Kringla, then you probably agree with us that it deserves to be up here!

2. Germany Pavilion

Coming in at second place is the Germany Pavilion! We love the snacks over here in Germany thanks to the ICONIC options in both the realms of savory and sweet.

Clock in Epcot’s Germany Pavilion

If you’ve got time for a sit-down meal, we recommend heading to Biergarten (all you can eat pretzel rolls and LITERS of beer?!), but if not, don’t despair. The snacks here are some of the greatest!

Sommerfest

We love the snacks offered at Germany’s Sommerfest! This quick-service counter has ALL the German essentials including Bratwurst, Sauerkraut, and Black Forest Cake.

Get the Nudel Gratin in Epcot’s Germany!

The must-get here is something you may not have heard of though. When you get to Sommerfest, glance at the “Sides” section of the menu. It’s there that you’ll find the Nudel Gratin which is a baked macaroni with cheese custard. Listen, this is mac and cheese on a WHOLE NOTHER LEVEL. This snack ALONE was enough to pull Germany into the top of our list.

Want to see more from Sommerfest? Click here!

Karamell-Kuche

Remember how we mentioned that Germany has us covered on savory AND sweet? Let’s take a look at that sweet! We’re taking a jaunt over to Karamell-Kuche — that’s German for “Caramel Kitchen.” This sweets shop features caramel covered EVERYTHING and all of it is made with Werthers Caramels. Ugh, we’re dreaming about it now (Seriously, you can smell it across World Showcase!).

Karamell-Küche

This shop has some of the best Caramel Corn (plus Caramel Corn Cupcakes!) we’ve ever had, and if you’ve never had a Caramel Apple made with Werthers, then you’re not even really living. Pro tip: Ask the Cast Member to cut the apple up for you so your teeth (and dentist) don’t hate you later!

Karamell-Küche popcorn

And there are tons of other GREAT caramel treats to try! Do NOT miss out on a stop to snack in the Germany pavilion.

Click here to check out that Caramel Corn Cupcake!

Who knew Germany could have so many delicious and fan-favorite treats? Well, we all know now! So, grab your lederhosen and head on over!

1. France Pavilion

Now, it’s time for the creme de la creme. We’re talking about the premiere choice. Yes, that’s right this is the piece de resistance of World Showcase! It’s the FRANCE PAVILION! WOOH! Break out the confetti cannons, we have a winner!

Completed Epcot France Pavilion!

If you’ve ever stepped just one FOOT in the France Pavilion and even SMELLED some of the amazing snacks here, you know why France is, by far and away, the NUMBER ONE snack choice in World Showcase.

Crepes des Chefs de France

France has got it ALL — quality AND variety. Our first stop on our tour of the snackiest pavilion is Crepes des Chefs de France. This spot is pretty self-explanatory, but that doesn’t make the eats here any less delicious. You can try all sorts of Crepes here!

Crepes Sign

Get ’em with chocolate, get ’em with strawberries. You can even get them with soft-serve ice cream! In fact, the Ice Cream Crepes are the FIRST (of many) don’t-miss snacks in the France Pavilion. Plus, there’s a full creperie coming soon with La Creperie de Paris!

Want to learn more about the upcoming Creperie? Click here!

Les Vins des Chefs de France

Next up, we have another one of those kind-of-snacks/actually-alcohol spots with Les Vins des Chefs de France! This is the wine stand in the France Pavilion that we’d argue most folks DON’T head to looking to buy wine! They have something much better on the menu…

France Slushes

The Grand Marnier Slush or the Grey Goose Slush are the gems of this menu! These are both SO good and easily one of our favorite parts of drinking around the world. If these iconic boozy slushies aren’t your jam, you can pick up French beer and wine at this spot too!

Click here to read why these slushes are SO good! 

L’Artisan des Glaces

We know, it’s surprising that France is doing ice cream better than Italy is doing gelato, but it’s true! Swing by L’Artisan des Glaces to cool off on a hot Epcot day! One of the most iconic treats here is the Ice Cream Martini. This cocktail is two scoops of ice cream or sorbet served in a martini glass with a shot of Grand Marnier, Whipped Cream Vodka, or Rum. Yes, it is as good as it sounds.

Ice Cream Martini from L’Artisan des Glaces in Epcot’s France Pavilion

If alcohol isn’t your thing, we can also HIGHLY recommend the Croque Glace, a scoop of ice cream with sauce in a warm homemade brioche, or the Macaron which is a chocolate or seasonal macaron ice cream sandwich. Seriously, how do they come up with this stuff? The ice creams here are all freshly made in house and ALL so so good!

Thinking you want to try the Croque Glace? Click here!

Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie

And we’ve saved THE best snack spot in THE best snack pavilion for the very end! Let’s talk about Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie! The snack options here are pretty much endless (ok, maybe not but it sure seems that way) and there’s nothing quite as charming as chowing down on a pastry in this sweet, tucked away bakery. Pro tip: Les Halles opens at 9AM so you can swing by first thing in the morning for a tasty breakfast!

Frangipane at Les Halles

Let’s talk favorite at Les Halles. Perhaps our absolute favorite pastry in ALL of World Showcase is the Frangipane. This is a flaky croissant-like dough filled with a sweet almond paste and there is nothing quite like it. If that sounds up your alley, you gotta try it!

Entrance to Boulangerie Patisserie in Epcot’s France Pavilion

Other faves at Les Halles include the Duo, a white and dark chocolate mousse cake, and the classic Macarons. Actually, though, you CAN’T go wrong with just about anything at Les Halles. Go ahead and try. We love everything that this bakery puts out (did we mention they make a bacon cheese roll? They totally do. And yeah, it’s awesome).

Click here to read about why we LOVE the Frangipane!

We think it really is no contest when it comes to our number one pick. But, hey, this is all just based on OUR taste buds! Maybe we’ve got a few rankings that you disagree with and maybe there are some you think we got spot on. Regardless, we hope you had fun touring World Showcase with us and we’ll see yah in the next snack ranking!

Do you agree with our ranking? Tell us why or why NOT in the comments!

Related posts:

  1. What’s New in Disney World’s Epcot! August 6, 2018
  2. DFB Video: The 26 EXCLUSIVE Must-Eat Treats in Disney World’s Epcot
  3. 11 AWESOME Disney World Snacks UNDER $5 (Plus 4 BONUS Favorites!)

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: disney parks, Epcot, Featured, Snacks, Walt Disney World, Affogato, american dream, Baklava, Block & Hans, Cannoli Cupcake, caramel apples, caramel corn, Chaute Glace, chips and queso, Choza de Margarita, Conga, Coppa Delizia, Crepes des Chefs de France, Curry chicken pocket, disney snacks, duo, epcot snacks, fiesta margarita, fife & drum tavern, fish & chips, Frangipane, funnel cake, Gelati, Gelato, Gelato Sandwiches, Grand Marnier slush, green tea cheesecake, Grey Goose Slush, Ice Cream Martni, Joy of Tea, Jumbo Macaron, Kabuki Cafe, Kakagori, karamell kuche, Katsura Grill, Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe, L’Artisan des Glaces, la cantina de san angel, La Cava del Tequila, Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie, les vins des chefs de france, Lotus Blossom Cafe, Macaron Sandwiches, Maple Popcorn, Mitsukoshi Department Store, nudel gratin, Popcorn in Canada, Poutine, pretzel, Pub Blend, Red Bean Ice Cream, Refreshment Outpost, refreshment port, Regal Eagle Smokehouse, Rose & Crown Pub, Sake Bar, school bread, Seasoned Crisps, sommerfest, Stow Away Mary, Sushi, Sweet Pretzels, Tangierine Cafe, Tipsy Ducks in Love, troll horn, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, UK Beer Cart, Via Napoli pizza window, World Showcase, Yorkshire County Fish Shop

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Disney World Cast Members are Returning to Work

disney world

Earlier we reported that Walt Disney World Resort hotel Cast Members will be returning to work this month. It’s now being announced that Disney is bringing back thousands of Cast Members.

Local union leader, Eric Clinton, updated his members this week with new details on how Disney will begin to deploy its staff again. According to the union, Disney full-time attractions and custodian workers will be called back to work this month.

Union members who work at water parks or other closed Disney World properties could transfer to other jobs where there are shortages. About 8,000 members from Clinton’s union could be called back to work.

Clinton explained that Disney is in need of employees to help maintain cleanliness and safety around the parks — including cleaning around ride queues and on the attractions, cleaning popular areas such as handrails, as well as to help maintain social distancing throughout the theme parks and in the queue lines.

Eric Clinton was not aware of what attractions would be reopening with the parks. “What we do know is there’s going to be a massive need for attractions workers across property. … There’s going to be a lot of work that needs to be done,” Clinton shared.

Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Animal Kingdom parks are scheduled to reopen July 11 with Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios reopening July 15.

Source: Orlando Sentinel

From our friends at chipandco.com
Filed Under: News, Parks & Resorts, Walt Disney World, Cast Members, Disney World, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort

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NEWS! The NBA Is One Step Closer to Finishing Their Season at Disney World!

We have shared many details on if the NBA will finish their season in Disney World.  

NBA Experience at Disney World

Now, the NBA is one step closer to making this a reality.

Today, the NBA’s Board of Governors voted on whether or not they would finish out the season at Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. They single-site proposal was approved with a vote of 29/1. Tomorrow, the plan is set to be reviewed by the National Basketball Players Association, which has scheduled a virtual meeting with its membership Friday afternoon according to the New York Times.

This morning we shared the names of the 22 Eastern and Western Conference teams the NBA would be inviting to Disney World once the 2020 season resumed. The games have been proposed to take place from July 31st through October 12th.

NBA Experience

If approved, the season will take place in Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports (with no spectators permitted) and NBA players will likely be housed on Disney World property. While we don’t have all of the official details just yet, we’ve shared information regarding discussions about some teams being accommodated at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort.

We’ve also heard other Disney World hotels may be used by the NBA as well. Teams are likely to receive the first choice in picking which hotel they will stay at based on the order of their seeding.

ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex

The centralized location will diminish the need to travel between games and could help minimize risk for players and staff. Meanwhile, players and coaches will be allowed to golf and eat at outdoor restaurants in Disney World, but they will also be required to maintain social distancing according to sports columnist and NBA insider Adrian Wojnarowski.

Disney has not released a statement on how this could affect guests’ experiences, but as of now, Disney Springs is the only site on Disney World’s property open to the public. We will keep you updated as we learn more.

Check out ALL of our coverage from the reopening of Disney Springs here!

Why do you think the NBA chose Disney World to host the rest of the season? Let us know in the comments!

From our friends at www.disneyfoodblog.com
Filed Under: Disney Entertainment, disney resorts, Featured, Special Stuff, Walt Disney World, Basketball, Disney, disney nba, Disney World, disney world resort, espn, ESPN Wide World of Sports, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, National Basketball Association, NBA, NBA Season, NBA season Suspension, walt disney world resort