Expert Reviews of Walt Disney World

Animal Kingdom Lodge: Something for Everyone

6/26/2020 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • Once our kids (7 and 5) find out that we are heading to Walt Disney World, there is always one question that follows, "Are we staying at Animal Kingdom Lodge?" There is no denying that it is our family's favorite and it is always our top recommendation to friends and family that are planning their trip. Here are a few reasons why we love Animal Kingdom Lodge: 1. The immersive experience. It feels like you are in Africa! Of course, I’ve never been to Africa, but the theming of this resort is wonderful. From the activities and storytellers in the lobby to the landscaping and animals outside of your window. It just feels like you are somewhere and everything is an experience (and a good one at that!) 2. The Animals! They are obviously the star of the show at this resort, but to us it’s the freedom and fun […]

Rose and Crown Dining Room at Disney’s Epcot – Review

2/7/2020 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • With so many fabulous table service restaurants in Disney World, it can be difficult to choose. While I have never personally been disappointed at any of the locations I’ve dined at, there are still a few my family has yet to try. We have a bucket list of restaurants that we haven’t dined at, and on each trip, we make sure to try at least 2 or 3 different restaurants. On our last family trip, we finally checked Rose and Crown off our dining bucket list. Nestled in the UK pavilion of Epcot, this family-friendly British pub boasts some truly delicious food. We were seated waterfront for our dinner. Had we chosen a later reservation it would have been the perfect spot to view the night show Epcot-Forever. Outside seating is covered, providing shade from the Florida sun, while inside looks like you’ve walked right into a traditional pub in […]

Epcot’s Newest Restaurant: Takumi Tei- Review

1/17/2020 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • From the moment you walk in Takumi-Tei, you will begin a culinary experience that rivals any at Walt Disney World. Here you are enlightened to Japanese culture through an amazing dining team and incredible artisan food. In this blog, I will tell you why I chose this new restaurant at Epcot to celebrate my birthday at Takumi-Tei. Takumi-Tei is Japanese for “house of artisan” and your entire dining experience is one that is truly that. You are greeted by the dining staff outside the restaurant door. Here you will be guided inside into a hallway with water, wood, earth, stone, and washi paper displayed. This is an intimate area where you are educated on the importance of each and how your dining is influenced by them. It’s important to note there is no waiting area inside. Once you walk in you are now part of the dining experience. You are […]

Walt Disney World’s Newest Dining Experience: Toledo Restaurant-Review

12/17/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • On my most recent trip to Walt Disney World, I wanted to make it a trip of new experiences.  As a previous Walt Disney World Cast Member and frequent visitor, I enjoy seeing how they are always evolving. My next few series of blog posts are going to be all about these new experiences and if I would do it again! To start out my series I want to tell you all about this new hidden gem on the Walt Disney World property.  How many of you like amazing food and drink, a stunning but quiet atmosphere, with a view of the neighboring parks nighttime spectacular shows going off in the distance?  Oh, did I mention this restaurant is somehow only one dining credit on the Disney Dining Plan? I’d like to introduce you to Toledo one of the newest dining experiences on Disney property.  Toledo is located on the […]

Lightsaber Building at Savi’s Workshop-Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

12/6/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • There are a lot of new things to see and do in Galaxy’s Edge, and while lightsaber building has been around for some time at the exit of Star Tours, the new Lightsaber building experience at Savi’s Workshop is completely different.  This experience will set each builder back approximately $199 “Credits” (as they’re referred to when paying for anything in Galaxy’s Edge) plus tax. Reservations are required and each builder can be accompanied by one additional adult or child. Like many reservations throughout the Disney Parks, there is also a 24-hour cancelation policy. If the reservation isn’t canceled before that time or if there is a no show, the full cost of the experience will be charged to the card you have on file.  I suggest arriving about 10 minutes early to check-in for your reservation. Once you have checked in, you will be given a menu that lists the […]

Out of this World Dining at Oga’s Cantina

10/8/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • Dining in Hollywood Studios' Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is something that is not to be missed! At Oga’s Cantina in the heart of Batuu- you can experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of the land! Dining reservations are highly recommended for Oga’s Cantina, but you can always inquire about walk-in seating. There is both a standing-room-only bar as well as some booths with seating along the periphery of the cantina. It’s hard to escape the upbeat atmosphere of Oga’s! With a deejay robot spinning the hits of the galactic airwaves- it’s hard not to get swept up into the excitement and energy of the cantina! And while the atmosphere alone is reason to visit Oga’s- I was pleasantly surprised by the food and drink I ordered! While looking at the menu- you will notice that there are a number of different options throughout the day- and several options for alcoholic […]

Restaurant Review: The Hollywood Brown Derby

8/6/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • Hollywood Studios has always been one of my favorite Disney Parks, in part due to the nod to old Hollywood. It makes perfect sense that The Hollywood Brown Derby is my favorite restaurant in Hollywood Studios.  Walking into the lobby you will find a guest book filled with signatures, you might even find one from a Disney star or two. Once checked in, the host or hostess will take you to the dining room which is filled with that old Hollywood glamour. You will find caricatures of some familiar famous faces on the walls, rounded booths on the outside of the room, and tables in the center. This signature dining experience will cost you two table service credit at both lunch and dinner. This restaurant also offers a Fantasmic Dining package, which is a great way to get the best value for your 2 credits. With the Fantasmic Package, you […]

Treehouse Villas Tour at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

7/12/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • When larger parties are traveling to Walt Disney World, it’s good to know that unique lodging options are available.  At Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, guests have the opportunity to book a stay at the Treehouse Villas and experience an amazing getaway! The Treehouse Villas are great for parties up to 9 adults.  Each treehouse is secluded into a cozy wooded area, with views of woods or water, with a private deck and seating area, as well as a ‘park-style’ grill for some lovely evening hotdogs. Raised above the earth to look as if they are part of a tree, these villas are really exciting to see! Inside, the Treehouse Villas are beautifully decorated in a rustic, cabin style - boasting a queen bed, a bunk bed, a convertible couch, chair, shared bathroom, as well as a master suite with queen bed and bathroom. An in-room washer and dryer […]

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop {Dining Review}

7/8/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • If you have not had the opportunity to experience Beaches and Cream, add it to your bucket list!  Beaches and Cream is located at Disney’s Beach Club Resort near the Stormalong Bay pool! If you are visiting Epcot or Hollywood Studios, it is a quick walk or boat ride, or you can take a bus from Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs. Upon entering the restaurant, it feels like a time warp to a 50’s soda shop!  There is limited table seating, but we have enjoyed sitting at the counter! Not only is it a unique experience, but the counter seating is a front row view for watching the creation of the amazing ice cream creations! I would describe the menu as classic comfort food.  Delicious burgers, grilled cheese, tomato bisque, and chicken salad to name just a few.  The classic sides include French fries, onion rings, soup, and […]

Disney Spring’s Wine Bar George

6/11/2019 • Reviews, Walt Disney World • When one thinks theme parks, sophistication doesn’t usually come to mind. However, Disney Springs is changing the game with several new additions of James Beard award-winning restaurants, including the only wine bar in Florida led by a Master Sommelier, Wine Bar George. George Miliotes is one of only 256 Master Sommeliers in the world and he brings his passion and expertise to Disney Springs. Wine Bar George offers more than 140 wines available by the glass! In addition, they offer hand-crafted cocktails and craft beers alongside a full menu of small plates, cheese and charcuterie, family-style plates, and sweets. As if that wasn’t enough, Wine Bar George features Wine Country Brunch with the famed Dole Whipped Mimosa which is perfect for the 90-degree days in Orlando. I can speak first-hand that these are delicious and really hit the spot when you’re out in the heat. My husband and I were […]