While ESPN+ was launched just about five years ago, the sports network doesn’t appear to be done in streaming just yet. The Wall Street Journal reports that ESPN’s flagship network is preparing to transition into a subscription-based streaming service in the coming years. ESPN, the Disney-owned premier sports television network, appears to be preparing to move […]
The post ESPN Reportedly Preparing to Transition to Subscription-Streaming Service appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
DFB is all about the FOOD at Walt Disney World. ALL kinds of Disney food. And that means making sure that families with special dietary concerns (gluten-free, vegetarian, etc.) have the information they need to create safe and delicious meal plans for their vacation.
Have you wondered about vegan dining in Walt Disney World? We’re happy to share — vegans CAN eat well at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, especially with a little advanced planning.
Plant Based Sausage
For starters, in October 2019, Disney announced that every major table and counter service restaurant in both Walt Disney World and Disneyland Resort would offer plant-based options! You will find menus with plant-based options that are available throughout Walt Disney World, these items “are made with no animal meat, dairy, eggs or honey. They are made with ingredients that come from plants, including grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, seeds and legumes.”
Finding those items on Disney menus is even easier these days.
Plant-Based Logo
Just look for the Leaf icon on restaurant menus!
Recently, we’ve spotted more and more options for vegans. Animal Kingdom is actually a great park to find plant-based eats.
Are you ready for more suggestions? Let’s dig into some vegan meal and snack options at Animal Kingdom! You didn’t think we’d let you go without a few SNACK recommendations, did you? Some of the most beloved and iconic Disney snacks (Mickey pretzels, popcorn, and Dole Whip) just so happen to be vegan! And yes, the popcorn uses a dairy-free butter flavoring.
Popcorn is a great vegan snack!
Just remember that Disney menus are constantly changing, so always inquire about your vegan options before placing an order. At many restaurants, it’s all about customization.
Feel free to mention your dietary concerns to the Cast Member taking your order.
Keep an eye out for fresh fruit!
At various kiosks (Harambe Fruit Market, etc.), keep an eye out for chips, pretzels, and fruit. Also, watch for menu items that can be easily altered. For instance, the grilled corn at Harambe Fruit Market can be ordered without butter.
Dino-Bite Snacks is located in the DinoLand, U.S.A. section of the park.
Dino-Bite Snacks has vegan ice cream!
Choose from a Mickey Pretzel or vegan ice cream. Yes, the waffle cone is vegan!
Sure, Drinkwallah has basic chips, but there are some other options here that make a stop here worth your time. For fun munching, grab some Cinnamon Glazed Almonds and Pecans.
Cinnamon Glazed Nuts are Vegan!
If you’re looking for something to quench your thirst, we suggest one of the frozen beverages.
Enjoy a tasty Frozen Lemonade
Choose from Coke, Fanta Blue Raspberry, or Minute Maid Premium Lemonade.
Take a refreshing break in Africa! The Impossible Empanadas were introduced in 2022 for Hispanic and Latin American Heritage Month and fortunately they stuck around!
Impossible empanadas
Made with flaky Latin dough filled with plant-based picadillo, the dipping sauce complements the empanadas very well.
Pongu Pongu is a location dedicated to serving beverages and snacks to guests visiting Pandora — The World of AVATAR.
Behold the Colossal Pretzel!
If you’re a fan of soft, chewy, and perfectly salted pretzels, you should totally LOVE the Colossal Pretzel (just omit the cheese sauce). This massive snack practically melts in your mouth.
Look for the classic Dole Whip at this hidden gem in Africa.
Simba Sunset DOLE Whip Treat
The Simba Sunset Dole Whip features pineapple Dole Whip topped with a red syrup flavored with strawberry, watermelon, and coconut. The additional tropical tastes are an awesome complement!
When dining at quick service locations, mention your dietary concerns before ordering. A manager or chef should be able to help.
Creature Comforts is the Starbucks location in this park. Order coffee and tea with plant-based milk.
Watch for plant-based specials!
Don’t forget to specify non-dairy (like oatmilk) when ordering!
Flame Tree Barbecue is where guests with a beastly hunger can dine in a lush outdoor paradise overlooking Discovery River.
Expedition Everest View from Seating at Flame Tree Barbecue
Besides French Fries, there’s a solid vegan option here — the Hot Link Smokehouse Sandwich. It’s a Plant-based Sausage topped with a Tangy Mustard Barbecue Sauce, Slaw, and Crispy Onions on a House-made New England-style Roll.
The Hot Link Sandwich
To get a true expert’s opinion, we sent in one of our reporters who typically eats a plant-based diet. What did they think? Well, they found that the plant-based “sausage” was actually really nicely seasoned and had a bit of kick to it! Now, there’s no need to be worried — it wasn’t too spicy, and the slaw on top cuts through the spice that is there with a cooling crunch.
Would You Try It?
If you’re a plant-based eater, vegetarian, or just someone who wants a sandwich that is light, tastes good, and comes with a side of delicious Disney fries (of course), this could be a great pick for you.
Step inside an East African marketplace that welcomes guests from around the globe who are visiting Harambe while on their safari adventures.
Harambe Market
Here, you’ll find a Hot Link Bowl (Plant-based “Sausage” with Cilantro Rice and Mixed Greens topped with Salsa). This is a filling vegetarian option in Animal Kingdom and could come in handy if you can’t find another vegetarian dish you like!
Hot Link Bowl
However, there are some better vegetarian options around the park.
Pizzafari offers quick service meals in a colorful, environment featuring animal murals.
Pizzafari
For guests craving pizza, simply request a vegan cheese pizza. Otherwise, we suggest trying the Greens and Grains Salad (Mixed Greens topped with Garbanzo Beans, White Beans, Red Onions, Pepperoncini, Kalamata Olives, Tomatoes, Quinoa, and Green Goddess Dressing).
Folks with a dino-sized appetite should stop at Restaurantosaurus for a quick ‘dig’ into good eats!
Impossible Burger
Here, we recommend the Impossible
Spicy Southwestern Burger. This is a Plant-based Burger Patty with “Pepper Jack”, Chipotle Sauce, Lettuce, and Tomato. The Kids’ Meals also include a plain Impossible burger.
Satu’li Canteen is quite immersive when it comes to bringing guests into the story of Pandora. But what’s even more noteworthy is that the experience is carried over into the food with some unusual options that you really won’t find elsewhere in Disney World.
Satu’li Bowl with Tofu
Try the Chili-Spiced Crispy Fried Tofu Bowl!
The experience of travel is celebrated at Nomad Lounge, so bring your sense of adventure!
Impossible Burger Sliders at Nomad Lounge
There are a few options here including Impossible Burger Sliders (omit the Chipotle Aioli), Poke Bowl with Tofu, Modified Bread Service, and Impossible “Chow”.
Get ready for a wild time!
Rainforest Cafe at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The vegan options here include Anaconda Pasta (without cheese), Lava Nachos (no beef, cheese, or sour cream), Impossible Burger (request vegan), Korean Spicy Stir Fry (no Chicken), and the Ancient Grain Bowl (request vegan).
Tiffins offers Signature Dining with celebration of travel serving as the central theme.
Tiffins
Check with the chef as to which items are vegan with the Tiffins Signature Bread Service. By omitting the pesto and yogurt sauce, the Spiced Chickpea Falafel becomes a tasty option. The Land Salad can be enjoyed without the cheese & breadcrumbs. Other vegan menu items include the Plant-Based Tacos, Szechuan Noodles, Tropical Trifle, and Impossible Bunny Chow.
Spiced Chickpea Falafel
Honestly, we could go to Tiffins JUST to get the Spiced Chickpea Falafel!
The food at this all-you-care-to-enjoy character buffet is flavorful and interesting. For plant-based eaters, there are options like Cauliflower Bunny Chow and “Fiesty” Green Beans. Also, plant-based are the Jollof Rice (with plant-based sausage) and the North African Harira Soup.
Plant-based foods at Tusker House
When dining at a buffet, we recommend that you ask the Chef to show you which items are vegan.
Yak and Yeti Restaurant is a unique and beautifully themed dining location. Speak to your server about dishes that can be modified vegan. Some menu items can be made with tofu, for example.
Lettuce Cups
See if you can modify the Vegetable Lo Mein, Seared Miso Salmon, Lettuce Cups, or Sweet and Sour Chicken (substituting tofu), Veggie Bowl, House Salad, Steamed Rice, and the Beyond Burger. Inquire as to which sauces can be swapped, such as soy instead of oyster.
Make Advance Dining Reservations before your trip. The vegan dining process can begin right away — we recommend noting that you are vegan when you create the reservation. If you call (407) WDW-DINE to make a reservation, ask the Cast Member to note your dietary restrictions.
Remember to always ask your server or a chef if an item is vegan. Walt Disney World restaurants are constantly changing ingredients and suppliers. Even if you’re a vegan, you can find a bunch of great food at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
Though it is far less difficult these days for vegans to find options throughout Walt Disney World, as with other guests dining with special diet concerns, you may wish to note that there is a plant-based guest in your dining party on any Advance Dining Reservations you make for Table Service restaurants. We recommend clearly noting your restrictions (no eggs, no meat, no dairy, no honey, etc.).
Of course, if you would like to learn more about your options even prior to making your Advance Dining Reservations, you can peruse individual restaurant menus on the Walt Disney World website or visit the Walt Disney World website’s Plant-based Dining Guide page.
If you are dining at a Counter Service location which accepts Mobile Order, keep your eyes peeled for the Plant-based icon! (Not familiar with Mobile Order? Learn more here!)
Check out our DFB YouTube Video about some of the BEST Disney World restaurants for vegan and vegetarian dining!
Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.
Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!
Save 25% on the 2023 DFB Guide to Walt Disney World Dining with code WDW2023.
The post Animal Kingdom Vegan Ultimate Guide 2023 & 2024 first appeared on the disney food blog.
There’s never a dull moment at the happiest place on Earth. From the moment you walk through the Disneyland gates in the morning to the moment you leave at night, you can pack in TONS of attractions, character interactions, and more! But compared to Walt Disney World in Florida, Disneyland is, well, small.
Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland
Over the past few years, Disney created a new Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure and opened new restaurants in Downtown Disney. What if Imagineers could bring even MORE new offerings to Disneyland Resort? Well, there are plans for an expansion, and Disneyland Resort President Ken Potrock recently provided an update on the project.
Disneyland President Ken Potrock met at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel to discuss some BIG plans.
It’s been a while since we’ve discussed the DisneylandForward project, so let’s break it down. In short, DisneylandForward is a collaborative project between Disney and Anaheim to expand Disneyland Resort. Tentative plans call for updating the existing theme park blueprints and boosting the local economy through new offerings. It is important to note that the plans remain within Disney’s existing 500-acre property; there is no physical expansion or additional acreage being added to Disneyland Resort.
DisneylandForward concept art ©Disney
During Potrock’s recent presentation, guests previewed several concept art renderings from Disney theme park projects around the globe, according to the Orange County Register. Potrock showed off concept art for some upcoming Tokyo Disneyland additions and the Zootopia-themed land planned for Shanghai Disneyland.
Zootopia-themed land!
In discussing those upcoming projects, Disney’s Global Development vice president Rachel Alde said, “What we would love is for those future innovations to have a spot here in Anaheim,” according to Orange County Register. Could this mean that Disney has plans to bring Tangled or Frozen-themed additions to Disneyland? We’ll have to wait and see!
World of Frozen Hong Kong ©Disney
In the meantime, the OC Register explained that “a draft environmental impact study is expected to be completed by the summer with the DisneylandForward proposal going before the Anaheim Planning Commission before the end of the year and the City Council in early 2024.” Before Disney can start any construction or move forward, it will need more flexibility and approvals from the city.
©Disney
As we’ve previously reported, current plans indicate that Disney is looking for “mixed-use” flexibility to allow hotel AND entertainment on the same parcel. The proposal also lays out plans for potential “new theme park attractions on the Downtown Disney and Lilo and Stitch parking lots woven amid the Disneyland Hotel and Paradise Pier Hotel,” according to Orange County Register.
©Disney
If the plans are approved, Disneyland could generate THOUSANDS of jobs, $11 million in tax revenue, and $1.1 billion in economic output in Anaheim for every billion dollars spent, according to a study reported in Orange County Register. (Credit to @ScottGustin on Twitter for additional details)
Disneyland President Ken Potrock spoke during a business luncheon on Wednesday to provide updates on the DisneylandForward project. The presentation included some familiar “possible” artwork, but the primary focus was on the potential economic impact to Anaheim and Orange County. pic.twitter.com/Ynd8Knf8dT
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) May 18, 2023
While we wait for further updates, we can daydream about potential new dining and entertainment offerings in Disneyland. We’re keeping our fingers crossed for some EPIC new attractions! In the meantime, we’re always on the lookout for the latest Disney news, so stay tuned for more.
What would you like to see arrive in Disneyland? Let us know in the comments!
The post Disneyland Executives Share UPDATE on Theme Park Expansion Project first appeared on the disney food blog.
Florida Governor DeSantis’ legal team has filed a motion to disqualify Chief Judge Mark E. Walker from the court case between DeSantis, his Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Board of Supervisors, and Disney.
Here is the motion in full:
Defendants move to disqualify Chief Judge Mark E. Walker (the Court) under 28 U.S.C. § 455(a) because the Court’s impartiality in this matter might reasonably be questioned. This case involves claims that Defendants retaliated against Walt Disney Parks and Resorts U.S., Inc. based on Disney’s viewpoints. Yet two previous times, in two unrelated cases, the Court sua sponte offered “Disney” as an example of state retaliation. Those remarks—each derived from extrajudicial sources—were on the record, in open court, and could reasonably imply that the Court has prejudged the retaliation question here. Because that question is now before this Court, and because that question involves highly publicized matters of great interest to Florida’s citizens, the Court should disqualify itself to prevent even the appearance of impropriety.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Martin Fitzpatrick previously recused himself from the lawsuit because he is related “in the third degree” to someone employed by one of the parties, and sought to avoid any potential conflict of interest by stepping aside.
This is regarding Disney’s lawsuit against DeSantis and the Board of Supervisors. Disney recently filed a motion in Florida state court in Orange County to declare the CFTOD Board’s countersuit “moot.”
In their lawsuit against Governor DeSantis and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District Board, Disney Parks & Resorts cites “a targeted campaign of government retaliation — orchestrated at every step by Governor DeSantis as punishment for Disney’s protected speech.” The plaintiff further argues that this chronology of events “threatens Disney’s business operations, jeopardizes its economic future in the region, and violates its constitutional rights.”
Among other grievances, the Governor’s threat of new tolls and taxes, and the Board’s decision to void the company’s final agreement with the Reedy Creek Improvement District Board were included in the document.
They name Governor DeSantis, the CFTOD Board of Supervisors members, and now former District administrator John Classe. Glen Gilzean, Jr. is the new District administrator.
Disney is suing for “declaratory and injunctive relief.” Injunctive relief forces a party to act in a certain way or prevents them from doing various things.
Disney regrets that it has come to this, but having exhausted efforts to seek a resolution, the Company is left with no choice but to file this lawsuit to protect its cast members, guests, and local development partners from a relentless campaign to weaponize government power against Disney in retaliation for expressing a political viewpoint unpopular with certain State officials.
The federal judge originally attached to the lawsuit recused himself.
The CFTOD Board of Supervisors voted to file their own countersuit against Disney. While Disney’s lawsuit is through federal court, the Board’s lawsuit is through state court.
In their 188-page complaint, the Central Florida Tourism Oversight District named itself as the plaintiff and Walt Disney Parks and Resorts US Inc. as the defendant. Through nearly 200 pages of legalese, the district asks the state court to render Disney’s development agreement with the Reedy Creek Improvement District as unenforceable, null, and void. They also ask the same to be done of the restrictive covenants, which notably set the benchmark for expiry at 21 years after the death of the last living descendant of King Charles III, living as of the date of the document.
The CFTOB additionally asks that all agreements cannot be enforced on Disney’s end either. Meanwhile, the Florida Legislature, which is controlled by Republicans and typically acts to rubber stamp Gov. DeSantis’ agenda, is working to pass a law that invalidates Disney’s agreement with Reedy Creek. Governor DeSantis said it was well within his power to do so.
The Florida Governor and Walt Disney Company initially clashed over the corporation’s opposition to a much-debated and controversial Florida law regarding classroom instruction and discussion on sexual orientation and gender identity in public schools, alongside various other recent state laws and proposals in a similar vein.
Bob Chapek was Chief Executive Officer at the time and initially remained silent and passive on the issue — until massive internal criticisms from cast members and controversy over Disney’s practice of making hefty political contributions to campaigns and individuals allegedly against their own stated human principles came into focus.
In an apparent act of retribution over Chapek’s expression of dissent, the Governor moved forward with various verbal and legal assaults on Disney, including the attempted dissolution of Reedy Creek and the eventual transfer of power directly under his control. DeSantis argues he is attacking a rather vague perception of something he calls “woke politics,” invading the state. He further says he aims to put the people of Florida first through his actions:
Disney has gotten away with special deals from the state of Florida for way too long. It took a look under the hood to see what Disney has become to truly understand their inappropriate influence.
The Governor insists he will double down on efforts to punish the resort through methods both in the Legislature and the Central Florida Tourism Oversight Board. Notably, he promised to hike hotel taxes and institute tolls on the roads around Walt Disney World Resort property. He also threatened to build a prison on Walt Disney World land and signed a bill into law requiring state inspections of Monorails.
A recent poll showed Americans are mostly split about whether or not Disney and Governor DeSantis have behaved “appropriately,” but think the court should rule in Disney’s favor.
The post Governor DeSantis Files to Disqualify Judge From Disney Lawsuit appeared first on WDW News Today.
Young actor Jamaal Avery Jr. is just getting started in the entertainment industry, but he’s already set to appear in the upcoming musical remake of The Color Purple and has guest-starred on ABC’s smash-hit mockumentary sitcom Abbott Elementary.And just recently, Avery made his debut as the voice of ambitious Jedi youngling Kai Brightstar in Lucasfilm’s new […]
The post Interview – Actor Jamaal Avery Jr. Discusses His Role as Kai Brightstar in “Star Wars: Young Jedi Adventures” appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
Disney has shared concept art of a new Steamboat Willie splash pad that will open with The Villas at Disneyland Hotel later this year.
Beginning on September 28, 2023, guests staying at this exciting new Disney Vacation Club property will have the opportunity to bask in the California sun in the brand-new Palette Pool area, an inviting oasis designed for relaxation and play.
The new refreshing retreat includes the Palette Pool, Palm Breeze Bar, and a whimsical splash pad incorporating elements from “Steamboat Willie.”
Visit Disney Parks Blog to see a video of the splash pad’s water effects.
A large grayscale model inspired by the boat in “Steamboat Willie” will be helmed by none other than Mickey Mouse as it springs to life with imaginative water play features. From the boat’s cascading waterfall, misty fog effects rising from the boat’s funnels and a variety of pop jets and fountains, little ones are sure to have a splashtastic time!
Guests will be able to soak up more inspiration by taking a dip in the crystal-clear, palette-shaped swimming pool or by recharging in the rainbow glow of multicolored lounge areas in this mid-century modern hangout.
Guests can also enjoy refreshing drinks and snacks at Palm Breeze Bar. This delightful outdoor venue will feature modern decor inspired by the imaginative artistry of Disney Legend, Mary Blair. You may recognize Mary Blair’s quirky designs from the timeless attraction, “it’s a small world” or the fanciful murals in the Grand Canyon Concourse at Disney’s Contemporary Resort in Florida. However, her unique styling and bold use of color influenced the artistry of so many Disney Animation films, including some featured in the rooms at the Villas at the Disneyland Hotel!
And the Disney magic continues long after the sun sets on the Palette Pool. Families can watch their technicolor dreams come true as the Steamboat Willie splash pad transforms from black and white to vivid colors with the help of some artistic lighting.
The Villas at Disneyland Hotel will be the fourth tower at the award-winning Disneyland Hotel, offering more than 340 rooms and welcoming guests to a variety of villa-style themed accommodations featuring just-like-home amenities. Each room will showcase modern décor inspired by Disney Animation classics such as “The Jungle Book,” “Sleeping Beauty,” “The Princess and the Frog,” “Fantasia” and more.
Disney Vacation Club sales for The Villas at Disneyland Hotel are available for all existing members and open to the public on May 30. Existing Disney Vacation Club members can start making reservations for the brand-new tower using their membership starting today.
For more Disneyland Resort news and info, follow Disneyland News Today on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. For Disney Parks news worldwide, visit WDWNT.
The post CONCEPT ART: Steamboat Willie Splash Pad Coming Soon to The Villas at Disneyland Hotel appeared first on WDW News Today.
There is a new design on the Loungefly horizon, and this one is for Disney fans who appreciate classic tales like Lady and the Tramp. The new Mini Backpack and Wallet are the perfect addition to any collection for this iconic tale.
The very picture of happiness! Our exclusive Loungefly Disney Lady and the Tramp Portrait House Zip Around Wallet is a must-have accessory for those wishing to fall in love all over again with this classic film. On the front, Lady and Tramp stand before a charming Victorian house, brought to life in applique detail, the pointed roofline rising up over the top of the wallet. Original art fills the scene. On the back, a curious pup has discovered a newspaper on the front lawn. Inside the wallet, you’ll find 4 slots for holding cards and 1 clear slot for displaying your ID. A die-cut shape of a pawprint on the clear ID slot adds a playful touch. Set off on your own adventures in classic Disney style—or pose for a picture-perfect snapshot of your own.
The Loungefly Disney Lady and the Tramp Portrait House Zip Around Wallet is made of vegan leather (polyurethane). Wallet zips closed with shiny gold-colored metal hardware. Additional features include applique, debossed, and printed details. Take note of the coordinating inside lining.
This wallet is an officially licensed Disney product.
Wallet dimensions: 6”W x 4”H
Loungefly Website
The very picture of happiness! Our exclusive Loungefly Disney Lady and the Tramp Portrait House Mini Backpack is a must-have accessory for those wishing to fall in love all over again with this classic film. On the front, Lady and Tramp stand before a charming Victorian house, brought to life in applique detail. Original art fills every scene. On the side pockets, you’ll find delightful pups playing in the garden or discovering the newspaper left on the front lawn. On the back, the entire family gathers at Lady’s doghouse for a heartwarming moment. Set off on your own adventures in classic Disney style—or pose for a picture-perfect snapshot of your own.
The Loungefly Disney Lady and the Tramp Portrait House Mini Backpack is made of vegan leather (polyurethane). Bag has adjustable shoulder straps, side pockets, and shiny gold-colored metal hardware. Additional features include applique and printed details. Take note of the coordinating inside lining.
This backpack is an officially licensed Disney product.
Backpack dimensions: 9”W x 10.5”H x 4.5”D
Loungefly Website
The post New ‘Lady and the Tramp’ Portrait House Loungefly Set first appeared on DIS.
When The Villas at Disneyland Hotel opens this fall, a new pool area will debut as well. This includes a fun “Steamboat Willie”-inspired splash pad — which the Disney Parks Blog has shared another look at. What’s Happening: The Disneyland Resort has shared concept art highlighting the “Steamboat Willie” Splash Pad coming to The Villas […]
The post Disneyland Resort Shares Another Look at “Steamboat Willie” Splash Pad Coming to The Villas at Disneyland Hotel appeared first on LaughingPlace.com.
