Favorites on Friday: Soup

From time to time on Fridays, we feature various favorites from Disney Parks- favorite foods, favorite attractions, favorite spots, and more. This time, we're talking soup...


Snow and frigid temperatures here make me think of one thing: soup!

Today's Favorite on Friday is my favorite soup- the Smoky Portobello Soup from Artist Point, at Disney's Wilderness Lodge.

It's not just my favorite soup- it's also quite possibly the most delicious thing I've ever had on Disney property.

It's that good, folks.

Smoky Portobello Soup, Artist Point

The soup is a creamy portobello puree, with flavors incredibly intense and richly layered. It's topped with chive oil and crispy roasted shitake mushrooms, which somehow end up with a taste and consistency that can be describes as... baconesque. The presentation was lovely- an oversized platter-rimmed bowl, framing a serving of soup in such a way that you just know you're about to taste something exquisite. Alas, the serving size is smaller than I would have liked. It leaves you wanting more- but I'm not sure if it's really a small serving, or if it just feels this way because it's so delicious. I could have eaten three bowls in rapid succession. I want some right now.

With all the incredible food options at the parks and resorts, is it crazy to think that a soup is my absolute favorite? Taste the Smoky Portobello Soup at Artist Point, and let me know...

Have you tried this soup? What's your favorite dish? Tell us in the comments...

Favorites on Friday: The Boardwalk Inn Lobby

The Boardwalk...

There's something special about a good hotel lobby.  One of my favorites is the lobby of Disney's Boardwalk Inn. Harkening back to the turn-of-the-century heyday of boardwalk culture, this is an upscale representation of coastal destinations like Coney Island and Atlantic City. The hotel, situated in the Epcot resort area just beyond World Showcase, is one of Disney's finest...

The majestic lobby of the Boardwalk Inn is one of the best places to relax, people watch, and  soak in all the attention to detail...

A replica of a wooden coaster from days gone by...

The veranda just off the lobby overlooks the boardwalk and Crescent Lake...

This miniature carousel is intricately detailed. Keep your eyes open for a few Hidden Mickeys...

Amazing detail in the light fixtures, each themed to the sea:

And last but not least, perhaps the most disturbing chair found on Walt Disney World property:

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Have you spent any time in the lobby of The Boardwalk Inn?

Favorites on Friday: Vegetarian Fare at Bradley Falls, Disney's Animal Kingdom

Almost all of my visits to Walt Disney World have been as a vegetarian. WDW is a great place to be a veg, with options at practically every restaurant and eatery throughout the parks and resorts. Some places, however, have more to offer than others. I always felt Animal Kingdom was lacking in the kind of food I wanted to eat. Sure, there are a few offerings to be found here and there, but most places never seemed to have the kind of thing I was looking for. There was one notable exception, though: the eggroll stand, now known as Bradley Falls kiosk.

photo courtesy of www.easywdw.com

Found on the walkway between Asia and Africa, this little stand featured my favorite veggie eggroll snack (or meal, if I doubled my order).

Farewell old friend...

When I heard they were changing their menu last year, I was worried. Would they still have my favorite veggie treat? It turns, the answer to that was no. However, I was thrilled to discover that while my veggie eggroll was gone, in its place was a whole new menu, completely vegetarian!

The Summer Rolls are tasty and light, filled with fresh veggies, rice noodles, and accompanied by a peanut dipping sauce. The sauce is a bit different than your typical peanut sauce- a little thicker, and with a flavor I couldn't quite put my finger on. Actually, my favorite use for the sauce was mixing it into the Asian Noodle Salad (a salad so delicious, it was 3/4 gone before I remembered I hadn't yet snapped a photo).

I did not sample the edamame, but I've heard good reviews. We rounded out the meal with a fruit salad- fresh, ripe, and not a soft grape or squishy blueberry to be found! Expensive for a fruit salad? Sure. But it was 50 cents cheaper than the weak one I saw at the airport a few days later, and the airport one was definitely not served in a pineapple...

Where to relax with your food? There happens to be a perfect seating area close by. It's nestled in across the path, next to the river, with an amazing view of the Tree of Life.

Are you interested in reading more about Bradley Falls kiosk? For a different take on this food stand, including shots of the noodle dish and the fantastic seating area, visit easywdw.com's post here.

Look for this trash can  in the seating area.

Have you ever been to the Bradley Falls kiosk? What's your favorite vegetarian fare at Animal Kingdom? Tell us in the comments...

Favorites on Friday: The Epcot Glass

I first saw the glass a few years ago in MouseGear, the shopping mecca located in Epcot's Future World. This gorgeous cobalt blue pint glass, with retro logo and a mirror-finish inside- it was calling my name. There was a whole corner of the store displaying these beauties. I had to have one, despite not having any room for it in my suitcase. I ended up carrying it in my hand on the flight home.

I returned several months later, and much to my surprise- there were now matching shot glasses! How could I pass that up? I started chatting with a Cast Member stocking the shelf. He told me that there are technically no shot glasses at WDW- they're officially called "tiny glasses", a term which supposedly has a more family-friendly ring to it. True? I'm not sure...but I like that tiny glass moniker.

I considered buying more of the pint glasses- why not go for a whole set? I'm a firm believer in having back-ups of favorite items, especially when they're breakable items. But one thing led to another on that trip, and before I knew it, I was returning home- no pint glasses secured. At least I had my new tiny glass.

I then found myself in the unbelievably lucky position of having to attend a work conference in Orlando just a short time later. I extended the trip by a few days- of course- so I could return to the parks. This time I was prepared! I used a larger suitcase, and made sure I had plenty of room. I was on a mission! I headed straight to MouseGear. Straight to my cobalt corner.

But wait a minute- hang on- what were all those tropical colors I saw up ahead? What's with all the floral? Where's my cobalt??

A new design scheme had taken over. Reds, pinks, and oranges were everywhere. Characters had taken the place of Epcot logos on the merchandise. No, they didn't have them displayed elsewhere. No, they didn't have any remnants "in the back".

My retro Epcot cobalt ship had sailed.

Consider this a Public Service Announcement:

Do not wait to buy something you really want. It may not be there when you return! Take heed of the moral of this story: if you like it- get it! Don't wait! You never know when something might be gone for good...

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How about you? Have you ever waited too long for a special item, only to be disappointed later? Did you learn your lesson? Do you have a favorite glass from WDW? Tell us in the comments...

Favorites on Friday: Souvenirs

From time to time on Fridays, we feature various favorites from Disney Parks- favorite foods, favorite attractions, favorite spots, and more. This time, we're talking souvenirs...

Do you have favorite souvenir, something you get each time you go on vacation? For some it's a t-shirt, or maybe a new set of Mickey ears. Others swear by the snow globe, or maybe a keychain.

For my favorite souvenir, we once again visit the Japanese pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase. This is the second visit back to Japan for Favorites on Friday, the first being the scrumptious Okonomiyaki.

Some of the best shopping in Epcot can be found in the Japanese pavilion. Mitsukoshi Department Store is home to one of the most varied arrays of souvenirs found anywhere. From Hello Kitty to traditional Japanese calligraphy brushes, fine jewelry to anime hair clips, authentic kimonos to books and toys- it can all be found in this spacious shop, stretching the length of the pavilion. A Pick-a-Pearl station is found near the front of the store, and the far end houses an assortment of packaged Japanese snacks and candy that I can only describe as... well, indescribable.

Just before you get to the snacks, you’ll find a room full of the souvenir I can never pass up: ceramic sushi bowls. Bowls and plates in all shapes and sizes, all colors and patterns, each one a beautiful piece of art. The bowls range in price, but most are from $4.00 to $9.00 each. At least a few of these come home with me, every time… 

Have you ever visited Mitsukoshi? Do you have a favorite WDW souvenir? 

Tell us about it in the comments...

Favorites on Friday: Disney's Magical Express

Todays' Favorite on Friday is one of my favorite Disney services:  

Disney's Magical Express.

Disney's Magical Express is a complimentary bus service that shuttles guests between Orlando International Airport and their Disney Resort. When you use Magical Express, your checked luggage can also be delivered to your room, directly from the airport- no need for you to retrieve it yourself from the baggage area! A few weeks in advance of your departure, you'll receive a Magical Express envelope in the mail. You'll get a booklet with airport and baggage information, and a yellow Magical Express tag to put on your luggage. The tag has your name, as well as the resort name and resort area code. You'll say goodbye to your checked bags at your home airport, and the next time you see them, you'll be in your resort room! (You may also opt to retrieve and transport your luggage with you on the bus, if you prefer.)

Booklet and luggage tag. "EC" indicates that this bag is going to an Epcot area resort- specifically, Boardwalk.

Once you touch down in Orlando, simply follow the signs down two levels and head for the Magical Express Welcome Center. Cast members at podiums will scan your booklet and direct you to the proper line. Each line serves several resorts.

Depending on the time of day and the day of the week you arrive, you may have a short wait until it's time to board a bus. Which bus you get will vary- sometimes it will be branded with the Magical Express name, and sometimes you'll get a Disney Cruise Line bus. (During busier times, you may actually end up with a third party bus. Hopefully that won't happen- it's a little less...magical.)

Even though I'm usually in a hurry to arrive at my destination, I like when we make stops along the way- it gives me a chance to catch a glimpse of other resorts! Ride times vary, but you can usually count on about an hour between the time you arrive in Orlando and the time you check in to your resort. Once the bus is on the highway- a short ride out from the airport- the welcome video starts to play! Favorite characters greet you and give an entertaining rundown on what you're about to experience. Classic Disney animated shorts then play for the remainder of the trip, until you arrive at your resort destination.

I was surprised when I learned that some people don't like to use the Magical Express service. They prefer to have a car with them at Walt Disney World. They don't like waiting around for buses or boats, they want to be able to easily go offsite, they want the freedom of coming & going as they please. I'm definitely not one of these people! I love not having to drive, not having to park, not having to navigate traffic, not having to worry about having a few adult beverages as I stroll the parks and resorts. Not having to deal with airport rental counters? Also great. I'd rather leave all aspects of the driving to someone else.

Yes, the Magical Express to Walt Disney World is one of my favorite things. Do you know what's NOT one of my favorite things? Do you know what's actually one of the worst things ever?

There you are, going about about your vacation, having the best experience ever, and then...it happens. One morning you wake up, and slipped under your door you find...this:

The dreaded return envelope. This is the harsh smack back to reality: vacation is ending. The paperwork inside tells you what time you need to meet the bus the following day. It's always way earlier than you think it should be. The Magical Express schedules you for bus departure approximately three hours before your flight time, to make absolutely sure you'll be to the airport and through security with plenty of time to spare. If you're flying with a participating airline, you can even check your bags and get your boarding pass right at your resort- extremely convenient.

The return trip to the airport when vacation is over is one of the saddest trips you'll ever take. Many a tear has been shed on these return buses. Sadly, this is where the Magical Express becomes known as the Tragical Express. I have no idea who first thought of that play on words, but it was no doubt someone who was headed back to the airport after an amazing Disney vacation...


Have you used Disney's Magical Express? What do you think of the service? Or, are you one of those people who prefers to drive yourself when you're on vacation? Tell us about your experience in the comment section!

Favorites on Friday: The Stave Church

One of my favorite places in all of Walt Disney World is The Stave Church in Norway. Countless people pass by this favorite each day, unaware of the hidden gem that lies behind the wooden doors. Located at the front of Epcot's Norway pavilion in the World Showcase, this impressive structure is a replica of a Norwegian Stave Church, an architectural design popular in Norway between 1100 and 1200 AD.

The attention to detail is amazing, from the top of the steeple all the way to the elaborately carved designs facing out over World Showcase Lagoon.

Stepping inside is like stepping through a gateway to a different world. It's cool, dimly lit, and quiet. Soft music floats in the air as the doors close and shut out the crowds beyond. When I'm inside the Stave Church, I feel like I've been transported to another place and time. It's usually not crowded, as many people don't realize you can enter the church. I have often been the only person there- something that's hard to accomplish elsewhere in Epcot! When's the last time you were alone in an attraction? For those of us who can't always visit during low attendance periods, this is a rare treat.

Glass cases display artifacts and weaponry, some over 1,000 years old. The displays are well-detailed, and I always find it fascinating to look closely at these tools and weapons- the age is staggering, and I can't help but imagine them in the hands of Vikings, sailing the seas.

photos courtesy of Z.S. Swiss

The dioramas showcase Viking exploration. In addition to artifacts, they also include replicas of ships, as well as a few famous Vikings- like King Olaf II.

My sister and I spent a very long time standing in front of this case, staring endlessly, searching for a Hidden Mickey that was supposedly on  King Olaf II's tunic. We were never able to find it. Apparently this is one of the disappearing Hidden Mickeys- ones that are lost, at least for now. Can you see that fold in the fabric, on the top of his right leg? That's right around the spot the Hidden Mickey used to be. Perhaps a Cast Member shifted the garment the last time Olaf was being dusted?

photo courtesy of Z.S. Swiss

I always make a stop in the Stave Church, and I always continue to check Olaf's tunic for the elusive Hidden Mickey. If you happen to know a Cast Member who works with the Vikings- just a small readjustment of the fabric on Olaf's right thigh is all we need....

Favorites on Friday

From time to time on Fridays, we feature various favorites from Disney Parks- favorite foods, favorite attractions, favorite spots, and more. This time, it's a combination: Favorite Spots and Favorite Foods...

Tucked away above the Japanese pavilion in Epcot is the Katsura Grill- one of my favorite places to head for a bite to eat. More than just a quick service eatery, this area is one of my favorite little getaway spots in all of Epcot. Many people pass right by, never looking up and beyond the koi pond. Follow the path upwards to find a semi-secluded oasis. It's not really hidden, but it just feels...different up here.

Often without a crowd, this vantage point offers some amazing views of the pavilion and of the people strolling the world showcase down below. (Shhh...there's even a bathroom that not many people seem to be aware of). There are tables tucked away in the back corner, tranquil streams and rock formations, and inside the Katura Grill...the delicious morsel known as okonomiyaki:

Okonomiyaki is a savory Japanese pancake, made from a batter filled with cabbage and other vegetables. Preparation of okonomiyaki varies by region and by restaurant, and can often include some kind of meat or seafood. The okonomiyaki  at Katsura is vegetarian. The pancake is grilled on both sides, then topped with a rich  brown sauce. The sauce is hard to describe- somehow tangy, sweet, and savory all at the same time. And no, that's not icing- it's a mayonnaise-like condiment, decoratively finishing the dish. Rich, indeed.

This portion is a great size for sharing as a midday or late night snack. The pancake is thicker than it appears in this photo- it's probably over half an inch thick. It's quite filling- enough to share, unless you plan to make a meal out of it.

The next time you find yourself high above the Japanese Pavilion, I urge you to give okonomiyaki a try... and let me know what you think about this tasty morsel from Japan!

Favorites on Friday....

Fridays will feature various favorites from Disney Parks- favorite foods, favorite attractions, favorite spots, and more. This time, it's Favorite Foods...

Ah, food. A most important part of any visit to the parks and resorts. Countless things are written every day about the magic of food at WDW. (Be sure to check out www.disneyfoodblog.com for the most amazing array of food-related info you could ever want). For many people, a major part of the magic is planning advanced dining reservations, sampling their favorite treats, or trying out new dishes around the parks and resorts.

First up: my favorite salad. I dream about this salad. It's the Roasted Beets and Goat Cheese Salad with sherry dressing, found at Sunshine Seasons in The Land pavilion at Epcot. This is my perfect salad- often attempted at home, but never quite making it to the level of perfection found at Sunshine Seasons. The tender greens, the perfectly-roasted beets, the creamy herbed cheese, the candied pecans, the sesame-sprinkled flatbread ribbon....

Have you tried this salad? What's your favorite salad in WDW?