Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Epcot’s International Food & Wine Festival—Official details announced—Events available for booking July 20th at 7 a.m.

Disney has officially announced the details of the 15th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival. Special event booking begins on July 20th at 7 am by calling 1-407-WDW-FEST (939-3378).

With the theme “Celebrating 15 years of Delicious Discoveries,” this year’s festival combines new and exciting events with old favourites.

First up: The Festival Marketplaces

My favourite part of the Food & Wine Festival is wandering World Showcase and sampling the foods from the Marketplaces. Each year we seek out familiar items from years past and try new items that quickly become our new “favourite”

Below is this year’s official listing of Marketplace Menus. Approximately 50% of the food and beverage selections are new. While prices have not yet been released, typically items range from $3-$7.

Argentina, Introduced: 1996
Roasted Corn and Cheese Empanada NEW
Grilled Beef Skewer with Chimichurri Sauce and Boniato Purée
Bodega Norton Reserva Malbec
Bodega Norton Cosecha Tardía
Kaiken Cabernet NEW
Pasual Toso Torontes NEW

Australia, Introduced: 1997
Seared Barramundi with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes, Arugula, and Lemon Oil
Grilled Lamb Chop with Roasted Potato Salad and Red Wine Reduction NEW
Lamington (sponge cake dipped in chocolate)
Rosemount Traminer Riesling NEW
Marquis Philips, Shiraz NEW
Penfolds Koonunga Hill Shiraz Cabernet
Nugan Estate Riverina Chardonnay NEW

NEW-Belgium, Introduced: 2010
Steamed Mussels with Roasted Garlic Cream
Freshly Baked Waffles with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream
Stella Artois
Godiva Chocolate Iced Coffee
Leffe
Hoegaarden

Brazil, Introduced: 1996
Grilled Pork Skewer with Farofa
Shrimp Stew with Coconut and Lime
Leblon Frozen Caipirinha

Brewer's Collection, Introduced: 2003
Radeberger Pilsner NEW
Schofferhofer Weizen NEW
Hovels NEW
Schlosser, Alt NEW
Altenmünster, Octoberfest NEW
Altenmünster Dunkel NEW
Altenmünster Märzen NEW
Clausthaler Classic N/A NEW

Canada, Introduced: 1996
Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup
Maple-Glazed Salmon with Lentil Salad
Chicken Chipotle Sausage with Sweet Corn Polenta,
Nanaimo Bar NEW
Moosehead Beer
Vidal Icewine
Chateau De Charmes Riesling
St. David's Bench Vineyard Merlot NEW

NEW-Charcuterie & Cheese, Introduced: 2010
Cheese Fondue with Croutons and Roasted Potatoes NEW
Applewood Smoked Beef, Duck; and Ham NEW
MARTINI® Prosecco
Ace Joker Hard Cider NEW
MacMurray Ranch Sonoma Coast Pinot Noir NEW

Chile, Introduced: 1997
Shrimp Ceviche
Pastel de Choclo (Beef and Corn Pie) NEW
Concha y Toro Casillero del Diablo Sauvignon Blanc
Santa Ema Reserve Chardonnay NEW
Casa Carmenere NEW
Montes Classic Cabernet Sauvignon NEW

China, Introduced: 1996
Black Pepper Shrimp with Sichuan Noodles NEW
Pork Pot Stickers
Xinjiang Barbecue Chicken Stick NEW
Tsingtao Beer
Dragon's Hollow Chardonnay
Green Tea Plum Wine Cooler
Happy Lychee

Desserts & Champagne, Introduced: 2000
Strawberry Angel Verrine NEW
Pear Streusel Pudding Cake NEW
Dark Chocolate Sensation NEW
Moët & Chandon: White Star Impérial
Rosé Impérial
Nectar Impérial
Nectar Impérial Rosé

France, Introduced: 1996
Escargots Persillade en Brioche
Braised Short Ribs in Cabernet with Mashed Potatoes
Crème Brulée au Chocolate au Lait
Merlot, Chateau Des Deux Rives, Bordeaux
Chardonnay, Private Selection, Barton & Guestier
Sparkling Pomegranate Kir
Parisien Cosmo Slush

Germany, Introduced: 1996
Spätzle Gratin with Ham and Cheese
Nürnberger Sausage in a Pretzel Roll
Apfel Strudel featuring Werther's Original Karamell Sauce NEW
S.A. Prüm Essence Riesling
Hooked Riesling NEW
Gunderloch Diva Spatlese Riesling NEW
Rudi Wiest Rhine River Riesling NEW
Radeberger Pilsner NEW
Hovels NEW
Altenmünster Octoberfest NEW

Greece, Introduced: 1996
Greek Salad with Pita Bread
Spanakopita
Chicken Souvlaki with Tzatziki
Baklava
Boutari Moschofilero
Enoteca Emery Athiri Mountain Slopes NEW
Boutari Naoussa NEW
Atlantis White NEW

Hops & Barley, Introduced: 2005
Boston-style Crab Cake with Cabbage Slaw and Rémoulade
New England Lobster Roll
Pecan Bread Pudding
Samuel Adams® Beers:
§ Boston Lager®
§ Octoberfest
§ Cherry Wheat®
§ 15th Anniversary Festival Beer Coastal Wheat Light® NEW
§ Cream Stout
§ Blackberry Witbier NEW
§ Latitude 48 IPA NEW

Ireland, Introduced: 2001
Lobster and Scallop Fisherman's Pie
Kerrygold® Cheese Selection
Warm Chocolate Lava Cake with Baileys Irish Cream Ganache
Guinness Draught
Bunratty Honey Meade Wine

Italy, Introduced: 1996
Polpettine Toscane with a Rosemary Breadstick
Baked Cheese Ravioli, Creamy Bolognese Sauce, Melted Mozzarella NEW
Cannolo Al Cioccolato NEW
Primavera Fruit Smoothie
Fantinel Prosecco NEW
Chianti Placido Banfi
Pinot Sartori
Moretti Beer NEW

Japan, Introduced: 1996
Spicy Tuna Roll
California Sushi Roll
Tuna Sensation
Wafu Ribettes NEW
Kirin Draft Beer
Hatsumago sake NEW
Denemon Junmai sake NEW

Mexico, Introduced: 1996
Tamal de Pollo NEW
Taco de Chilorio NEW
Esquites(Pan-Fried Corn and Spices) NEW
Churro NEW
Dos Equis Beer
Passion Fruit Frozen Margarita NEW
Conga Fruit Punch NEW
Wine L.A. Cetto Chardonnay
Wine L.A. Cetto Petite Sirah

Morocco, Introduced: 1996
Beef in a Pita Pocket
Falafel Pita Pocket
Baklava
Amazigh Red wine
Sangria NEW
Tangerine Mimosa Royale
Iced Mint Tea
Casa Beer

New Zealand, Introduced: 1997
Seared Sea Scallop with Vegetable Slaw and Lemon Oil
Lamb Slider with Tomato Chutney
Villa Maria Private Bin Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc
Villa Maria Private Bin Hawkes Bay Merlot/ Cabernet Sauvignon
Villa Maria Private Bin "Unoaked" Hawkes Bay Chardonnay
Villa Maria Private Bin Marlborough Pinot Noir NEW

Poland, Introduced: 1996
Kielbasa and Potato Pierogies with Caramelized Onions and Sour Cream
Golabki (Pork Stuffed Cabbage) NEW
Chopin Strawberry Balsamic Chiller NEW

Puerto Rico, Introduced: 2005
Asopao de Pollo (Chicken Soup with Rice) NEW
Medianoche Sandwich NEW
Bacardi Frozen Torched Cherry Colada NEW
Bacardi Frozen Limón Mojito

NEW-Singapore, Introduced: 2005
Shrimp Cake with Singapore Noodle Salad
Coconut-Braised, Beef Rendang with Jasmine Rice
Singapore Sling
Tiger Beer

South Africa, Introduced: 1997
Flavors of Africa (Salad, Bread, and Spreads) NEW
Seared Beef Tenderloin with Sweet Potato Purèe and Mango Barbecue Sauce
Goats do Roam White
La Capra Pinotage NEW
La Capra Shiraz NEW
La Capra Chardonnay NEW
La Capra Sauvignon Blanc NEW

NEW-South Korea, Introduced: 2010
Lettuce Wraps with Roast Pork and Kimchi Slaw
Barbecue Short Rib with Steamed Rice and Cucumber Kimchi
Honey Ginger Tea
Jinro Chamisul Soju
Bohae Bokbunjajoo (Black Raspberry Rice Wine)

Spain, Introduced: 1997
Serrano Ham, Chorizo, Manchego, Olives, and Tomato Bread
Seared Albacore Tuna with Romesco Sauce NEW
Spanish Almond Cake NEW
Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Crianza Red NEW
Paul Cheneau "Lady" Blanc de Blancs Cava NEW
Marqués de Cáceres Rioja White NEW

United States, Introduced: 1996
Bison Chili with Wild Mushrooms, Cabernet, and Pepper Jack Cheese NEW
Heirloom Tomatoes with Oregon Blue Cheese, Red Onions, and Basil NEW
Sagelands Vineyard Merlot, Four Corners NEW
Sagelands Vineyard Riesling Columbia Valley NEW
Red Stag by Jim Beam NEW

Festival Welcome Center

The Festival Welcome Center, located in the Wonders of Life pavilion, serves as the main hub for seminars and demonstrations throughout the Festival. Here you may also visit the Festival Store or sample a variety of wines at a tasting bar.

Some of the events and offerings at the Festival Welcome Center include:

The Stockpot Shop
Here you'll find commemorative items such as the event poster, Festival cookbook and a great selection of cooking and entertaining products.

Intermissions Café featuring wine, cheese, and light snacks - Hosted by Kobrand®
A special way to start your day or wind down in the evening! Featuring the following wines: Caposaldo Prosecco, Caposaldo Pinot Grigio, Benziger Family Sauvignon Blanc, Maison Louis Jadot Chardonnay, Maison Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages, Wild Rock Pinot Noir, St. Francis RED, Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon, and Fonseca Bin 27.

Bottle Signings
Meet winemakers and have your purchased bottle of wine autographed; it makes a great souvenir for that special occasion! Check daily schedules for topics and presenters, or visit the Festival Information Desk.

Festival Welcome Center Shopping
Find commemorative items such as the event poster, Festival cookbook and a great selection of products for cooking and entertaining. The wine shop boasts a selection of over 300 wines from the cellars of prestigious wineries showcased throughout the Festival. Pay a visit to the book shop and look for the official book-signing location for celebrity chefs and authors. You can even pick up a collectible Festival-themed Disney Gift Card — a handy way to pay for all the fun you'll have at the Festival!

Book Signings and Meet & Greets
Don't miss the opportunity to chat with a celebrated author and/or food personality and have your purchased book/merchandise autographed. Check the daily schedules for featured guests.

NEW THIS YEAR- Marketplace Discovery Passport
Pick up your Festival Marketplace Discovery Passport at the Festival Welcome Center. Then use it to travel the world and fully experience the delicious delights available at all 27 International Marketplaces around World Showcase. Get your passport stamped at each Marketplace, each with their own unique design. Let the journey begin! Included with Epcot admission.

The following seminars and demonstrations are included with the price of Epcot Admission, unless otherwise noted:

Seminars and Demonstrations

Authentic Taste Seminars
Each of these 30-minute seminars celebrates the origins, properties and history of some of the world's purest ingredients. Enjoy a lively and informative presentation by subject authorities.

Friday — Sunday at 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.

Authors without Borders
Listen to renowned authors from the food and wine industries speak about popular topics in these informative and enlightening 30-minute conversations.

Friday — Sunday at 12:15 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Seasons of the Vine
This seven-minute journey provides a "behind-the-scenes introduction" to wine growing. This film will run continuous shows throughout the day.

Daily seminars throughout the day

Wine & Beverage Seminars
A 45-minute seminar allows you to meet the featured winery principal, learn a few useful wine tips and sample the specially selected vintages or beverages.

Daily 12:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 4:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m.Price: $8.00 & $12.00 USD per person, tax included. Theme Park Admission is required.

Daily Culinary Demonstrations
Learn from the pros at these 45-minute culinary sessions. Meet the featured chef and wine presenter, pick up cooking tips and best of all, taste the demonstrated dish and wine pairing!

Daily: 1:00p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m.Price: $9.00 & $13.00 USD per person, tax included. Theme Park Admission is required.

Special Festival Experiences

NEW- First Bites Opening Reception at the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival
An opening reception in the Festival Welcome Center featuring epicurean samplings from the International Marketplaces, Wine Seminars, Culinary Demonstrations, merchandise locations, celebrities and entertainment. This is truly a sneak peek of the Festival before it is officially open to the public.

Festival Welcome Center
Thursday, September 30th, 2010, from 6:30 p.m.– 9:00 p.m. Price: $195.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

NEW "3D" Disney's Dessert Discovery
Join us for a dessert lover's dream! During the Festival, select Thursday & Friday evenings become truly delicious with a variety of desserts and samplings of cordials certain to please any sweet tooth. Afterwards enjoy V.I.P. viewing of IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth.

World ShowPlace Pavilion
Select Thursday & Fridays from 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Friday, October 8th
Friday, October 15th
Thursday, October 21st
Thursday, October 28th
Friday, November 5th
Friday, November 12th

Price: $45.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Mexico Tequila Tastings
Come taste authentic Mexican tequila and learn about the history and traditions around its production from a true Tequila Master. This unique location offers appetizer samplings of ceviche and tostada as guests embark on their tequila flight.*Available dates are limited.

La Cava del Tequila, Mexico Pavilion

Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays at 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Price: $45.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Food & Wine Pairings
These late afternoon sessions are great opportunities to discover a marriage of 3 regional wines with 3 tasting-size portions of cuisines from select Epcot restaurants. A wine representative will host each session and the themes will vary according to location. Featured wineries and menu selections change daily.

Saturdays, 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. — Tutto Italia Ristorante
Mondays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Tokyo Dining
Tuesdays, 3:30 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Restaurant Marrakesh

Price: $65.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Cheese Seminars
Learn about cheese from expert "fromagers" from the Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City and other cheese industry professionals. The featured cheese will be paired with selected wines–introduced by a knowledgeable wine representative.

Saturdays, 10:30 a.m. — 11:45 a.m. in the Festival Welcome Center

10/2 — French — Max McCalman, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City
10/9 — Italian — Erin Hendley, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City
10/16 — American — Max McCalman, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City
10/23 — Spanish — Waldemar Albrecht-Luna, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City
10/30 — France — Max McCalman, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City
11/6 — American — David Gremmels, Rogue Creamery, Central Point, OR
11/13 — Italy — Max McCalman, Artisanal Premium Cheese Center in New York City

Price: $75.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Epcot® Wine Schools
Enjoy this fabulous, comprehensive program facilitated by a prestigious wine authority. This afternoon session engages the flavors and traditions of distinctive wine cultures, teaches how to taste several regional wines, and concludes with a celebratory reception and certificate of completion.

Saturdays, 1:00 p.m. — 3:00 p.m. Class; 3:00 p.m. — 4:00 p.m. Light Reception at Wonders Retreat.

10/2 — Jon Bolta, Winemaker for Conundrum Wines "Conundrum Building Seminar, Conundrum Wines California"
10/9 — Robin Back, Proprietor of Fairview Wines "Variety is in our Nature South Africa's Unique Terroir"
10/16 — Andrea Robinson, Master Sommelier "Explore the Alluring and Mysterious Great Pinot Noir Regions"
10/23 — Sharron McCarthy, President of the Society of Wine Educators "Under the Tuscan Sun Tantalizing Tuscany"
11/13 — Evan Goldstein, Master Sommelier "Argentina 'en fuego'- Discover the Excitement Around this Amazing South American Jewel"

Price: $125.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Sweet Sundays — Hosted by MARTINI®
A highly-acclaimed pastry chef or baker demonstrates 3 signature desserts... and serves them! Each event includes a warm and intimate breakfast buffet complete with sparkling wines.

Sundays from 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m. in the Festival Welcome Center

10/3 — Matt Lewis & Renato Poliafito, Baked, Brooklyn, NY
10/10 — Warren Brown & Mary Meyers, CakeLove, Washington, DC
10/17 — Stanton Ho, Executive Chef, Chocolates á la Carte
10/24 — Gale Gand, Tru, Chicago, Ill
10/31 — Geraldine Randlesome, Creative Cutters, Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada
11/7 — Emily Luchetti, Waterbar Restaurant and Farallon Restaurant, San Francisco, CA
11/14 — Richard Ruskell, Montage Beverly Hills, Beverly Hills, CA

Price: $85.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

French Regional Lunches
Discover the cuisine and wine that characterizes a different region in France on selected Sundays. Lunch will be prepared by chefs from the Bistro de Paris at the France Pavilion at Epcot. Wines will also be presented by a visiting winery principle.

Select Fridays & Sundays, 12:00 p.m. — 3:30 p.m. at the Bistro de Paris, France Pavilion at Epcot

10/1— Champagne— Pascal Boye representing Nicolas Feuillatte
10/3— Bordeaux— Baron Philippe de Rothschild, Adrien Laurent
10/8— Maconnais & Beaujolais— Georges Duboeuf, Jorge Hernandez
10/10— Rhone Valley— Maison Vidal-Fleury, Jorge Hernandez
10/15— Alsace— Trimbach, Alexandra Marshall
10/17— Alsace— Trimbach, Alexandra Marshall
10/22— Bordeaux— Barton & Guestier, Alexandra Marshall
10/24— Bordeaux— Barton & Guestier, Alexandra Marshall10/29— Champagne— Champagne Pommery, Frederic Goossens
10/31— Champagne— Champagne Pommery, Frederic Goossens
11/5— Cotes du Rhone— Jean-Luc Colombo, Lydia Tremble
11/7— Cotes du Rhone— Jean-Luc Colombo, Lydia Tremble
11/12— Burgundy— Jean-Claude Boisset, Gregory Patriat
11/14— Burgundy— Jean-Claude Boisset, Gregory Patriat

Price: $95.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Celebrating Family & Friends in the Kitchen
This enchanting 3-course lunch celebrates the joys of preparing a meal with family and friends. The hosts will engage attendees and demonstrate how to prepare an appetizer, main course and dessert. A notable winery representative will also be on hand to pair each course with a selection from their premium wines.

Fridays from 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m. at the Festival Welcome Center

10/1 — Sondra Bernstein & John Best, the girl and the fig, Sonoma, CA
10/8 — Robin Miller, Host of Quick Fix Meals with Robin Miller, Food Network
10/15 — Andrea Robinson, M.S., Everyday Dining with Wine
10/22 — Andrew Zimmern, Travel Channel's Bizarre Foods
10/29 — Cat Cora, Kouzzina by Cat Cora, Disney's BoardWalk Resort *$140.00
11/5 — Art Smith, Personal Celebrity Chef, Chicago, IL
11/12 — Evan Goldstein, Master Sommelier

Price: $110.00 USD per person plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme Park Admission is required.

Party for the Senses
The weekly Party For The Senses grand tasting event showcases tempting bites from eminent chefs from around the country as well as the finest Disney chefs.

Start your evening off with confirmed seating to the Eat To The Beat concert series at the America Gardens Theater. Then head over to World Showplace for this grand culinary event! Wander among tantalizing food and beverage in the midst of imaginative decor and awe-inspiring acts from La Nouba™ by Cirque du Soleil®.

Upgrade your experience with the Wine View Lounge. This is an exclusive area within Party for the Senses which includes a private reserved table, entrance into World ShowPlace 15 minutes before general admission, premium bar, an artisanal cheese station, and more. Limited Availability.

Saturdays 6:30 p.m. — 9:00 p.m. at the World ShowPlace Pavilion (Wine View Lounge: 6:15 p.m. — 9:00 p.m.

Price: $135.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is required.

Wine View Lounge access is $90.00 USD per person, plus tax (in addition to admission for Party for the Senses.). Gratuity included.

Culinary Adventure Signature Dining
A highly acclaimed chef collaborates with the resident chef of a top Disney restaurant to create a truly magical and memorable meal. A representative from one or more hosting wineries will present accompanying wines for each dinner.

Price: $125.00 USD-$450.00 USD per person, plus tax. Gratuity included. Theme park admission is not required.

Select days at select venues at the Walt Disney World Resort (see below).

Paradiso 37 at Downtown Disney Area — Jose Camay
Tuesday, October 5th 6:30 p.m.—Price:$125.00

Jiko- The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge — Dennis Thompson Thursday, October 7th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $180.00

The Wave at Disney's Contemporary Resort — Frank Brough
Thursday, October 14th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $140.00

Wolfgang Puck's at Downtown Disney Area — Sinclair Thorne
Tuesday, October 19th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $140.00

California Grill at Disney's Contemporary Resort — Brian Piasecki
Thursday, October 21st 6:30 p.m.—Price $225.00

Wonder's Retreat at Epcot — Jens Dahlmann
Friday, October 22nd 6:30 p.m.—Price: $180.00 *(Theme Park Admission Required)

Victoria & Albert's at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Scott Hunnel
Sunday, October 24th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $450.00

Portobello Italian Trattoria at Downtown Disney Area — Tony Mantuano
Wednesday October 27th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $125.00

Kouzzina by Cat Cora at Disney's BoardWalk Resort — Cat Cora
Thursday, October 28th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $140.00

Citricos at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — Phillip Ponticelli
Wednesday, November 3rd 6:30 p.m.—Price: $160.00

Raglan Road at Downtown Disney Area — Kevin Dundon
Wednesday, November 3rd 6:30 p.m.—Price: $135.00

Flying Fish Café at Disney's BoardWalk Resort — Tim Keating
Thursday, November 4th 6:00 p.m.—Price: $160.00

Todd English's bluezoo, Lake Buena Vista, Florida — Todd English
Saturday, November 6th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $225.00

Bongo's Cuban Café at Downtown Disney Area — Edwin Almonte
Wednesday, November 10th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $125.00

Fulton’s Crab House at Downtown Disney Area — Ron Cope Thursday, November 11th 6:30 p.m.—Price: $140.00

So, what are you most excited about trying at this year's Food & Wine Festival? I've heard great things about the lettuce wraps from the Tables in Wonderland Preview Event. I'm also thrilled that the France booth has remained exactly as it was last year - it was by far my favourite!

Saturday, July 10, 2010

Menu released for Epcot's new pizzeria - Via Napoli

Disney has announced more details about Via Napoli, a new 300-seat pizzeria set to open at Epcot's Italy pavilion later this summer.

While the original opening date was assumed to be September, it seems that Via Napoli may be ahead of schedule as the DisneyParks Blog has announced an August opening (actual opening date still unconfirmed).

The menu will feature items such as pastas, wood-fired pizzas and scoops of sweet gelato!

The restaurant was created by the Patina Restaurant Group and the menu is inspired by authentic tastes of Southern Italy. The team from the Patina Restaurant Group studied the art of dough, crust, sauce and oven temperatures at the famous pizzerias Da Michele and Trianon. In fact, the wood-burning ovens at Via Napoli are named after three active volcanoes in Italy – Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius and Stromboli.

Below you will find samples of items to be featured on the opening menu:

Appetizers:
- Sicilian eggplant with olives and raisins
- Salad of lettuce, fagiolini (string beans), fennel and tomatoes
- Arancini (fried saffron risotto balls) with meat ragù, mozzarella and pomodoro sauce
- Corn-crusted fried calamari
- Minestrone with basil pesto
- A plate to share - arancini, mozzarella, calamari, portobella mushrooms, asparagus, zucchini and carciofi (artichokes).

Main Course Salads:
- Manzo (filet of beef) with greens, red onion, gorgonzola, apple and cucumber with a red wine-mustard vinaigrette
- Chopped salad with lemon chicken, greens, cantaloupe, cucumber, red pepper, green beans, onions, almonds and pasta crisps with honey-citrus vinaigrette
- Calamari with arugula, carrots and fennel with orange vinaigrette.

Pastas:
- Candele (long, tube-shaped pasta) with sausage ragù
- Linguine with seafood
- Malfadine (ribbon pasta) with guanciale (unsmoked Italian bacon) and pomodoro sauce
- Lasagna verde.

Piatti alla Parmigiana (topped with Parmesan and mozzarella gratinée):
- Veal
- Chicken
- Eggplant.

Wood-fired pizzas (made with caputo flour imported from Southern Italy, San Marzano tomatoes, handmade mozzarella and water from a local spring just like in Italy’s Campania region) – 10-inch, 20-inch or 1/2 meter to share:
- A dozen choices, including:
- Margherita with tomato, mozzarella and basil
- Carciofi with artichoke, potato, pecorino cheese
- Prosciutto and cantaloupe.

Sweets:
- Tiramisù
- Zeppole di ricotta (ricotta cheese-fried dough, whipped cream and chocolate sauce)
- Apple cake with almond sorbetti
- Gelatie
- Vanilla gelato with almond cookies and amarena cherries.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Food & Wine Festival Sneak Preview Event for Tables in Wonderland Members!

Walt Disney World has just announced an exclusive Food & Wine Festival sneak preview event for Tables in Wonderland Members!

Taking place on July 8th, 2010, 6:30-9 p.m. at The Wonders of Life Pavilion, the event promises to preview some of the food items at the International Marketplaces, explain which booths will be newcomers at this year's festival, and announce special events.

The price is $95.00 plus tax, gratuity included.

The Menu, which is inspired by the International Marketplaces, is as follows:

Reception
Roasted Corn Empanada
Lettuce Wraps with Roast Pork and Kimchi Slaw
Shrimp Ceviche (Fresh Laughing Bird Shrimp with Corn Nuts)
Paul Cheneau “Lady” Blanc de Blanc Cava

Plated Dinner
Seared Albacore Tuna and Romesco Sauce
Heirloom Tomatoes with Oregon Blue Cheese, Macerated Red Onions, and Basil
Grilled Lamb Chop with Roasted Potato Salad, Red Wine Reduction, and Murray River Sea Salt
Bodega Norton Cosecha Tardia
Penfolds Rawson’s Retreat Merlot


Dessert Sampler
Strawberry Angel Verrine
Pear-Streusel Pudding Cake
Dark Chocolate Sensation
Godiva Chocolate Iced Coffee

As the event promises, Tables in Wonderland members will be privy to the all information regarding the International Marketplaces and Special Events before these details are announced publicly, which means that we will have to wait until AT LEAST July 9th for full Festival details.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Via Napoli: Authentic Pizzeria coming to Epcot's Italy Pavilion

As announced on the Disney Parks Blog earlier this year, an authentic Naples-style pizzeria is coming to Epcot's Italy pavilion.

The eatery, named Via Napoli, is located at the back of the pavilion, adjacent to Tutto Italia. The name derives from the fact that the best pizza in the world comes from Naples, Italy. The claim of the locals is that the spring water used in their pizza dough gives it a unique taste and consistency.

Therefore, Disney will import water from a source where the water is of a similar composition to that in Naples. This will make the pizza dough as authentic as possible.

The restaurant is slated to seat 300, feature Florentine architecture such as vaulted ceilings and patio seating. The menu will consist of traditional italian dishes and pizzas made in a wood-burning oven.

The estimated opening of the restaurant is set for Fall 2010, in conjunction with the 15th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival!

Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Updates regarding the 15th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival

Details are emerging about the 15th Annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival.

The theme for this year is "Celebrating 15 years of Delicious Discoveries." In keeping with that theme, the list of Festival Marketplaces, announced today, feature the introductory dates of each of the participating countries:

Argentina, Introduced: 1996
Australia, Introduced: 1997
Belgium, NEW: 2010
Brazil, Introduced: 1996
Canada, Introduced: 1996
Charcuterie & Cheese, NEW: 2010
Chile, Introduced: 1997
China, Introduced: 1996
Desserts & Champagne, Introduced: 2000
France, Introduced: 1996
Germany, Introduced: 1996
Greece, Introduced: 1996
Hops & Barley, Introduced: 2005
Ireland, Introduced: 2001
Italy, Introduced: 1996
Japan, Introduced: 1996
Mexico, Introduced: 1996
Morocco, Introduced: 1996
New Zealand, Introduced: 1997
Poland, Introduced: 1996
Puerto Rico, Introduced: 2005
Singapore, Introduced: 2005
South Africa, Introduced: 1997
South Korea, NEW: 2010
Spain, Introduced: 1997
The Brewer's Collection, Introduced: 2003
United States, Introduced: 1996

Returning this year is the popular Party for the Senses. Every Saturday from 6:30 - 9 at World ShowPlace Pavilion approximately 1500 guests wander among tasting stations sampling food and wines from some of the best chefs at the Walt Disney World Resort and around the world. This year, Cirque du Soleil returns to perform awe-inspiring acts throughout the evening. The event also offers reserved seating to the Eat to the Beat Concert Series at the America Gardens Theater.

The cost is $135 per person, plus tax, gratuity included - Theme park admission required.

For an additional $90 ($225 per person, plus tax, gratuity included - Theme park admission required), guests can access the Wine View Lounge - an exclusive area within the Party for the senses that includes:
- Private Reserved Seating
- Entrance to the World ShowPlace 15 minutes early
- A Premium Bar
- An Artisnal Cheese Station, and more!

The Festival Welcome Center opens daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and features a variety of seminars and demonstrations, as well as a tasting bar and store to purchase food and wines sampled throughout the Festival.

  • Culinary Demonstrations – $9 & $13 per person, tax included.
    Theme Park admission required.

    45-minute culinary sessions where you will meet the featured chef and wine presenter and pick up a few tips. Best of all – you will taste the demonstrated dish and wine pairing!

    Daily: 1 p.m., 3 p.m., 5 p.m.

  • Wine/ Beverage Seminars – $8 & $12 per person, tax included. Theme Park admission required.
    45-minute seminars where you meet the featured winery principal or beverage expert and learn a few tips. Plus, you get to sample the selected wines/beverages.

    Daily: 12 noon, 2 p.m., 4 p.m., 6 p.m.

  • Authors without Borders
    Complimentary sessions with renowned authors from the food and wine industry. Hear them speak about popular topics in these 30-minute conversations.

    Friday – Sundays at 12:15 p.m. and 4 p.m.

  • Authentic Taste Seminars
    Complimentary 30-minute seminars which celebrate the origins, properties, and history of pure ingredients in a lively and informative presentation by subject authorities.

    Friday – Sundays at 2 p.m. and 6 p.m.

  • Book Signings and Meet & Greets
    Opportunity to chat with a celebrated author and/or personality and have your purchased book/merchandise autographed.
  • Bottle Signings
    Meet winemakers and have your purchased bottle of wine autographed for a great souvenir.
  • Seasons of the Vine
    This seven-minute journey provides a “behind-the-scenes introduction” to wine growing. Narrated by Jeremy Irons this film will run continuous shows throughout the day.
  • Intermissions Café featuring wine, cheese, and light snacks – Hosted by Kobrand
    A special way to start your day or wind down in the evening! Featuring the following wines: Caposaldo Prosecco, Caposaldo Pinot Grigio, Benziger Family Sauvignon Blanc, Maison Louis Jadot Chardonnay, Maison Louis Jadot Beaujolais-Villages, Wild Rock Pinot Noir, St. Francis RED, Abadía Retuerta Selección Especial Sequoia Grove Cabernet Sauvignon, and Fonseca Bin 27
  • The Stockpot Shop
    Find commemorative items such as the event poster, Festival cookbook and a great selection of cooking and entertaining products.
  • The Cellar
    The wine shop boasts a selection of over 300 wines from the cellars of the prestigious wineries showcased throughout the Festival.
  • Tasteful Chapters
    Visit our book shop and look for the official book-signing location for celebrity chefs and authors. Be sure to pick up a collectible Festival-themed mini Disney Gift Card – a handy way to pay for so much fun at the Festival!

Saturday, June 19, 2010

La Cantina de San Angel, Hacienda de San Angel News

More details about the new restaurant at the Mexico pavilion have emerged!

First off, the quick service location, La Cantina de San Angel, will remain, but with a facelift and a re-vamped menu!

La Cantina will open daily at 11 a.m., with 150 outdoor seats and a menu offering chicken and beef tacos served on house-made fresh corn tortillas, cheese empanadas, nachos, chips and guacamole and churros, to name a few items.

The new table service restaurant, La Hacienda de San Angel, will open daily at 4 p.m. with 250 indoor seats. Some of the announced menu items are as follows:

Appetizers
§ Queso Fundido—a spicy, warm cheese dip flavored with poblano pepper and chorizo
§ Taco Trio—Rib eye, roasted chicken and pork
§ Traditional black bean soup

Entrees
§ Mixed Grill for Two—Flank steak, chicken, chorizo and vegetables
§ Seafood Mixed Grill—Grouper, shrimp and scallops
§ Roasted Shrimp—in pepper garlic broth
§ Flank Steak—with spring onions, refried beans and cactus leaves
§ Grilled Red Snapper—with roasted corn and cactus leaves

Dessert
§ Chocolate churros
§ Sweet tamales
§ Fruit empanadas

The restaurants are set to open this fall, in conjunction with Epcot’s 15th Annual International Food & Wine Festival. Currently, the roof, dome and exterior features are being added and the restaurant is really starting to take shape.

What menu items do you like? Are you excited to see the facelift to La Cantina? And try the sophisticated South-of-the-Border cuisine at La Hacienda?

Epicures, Set Your Alarms: Epcot Food & Wine Festival Special Event Reservations Open July 20

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Don’t want to miss the celebrated Party for the Senses grand-food-and-wine-tasting event? Can’t wait to attend the debut of the First Bites Opening Reception? Ladies and gentlemen, set your alarms for 7 a.m. July 20! That’s when the phone lines open to call Disney reservation specialists and book these and other events scheduled for the 15th annual Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, which presents Delicious Discoveries Oct. 1-Nov. 14 at Walt Disney World Resort.

Fans of the festival’s special programs and events can choose from among one dozen categories of special wine and culinary events scheduled during the festival’s six weeks. New programming this year includes the Sept. 30 First Bites Opening Reception festival preview, 3-D Disney’s Dessert Discovery and the Taste, Shake and Indulge Like the French Grand Marnier tasting experience. Returning events include favorites like Celebrating Family and Friends in the Kitchen, Epcot Wine Schools, Mexico Tequila Tastings and Food and Wine Pairings.

Throughout the festival, the park will present more than 25 international marketplaces where food, wine, beer and spirits lovers can sample cuisine, culture and entertainment from six continents. The new Belgium marketplace will serve Steamed Mussels with Roasted Garlic Cream, and the new South Korea marketplace packs plenty of taste into its BBQ Short Ribs with Steamed Rice and Cucumber Kimchi.

At least 250 Disney and celebrity chefs will conduct culinary demonstrations and host tasting events. In addition, the Festival Welcome Center will feature Authentic Taste Seminars and Authors without Borders weekend conversations that are included with Epcot admission.

Guests can call 407/WDW-FEST (939-3378) for information and to make reservations for special events and programs. Festival details will be available at www.disneyworld.com/foodandwine before reservations open July 20.