Update for January 21 – 27, 2014
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News and Views
Spice Road Table review | Fastpass+ goes resort-wide this week | All-Star Sport food court reopens | Seven Dwarfs Mine Train testing | Construction update | Quick takes | Crowd update
Spice Road Table review
[Last week, we shared some photos from Spice Road Table, the new restaurant that opened at the Morocco pavillion in Epcot's World Showcase. Staff writer Lani Teshima had a chance to dine there for lunch, and provides the following review. Since the location is so new, we realize they will likely make various tweaks and adjustments; your experience may be quite different when you go.]
From the shape of the entryway, the theming at Spice Road Table evokes the Mediterranean. Photo by Lani Teshima.
After a week spent at Walt Disney World for marathon weekend, we had a few hours to spare on our last day, and took the opportunity to eat at Spice Road Table. Since it had just soft-opened a few days earlier, it was not yet taking reservations, so the restaurant was only about a third full during our visit.
The interior seating area houses a few dozen tables. One side of the room is full of windows that open up into World Showcase Lagoon, while the other wall is full of beautiful decorative pieces. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Even though Spice Road Table is in the Morocco pavilion, the dishes are not Moroccan. Instead, they are Mediterranean-inspired, and are not that much different from what is already available from the two other locations in the pavilion. The main difference is that Spice Road Table is a tapas bar.
The restaurant also has exterior tables, which are protected from the rain, as the tables are under cover. Sitting here might feel like you're noshing at an outdoor market in Istanbul (except for all the people wearing mouse ears). Photo by Lani Teshima.
Disney describes this place as offering “Mediterranean small plates”—essentially, a tapas eatery. Tapas originate in Spanish cuisine, but primarily mean that the dishes are appetizer-sized. Not only is the “entree” smaller than a typical American restaurant entree, but you don't get the traditional sides. This is important because this not only affects how many dishes you wind up ordering, but also how much your final tab will come out to.
Cast member servers don Mediterranean-inspired garb at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
We wanted to keep it light, and only ordered three plates:
- Spicy Garlic Shrimp ($10) – “sauteed shrimp with dried chilies and fried garlic.” We enjoyed this dish the most, but you really need to like garlic. The garlic was sliced and fried in (what we assume is olive) oil.
- Mediterranean Omelet ($7) – “with potato, red peppers, and caramelized onions.” The version we got seemed to have one large, thin slice of potato through the center layer, but this really was an omelet (a tiny one at that). Size-wise, the diameter was about as round as a bagel and half as tall.
- Salted Cod Croquettes ($10) – “sundried tomato and black olive aioli.” While the two little cups of aioli were quite good, this dish was essentially three breaded and deep-fried fish meatballs. One of my weaknesses is oversalting my food, and even I thought this was very salty. Some people may find it too salty to eat.
The Spicy Garlic Shrimp plate consists of sauteed shrimp with dried chilies and fried garlic. The $10 is available at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
In addition, we saw some other plates get served at other tables. The “Hummus and Imported Olives” ($10) came with a small stack of flat bread and offered both plain and tomato hummus. We also saw a serving of the fried calamari ($12), which while comparably a generous portion, would probably still be considered a smaller serving compared to most restaurant servings of the dish.
The Mediterranean Omelet is a $7 baby omelet consisting of a layer of potato, red peppers, and caramelized onions. The savory orange sauce on the top of the omelet tasted like roasted peppers (but not ketchup). Photo by Lani Teshima.
If you're not sure what to order, they offer two chef's specials, which for $16 are each a sampler of three plates:
- Mogador Sampler – includes Mussels Tagine, Salted Cod Croquettes, and Fried Calamari
- Tingis Sampler – includes Lamb Slider, Harissa Chicken Roll, and Merquez Sausage
Salted Cod Croquettes may seem expensive to some, since the $10 dish only comes with three fried fish balls. Photo by Lani Teshima.
We chose not to order the samplers because neither of us like mussels, and neither of us eat lamb (ruling out both specials).
The Chef's Special sampler offerings at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Having not ordered the specials, we don't know if the specials come with three normal-sized (small) plates of three items, or if the portions are even smaller. If, however, you like the combination, for $16 they are a far better deal than ordering each item separately.
The small plate menu at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
One thing we hope they will change is to allow the patron to choose any three plates to combine into a chef's special. I realize some items cost more than others, but I'm sure the chef could determine a correct portion size based on the combination. One chef's special sorely missing is a vegetarian option; for that, you need to order the plates individually.
A full bar lines the far wall of the entry area at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
In addition to tapas plates, Spice Road Table has a very strong emphasis on adult beverages. The restaurant has a full bar (which takes up the entire length of the entry area), and offers a wine flight, signature cocktails, as well as a sangria (available in both glass and pitcher). The menu suggests adult beverages that compliment each plate, as well.
Diners can choose from a multitude of adult beverages at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Essentially, if your idea of the perfect meal is to sit along the water and nibble on expensive appetizers while imbibing in adult beverages, Spice Road Table will be right up your alley.
A concoction of watermelon, cranberry juice, and orange water, “Watermelon Delight” is one of the nonalcoholic drinks available at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Although the restaurant does offer a kid's menu, the offerings are essentially what you'd expect, and is not adventuresome (in the order of chicken tenders and hamburgers).
Moroccan Sunrise is another nonalcoholic drink (consisting of pineapple juice, strawberry, and orange water, at Spice Road Table, the new Mediterranean appetizer restaurant in Epcot's World Showcase. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Be aware that Spice Road Table does not participate in the Disney Dining Plan or Tables in Wonderland. While this might keep the restaurant from being full all the time, it also means you can easily rack up a pretty hefty tab. If each person ordered a couple of plates, you will wind up paying the equivalent of a full-service restaurant (with less food).
The best table in the restaurant is probably this curved booth, just to the left as you enter the inside portion of the restaurant. You get your own window overlooking the lagoon, and a view of the entire restaurant. Photo by Lani Teshima.
Overall, we enjoyed our experience at Spice Road Table. The theming was very nice (and reminded us of our vacation to Istanbul a few years ago), and the restaurant has a more adult ambience that, at least in the interior tables, makes for a quieter, relaxed atmosphere that we like. We think we would have enjoyed it more if we were the “hang out and drink for a few hours” type—so if you're on a tight schedule, you won't get as much out of your experience, and may want to choose another location.
A view of Spice Road Table as seen from the ferry. The interior tables are on the left, while the exterior tables are visible on the right. Photo by Lani Teshima.
The prices and portions need to be tweaked a little, but that's to be expected for a brand new location. We liked the number of plates (including a few vegetarian-friendly options), and the smaller portions mean you can either enjoy a light meal, or try many dishes for a full (albeit expensive) meal, and the theming and ambience were well thought out and beautiful.
While I don't recommend you putting your passport away if you were planning on traveling to the Mediterranean, Spice Road Table is a nice addition to your Epcot world dining repertoire.
Fastpass+ goes resort-wide this week
The last two parks containing the old Fastpass system, Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios, will be shutting down their machines this week. The only way to book times will be through the Fastpass+ system. Hollywood Studios will begin the new system on January 21 and Epcot on January 23, so if you're interested in getting any paper passes as souvenirs do it fast. Contributing writer Jeff Kober covered the new system and how to navigate it as a non-resort guest in an article last week. Check it out if you'll be visiting soon.
All-Star Sports food court reopens
The renovated food court at All-Star Sports has reopened with an expanded food selection. Contributing writer Jeff Kober was able to visit and get some photographs of the new area.
The new entrance of the End Zone Food Court frames the seating area behind it. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
The previous strong color scheme has been muted; gone are the large athlete murals. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
Images on the walls resemble playing fields from multiple sports, including basketball. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
Sports-themed murals reflective of the new Mickey Mouse style are a new addition to the space. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train testing
Testing has begun on the ride system at the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. If you are in the park you may see vehicles riding the tracks. If you happen to catch any photos or video, please send them our way! A recent Disney Parks Blog post highlighted the effort that went into the design of the new cars.
“Behind the Scenes: Designing & Painting Seven Dwarf Mine Train Cars at Magic Kingdom Park. We're thrilled to start off the New Year with an exciting behind-the-scenes look at Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Walt Disney Imagineering just shared this new video, in which Walt Disney Imagineers Ben VanBeusekon and Mary MacEachin explain the creative process behind designing and producing themed cars for the attraction.” YouTube video by Disney.
Construction Update
J. Jeff Kober shares some construction photos from around the resort this week.
The Main Street Confectionary is still open while its facade undergoes refurbishment. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
A large portion of the area next to Casey's Corner is behind walls while the walkway and planting receive extensive repairs. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
The area around the new coaster is looking more complete every day. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
Quick takes…
…The runDisney Expedition Everest Challenge has already sold out in just under a month! If you'll be participating, join the discussion on our Team MousePlanet message board.
…The Wilderness Lodge has rejoined the list of AAA four-diamond-rated hotels.
…The construction crane behind Cinderella's Castle will remain until March 27 for holiday light removal followed by routine maintenance.
…Brioche sandwiches are a recent addition to the menu at the France ice cream shop. A scoop of ice cream is placed inside the brioche with a choice of raspberry or chocolate topping, and then the brioche is toasted in a press.
A cast member prepares to toast a brioche sandwich. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
…The Heritage House shop has been cleared out and is now a Fastpass+ reservation location.
Cast members assist guests with their Fastpass+ reservations. Photo by J. Jeff Kober.
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Crowd Forecast
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Resort Events
2014
- Disney's Princess Half Marathon Weekend – February 21–23
- Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival – March 5–May 18
- Expedition Everest Challenge – May 3
runDisney events and capacity updates
2014
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Disney's Princess Half-Marathon Weekend – February 21–23
- February 21: Disney Royal Family 5k – 68%
- February 21–22: runDisney Kids' Races – 74%
- February 22: Enchanted 10k – Sold Out
- February 23: Disney's Princess Half Marathon – Sold Out
- February 22–23: Glass Slipper Challenge (Enchanted 10k and Disney's Princess Half Marathon) – Sold Out
- Expedition Everest Challenge – May 3 – Sold Out
Do you participate in (or are considering signing up for) runDisney events? Visit our Team MousePlanet forum on the MousePad discussion board, where you can join our community of health-minded readers and staff.
Refurbishments and Attraction Closures
Magic Kingdom
- Casey's Corner – closed through February 15 for refurbishment.
- Splash Mountain – closed through March 22 for refurbishment.
- Magic Carpets of Aladdin – closed through January 30 for refurbishment.
- Liberty Belle Riverboat – closed January 21–30 for refurbishment.
- The Barnstormer – closed February 3–5 for refurbishment.
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority – closed February 10 through March 27 for refurbishment.
- The Plaza Restaurant – closed February 17 through March 15 for refurbishment.
- Pinocchio Village Haus – closed February 17 through March 30 for refurbishment.
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – closed April 7–9 for refurbishment.
- Pirates of the Caribbean – closed April 28–30 for refurbishment.
Epcot
- No known refurbishments at this time.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
- Studio Backlot Tour – closed through March 1 for refurbishment.
- AFI Showcase – closed through March 1 for refurbishment.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
- Festival of the Lion King – closed for move to its new theater, currently under construction. Estimated to be closed until July/August 2014.
Resorts
As reported in July, some refrigerators in non-Disney Vacation Club rooms at Walt Disney World are being replaced due to a product defect. All Walt Disney World Resort rooms with the exception of DVC Villas, the family suites at the Art of Animation and All-Star Movie resorts, and the cabins at Fort Wilderness are impacted. Disney says “the schedule for replacing the refrigerators at these Resorts is expected to last several months.”
In the interim, if you have a reservation at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel and need a refrigerator for medical reasons, we recommend contacting your resort directly to inquire about availability during your trip. The hotel should be able to arrange for one if your room does not yet have a new refrigerator, but supplies may be limited while they work to replace all of the malfunctioning units.
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All-Star Sports
- Surf's Up Pool – closed through January 24 for refurbishment.
- Bay Lake Tower children's play area – closed until February 7 for refurbishment.
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Polynesian
- Never Land Club Children's Activity Center – closed for refurbishment January 28, 2014 through January 1, 2015.
- Port Orleans French Quarter – Doubloon Lagoon Pool closed through February 28 for refurbishment. Transportation will be provided for guests to use the Ol' Man Island pool at Port Orleans Riverside during this period.
- Port Orleans Riverside – Magnolia Bend Building 80–85 pool deck closed January 20–21 for refurbishment.
- Saratoga Springs – Congress Park Pool closed January 22–23 for refurbishment.
Water Parks
- Blizzard Beach – closed through March 17 for annual refurbishment.
Elsewhere
- The Resort and Express monorail beam closes between 11:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. daily starting on January 21 for maintenance.
- Disney Osprey Ridge Golf Course – permanently closed to play.
- Downtown Disney Lots H, I, J, and K (in Westside area) closed until further notice for Disney Springs construction.
- Downtown Disney Bridge 4 and restrooms on Paradise Island are temporarily closed for ongoing construction work.
- Cirque du Soleil La Nouba – performs Tuesdays through Saturdays.
- Winter side of the Winter Summerland mini golf course will close for refurbishment on January 20.
Current Discounts & Promotions
Note: MousePlanet does not edit past Updates to reflect price increases; for up-to-date prices, check the most recent Walt Disney World Resort Update. For your convenience, we have grouped the discount offers based on the intended audience. Check out the category that best matches you, and pick the offer that works best for you. And keep those tips coming—let us know if you find a better or different offer, so we can share it with other readers!
Discounts for Everyone |
Save up to 30%* on rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels for stays most nights March 14 through April 12 and April 20 through June 15, 2014 Upgrade to a room and ticket package and get one more ticket day free. (Minimum 4-day Magic Your Way ticket required.) Offer Details:
Book now through March 31, 2014 Memory Maker pre-arrival discount Disney's PhotoPass service provides a discount on Disney Memory Maker pre-arrival packages. For $149 plus tax, Walt Disney World guests will be able to digitally download any photos associated with their Memory Maker account, including photos taken on attractions. The advanced purchase price is a $50 savings. Applicable taxes are charged to all orders. This special offer is only available from this link, and must be made more than three days prior to arrival at the Walt Disney World Resort. All sales are final, and not eligible for an exchange or refund. |
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Discounts for Annual Passholders |
Room discounts through April 12, 2014 Annual passholders enjoy a discount of up to 37 percent off regular room rates at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts March 14–29. Advance reservations required; other discounts available during this time period. Must book before April 12. As with all discounts, rooms available at these rates are limited, and minimum length-of-stay requirements may apply for Friday or Saturday arrivals. No group rates or other discounts apply. Campsites, three-bedroom Grand Villas, and standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort are not included. Discounts vary by accommodation type and date, and availability varies by date. Moderate and Deluxe Resort suites may be available at a lower discount—check with your travel agent. Full details on the offer website (annual passholder login required). You can make your reservation through the Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-7926 or your favorite travel agent. MousePlanet's preferred Disney travel providers are MouseEarVacations.com (link), Small World Vacations (link) and Get Away Today (link). From March 6–13 (Spring Break travel):
From March 14–29 :
Check with a travel agent or Walt Disney World for other rate discounts during this time period. |
Discounts for Disney Rewards VISA & Debit Card Holders |
Room and ticket discount for travel dates from February 24 through June 15 No discounts available March 6–14 and April 13–19. Buy a minimum four day ticket and get a day free. Room discounts include:
20% off select guided tours Disney Visa cardholders receive 20% off the non-discounted price of selected guided tours for up to 10 people. The cardholder must participate in the tour, and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card. Tours included:
10% off select restaurants Disney Visa cardholders receive 10% off the check when you pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Discount excludes alcohol.
10% off merchandise Disney Visa cardholders receive 10% off at participating Disney-owned retail location when you spend a minimum of $50 and pay with a Disney's Visa Card and/or Disney Rewards Redemption Card (be sure to request the discount). Read all of the restrictions on the Disney Visa website. Free 5×7 character photo at a private meet and greet location at Epcot Present your Disney's Premier Visa Card or Disney Rewards Visa Card for access to a private character meet and greet at Epcot for the cardholder and up to 5 guests. The event is hosted daily from 1pm – 7pm inside Innoventions West at Epcot. You'll receive one free 5 x 7 character photo per day. |
Discounts for Florida Residents |
Room discounts through April 8, 2014 Florida residents enjoy a discount of up to 37 percent off regular room rates at select Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts from March 14 to 29, 2014. Advance reservations required; other discounts available during this time period. Must book before April 8. As with all discounts, rooms available at these rates are limited, and minimum length-of-stay requirements may apply for Friday or Saturday arrivals. No group rates or other discounts apply. Campsites, three-bedroom Grand Villas, and standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort are not included. Discounts vary by accommodation type and date, and availability varies by date. Moderate and Deluxe Resort suites may be available at a lower discount—check with your travel agent. Full details on the offer website. You can make your reservation through the Walt Disney World website or by calling (407) 939-7926 or your favorite travel agent. MousePlanet's preferred Disney travel providers are MouseEarVacations.com (link), Small World Vacations (link) and Get Away Today (link). From March 6 to 13, 2014 (Spring Break Travel):
From March 14 to 29, 2014:
Check with a travel agent or Walt Disney World for other rate discounts during this time period. |
Discounts for U.K. Residents |
2014 Free Dining offer for U.K. residents 2014 Free Dining offers for U.K. residents have been released. From the information posted on the Virgin Holidays website, it appears the 2014 program offers free Quick Service Dining Plan plan when booking at a Moderate resort, and free Dining Plan when booking at Deluxe resorts, Old Key West or Saratoga Springs. There are also offers for a free $200 Disney Gift Card and/or a 14-day ticket for the price of a 7-day ticket depending on travel dates. These particular offers are valid for U.K. residents only. |
