Monthly Archives: July 2015

‘Go Your Own Way’! Spaceship Earth TRIVIA Revealed!

Wow!  You really, really are sharp Disney fans!

When I wrote yesterday’s question, I knew that only the Fleet of mind “wood” (would?) be able to knock such a Big Mac caliber of question out of the park!

If you consult ultimateclassicrock.com (did anyone even know that there is such a site?), you’ll find that they rate Fleetwood Mac’s 1977 song – ‘Go Your Own Way’ – as the band’s #1 best song ever.

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When you enter Spaceship Earth’s “California” garage, you’ll find that our diligent inventor is a big enough fan of that famous band to have their poster adorning the wall.

But, then, about 30% of you “eagle-eyed” Epcot fans knew that already!  You truly do pay attention to Disney’s details!  Great job!

Spaceship Earth TRIVIA Returns! How Well Do YOU Know Epcot’s Icon?

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again!  Each time I enjoy a tour through Epcot’s iconic, silver sphere, I try to pick out some little detail that might make for a great trivia challenge.

Spaceship Earth & Palms

Well, here’s a really tough one!  I think.

You’re nearing the very top of Spaceship Earth.  You enter a garage in – somewhere in California, maybe?  A man hunches over a desk.  He’s clearly building one of the world’s very-first home computers.

On the wall, over his head, is a poster.  It pays tribute to a 1970s rock band.  That band is __________.

The Suitcase Gurgles On …

Yes, my friends, Mrs. All in WDW and I stopped by for another quick visit to Old Key West’s Gurgling Suitcase.  If you missed it, here’s my earlier review!

My lovely wife and I have come to the conclusion that Disney’s Old Key West is a very under-appreciated resort.  Complete with lighthouse, it’s beautifully themed!

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Of course, the Gurgling Suitcase is usually our main target of interest.  Why?  Generally, it’s because we’re in search of an adult refreshment and a quick lunch!

Suitcase’s “outside while you’re inside” atmosphere doesn’t hurt either.  Especially when it’s a 98 degree Summer day!  You can enjoy the outdoors while you lounge in air-conditioned comfort!

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For lunch on this July day, Mrs. All in WDW enjoyed a serving of the Gurgling Suitcase’s Pulled Pork BBQ Nachos.

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A pile of house-made potato chips, smothered by pulled pork, fresh jalapenos, cheese, sour cream, and salsa was quite a filling lunch!  Pretty reasonable, too, at $8.29.

I was a bit more expensive, I’m afraid.  The first time we visited, our bartender raved about the menu’s Fish Sandwich.  It’s $13.99, but he claimed it was a phenomenal dish.  I had to give it a shot!

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Also very filling, it was accompanied by the aforementioned house-made chips.  The remoulade is fantastic!  It’s the same as they provide with their Conch Fritters, by the way.

Gurgling Suitcase's Conch Fritters.

Gurgling Suitcase’s Conch Fritters.  We had these on our first visit.

But, back to the fish sandwich.  I found the “star” of this “hoagie” – fresh grouper cheeks – to be a bit stronger taste than I prefer.  Honestly, I would have preferred a much milder fish.

For us, when it comes to Old Key West’s Gurgling Suitcase, the big “win” is the setting.

We love a good outside bar – hence our love for Laguna Bar at Disney’s Coronado Springs.  To be able to enjoy the “outside”, at a very nicely themed resort, while sitting in cool, conditioned air?  Well, that just rocks!

Snacking at Sunshine “Sweets”!

Mrs. All in WDW and I make a great team.  Sharing is the name of the game … especially when it comes to sweets!

Now, this is our kind of breakfast! Found at Sunshine Seasons in The Land pavilion in Epcot, we present a Carrot Cake Cupcake and an Apple Caramel Crunch!

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In Mrs. All in WDW’s own words, “One of the best pieces of carrot cake I’ve ever had, but I’d still pick the Apple Crunch first”!  Take it from her, folks.  She knows what she’s talking about!

There’s a lot to find at Sunshine Seasons, my friends.  Breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can’t go wrong!

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Food & Wine ’15: First Impressions – Part II

And, back to my most-favorite topic, my friends!  Friday, September 25th.  Orlando.  Walt Disney World.  Epcot.  World Showcase.  Be there!

2015’s Food & Wine “party” sees the return of the Caribbean Island country – Dominican Republic.

When it comes to building the All in WDW Pre-Festival Top 25, I’m giving serious consideration to all three of their offerings:

  • Roasted Pork
  • Yuca Soufflé topped with Griddled Cheese
  • Seared Grouper

Sadly, I can’t claim the same about Germany.  When it comes to them, I just don’t know what more to say.  Only this … Epcot must sell a whole bunch of Pasta Gratin and Roast Bratwurst.

From a cuisine that includes any kind of schnitzel recipe, there’s just no imagination, as far as I’m concerned.  No changes from past years.

Time for something new, Germany!

Time for something new, Germany!

Same over-sized brat and too-hard pretzel bun, I’m sure.  You’re quite hopeless, Germany.

My gripe with Italy is much bigger, though.  Anyone who followed All in WDW last year knows just how disappointed I was to see their Ravioli recipe get revised.

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2014’s Cheese Ravioli.

Simple Cheese Ravioli, folks?  Might look good, but it paled in comparison to Italy’s previous version – a delicious symphony of baked cheese ravioli, creamy beef bolognese, parmesan, and mozzarella.

An umbrella table in Italy.  2013’s delicious ravioli.  Wine.  All I need is Illuminations to complete the picture!

Fans, this dish was an other-worldly blend of flavors – a culinary orchestra that I just couldn’t deny. I really wish they’d bring it back.

I’ve heard Food & Wine fans cry in despair far and wide.  Where’s the Pepper Bacon Hash, Farm Fresh?

2014's Pepper Bacon Hash.

2014’s Pepper Bacon Hash.

Replaced by Loaded Mac n’ Cheese with Nueske’s Pepper Bacon.  Hmm.  OK.  I’ll give it a try, but, speaking on behalf of my readers, it better be good.

As I mentioned a few days ago, China’s Mongolian Beef – All in WDW’s 2013 Food & Wine “champion” – fell off Epcot’s radar this year.  Fortunately, Hawaii’s Kālua Pork Slider survived.

The two-time "champ" is back!

The two-time “champ” is back!

This dish won All in WDW’s title in 2011 and 2012.  The key to enjoying it, I’ve found, is its spicy mayo.  Ask for extra.  You won’t regret it!  Trust me!

Hooray!  2014’s “winner” returns, as well!  I know that lamb isn’t for everyone …

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Ask for extra chutney!  Trust me … do it!

… but the spicy tomato chutney blanketing this Lamb Meatball transforms it into a phenomenal bite.  Very highly recommended!

Say it isn’t so, South Korea!  Where’s your Kimchi Dog?!

2014's Kimchi Dog.

2014’s Kimchi Dog.

Sure, your Barbecue Short Rib sounds great, but the Kimchi Dog?  Uh, couldn’t you have “killed” the Roasted Pork Lettuce Wrap instead?

I can guarantee you one thing. Michael Symon’s show, “The Chew”, will play a very big role in my 2015 Food & Wine experience.

Yes.  I said Michael Symon’s show.  He’s a Cleveland boy.  So am I.  I have his back!  Spoiler alert!  All four of their entrees will make my 2015 Pre-Festival Top 25!  Check ’em out!

Sustainable Chew

  • Pork Spareribs
  • Ricotta & Zucchini Ravioli

Chew Labs

  • Olive Oil Poached Salmon
  • New York Strip

Before I leave, folks, I have a request.  I need a few volunteers.

Do you get excited by the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival?  Well, I’m “cooking” up a special “game”.  If you’re interested in learning more, message me on Facebook or Twitter.  I’ll fill you in on the details!