Taryn's Mad Hatter Adventures

- Kona Cafe Breakfast Review
  
  Posted at 10:31 am by taryngirl, on October 21, 2020
  
  January 2020
  
  I took this quick trip with my cousin Alex. One of the doctors where she works was also going to be in Disney at the same time, and he wanted to meet up for breakfast. We found ourselves at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort at Kona Cafe with a reservation.
  
  I’ve written about this resort a few times, and I always take this picture! I absolutely love this resort and all it has to offer.
  
  The theming is my favorite, as I love tropical places. And the restaurants are some of my favorites! The location is also amazing. It’s a quick monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom, and walking distance to TTC to catch a monorail to Epcot.
  
  The menu in January 2020
  
  The menu in January 2020
  
  The ceiling!
  
  We started off sharing the Tropical Fruit Plate $10. This had fresh fruit, boba balls, and some really good kind of honey type drizzle.
  
  One of us had the French Toast $13. It came with a really good caramel banana sauce and your choice of bacon, sausage or ham. It was standard French toast, but the caramel banana sauce made the dish!
  
  We also had the Polynesian Egg Platter $16. Also delicious!
  
  Overall we enjoyed our meal and time together. The prices compared to a quick service location are more. The food quality is a little bit better than counter service. If you want a relaxing atmosphere and have time to sit, try this table service breakfast! If you are in a rush to get to the parks or on more of a budget, skip the table service and go quick service.
  
  Posted in Breakfast, Dining Review, Polynesian Village Resort | 0 Comments | Tagged Breakfast, Dining Review, Kona Cafe, Polynesian Village Resort
- Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort
  
  Posted at 9:45 am by taryngirl, on October 15, 2020
  
  January 2019
  
  I am using some of my free time to catch up on past trips! In January 2019, I was fortunate enough to receive training directly at Universal Orlando.
  
  We were able to tour a few different resorts on Universal Orlando property. This one is Universal’s Loews Royal Pacific Resort. This resort is set in the exotic South Seas with a tropical vibe. It’s a Premier level hotel that includes Universal Express Unlimited, which allows you to skip the regular lines (a value of $129.99 per person, per day). This is a HUGE advantage! They offer standard rooms, club level rooms, and suites.
  
  With 1000 guest rooms and suites available, there is a type of accommodation for everyone!
  
  Two queen beds that sleep up to five with a rollaway
  
  Besides looking at the rooms, we were able to tour around the beautiful grounds. This courtyard was amazing! And yes, there were people just sitting out there relaxing.
  
  There are several different dining/beverage options at this resort. I didn’t take many pictures though because there were a lot of people sitting and eating! I didn’t want to make anyone feel uncomfortable if they saw me…
  
  Overall I loved this resort! Of the three Premier level hotels available at Universal Orlando, Royal Pacific is the most affordable in terms of cost. The biggest benefit, as I mentioned before, is the fact that Universal Express Unlimited is included in the cost. If you are comparing pricing between the Value and Prime level hotels, factor in the cost of the Express pass. This allows you to skip the regular line on participating rides.
  
  Posted in Royal Pacific Resort, Uncategorized, Universal Orlando | 0 Comments | Tagged Royal Pacific Resort, Universal Orlando
- Grand Floridian Cafe Breakfast Review
  
  Posted at 11:07 am by taryngirl, on October 2, 2020
  
  1/30/2020
  
  I am writing this post Covid closure. This is from my trip in January! In looking at the current menu, it seems they have taken several things off of the menu for now. Boo! Hopefully they will be back!
  
  After briefly checking out the Club Level area at the Contemporary Resort, we hopped on the monorail, which is conveniently located right inside the resort, and headed to the Grand Floridian. Our breakfast reservation at the Grand Floridian Cafe was at 9:00 a.m.
  
  This is the glorious site when you are dropped off from the monorail and head inside the doors to the resort. It’s amazing!
  
  Looking down into the lobby area
  
  I wanted to get a glimpse of the new Enchanted Rose Lounge that opened just a few months prior.
  
  The entrance was roped off, so I couldn’t get inside to take any pictures, but here are a few from outside the rope.
  
  You can click my link above to check out the details and menu. It’s definitely on the pricier side, with just a few food items available, but lots of beverages.
  
  From there, we just walked down the steps to the Grand Floridian Cafe. Neither of us had ever eaten here, so it was on our list to check out. The menu was a brunch menu and looked really good!
  
  I started with a cup of hot tea, and Alex started with coffee.
  
  They brought her a whole pot, so that was nice!
  
  A view of some of the dining room
  
  Complimentary biscuits with an orange butter were served. They were warm and good.
  
  Alex ordered the Brioche French Toast–Madagascar vanilla bean scented brioche French toast with bacon–$17
  
  Fun fact…if you ordered pancakes, waffles, or French toast, you could also order an “add-on.” We chose: Fresh blueberries, granola, lemon curd and blueberry sauce $3.50
  
  This was a fabulous addition and we were really happy we got it!
  
  A side of French toast
  
  I ordered the Steak and Eggs–sirloin steak, cheesy hash brown casserole, 2 eggs, housemade steak sauce $20
  
  This was so good! I would definitely order this again. All of it was wonderful.
  
  Overall, I give this breakfast/brunch a 10/10! I had a reservation set for May, but that trip was canceled due to Covid…and then I made a reservation for August, and that trip was also canceled. I will return! There was too much on the menu I wanted to try.
  
  Posted in Breakfast, Dining Review, Grand Floridian, Grand Floridian Cafe, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Breakfast, Brunch, Dining Review, Grand Floridian, Grand Floridian Cafe
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Theme Park View Atrium Club Level
  
  Posted at 11:45 am by taryngirl, on September 28, 2020
  1/30/2020
  
  Picking up where we last left off…
  
  We had been staying at All Star Movies, but were making a move to another resort. We woke up this morning pretty early, packed up and took a Lyft to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. We had breakfast reservations at a new-to-me restaurant, the Grand Floridian Cafe at 9:00 a.m. We wanted to get to the resort, check in if possible, drop our luggage, and head to breakfast.
  
  I had stayed in this resort previously in the Main Tower–Theme Park View. I personally love this resort! I love that the monorail goes through it, I love that you can walk to the Magic Kingdom, and I love the quick service Contempo Cafe! This time, because I’m a travel agent, I was able to secure a Theme Park View– Atrium Club Level room for an amazing deal. I have NEVER stayed Club Level at Disney, so was super excited to experience it!
  
  Walking into the lobby. You can see a little quick coffee counter there.
  
  A view of the check in area
  
  I had done some research and googling about what to expect when checking in, and kept reading to just go directly up to the Club Level check in desk. However, we were arriving here super early, and wanted them to hold our luggage while we went to breakfast, so I wanted to be sure. We checked in at the regular check in desk to make sure our MagicBands were working correctly and then she sent us on our way upstairs.
  
  To get to Club Level, we had to tap our MagicBands on the Mickey. Notice there is no floor 13!
  
  There are small check in desks as soon as you exit the elevator, so we stopped in there. They gave us some information and then told us to enjoy! Of course we had to check out the lounge before going to breakfast.
  
  The Lounge schedule was as follows:
  - Coffee 6:30-7:00 a.m.
  - Continental Breakfast 7:00-10:30 a.m.
  - Afternoon Refreshments 12:00-4:00 p.m.
  - Contemporary Flavors 5:00-7:00 p.m.
  - Desserts and Cordials 8:00-10:00 p.m.
  The view from this lounge is amazing, as you can see Magic Kingdom!
  
  The view from the Club Level floor
  
  I thought the selection for a continental breakfast was very good!
  
  We didn’t have a lot of time before we had to get on the monorail to head to the Grand Floridian for our breakfast reservation. That’s up next!
  Posted in Club Level, Contemporary Resort, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Club Level, Contemporary Resort, Theme Park View
- An Evening at Magic Kingdom
  
  Posted at 12:10 pm by taryngirl, on September 21, 2020
  
  1/29/20
  
  From Disney Springs, we took the bus to the Grand Floridian and then the monorail to Magic Kingdom. I think it’s super important to know your options for transportation ahead of time. Sometimes there is more than one option, sometimes things are not operating, etc. Also, don’t underestimate how long it will actually take you!
  
  This is the view of the train station from just inside the entrance gates.
  
  Getting ready to walk down Main Street U.S.A.
  
  One of my favorite sites!
  
  Main Street Philharmonic Band
  
  I can honestly say in all of my trips to Magic Kingdom, I have never seen the Main Street Philharmonic band performing! This was quite a treat. Maybe because we always hit rope drop at Magic Kingdom, and they don’t perform until the afternoon? We are usually heading back to room at this time or busy on rides. This was a pleasant surprise!
  
  If you have Snapchat, be sure to check out your place on the map if you have your location turned on!
  
  We had a FP+ for Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, so headed there first thing. That’s my favorite ride in Magic Kingdom! From there we headed to Country Bear Jamboree since we had to wait a little bit for our next FP+ at Pirates of the Caribbean.
  
  Country Bear Jamboree–corny, but classic Disney!
  
  Dance party in the street!
  
  When we exited the show, these characters were all out on the street having a dance party! I have never seen this happening, but have seen just random bear characters walking down the street.
  
  Our next stop was the Enchanted Tiki Room. Also a Disney classic! A great spot during a rain shower or a super hot day!
  
  Have I mentioned that I LOVE my iPhone 11? These pics were taken in very dark conditions with no flash. From there we headed to our Pirates of the Caribbean FP+. After leaving Pirates, we made our way toward Tomorrowland. The Move It! Shake It! Dance & Play It! Street Party was going on.
  
  We had a FP+ at Peter Pan, so I think we rode on the People Mover then made our way to Fantasyland. After Peter Pan, we went to the Haunted Mansion. I just LOVE how my pictures turned out here!
  
  After that, it was time to make our way to a spot to watch the Happily Ever After fireworks. Of course we had to walk past the Tangled bathrooms! This area is so gorgeous at night!
  
  Our view for the fireworks!
  
  Fireworks tip…to start, people seem to stay on the sidewalks and out of the streets. You CAN stand in the street. My tip is to stand either to the right or left of the castle on the street about mid-hub. Make yourself big, because people will start filling in and you don’t want to be squished! (Although with Covid right now we don’t really have to worry about this…but when things return to normal!). If you know you want to go to a ride in Tomorrowland, stand to the right. If you want to go to Adventureland stand to the left. It’s a complete mob scene right when they are over. We tend to stand still for a little bit until the crowd starts to disperse.
  
  After this amazing display, we did head back to our resort. We were checking out from All Star Movies and heading to the Contemporary Club Level! <—————–Up Next!
  
  Posted in Disney, Magic Kingdom, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Disney, Happily Ever After, Magic Kingdom, Touring Plan, Walt Disney World
- Lunch at Enzo’s Hideaway – Disney Springs
  
  Posted at 4:55 pm by taryngirl, on September 10, 2020
  
  1/29/20
  
  Upon leaving Animal Kingdom, we hopped on a bus to Old Key West so we could get to Disney Springs for our highly anticipated lunch at Enzo’s Hideaway. Usually when I go to Disney Springs, I like to eat at the same places because I have my favorites! Before the huge expansion, my favorite place was Wolfgang Puck Express. Then I tried Raglan Road and that was yummy and entertaining. And then I tried Morimoto and that was super delicious and just beautiful inside. And finally Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’, which has become my #1 favorite restaurant at Disney Springs. The appetizers, main courses, and desserts are SO GOOD!
  
  For this trip, I was traveling with my cousin. We decided to try something brand new! Enzo’s Hideaway was available, so we grabbed a reservation for it. But first…transportation! There is no direct transportation from a Disney park to Disney Springs before 4:00 p.m. You have to take a bus to a resort for a transfer. We decided to take the bus to Old Key West and then enjoy a boat ride over.
  
  Our boat awaiting us!
  
  The boat dock, which was empty at this time of day!
  
  Some views on our ride:
  
  This is an Amphicar on a tour from The Boathouse. You can rent them and take a spin!
  
  There is also a ballon ride called Aerophile that you can do!
  
  We made our way towards Enzo’s. Now, it was slightly confusing because there are actually two different Enzo restaurants. There’s Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, which features authentic Italian cuisine set in a transformed airline terminal. And then there’s Enzo’s Hideaway, which is set underground in a tunnel bar, with a speakeasy vibe! This one was down the steps, and almost hidden. Here are some pictures of the inside:
  
  This area is outside the doors.
  
  And this is the entrance! Kind of tucked in a corner. Luckily I had read reviews so I knew where to find the door.
  
  This is the check in area. There was no one there, so we just wandered into the restaurant!
  
  I also read about this. Feel free to sign it!
  
  We still couldn’t find anyone…It was EMPTY! (We probably didn’t need a reservation.)
  
  This is the room where we were seated, and this was my view. I think there were maybe three other tables with patrons!
  
  I think you could also sign this wall if you wanted.
  
  I found this table on my way to the bathroom!
  
  The atmosphere was AMAZING! Really, really AMAZING! I would love to come back on a busy night just to see the difference. There were so many details that were perfect for the speakeasy vibe.
  
  As usual, I checked out the menu before we arrived. Of course I couldn’t decide exactly what I wanted, so made a decision on the fly! One word about the wait staff…very good and attentive. Almost too attentive, I think because there were so few tables. They had nothing else to do but check on us repeatedly!
  
  Complimentary bread with oil.
  
  Of course the bread was warm and perfect.
  
  I knew I had to have some wine, because…how could you not in this setting?! I went with my favorite, which is Moscato.
  
  Bucatini Bolognese–traditional braised meat sauce, parmigiano reggiano, basil $25
  
  I ordered the Bucatini Bolognese. This was absolutely delicious! The meat sauce was so tasty. The portion size was normal. The pasta was actually not just your average spaghetti. It was like a thick spaghetti with a big hole running through the center. It is pricey at $25, but alas, we are in Disney at a table service meal. I would definitely order this again!
  
  Classic Lasagna–thin layered egg pasta, braised short rib rag, béchamel, for di latte mozzarella, $26
  
  My cousin ordered the Classic Lasagna. This was also delicious. Super rich and a big portion! I don’t think she finished it.
  
  Needless to say, we were way too stuffed for dessert. Overall, we really liked it here. It was a nice change from what we are used to at Disney Springs. I would definitely return in the future!
  
  Posted in Dining Review, Disney, Disney Springs, Enzo's Hideaway | 0 Comments | Tagged Dining Review, Disney Springs, Enzo's Hideaway
- A Morning at Animal Kingdom
  
  Posted at 4:33 pm by taryngirl, on August 31, 2020
  
  January 29, 2020
  
  We arrived to Animal Kingdom in the morning, but not right at rope drop. The first thing I noticed once we exited the bus area, was the construction going on near the tram stop.
  
  The ticket counters
  
  The Tree of Life
  
  Our plan was to go directly to Navi River and ride that. We went from there over to Kiliminjaro Safari. There are so many amazing photo opportunities! Here are a few I took on the way over.
  
  Our Safari experience was entertaining. We were riding this standby since our FP+ were in the afternoon for Magic Kingdom. I can’t tell you the last time I stood in this line! It was probably 45 minutes. All I will say is there was a family in front of us with children that were running all over the place…climbing over barriers that they weren’t supposed to, and at one point even sitting in the window ledge over one of the bridges. It was crazy! Anyway, here are some pictures from our ride:
  
  I was really hoping to see the baby!
  
  I always hit Zuri’s Sweets Shop for a snack. This time was no exception!
  
  We made our way over to Dinosaur, which is one of my personal favorites! Again, more beautiful scenery along the way.
  
  After Dinosaur, we took a little break near the stage. While sitting there, Kevin appeared!
  
  We had lunch reservations at Disney Springs, so we decided to take a bus so we could get a transfer since there were no direct buses to Disney Springs. We did wait a longgggg time for a bus here, but once he showed up, we were happy and he was fun!
  
  Overall, a great morning at Animal Kingdom! Up next, Disney Springs Enzo’s Hideaway!
  
  Posted in Animal Kingdom, Disney, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Animal Kingdom
- La Hacienda de San Angel Dining Review
  
  Posted at 2:39 pm by taryngirl, on April 9, 2020
  
  January 28, 2020
  
  After our jaunt on the Skyliner, we rode it back to the Epcot Station and entered through the International Gateway. We had dinner reservations in Mexico at La Hacienda de San Angel, but before that, we made our way through the countries a little bit.
  
  It’s always a joy to listen to Mariachi Cobre located just outside the Mexico Pavilion! They sound really good and are super talented!
  
  There are two table service restaurants in Mexico. San Angel Inn is located INSIDE the pavilion.
  
  (By the way, I love my iPhone 11 Pro! This pic was taken with it. No flash!)
  
  We took a quick ride on the Gran Fiesta Tour before our dinner.
  
  From there, we headed outside of the pavilion and across the walk to the second table service restaurant…La Hacienda de San Angel.
  
  The view from our table (Yes we are inside! We just had a window seat.):
  
  The menu:
  
  (A side note…I have only eaten at this restaurant one other time in my life, and it was several years ago. I absolutely did not find the menu appealing at all, but my cousin wanted to try it. It ended up being my favorite meal of the trip! So I couldn’t wait to get back here.)
  
  Chips and Salsa come complimentary. The salsa was really good!
  
  I ordered the Pollo al Pastor, which was adobe marinated chicken breast with vegetables. It was spicy but delicious!
  
  My cousin ordered the Enchiladas de Vegetales.
  
  All entrees come with family style rice and beans.
  
  Overall thoughts…our server was a little crazy, but efficient. One example, when filling my water, he basically dumped the pitcher onto me and my plate of rice. The meal was so good, and I love the setting right on the lake. If you have dined inside at San Angel Inn, give this a try! I prefer the food here! They only serve during dinner.
  
  Posted in Dining Review, Disney, Epcot, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Dining Review, Epcot, La Hacienda de San Angel, Mexico Pavilion, Table Service
- Disney Skyliner and Riviera Resort
  
  Posted at 3:23 pm by taryngirl, on April 1, 2020
  
  January 28, 2020
  
  From the Beach Club, we walked to the Epcot Skyliner Station. We wanted to take a ride and check it out, as we hadn’t gotten to take a ride yet. This station is located outside of the International Gateway, which is the back entrance to Epcot. Our plan was to ride it to Disney’s Riviera Resort so we could also check that out! That is Disney’s newest resort.
  
  You can see the Skyliner routes in the maps below. These are not my pictures, but I love the satellite aerial view! For our route, we took it straight to Riviera Resort without having to get off in between.
  
  Here you can see the Epcot Station.
  
  (Here’s France in the background, and you can see where they are building the new Remy attraction.)
  
  Once up in the Skyliner, you can really see some “behind the scenes!” This is the construction of the new Remy attraction in France.
  
  Once we land at Riviera Resort, there are signs directing you where to go.
  
  Walking through this area, there are two AMAZING mosaic walls!
  
  The grounds are beautiful here! It’s a very quiet, less bustling atmosphere. You almost forget it’s a Disney Resort.
  
  I thought I took more pictures of the inside, but I guess not! We walked into the lobby and checked out the store there. It came across as a little more upscale than a regular Deluxe level resort. Kind of like a mini Grand Floridian as far as “feel” goes.
  
  If you have an extra half hour or so, check it out!
  
  Up next…La Hacienda de San Angel Dining Review!
  
  Posted in Disney, Uncategorized, Walt Disney World Resort | 0 Comments | Tagged Riviera Resort, Skyliner
- Beaches and Cream Lunch Review
  
  Posted at 2:51 pm by taryngirl, on March 31, 2020
  
  January 28, 2020
  
  After the craziness of riding Rise of the Resistance, we headed out the gates and to the boat. We took the boat to the Beach Club for our reservation at Beaches and Cream.
  
  Beaches and Cream had a makeover! The seating area was expanded and the menu received a small makeover. We couldn’t wait to check it out!
  
  The check in podium is located outside the restaurant. Generally to dine here, you must have a reservation. There is some counter seating that may be open for walk ins, but it’s tough to get in here!
  
  The menu:
  
  I can never decide what I want here, because I love this kind of food. It’s usually a toss up between the burger or the chili cheese dog (which by the way is not on the regular menu anymore), and then a dessert decision is also a struggle!
  
  Here you can see he expanded seating area inside the restaurant:
  
  I ordered the chili cheese dog, even though it wasn’t listed on the menu!
  
  Alex ordered the Reuben.
  
  Both were delicious!
  
  And for dessert, we went with the no fail No Way Jose to share.
  
  This is probably my favorite ice cream sundae in Disney! I love peanut butter and chocolate together.
  
  If you are staying in the area of Beach Club, Yacht Club or Boardwalk, this is a great lunch spot. Or even if you are going between Hollywood Studios and Epcot as we were. It’s reasonably priced for a table service, and the desserts available are fabulous!
  
  Next up…the Sky Liner and Riviera Resort!
  
  Posted in Beaches and Cream, Dining Review, Disney, Uncategorized | 0 Comments | Tagged Beach Club, Beaches and Cream, Dining Review, Food Picture, Foodie, Table Service
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