Mickey Pants on the Hub Grass!: A June 2015 Dining Report - Complete!

[mare1203]

Following along for food and wedding planning! It is my hope that my fiance and I can have a Disney vow renewal one of these days down the road And all the food looks great too I love the Trader Sams review - I definitely want to try and get here on our next trip, but we have so much to do I'm not sure how likely it is!

Glad you all seem to have had a lovely time so far, aside from a few bumps in the road.

I would highly recommend DFW for a vow renewal. We just love them over there and they do a wonderful job helping you plan. Trader Sam's is awesome, but I agree, so hard to fit in! There's just too much to do. Thanks for reading!

Following along! Enjoying your report so far Always happy to hear someone enjoyed BOG dinner, we've been there 5x-it's one of our favorite TS restaurants.

Welcome aboard! Yes, we enjoy dinner there much more than I thought we would. Hoping someday it becomes an ADR I won't have to stalk, but I'm not holding my breath.

What a fantastic first day!

Thanks! There's plenty more to come!

 

[mare1203]

The next morning, I woke up and headed to my favorite morning spot in all of Walt Disney World...The Kona Island Coffee Stand! My dad gets up early every morning and goes for a run. When I woke up, he was already gone, so I put on some clothes and went out in search of him. It didn't take me long to run into him with some coffee, but the man had not called and asked if I wanted one! Good thing I had a magic band with charging privileges and was already headed that way. When I inquired about where he obtained said coffee he replied 'Captain Cooks'. After chiding him a bit, I got him to turn around and go with me to the proper coffee spot.


In the mornings, the Kona Island is home to some familiar Disney pastries with a coffee bar where they can make mochas, etc. However, the main attraction is actually located on top of the case in the picture...the Kona press pot. This baby is a 100% legit reason to stay at the Polynesian. Also, the Kona Island case includes some Hawaiian influenced pastries, like a macadamia nut cinnamon roll.


I was quick to order a press pot, and our Cast Member friend (she's been working the Kona Island forever) informed us it would take 7 minutes to steep. Cool. We grabbed a seat at the bar and proceeded to wait the agonizing 7 minutes for Kona coffee. When it was ready, she poured it into 2 cups and we were on our way. There is enough in the pot for 2 regular cups with room for milk, etc. It was totally worth the wait.

We arrived back at the room and started to get ready for the day. I had made FP’s at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , so we knew where we were headed. We decided to eat there rather than trekking over to Captain Cook’s and then coming all the way back to retrieve the car.


We also decided to do something that day we almost never do...dress alike! For the grand re-opening of the Great Ceremonial House, the Disney Store featured a limited edition Disney’s Polynesian Village t-shirt, and I decided to purchase them for us. I think they turned out pretty good.


Anyway, back to the food. Dressed to find one another, we made our way to Disney’s Hollywood Studios just as the park was opening. Our first stop was breakfast at a perennial favorite, Starring Rolls.


Usually this place is a madhouse, but thanks to Starbucks helping disperse the crowd, there wasn’t too much a line that morning. There was a variety of pastries to choose from ranging from bagels to cinnamon rolls to cupcakes if your little heart so desired. We aren’t above getting a cupcake for breakfast, but did not do so this particular morning. Kathy and I had planned on going back for one of the brownies pictured above, but we forgot and never made it back. Next time!


Both Kathy and Jeff chose a cheese danish. These are ubiquitous at Disney and can be counted on as a good choice, provided you like cheese danish. They both gave this a thumbs up. My dad and I decided to split a cinnamon roll and an everything bagel. The cinnamon roll could have used a microwave for a few seconds, but it was sweet and doughy with a good amount of frosting on top. The bagel was...a bagel. Nothing special, but it hit the spot.
​

 

[kastoney]

That coffee sounds amazing. We've had it at Kona, but had no idea they served it at the coffee bar too. We're staying at Poly next trip so I have a feeling we will be frequent visitors.

Love starring rolls too. Though I would have likely ordered the brownie for a very nutritious breakfast ; )

 

[ariane37]

I love those Polynesian shirts! We went with friends back in 2012 and I did get them and DH to all wear Mickey shirts (I was, too). They didn't match but at least we had a theme! The 4 kids were all in Perry shirts, best we could do. Husbands wouldn't wear Perry and the 2 older boys weren't agreeable to Mickey that trip Disney: pretty much the only place adults can get away with matching shirts

 

[jabead]

I had no idea that you could get the Kona press pot at anywhere other than Kona Cafe. Great find! Oh, and I love your Polynesian shirts!

 

[nicoleakr]

Following

 

[mare1203]

That coffee sounds amazing. We've had it at Kona, but had no idea they served it at the coffee bar too. We're staying at Poly next trip so I have a feeling we will be frequent visitors.

Love starring rolls too. Though I would have likely ordered the brownie for a very nutritious breakfast ; )

This is the first time I've seen it offered at the Island. I'm not sure if it's a new thing or not, but I'll take it!

Haha, my pick for breakfast in DHS is usually the carrot cake cookie!

I love those Polynesian shirts! We went with friends back in 2012 and I did get them and DH to all wear Mickey shirts (I was, too). They didn't match but at least we had a theme! The 4 kids were all in Perry shirts, best we could do. Husbands wouldn't wear Perry and the 2 older boys weren't agreeable to Mickey that trip Disney: pretty much the only place adults can get away with matching shirts

Thanks! You are right about the matching shirts. I'm usually not a fan, but in this case I was willing to make an exception. I think it would be fun to Disneybound sometime, but I feel as though that would take too much work, lol.

I had no idea that you could get the Kona press pot at anywhere other than Kona Cafe. Great find! Oh, and I love your Polynesian shirts!

Thanks! We saw them making the press pots there when we ate at Kona. Not sure if they moved the operation over there or it's a new addition. Either way, I'm all in.

Following

Welcome! Glad to have you along!

 

[gardengirl628]

Great reviews! So excited to read about your wedding tasting....and I think you all look cute in your matching shirts!

 

[mare1203]

After filling our bellies we were ready to head down Sunset and begin our day! Since Disney is in the process of gutting Hollywood Studios we managed to hit all of our must-do’s at least once that morning, including my favorite ride, and were done by about 1:00. I heard Disney is going to start leaking info at ComicCon this weekend with most of the information coming at D23. Here's to hoping they announce what everyone already knows, that DHS will be re-imagined to include Star Wars and an expanded Pixar Place, soon!

After all those rides, we were starting to feel hungry and headed out in search of some food. Like most people, there isn’t anywhere in DHS that excites us for lunch, so we decided to leave the park. Kathy and I both had a pretty good idea of where we would be going, but we decided to ask my dad what he had in mind. Surprisingly, he didn’t say the ESPN Club, which he loves. However, after a not-so-subtle hint at ESPN he was all in and we were driving across the street to the Boardwalk.




We arrived at the ESPN Club which was not busy at all. We did make a slight mistake in getting a table rather than sitting at the bar, but it didn’t matter much. When it’s not crowded, you might as well go seat yourself in the bar area. It’s open seating and they have high tops, low tops, and booths in addition to the actual bar. We were seated along the windows of the main dining room.


Case in point about the dining room being essentially empty.


Our seater gave us some menus and we proceeded to look things over. ESPN Club has your typical bar food, but we find it above average for the most part. It’s not fancy, but it does the trick.


For an appetizer we ordered the nachos, which, in all honesty was the real reason for the trip over. Their nachos are awesome. Every time we come there seems to be a new presentation.


We really enjoyed this one as it allowed maximum chip to topping ratio. Plus, putting it on a long platter meant everyone could grab without bumping into others.


Before bringing out our entrees, our waiter brought us each a cup of ketchup and, as you can see, one cup of mustard. We decided to be artistic and this was the result.


Jeff decided to order the pulled pork grilled cheese for his entree. I had heard about this from another report (I think yours, KAStoney!), and it seems so obvious! How had we never thought to make a pulled pork grilled cheese before?? Jeff polished this off quickly and deemed it ‘delicious’. One of these days I'll figure out how to get my seat mates to take proper dining report photos.


Kathy ordered the french dip. She said it was good, but she wished that she had remembered to order it with some cheese on top. We tried it and thought it a little bland and boring. It definitely needed some spices or a kick of something, but it was satisfactory.


My dad and I decided to split a burger and chose the Southwest burger. They graciously split the burger for us and brought us each our own plate. I appreciate it when places do this for you. The burger was good, but not spectacular. I attribute this not to the actual burger, but to the fact that we have a place here in Arizona that makes a phenomenal southwest burger, and I’m spoiled. Thus, it was clearly my own fault for ordering it. I don’t know that I’d order that particular burger again, but I’d definitely order another burger from ESPN.

All in all, this was a great place to grab lunch after a morning in the parks. Unless it's football season or there is a big sporting event on, ESPN is a casual sports bar without a wait. The food isn't fancy, but we find it consistently good.


Before heading back to the Polynesian for some relaxing pool time we walked over to the Croquet Lawn. This is the wedding ceremony location Kathy and Jeff chose for October. Jeff had never seen it before. I think it's a beautiful location and will be a great ceremony spot. Until next time, foodies!​

 

[kastoney]

I don't think I've ever seen ESPN that empty before, but I'm not sure I've actually been there when there hasn't been a game of some sort going on. Those nachos look absolutely divine, but I'm a sucker for all things nacho. And while the pulled pork grilled cheese wasn't me, it totally looks up by alley and amazing. Sorry the rest of the food wasn't completely up to the same level, but it looks like it hit the spot.

 

[AllyinWonderland]

Loving your reviews so far!

While I do enjoy the cupcakes at BOG, I really think they dropped the ball with the dessert menu for dinner. With a French inspired restaurant, they should have gone with more unique options in my opinion.

I still have not tried a press pot of coffee at the Poly, but I really need to some time.

That pulled pork grilled cheese sounds delicious!

 

[mare1203]

I don't think I've ever seen ESPN that empty before, but I'm not sure I've actually been there when there hasn't been a game of some sort going on. Those nachos look absolutely divine, but I'm a sucker for all things nacho. And while the pulled pork grilled cheese wasn't me, it totally looks up by alley and amazing. Sorry the rest of the food wasn't completely up to the same level, but it looks like it hit the spot.

I think it's one of the emptiest times we've been in as well! The bar was a little busier. I'm actually surprised they didn't just tell us to find a seat there instead.

Loving your reviews so far!

While I do enjoy the cupcakes at BOG, I really think they dropped the ball with the dessert menu for dinner. With a French inspired restaurant, they should have gone with more unique options in my opinion.

I still have not tried a press pot of coffee at the Poly, but I really need to some time.

That pulled pork grilled cheese sounds delicious!

Right? Because France isn't known for good desserts or something?!? You should definitely try the press pot. Still the best coffee on property outside of Victoria and Albert's.

 

[mare1203]

We take a break from our regularly schedule programming for a ‘very special episode’ of this report. After our lunch at ESPN we decided to head back to the resort for some much needed pool time. However, during that time we had a great opportunity to tour the new Poly Bungalows! I figured you all might be interested in seeing some pics, so here ya go!


We met up with a guide from DVC at 3:30 and she took us over to the Bungalows.


If you stay in the bungalows you will have to use your Magic Bands to access your suite. Here we are feeling all special going through the gates!




And we’re in!


Here is my dad “welcoming” us into his Bungalow, lol.


We really enjoyed touring the bungalow and experiencing the space. These are definitely cool. The TV embedded in the mirror was pretty awesome.


Kathy hanging out in the outdoor egg chair.


Don’t mind me, taking a nap over the water with a view of Space Mountain and the Contemporary...I’m good here.


There is a master bedroom




A 2nd bedroom with a bed and a pullout.


In the main living space you will find this couch pulls out to a bed.


There is also a 2nd pullout similar to the one found in the studio. Note the nightly water pageant as the artwork to the back of this pullout bed! ​

​

This was the view of Cinderella’s Castle from the outdoor space. Pretty cool. Our guide said the biggest complaint about the bungalows has been the noise from the ferry boats. During the summers it can start as early as 6 and end as late as 4 a.m., which is a valid concern. We didn't notice it with the doors closed, but we also weren't staying the night. These honestly didn’t convince me to shell out the $$ for a stay, though. I also think it would be a bit crowded for the 8 this thing says it holds if everyone was in the space at the same time. We like the parks and I would want to get my money’s worth for sure. I’m not sure we would be able to (especially seeing as I can’t handle being at Disney and not doing at least one ride a day).​

​

After touring the Bungalow’s we hung out at the Poly pool. They were not giving out wristbands while we were there, but you did need your Magic Bands to get in. You can access the bar from either side of the new fencing. We never felt as though the pool was too crowded, so the implementation of the magic band readers has definitely cut down on the pool jumpers.
​

I would say this is the exact moment I hit my “aaah, I’m home” moment. There’s just something so perfectly wonderful and comfortable about being on property for me. People often laugh when I tell them I’m most relaxed when I’m at Disney. But really, there’s nothing better than hanging out in front of the Lava Pool with a view of the Great Ceremonial House and enjoying the amazingness that is Walt Disney World.
​

​

Add in a drink? Well, now that’s the cherry on top.

Next time, we're back to our regularly scheduled programming with a trip to Downtown Disney and Raglan Road!​

 

[butiflfeet]

Lucky you touring a bungalow! I'd love to stay in one but I really can't justify the amount of points it would take! The Poly is my absolute favorite resort though so someday...

 

[kastoney]

Those bungalow picture look amazing, thanks for sharing.

Glad to hear about the uncrowded pool. We are staying there in September and that was a concern of ours. And good to know the drinks are flowing from the bar ; )

 

[AllyinWonderland]

Thank you for sharing your pictures from touring the bungalow. I would love to stay in one at some point but I highly doubt that I would get my money's worth.

I agree that Disney can absolutely be relaxing. Even with a toddler in tow last trip, we had many very relaxed moments at Disney.

 

[vettegirl]

Awesome bungalow review!

 

[ChrissyBeth29]

Great reviews thus far. I dream of staying at the Poly again. I haven't stayed there since the 1990's. The wedding looks like it will be in a GREAT location! Enjoy!

 

[JKSWonder]

WDW is where I'm at my most relaxed too. My family thinks I'm crazy.

 

[mare1203]

Lucky you touring a bungalow! I'd love to stay in one but I really can't justify the amount of points it would take! The Poly is my absolute favorite resort though so someday...

Pro-Tip: We just went to the DVC desk at the Great Ceremonial House and they were offering tours in the afternoons from 2-4. I would assume they will continue to do so for a while, as long as the Bungalows and studios aren't full.

Those bungalow picture look amazing, thanks for sharing.

Glad to hear about the uncrowded pool. We are staying there in September and that was a concern of ours. And good to know the drinks are flowing from the bar ; )

Don't worry, all your favorite bartenders are still working hard! I don't think you'll have a problem with the pool in September.

Thank you for sharing your pictures from touring the bungalow. I would love to stay in one at some point but I highly doubt that I would get my money's worth.

I agree that Disney can absolutely be relaxing. Even with a toddler in tow last trip, we had many very relaxed moments at Disney.

Thanks! I kind of have a feeling Disney will be selling a lot of 1 and 2-night stays at the Bungalows. I couldn't imagine many people wanting to stay longer. But, then again, I don't have unlimited amounts of $$ to burn...

Awesome bungalow review!

Thanks!

Great reviews thus far. I dream of staying at the Poly again. I haven't stayed there since the 1990's. The wedding looks like it will be in a GREAT location! Enjoy!

We are looking forward to the croquet lawn. It's out of the way and I love the views!

WDW is where I'm at my most relaxed too. My family thinks I'm crazy.

Haha! Glad to know I'm not the only one. People look at me like I have 2 heads when I tell them that.