2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays Gluten Free Offerings

It's hard to believe the holiday season is upon us! And, beginning November 29 through December 30, 2019, Epcot will celebrate the season with the International Festival of the Holidays. In addition to lots of holiday cheer, the park festivities features holiday kitchens with food and drink.

Here is a listing of the current gluten free menu items that will be offered at the holiday kitchens. I will be adding prices and Disney Dining Plan Snack eligibility when available based on information from the official Epcot International Festival of the Holidays website along with info from the Disney Food Blog. I will be updating and posting information from my own visits once the festival begins.

Make sure to click on the individual pages for each booth to see food photos and find out more information.

I’ve indicated known special dietary needs (at this time). This list will change as more information is gathered.

*Note: Menus are subject to change, as is any information regarding ingredients, cross-contamination, and other special dietary needs ingredients. Always consult with the Disney culinary team for more information before consuming. Use caution when consuming any food from marketplace booths, as there is an increased risk of cross-contamination. Marketplace booths do not adhere to Disney’s traditional special dietary needs accommodations, particularly for allergies and/or celiac disease.

American Holiday Table

• Hand-carved Smoked Ham with Green Beans and Sweet Potato Casserole – Gluten Free

Festival of the Three Kings

• Pastelón: Sofrito-marinated Beef with Sweet Plantains and Olives – Gluten Free
• Queso Fresco-stuffed Arepa topped with Shrimp, Crushed Avocado Aji and Tomato Sauce – Gluten Free
• Arepas topped with Melted Queso Fresco – Gluten Free
• Tres Leches Rice Pudding with Pumpkin Seeds – Gluten Free

Holiday Sweets & Treats

• Peppermint Sundae: Chocolate Ice Cream, Whipped Cream and Peppermint Candy – Gluten Free

Las Posadas Holiday Kitchen

• Giant Tostada de Puerco: Braised Pork served on a Giant Tostada with Chipotle Black Bean Spread, Guajillo Sauce, Queso Fresco, Crema Mexicana, Pickled Onion and topped with Chicharron Dust – Gluten Free
• Tamal de Pollo: Braised Chipotle Chicken served in a Corn Masa with Yellow Mole and topped with Toasted Pumpkin Seeds, Queso Cotija and Crema Mexicana – Gluten Free

Stay tuned here on Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW for the latest 2019 Epcot International Festival of the Holidays news!

What are you most looking forward to this year at the Festival of the Holidays?

Best of the Epcot Food & Wine Festival: Top 10 Favorite Gluten Free Dishes

With the 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival under way, I thought it might be nice to rank my “Best of” dishes from this year’s festival. Of course, food preferences and “best of” lists are subjective. These are my personal favorites. Not all dishes listed are gluten free and dairy free, but I will list when they are.So, prepare to be hungry by the time you finish reading this list. Here are my Top 10 gluten free dishes from the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival.

For all Food & Wine Festival Gluten Free marketplace booth options, be sure to click over to the marketplace booth page for more info.

*Note: Menus are subject to change, as is any information regarding ingredients, cross-contamination, and other special dietary needs ingredients. Always consult with the Disney culinary team for more information before consuming. Use caution when consuming any food from marketplace booths, as there is an increased risk of cross-contamination. Marketplace booths do not adhere to Disney’s traditional special dietary needs accommodations, particularly for allergies and/or celiac disease. 10. Grilled sweet and spicy bush berry shrimp with pineapple, peppers, onions, and snap peas – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Australia Marketplace Booth

This repeat dish from the Australia Marketplace Booth is a great gluten free and dairy free option. A little sweet and a little spicy, I especially like the grilled shrimp and pineapple in this dish. A word of caution, this dish is spicier than it might seem, so having a bottle of water handy is a good idea. It’s also a bit messy, so make sure to have some napkins on hand too. But, no matter how messy you get, this dish will definitely make you want to say, “Put another shrimp on the barbie!”9. Warm chocolate pudding with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible –Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Ireland Marketplace Booth

This chocolate dessert featured in the Ireland Marketplace Booth is a classic Irish dessert all the way. More of a flourless chocolate cake than what we as Americans would call “pudding,” it’s rich and decadent. And, it’s made even better with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard, which adds a perfect touch to the full chocolate full in the pudding. Do note that this dish is served in a booth where everything else contains gluten, so always check with a cast member before consuming.8. Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Islands of the Caribbean Marketplace Booth

New to the festival this year is the Islands of the Caribbean Marketplace Booth, and they have one gluten free and dairy free dish – the Mojo Pork. I love all things pork, so you know that I had to try it. While I prefer the pork dish at the Brazil Marketplace Booth, I found the Mojo Pork a substantial portion with full, bright flavors. The black beans featured here have more of a vinegar punch to them, and combined with the pickled red onions, the flavors really pop. Perfect with a frozen mojito!7. Liquid Nitro Chocolate Almond Truffle with Warm Whiskey Caramel – $4.50, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free

The Chocolate Studio Marketplace Booth

Looking for a dessert that’s ooey goey and totally unique? You have to get this dessert from the Chocolate Studio Marketplace Booth. It’s a showstopper, as it’s frozen in liquid nitrogen and served immediately. With such a unique presentation, you can see why this dish is a repeat offering from last year’s festival. There’s almost an ice cream-like texture to the truffle, and the warm whiskey caramel makes it a decadent and rich dessert. Order the booth’s featured sparkling wine for the perfect pairing.6. Roasted Verlasso salmon with quinoa salad and arugula chimichurri – $5.50, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Patagonia Marketplace Booth

It’s salmon and chimichurri. What’s not to love? The combination of flavors in this gluten free and dairy free dish at the Patagonia Marketplace Booth are outstanding. The salmon pairs perfectly with the quinoa, corn, and peppers, and the chimichurri really makes the dish. If you like bright, herby, clean flavors, you’ll be wowed by this salmon dish. It’s been a festival favorite for me for the past several years and a dish I get multiple times throughout the festival.5. Crispy Pork Belly with Black Beans, and Tomato – $5.50, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Brazil Marketplace Booth

People either seem to love or hate pork belly, but I’m totally of the mind that pork belly rules. This festival favorite has been at the Brazil Marketplace Booth for several years and continues to wow guests. Though people often report inconsistency on pork belly texture, I've had really good experiences. When it's perfectly crispy pork belly, the combination of flavors and textures between the pork, the black beans, and tomatoes are incredible. Get it with the Brazilian Cheese Bread, another gluten free festival favorite at this booth.4. Grilled beef skewer with chimichurri sauce and boniato purée – $5.75, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free

Patagonia Marketplace Booth

Like the salmon with chimichurri, you just can't go wrong with anything covered in this herby sauce. If you're more of a beef person, the grilled beef skewer at the Patagonia Marketplace Booth is the way to go. Tender and delicious and topped with Chimichurri and finished with a side of boniato puree, it's a meat and potatoes lover's dream. As Brandon put it, he could have eaten one or four of these servings -- it's that good!3. Red Wine Chocolate Truffle – $2.25, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Vegetarian

The Chocolate Studio Marketplace Booth

There's chocolate and then, there's Red Wine Chocolate Truffles, which take chocolate to a whole new level. The Chocolate Studio offers this red wine infused truffle, which is rich and decadent and pairs really well with a nice cabernet sauvignon, which is exactly how I enjoyed it when I got it. Some might find the red wine a bit overpowering, or the dish to be just boring, but I don't think you can go wrong with this classic pairing.2. Chilled Tomato Gazpacho with Lump Crab Meat – $4.50, DDP Snack Eligible – Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Greenhouse Guru Marketplace Booth

If you're visiting the Epcot Food & Wine Festival on a hot day, you simply have to get the tomato gazpacho with crab at the Greenhouse Guru Marketplace Booth. It's gluten free and dairy fee, but you'd swear there was dairy in it with all the rich flavors. The tomato flavor is present but not the only taste you get. The added crab on top absolutely makes this dish. Even better, it comes a booth that only serves items that are naturally gluten free!1. Duck Confit with Creamy Polenta and Fire-roasted Salsa – $5.25, DDP Snack Eligible –Gluten Free

GREENHOUSE GURU MARKETPLACE BOOTH

Hands down, the best dish I've had at the 2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival is the Duck Confit at the Greenhouse Guru Marketplace Booth. What a surprise this was! I'm not usually a duck fan, but I found this duck to be tender, mild flavored and rich. The combination of duck, creamy polenta, and fire roasted salsa was delicious. It's a dish that I definitely will get again and again this festival.What dishes are you looking forward to trying at the festival? Did I miss your favorite dish?

2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival Vegetarian and Vegan Offerings

With the 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival beginning September 14, 2016 and going through November 14, 2016, vegetarian and vegan diners have the chance to enjoy a variety of dishes for a full 2 months.Here is a listing of the current vegetarian and vegan menu items with prices and Disney Dining Plan Snack eligibility based on information from my personal visits to the Epcot Food & Wine Festival along with info from the Disney Food Blog and AllEars.net.Please note this is NOT the Gluten Free (and other special dietary needs) List. Please check the blog's Gluten Free Food & Wine Festival Offerings page for more info on those dishes.

Make sure to click on the individual pages for each booth to see food photos and find out more information.

*Note: Menus are subject to change, as is any information regarding ingredients, cross-contamination, and other special dietary needs ingredients. Always consult with the Disney culinary team for more information before consuming. Use caution when consuming any food from marketplace booths, as there is an increased risk of cross-contamination. Marketplace booths do not adhere to Disney’s traditional special dietary needs accommodations, particularly for allergies and/or celiac disease. Australia

• Lamington: Yellow Cake Dipped in Chocolate and Shredded Coconut – $3.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Belgium

• Belgian Waffle with Berry Compote and Whipped Cream – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Belgian Waffle with Warm Chocolate Ganache and Whipped Cream – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Brazil

• Pao de Queijo – Brazilian cheese bread - $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gluten Free)

The Chew Collective

• Ricotta and Zucchini Ravioli with Rustic Tomato Sauce – $4.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Chocolate Studio

• Red Wine Chocolate Truffle – $2.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gluten Free)
• Ghirardelli® Chocolate Raspberry Torte – $4.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Craft Beers

• Pimento Cheese Dip with Pretzel Crisps – $3.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Farm Fresh

• Pickled Beet Salad with Herbed Goat Cheese, Minus 8 Vinaigrette and Toasted Walnuts – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gluten Free)

France

• Crème Brûlée Caramel Chocolat: Caramel and Chocolate Crème Brûlée topped with Caramelized Sugar – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gltuen Free)

Germany

• Apple Strudel with Vanilla Sauce – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Greece

• Vegan Loaded Greek “Nachos”: Pita Chips, Meatless Sausage Crumbles, and Vegan Tzatziki – $4.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian, Vegan
• Oikos Greek Yogurt Vanilla Cake Soaked in Ouzo with Yogurt Whipped Cream and Pistachios – $3.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Spanakopita – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Greenhouse Guru hosted by Village Farms

• Heirloom Tomato Salad with Goat Cheese, Aged Balsamic Vinegar, and Micro-Basil – $4.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gluten Free)
• Mini San Marzano Tomatoes — a 5-ounce bag – $4.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian, Vegan (also Gluten Free)

Hops & Barley

• Freshly Baked Carrot Cake and Cream Cheese Icing – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Intermissions Cafe

• Caprese Salad: BelGioioso® Fresh Mozzarella Cheese & Tomatoes with Basil Pesto – $5.49, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Side Salad – $4.49, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Fruit and Cheese Plate – $6.69, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Grapes – $3.79, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Brownie – $2.99, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Key Lime Pie – $4.19, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Ireland

• Irish Cheese Selection Plate: Irish Cheddar, Dubliner and Irish Porter – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Warm Chocolate Pudding with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (also Gluten Free)

Islands of the Caribbean

• Quesito: Puff Pastry with Sweetened Cream Cheese and Guava Sauce – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Italy

• Cannoli al Cioccolato: Chocolate-covered Cannoli filled with Sweet Ricotta, Chocolate and Candied Fruit – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Japan

• Grilled Spicy Edamame tossed with Sesame Oil, Soy Sauce and Chili Powder – $4.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian, Vegan (*On the Go in MCO shared this information via Twitter)

Morocco

• Spicy Hummus Fries with Cucumber, Tomato, Onions and Tzatziki Sauce – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
• Chocolate Baklava: Rolled Phyllo Dough with Toasted Almonds and Dark Chocolate Sauce – $3.95, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

Refreshment Port

• Pineapple Dole Whip Soft-Serve Ice Cream – $4.19, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (*Note: Dole Whips are also gluten free, dairy free, vegan and free of the top 8 common allergens but is not listed as such on the passport)
• Croissant Doughnut with Cinnamon and Sugar – $4.99, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian 

Scotland

• The Tipsy Laird: Whiskey-soaked Cake with Lemon Cream and Toasted Oats – $3.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian

South Korea

• Vegan Korean BBQ with Steamed Rice and Cucumber Kimchi featuring Gardein™ Beefless Tips – $4.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian, Vegan

Wine and Dine Studio

• Trio of Artisan Cheese – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian
  • La Bonne Vie Goat Cheese served with toasted Craisin Bread
  • Karst Cave-aged Cheddar Cheese served with Fig Compote
  • Statesboro Blue Cheese served with Spiced Candied Walnuts

Stay tuned to sources like the Disney Food Blog and here on Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW for the latest 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival news!What are you most looking forward to this year at Food & Wine Festival?

2016 Epcot Food & Wine Festival Gluten Free Offerings

It's that time of year when Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival takes place. Held on September 14, 2016 through November 14, 2016, this year's Festival is even longer than it was last year.Here is a listing of the current gluten free menu items with prices and Disney Dining Plan Snack eligibility based on information from my personal visits to the Epcot Food & Wine Festival along with info from the Disney Food Blog and AllEars.net.

Make sure to click on the individual pages for each booth to see food photos and find out more information.

I've indicated known special dietary needs (at this time). This list will change as more information is gathered.*Note: Menus are subject to change, as is any information regarding ingredients, cross-contamination, and other special dietary needs ingredients. Always consult with the Disney culinary team for more information before consuming. Use caution when consuming any food from marketplace booths, as there is an increased risk of cross-contamination. Marketplace booths do not adhere to Disney's traditional special dietary needs accommodations, particularly for allergies and/or celiac disease. Africa

• Berbere-style beef tenderloin tips with onions, jalapeños, tomato, and pap – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten-Free

Australia

• Grilled sweet and spicy bush berry shrimp with pineapple, peppers, onions, and snap peas – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free
• Grilled lamb chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies – $7.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten-Free

Brazil

• Escondidinho de Carne “Little Hidden One”: Layered Meat Pie with Mash Yucca – $5.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free
• Crispy Pork Belly with Black Beans, and Tomato – $5.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free
• Pao de Queijo – Brazilian cheese bread – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Canada

• “Le Cellier” wild mushroom beef filet mignon with truffle butter sauce – $7.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free

The CHEW Collective

• Peanut Butter and White Chocolate Mousse with a Caramel Drizzle – $3.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Chocolate Studio

• Liquid Nitro Chocolate Almond Truffle with Warm Whiskey Caramel – $4.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free 
• Red Wine Chocolate Truffle – $2.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Farm Fresh

• Pickled Beet Salad with Herbed Goat Cheese, Minus 8 Vinaigrette and Toasted Walnuts – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

France 

• Creme Brulee Caramel Chocolat: Caramel and Chocolate Creme Brulee topped with Caramelized Sugar - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Greenhouse Guru hosted by Village Farms

• Duck Confit with Creamy Polenta and Fire-roasted Salsa – $5.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free
• Heirloom Tomato Salad with Goat Cheese, Aged Balsamic Vinegar, and Micro-Basil – $4.00, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Lactose Free (contains non-cow's milk cheese), Vegetarian
• Chilled Tomato Gazpacho with Lump Crab Meat – $4.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free
• Mini San Marzano Tomatoes — a 5-ounce bag – $4.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free, Vegetarian, Vegan

Ireland

• Warm chocolate pudding with Irish Cream Liqueur Custard – $3.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Vegetarian

Islands of the Caribbean

• Mojo Pork with Black Beans, Cilantro Rice, and Pickled Red Onions – $4.25, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Patagonia

• Grilled beef skewer with chimichurri sauce and boniato purée – $5.75, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free
• Roasted Verlasso salmon with quinoa salad and arugula chimichurri – $5.50, DDP Snack Eligible - Gluten Free, Dairy Free

Refreshment Port

• Pineapple Dole Whip Soft-Serve Ice Cream – $4.19, DDP Snack Eligible - Vegetarian (*Note: Dole Whips are also gluten free, dairy free, vegan and free of the top 8 common allergens but is not listed as such on the passport. Please consult with a Disney cast member to ensure this is safe for your special dietary need.)

Stay tuned to sources like the Disney Food Blog and here on Gluten Free & Dairy Free at WDW for the latest 2016 Epcot International Food & Wine Festival news!What are you most looking forward to this year at Food & Wine Festival?

Florida Fresh — 2016 Flower & Garden Festival Booth

*This dining experience took place in March 2016.Please note that the Flower & Garden Festival booths have increased risks of cross contamination.Florida Fresh has been an Epcot Flower & Garden Festival staple for several years now. Last year, it had two dishes I didn't try - the Watermelon Salad (I really dislike watermelon) and the shrimp and grits (which contained dairy).This year, they have two items on their menu that are marked gluten free:

• Kale salad with dried cherries, almonds, goat cheese and white balsamic vinaigrette –Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Lactose Free (confirmed lactose free and can be made dairy free by removing cheese by Sarah on March 2, 2016)
• Shrimp and stone ground grits with andouille sausage, sweet corn, tomatoes, and cilantro – Gluten Free 

Because I have been introducing some dairy into my diet, I've learned that I can tolerate goat cheese with no issues, and so I decided to get the Kale Salad. I was told that you can easily order the salad without the cheese to make it both dairy free and vegan too.Overall, I really liked this salad. I loved the dried cherries, the crunch of the sliced almonds and the kale. It wasn't overpowering or overly dressed, which was also nice. It was light and refreshing and even those who might not think they'd like it would probably enjoy it. This is a salad I'd definitely get again.I've heard a few people say that the shrimp and grits are also dairy free this year, which seems unlikely, but I will also be stopping by the booth soon to confirm whether or not it contains dairy.Read about the gluten free Epcot Flower & Garden Festival options on my main festival page, and you can also check out Gluten Free in Orlando’s festival page too.Looking for even more fun? Check out my YouTube video walkthroughs of the Festival!

• Walkthrough Video Part 1
• Walkthrough Video Part 2

Bauernmarkt: Farmer’s Market — 2016 Flower & Garden Festival Booth

*This dining experience took place in March 2016.Please note that the Flower & Garden Festival booths have increased risks of cross contamination.The Bauernmarkt is a new booth for this year's Flower & Garden Festival. They have one item on their menu that is marked gluten free:

• Currywurst with paprika chips – roasted bratwurst with curry ketchup and paprika-spiced chips – Gluten Free, Dairy Free (confirmed dairy free by Sarah on March 2, 2016)

Trying this dish, I will say that I was not a big fan of it. I love condiments, and I also love curry ketchup. But, I was not feeling this one. Plus, it was put on too heavily -- something I never thought I'd say as the condiment queen!I liked the bratwurst but found the ketchup to be overpowering (and I also adore curry). I also thought the paprika chips were overly seasoned.I think my biggest complaint was that the dish was overly sauced, overly seasoned and had too many big bold flavors competing with one another.Props for the super cute Epcot swizzle stick that accompanied the dish but overall, this was not a dish I'd get again. Still, I love that the booth had a gluten free and dairy free option.Read about the gluten free Epcot Flower & Garden Festival options on my main festival page, and you can also check out Gluten Free in Orlando’s festival page too.Looking for even more fun? Check out my YouTube video walkthroughs of the Festival!

• Walkthrough Video Part 1
• Walkthrough Video Part 2

La Isla Fresca — 2016 Flower & Garden Festival Booth

*This dining experience took place in March 2016.Please note that the Flower & Garden Festival booths have increased risks of cross contamination.La Isla Fresca is a new booth this year to the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival. They have one item on their menu that is marked gluten free:

• Jerk-spice grouper or chicken with mango salsa, chayote and green papaya slaw with lime-cilantro vinaigrette – Gluten Free, Dairy Free (confirmed dairy free by Sarah on March 2, 2016)

I was excited about this dish, as I love spicy food, and I love fish. I also liked that they offered the option of chicken or grouper. I've now tried both the chicken and grouper.I will say that the fish I've had here was a bit overcooked but overall really delicious. I loved the mango salsa and even really enjoyed the slaw. I found it to be light and refreshing! A great choice. It also wasn't overly spicy, so if you think it might be too spicy, you might be surprised to find it a bit mild.The chicken was also a good option and great for those that do not like fish. It was a bit on the tough side, but I liked that it was boneless chicken, which made it easier to cut and eat. Overall, I prefer the combination of grouper with the accompaniments, but both the chicken and fish are great options.This is definitely a dish I will get again at the festival!Read about the gluten free Epcot Flower & Garden Festival options on my main festival page, and you can also check out Gluten Free in Orlando’s festival page too.Looking for even more fun? Check out my YouTube video walkthroughs of the Festival!

• Walkthrough Video Part 1
• Walkthrough Video Part 2

Botanas Botanico -- 2015 Flower & Garden Festival Booth

*This review took place in March 2015. Please note that the Flower & Garden Festival booths have increased risks of cross contamination.New to this year's Epcot Flower & Garden Festival is the Botanas Botanico booth located in between the Morocco and France pavilions in the World Showcase. The flavors of the booth are inspired by South America and particularly highlight Venezuelan food.What I was most excited about for this booth was that all of the main food dishes were marked gluten free on the Marketplace Passports. The only exception to this was the dessert option at the booth. To me, this meant my cross contamination risks were greatly reduced given that almost all of the dishes did not contain gluten naturally. When I arrived at the booth, I asked a cast member if I could find out which of the dishes were dairy free, as well as gluten free. I knew the ceviche would be OK but wondered if the arepa featured on the menu was also dairy free. One of the chefs came out to talk to me, and he confirmed that the arepa was dairy free. He also noted that I could not have the Cachapa con Queso, even without the cheese, as the dough contained dairy. Here are the gluten free offerings at the booth (with notations of the dairy free ones):

• Seafood ceviche-shrimp, scallops, and grouper with mango and avocado – Gluten Free, Dairy Free (Confirmed by Sarah on March 7, 2015)
• Cachapa con queso – Gluten Free
• White corn arepa with braised beef and chayote slaw – Gluten Free, Dairy Free (Confirmed by Sarah on March 7, 2015)  

 This ceviche was probably my favorite of all the ceviches I've had at any of the Flower & Garden or Food & Wine Festivals at Epcot. Filled with bright flavors, the mango and avocado added a sweetness and richness to the dish. The seafood was all perfect -- there was no fishy taste whatsoever. The addition of a bright citrus flavor with jalapeño and onion rounded out the ceviche. In basic terms....this was yummy! I would definitely get this again.The arepa was also delicious, though I would have loved to see this filled with pork instead of beef. The arepa itself was tender and a little crispy on the outside. The slaw that accompanied it was good - though it isn't as delicious as the winter melon slaw that is served with the tilapia at the Urban Farm Eats booth. I would definitely get this dish again. Overall, I really enjoyed the Botanas Botanico booth. I loved the variety of dishes served and also how gluten free friendly everything was. I hope this becomes a repeat in festivals to come because this booth was a hit! For more Flower & Garden Festival info, check out my main festival page, as well as the reviews found on Gluten Free in Orlando’s website. Alexis visits the festivals regularly and offers terrific updates.

Flower & Garden Festival Announces Menus for Outdoor Kitchens

Last year Disney launched a marketplace area in the World Showcase (similar to the Food & Wine Festival) during the Flower & Garden Festival. Like the Food & Wine Festival, the marketplace booths didn't have many gluten free & dairy free friendly offerings. They did, however, carry one of my favorite gluten free beers -- New Planet's Raspberry Ale. Alas, New Planet won't be there this year but there are some vegan wines making an appearance at the booths, called the Outdoor Kitchens.Here is a list of the current offerings as released by Disney for the Outdoor Kitchens (*Note: At this time, no items have been confirmed gluten free or even special diets friendly. As always, these booths carry a higher risk of cross contamination)Stay tuned as I find out if any of these items will be suitable for special dietary needs. My guess is the Urban Farms Eats will be the most special diets friendly booth out of the bunch; hopefully, we can more information soon!Jardin de Fiestas (Mexico Pavilion) – this booth offers tapas that are spring light and cooked just right.

• Tacos al pastor – Corn tortilla filled with achiote-marinated pork, garnished with grilled diced pineapple, onions and cilantro
• Quesadilla de hongos con queso – Flour tortilla filled with mushrooms and cheese
• Flan de chocolate Abuelita – Mexican chocolate custard
• Tecate draft beer
• White Mexican sangria
• Franbuesa (raspberry) margarita on the rocks
• Tequila flight – blanco, reposado and añejo
• Dasani bottled water

Lotus House (China Pavilion) – try a garden-fresh take on spring-influenced flavors.

• Beijing-style candied strawberries
• Spring pancake with grilled chicken and green apple
• Vegetable spring rolls
• Popping bubble tea
• Kung Fu Punch – Vodka and triple sec with mango and orange juice
• South Sea Storm – Guava juice with light and dark rum
• Plum wine
• Tsing-Tao beer
• Lychee aerated water

Florida Fresh (Germany Pavilion) – Savor fresh Florida ingredients that are grown and produced locally

• Watermelon salad with pickled onions, BW Farm baby arugula, feta cheese and balsamic reduction
• Shrimp and stone ground grits with andouille sausage, sweet corn, tomatoes and cilantro
• Florida kumquat pie
• Watermelon passion fruit slush featuring Simply Lemonade®
• Hurricane Class 5 White Sangria featuring Simply Lemonade, Florida Orange Groves
• Garda Italian Wine Blend, Quantum Leap Winery
• Rogue Valley Pinot Noir, Quantum Leap Winery
• Blonde Ale, Orlando Brewing Company
• Cotton Mouth Belgian Style Witbier, Swamp Head Brewery
• Feast of Flowers Farmhouse Ale, Florida Beer Company
• Florida Avenue Blueberry, Cold Storage Craft Brewery
• Beer Flight – Blonde Ale, Cotton Mouth Belgian Style Witbier, Feast of Flowers Farmhouse Ale and Florida Avenue Blueberry
• Simply Orange

Primavera Kitchen (Italy Pavilion) - Sample some of this country’s many flavors.

• Caprese – Fior di latte mozzarella, roasted peppers and olio verde
• Three cheese manicotti – Egg pasta stuffed with ricotta, mozzarella, parmesan, tomato sauce and béchamel
• Torta di ricotta – Lemon cheesecake with limoncello-marinated strawberries
• Placido Pinot Grigio
• Placido Chianti
• Bosco del Merlo Prosecco
• White peach bellini – Prosecco and white peach puree
• Strawberry rossini – Prosecco and marinated strawberries
• Frozen Italian primavera – Assorted fruit slushy with limoncello and vodka
• Moretti Lager
• Moretti La Rossa

The Smokehouse: Barbecue and Brews (American Adventure Pavilion) – Celebrate the truly American tradition of barbeque, paired with craft brews from across the country.

• Pulled pig slider with cole slaw
• Smoked beef brisket with collard greens and jalapeño corn bread
• Smoked turkey “rib”
• “Piggylicous” bacon cupcake with maple frosting and pretzel crunch featuring Nueske’s Applewood Smoked Bacon
• Magic Hat #9, Magic Hat Brewing
• Maduro, Cigar City Brewing
• Fat Tire, New Belgium Brewing Company
• Billy’s Chilies, Twisted Pine Brewing Company
• Beer Flight – Magic Hat #9, Maduro, Fat Tire and Billy’s Chilies
• The Original Rib Shack Red Wine

Hanami (Japan Pavilion) – enjoying delicate bites and refreshing beverages.

• Frushi – Fresh pineapple, strawberries and melon, rolled with coconut rice, topped with raspberry sauce, sprinkled with toasted coconut and served with whipped cream on the side
• Temaki hand roll – Sliced Panko fried chicken, curry sauce, rice and pickled julienne carrots wrapped with Nori
• Hanami sushi – A flavorful combination of salmon, scallop and beef-topped rice balls served atop a shiso violet sauce
• Japanese puffed rice cakes with green tea whipped cream and azuki
• Kirin draft beer
• Pinepple Paradise with Yuzu Slushie – Frozen blend of sweet sake, pineapple juice and crème, flavored with a hint of Yuzu citrus juice
• Orange Mango Slushie – Frozen blend of Nigori sake, mango and orange juice

Taste of Marrakesh (Morocco Pavilion) – Discover the tastes on North African spices.

• Lamb brewat roll with prunes and sesame
• Harissa chicken kebab with couscous salad
• Baghrir – Moroccan pancake with honey, almonds and argan oil
• Mint iced tea
• White sangria
• Guerrouane red
• Casa Beer
• Desert Rose – Sparkling wine with pomegranate liqueur

Fleur de Lys (France Pavilion) – Indulge your senses in France’s most magnificent culinary masterpieces.

• Gnocchi Parisien à la Provençal – Parisian-style dumplings with vegetables and mushrooms
• Confit de canard, pommes de terre Sarladaise – Pulled duck confit with garlic and parsley potatoes
• Macaron à la fleur d’ Oranger – Orange blossom macaron with white chocolate ganache
• La Vie en Rose frozen slush – Vodka, Grey Goose Orange, St. Germain Liquor, and white and red cranberry juice
• Kir Imperial – Sparkling wine, Chambord and black raspberry liquor
• Rosé pamplemousse cocktail – Rosé wine mixed with natural grapefruit syrup
• Kronenbourg Blanc 1664 – Fruity white beer with citrus notes

Buttercup Cottage (United Kingdom Pavilion) – Delight in afternoon tea offerings and fresh garden flavors.

• Freshly baked potato and cheddar cheese biscuit with smoked salmon tartare
• Field greens with Plant City strawberries, toasted almonds and Farmstead stilton
• Pork and apple sausage roll with house-made piccalilli
• Freshly baked lemon scones with berry preserves and crème fraÎche
• Chilled rose blush lemonade featuring Simply Lemonade with Raspberry (nonalcoholic)
• Twinings® Cold Brewed English Classic with lemon grass syrup
• Berry tea cocktail – Twinings Cold Brewed Mixed Berry Tea with Florida Cane vodka and Plant City strawberry, flavored with raspberry and açaí syrup
• Iron Horse Fairy Tale Cuvee
• Deloach Pinot Noir

Pineapple Promenade (Canada Pavilion) – Enjoy all kinds of treats featuring juicy pineapples.

• Pineapple soft serve
• Pineapple soft serve with Myers’s dark rum
• Pineapple soft serve with Parrot Bay coconut rum
• Sweet potato cinnamon waffle with pineapple soft serve
• Frozen desert violet lemonade featuring Simply Lemonade (nonalcoholic)
• Tropical Mango Pale Ale, St. John Brewers
• Once Upon a Vine’s The Lost Slipper Sauvignon Blanc

Urban Farm Eats – Taste treats from this booth’s all natural menu, with dishes that have been cultivated entirely from the soil.

• Pickled beet salad with goat cheese cream, mizuna and pistachios
• Land-grown eggplant “scallop” with romesco sauce and spaghetti squash
• Ghost pepper-dusted tilapia with crisp winter melon slaw and mint oil featuring The Original Sauce Man’s Kick It Up Rub
• Cucumber lemon spa water, finished with a sprig of fresh mint
• The Vegan Vine Chardonnay
• The Vegan Vine Cabernet Sauvignon
• Redbridge Gluten-Free Sorghum Beer

Intermissions Cafe (Festival Center) – Pop inside to find all kinds of fine food and beverages.

• Grapes
• Fruit & cheese plate
• Vegan trio
• Southwest chicken wrap
• Tuna salad with pita
• Side salad
• Asian tuna salad with noodles
• Caprese Push-Pop – Tomato, mozzarella and balsamic
• Hurricane Class 5 White Sangria, Florida Orange Groves
• Garda Italian Wine Blend, Quantum Leap Winery
• Rogue Valley Pinot Noir, Quantum Leap Winery
• Martini Prosecco
• Strongbow Cider, Bulmers Cider Company
• SweetWater Blue, SweetWater Brewing Company

What are your thoughts on these offerings? Do you think there will be any items safe for special diets diners?