WDW Daily News

Guests can add a little extra pixie dust to this year’s Mother’s Day celebrations with a great mix of dining, shopping and entertainment at Disney Springs.

A memorable brunch is the perfect way to begin – topped off with delicious desserts and maybe champagne or a smart cocktail. Whatever Mom’s culinary taste, she’ll love one of these tasty options.

• Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante – If Mom thinks Italian food is delizioso, then reservations for the Mother’s Day brunch at this stunning new trattoria are a must! A special buffet will be served Sunday, May 13, from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., featuring gems like mascarpone French toast, poached hen egg and quinoa kale salad and hand-carved NY strip steak. The regular lunch menu will also be served. Reservations available at Maria & Enzo’s.com.
• Enzo’s Hideaway – To celebrate Mother’s Day, Enzo’s Hideaway will offer a Prix Fixe menu of Italian specialties including ahi tuna crudo, ricotta gnocchi, pasta frutti di mare and trio of homemade gelatos. The restaurant will also serve regular menu items. Mom will receive a complimentary glass of Prosecco when dining that day.
• House of Blues Restaurant & Bar – On May 13, 2018, guests can celebrate Mother’s Day at the world-famous Gospel Brunch – a soulful experience that includes an all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet and live entertainment. Guests can choose between the 10:30 a.m. or 1:00 p.m. seating based on availability.
• Paddlefish – Guests can take in the scenic views of Disney Springs aboard an iconic Mississippi riverboat. This on-the-water seafood restaurant will whip up a special dish only for Mother’s Day brunch – lobster ravioli with tarragon cream sauce. The regular Sunday brunch will also be available.
• Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant – There’s plenty of Celtic spirit during The Rollicking Raglan Brunch, May 12 and May 13, 2018, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The menu will include traditional Irish favorites, and live entertainment will be featured from noon to 4:00 p.m. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.
• STK Orlando – The ultra-modern steakhouse will feature a Mother’s Day weekend brunch buffet – served Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The buffet will include an omelet station, smoked salmon platter and an assortment of desserts including tres leches cakes, churros and cotton candy.

For reservations, call (407) WDW-DINE or (407) 939-3463, or visit DisneyWorld.com 

Sweet Treats

Chocolates, baked goods and wine are always in style for Mother’s Day. Here are some of the sweet ideas at Disney Springs:

• The Ganachery – Themed offerings include a glass of Rosa Regale paired with a gourmet ganache square or a Mother’s Day ganache lollipop.
• Frontera Cocina – Moms can stop by for a relaxing glass of wine (on the house!), beautiful flowers and an afternoon of smooth Spanish guitar. Perfect for a much needed R&R. (Complimentary glass of wine must be accompanied by full-priced entree. Limit one glass of wine per entrée).
• Sprinkles – The brand behind the most sought-after, gourmet cupcakes will offer a special Mom Box filled with the most popular cupcake flavors! This special box is only available from May 11 to May 13, 2018.

From Bangles to Bags

With great discounts, complimentary gifts with select purchases and unique gift sets designed with Mom in mind, ideas abound to score the perfect Mother’s Day gift.

• Alex and Ani – Mom-themed pieces and gift-sets will be available, including birth-month crystals and “initials” charms. Mom is sure to find something to make her feel extra special. (Only from April 18, 2018 to May 13, 2018.)
• Coach – From May 4 – May 13, 2018, the upscale boutique will offer 30% off during a special Mother’s Day event (with select exclusions).
• PANDORA Jewelry – Guests can shop for beautiful collections of rings, earrings, necklaces and signature charms or create their own at a mother-daughter bracelet-building station that is exclusive to this location. From May 1 to May 13, 2018, moms will receive a complimentary gift with purchase.
• Sugarboo & Co. – On May 12, 2018, the quirky boutique will offer a fun morning macramé class for mom, with coffee and shopping. Talk about the perfect combo!
• Amorette’s Patisserie – Exclusively on Mother’s Day, this artsy and sophisticated pastry shop will offer cute cakes themed after Disney mothers – Mrs. Potts, Moana’s grandmother, and Coco’s mother and grandmother. Sugar cookies and millennial pink macaroons with pink filling will also be on the menu.
• Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories – The ultimate destination for the latest fashion accessories and jewelry from Disney Parks has the perfect gift for mom – a PANDORA Jewelry mom charm! And on May 30, 2018, the one-stop styling location will release a special Pandora Spring charm.

The Celebration Continues Throughout Walt Disney World Resort

Guests looking to treat mom to different and unique experiences can chose from a wide range of options that go from the adventurous to the soothing.

• Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – Guests can enjoy a family stroll at the 25^th annual event bursting with brilliant gardens, fresh flavors and rocking entertainment. The festival offers many exclusive tours perfect for an afternoon with mom, such as the English Tea Garden Tour presented by Twinings of London. Mom can stroll through an English tea garden and learn about the importance of this classic beverage in British culture. These tours, along with others, can be booked by calling (407) WDW-TOUR.
• Senses – A Disney Spa – A relaxing spa experience at Senses – A Disney Spa is what mom (and why not the rest of the family?) needs to celebrate her special day. Guests can visit either Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa to find a therapeutic haven of pampering and wellness. Services include aromatherapy massages, water therapy, sugar exfoliation body treatments, rejuvenating citrus facials and more. To book a treatment at either spa, call (407) -WDW-SPAS.
• Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire by ILMxLAB and The VOID at Disney Springs – This highly immersive and interactive hyper-reality experience is the perfect activity to spend some family quality time exploring an out-of-this-world galaxy. Tickets and details are available at TheVoid.com

Wine Bar George is one of the most highly anticipated additions to the vibrant food and beverage scene at Disney Springs®. This 200-seat wine bar, scheduled to open soon, is centrally located at The Landing. The space is reminiscent of a winemaker’s home, complete with terrace seating that has sweeping views of Disney Springs and the waterfront stage.

Wine Bar George will offer more than 130 selections by the ounce, glass, and bottle in a range of varietals, vintages, and prices. Acclaimed wineries as well as up-and-coming growing regions and wineries will be featured along with small plates, artisan cheese and charcuterie boards, and sharable entrées designed to complement the wine list.

The biggest reason for all the excitement is George Miliotes himself – renowned wine expert, native Floridian, and Disney alum. A celebrity in the wine world, George is a Master Sommelier – one of only 249 in the world. In fact, Wine Bar George is the only wine bar in Florida owned by a Master Sommelier.

Here guests can choose from a variety of wines, including those listed as “Outstanding by the Ounce.” These exceptional wines are selected by George in partnership with the respective winery, and they  can be ordered by 1 oz, 3 oz, or 6 oz pours or by the bottle.

Plus, guests can enjoy a tasty menu developed by Executive Chef Ron Rupert. Menu items include:

• The Big Board – An impressive selection of six artisan cheeses and five crafted meats that serves two or more.
• Grilled Octopus with Lemon Vinaigrette – This light and refreshing salad has tender pieces of Spanish octopus (a result of grilling then chilling the octopus) with a touch of acidity from the lemon vinaigrette.
• Crispy Mac & Cheese Bites – These crispy cheesy bites are surprisingly light. Served with tomato nage and Pecorino, they are Ron’s imaginative take on a grilled cheese with tomato soup.
• Porchetta Spiced Pork Cheeks – Served with a creamy three-cheese polenta, these small bites of meaty goodness are cooked long and slow to perfection. The orange gremolata takes it over the top.
• Grilled Whole Greek Sea Bass – One of the “family-style plates” that serves two or more, this light and tender whole fish is served with cannelloni bean ragoût and seasonal vegetables.
• Olive Oil Cake – This moist cake with a rich olive oil flavor is served with candied olives and lemon mascarpone.

Stay tuned for more exciting details on Wine Bar George, including  the opening date!

Springtime in Florida means longer, sun-filled days followed by warm-breezy nights perfect for spending time outside. And with dynamic, late-night entertainment, fresh dining experiences and stylish new stores, Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort is the place to be … and be seen … this spring season.

Enjoy Late-Night Your Way

Every Thursday through Saturday after the clock strikes 10 p.m., Disney Springs comes alive with late-night offerings until 2 a.m., perfect for those wanting that extra zing for an adult fun-filled weekend.

The Landing neighborhood is the place where late night is taken to the next level with a collection of venues offering a variety of unique experiences, all within steps of each other. Guests can mix and match their options to design the perfect night, with choices that range from sophisticated to laid back; romantic candlelight to high-energy dancing; and the ability to hop to each venue (with complimentary parking and no cover charges).

Flapper-style dancers lead the way to the dance floor at The Edison. The lavish “Industrial Gothic” – themed restaurant offers hand-crafted cocktails and live entertainment. Follow the sake sangria to the sophisticated Forbidden Lounge at Morimoto Asia, where a separate entrance welcomes guests for a late-night menu and libations. Or witness the art of pouring the perfect pint at Raglan Road, singing is a must to keep up with the Irish spirit.

Other venues welcoming late-night explorers include Enzo’s Hideaway, Paradiso 37, The BOATHOUSE, STK Orlando, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar and Vivoli Il Gelato.

New Retail Locations

Fresh and fabulous trends will debut at Disney Springs with the May arrival of DisneyStyle. This Instagram-worthy location will have fans swooning over spirit jerseys galore and an endless supply of Disney Parks-inspired accessories.

DisneyStyle will join the lineup of other Disney-chic locations such as The Disney Corner. Open for a limited time, this retail location is a two-story Disney dream come true filled with apparel for kids – including infants – a fun mix of accessories and selfie-worthy backdrops.

Also in Town Center, Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories is now the ultimate spot for high-end fashion jewelry from Disney Parks. It offers an even larger selection of favorite brands and products including PANDORA Jewelry, Alex & Ani bracelets and charms, handbags by Dooney & Bourke, stylish headwear and more.

Delicious New Flavors Coming Soon

The highly-anticipated Wine Bar George will open its doors later this spring, bringing the expertise of Master Sommelier George Miliotes to Disney Springs. The wine list will feature more than 135 wines by the ounce, glass and bottle, and the menu will include small plates, cheese and charcuterie, and sharable entrees. The design of the two-story space will reflect the style of a winemaker’s home estate, with a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere. Guests will learn about food and wine pairing while enjoying stunning views of Disney Springs.

Also opening this spring is Terralina Crafted Italian. The new dining experience, curated by celebrity and James Beard Award-winning Chef Tony Mantuano, will transport guests to the splendor of the Italian countryside with cuisine combining authentic Italian flavors and an unparalleled ambiance.

Disney Springs is open every day of the year from 11:00 a.m. to midnight, with select restaurants, lounges and entertainment locations open late-night hours until 2:00 a.m. on select nights. To learn more about Disney Springs, visit DisneySprings.com or call (407) 939-6244.

This May, DisneyStyle, will join Disney Springs® West Side at Walt Disney World® Resort the destination for fresh and stylish apparel and accessories inspired by beloved attractions at Disney Parks and timeless Disney characters.

St. Patrick’s Day revelers may go for the perfect-pour Guinness when U2 tribute band Elevation launches into “With or Without You.”  Families with kids can opt for a fish-and-chips party as award-winning traditional Irish band The Maguires – new to Raglan Road Pub – tunes up their talent dubbed “insanely awesome” by Milwaukee Irish Fest.

And more award-winning bands are lined up for three non-stop days of live music, Irish dance, first-rate food and fun during the Mighty St. Patrick’s Festival 2018 at Raglan Road Irish Pub & Restaurant in Disney Springs March 16-18.  Here’s the complete lineup:

• Young Dubliners – One of Celtic rock’s hardest working bands, the Young Dubliners play hundreds of shows to thousands of fans across the United States and Europe every year. Young Dubliners are known for their hearty rock and Irish-infused live performances.
• Elevation (U2) — Back by popular demand, this stellar U2 tribute act will play two special nighttime shows March 16 and 17. They appeared at Raglan Road’s Great Irish Hooley last September during U2’s world tour celebrating 30 years of the groundbreaking Joshua Tree album.
• The Maguires – Called “brilliant” by IrishCentral news, The Maguires traditional Irish family band comprises Emma, 17, on fiddle, flute and whistle; Aoife, 15, on concertina and uilleann pipes; Sean, 12, on bodhrán; and their dad, Philip, on guitar. Trad favorites and modern tunes combine with syncopated, infectious rhythms sure to wow Mighty Festival crowds.
• Briste — This inspiring all-female trio includes Emma Robinson (flute, whistle), Joanna Boyle (banjo, vocals) and Alison Crossey (bodhran, guitar). They grew up listening to and playing traditional Irish music, winning numerous awards at County, Ulster and All Ireland competitions, quickly gaining themselves a fine reputation in traditional music circles. Blending together their rich musical backgrounds, Briste creates a fresh and exciting mix of country, folk and Irish traditional music.
• The Byrne Brothers — An exceptionally talented traditional Irish music family from Donegal. They are Luca, 13 (button accordion); Finn, 11 (banjo, mandolin and whistle); Dempsey, 8, (whistle and bodhran); and father,Tommy (guitar, Uilleann pipes, fiddle, whistles, bagpipes and bodhran). Their show combines exciting traditional Irish tunes with modern dance beats, and they love to interact with every audience.
• The Raglan Roots Coalition – This edgy house band is known for its soul-rockin’ Celtic bluegrass with hip-swingin’, knee-shakin’ funky roots beats.
• Reel Republic – Hailing from the southwest corner of Ireland, Aisling Egan-Sage (fiddle); Liam O’Keefe (box, vocals); and Colin Foley (guitar, vocals) are Reel Republic 2.0, three seriously talented musicians always pushing to make the next gig better than the last.
• Out the Gap – Niall McIlroy (guitar, ukulele bass, whistles and flute); Deirdre Ni Mheachair (fiddle); and Aidan Byrne (guitar, vox, keys and percussion) make up the pub’s newest house band performing a sweet combination of innate musicianship, beautiful tune playing and fairly outrageous virtuosity.
• The Raglan Road Irish Dancers – Plucked from the cast and stages of the world’s greatest Irish dance shows, the Raglan Road Irish Dancers perform throughout the Mighty Festival. You can even learn some traditional Irish dance steps – no experience necessary!

Guests can enjoy a mighty selection of beers, spirits and craft cocktails to pair with exceptional pub grub and more elegant Irish fare while musicians and dancers perform on multiple stages, indoors and out, from noon-1:30 a.m. March 16 and 10 a.m. until 1:30 a.m. March 17 and 18.  Mighty Festival guests can accent their Irish holiday attire with complimentary face painting available for up to nine or 10 hours each festival day.  On March 17, St. Patrick’s Day, guests will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis with a cover charge of $10 for each guest age 18 and older. Reservations can be booked for other festival days by calling 407/938-0300.

The entertainment schedule will be posted at raglanroad.com.

Guests can order from Raglan Road’s brunch, lunch, dinner and bar menus that include new dishes like the Guinness-braised pulled pork, apple chutney with pork crackling on a homemade bun, and the handmade gnocchi with seared Georges Bank scallops and crispy pork belly.  Traditionalists can dig into the pub’s loin of bacon and cabbage, the authentic Irish dish of St. Patrick’s Day, plus other pub classics.  Throughout the event, the restaurant’s Cooke’s of Dublin counter-service eatery will offer Irish favorites, as well, including fish and chips.

This February, take a fresh approach to celebrating Valentine’s Day, Galentine’s Day (Feb. 13) or any fun night out with friends by exploring what’s new at Disney Springs.

Recently recognized by The New York Times as one of the top places to go in 2018, Disney Springs is home to Central Florida’s hottest new restaurant and entertainment venues. It’s the place to set sail for romance aboard a stunning 40-foot Venetian water taxi or treat friends to a vintage amphicar ride. And it’s the destination for one-of-a-kind entertainment that ranges from a hyper-reality Star Wars experience and luxury bowling to an eclectic array of street performers and live entertainment.

Here are some memorable ways to surprise your Valentine, gal pals or best friends this month – or any other time of the year.

From Romantic to Electrifying Dining

In honor of Valentine’s Day, a number of restaurants at Disney Springs are offering special menu items. The list includes surf-and-turf for two at STK Orlando, fresh catch selections at Paddlefish, a delectable special menu at Paradiso 37 and a specialty cocktail at Morimoto Asia.

Friends and lovers can also check out some brand-new Disney Springs restaurants. Guests can share plates of spaghetti and other tasty Italian dishes at the new Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante. Following the Disney Springs story line, this chic restaurant is set in a once-abandoned airline terminal from the 1930s. The open and airy dining room features 50-foot ceilings and views of Lake Buena Vista. For a more casual experience, head below ground to Enzo’s Hideaway – a speakeasy located in storied rum-runner tunnels – that serves up Prohibition-era cocktails and hearty Roman dishes.

Next door, The Edison dials up the excitement with electrifying entertainment, craft cocktails and contemporary American fare. At night, this “industrial Gothic”-themed space transforms into a nightlife hot spot with weekends featuring live bands, cabaret dancers and aerialists. Visit TheEdisonFLA.com for more details.

These are just some of the options at Disney Springs, which is home to more than 50 food and beverage locations including five by James Beard Award-winning chefs. To book dining reservations, call 407-WDW-DINE or contact the restaurants directly.

More to See and Do Together

Shared time together is arguably the best gift of all. At Disney Springs the options for sharing time with friends or that special someone are off the charts.

Venture to The VOID and embark on the new hyper-reality, multi-sensory experience, Star Wars: Secrets of the Empire. In groups of four, teams suit up and go undercover as Stormtroopers to capture imperial intelligence vital to the budding rebellion’s survival. The experience is untethered and unbelievable. Tickets are available now at TheVOID.com.

At The BOATHOUSE, couples can set sail on The Venezia, a breathtaking Italian water taxi, for a romantic guided tour of Disney Springs complete with chocolate-covered strawberries and a champagne toast. There are also vintage amphicar rides – rare vehicles that travel both on land and in the water.

Other favorite hotspots for a fun night out include Splitsville Luxury Lanes, a modern upscale bowling alley, and AMC Fork & Screen Dine-in Theatres. Or, simply stroll the promenade and catch some of live performers and entertainment – more than 25 acts nightly.

Indulgent treats

Nothing says Valentine’s Day better than chocolate. Stop by The Ganachery and watch expert chocolatiers create richly exotic treats. Sample in store and take home an elegant, hand-packaged gift box for that special someone. Decadent hot-fudge sundaes – perfect for sharing – can be found at the world-famous Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop. There is also a gallery of goodies at Amorette’s Patisserie – a sophisticated pastry shop filled with Disney-inspired cakes, cookies, cheesecake, macarons and eclairs.

Step beyond everyday gift giving

It’s easy to get creative with gift giving at Disney Springs. For the guy who likes a little pampering there’s The Art of Shaving. This handsome shop features high-end grooming products for the modern man. Guys can even get a haircut and shave onsite in The Barber Shop.

Ladies will enjoy the fairytale ambiance of Ever After Jewelry Co. & Accessories, the ultimate destination for Disney-themed baubles, handbags and fashion. For elegant fine jewelry and designer watches, Luxury of Time by Diamonds International offers a wide selection in their upscale boutique.

Complimentary self-parking is available at all Disney Springs garages and surface lots. Walt Disney World Resort guests enjoy complimentary transportation between their Disney Resort hotels and Disney Springs.

Master Sommelier George Miliotes will bring his renowned wine expertise to Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort when his new venture, Wine Bar George, opens in spring 2018. Wine Bar George will be the only Master Sommelier-led wine bar in Florida.

Miliotes is widely regarded as one of the restaurant industry’s foremost wine experts with accolades and awards from national publications including Wine Spectator. Miliotes is no stranger to Walt Disney World Resort – he was part of the opening team of California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and managed the venue from 1995 to 2002. While there, he met and worked alongside Ron Rupert, who will serve as the Executive Chef for Wine Bar George.

“I’m thrilled that Ron is joining our team and I’m looking forward to working with him again,” Miliotes said. “Ron is incredibly creative, and his expertise will bring a menu that’s designed to complement the wine list. With our menu, guests will have the opportunity to explore endless food and wine pairings.”

Rupert began his culinary career at Walt Disney World Resort in 1988. He was part of the opening team of California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where he teamed with Miliotes and Chef Clifford Pleau. During his 14 years at Walt Disney World Resort, Rupert was also part of the opening teams at Jiko – The Cooking Place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and Ariel’s at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.  Rupert and Miliotes have worked closely to create a menu that will pair with a wine list of more than 100 selections by the bottle and glass.

“The menu will include a selection of small plates, sharable plates, cheese and charcuterie boards, and desserts. Offerings will feature seasonally relevant items and everything will be made in-house,” Rupert said. “I’ve worked jointly with George to develop a menu that represents both global and local cuisine. Guests can expect to experience food that is familiar, yet new all at once.”

When the two-story 210-seat wine bar opens, it will join a growing and remarkable group of dining, shopping and entertainment offerings at Disney Springs. The design for the 6,000-square-foot space will be similar to a winemaker’s home estate with a welcoming, comfortable atmosphere.

“Guests will experience a feel reminiscent of the ‘Old World’ as if they are on the bottom floor of a gravity-flow winery surrounded by their best friends,” explains Miliotes. “The upstairs floor includes seating for groups of all sizes, space for private events and sweeping views of Disney Springs.”

Future patrons can expect their experience to include wine education, which will be served up in an approachable and fun manner. Every part of the Wine Bar George experience, including special events and visits from renowned winemakers, will educate and enlighten guests about food and wine.

Wine Bar George is currently accepting applications for positions online. Interested applicants can visit winebargeorge.com/join-our-team/ for more information. Follow George @WineBarGeorge on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook and join the #WineBarGeorge conversation. Visit WineBarGeorge.com for news and updates.

Patina Restaurant Group (PRG) yesterday opened the doors for a media preview and soft opening that showcased the stunning new Italian restaurant located at the reimagined Disney Springs at Walt Disney World Resort — Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante.

The new dining destination brings to Disney Springs the warmth of Italy and the dreamiest Italian cuisine this side of the Atlantic, courtesy of Executive Chef Theo Schoenegger. The restaurant will officially begin serving dinner to the public on January 5. Lunch and brunch service will begin later this month (updated hours and special events available on the restaurant’s Facebook page).

Fittingly, the media sneak peek on January 4 coincided with National Spaghetti Day, providing the perfect Italian backdrop for the occasion. A dedication ceremony featured Italian ambassadors, chefs, executives from Patina Restaurant Group, Delaware North (Patina Restaurant Group’s parent company), Disney; and very special guests Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse.

Disney restaurants often have a backstory, part of the company’s tradition of immersive storytelling. Mirroring that tradition, Patina Restaurant Group collaborated with Walt Disney Imagineering to create the story for Maria & Enzo’s.

“The story behind Maria and Enzo is one of travel, food, love and friendship, all steeped in Italian tradition,” said Valenti, referring to the backstory of Maria and Enzo, an Italian couple that immigrated to Central Florida in the 1920s. “Their story is set in a long-forgotten sea-plane air terminal that became the setting for the restaurant.

“We couldn’t be happier to have a chef as talented as Theo Schoenegger,” Valenti continued. “A native Italian with an incredible repertoire, his cooking has a delicious authenticity that brings the story to life.”

Following the dedication, media and special guests enjoyed the food and hospitality at Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, where Chef Schoenegger presented a variety of signature dishes including, of course, spaghetti in honor of National Spaghetti Day.

Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante

An intimate Italian trattoria set in the once-abandoned Disney Springs airline terminal from the 1930s, now transformed into a restaurant. The dining room is open and airy, featuring 50-foot ceilings with views of Lake Buena Vista. The restaurant interiors showcase artifacts that recall air travel of the time, with brightly illustrated pictographs, reimagined air terminal boarding gates and a First Class Lounge where randomly selected guests are upgraded upon arrival. The menu, created by Michelin star-rated Chef Theo Schoenegger, features a variety of handmade pastas including Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with crab), Rigatoni all Norma (eggplant, chile, tomato, ricotta salata) and ‘Ncasciata al Forno(Sicilian baked pasta) – served tableside. Other highlights include Braciola di Maiale (Berkshire pork chop, plum mostarda), Nodino di Vitello (grilled veal chop) and Tonno (grilled ahi tuna steak, pistachio pesto) all served with rosemary potatoes and tempura fried vegetables. The spectacular wine list of more than 100 bottles is – lovingly — primarily Italian. The restaurant is open from 11:30 a.m. to 12 midnight daily, with weekend brunch coming soon.

The backstory is that the restaurant was the dream of Maria and Enzo who met in Italy before moving to Florida and wanted to introduce Italian cuisine to the townfolk of the bustling Disney Springs. An airline pilot, Enzo was drawn to an abandoned airline terminal, which became the spacious setting for the restaurant. 

Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar

A speakeasy inspired by Roman aperitivo bars, located in the storied rum-runner tunnels that adjoin Maria & Enzo’s. Inspired by Florida’s true history of rum running, Enzo’s Hideaway pours Prohibition-era cocktails and serves a casual menu of hearty Roman dishes, such as the city’s legendary Bucatini alla Carbonara (hollow spaghetti with creamy egg and pancetta sauce) and Tonnarelli Cacio e Pepe(square-cut spaghetti with pecorino and black pepper). In honor of the weekly dinners Enzo hosted for family and friends, the tunnel bar hosts Sunday Supper, a family-style meal each week. Enzo’s Hideaway Tunnel Bar is open from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. daily.

The backstory tells the tale of Enzo and Maria discovering a long-hidden cavern below the terminal that connected to abandoned sections of the next-door power plant (which today is called The Edison). To Enzo’s astonishment, he came across a Prohibition-era hideaway where a team of flying rum-runners once gathered. Evidence of smuggler activity was everywhere, untouched for decades. Bottles and casks of rum were found along with a roster of flying operatives and their code names. It was a fascinating glimpse at an unknown chapter of the town’s past. Enzo shared his discovery with the local historical society and also decided that the space might make an irresistible spot for dining and socializing. Now it is a cozy gem of a hideaway for Enzo to highlight the family recipes he grew up on, featuring specialties from Rome and nearby regions.

Pizza Ponte

A fast-casual concept and the perfect place for a quick bite serving pastries, pizza, Italian sandwiches, and espresso. Pastry specialties include Bomboloni (Italian doughnuts) Sfoglia di Riso (pastry with rice cream) and Tiramisu. Savory items include signature Triangolo (stuffed pizza bread) sandwiches, Porchetta (roast pork) and Pizza al Taglio, Sicilian-style pizza by the slice. Pizza Ponte is open from 8 a.m. to 12 midnight daily.

The backstory reveals that Maria began a simple cafe inside the lobby of what was once the bustling Disney Springs air terminal. Pastries and pasta were the initial offerings, but eventually the family was able to install wood-fired pizza ovens that helped make them even more successful. Pizza Ponte is accessed from the entrance beneath the air terminal’s old Control Tower. Within this entrance, guests can view family photos from Maria and Enzo’s many cousins, uncles, aunts and others who began to arrive as their business began to thrive. An elegant wraparound window anchors the space and catches a lot of attention from pedestrians crossing the bridge from the Disney Springs West Side. Offerings reflect many of the most popular foods from both Maria’s roots in Southern Italy and Enzo’s favorites from the region around Rome.

For more information on these Patina Restaurant Group restaurants, visit www.patinagroup.com or visit the restaurants on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter at @MariaAndEnzos, @EnzosHideaway and @PizzaPonteFla.

About Patina Restaurant Group

Patina Restaurant Group (www.patinagroup.com) is a bicoastal boutique company and leader in the premium segment of the restaurant industry.  In New York, its portfolio features Lincoln Ristorante, STATE Grill and Bar at the Empire State Building, Stella 34 Trattoria at Macy’s Herald Square, The Sea Grill at Rockefeller Center, Brasserie 8 ½, The Grand Tier Restaurant at the Metropolitan Opera, La Fonda del Sol at Grand Central, Yellow Magnolia Café at Brooklyn Botanic Garden and The Rink at Rockefeller Center. Other East Coast properties include Tutto Italia Ristorante and Via Napoli at the Epcot World Showcase in Lake Buena Vista, Fla, and Morimoto Asia Orlando at Disney Springs.

On the West Coast its portfolio includes the renowned Los Angeles Times’ four-starred and Michelin-starred Patina Restaurant in Walt Disney Concert Hall, Café Pinot, Ray’s & Stark Bar, Catal, Tortilla Jo’s, Catal and Naples in Anaheim’s Downtown Disney District, Leatherby’s Cafe Rouge, and catering and food service in museums and cultural centers throughout California.

Corks popped, performers dazzled, searchlights painted the skies and The Edison – the newest hot-spot at Disney Springs – rang in 2018 with a gala, grand opening party Sunday night.

The Edison, a lavish, “Industrial Gothic”- themed restaurant and entertainment venue, toasted the new year with an eye-filling spectacle of world-class entertainment, bountiful food stations, craft cocktails and an unforgettable fizzy Champagne toast for the countdown to midnight.

The showy soiree began with a Hollywood-style red carpet made from the train of a red ball gown. Hosts in flapper attire and inventors on stilts greeted special guests amid the dazzling step and repeat photo ops reminiscent of a Tinseltown premiere. Inside, a live band, cabaret dancers, aerialists, variety acts and a DJ created an otherworldly scene and grand celebration as guests welcomed in 2018.

The ticketed grand opening party was the glittery lift-off for The Edison. By day, the new venue will be a playful dining experience for families, while at night, the space transforms into a destination focused on craft cocktails, contemporary American fare and entertainment unique to Central Florida, all within an eye-popping, waterfront setting.

The Edison creates a completely unique combination of style, art and design with great food, cocktails and world-class entertainment.  A fully immersive experience, The Edison features multiple themed areas to explore, such as the Lab performance space, The Ember Parlour, Telegraph Lounge, The Patent Office, The Tesla Lounge, The Radio Room, and the Waterfront Patio.

“The lights are officially on at The Edison and we’re delighted that guests can now experience the extraordinary entertainment, craft cocktails and cuisine unlike anything else in Central Florida,” said Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group. “The reimagined power plant celebrates an era of invention and imagination in a new and distinct way.”

Open for lunch and dinner, The Edison treats guests to menu creations of Chef PJ Finneran that consist of contemporary American fare such as Pork Belly Pops (chile-brown sugar glaze), Crispy Fried Chicken (cast iron buttermilk biscuits), and a signature The Edison Burger, (a juicy combination of house-ground sirloin, short rib and brisket, topped with Cabot cloth-bound cheddar, onion rings, smoked bacon, house pickles, lettuce, tomato, special sauce and served with hand-cut fries). The Edison will soon introduce Bartender’s Midnight Breakfast, a late-night menu that will include traditional breakfast fare at night and offer guests a perfect way to keep the party going as the evening is winding down.

The Edison’s beverage lineup focuses on artfully crafted cocktails, interesting beers and wines, and house-made punches that serve from two to 10 guests. The Edison Signature Series includes cocktails such as The Wonderlust (Pernod Absinthe, Nolet’s Gin, Crème de Violette, pineapple syrup, lemon), Lady Marmalade (Corsair Absinthe, Hangar One, Noilly Prat vermouth, Giffard Ginger, verjus, pomegranate), The Crimson Vesper (Absolut Elyx, Lilet Rouge, Plymouth Sloe Gin, orange) and The Edison (Woodford Reserve, Belle de Brillet Pear Liqueur, lemon).

The center of the restaurant is stage for a dance floor and performance stage, where an eclectic lineup of live entertainers including musicians, aerialists and dancers fire up the night.

The Edison is now open Sunday-Wednesday from 11:30 a.m. to 1 a.m. and Thursday-Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m. Guests at The Edison must be 21 years or older starting at 10 p.m. Thursday-Saturday nights. There is a cover charge of $15 per guest beginning at 10 p.m. Additionally, The Edison has an enforced dress code Thursday-Saturday evenings beginning at 10 p.m. Men must wear slacks, jeans or dress shorts. No ball caps, sleeveless shirts or flip-flops are permitted. Jackets are optional.

This destination restaurant will host a variety of unique events, chef-driven dinners and promotions throughout 2018. The restaurant offers savings for Disney Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, Tables in Wonderland cardholders and Disney Cast Members. For more information on The Edison, visit TheEdisonFLA.com.