If you've followed along on any Upon A Star adventures or social media accounts, you probably know that Disney Springs is a rapidly changing and rapidly growing place! In fact, it was recently listed in a travel blog as one of the top 20 places to visit -- and I couldn't agree more!

On our recent trip in January, Brady & I ventured with our friends down to Disney Springs several times - after all, a foodie's gotta eat!

Maria and Enzo's is one of the newest eateries. It's themed - stick with me here - like an airport! The back story is that Maria and Enzo had a small bakery in the airport, but when it closed, they converted the whole thing into a dream restaurant (with the help of the owner of the Edison next door - but that's another blog post!).

As you might imagine, this restaurant serves Italian food. The views are fantastic -- overlooking the water -- and the food I had was wonderful. I loved the whole look and feel. There were travel & aviation posters lining the walls, and the room had an open and airy feel.

In addition to the main seating area, there is also a "First Class Lounge". There are no outside views, but it does have tablecloths! Due to the diners, i couldn't snag a picture of those tables.

But let's talk about the real star here - the FOOD. I love Italian food! And I really enjoyed everything! The menu is somewhat limited, but very good. The first picture was our appetizer, the Arancini di Carne (fried rice stuffed with meat ragù, peas and mozzerella). For my entree, I had the Busiate con Granchio (spiral pasta with lump crab meat) -- it tasted fresh and was so delicious! Brady had the Rigatoni, and our friends had the Spaghetti. Desserts were the Cannoli and the Sicilian Ricotta layered sponge cake.

All four of us were impressed with our food - and with our server! Martina was amazing - be sure to request her table when you go!

In terms of pricing, you are definitely going to pay over $20 per entree. Disney Dining Plans are not yet accepted; but for me, I don't mind paying for a great meal every now and again.

Want to try it for yourself? Let your Upon A Star agent know that Maria and Enzo's is a must on your next trip -- we will set it all up for you.

Buon Apetito!

Trattoria al Forno at Disney’s Boardwalk

This is a brand-new character meal featuring Disney Couples! This new breakfast will feature couples from Tangled and other films like The Little Mermaid. Looks like this will be the first-time Rapunzel will have be at a character meal.

While enjoying enjoy breakfast, guests will be encouraged to “share the tales of their own hopes and dreams” or maybe tell a tale of a great adventure.

Trattria al Forno has a great location. The Boardwalk is within walking distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios so it’s a great place to start your park day.

While the official menu has not been released here’s hoping their waffle with espresso-mascarpone cheese remains. It’s excellent!

This exciting new Character Breakfast is set to open this spring. Advanced Dining Reservations are recommended.

Hollywood and Vine at Hollywood Studios

Minnie’s Seasonal Dine has been a enjoyable dinner experience with Minnie, Mickey, Donald and Goofy for a little over a year now. Soon there will be more chances to join Minnie and Friends for some festive fun. This spring Minnie’s seasonal Dine will be offered for lunch!

Minnie Mouse arrives for lunch starting May 14, 2017. Advance dining reservations are recommended.

Paddlefish at Disney Springs

Adding to the new food line up is Paddlefish, the multi-million-dollar transformation of Fulton’s Crab House in Disney Springs. The iconic paddleboat has been reimagined into a modern yacht experience.

The seafood-centric menu features Maine lobster, King and snow crab and a selection of fresh fish picked daily. Some favorites from Fulton’s are still on the menu like the lobster corn dogs. An expansive wine list as well as classic turn-of-the-century cocktails as to the ambience of the restaurant.

Paddlefish is now open. Advance Dining Reservations are recommended.

Planet Hollywood Observatory at Disney Springs

Planet Hollywood has re-opened its doors in Disney Springs. The overhaul of the interior and exterior took more than a year. The new observatory houses the new Planet Hollywood Restaurant and shop along with the new Stargazers Bar.

The menu features burgers and other items created especially for the Planet Hollywood Observatory by The Food Network’s Guy Fieri. For guests that speak in Guyism’s you’ll recognize LTOP, SMC and Donkey Sauce on the menu. The Stargazers Bar will showcase local Florida Craft Beers.

Planet Hollywood Observatory is now open. Advanced Dining Reservations are recommended.

These new dining experience are an exciting addition to the food choices at Walt Disney World. Contact your Upon A Star Agent for more details.