Disney for Foodies: 5 New Dining Options |Cooking With Amanda

Welcome back to day two of our summer culinary travel series! Yesterday we were in the wine country of California, and now we are going to hop all the way across the country to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida.

Of course, Disney World will always be an iconic location for family travel, but it is also quickly becoming a food-lovers travel destination as well. I recently went back to Walt Disney World and explored five of their new dining options. Make sure to add one or all of these to your next itinerary!

1) Spice Road Table at Epcot

This is a brand new dining option at the Morocco pavilion inside Epcot. The menu is Mediterranean small plates with a waterfront view that is second to none.

Tip: Arrive around 7 or 7:30 for a leisurely meal. Order a pitcher of the sparkling sangria to share and then linger at your table until the Epcot IllumiNations fireworks show. You will have a front row seat to the spectacular display while sipping a fantastic evening cocktail!

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2) Epcot After Hours Wind Down

If you are like me, it's hard to leave Epcot when the park closes at 9 pm. It feels like the party is just starting! Luckily, Epcot has recently introduced exclusive "Wind Down" lounges after the park closes.

I checked out my favorite place, La Cava del Tequila, for a tequila tasting. The bar was packed with guests eager to learn about the various kinds of tequila as well as the proper way to sip and enjoy this complex spirit.

Tip: Arrive early for a great seat! This one fills up quickly. Also, sip slowly…there's a lot to enjoy here at La Cava del Tequila and you want to remember everything you learned the next morning!

3) The newly renovated California Grill at The Contemporary Resort

This upscale restaurant is an elegant respite high above the parks on the 15th floor of the Contemporary Resort. The Pacific coast cuisine by Chef Brian Piasecki is fresh and fabulous. I loved the variety of sushi and rolls paired with sparkling sake – perfection! After dark you can venture out to the open air balcony for a view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks display.

Tip: The wine list is impressive. If you aren't sure what to pair with your meal, simply ask for a recommendation from sommelier, Michael Scheifler, he is certain to guide you in just the direction.

4) Be Our Guest at Magic Kingdom

The menu options include family-friendly versions of traditional French fare, and their computerized system is set up to accommodate any dietary restrictions and allergies. You can even choose from three different elaborately themed dining rooms to fit your mood.

Tip: Arrange dinner reservations at Be Our Guest if you want to dine at the only restaurant inside the Magic Kingdom serving wine and beer!

5) Harambe Nights at Animal Kingdom

Harambe Nights is a street party, dining experience and theatrical event all rolled up into one unforgettable night at Disney's Animal Kingdom. This summer celebration is a feast for the senses. Music fills the air as you graze an all-inclusive all you can eat and drink spectacular. I loved the African wine and beer options as well as the spice and sizzle of the fantastic global cuisine.

Tip: There are food and drinks both before and after the Lion King show. Don't fill up too much on those pre-show appetizers – you won't believe the gastronomic delights that await you after the show!

Are you convinced that a foodie trip to Disney World should be on your radar this summer? As you plan your getaway, tickle your tastebuds with this recipe from the Harambe Nights menu. See you real soon!