We've spent some time in the past talking about Amy's favorite things, and we've even spent some time talking about Chad's favorite things, or Mark's favorite things, but every so often something comes along that we can all get on behind, prompting a big "Favorite Things!" from all of us. Such is the case with this little Park classic on the tips of so many people's tongues (literally and figuratively), the Mint Julep in New Orleans Square.
Typically, people fall into one of two categories when they think of the Mint Juleps at The Park:
- The "They taste like glorified mouthwash" camp and
- The "They're the best!" camp
So, other than Amy (because she's an old hat and they're relatively new to Chad and Mark), we weren't really sure whether we initially wanted to try the little concoction or not. But having done so we can proudly say, "They're the best!", with all the enthusiasm we can muster.
So first things first. What exactly is the Mint Julep in should you so desire one? The Park describes it as "A refreshing mint drink with a hint of lime flavor", which is actually what made us hesitant to try one in the first place, and is surely why many people fall into the "glorified mouthwash" camp. We figured the mint would more than overpower the lime in the drink, and thus be exactly like drinking mouthwash. But after having had several of our own, we tend to think it's more of "A refreshing lime drink with a hint of mint flavor". In all of the ones we've had, we've never felt the mint was too overpowering; it's always been light and refreshing, which is just what we're looking for. That said, we know it's probably still not for everyone (different people have different tastes and buds), but if you're on the fence because of the mint, we have to encourage to try it for yourself and see what you think. It just may surprise you like it did us! Our friend Amanda at Disney Go To Girl described the Julep in one of her articles as a "mint-flavored lemonade", and we think that's pretty close to the mark, too.
And you can see exactly how it's served up, complete with a lime, lemon, a few mint leaves, lots of ice, and a cherry on top! Just hits the spot perfectly on a hot day in July in The Park.
Now that you know what the Mint Julep is, we suppose you'd be wondering where exactly to go to get one. Luckily for you, we know the answer! One place you can find it should you get a hankering for one is Cafe Orleans in New Orleans Square. If you're going to be eating at that restaurant, it will definitely compliment your meal and with free refills, you can't go wrong. That said, our favorite place to grab one is at the Mint Julep Bar itself, also in New Orleans Square. It's located right next to the dining patio for the French Market restaurant. In fact, if you are taking the Disneyland Railroad from Main Street USA to New Orleans Square, you'll most likely see the bar as soon as you de-board. It's practically right in front of you across from The Haunted Mansion. The drink itself will run you only $2.99 (a steal!) and is well worth the money we think. Sometimes you pay an amount for a drink and feel ripped off a bit, but we've never felt that in this case, and we'll usually order one and either park ourselves at some nearby tables, or wander off into Critter Country, happily sipping away.
Really wanna go nuts? Feel free to polish it off with an order of Mickey-shaped beignets too and feel those sugar energies soar! A 3-pack with run you $3.99 and a 6-pack will run you $6.99. But who doesn't love little fried Mickey heads with confectioner's sugar on top?
And there you have the Julep! Again, we know that a lot of people probably don't or wouldn't like these little beauties, but if you've never tried one, they come with our highest recommendations and are firmly at the top of the list where it comes to our favorite "In-Park" treats. Try one for yourself and see if you like it!
What say you? Have you tried the Julep yourself? Let us know what you think! And if you've never tried one, and you plan to, come on back and let us know if you liked it. We'd love to hear from you!
4 comments:
The last time I had a mint julep in the park I might have been 13 or 14. I visited the parks with a friend and a few of her family members. When I was that age I was pretty finicky so I have to admit I've been in the "mouthwash" camp since. There are many flavors I have had to revisit since I was that age (hard to believe but there was a time where I didn't need a dole whip fix!) so I know I need to give this Disney gem another go. Your description makes it sound like a mojito minus the rum (its served so close to Pirates that it sounds like a disservice to Captain Jack without the rum. lol.). I really like hearing about your favs. Thanks for sharing! :)
Give it another whirl, Brittany. Let us know what you think! Thanks for the encouragement and reading all the same! :)
Having recently fallen in love with the mojito mocktail on one of my many trips this summer, I must try the mint julep on my next trip to Disneyland. Your description makes it sound fantastic! I've always seen it on the menu at Cafe Orleans and Blue Bayou but have never been brave enough to try it. As long as it's nothing like that new Starbucks Cool Lime drink (ick), I'm sure I'll love it.
Let us know if you brave it the next time you're here and if you try it, Robin :)
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