Hot Fudge Sundae — Ghirardelli Soda Shop

Image: Dakota Gardner

While Disney Springs is always a fun stop, going to the shopping and entertainment district after a day at the parks adds an energy to the experience that can make it seem even more fun. It’s a different kind of stimulation from the theme parks, one more familiar and normal. But, it still is fun and merry — and far more than a simple night out at a mall.

One reason for this is the massive selection of sweets on offer — most famously the Ghirardelli Soda Shop right in the heart of the Village section of the Springs. Even when it has a long line, the waits are never too long, and the ice cream tastes just like you remember ice cream tasting when you were a kid.

But, what makes Ghirardelli famous, of course, is the chocolate — and nothing is a more purified form of chocolate bliss than the incredible hot fudge used in the specialty sundaes. You can’t go wrong with any combination of ice creams, fudge, toppings, and mix ins — but definitely take a moment and pause while you eat the fudge, to appreciate just how great it tastes. After a day in the parks, it tastes even better.

Mickey Mousse - Amorette’s Patisserie

Image: Dakota Gardner

Let’s get this out of the way right up front: Yes, this particular pastry has the greatest name of any item on Walt Disney World property. And, importantly, it lives up to its name by being a decadent celebration of delicate cake, sweet mousse, and rich chocolate.

Amorette’s Patisserie is a relative newcomer to Walt Disney World, but it packs an absolute wallop by delivering astonishing cakes and impeccably crafted sweets. Each cake has its own theme, from a Mickey Bar-inspired offering to a Goofy cake. The full cakes are quite expensive, and meant mostly for special occasions, but the shop does offer smaller cakes and individual treats, like the Mickey Mousse.

It is a gorgeous combination of chocolate chiffon cake, chocolate mousse, and white chocolate mousse. It isn’t overly sweet, but it does have enough of a silky sweetness to it that it tastes almost like an elevated chocolate pudding. It’s amazing, and its name and shape make it the perfect cap to a magical day.