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People know Disney Springs for its exciting entertainment and dining options. They recently opened Summer House on the Lake, which is another jewel in their collection. In addition to offering a laid-back dining experience, this relaxed, beach-themed restaurant also offers a special treat for cookie and dessert lovers: The Cookie Bar.
Families, couples, and lone travelers alike are quickly making this location a must-visit. The reason is its assortment of freshly made cookies. I recently went here with a friend to try one of their cookies for the first time. We sat down on their patio to have a chat and relax. We ended up sitting there for about an hour, eating our cookies and drinking our iced coffee! You really feel you’re near the beach or water on vacation. The Cookie Bar at Summer House on the Lake is truly exceptional. Its delicious menu and summertime lake-inspired design make it one of a kind.
What is Summer House?
Located in the heart of Disney Springs, Summer House on the Lake brings a refreshing slice of summer fun all year round. The restaurant’s decor seems to be inspired by a classic beach house, with light, airy interiors, lush green plants, and panoramic views of the lake. The ambiance feels laid-back yet sophisticated, offering a welcoming environment for every guest. Summer House on the Lake captures the essence of a seaside retreat right in the middle of Disney Springs. The restaurant’s architecture features open spaces with extensive use of natural materials like wood and stone, creating a relaxing environment that echoes the serenity of the lakeside. Large, open windows ensure that every seat in the house offers a view of the water, reinforcing the connection to its name.
Apart from the Cookie Bar, the restaurant boasts a diverse menu for brunch, lunch, and dinner. From artisan pizzas and gourmet sandwiches to fresh salads and seafood dishes, there’s something to satisfy every palate. The emphasis on fresh, high-quality ingredients elevates the dining experience, making Summer House a culinary highlight of Disney Springs. I personally did not eat there, but hopefully one day I will try it! I did try something else, though, The Cookie Bar! Let me share my experience with you.
The Cookie Bar
The Cookie Bar is truly the star of Summer House on the Lake. As you approach the bar once you enter the restaurant, the smell of freshly baked cookies fills the air, drawing you closer with each step. The bar showcases a variety of cookies, each displayed enticingly under glass domes.
Here are some varieties you must try:
- Cinnamon Roll: This is the one I personally tried myself which is covered in glaze. If you love anything cinnamon, this one’s for you!
- Classic Chocolate Chip: The perfect balance of gooey and crispy, packed with rich, big chunks of chocolate.
- Chocolate Walnut: Packed with big chunks of both chocolate and walnuts.
- Crispy Rice Chocolate Chip: This has mini rice crispies on top of it.
- M&M: If you already love eating M&Ms, this one will be perfect for you!
- Fudge Bomb: This one is completely covered in fudge.
- Sea Salt Chocolate Chip: A delightful combination of sweet and salty with a chewy texture. (My very close friend loves this one!)
- Double Chocolate Cloud: Double chocolate topped with powdered white sugar.
- Ginger Snap: If you love gingerbread, you’ll love this!
- Lemon: A refreshing choice with a tangy lemon flavor for lemon lovers.
- Peanut Butter Crunch: Ideal for peanut butter lovers.
What does The Cookie Bar offer?
The cookies are made using traditional recipes that have been perfected over time, with a few unique creations that reflect the creative flavors at Summer House. The Cookie Bar also offers seasonal varieties that make use of local, seasonal ingredients, adding an element of surprise with every visit. Not only do they have cookies, but also brownies, rice crispy treats, drinks, and more with gluten-free options available! Pairing a cookie with an iced coffee is a perfect match. Just so you know, the cookies are really big, almost the size of a hand, but they are soft-baked. I have yet to try the other cookie flavors since I only tried one so far. As of now, there’s no option to order ahead, but there will be in the future!
Visitors to the Cookie Bar rave about their experiences. From families with children who delight in watching their cookies being baked, to couples enjoying a sweet treat after a romantic dinner, the reviews are overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms are bustling with photos of the Cookie Bar’s offerings, often tagged with #SummerHouseCookies, showcasing the joy and satisfaction of guests.
Why try the cookie bar?
The Cookie Bar at Summer House on the Lake adds a unique food experience to Disney Springs. While there are numerous dessert options available throughout the area such as Gideon’s Bakehouse, the Cookie Bar stands out because of its focus on high-quality, artisanal cookies. It complements other dining experiences at Disney Springs by offering a quick yet delightful dessert option that appeals to all age groups. You won’t be disappointed!
What you should know
- Location: On the West Side right across from Salt & Straw Ice Cream, near AMC Theatres and Splitsville. The Orange Parking Garage would be the closest place to park.
- Best Times to Visit: Mid-afternoon or early evening on weekdays to avoid crowds.
- Price Range: The pricing of cookies is reasonable, with prices generally ranging from $4.95 to $5.45 each.
- Allergy-Friendly Options: The Cookie Bar offers gluten-free and nut-free options, ensuring that everyone can enjoy their treats without concern.
Final Thoughts
The Cookie Bar at Summer House is not just about food, it’s an experience. With its delightful array of cookies and charming atmosphere, it’s a testament to the innovative dining experiences that Disney Springs offers. Whether you live here or are just visiting, be sure to come by and enjoy the taste of summer, regardless of the time of year. I’m certain I’ll be going back there again!
Hello everyone! My name is Kimberly, and I was born in Florida. Although I have travelled to a lot of other places outside of Florida and the country, this is the place I still call home. A fun fact about me is that I was a performer at both Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort for a total of 8 years.
