Disney has announced several updates coming to the Downtown Disney District at the Disneyland Resort in the future. The demolition of the space formerly occupied by the AMC movie theater, Earl of Sandwich, and more is nearly complete, and they have begun the transformation to “introduce more innovative shopping, dining and entertainment experiences.” The Disney Parks Blog said that they drew “inspiration from Southern California mid-century modern architecture, the west-end area will be a beautiful blend of vibrant color palettes, design elements and patterns influenced by the region, and will include an open lawn for relaxation and future events, and an even broader and diverse collection of dining and shopping.” From old fan favorites making returns, to a new restaurant, to new theming for current restaurants, there is plenty coming our way.
Din Tai Fung
A new restaurant, Din Tai Fung, will join the array of restaurant offerings in Downtown Disney to offer guests their soup dumplings which are handcrafted right on site! This family-run restaurant will bring flavorful Chinese cuisine to Downtown Disney, where guests can enjoy dishes served family style in a creative space near the forthcoming, new lawn pavilion area in Downtown Disney (this is the general area where the AMC theater used to be). Din Tai Fung was named one of the top ten gourmet restaurants in the world by The New York Times.
Paseo & Centrico to Replace Catal & Uva Bar
The Patina Restaurant Group which owns and operates Catal & Uva Bar is retheming and changing the entire menu for the restaurant spaces currently occupied by Catal & Uva Bar. The Disney Parks Blog shared “Michelin-starred Chef Carlos Gaytan will bring his inclusive vision of Mexican cuisine to Paseo and Centrico in the locations currently occupied by Catal & Uva Bar. The restaurant and central courtyard bar and dining area will offer guests a multi-sensory journey to the heart of Chef Gaytan’s homeland.”
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen Update
Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen will be receiving an updated look and an updated menu. Disney shared that they are working alongside Ralph Brennan’s “to finalize an evolution that incorporates vibrant California energy and a fresh approach to the menu, while staying true to the heart of New Orleans for this guest-favorite location.” More information is surely to come about this remodeling and updated menu.
Earl of Sandwich
The closure of Earl of Sandwich on the west end of the Downtown Disney District left a Holiday Turkey sized hole in the hearts of their fans. Disney has announced that Earl of Sandwich will be returning later this summer! “Earl of Sandwich will also pop into the district in a special sandwich walk-up location, offering guests the classics they know and love for a limited time beginning later this year.” When more information becomes available about this walk-up location, we will be sure to share that information with you.
Stay tuned for more information about the dining updates in Downtown Disney.