Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. With a wide range of restaurants to choose from, visitors often wonder which ones are owned and operated by Disney itself. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs, exploring their unique offerings, menus, and experiences.
A Brief History of Disney Springs
Before we dive into the Disney-owned restaurants, let’s take a brief look at the history of Disney Springs. The area was first opened in 1975 as Lake Buena Vista Shopping Village, with a small collection of shops and restaurants. Over the years, it underwent several transformations, including a major expansion in the 1990s that introduced new dining and entertainment options. In 2015, the area was rebranded as Disney Springs, with a focus on creating a more immersive and engaging experience for visitors.
Disney-Owned Restaurants in Disney Springs
While many restaurants in Disney Springs are operated by third-party companies, there are several that are owned and operated by Disney itself. Here are some of the Disney-owned restaurants you can find in the area:
The Boathouse
Located in The Landing area of Disney Springs, The Boathouse is a waterfront restaurant that serves up seafood, steak, and pasta dishes. While it’s not entirely owned by Disney (it’s a partnership with the Gibsons Restaurant Group), Disney does have a significant stake in the restaurant. The Boathouse is known for its upscale atmosphere and unique dining experiences, including the ability to dine in a replica of a classic Amphicar.
The Polite Pig
The Polite Pig is a modern barbecue restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. This Disney-owned restaurant offers a wide range of barbecue favorites, including ribs, brisket, and chicken. The Polite Pig also features a unique cocktail bar and a outdoor seating area with live music.
D-Luxe Burger
D-Luxe Burger is a Disney-owned quick-service restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. This burger joint serves up high-quality burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as unique milkshakes and floats. D-Luxe Burger is known for its upscale atmosphere and creative menu offerings.
Chicken Guy!
Chicken Guy! is a Disney-owned quick-service restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. This restaurant, created by celebrity chef Guy Fieri, serves up a wide range of chicken tenders, sandwiches, and salads. Chicken Guy! is known for its creative menu offerings and affordable prices.
Aristocrepes
Aristocrepes is a Disney-owned quick-service restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. This restaurant serves up a wide range of crepes, both sweet and savory, as well as coffee and other beverages. Aristocrepes is a great option for a quick and delicious breakfast or snack.
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew is a Disney-owned quick-service restaurant located in the West Side area of Disney Springs. This restaurant serves up a wide range of creative donuts, as well as cold brew coffee and other beverages. Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew is a great option for a sweet treat or a quick breakfast.
Other Disney-Owned Dining Experiences in Disney Springs
In addition to the restaurants listed above, there are several other Disney-owned dining experiences in Disney Springs. These include:
Disney’s Candy Cauldron
Disney’s Candy Cauldron is a Disney-owned candy shop located in the West Side area of Disney Springs. This shop offers a wide range of candies, chocolates, and other sweet treats. Visitors can also watch as candy makers create handmade treats.
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop
Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop is a Disney-owned chocolate shop located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs. This shop offers a wide range of chocolates, ice cream, and other sweet treats. Visitors can also enjoy a classic milkshake or sundae.
Haagen-Dazs
Haagen-Dazs is a Disney-owned ice cream shop located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs. This shop offers a wide range of ice cream flavors, as well as sundaes, milkshakes, and other frozen treats.
Conclusion
Disney Springs offers a wide range of dining options, from quick-service restaurants to upscale eateries. While not all restaurants in the area are owned by Disney, there are several that are operated by the company itself. From The Boathouse to Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew, these Disney-owned restaurants offer unique menus, atmospheres, and experiences that are sure to delight visitors of all ages.
By choosing to dine at a Disney-owned restaurant, visitors can enjoy a more immersive and engaging experience that is uniquely Disney. Whether you’re in the mood for seafood, barbecue, or a sweet treat, there’s a Disney-owned restaurant in Disney Springs that is sure to satisfy your cravings.
So next time you’re visiting Disney Springs, be sure to check out one of the Disney-owned restaurants listed above. With their unique menus, atmospheres, and experiences, these restaurants are sure to make your dining experience truly magical.
What is Disney Springs, and how does it relate to Disney-owned restaurants?
Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It was previously known as Downtown Disney and has undergone significant transformations over the years to become the vibrant destination it is today. Disney Springs offers a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining establishments, catering to diverse tastes and preferences.
Some of the restaurants in Disney Springs are owned and operated by Disney, while others are operated by third-party vendors. Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs offer a unique experience, often with themed decor, entertainment, and character interactions. These restaurants are designed to provide an immersive experience that complements the overall Disney brand.
Which restaurants in Disney Springs are owned by Disney?
Several restaurants in Disney Springs are owned and operated by Disney. Some of the notable ones include The Boathouse, The Polite Pig, D-Luxe Burger, and Chicken Guy!. These restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from seafood to barbecue to gourmet burgers. Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs often feature unique themes, decor, and entertainment options that enhance the dining experience.
For example, The Boathouse is a waterfront restaurant that offers seafood and steak, with a nostalgic, upscale atmosphere. The Polite Pig is a modern barbecue restaurant with a focus on Southern cuisine. D-Luxe Burger is a casual burger joint with a fun, retro vibe. Chicken Guy! is a quick-service restaurant specializing in chicken tenders and sandwiches.
What sets Disney-owned restaurants apart from third-party vendors in Disney Springs?
Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs are designed to provide an immersive experience that complements the overall Disney brand. These restaurants often feature unique themes, decor, and entertainment options that enhance the dining experience. For example, some Disney-owned restaurants offer character interactions, live music, or special effects that create a memorable experience for guests.
In contrast, third-party vendors in Disney Springs may not offer the same level of theming or entertainment. However, they can still provide high-quality cuisine and service. Some third-party vendors may also offer unique experiences or promotions that are not available at Disney-owned restaurants. Ultimately, the choice between a Disney-owned restaurant and a third-party vendor depends on personal preferences and priorities.
Can I use the Disney Dining Plan at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
Yes, the Disney Dining Plan can be used at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs. The Disney Dining Plan is a prepaid meal plan that allows guests to budget for their meals and snacks during their Disney vacation. The plan can be used at participating Disney-owned restaurants, including those in Disney Springs.
To use the Disney Dining Plan at a Disney-owned restaurant in Disney Springs, simply present your dining plan card or your MagicBand to the server or cashier. The meal will be deducted from your dining plan balance, and you will receive a receipt showing the remaining balance. It’s always a good idea to check with the restaurant or the Disney website to confirm that the Disney Dining Plan is accepted.
Do Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs offer special discounts or promotions?
Yes, Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs may offer special discounts or promotions from time to time. These offers can vary depending on the restaurant and the time of year. For example, some Disney-owned restaurants may offer discounts for annual passholders, Disney Vacation Club members, or military personnel.
To find out about current discounts or promotions, it’s best to check the Disney website or the restaurant’s website directly. You can also follow Disney Springs on social media or sign up for their email newsletter to stay informed about upcoming offers and events. Additionally, some Disney-owned restaurants may offer special deals or packages during holidays or special events.
Can I make reservations for Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
Yes, reservations can be made for Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs. In fact, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons or for popular restaurants. Reservations can be made online through the Disney website or by calling (407) WDW-DINE.
Some Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs may also offer walk-up availability or same-day reservations, subject to availability. However, it’s always best to plan ahead and make a reservation in advance to ensure availability, especially if you have a large group or prefer a specific time slot.
Are Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs suitable for guests with dietary restrictions?
Yes, Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs can accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. Disney is known for its commitment to providing options for guests with special dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Many Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs offer menus that cater to guests with dietary restrictions. For example, The Boathouse offers gluten-free options, while The Polite Pig has a separate vegetarian menu. It’s always best to inform the server or chef about any dietary restrictions or preferences, and they will do their best to accommodate your needs.