Disney Springs, formerly known as Downtown Disney, is a popular shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. The area has undergone significant transformations over the years, with new restaurants, shops, and attractions being added regularly. One question that often comes to mind when visiting Disney Springs is: does Disney own any restaurants in the area? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Disney Springs dining and explore the answer to this question.
A Brief History of Disney Springs
Before we dive into the world of 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, a small shopping and dining complex that catered to the guests of the nearby Walt Disney World Resort. Over the years, the area underwent several transformations, including a major expansion in the 1980s that added new shops, restaurants, and attractions.
In 2015, the area was rebranded as Disney Springs, with a focus on creating a more immersive and engaging experience for guests. The rebranding included the addition of new restaurants, shops, and attractions, as well as a major overhaul of the area’s infrastructure.
Disney-Owned Restaurants in Disney Springs
So, does Disney own any restaurants in Disney Springs? The answer is yes. While there are many third-party owned and operated restaurants in the area, Disney also owns and operates several restaurants in Disney Springs. Here are a few examples:
The Boathouse
The Boathouse is a waterfront restaurant located in The Landing area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by Disney and serves up classic American cuisine, including seafood, steak, and pasta dishes. One of the unique features of The Boathouse is its collection of vintage amphicars, which can be seen driving into the water and taking guests on a tour of the surrounding area.
The Polite Pig
The Polite Pig is a modern barbecue restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by Disney and serves up a variety of barbecue favorites, including ribs, brisket, and chicken. The Polite Pig also features a unique cocktail bar, where guests can enjoy craft cocktails and small plates.
D-Luxe Burger
D-Luxe Burger is a gourmet burger joint located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by Disney and serves up a variety of unique burgers, including the “Classic Cheeseburger” and the “El Diablo Burger.” D-Luxe Burger also features a build-your-own burger bar, where guests can customize their burgers with a variety of toppings.
Third-Party Owned and Operated Restaurants in Disney Springs
While Disney owns and operates several restaurants in Disney Springs, there are also many third-party owned and operated restaurants in the area. These restaurants offer a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences, from casual quick-service eateries to upscale table-service restaurants.
The Edison
The Edison is a contemporary American restaurant located in The Landing area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by Andrew Sutton, a renowned chef and restaurateur, and serves up a variety of classic American dishes, including steak, seafood, and pasta.
STK Orlando
STK Orlando is a modern steakhouse located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by The ONE Group, a hospitality company that operates several restaurants and bars around the world. STK Orlando serves up a variety of steak and seafood dishes, including the signature “STK Ribeye.”
Unique Dining Experiences in Disney Springs
In addition to its many restaurants, Disney Springs also offers several unique dining experiences that are sure to delight guests of all ages. Here are a few examples:
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant
Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant is a lively Irish pub located in The Landing area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by Irish chef Kevin Dundon and serves up a variety of traditional Irish dishes, including shepherd’s pie and fish and chips. Raglan Road also features live music and dancing, making it a great spot to enjoy a pint of Guinness and some lively entertainment.
Paradiso 37
Paradiso 37 is a modern Mexican restaurant located in the Town Center area of Disney Springs. The restaurant is owned and operated by E-Brands Restaurants, a hospitality company that operates several restaurants and bars around the world. Paradiso 37 serves up a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, including tacos, burritos, and enchiladas. The restaurant also features a unique tequila bar, where guests can enjoy a variety of tequila-based cocktails.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Disney does own several restaurants in Disney Springs, including The Boathouse, The Polite Pig, and D-Luxe Burger. However, there are also many third-party owned and operated restaurants in the area, offering a wide range of cuisines and dining experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for classic American cuisine, modern barbecue, or traditional Irish fare, Disney Springs has something for everyone. So why not come and experience it for yourself? With its unique dining experiences, lively entertainment options, and world-class shopping, Disney Springs is the perfect destination for anyone looking to add a little magic to their Disney vacation.
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Location | Owned and Operated By |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Boathouse | American | The Landing | Disney |
| The Polite Pig | Barbecue | Town Center | Disney |
| D-Luxe Burger | Burgers | Town Center | Disney |
| The Edison | American | The Landing | Andrew Sutton |
| STK Orlando | Steakhouse | Town Center | The ONE Group |
Note: The table above is not an exhaustive list of all the restaurants in Disney Springs, but rather a selection of some of the restaurants mentioned in the article.
What is Disney Springs and what can I expect to find there?
Disney Springs is a shopping, dining, and entertainment district located at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. It’s a popular destination for both locals and tourists, offering a wide range of experiences, from unique shopping and dining options to live music and entertainment. At Disney Springs, you can find everything from high-end boutiques to specialty stores, as well as a variety of restaurants and eateries serving cuisine from around the world.
In addition to shopping and dining, Disney Springs also offers a range of entertainment options, including live music performances, street performers, and a build-your-own-stuffed-animal workshop at Build-A-Bear Workshop. You can also catch a movie at the on-site cinema or take a ride on the Aerophile, a tethered helium balloon that offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
Does Disney own any restaurants in Disney Springs?
Yes, Disney owns several restaurants in Disney Springs. Some of the Disney-owned restaurants in the area include The Boathouse, The Polite Pig, and D-Luxe Burger. These restaurants offer a range of cuisine, from seafood and barbecue to gourmet burgers and milkshakes. Disney also owns several other dining establishments in Disney Springs, including the award-winning Morimoto Asia and the popular Wolfgang Puck Express.
In addition to these Disney-owned restaurants, Disney Springs is also home to a number of other dining establishments that are owned and operated by third-party companies. These restaurants offer a wide range of cuisine, from Italian and Mexican to Asian and American comfort food. Some popular third-party restaurants in Disney Springs include The Edison, STK Orlando, and Paradiso 37.
What types of cuisine can I find at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
The Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs offer a range of cuisine, from seafood and barbecue to gourmet burgers and milkshakes. The Boathouse, for example, serves up seafood and steak in a waterfront setting, while The Polite Pig offers a variety of barbecue favorites, including ribs, brisket, and chicken. D-Luxe Burger, on the other hand, serves up gourmet burgers and milkshakes in a fun and casual atmosphere.
In addition to these options, Disney also owns several other restaurants in Disney Springs that offer a range of international cuisine. Morimoto Asia, for example, serves up pan-Asian cuisine, including sushi, noodle bowls, and hot pot. Wolfgang Puck Express, on the other hand, offers a range of international cuisine, including pizza, salads, and sandwiches.
Are there any character dining experiences available at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
No, there are no character dining experiences available at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs. While Disney Springs is a popular destination for families, the Disney-owned restaurants in the area do not offer character dining experiences. However, there are several other character dining experiences available at other locations throughout the Walt Disney World Resort, including Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at Epcot.
If you’re looking for a fun and interactive dining experience at Disney Springs, you might consider The Boathouse, which offers a waterfront setting and a range of seafood and steak options. You could also try The Polite Pig, which offers a fun and casual atmosphere and a variety of barbecue favorites.
Can I make reservations at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
Yes, you can make reservations at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs. In fact, reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak dining hours or on weekends and holidays. You can make reservations online or by calling (407) WDW-DINE. Some Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs, such as The Boathouse and Morimoto Asia, also offer walk-up seating, but availability is limited and subject to change.
It’s worth noting that some Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs may offer special experiences or events that require reservations, such as wine pairings or chef’s tables. These experiences often fill up quickly, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make your reservations well in advance.
Are Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs eligible for the Disney Dining Plan?
Yes, many Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs are eligible for the Disney Dining Plan. The Disney Dining Plan is a convenient way to budget for meals during your Walt Disney World vacation, and it can be used at a wide range of Disney-owned restaurants, including those in Disney Springs. Some popular Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs that are eligible for the Disney Dining Plan include The Boathouse, The Polite Pig, and D-Luxe Burger.
It’s worth noting that not all Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs are eligible for the Disney Dining Plan, so it’s a good idea to check ahead of time to confirm. You can find a list of participating restaurants on the official Walt Disney World website or by contacting Disney directly.
Can I use the My Disney Experience app to make reservations or check wait times at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs?
Yes, you can use the My Disney Experience app to make reservations or check wait times at Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs. The My Disney Experience app is a convenient way to plan and manage your Walt Disney World vacation, and it offers a range of features, including the ability to make dining reservations, check wait times, and even order food and drinks from your mobile device.
To make a reservation or check wait times at a Disney-owned restaurant in Disney Springs, simply open the My Disney Experience app and navigate to the “Dining” section. From there, you can search for restaurants, make reservations, and even check wait times in real-time. You can also use the app to order food and drinks from participating restaurants, including some Disney-owned restaurants in Disney Springs.