food IS a theme park
It’s time for some more eats over at Disneyland Resort!
Red Rose Taverne
We recently found some new snacks over at Jolly Holiday, but now it’s time to head through the castle, past Snow White, jostle by the carrousel, and turn left to Red Rose Taverne. There are two new menu items we had to try and we’re here to tell you if they’re worth your money!
So much food, so little time. But we still MAKE the time when it comes to new Disney snacks.
Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland
We were pretty excited to try all the Star Wars-themed snacks recently, and we even sampled some new Guardians of the Galaxy-themed treats. Soon, we’ll be indulging in a few new Mother’s Day desserts, too. But in the meantime, we’re checking out the latest round of treats to make their way to Disneyland.
Today we’re headed to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort to check out the newly renovated Gasparilla Island Grill!
This counter service spot, tucked in a corner off of the first floor lobby, offers counter service fare.
Open 24 hours a day, it’s a great amenity for guests who arrive early or late in the day for their Disney visit. It’s also a good option for revelers who are enjoying late or early Extra Magic Hours!
The big news regarding Gasparilla, however, is the recently completed refurbishment that has changed the spot up a bit.
Gasparilla Sign
Let’s head in to see what has changed about this counter service oasis amid the finery of one of Disney’s most expensive resorts.
The Grand Floridian is undergoing lots of construction and refurbishment lately. In addition to the new Disney Vacation Club villas being built and the Beach Pool Bar undergoing updates, Gasparilla was closed from late summer 2012 until early this year, as the space (and the name!) was given an overhaul.
From the outside, however, it still looks very much the same as before. You enter the restaurant through doors from an outside terrace.
Terrace Leading to Gasparilla Island Grill
One complaint guests had about the previous incarnation of this spot was the “Grill and Games” combo. An assortment of arcade games shared space with the seating area. Though convenient for parents, it could get a little loud at times.
The arcade has now been relocated to an adjacent space where the Grand Floridian’s kids’ club used to be. With the arcade gone, the restaurant has been rechristened “Gasparilla Island Grill.” As with many spots around the Grand Floridian, this one takes its name from a Florida locale, Gasparilla Island, a gulf barrier island located on the state’s southwest coast.
Gasparilla Island Grill Entrance
Guests familiar with the old layout of Gasparilla will immediately notice the change to the restaurant’s look. The green and burgundy palette has been replaced with a simpler, more modern green and blue combination.
The seating has been greatly expanded as well, although the actual ordering area remains very similar.
View of the Restaurant Through the Seating Area
Ornate touches remain, however, and these chandeliers are a nice new (almost steampunky) touch. Check out the [Read more…]
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