Disney Still Doesn’t Know What To Do with 4 Abandoned Restaurants…and We’re PERPLEXED

If we know anything about Disney World, it’s that they know how to do the magic, memories, and of course, food!

Speaking of food, have you noticed that in the midst of all the deliciousness, there are a couple of abandoned Disney restaurants that have us scratching our heads. Why are they sitting empty? Why haven’t they been revamped or repurposed? Let’s dive into why Disney still doesn’t seem to know what to do with them, and why we’re totally perplexed.

As we were saying, there are four abandoned restaurants that Disney doesn’t seem to know what to do with. We’re talking about Tomorrowland Terrace, Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn, Restaurant Marrakesh, and the Garden View Tea Room.

Tomorrowland Terrace (Magic Kingdom)

First up, let’s talk about Tomorrowland Terrace. Now, if you’re a regular at Magic Kingdom, you’ve surely passed right by this one many-a-time and wondered why it’s almost always closed.

It’s technically still used…sometimes. During special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, it pops up with limited service, and don’t forget the dessert parties during the fireworks! But outside of these occasions, it does feels like Tomorrowland Terrace is in this weird restaurant limbo. We do know that the kitchens attached to the restaurant are also used for quite a few Quick Service locations in Tomorrowland as well.

Imagine if this spot was fully operating and all the futuristic bites it could be serving up. But nope, Disney keeps it in this odd SUPER semi-open state, and we’re left wondering if they’ll ever give it the attention it deserves. Come on, Disney. It’s right there!

Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn (Magic Kingdom — Tom Sawyer Island)

Let’s talk about Aunt Polly’s Dockside Inn. You know, that the little spot on Tom Sawyer Island. We have to say, this one stings a bit because Aunt Polly’s is pure Disney nostalgia. For a long time, it was a charming, low-key place to grab a snack and just relax in Magic Kingdom.

But as much as we loved Aunt Polly’s, Tom Sawyer Island is getting phased out. Since, Disney will be converting the area into the brand-new Cars Land, Aunt Polly’s future is looking dim. Is it likely to reopen? Probably not. We’ll just have to wait and see what happens when Cars Land becomes a reality. But we would really love to have that Peanut Butter, Chocolate-Hazelnut, and Banana Sammie one more time.

Restaurant Marrakesh (EPCOT)

Restaurant Marrakesh at EPCOT’s Morocco Pavilion used to be a staple, with its delicious food and even belly-dancing entertainment! But since the pandemic, it’s been a different story.

For the past couple of years, it’s only been operating as a lounge. You can still grab a drink or snack, but the full dining experience? Well that’s been long gone.

It’s weird, right? Especially since EPCOT’s World Showcase is all about that immersive dining from around the world. You’d think Disney would jump on bringing back this restaurant or a similar restaurant in its place, but for now, it just sits there, mostly unused, taunting us with all of its potential.

Garden View Tea Room (Grand Floridian)

Lastly, there’s Garden View Tea Room over at the Grand Floridian. If you love a good afternoon tea, this place was a dream. But the Tea Room has been closed for years now, with no real updates in sight.

Now, to be honest, the Grand Floridian has been undergoing renovations lately, so maybe we’ll see the Tea Time come back to this spot in style?

We’re cautiously optimistic, but for now, we’re still left with the lingering question, “Why hasn’t Disney revived such a fan-favorite spot?”

There you have it! Four abandoned restaurants that Disney seems not to know what to do with. But, before you go, we know you have opinions and we’re HERE for them! Leave a review on Disney rides, restaurants, and more right here on AllEars. Good or bad, let your voice be heard, and be sure to stay tuned to AllEars for the latest Disney World news!

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What’s your favorite Disney World restaurant? Tell us all about it in the comments! 

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