The excitement is building for Disney fans as the Downtown Disney District at Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California, prepares to welcome a range of new shops, restaurants, and attractions. The long-anticipated updates to the shopping and dining area are set to bring fresh, immersive experiences to guests, creating even more reasons to visit this beloved destination. From new dining options to unique retail stores, here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know about the upcoming openings in Downtown Disney.
New Restaurants Coming to Downtown Disney
1. Din Tai Fung
Opening Date: Winter 2024
One of the most eagerly awaited restaurant openings in Downtown Disney is Din Tai Fung, the renowned Taiwanese dumpling chain famous for its soup dumplings (xiao long bao) and other signature dishes. Known worldwide for its exceptional craftsmanship and flavors, Din Tai Fung will offer an exciting new dining experience in the heart of Downtown Disney. Guests can expect a modern, yet authentic ambiance, with both indoor and outdoor seating options.
- Menu Highlights: Soup dumplings, pan-fried buns, noodles, and a variety of dim sum-style dishes.
- Why You Should Visit: Din Tai Fung’s reputation for impeccable quality and unique flavors makes this a must-try for food lovers. Whether you’re a fan of dim sum or new to this style of cuisine, it’s sure to be a hit for families and visitors of all ages.
2. The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers
Opening Date: Early 2025
Another sweet addition to the dining scene is The Cake Bake Shop, which will bring its famous cakes, pastries, and signature desserts to Downtown Disney. Gwendolyn Rogers, the founder and owner, has earned a reputation for creating stunningly beautiful and delicious desserts, and now Disneyland guests will be able to indulge in her creations in a fairy-tale-inspired setting.
- Menu Highlights: Custom cakes, cupcakes, pies, cookies, and afternoon tea service.
- Why You Should Visit: This bakery is not just about delicious treats, but the entire experience—expect whimsical, elegant decor and a perfect spot for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying an afternoon treat. The cake and dessert designs are almost too pretty to eat!
3. Paseo
Opening Date: Late 2024
Paseo will offer a contemporary, Latin-inspired menu featuring a variety of shareable plates, tacos, and cocktails. Designed to fit into the vibrant, colorful aesthetic of Downtown Disney, Paseo will bring guests an energetic yet relaxed vibe for both lunch and dinner.
- Menu Highlights: Street-style tacos, ceviches, grilled meats, and a robust cocktail menu.
- Why You Should Visit: For fans of flavorful, fresh Mexican and Latin American dishes, Paseo promises to be a welcome addition. The casual yet stylish setting, paired with delicious food and drinks, makes it an ideal spot for both daytime and evening visits.
New Retail Shops and Experiences
4. Disney100 Celebration Store
Opening Date: Winter 2024
To commemorate 100 years of Disney magic, the Disney100 Celebration Store will offer a one-stop shop for all things related to the monumental anniversary. This store will feature exclusive merchandise celebrating Disney’s rich history, including limited-edition clothing, collectibles, and memorabilia. The store will have a special focus on celebrating the legacy of Disney, with items inspired by classic films, characters, and iconic moments in Disney history.
- Why You Should Visit: For Disney enthusiasts, this store will be a treasure trove of exclusive items. Whether you’re collecting rare merchandise or just looking for a keepsake to commemorate your visit, this shop will be a must-see.
5. Porto’s Bakery & Café
Opening Date: Early 2025
Porto’s Bakery & Café, a beloved Cuban-inspired bakery and café, will make its debut in Downtown Disney. Known for its mouthwatering pastries, savory dishes, and iconic Cuban sandwiches, Porto’s is a Los Angeles favorite and has garnered a loyal fan base. The new location will bring the flavors of Cuban culture to the Disneyland Resort, with both takeout and dine-in options.
- Menu Highlights: Cuban sandwiches, pastries (including the famous potato balls), cakes, and fresh juices.
- Why You Should Visit: For foodies looking to try something new and exciting, Porto’s offers a unique and flavorful culinary experience. Expect vibrant dishes with bold, savory flavors paired with sweet treats that are perfect for dessert lovers.
Exciting Enhancements and New Experiences
In addition to new restaurants and shops, Downtown Disney will see several exciting updates and enhancements in the coming months:
1. Expanded Outdoor Seating and Entertainment Areas
To accommodate the growing crowds, Downtown Disney will introduce more outdoor seating and entertainment spaces. This will give guests the opportunity to enjoy live performances, musical acts, and Disney-themed shows in an expanded outdoor setting. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the magical atmosphere of the resort, especially during evenings when the area comes alive with vibrant energy.
2. Redesigned Walkways and Open Spaces
In an effort to make Downtown Disney more pedestrian-friendly, Disney is planning a redesign of the walkways to provide more open spaces for guests to relax, shop, and dine. This redesign aims to make Downtown Disney feel even more immersive, with new landscaping, water features, and seating areas for guests to enjoy.
What This Means for Downtown Disney
With these new additions, Downtown Disney is transforming into an even more vibrant destination that not only serves as a place to shop and dine but also as an immersive entertainment and cultural experience. The new shops and restaurants will elevate the overall atmosphere of the area, drawing both local visitors and Disney fans from around the world.
For those planning a visit to Disneyland Resort in the near future, the revamped Downtown Disney district promises to be an exciting destination in its own right—perfect for a shopping spree, a delicious meal, or simply soaking in the magic of Disney.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a foodie, a Disney fan, or someone who loves discovering new experiences, the new shops and restaurants opening in Downtown Disney are sure to delight. From the arrival of iconic eateries like Din Tai Fung and The Cake Bake Shop to new retail stores celebrating Disney’s legacy, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Keep an eye on the opening dates, as the transformation of Downtown Disney is bound to bring a new level of excitement to Disneyland Resort, making it a must-visit for both new guests and loyal Disney enthusiasts alike.
