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The progress never sleeps at Disney World, especially when it comes to the re-theming of DinoLand, U.S.A. into a Tropical Americas themed land.
We’ve seen Disney file a permit for the construction of the land, and it’ll be bringing the new attractions, shops, and restaurant to life. Speaking of a restaurant, while the changes coming to Restaurantosaurus sound well and good in theory, let’s have a quick chat about why we’re actually dreading those very changes!
As we were saying, as part of the the re-theme of DinoLand, U.S.A. into Pueblo Esperanza, the restaurant that will formerly be known as “Restaurantosaurus” will become the largest quick service restaurant. And truthfully that has us feeling, shall we say, less than magical.
Here’s the thing: when Disney says “largest quick service,” we’ve learned to brace ourselves. Big dining spaces in the Disney parks tend to feel less like magical escapes and more like…cafeterias. If you think of the Connections Café & Eatery at EPCOT or Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café at Magic Kingdom, you’ll know exactly what we’re talking about. Those are some pretty massive quick-service spots that sound great in theory but can quickly turn into chaos.
The Crowding Problem
If you’ve been in these huge quick-service locations before, you know that the crowds seem to multiply (magically), and even though they’re designed to hold a lot of people, finding a table is often still an epic struggle.
Why is that? Because they become the go-to spot for tons of park-goers who just want something easy, which makes them feel crowded all day long.
You’ve got families jockeying for spots, groups holding down tables with trays of fries while others wander aimlessly hoping to find a seat. It’s not exactly a magical experience, and honestly, isn’t that what we’re here for?
The Food Isn’t Exactly Gourmet
Let’s not forget about the food they serve in these spots. When Disney focuses on size and throughput, the menu usually follows suit. For example, think burgers, chicken nuggets, flatbreads, etc. It’s all the same kind of safe, basic stuff that’s guaranteed to sell fast.
Sure, we all love a good Disney nugget sesh, but let’s be real: Animal Kingdom has some of the most exciting dining in all of Walt Disney World (i.e. Satu’li Canteen, Nomad Lounge, etc.). The idea of getting another forgettable menu just stings.
The Ambience Shift
Say what you want about DinoLand U.S.A., but Restaurantosaurus had charm. It leaned into its kitschy dino theme with a sense of humor that made eating there feel fun.
With the shift to the Tropical Americas, it’s unclear exactly what vibe the new space will go for, but we’re guessing it won’t feel quite as playful. Instead, we’re picturing a big, functional dining hall with rainforest-themed decor, which will be fine, but not exactly memorable.
Why This Matters
At the end of the day, we’re not here to knock this expansion. We’re genuinely hyped for this new land, but there is an argument to be made that the area’s quick-service restaurant will lose a bit of its unique charm.
So, here’s hoping Disney surprises us with something fresh and exciting. In the meantime, stay tuned to AllEars for all your Disney World news and more updates about the construction on Pueblo Esperanza!
NEWS: Disney Files Crucial Permit for DinoLand, U.S.A. Retheme
What are your thoughts about this restaurant becoming the largest quick service in Disney World? Let us know in the comments!
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