Disney Fast-Tracks Opening of Controversial Animal Kingdom Dining Location
A controversial reopening is on the way to Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Animal Kingdom is going through some big changes right now. Zootopia: Better Zoogether! recently debuted inside the Tree of Life in the place of It’s Tough to Be a Bug, while DinoLand U.S.A. is being dismantled to make way for the Tropical Americas expansion.
That expansion will introduce attractions inspired by Encanto (2021) and Indiana Jones, though construction is expected to span several years. Until then, Disney is balancing closures with temporary solutions.
Dining availability has become a key part of that balancing act.
Harambe Market Shows Signs of Reopening
Harambe Market has been closed since October 2025, when Disney began a temporary refurbishment at the Africa-area quick-service location. At the time, Disney confirmed the closure would extend into early 2026.
For months, no reopening date was provided. That changed recently when operating hours appeared on the Disney World website, listing a March 1, 2026, return.
The listing represents the first public indication that construction may be nearing completion. A March reopening would restore a major dining option ahead of the spring break travel period.
However, new reporting suggests the location could reopen earlier.
According to @ScottGustin, Disney plans to have Harambe Market operating before March.
Gustin reports the restaurant is expected to reopen by the time Restaurantosaurus closes on February 1.
Harambe Market at Disney’s Animal Kingdom now has operating hours posted beginning March 1. However, it should open before March. From what I understand, Disney plans to have Harambe Market operating when Restaurantasaurus has its final day of operation on Feb. 1. pic.twitter.com/E5ePm3kOZR
— Scott Gustin (@ScottGustin) January 2, 2026
If accurate, the move would prevent Animal Kingdom from losing a major quick-service venue without a replacement available.
Restaurantosaurus is scheduled to close permanently as Disney removes the final elements of DinoLand U.S.A.
Disney has not officially confirmed an earlier reopening date. Guests planning visits in late January or February are advised to monitor the My Disney Experience app or Disney World website for updates.
Dining Changes and Guest Reaction
Before closing, Harambe Market stood out for its globally inspired menu, offering options less common at Walt Disney World quick-service locations.
Menu items included a Chicken and Shrimp Rice Bowl, Chicken Caesar Salad, Beef and Lamb Kofta Pita, and a Mango-Passion Fruit Cheesecake.
The reopened location, however, is expected to feature a simplified menu focused on standard theme park offerings such as burgers and chicken strips.
The change has drawn criticism from some guests.
As one fan wrote, “The death of Harambe market is now complete. They kept dumbing the menu down until the inevitable.”
Others have described the shift online as the “ultimate Animal Kingdom L,” pointing to the loss of distinctive food options within the park.
Beyond its menu, Harambe Market has long been recognized for its immersive design. The space is themed around a colonial-era train depot and anchored by a prominent water tower overlooking the seating area.
The outdoor seating has remained open during the closure, with guests directed to nearby dining locations such as Flame Tree Barbecue and Pizzafari.
What do you think of the changes at Harambe Market?
