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Legendary Disney Restaurant Suddenly Closes Just Before Major Celebration

Disneyland Resort is always buzzing with excitement and anticipation, especially with big events on the horizon. This year, excitement is building for Disneyland’s 70th Anniversary celebration, which is just around the corner. As part of the festivities, Disneyland will welcome back the beloved Paint the Night Parade and introduce the all-new Wondrous Journeys fireworks spectacular.

Wondrous Journeys Sleeping Beauty Castle Disneyland
Credit: Disney

Related: Don’t Miss Out: Disneyland’s Iconic Parade Now Comes With a Must-Try Dining Package!

Over at Disney California Adventure, guests will enjoy the heartwarming World of Color: Happiness! show, making this anniversary an event not to be missed.

But while Disneyland fans are gearing up for a festival of food, entertainment, and memories, one beloved Disneyland staple has temporarily closed its doors. Carnation Café, a dining spot that has been part of Disneyland since opening day, is undergoing a quick refurbishment in preparation for the big celebration.

While the café’s closure may have caught some off guard, the timing makes sense—Disney always wants to ensure everything is in perfect condition for such a monumental event.

Carnation Cafe Disneyland
Credit: Loren Javier, Flickr

Related: Disneyland Teases Anniversary Event With Huge New Announcement

A Timely Refurbishment Ahead of the 70th Anniversary

Carnation Café has long been a favorite of Disneyland visitors. Located on Main Street, U.S.A., the café is known for its charming atmosphere and delicious classic American fare. Over the years, it has been the go-to spot for a hearty breakfast, a delicious lunch, or even a quick snack while soaking up the park’s magic.

According to the official Disneyland Resort website, Carnation Café will remain closed until May 12, 2025, just four days before the 70th Anniversary celebration kicks off. While some may have been hoping to visit the café during the final days leading up to the anniversary, Disney’s decision to refurbish the location ensures that everything is in top shape for the highly anticipated festivities.

Carnation Cafe Disneyland
Credit: Tripadvisor

Related: Guests Stunned by Surprise Food Festival at Disney—Here’s What’s New!

When the café reopens, guests can expect not only the return of classic dishes like Walt’s Chili and Braised Short Rib but also a few new additions exclusive to the anniversary celebration. These include a Beef Stroganoff, a savory dish made with braised beef, bacon, onions, and mushrooms served over egg noodles.

Additionally, Disney is adding two exciting new drinks to the menu to celebrate the occasion: Karl Strauss Brewing Company’s 70th Anniversary IPA, which boasts grapefruit and tropical fruit notes, and a Tropical Rum Cocktail, made with Bacardi Superior Rum, Myers’s Original Dark Rum, pineapple, orange, lime juices, and grenadine.

Carnation Cafe Disneyland 70th Anniversary
Credit: Disney

The Rush for Reservations

Given the café’s popularity, securing a reservation at Carnation Café can be a challenge at the best of times. With the 70th Anniversary celebrations drawing in more guests than ever, it’s likely that reservations will be even harder to come by. For those hoping to dine at this iconic spot, it’s important to note that while reservations are not required, they are highly recommended to ensure a seat.

With the excitement surrounding the anniversary and the many new offerings and events taking place across the resort, it’s no surprise that Carnation Café will be busier than ever once it reopens. So, if you’re planning to visit Disneyland during the anniversary celebrations, be sure to secure a spot at the café as soon as possible.

Are you a fan of Carnation Café? What’s your must-have menu item when you visit Disneyland? Whether you’re a regular diner at the café or just looking forward to sampling the new anniversary offerings, we want to hear from you! 

Krysten Swensen

A born and bred New England girl living the Disney life in Southern California. I love to read, to watch The Golden Girls, and love everything to do with Disney and Universal. I also love to share daily doses of Disney on my Disney Instagram @BrazzleDazzleDisney!

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