When we ran into Chef Justin Monson at The Ecology Center's Green Feast last month, he alluded to something brewing over at his establishment– which happens to be the exclusive Club 33 inside Disneyland. One follow up email later, Justin was almost as vague, stating that a new private dining room will soon be accessible to the public.
As a result, we sought out legitimate Club 33 intel. While the members we contacted were happy to discuss what they knew, we also received strict requests not to use their names (for fear of losing membership privileges). Fair enough. Below are excerpts from official Disney correspondence, in the form of an email and mailed brochure.
After nearly 50 years, the space Walt and Lillian originally envisioned as a private dining room overlooking the Rivers of America will finally serve as it was first intended. 21 Royal Street at Disneyland Dream Suite will immerse guests in an intimate and signature dining experience unlike any other.
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Inspired by a mid-1960s painting by illustrator Dorothea Redmond, this newly reimagined space is designed in the Empire style, popular in 19th century New Orleans. Gorgeous murals painted by Disney artist Leslee Turnbull depict life in and around New Orleans, including a morning street scene in the French Quarter, the “Mark Twain” steaming up the Rivers of America and a garden party at an antebellum manor (before it became the “Haunted Mansion”).
Every detail found in this room was carefully planned, from the gold-plated dinnerware featuring the prestigious 21 Royal Street emblem to enchanting magical surprises–revealed only to those who dine in this elegant venue.
Guests will have two dining adventures to choose from.
A private dining offering:
Upon gathering at the Club 33 Le Salon Nouveau, parties will be escorted into the intimate setting for a signature dining experience hosted by the 21 Royal and Club 33 culinary team. Guests will enjoy a five-course dining experience.
The Disneyland Dream Suite Premier Experience:
For those seeking to, as Walt would say, “plus” their experience, guests may reserve this –a historical and culinary journey that pays tribute to Walt Disney's legacy of storytelling and artistry.
Guests will arrive at Disney's Grand Californian Hotel N Spa, where they will be escorted to Disneyland Park for their journey to 21 Royal Street. Gathering on the patio of the Disneyland Dream Suite, guests will enjoy cocktails and hors d'oeuvres while learning about the history of what would have been Walt and Lillian's home within the park.
Following the cocktail presentation, guests will enter the 21 Royal Street dining room where they will partake in a seven-course chef's tasting menu (with options to supplement), featuring ingredients from around the world that are skillfully prepared by the 21 Royal Street culinary team. To conclude the evening, guests will enjoy an assortment of after-dinner drinks and coffee on the balcony of Disneyland's Dream Suite.
Although groups are allowed a maximum headroom of 14, we also learned that the public will not be allowed unless no member has booked it. Wine pairing is recommended, but not included in these prix-fixe meals. A venue charge is waived for Club 33 members, and park entry is not included for either option. Due to seasonal availability, menus are prepared with 14 days advance notice.
Consider this added to our bucket list.
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A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.