Disneyland Paris is finally addressing its culinary shortcomings. After years of criticism for its lackluster food offerings, the Parisian resort is undergoing a significant culinary transformation, albeit one that comes with a hefty price tag.
While Disney parks in the U.S. have long prioritized both immersive dining experience and quality cuisine – from the Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s at Walt Disney World to the sophisticated Carthay Circle Restaurant at Disneyland – Disneyland Paris has consistently fallen short.
Despite its location in a country renowned for its gastronomic prowess, the park’s food scene has often felt like an afterthought, plagued by uninspired menus and inconsistent quality.
But change is on the horizon. On March 7, Disneyland Paris will debut La Forêt Secrète par Jean Imbert at the Disneyland Hotel. This new restaurant, the hotel’s third after Royal Banquet and La Table de Lumière, marks a significant step in the resort’s culinary evolution.
Helmed by Michelin-starred chef Jean Imbert, a self-proclaimed Disneyland Paris enthusiast, La Forêt Secrète promises a “culinary experience inspired by the greatest Disney Animation movies in a magical setting.” Disney has remained tight-lipped about the menu and interior design, but has confirmed that the restaurant will be open to all guests, not just hotel residents, from Wednesday to Sunday evenings.
The involvement of a Michelin-starred chef, however, signals a decidedly upscale dining experience – and a corresponding price point. La Forêt Secrète is poised to be Disneyland Paris’ most expensive restaurant yet, with adult menus priced at €140 (USD $146) for three courses and €200 (USD $209) for five. Children’s meals will cost €70.
The question remains: Will guests be willing to shell out upwards of $200 for a meal at Disneyland Paris? The resort has made headlines multiple times in recent years for its price increases, with everything from tickets and table-service meals to hotel rooms soaring in cost.
Disneyland Hotel, in particular, has been clearly reoriented as an experience limited to those willing to shell out the big bucks for their Disney vacation. Nights at the hotel – which now boasts a Disney Princesses theme – can now cost over $1,000.
While the promise of Michelin-starred cuisine and Disney magic is undoubtedly enticing, the price tag could prove to be a barrier for many. This culinary gamble could be a game-changer for Disneyland Paris, but only time will tell if it pays off.
What’s your favorite Disney dining experience?
