An iconic part of Disneyland’s dining scene is set to be demolished, leaving fans both nostalgic and curious about what comes next. Tortilla Jo’s, a beloved Mexican restaurant in Downtown Disney, near Disneyland Park in Anaheim, California, is scheduled for demolition after two decades of operation.
The permit for its demolition was filed by Disneyland on Thursday, according to reports from the San Francisco Gate. While the City of Anaheim has not officially approved the request, the process is expected to be a mere formality.
A Beloved Spot Bids Farewell
Tortilla Jo’s was a fan favorite among Disneyland visitors and locals alike. Its closure earlier this year marked the end of its 20-year run. The restaurant had been a staple of Downtown Disney, an area filled with shops and eateries designed to complement the Disneyland experience. Despite its popularity, some felt it had become dated, as echoed by the sentiments of Disneyland visitors.
One Reddit user commented, “Downtown Disney has started to feel like a dead mall, so it’s good they are making changes.
Some fans even speculated on what could replace the well-known spot, with suggestions like a potential return of the Rainforest Cafe making the rounds.
New Dining Experiences on the Horizon
Tortilla Jo’s will soon be replaced by two new restaurants from acclaimed chef Joe Isidori, adding to his existing culinary footprint in Downtown Disney. One will be a sophisticated steakhouse offering prime cuts of beef, seafood, and gourmet salads. The other will be a quick-service barbecue restaurant that promises mouthwatering brisket, pulled pork, and creative cocktails.
The updates are part of Disneyland’s ongoing efforts to revamp Downtown Disney, ensuring it stays fresh and exciting for visitors.
A Revitalized Downtown Disney
Tortilla Jo’s isn’t the only major change happening in the area. The Earl of Sandwich, another popular eatery, will also close in 2025. However, fans of the sandwich chain won’t have to say goodbye permanently, as it will move to a new building nearby. Its current location will be replaced by the highly anticipated Porto’s Bakery.
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In addition to these dining changes, new retail offerings are coming to Downtown Disney. The Avengers Reserve store, which will sell Marvel-themed merchandise, is set to open near the popular Lego store. Fans of fashion will also be delighted with the upcoming D-Lander Shop, offering trendy styles tailored for Disneyland enthusiasts.
Disneyland’s Biggest Expansion Since the 1990s
All these changes are happening alongside a much larger transformation. Disneyland recently received approval for a $1.9 billion expansion, marking the most significant renovation since the addition of the California Adventure park in the 1990s. The expansion will bring new attractions based on popular franchises like Zootopia and Toy Story, along with significant infrastructure upgrades.
This renovation coincides with other changes Disneyland is making, including new ticket prices set for 2025 and updates to its ride reservation system, giving visitors more flexibility when planning their trips.
Disney’s commitment to investing in its parks is evident in its announcement to spend $60 billion over the next decade on expanding both its parks and cruise lines, ensuring the magic continues for generations to come.
As Downtown Disney prepares for these updates, fans eagerly await the new experiences while bidding farewell to the familiar.