21 Royal

Gosh, where to begin? 21 Royal isn’t really a restaurant. Even though it’s a physical address, it’s not just a place… my best description would be that 21 Royal is an EXPERIENCE. And an incredibly magical one, at that. I suppose you can’t expect any less from Disney. I’ll try not to provide any “spoilers,” as I went into it with very little information myself, which I think added to enjoyment. Just imagine you get a private tour and get to explore and touch everything – in a place where Walt Disney lived for over a year. You have the most delicious foods provided in several gorgeous courses, that change seasonally. The wine pairings (or temperance pairings) will blow your socks off, even if you don’t love wine. You have the most kind and funny hosts, including a butler better than Lumiere. The chef and sommelier will enrapture you with their knowledge and descriptions. And as you glow from the experience (or the alcohol), you then watch Fantastic and the fireworks from the private balcony. It’s a dream, and for any big Disney fan who can scrounge up the money - along with a whole group of Disney lovers - it’s so worth it. I already want to go back!

From the moment we stepped through the private entrance tucked away in the heart of Disneyland’s New Orleans Square, we knew we were about to experience something truly extraordinary. Disney’s 21 Royal is not just a dinner—it’s an opulent celebration of storytelling, hospitality, and culinary mastery. The evening began with a captivating behind-the-scenes tour that felt like a secret passage into Disney lore. As we wound through hidden corridors and private staircases, our anticipation grew with each step. When we reached the suite itself, we were utterly enchanted. The 21 Royal residence is a stunning blend of Victorian elegance and royal splendor, featuring several exquisitely designed bedrooms and bathrooms. Each room is filled with intricate details, from hand-painted murals to ornate chandeliers, evoking a sense of timeless luxury. Dinner was held in the lavish dining room, set beneath a celestial ceiling that sparkled just like the night sky. The chef and sommelier were not only gracious but profoundly knowledgeable. They curated a multi-course feast where each dish was a masterpiece—artfully plated, bursting with flavor, and perfectly paired with wines that elevated every bite. For our children, the team crafted nonalcoholic pairings that were equally delightful—imaginative, thoughtful, and beautifully presented. Every sip and taste felt like a tiny piece of magic. The service was flawless. With four attentive hosts attending to our every need, we felt pampered beyond imagination. Every movement was seamless, every gesture warm and genuine. It was as if the entire evening unfolded like a perfectly choreographed performance, where we were the honored guests. As the sun set and the evening sky came alive, we stepped out onto the private balcony overlooking the park. From there, we had a front-row view of the fireworks—an unforgettable spectacle made even more special by the serene exclusivity of our vantage point. We also found ourselves mesmerized watching guests below waiting in line for Pirates of the Caribbean—so close, yet a world away from the intimate escape we were enjoying. The evening concluded with a thoughtful touch: elegant gift bags, a final flourish to a night filled with wonder. Every detail, from the candlelit ambiance to the personalized touches, reflected the hallmark Disney magic. 21 Royal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, a journey into a world of beauty, flavor, and fantasy. It is the epitome of Disney enchantment wrapped in fine dining and royal service—a treasure trove of memories we will cherish forever.

We had an exceptional experience!

One of the best dining experiences you can have in your life.

Crazy amazing! Book a tour to see it.

Not a fan of fine dining but the experience I had is superb!

An absolutely amazing experience, truly once in a lifetime.

6 stars. An exclusive dining experience like no other.

STORYTIME: If you're a devoted Disney fan and crave an exclusive dining experience in the heart of Disneyland, 21 Royal is a must-consider. This unique opportunity allows you to invite up to 12 guests to spend an evening in one of Walt Disney's private apartment homes above the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. The space has authentic decor, fully functional amenities, and special effects, creating a magical atmosphere. With numerous rooms to explore and a chance to immerse yourself in the vintage vibes, 21 Royal offers a dining experience that is as unique as it is unforgettable. The staff's excellence was evident from the moment we boarded the private shuttle at the Grand California Hotel to our arrival at 21 Royal in Disneyland and throughout the dinner service. Their expertise and attentiveness enhanced the evening. The host encourages guests to take photos and videos in the magical space and feel at home for the evening. Backstage photos/videos are a no-no. We started the night with champagne and sparkling cider and enjoyed some hors d'oeuvres. Our hosts shared stories, and the bartender made signature drinks on the patio. DINNER TIME: The chefs and wine sommelier didn't just provide us with food and drink; they curated an experience. Their detailed explanations of the dishes and drink pairings throughout dinner excited and intrigued us. The wine and non-alcohol pairings were very interesting, and a few were exclusive to Disney. I discovered some new favorites to search for. The dinner menu was a six-course set prefix and was seasonally inspired, with an explanation of the chef's inspiration for the dishes. Every experience is unique, as the chef's passion for seasonal ingredients shines through each dish. Each dish came out at a consistent time, giving our group a chance to chat about the dishes and Disney experiences without feeling rushed. You won't feel stuffed, as this is more fine dining, but the quality of each dish was apparent and delicious. My favorite dishes were the imported A5 wagyu and perfectly cooked veal. My only critique was that I hoped there were a couple more courses. There are wine and non-alcoholic pairing options. I chose the latter, but many in our group chose the wine pairing. Both are great options. If you're a couple and choose one each, you can share all the pairings. AFTER DINNER: After dessert, it was time to watch Fantasmic, and fireworks shows from the balcony. It's an amazing way to experience the nighttime shows, and we were all in awe of the views. At the night's end, we received a nice gift bag with some goodies, a detailed dinner menu, our table name tag, a few treats for the road, and an exclusive 21 Royal pin. After a few more photos and final goodbyes with the staff, we were shuttled back to the Grand California Hotel. WAS IT WORTH IT? As with most Disney experiences, it's pricey. I won't sugarcoat it. But the more people in your group (12 max), the better you can split the cost. As a Disney fan for years and wanting to experience Club 33 (which I still haven't), 21 Royal is a close option! Once in a lifetime, but would I do it again? Sure, but not anytime soon. ;) Last but not least, there isn't a dress code, but our amazing group agreed on formal attire to match the special evening atmosphere. You can bring a change of clothes/shoes if you plan to stay in the park after. We didn't have kids in our group, but they could be included to share the magic.

Since the moment we arrived, we were given our own private shuttle and driver, & a tour guide who gave us backstage access and escorted us through the park into Walt's home! Enter 21 ROYAL. DISNEY DOES IT AGAIN Being the ONLY guests in 21 Royal for the night made us feel extra special. From our own bartender who made us signature cocktails, to our private chefs who cooked us an unforgettable epicurean six course dinner, & to our master sommelier, Matt, who brilliantly chose the best wines to pair with each entree, and also gave me a newfound love to Riesling (thank you).. to watching the Fantasmic show from Walt's own private patio and sending us off with 21 Royal delectables & collectibles at the end of the night- It was truly a magical experience from beginning to end. It is a once in a lifetime experience and so worth doing, especially if you're a Disney fan.

Things started out great. Our guide met us at the Grand Californian and escorted us into the park. Paul, was an amazing "butler" and greeted us and served lovely cocktails. But then things fell flat with dinner. Dishes were delivered so slowly. This is supposed to be fine dining with a known party of 12, and yet, course were presented slowly, piecemeal, and then a description of the dish that took longer to eat the dish. Any fine dining establishment would attempt to coordinate dinner delivery. This is not a fine dining experience. The dishes were overcooked - beef was done medium well, ahi tuna was over cooked. The food was such a disappointment. One of our guests asked for a refill on wine and was told there was only 2 bottles of wine for each course and no additional pours were available. This was classic Disney - Over hype, over priced, under deliver. Even when you take into account that $1000 per person is just for the venue, the dinner is over priced by double. It is not surprising that Michelin and James Beard don't recognize this dinner. It is for Disney suckers and not foodies.