Disney Springs may be preparing for a new sweet destination as recent filings suggest one of Walt Disney World’s dessert landmarks could be expanding. The Notice of Commencement, submitted to Orange County, outlines a “New Tenant Build-Out” at 1600 E. Buena Vista Dr., Suite C-22, the former Art of Shaving location, which has been closed permanently.
The space is located near one of the most talked-about bakeries in the area, Gideon’s Bakehouse. Known for its large, handcrafted cookies and dark, storybook-inspired interior, Gideon’s has drawn long lines since opening its Disney Springs location in 2020. Guests can enjoy limited-edition monthly cookies and beverages like the peanut butter cold brew while soaking in the bakery’s atmosphere, which is more reminiscent of a themed attraction than a traditional bakery.
The construction permit lists Walt Disney World as the property owner, but the client is The First Raven LLC, the business entity connected to Steve Lewis, founder of Gideon’s, according to WDWNT. Lewis’s involvement usually indicates a project coming directly from the bakery’s brand, fueling speculation about either a second location or a new concept tied to the bakery’s distinctive style.
Gideon’s rise began in 2016 with a small 286-square-foot bakery inside East End Market. With only one employee and an $800 budget, the bakery focused on storytelling through its treats. Each cookie and cake is made using a 24-hour process and designed to evoke emotion. This approach quickly gained a loyal following.
The Disney Springs bakery elevated the brand’s visibility, offering immersive experiences that draw crowds daily. Virtual queues and monthly specials keep fans returning, and the bakery’s creative environment blends naturally with Disney’s immersive settings. The new permit points to a potential expansion that could include new menu items, extended space for guests, or fresh storytelling elements.
Although Disney and Gideon’s have not made any official statements, the empty Art of Shaving storefront, vacant since early 2024, offers an ideal location for growth. Fans are left to speculate whether this will be a second Gideon’s Bakehouse or a new venture inspired by the original bakery’s aesthetic and approach. Either way, Disney Springs could soon see one of its most intriguing dessert expansions.
How do you feel about a possible new Gideon's Bakehouse location? Let us know in the comments down below!
