The finish line is finally in sight for the extended refurbishment of the Hollywood Brown Derby, as guests visiting Disney's Hollywood Studios on Monday reported the historic restaurant's construction project nearing completion.
A Restaurant Steeped in History
The Hollywood Brown Derby has been a fixture at Disney's Hollywood Studios since the park's opening day, May 1, 1989. The Table-Service restaurant draws its inspiration from the legendary hat-shaped eatery that once stood in Los Angeles, making it one of the park's most enduring dining destinations.
How the Construction Unfolded
The project first became visible back in June, when rolling planters and other barriers appeared on the patio space beside the restaurant's main entrance — an area typically used by the Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge. Early signs suggested Walt Disney World Resort was simply repaving the space, but the scope of the work soon expanded.
Crews refinished the exterior wall along the side of the building, and it eventually became clear Disney was overhauling the entire outdoor dining area, replacing the individual umbrellas that once shaded guests with something far more permanent.
Nearing the Finish Line
WDWNT reported on Monday that the months-long project appears to be in its final stages. While rolling planters still encircle the restaurant's patio, progress is now visible from above the barriers.
Just a week earlier, crews had installed the framework for a new awning over the patio. That structure is now wrapped in red fabric matching the Hollywood Brown Derby's existing awnings elsewhere on the building. Beneath the new overhang, cast members have since added fans, decorative golden beams, and light fixtures.
Dining Continues Amid Construction
Guests haven't lost access to the restaurant during the renovation. The main Hollywood Brown Derby dining room remains open and operating normally, and the Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge has also stayed open throughout the project, though it's currently limited to the smaller side-patio space on the opposite side of the building.
Walt Disney World Resort has not confirmed an exact completion date for the project, but recent progress suggests the space could reopen in the near future.
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