Abandoned Disney Restaurant Being Converted Into Lounge Space

In 2006, a brand-new high-end steakhouse opened in the Disneyland Hotel at Disneyland Resort. The restaurant was Steakhouse 55, which replaced Granville Steakhouse, which had been a staple at the Resort since 1955. Steakhouse 55 transported Guests back to the golden age of Hollywood, with the 55 paying homage to the year Disneyland Park opened. The restaurant was known for its mouthwatering steaks, delectable side dishes, fancy cocktails, and some of the highest prices at the Resort.

Steakhouse 55 had to close its doors in March 2020, when Disneyland Resort was forced to shut down entirely because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Resort remained closed for more than a year, finally reopening in April 2021. When the Parks opened, Steakhouse 55 remained closed. Guests were hoping that the restaurant would open at a later date, since not everything reopened all at once. However, as the months wore on and the restaurant remained closed, things didn’t look good for Guests who wanted a steakhouse meal at The Happiest Place on Earth.

In July 2021, Disney confirmed that Steakhouse 55 was closing for good and that it was exploring other options for the space. Well, that was more than two years ago. Now, we finally know what Disney will be doing with the space. Disneyland officials announced that the area would be converted into a “flexible lounge space”, sometimes becoming an extension of a seasonal bar, so more Guests can be accommodated.

Disney officials have not said if they plan to open another restaurant in the space or do something more permanent in the future.

Steakhouse 55 was beloved by Disneyland Resort Guests, and was even the inspiration for one of Walt Disney World Resort’s newest eateries. Steakhouse 71 opened at Disney’s Contemporary Resort on October 1, 2021. That was the day that The Most Magical Place on Earth began celebrating its 50th Anniversary.

Guests who dine at Steakhouse 71 can enjoy delectable offerings like lump crab cakes, French onion soup, New York Strip, Prime Rib, Filet Mignon, and the must-try Crème brûlée. Steakhouse 71 is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is just a quick walk to Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park.