Located in California Adventure Park, Carthay Circle Restaurant & Lounge is a meticulous reproduction of the iconic Carthay Circle Theatre in Los Angeles. The original Carthay Circle Theatre—built in 1926—was one of the great movie palaces of Hollywood’s golden age and it played a pivotal role in Walt Disney’s life. His first feature-length film, Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, premiered there in 1937, and in 1941 groundbreaking stereophonic “Fantasound” was installed for the West Coast premiere of Fantasia.
The design and décor reflects the romance and glamour of a bygone era with rare artifacts and references to the early Disney era.
Carthay Circle Restaurant
Carthay Circle Restaurant occupies the second floor of the building. Take note of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs Courvoisier cels—the only animated art ever to hang in Walt Disney’s home—and the charming pastoral scene from the movie painted on the ceiling of the main dining room.
The modern, seasonal menu spotlights Southern California flavors and fresh, locally sourced ingredients—courtesy of Chef Andrew Sutton, Culinary Director of the award-winning Napa Rose. We enjoyed three fantastic starters: Mediterranean Spiced Lamb Kofta, Spanish Yukon Potato Croquettes and Warm Cheddar Parker House Rolls.
Our main courses were also delicious. Honey and I both chose the Sautéed Fish of the Day, while Whit went with the Tender Braised Beef with Cavatelli Pasta.
Carthay Circle Lounge
While I’ve dined in the Carthay Circle restaurant on every trip, I’ve only doe the Carthay Circle Al Fresco Dining once! The words “al fresco” are a bit misleading as you may be seated anywhere in the first floor lounge OR al fresco on the sidewalk patio.
Lounge service offers a seasonal menu of Mediterranean-California light fare, with flavorful dishes that can be shared or enjoyed separately.
I’d pick the restaurant over the lounge every time!
Let’s Travel & My Services
As a Premier Level Advisor with Glass Slipper Concierge, I am recognized for providing the highest level of customer service, experience, and knowledge in the industry. I use my personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke Disney trips for the most discerning clients. On top of that, Disney vacations are expensive and I know how to get the best value for your time and money. If you’re looking to travel to Disney any time in 2023, NOW is the time to plan!
Most aspects of planning a Disney vacation look different and now, more than ever, it is crucial to have the most current, up to date information based on personal experience to plan your vacation. I travel to the theme parks monthly and have stayed in every single resort from coast to coast! I tour the parks the way you will be touring the parks – whether it is a “best day ever” on VIP Tour, strategizing on Genie+, or waltzing onto attractions with Express Pass, you won’t find a travel advisor with more passion or first hand experience. Let’s go there!
