This December, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort will debut its newest addition, the Island Tower—a major expansion of the iconic resort. The opening, scheduled for December 17th, marks an exciting but controversial chapter for the resort, as the new tower's design has sparked mixed reactions among Disney fans. Despite the debate over its appearance, one thing is certain: the Island Tower is set to change the landscape of one of Disney World’s original hotels.
As part of the Island Tower expansion, Disney is also introducing a brand-new dining experience: the Wailulu Bar & Grill. The restaurant’s name combines the Hawaiian words wai (meaning "water") and lulu (meaning "calm"), which reflects the peaceful, serene atmosphere guests can expect when they dine there.
Stunning Views and Polynesian-Inspired Design
The Wailulu Bar & Grill promises breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy the scenery. The space will be adorned with beautiful Polynesian-inspired artwork, much of it crafted from recycled materials and reclaimed fishing nets. In the center of the dining room, an abstract representation of the ancient Polynesian "Stick Chart"—a navigational tool used by early Polynesian explorers—will be displayed, adding a cultural touch to the space.
Concept art also hints at an impressive bar area that offers stunning views of Cinderella Castle and Magic Kingdom, giving diners a chance to enjoy cocktails and bites while soaking in the iconic Disney view.
A Controversial Expansion
While the Island Tower expansion brings new amenities and experiences to the Polynesian Village Resort, it has also sparked some controversy, particularly regarding its design. Many Disney fans have voiced concerns about the tower's modern, somewhat “generic” look, which some feel clashes with the intricate, tropical theming of the rest of the resort. Disney has defended the design, stating that it draws inspiration from early concept art for the Polynesian Resort from the 1960s. However, critics argue that the result doesn’t fully align with the resort’s established aesthetic.
What’s Next for Wailulu Bar & Grill
As of mid-November 2024, there is still no official menu available for the Wailulu Bar & Grill, but Disney has confirmed that the restaurant will open alongside the Island Tower on December 17th. We’ll be keeping an eye out for more details on the menu and the dining experience, so stay tuned for updates!
For now, Wailulu joins the list of exciting new offerings at the Polynesian Village Resort, making it a must-visit destination when the Island Tower opens this winter.
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