When it opens in December of this year, Disney’s Riviera Resort will be the 15th Disney Vacation Club property and will immerse guests in the grandeur and enchantment of the European Riviera. Each detail is drawn from the magic of Europe and the Mediterranean that Walt Disney fell in love with once upon a time.
My visit to the Disney Vacation Club Preview Center yesterday gave me a chance to see not only the model of this upcoming resort but also a chance to take a tour of model rooms. Having stayed at almost all of the Disney Resorts at Walt Disney World over the years, I have to say this new resort looks to take things to the next level. With new room types, well-themed (but not over- themed) restaurants, and just a beautiful design, Disney’s Riviera may just become the new go-to resort when visiting the parks.
The overall property sounds amazing, but the room was by far one of my favorite parts of this upcoming resort. With the new changes to the bedding and the amazing art in the rooms, it will at least add a few more minutes of room time.
Another thing I am looking forward to trying first hand are the different dining options across the resort.
Disney’s Riviera Resort will feature many ways for guests to dine, from signature dining experiences to quick service options within the resort and poolside.
Topolino's Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera – A signature rooftop dining experience with stunning views that draws inspiration from the cliffside restaurants along the European Riviera. The restaurant takes its name from the Italian word for Mickey Mouse, “Topolino.”
Authentic dishes infused with French and Italian flavors will be offered, with an onstage kitchen featuring a wood-burning grill showcasing finely prepared meats and seafood. The culinary team will handcraft artisanal pastas tossed with fresh-pressed olive oil and a gourmet selection of cheeses from France and Italy.
The restaurant will offer an impressive collection of wines sourced throughout the South of France and Coastal Italy. Mixologists will be shaking cocktails featuring citrus, delicious figs and vanilla tones. A variety of handcrafted Mediterranean-infused limoncellos will be poured.
Guests can dine indoors and then step out onto the terrace for a grand view of the resort’s stunning vistas and perhaps enjoy the fireworks of the nearby nighttime spectaculars at Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Breakfast at Topolino’s Terrace will be a Storybook Dining experience – a prix-fixe Disney character dining experience, inspired by the Riviera.
Le Petit Café – An inviting lobby café offering freshly brewed coffees and lattes. As the sun sets, the café becomes a wine bar, serving a selection of wines, sparkling beverages and desserts.
Bar Riva – A poolside bar serving European- and Mediterranean-style fare, cocktails and refreshing drinks made to order.
Primo Piatto – A quick service trattoria serving tasty cuisine throughout the day and bites to grab and go.
After the tour, we had the opportunity to sit down with some of the chiefs and the art director for the resort to talk about what we can expect in December when Disney’s Riviera Resort opens to the public.
For Disney Vacation Club Members ready to purchase vacation points at Disney’s Riviera Resort, there is a special introductory offer available at DisneyVacationClub.com/RivieraWelcomeOffer, or by calling 855-883-0181. Guests can contact 407-W-Disney (934-7639) to make reservations for the new Disney’s Riviera Resort.