As concerns mount over the affordability of Disney’s theme parks, a cheaper dining alternative has been introduced in Florida.
While visiting Walt Disney World Resort has never been cheap, the parks have become increasingly expensive in recent years. Since COVID-19, we’ve seen price increases hit everything from Mickey ears and ice cream to hotel rooms, annual passes, and price tickets.
Even Disney is concerned about the impact of these price increases. As per a report from The Wall Street Journal in February, some employees worry that the company has become “addicted to price hikes” and hit the limit of what middle-class Americans can actually afford. There have also apparently been more frequent internal discussions addressing the question of whether Disney is “losing their grip on the hearts and wallets of families with young kids.”
(If only there was something Disney could do about that…)
Despite these reports, it’s rare to hear reports of Disney reducing prices and offering more affordable options lately. That’s why the latest news from EPCOT is such a surprise.
Disney Introduces Cheaper Alternative at EPCOT
Walt Disney World Resort has introduced a more affordable option for one of EPCOT’s priciest experiences, Takumi-Tei.
Located in World Showcase’s Japan Pavilion, Takumi-Tei offers a creative dining experience with prix fixe courses. This includes two omakase (which means “leave it up to the chef”) menus: Kiku – The Omnivorous Course, and Hasu – The Plant-based Course, both of which span seven courses and start at $250.
Now, however, guests can enjoy a smaller menu for a fraction of the cost.
The “semi” omakase menu includes four courses, available once again as both omnivorous (by which we mean there will be meat or seafood) and plant-based and priced at $150. It’s still expensive, yes, but it does make the indulgent dining experience more accessible to a larger group of guests.
As per the Walt Disney World Resort website, the new menu will feature smaller portions of the same or similar offerings as the full omakase menu. While the food itself varies by the day, selections may include dishes such as sashimi, hassun, inaniwa udon noodles, deep-fried tofu, mini zucchini tempura, and more. “Each flavor is a delight for the palate, and anticipation of the chef’s choices is a major component of the experience,” the website claims.
For those looking for a more private experience, Takumi-Tei (which means “House of the Artisan” in Japanese) also offers the Water Room. This private dining area features a flowing waterfall and is available to a maximum of eight guests in a single party.
As a Disney Signature Dining Experience, it’s worth noting that whatever option guests opt for at Takumi-Tei, they are expected to dress slightly smarter than at the majority of Disney restaurants. This means wearing outfits that “adhere to the restaurant’s sophisticated and upscale aesthetic.”
Have you ever visited Takumi-Tei?
The post Disney Introduces Cheaper Alternative After Admitting Parks Are Too Expensive appeared first on Inside the Magic.
