Missing Disneyland Italian Restaurant
 11/7/2004

By: Brianna Gerard
When it comes down to my favorite subject regarding Disneyland, the food, I find the theme park to be devoid of Italian! Technically speaking, I can name a couple: in DCA, they have Wine Country Trattoria (which isn’t the best, I’ve eaten there; it’s rather bland, but has an appealing patio setting), Downtown Disney has on-the-go Napolini Italian food (which I haven’t yet tried), and of course the traditional greasy, cheesy pizza in Tomorrowland’s Pizza Port. But where is the old-fashioned, sit-down and be served Italian restaurant? It’s inhumane I tell you! I always hope one day to be an Imagineer (don’t we all), so here is my go at a restaurant I believe Disneyland is sorely missing.

Tony’s Italiano Ristorante (based on none other than Lady and the Tramp)

  • Dark lighting, beautiful Italian glass lamps, checkered tablecloths, warm bread sitting on the tables, overall romantic feel, but great for the family!

  • Accordion and guitar-playing singers on weekends serenading guests while they dine

  • Commemorative cups with scenes from Lady and the Tramp printed on them

  • Menu to include great Italian favorites

    • Classic bowl of spaghetti (comes with meatballs and your choice of sauce)

    • Penne pasta with marinara sauce
    • Focaccia bread
    • Pasta Primavera
    • Tortellini, Ravioli, and other stuffed pastas
    • Chicken Alfredo
    • Pizza, etc…many other classic Italian dishes
    • The special kid’s menus for the little Lady and Tramp in all families (comes with your choice of “main dish”, applesauce, and animal cracker cookies!!)
    • Gelato ice cream
    • “Belle Notte” special dark chocolate mousse

Aaaah, sounds mouthwatering, doesn’t it? I’m sure there is an “empty space” in Disneyland waiting to be filled by this cozy restaurant.