October 27, 2008

Tahitian Getaway

Oh, the lure of the islands!

During the 50s and 60s, the United States entered a life-long love affair with places tropical, particularly Hawaii and the South Pacific. The Imagineers were no different, and The Enchanted Tiki Room soon made its debut at Disneyland.

Shortly afterward, the wonderful Tahitian Terrace restaurant staked its claim on Adventureland soil. It quickly became one of my favorite places to hang out and enjoy a meal. Back when the park was much less crowded, dining here seemed as if I was a million miles away from the California freeways. The food was still fairly foreign and a draw all its own. But it was the stage show that was truly enchanting. From dancers fire to hula, the performers brought an island magic to land-locked Anaheim for many years. Sadly, one day it closed and became yet another character attraction.

When Matt Ouimet was on board at the company, word leaked out he had a soft spot for the place, too. Rumors come and go that the place may one day reopen. Wouldn't that be great- bringing back some charm for evening dining at the park that now seems restricted to just New Orleans Square. Enchanting indeed!

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)

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