In a special soft opening, Walt Disney World opened the doors to Gaston’s Tavern for the first time this morning, allowing guests to enjoy the new food and drinks served there while taking in its unique atmosphere. The new establishment is part of the “Beauty and the Beast” area of New Fantasyland, which began an unannounced preview phase today.
Gaston’s Tavern is named for that famously pompous “Beauty and the Beast” character, who is represented in the park in a can’t-miss centerpiece of Belle’s Village – a fountain featuring his likeness atop his sidekick LeFou’s back.
Video: Tour Gaston’s Tavern in New Fantasyland
And Gaston’s Tavern wouldn’t be complete without Gaston himself, now making daily meet-and-greet appearances in the Magic Kingdom for the first time, with hilarious results.
Video: Meet and greet with Gaston outside his tavern and fountain in New Fantasyland
The tavern itself is equally egotistical, with details taken straight from the classic animated Disney film, down to the antlers that line its walls.
But while the tavern’s detailed decor is well worth exploring, most guests who venture inside will be looking for refreshments, especially the signature drink called LeFou’s Brew. A recipe borrowed from Cars Land, this tasty concoction is the same as Red’s Apple Freeze at the Cozy Cone, a cold combination of frozen apple juice with flavors of toasted marshmallow and a generous squirt of passion fruit-mango foam on top. Here it’s served souvenir steins and goblets.
Related: VIDEO: Gaston’s Tavern with LeFou’s Brew in New Fantasyland at Walt Disney World
Beyond that delicious drink, the tavern also serves up warm and gooey cinnamon rolls and savory pork shanks, more unique items on this menu.
Related: Disney Recipe: Make Gaston’s Famous Cinnamon Rolls At Home
Gaston’s Tavern is sure to bring big crowds, not only to explore the familiar “Beauty and the Beast” location but also to enjoy these unique treats, just one of the many offerings of New Fantasyland, which will have its official grand opening on December 6, 2012, preceded by a number of preview phases, the largest of which will begin on November 19. Until those dates, Gaston’s Tavern may or may not be open and operating on any given day.