The recent update at Disney California Adventure brought us Pixar Pier. Eye popping details abound, but to me, the best of the best of the re-do is the all new Lamplight Lounge.
Located where Ariel's Grotto and the Cove Bar used to be, on the bridge to the Pier area, this new space has been plussed Pixar to nth degree.
Lamplight, of course, refers to that much beloved symbol of Pixar, Luxo the lamp, with plenty of the signature Pixar ball logo tossed in.
The outside is rather unassuming and still fits in with the sort of turn of the century seaside boardwalk vibe of before. Once you enter, it's Pixar Pixar everywhere.
Every nook, cranny, wall, and space has lovely and often heart tugging Pixar memories.
Not just a space to gawk, the lounge is a gastro pub with seating upstairs and down, plus seating outside placing you right over the water with a great view of the Incredicoaster and Pixar Pal Around (formerly California Screamin, and Mickey's Wheel of Death..er Mickey's Fun Wheel).
The menu offers Bites and Bigger Bites. Note that the Bigger Bites, which are standard and a bit boring looking regular meals, are only available to order downstairs. Luckily the Bites can be ordered anywhere.
Sitting outside on comfy couches with that wonderful view, is ideal. Several of the small plates are appealing and the Cove Bar's beloved Lobster Nachos being offered is a relief to the fans of this dish. Not a big (or even little) seafood fan, I had no interest in this dish before or currently. The Potato Skins, however, sounded delicious,. They aren't really skins, more of a smashed croquette type of thing, and served with two sauces smeared on the plate. They could give you more sauce in my opinion. However, this was a great snack serving, and I'll get it again.
Rounding off my healthy meal at the Lounge, I tried their only dessert, which are mini doughnuts served with two sauces; chocolate and raspberry. Delicious!
The highlight is not the food, it's the drinks. The drink menu itself is a delight. Full of art and clever beverage offerings, give yourself time to look at every page.
It was very hard to choose one drink, but I settled on the Scream Canister. Excellent choice! I wish I'd had two. I'm glad I got a picture of the ingredients to maybe duplicate this refreshing treat at home, but I can't duplicate the ambience of the location, so may not try.
Let's talk Coasters. I see a new collectible.
Moving on to restrooms. Even if you don't need to go, go. Along the wall are Pixar focused sayings, and the Incredibles welcome you to the facilities. Surprisingly, inside the actual restrooms the decor is standard and boring after being immersed in the Pixar-ness everywhere else.
No matter where you are seated. before you leave take time to explore the artwork, the touches big and small everywhere you look, and the amazing chandelier which is made up of sketches. There's also a private dining room, but I didn't get a look this time.
You'll note I said 'this time'. I will return again and again. The entire package is a delight and a worthy showpiece of the new Pixar Pier area.
Well done Imagineers!
