Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

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Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The highly anticipated new table service restaurant, Jaleo by José Andrés, is now open in Disney Springs. We attended the grand opening party last night and were treated to an evening of upscale ambiance, delicious tastes of Spanish cuisine, and even an appearance by Chef José himself!

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The fifth – and largest, to date – Jaleo location spared no expense on design. A vibrant color palette sets a festive mood, with a two story wall mural of a matador accenting the main bar.


Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The upstairs level, which can be accessed via the grand staircase or an elevator, features another bar, but also several smaller private rooms for larger parties. Outdoor seating is available on both levels.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The Grand Opening party was a reflection of the superb hospitality one can expect from Jaleo, with staff waiting to greet guests at the door with trays of Sangria, Spanish wines, and other featured cocktails.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Once inside the main area, we were transported to a different part of Spain with every bite being served, from endives with oranges and goat cheese, to, my personal favorite, chicken croquetas, served on a tray resembling a tasseled cushion.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The headliner at Jaleo’s, however, is the Paella. Three different varieties are made daily, and will rotate in selection. A cowbell alerts patrons each time a new batch is finished, followed by the staff shouting “Paella!” adding to the fun and upbeat vibe.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Seafood is a Spanish staple, and in abundance. An oyster bar, as well as sea urchin topped flat breads were some fan favorites of the night.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

The party really got going when the man of the evening, celebrity Chef José Andrés (who coins himself not a cook, but rather a storyteller) was welcomed, and he gave an emotional speech. Most noteworthy was the story he told about how he had  visited Disney World as a young boy and wondered why there were no restaurants offering Spanish fare and said he put it on his wall to bring Spanish food to Disney.  “Thank you for helping my little dream of bringing a piece of Spain, that always belonged, to Florida,” José went on to say.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Dessert soon followed as Chef José mingled with guests. Flan with a citrus twist was the hot item, creamy and tangy, it did not disappoint.

Grand Opening of Jaleo by José Andrés at Disney Springs

Jaleo is open for dinner from 5 pm to 11 pm (midnight Fridays and Saturdays), you will want to add Jaleo’s to your must-visit list, as it lives up to the hype.

 


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Nicole is a WDW Local Correspondent for Chip and Co. and spends more days than not in the parks. Wife, mom of 2, and enthusiastic dog mom (yes, she puts Mickey Ears on them), Nicole lives only 15 minutes from Main Gate and has been a lifelong lover of Disney, dogs, and donuts. Travel, photography, and art round out her hobbies. Having lived abroad for much of her earlier life, however, she spent vacations in Disneyland Paris back when it was still Euro Disney and she can also say all of the above in German (and hence has a degree in Foreign Language Education).
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