Big River Grille Closing: Bids Farewell to Disney’s BoardWalk

Hey Disney foodies! It’s time to say goodbye to a familiar spot on Disney’s BoardWalk. Big River Grille & Brewing Works, a beloved staple for years, is closing its doors for good on January 21, 2024. It’s the end of an era for this cozy hangout, and I’m here to give you the scoop on what’s happening with Big River Grille closing.

Disney’s BoardWalk has been buzzing with changes lately, and Big River Grille is the latest to join the list of farewells. Just a few days from now, this popular spot will pour its last pint. The team there recently broke the news to their employees, marking the end of their journey.

Remember the days when Big River Grille and ESPN Club were the go-to spots for American eats and a lively bar atmosphere? They were almost like twins! But since ESPN Club closed its doors at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, things have been shifting. The ESPN spot is transforming into The Cake Bake Shop, adding a sweet twist to the BoardWalk.

The BoardWalk has been mixing things up with other recent changes too. Ample Hills Creamery turned into BoardWalk Ice Cream, and BoardWalk Bakery evolved into BoardWalk Deli. And hey, corn dog lovers, get ready! Later this year, Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs is set to open in the old BoardWalk To Go kiosk.

But what’s next for the Big River Grille spot? That’s the million-dollar question. Managed by a third party, not Disney staff, the future of this location is still up in the air. I’m not sure if Disney or the restaurant’s management decided to close it. Interestingly, Big River Grille wasn’t a top-rated spot at Disney World, much like the ESPN Club. It was a hit mainly with sports fans catching a game and convention-goers from nearby Swan and Dolphin.

The pandemic has reshaped the dining scene at the BoardWalk, and we’re left wondering if Disney might be planning to bring more of its own dining experiences to the area. With The Cake Bake Shop (run by a third party) taking over the ESPN Club’s spot, could this be a hint of Disney’s strategy?

While we wait to see what’s in store for the space, it’s rumored that Disney may bring in food trucks during busier times. At this time, this has not been confirmed by Disney.

So, as we bid farewell to Big River Grille, let’s remember the good times and stay tuned for what Disney has in store for this beloved BoardWalk space. Who knows what exciting new dining adventure awaits around the corner? Stay hungry, Disney foodies!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!