Hey Disney Vacationers! Big news for Disney foodies: Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina is coming to the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin, and it’s a serious upgrade.
If you’ve eaten at Shula’s Steakhouse before, you know it’s been a longtime staple inside the Dolphin Hotel. But change is coming. Shula’s will officially close on June 14, 2025, and Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina will take its place with a mid-summer debut.
Let’s get straight to it—what does this mean for you?
Why You Should Care About Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina
This isn’t just another steakhouse. It’s the tenth Bourbon Steak location nationwide and the third in Florida, and it’s run by James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Mina. If you’ve been to his restaurants in Miami or Delray Beach, you already know the standard is high.
Chef Mina is known for elevating steakhouse classics. The menu will focus on:
- Premium cuts of beef
- High-quality seafood
- Modern cooking techniques
- Global flavors
Everything is built around the product, the technique, and clean presentation. No fluff—just seriously good food.
According to Chef Mina, the Swan and Dolphin’s “strong culinary program and commitment to quality” made it the perfect fit. He also said, “Each Bourbon Steak is uniquely designed to represent the environment it is in.” That tells me the Orlando location will bring something new to the table—literally.
What’s Happening to Shula’s Steakhouse?
Shula’s has been around for a long time, but it’s ready for retirement. It will stay open through June 14, 2025, so if you’re a fan of The SHULA CUT® or the 1972 Miami Dolphins theme, you still have time to grab one last meal.
After that, it’s out with the old and in with the very new.
How This Ties into the Bigger Picture
This isn’t just about a new steakhouse. Back in October 2024, the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin announced a $275 million expansion project. That includes:
- Updated guest rooms
- More conference space
- A general refresh of the resort
So it makes total sense they’re updating the food game, too. Bringing in Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina aligns with the modern, high-end vision they’re building.
What Else Can You Eat at the Swan & Dolphin?
While you wait for Bourbon Steak to open, you’ve got 22 other dining options across the Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels. Here’s a quick look at your current options:
Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Dining Style | Hotel |
---|---|---|---|
Shula’s Steak House | Steakhouse | Fine Dining | Dolphin |
Todd English’s Bluezoo | Seafood | Fine Dining | Dolphin |
Il Mulino New York Trattoria | Italian | Fine Dining | Swan |
Kimonos | Sushi | Fine Dining | Swan |
Rosa Mexicano | Mexican | Fine Dining | Dolphin |
Amare | Mediterranean | Fine Dining | Swan Reserve |
Garden Grove | American Buffet | Casual Dining | Swan |
The Fountain | Diner | Casual Dining | Dolphin |
Cabana Bar and Beach Club | Poolside | Casual Dining | Dolphin |
Splash Pool Bar and Grill | Poolside | Casual Dining | Swan |
Tangerine | Poolside | Casual Dining | Swan Reserve |
Fuel | Grab-and-Go | Quick Service | Dolphin |
Java | Coffee | Quick Service | Swan |
Chill | Frozen Drinks | Quick Service | Swan |
Grounds | Coffee | Quick Service | Swan Reserve |
Shula’s Lounge | Cocktails | Lounge | Dolphin |
Bluezoo Lounge | Cocktails | Lounge | Dolphin |
Il Mulino Lounge | Cocktails | Lounge | Swan |
Kimonos Lounge | Cocktails | Lounge | Swan |
Phins | Cocktails | Lounge | Dolphin |
Stir | Cocktails | Lounge | Swan Reserve |
So yeah, you’re not going hungry.
Final Thoughts
Bourbon Steak by Michael Mina isn’t just a new restaurant. It’s a signal that the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin is stepping into a new era—bigger, bolder, and better. If you love premium steaks, creative seafood, and high-end service, this is something to get excited about.
I’ll be there when the doors open. And trust me, you’ll want to be too.
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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!
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