Club 33

Photos + Insider Look by Tram Tran

When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionably.

– Walt Disney

 

Somewhere between Fantasy and Reality …

[dropcap letter=”F”]or those lucky enough to have heard of Club 33, you know that this is an Invitation, Members-Only club tucked away behind a secret door. Where is this mysterious door you ask? Just above Cafe Orleans and the French Market at Disneyland. Club 33 was created by Walt Disney himself as an exclusive Members Only club only a select few are permitted to go. We were among the rare people to experience Club 33 and we wanted to share it with you. With one of the most phenomenal 5-Star restaurants in the world, a chef whose take on cuisine is nothing short of sublime, the menu is one to long for. Serving gourmet dishes from highly trained servers and hosts, Club 33 has served US Presidents, international dignitaries, actors, business leaders from around the globe, and happy diners like us. This unique Disney sanctuary was conceptualized and brought to life by Walt himself.

Club 33 opened its doors in 1967 as a place Walt and his wife, Lillian, could entertain important and often, globally elite, guests. The décor consists of 19th Century inspired pieces with a garnet red staircase to welcome guests upon entering or a Parisian-inspired elevator Walt and Lillian modeled after one they fell in love with when in France. With a menu that can only be described as decadent, including being the only place in Disneyland that serves wine and cocktails, it’s no wonder the wait list for the abundant $25,000 a year Membership is in the range of 14 years. Really. Limited to only 500 Members, it’s safe to say Club 33 is a place you can only dream of going … or simply wait to see what happens in 14 years. For now, we suggest making friends with Members or salivating over some of the dishes we were proud to partake of. Trust me, we’re dreaming of the day we can all go back …