The Grand Canyon Terrace, subsequently known as The Terrace Buffet and The Terrace Buffeteria, was one of the original dining venues at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, offering guests a casual yet elegant dining experience with breathtaking views of Bay Lake and the iconic Grand Canyon Concourse mural by Mary Blair. The restaurant served a variety of buffet-style meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, appealing to families and visitors who wanted a quick yet satisfying dining option while staying at the resort. Its prime location near the monorail and the open-air design made it a popular spot for guests looking to relax and enjoy the lively ambiance of the Contemporary.
Over time, the restaurant underwent a few changes, including its name and menu offerings, reflecting shifts in Disney dining trends. While initially offering more of a traditional buffet setup, it later evolved to include buffeteria-style service, where guests could choose from a range of prepared dishes, offering both convenience and quality. The Terrace’s flexible, family-friendly environment and scenic backdrop made it a cherished part of many visitors’ memories, though it was eventually replaced as part of ongoing renovations to the resort’s dining offerings.
At a Glance
- Disney Resort: Walt Disney World Resort
- Attraction Type: Disney Restaurants, Extinct Disney Attractions
- Year Opened: 1971
- Year Closed: 1989
- Replaced: Original Attraction
- Replaced By: The Concourse Grill
- Type of Restaurant: Buffet