Disney fans and tea enthusiasts finally have a date to mark on their calendars. After a long-awaited hiatus, the Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience is officially set to reopen its doors at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa on March 19, 2026.
The beloved tradition returns with a fresh, whimsical makeover inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Alice in Wonderland. From the refined atmosphere to the curated menu, the experience promises to transport guests “down the rabbit hole” for an afternoon of elegance and charm.
A New Menu for Every Palate
The reopening brings an entirely refreshed menu that blends classic British tradition with playful Disney storytelling. The journey begins with a selection of premium Twinings loose-leaf teas, including exclusive blends like the Orangery of Lady Grey—a bright black tea with citrus notes found only at Walt Disney World Resort. For those seeking something indulgent, the Nutty Chocolate Flavoured Assam offers a praline-like finish of roasted hazelnut and smooth chocolate.
The food offerings are equally enchanting, presented across a three-tier tower:
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Savory Selections: Guests can enjoy creative bites like the Caterpillar Cucumber Roll with butterfly pea cream cheese on pumpernickel and the Tweedledee Egg Salad Sandwich served on vibrant beet bread.
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The Scone Course: Every experience includes an Orange-Cranberry Scone served with traditional double cream, lemon curd, and strawberry jam.
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Whimsical Sweets: The dessert finale includes the Matcha Mad Hatter sponge cake and a “Painting the Rose” Earl Grey teacake that is expertly finished tableside.
Magic for the Whole Family
The Garden View Lounge remains a family-friendly destination. A dedicated Children’s Afternoon Tea menu features kid-approved favorites like the Queen of Hearts Cheese Toastie and the Cheshire Cat Raspberry Macaron. Younger guests can even enjoy “dark tea” (chocolate milk) or their own caffeine-free herbal selections.
For adults looking to elevate the occasion, the menu also offers enhancements such as a Seasonal Cheese Selection or Royal Osetra Caviar with mini chive biscuits.
How to Book
If history is any indication, this will be one of the most sought-after reservations at Walt Disney World. For those planning a spring visit, reservations will officially open on February 19, 2026. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a peaceful escape from the park crowds, the return of tea service at the Grand Floridian is sure to be the “golden afternoon” guests have been waiting for.
Clint Gamache is the owner of ThrillGeek. He started ThrillGeek to share his love of theme/amusement parks and pop culture with the world. You can find him at Halloween Horror Nights. Also, be sure to follow him on Twitter/X, Instagram @iamcg83