PHOTO BY PATRICK O'CONNOR - NOTE THE NOD TO "OUR FLAG MEANS DEATH" IF YOU'RE A NERD LIKE US
The Beak and Barrel (Website), Walt Disney World’s first-ever pirate-themed bar and lounge, is set to open on August 29, next to the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Magic Kingdom.
Inspired by the swashbuckling theme of the aforementioned ride, the new tavern features immersive detailing, shipwreck-inspired décor, and an imaginative backstory starring Captain Meridian “Merry” Goldwyn and her sharp-tongued parrot, Rummy, who hangs out over the skull-shaped bar. Check out our preview video below to see for yourself.
Guests who step inside are invited to explore three distinct rooms: The Mess, a communal hall adorned with a candlelit anchor chandelier; The Captain’s Quarters, where cozy booths glow in firelight alongside intricate ship-in-a-bottle displays; and The Mapmaker’s Room, a space where parchment scrolls and ink-stained maps conjure dreams of high-seas adventure. The experience is carefully timed, with each party granted a 45-minute stay, ensuring that waves of guests can cycle through the venue.
Drinks include the Plunderer’s Punch, served in a collectible skull mug, as well as the cheekily named Salty Seas mARRRgarita and a range of non-alcoholic options like Treasure Trove and Cursed Treasure.
The Beak and Barrel also marks a historic first. Since its opening in 1971, Magic Kingdom has long held to a booze-free tradition, only softening in 2012 to allow beer and wine in select restaurants. With the debut of this tavern, the park now welcomes its first standalone bar, signaling a shift toward more immersive dining and lounge concepts across the Disney property. The 45-minute time limit will help avoid any heavy-drinking tourists, too.
Advance reservations for The Beak and Barrel opened on August 14 and were met with such high demand that Disney’s booking system briefly stumbled under the traffic. Guests hoping to claim a seat are encouraged to use the My Disney Experience app and stay patient as slots open and disappear quickly.
