On a sunny morning at the Disneyland Resort, Earl of Sandwich celebrated the grand opening of its permanent flagship location at Downtown Disney District. This marks the newest chapter for the restaurant, which has been a popular fixture in different Downtown Disney District locations for the last 14 years. The grand celebration was filled with British flags, royal descendants, and a special appearance by Disney royalty. It culminated with the 12th Earl of Sandwich cutting a ribbon before guests began to stream inside the beautiful new building.
Disneyland Resort Ambassador Michele Mary hosted the ceremony. “This new location for Earl of Sandwich is bigger, bolder, and more beautiful,” Michelle said to an enthusiastic crowd waiting to get inside for a sandwich. “I’ve been inside, and it is spectacular, with even more offerings than you can imagine.”
A Meaningful Collaboration
Michelle then welcomed Jason Smith, the Vice President of Disneyland Resort Hotels and Downtown Disney District. Smith echoed the Disneyland Ambassador’s excitement and highlighted the collaborative spirit that was a part of this project. He also shared that his go-to order is the fan-favorite Holiday Turkey. He also asserted that this grand opening is about looking forward.
Smith said, “What makes today especially meaningful is the collaboration behind it. Downtown Disney and Earl of Sandwich coming together with a shared love of great food, warm hospitality, and creating memorable moments for our guests.”
A Founder
Smith then invited the co-founder of the Earl of Sandwich, Robert Earl, up to the podium. Robert Earl noted that the Earl of Sandwich had been a beloved staple at the Downtown Disney District for 14 years and had inhabited multiple locations. He shared that the company is “ready to open our permanent permanent structure. We are just over the moon.”
Earl shared his excitement about how the location is a massive upgrade for the Earl of Sandwich. He also noted that there is more than just architecture that is new. The menu has also received an upgrade (while also keeping the guests’ wallets in mind). He added that their brand is highly focused on “maintaining our prices that are very, very competitive and attractive for a lot of people.”
Some of the new offerings that can be found at the new location include The Carvery, which elevates their sandwiches to a whole new level and results in the delicious Whole Roasted Pastrami sandwich. There are also “decadent but healthy” cookies, Robert Earl shared. He then quipped that the healthy part is marginal. On top of that, there is a new part of the restaurant that serves adult beverages.
The 12th Earl of Sandwich
One of the special things about the Earl of Sandwich is its legacy. While the company is a couple of decades old, it is steeped in tradition that dates back 260 years, when the 4th Earl of Sandwich famously invented the culinary staple. For this milestone event, the Right Honorable Luke Montagu, the 12th Earl of Sandwich, was on hand. After recounting the official story about the invention of the sandwich, he got a laugh when he shared that there is a rumor that it was actually invented so he could stay at the gambling tables.
Montagu also shared that his favorite menu item is the Hot Pastrami sandwich with its melted Swiss cheese and sauerkraut (Daps Magic has tried this and it was delicious!). This is a signature dish at this flagship location, and he shared that it had sustained him during his college years at Columbia University.
“8 Earls later, or 9 if you include Robert, I think we’ve now arrived at ‘Peak Sandwich,’” Montagu smiled as he congratulated “Robert and the team for the creation of this extraordinary restaurant and its unbelievably delicious menu. And thank you also to my late father and my brother Orlando, who were both co-founders with Robert of Earl of Sandwich.” He also thanked Disney and shared how his adult children were eager to meet Mickey Mouse, which would happen shortly. As he wrapped up his comments, he said: “I wish Earl of Sandwich every success in its new home.”
Ribbon Cutting
Moments later, Mickey Mouse made his way out to assist with the ribbon-cutting and add an extra dose of Disney magic to the ceremony. The large scissors were brought out, and as the ribbon was cut, celebratory music played and confetti shot into the air! After a few photos were taken, guests were invited to enter the new Earl of Sandwich location. This included guests who began to line up at 8:00 AM. The first 50 received a complimentary Earl of Sandwich meal.
Guests and media made their way inside Earl of Sandwich and enjoyed the many different flavors that can be found on the vibrant new digital menus. This includes a variety of sandwiches, incredible cookies (they are definitely a new hit!), and much-needed cool drinks on a warm day. There were plenty of smiles as people tasted the different menu offerings.
The opening of the permanent home of the Earl of Sandwich in Downtown Disney District is a welcome one for fans of The Happiest Place on Earth! This is an affordable restaurant, delicious, has options that will satisfy just about any group, and is in a lovely location. It is a great spot to enjoy after a day in the park or during an evening at the Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage. It also shares a building with the new Gordon Ramsay at The Carnaby, which is located upstairs.
What do you think of this new Earl of Sandwich flagship location? Have you experienced it yet? What is your favorite sandwich at this restaurant? Share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
