Episode #169: Beaches and Cream: Is Disney’s Beloved Soda Fountain Worth the Hype?

In our latest podcast episode, we dive deep into one of Disney’s most talked-about dining experiences: Beaches and Cream. Located at the Beach Club Resort, this retro soda fountain is renowned for its nostalgic ambiance and classic American menu, particularly its famed Kitchen Sink sundae. But does it live up to the hype? Our detailed review aims to answer this pressing question and offer a comprehensive look at what you can expect during your visit.

We kick off the episode with some exciting Disney merchandise news, highlighting a new Jungle Cruise-themed t-shirt that’s making waves among Disney fans. Priced at $29.99, this trendy tee features a hungry hippo and the words "True Life Adventure," capturing the essence of the beloved Jungle Cruise ride. As we transition from merchandise to dining, the spotlight shifts to Beaches and Cream, a restaurant that promises to evoke fond memories of old-fashioned soda shops and diners from the 1950s.

Beaches and Cream underwent a significant renovation in 2019, which expanded seating and improved reservation availability. This upgrade aimed to make the restaurant more accessible to Disney dining enthusiasts, who often find it challenging to secure a table. The expanded space retains the restaurant's nostalgic charm, with beach ball-bedecked booths and a classic jukebox that plays oldies, adding to the retro atmosphere.

Despite the high expectations set by its reputation, our dining experience at Beaches and Cream was underwhelming. Service was notably slow, and the food quality left much to be desired, especially when compared to other Disney dining options. We started our meal with standard American fare, including burgers and fries. The angus beef burger, priced at $22, was just fine—nothing spectacular. Similarly, the French dip sandwich and the cheddar bacon ranch chicken sandwich were adequate but not exceptional.

The desserts, often touted as the highlight of the Beaches and Cream experience, were a mixed bag. The Kitchen Sink sundae, a monstrous creation with eight scoops of ice cream and every topping imaginable, is a spectacle. However, its appeal diminishes quickly as the ice cream melts into a soupy mess. For those with a sweet tooth, the Snickers sundae and the No Way Jose sundae offer more manageable indulgences, but they still fall short of being must-try items.

One of the most significant disappointments was the cookie fries with dipping sauce. Despite the server's warning, we decided to try them, only to find that they tasted like cardboard with barely any hint of chocolate. This dish exemplifies the inconsistency in quality that we experienced throughout our meal.

In contrast, we found ourselves surprisingly impressed by alternatives like the ABC Commissary, which far exceeded our expectations. The buffalo grilled cheese sandwich at ABC Commissary was a standout, proving that you don't have to dine at a hyped restaurant to enjoy good food at Disney.

The service at Beaches and Cream also contributed to our lackluster experience. It took our server over ten minutes to acknowledge our table, and the overall meal duration extended to nearly an hour and a half. Such delays are particularly frustrating in a place where time is precious, and efficient service is expected.

Given these factors, we conclude that Beaches and Cream may not be worth a dining credit or a revisit, especially for those with limited time or high hopes for a spectacular experience. The restaurant's primary appeal lies in its theming and ambiance rather than its culinary offerings. If you are a big fan of retro diners and soda fountains, a visit to Beaches and Cream might still be worthwhile. However, for those seeking high-quality food and efficient service, other Disney dining options offer better value and experience.

In summary, while Beaches and Cream has its nostalgic charm and a few noteworthy desserts, it ultimately falls short of its sky-high reputation. Our honest review aims to help you make an informed decision about whether to include this spot in your Disney dining itinerary. As always, we encourage you to weigh your options and consider what aspects of a dining experience are most important to you before making a reservation.

Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue to explore Disney dining, merchandise, and experiences, helping you make the most of your magical adventures.