There is an exclusive restaurant at Disneyland in California that every Disney fan dreams of going to. This place is called Club 33. If you have not heard of Club 33 than sit back and enjoy this journey.
Club 33 opened in May 1967. The club is located at the address of Club 33, Royal Street, New Orleans Square, Disneyland. Walt Disney felt that he needed a special where he could meet with dignitaries and others in quiet. He made sure the atmosphere was serene and the cuisine was superb and there would be distinctive decor. Walt asked artists Dorothea Redmond to provide watercolor rendering of what such a place just might look like. Walt and his wife Lillian traveled to New Orleans with decorator Emil Kuri to select antiques that would be on display. Even though Club 33 opened up in 1967 Walt would never get to see it finished as he died five months before it opened.
Club 33 has two dining rooms and several adjoining areas, all of these areas house antiques and original works of art. The Main Dining Room is decorated in First Empire, or the recalling of the era of Napoleon and the early nineteenth century. The second dining room is the Trophy Room and offers more of an informal atmosphere. The room has cypress planked walls and sketches for the Jungle Cruise and Tiki Room attractions.
Club 33 is a functioning exclusive private club where members and/or their guests may enjoy a gourmet meal and fine wines. The tradition also incorporates gracious hospitality that has been a staple since the opening day. There is a fee however to get a membership at Club 33. There is a $25,000 initiation fee per person and a $10,000 a year due. As of last spring there is currently an 800 person waiting list, so its no wonder that celebrities are among some of the members.
The membership does have some perks! You get access to the club for you and guests plus you get to go into the brand new 1901 lounge that is located at Disney's California Adventure. You have itinerary planning and valet parking. A Club 33 member answered questions on Reddit and said that he has gotten upgrades on a Disney cruise because he was a member. He has also gotten behind the scene tours of Disneyland attractions. But your membership does not include any meals. Meals can cost around $150 not including alcohol and you must book your reservations months in advance.
This is one of the original Club 33 membership brochures.
The entrance to the famous Club 33.
A look at one of the dining rooms.
A look at one of Club 33's menus.
Club 33's dinner menus.
