Disney Locks All Paying Guests From Theme Park Hot Spot, Erases Existence as of Today

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is no stranger to change, but some closures hit a little harder than others. If you were hoping to grab one last plate of spaghetti at Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, we’ve got some bad news: the cozy little spot has officially served its final meal.

While it’s not as headline-grabbing as a new ride announcement, the quiet shuttering of Mama Melrose’s signals a bigger shift that’s already underway at the park—and if you’re a fan of the Muppets or old-school Disney charm, you may want to prepare yourself.

The Park That Used to Be

Back when Hollywood Studios first opened in 1989—then called Disney-MGM Studios—it was all about paying tribute to Hollywood’s golden age. You weren’t just going on rides; you were exploring soundstages, wandering studio backlots, and diving into the world of film production. It was part theme park, part working studio, with hits like the Backlot Tour and The Great Movie Ride anchoring the experience.

That identity has slowly been replaced. These days, the park leans hard into big franchises like Star Wars and Toy Story, with immersive lands and blockbuster rides stealing the spotlight. In many ways, the heart of Hollywood Studios has shifted from history to hype.

Goodbye, Mama

Tucked away near Grand Avenue, Mama Melrose’s was a holdover from the park’s earlier days. It didn’t scream for attention, but that was part of its charm. Dimly lit and warmly decorated, it was a go-to for guests looking for solid Italian food without the chaos of some of the park’s busier dining spots.

After dinner service on May 10, the restaurant quietly closed. By the next morning, the menu was gone from its familiar display case, and the building sat dark and still. No lights. No music. Just a closed door where a hidden gem once welcomed families.

A Monster Move

So what’s replacing it? That’s where things get interesting.

Mama Melrose’s is the first confirmed location to close as part of the rumored (but heavily implied) Monsters Inc. expansion. It’s believed this entire corner of the park is getting a major makeover. Next up on the chopping block: MuppetVision 3D and PizzeRizzo, both of which will shut down after June 7.

However, the Muppets aren’t exiting the scene completely. Word is they’ll be the ones taking over Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster in the future, giving the aging ride a new storyline and theme. Disney hasn’t revealed when the Aerosmith-themed coaster will go down for its update, but the clock is ticking.

A New Hollywood (Whether We Like It or Not)

Hollywood Studios has changed before, and it’ll change again. For many guests, the focus on immersive IP lands is exactly what they want. But for longtime fans, the slow fade-out of the park’s original soul—its movie magic roots—is starting to sting.

With Mama Melrose’s gone and more changes coming fast, it’s becoming clear: the old Hollywood Studios isn’t coming back. What’s replacing it might be bigger and flashier, but for some of us, those quiet corners and nostalgic spots were the real stars of the show.