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Credit: DisneyJust one week after Disney debuted its first theme park Pirates of the Caribbean bar, it has introduced an unexpected new restriction.
Pirates of the Caribbean has long held an important role in the culture of Disney theme parks. The classic attraction, first opening at Disneyland in 1967, became a defining example of Disney’s storytelling and innovation. Its success later inspired the blockbuster film series starring Johnny Depp (whose character, Captain Jack Sparrow, was retrospectively integrated into the attraction), cementing its place as one of Disney’s most enduring franchises.
In August, Disney took the ride’s cult status to the next level with the debut of The Beak and Barrel opened on August 29 in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom. The pirate-themed lounge blends nautical décor with specialty cocktails – such as the Salty Seas mARRRgarita and the Siren’s Whisper – and immersive storytelling.
As is always the case for any new Magic Kingdom addition, anticipation was building for months ahead of the debut. Reservations were originally scheduled to open on August 14, but Disney’s system crashed almost immediately. Guests were left frustrated as the booking page failed to load, forcing Disney to postpone the release. The bar’s exclusivity has only amplified interest, with fans eager to secure one of the limited seats.
When reservations for The Beak and Barrel relaunched on August 20, demand was overwhelming. Availability disappeared within the first hour, especially for larger groups. The frenzy became one of Disney’s most chaotic dining reservation days in recent memory.
New Reservation Limit
Disney has now capped reservations at The Beak and Barrel to parties of eight or fewer.
Until recently, the system allowed bookings for groups as large as 20, though the largest table inside the venue only seats eight guests. A communal table remains available, but large group bookings are no longer permitted.
Guests booking through the My Disney Experience app or Disney’s website will no longer see options for groups over eight. The system still lists larger numbers, but they are flagged as unavailable. This move reflects Disney’s intent to simplify seating and avoid complicated large-group arrangements.
A Disney representative confirmed the update, clarifying that larger parties simply cannot be accommodated. Unlike many other restaurants where groups can be split across tables, The Beak and Barrel is not set up for oversized bookings. The change comes just weeks after the official opening.
What Else Is Changing at Disney World
Disney World is preparing for several other major updates alongside the launch of The Beak and Barrel. Cinderella Castle is set to undergo a fresh paint treatment, with new tones meant to restore some of its original classic look.
Tomorrowland’s Buzz Lightyear ride is also in the midst of a big refurbishment, with upgraded blasters and the debut of a new character named Buddy. The refreshed attraction is expected to debut in 2026. Meanwhile, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad is also receiving some long-awaited updates.
Animal Kingdom will soon welcome a new Zootopia 4D show, Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, which replaces It’s Tough to Be a Bug! in the Tree of Life theater. It will also replace DinoLand U.S.A. with a Tropical Americas land. Meanwhile, Magic Kingdom is preparing for a massive expansion with a Cars-themed land, plus a Disney Villains land.
At Hollywood Studios, a Monsters, Inc.–themed land is on the way. The project includes Disney’s first suspended roller coaster and comes after the closure of Muppet*Vision 3D earlier this year. Star Wars Launch Bay is also closing to make way for The Walt Disney Studios, inspired by the company’s property in Burbank.
Have you visited The Beak and Barrel yet?