Benvenutti a Portorosso! A few months ago, we shared with great joy the arrival of Luca in a new space entirely inspired by the beloved Pixar movie at Disneyland Paris. Today, we’re thrilled to share a peek at the newly opened area.
Set within Fantasyland, this new dining room is an extension of the popular Pizzeria Bella Notte Restaurant which serves as a true tribute to Italy with subtle nods to two classic Disney stories: “Lady and the Tramp” and “Fantasia.” Imagineers took the opportunity to extend the storytelling by evoking the seaside atmosphere and warmth of the Italian Riviera, allowing Disney and Pixar’s “Luca” to make a splash at the same time!
To ensure authenticity, Imagineers worked closely with Pixar artists on how to expand Luca’s world throughout the whole project. Together, they developed an exclusive artworkoriginal mural featuring the fan-favorite sea monster on the shores of Portorosso, as the true centrepiece for this new story.
The Walt Disney Imagineering Paris teams have drawn inspiration from workshops where fishermen repair their boats with a twist, as the inside area has been repurposed to welcome villagers, making it the perfect place to enjoy Italian specialties! Attention to detail is everywhere, with more than 60 props and accessories specifically created for this new space, all centered around the local fishing culture and cuisine. This of course includes all of Chef Massimo’s favorite pasta-making ingredients and cooking utensils! Guests will also spot the diving helmet used by Luca to win the Portorosso Cup race!
The nautical theme does not stop at the interior as it is also on display on the exterior façade. Be on the look-out, as several nods to “it’s a small world,” located just across the corner and reopening May 5, have been carefully crafted by Imagineers! Another fitting tribute to Mary Blair’s work is the floor mosaic in the original Pizzeria Bella Notte outside courtyard, which includes pieces of a long gone mural that she designed for Tomorrowland at Disneyland.
Grab your Vespa and visit Luca soon at Disneyland Paris!