Theme Park Scope

Disney just confirmed one of the most anticipated details about its upcoming Monsters, Inc. land.

As construction continues on the future Monstropolis at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney has officially revealed the first restaurant coming to the new land, and Pixar fans are going to recognize the name immediately.

Disney confirmed that Harryhausen’s, the iconic restaurant from Monsters, Inc., will be part of the new land currently under construction at Walt Disney World. The announcement marks the first dining location officially revealed for Monstropolis and gives fans a better idea of what they’ll be able to experience when the land opens.

For longtime Pixar fans, Harryhausen’s is one of the most memorable locations from the original 2001 film. The monster-world restaurant serves as the setting for Mike Wazowski and Celia Mae’s birthday dinner before Boo’s arrival sends the restaurant into chaos and triggers one of the movie’s most memorable sequences.

While Disney has not yet revealed menu details or dining style information, the company specifically highlighted Harryhausen’s as one of the “iconic destinations” guests will be able to visit inside Monstropolis.

The restaurant has been heavily rumored since Monstropolis was first announced, with concept art and construction activity suggesting the former location of Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano would be transformed into the Monsters, Inc.-inspired dining venue. Disney’s latest announcement is the first official confirmation that Harryhausen’s is indeed coming to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

The dining location joins a growing list of confirmed experiences coming to Monstropolis, including Disney’s first-ever suspended roller coaster themed to the famous door vault sequence from the film. Guests will also be able to explore the city of Monstropolis itself, visit the Glob Theater, meet monster residents, and experience a storyline centered around “H.U.M.A.N. Day” — short for “Humans Understand Monsters Are Nice.”

According to Disney, Monstropolis will allow guests to step directly into the monster world after the events of the film, when laughter has replaced screams as the city’s primary source of power. The new land is being designed as a fully realized city complete with recognizable locations, vibrant streets, shops, entertainment, and attractions.

Disney has not yet announced an opening date for Monstropolis, but with construction continuing to accelerate and major details beginning to emerge, excitement is building for what could become one of the most immersive lands ever added to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

We’ll continue monitoring Monstropolis construction, Harryhausen’s restaurant updates, attraction announcements, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios expansion plans. Be sure to check back with Theme Park Scope for the latest Disney Parks news, construction updates, and vacation planning information.