In addition to changes taking place in Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom owing to the Fantasyland expansion, at least one counter service restaurant is getting a makeover as well. The often closed, always elusive El Pirata y El Perico has been re-christened the Tortuga Tavern.
Located directly across from Pirates of the Caribbean, the spot is perhaps best known for the dubious distinction of hardly ever being opened. Indeed, most fans count themselves in the minority of Disney visitors if they’ve ever taken a meal here. This is due to the fact that the eatery is most often open during the busiest times of the year to accomadate big crowds.
Though the name has changed, at present, the menu appears to be exactly the same: mostly Mexican-inspired food such as tacos and taco salads, nachos, and burritos. There have been rumors that the menu may be updated in the near future, but we’ll have to see. The decor has been freshened a bit to reflect the connection between the Tavern and Pirates of the Caribbean.
As for the name, it seems to be inspired by the wildly popular Pirates of the Caribbean films. Tortuga is, after all, the lawless island in the Caribbean where Captain Jack frequently visits in order to recruit crews, plot and plan, drink, find pleasant company, and, well, generally unwind between exploits.
We’ll keep an eye on this location to see if any further changes are made. With the fourth Pirates film, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” due out in May, there just may be more to come where this restaurant is concerned.
