Walt Disney World's 'Roundup Rodeo BBQ' Serves Tasty Western Fare

May 09, 2023

In the summer of 2018, Walt Disney World significantly expanded its Disney Hollywood Studios park with Toy Story Land. Based on the beloved Pixar film franchise, the whimsical, heavily themed area puts patrons in the role of "honorary toys" visiting Andy's backyard. The clever illusion is sold via oversized items and props -- from larger-than-life Tinkertoy creations to towering stacks of Jenga blocks -- that make guests feel tiny by comparison.

The immersive land recently built on this clever concept -- while inviting visitors to dig into delicious family-style fare -- with a brand new restaurant. Dubbed "Roundup Rodeo BBQ," the "Toy Story"-themed eatery expands Andy's domain into a table service establishment where guests can take a break and grab some grub but still feel about the size of the series' plastic green army men.

As its name suggests, the restaurant has a playful rodeo theme, but one that's been crafted by a young boy with a vivid imagination. It's detailed, vibrant and absolutely brimming with Easter eggs, call-outs and nods to Woody, Buzz and the rest of the "Toy Story" gang. And its atmosphere offers a creative collision of fan service and the land's overarching concept that guests are playthings in Andy's world.

Hasbro

Giant chess pawns, cards and other board game pieces combine with lots of paper cutouts and plenty of crayon art to create Andy's makeshift rodeo. Fan-favorite supporting characters, such as Bo Beep and Jessie, are featured prominently, while oversized takes on classic games -- such as dice, playing cards and Barrel of Monkeys' plastic primates -- fill in the details. Other cool touches include an entire wall made of constructed puzzle pieces, massive pencils supporting equally large segments of a wooden train track, and giant dominoes serving as benches in the waiting area.

The attention to detail and immersive theming also extends to the dining experience, where bone china dinnerware has been made to look like the disposable white paper plates you'd use at a cookout. Cowboy hat-wearing servers enthusiastically exclaim "Reach for the sides!" -- a fun nod to one of Woody's most famous lines -- and fully play along with the illusion that Andy could crash the party at any time.

The latter actually happens at least once during your dinner or lunch via a booming audio effect mimicking the boy's arrival. Servers will shout "Andy's coming!" and instruct everyone to freeze in place -- even if you're about to bring a forkful of mac and cheese to your mouth -- before you hear him entering the room and calling for his mom as he digs through a toy box searching for his lost cowboy belt buckle. It's a fun moment made all the better by the dedicated cast of in-character servers.

Disney

Of course, while the playful atmosphere and entertaining shenanigans will plaster a wide smile on any "Toy Story" fan's face, hungry guests will also be looking to quiet their growling stomachs. Thankfully, Roundup Rodeo BBQ delivers on this front as well, serving up a family-style feast that'll please any enthusiast of smoked meats, hearty sides and picnic-inspired beverages -- including those of the adult variety.

The all-you-care-to-eat meal kicks off with the Prospector's Homemade Cheddar Biscuits, served with a sweet pepper jelly, before a trio of salads -- including Wheezy's Watermelon -- hits the table. The biscuits are dangerously delicious, but save some room, as a platter the size of Texas is up next. Piled high with ribs, chicken, beef brisket and pork sausage, the main course has a little something for every meat lover. The latter, coiled on a skewer and cheekily called "There's a Sausage in my Boot," is a highlight. There's also a selection of plant-based mains for non-carnivores.

Barbecue enthusiasts wondering what the sauce situation is like should know the meat platter is served dry. That said, three different BBQ sauces -- classic, sweet and spicy -- sit at every table, just waiting to meat, er, meet all your soaking, dipping and slathering needs.

Disney

The meal also includes a quartet of sides, including some fresh twists on BBQ mainstays. The Slinky Dog Mac & Cheese is topped with crumbled cheddar crackers, for example, while the Cowpoke Corn on the Cob puts a Mexican street corn spin on the summertime favorite. There are eight sides total to pick from, so good luck narrowing it down to just four.

While the first few courses will likely see you loosening your belt, you'll also have the option to finish things off with a selection of sweet treats. Staples such as apple pie and cheesecake are satisfying and safe bets, while the adorable Forky-inspired cupcake is a no-brainer for any youngsters in your dining party.

Liquid desserts are also an option for adults craving a little post-meal kick. Whether imbibing before, during or after dinner, you can't go wrong wrangling up the watermelon-flavored Snake Eye Margarita or the Grown-up's PB & J, which features peanut butter whiskey and, yes, grape jelly.

If you're a hungry park patron with a hankering for copious amounts of comfort food or are a "Toy Story" fan looking to be further immersed in Andy's backyard, Roundup Rodeo BBQ will satisfy your appetite without breaking the illusion you're an honorary toy. But maybe wait 30 minutes or so before braving Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster on a full stomach.

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