Prime Time Cafe on the chopping block?

[toasty]

Obviously, DHS is poised for some significant changes over the next few years, starting any day now. I recall Jim Hill saying at one point a while back that there were just a handful of things that were considered untouchable, and Prime Time was not one of them -- and, it's obviously on the side of the park that we know is going to be getting some attention. Does anyone have any intel on its status, whether it is like to stay or go, and if it's likely to go, how much longer it will be around?

I ask because it's one of my wife's favorite places. We're going to be there in a couple of weeks and would like to go if it's going to be going away, but the only ADR I could get is at a really awkward time. Would prefer to wait until we're back in October if it's still going to be there.

Thanks!

 

[Hakunamatata]

I'd be surprised if they did away with it. It's one of the more popular ADRs at that park.

 

[andysol]

It's in DHS, so if they actually did do anything with it, they'd just close it with "plans" to do something in the "future"

 

[iluvMainStMagic]

Oh dear! I hope not!! We love it too

 

[AgeEight-E]

I certainly hope not. It's one of the few restaurants at Disney that's a must-visit for me on every trip. The theme just resonates with me, even if the servers' dedication to that theme can vary in recent years.

 

[Thrill Seeker]

I have a hunch it will get the axe for Star Wars Land, whenever that happens...

 

[Bolt]

Doesn't really buy that much real estate.

 

[betty rose]

I certainly hope not. It's one of the few restaurants at Disney that's a must-visit for me on every trip. The theme just resonates with me, even if the servers' dedication to that theme can vary in recent years.

I like the fried chicken, just like my Mom's RIP.

 

[michael.fumc]

If it is going to go, they should have something new up and running before, I am so excited that DHS is getting love, it really needs it. I am not sure how they are going to implement it though can't keep closing things,

Doesn't really buy that much real estate.

I agree unless they take "Hollywood and Vine" as well don't they share bathrooms and maybe kitchens, Not sure

 

[COProgressFan]

I hope Prime Time stays. It is truly a unique Disney experience. While suffering lots of changes over the years like the rest of WDW (less food for more $$, fewer in-character servers), it is one of those things the whole family can enjoy. As is Sci-Fi Dine in theater, also a unique experience also rumored to be going. (And again, I'm not sure anyone knows what is staying/going at this point).

While I am sure the Star Wars additions (whenever they come) will be high quality, I can't help but wonder if it will isolate some of those who may not be in the demographic for being a Star Wars fan. What about the small kids, or the grandparents? Or those who simply aren't "into" the Star Wars realm? I don't know, are foreign visitors into Star Wars? Will it make sense to them? The Studios desperately needs a DCA-style redo, but I'm not sure turning half of it into a Star Wars land is appropriate. I know others disagree.

I fear the loss of the simpler, family oriented attractions/restaurants/etc that have wide appeal to really anyone. And the loss of the true magic that was part of Disney-MGM Studios in its first decade or so.

 

[wendysue]

The Tune In Lounge that is part of Prime Time is our favorite spot to have a drink and meet people. Really hope this doesn't happen.

 

[Communicore]

I hope it does get the axe. I don't think the current WDW target demographic relates to this kind of 1950's era.

 

[Bocabear]

If it is going to go, they should have something new up and running before, I am so excited that DHS is getting love, it really needs it. I am not sure how they are going to implement it though can't keep closing things,

But they have still not officially announced anything... So to be" glad it is getting the love it needs", sounds a bit premature... They could be just adding a Star Wars themed overlay to the Backlot Express and another merchandise location... in my book that would not equal "The Love It Needs"... no one knows yet....

 

[CaptainAmerica]

Obviously, DHS is poised for some significant changes over the next few years, starting any day now.

You're leading with the most common misconception around these parts lately. The only "source" that says DHS is poised for significant changes any time soon is fan-driven hype based on intentionally vague comments from Bob Iger. Inevitably, people are now annoyed that Iger has failed to deliver on promises he never made in the first place.

I wouldn't worry.

 

[Bocabear]

I hope it does get the axe. I don't think the current WDW target demographic relates to this kind of 1950's era.

They need to stop giving things the axe and start adding to the roster...not subtracting...
Unless this is all a corporate experiment to see how far they can go and still have people shell out $100 for admission...So far everyone is still happy and willing to go there... Why rush to add more attractions when you can remove them and their operational expenses and still make the same amount of money...When people do eventually complain they can add another meet and greet and marketing can spin that into a whole new addition to the park...And there ya go...

 

[Castle Cake Apologist]

I hope it does get the axe. I don't think the current WDW target demographic relates to this kind of 1950's era.

I would argue that you're quite wrong about that.

Considering that it's one of the most popular ADRs on property, your post doesn't even really make a lot of sense.

 

[PhotoDave219]

Obviously, DHS is poised for some significant changes over the next few years, starting any day now. I recall Jim Hill saying at one point a while back that there were just a handful of things that were considered untouchable, and Prime Time was not one of them -- and, it's obviously on the side of the park that we know is going to be getting some attention. Does anyone have any intel on its status, whether it is like to stay or go, and if it's likely to go, how much longer it will be around?

I ask because it's one of my wife's favorite places. We're going to be there in a couple of weeks and would like to go if it's going to be going away, but the only ADR I could get is at a really awkward time. Would prefer to wait until we're back in October if it's still going to be there.

Thanks!

As far as I know, Its not slated to go anywhere. And at the rate construction is going at the Studios, I feel very comfortable in suggesting it will still be there in October.

 

[NowInc]

IF the proposed SW land goes where the rumors say, then it won't match the theme of the area.

But why does that automatically mean it will be gone? Disney has in the past and can again "move" things to different locations.

 

[toasty]

well, I for one hope they find a way to keep it, either there or somewhere else. We've always had servers that really embraced their roles, and it's always been a fun place to eat. Food is decent, but the decor, etc. really makes the place.

 

[Blairnicol]

Gah I hope not. Half of what I do when I got to DHS is eat, since they've chopped the legs out from under the place. SciFi, Prime Time & HBD are 3 of my favorite places to go on every visit!!