Gazette Club 33 March 10

Disney’s Club 33 History March 2010 Gazette

Secluded in the heart of one of the most magical places on earth, among the facades and ‘Hidden Mickeys,’ exists a place that you won’t find on any map. This secret restaurant, unknown by the vast majority of park guests, is the elusive Club 33. In the middle of a bustling theme park, it is surprising to find a tranquil place that not only offers divine cuisine, but also a glimpse into the mind of Walt Disney. With Disneyland catering to nearly 40,000 guests daily, Club 33 is the one place that truly focuses on the individual.

This private, members-only establishment was designed by Disney himself and has been in operation since 1967. Inspired by the New York World's Fair in 1964, the club was intended to be a place where Disney could entertain colleagues, dignitaries, celebrities, and businessmen in an undisturbed, distinctively decorated atmosphere.

To fulfill his vision, Disney and his wife Lillian enlisted the help of artist Dorothea Redmond, and set decorator Emile Kuri. They helped design and decorate the club with many 19th century antiques, Victorian embellishments, and other French Quarter inspired pieces. Unfortunately, Disney was never able to see his dream realized as he passed away just 5 months before the club’s completion.

Located at 33 Royal Street, New Orleans Square, Club 33 occupies the second floor directly above frequented shops within view of Tom Sawyer’s Island. Most pass by it obliviously, subtly distinguished only by the number 33. It has been said that Disney Imagineers specifically painted the club’s entrance “No-See-Um Green,” the least detectable color to the human eye. This secretive technique is one of many that Disney utilized, seemingly straight out of a mystery novel. Once you find the door, access requires the use of an intercom or a key card. Those who gain admission are led to the upper floor, featuring two unique dining rooms via staircase or antique French lift.

“The interior of the restaurant looks like it was carved out of a dream, absolutely perfect,” said Kevin Proff, after dining with a family friend. “Club 33 is a paradigm of elite-class dining.” It is characterized by its remarkable hospitality and attention to detail, offering its guests a VIP experience. “The silverware and glassware are impeccable and precisely lain at each table setting, with perfect by-the-book etiquette,” Proff continued.

Three distinctive pieces found inside include an antique foyer table used in the film Mary Poppins (1964), a phone booth adapted from the film The Happiest Millionaire (1967), and a harpsichord with a hand-painted scene of the New Orleans Harbor. "The Disney Room," formally known as "The Trophy Room," was once adorned with taxidermy. One such remaining game piece is the famed animatronic vulture, originally designed to interact and joke with guests via hidden microphones still found in the chandeliers today. However, the system was never put into operation. The re-designed room is now filled with Disney memorabilia and early design concepts.

The aura of mystery surrounding Club 33, one of its most alluring qualities, makes it difficult to differentiate between fact and fiction. Having never dined there myself, my attempt to peel through the layers of rumors resulted in many different versions of the same story. The club’s hush-hush reputation definitely adds to its distinctive and unique charm, perhaps perpetuated by Disneyland itself to preserve one of Disney’s most personal legacies. Even the name’s origin has led to much speculation. Some believe it was named after the 33 major sponsors of Disneyland at the time, while others believe it simply reflects the address of the club (33 Royal Street). Another theory reasons that when you flip 33 on its side, it looks like two sets of ears, or the initials M.M. for Mickey Mouse.

After Disney’s death, limited membership opportunities became available to the general public. Individual memberships are priced in the thousands of dollars, enough to drive off the merely curious guest. Today, there are roughly 480 members, a 60/40 split between corporations and individuals. To become a member, it takes only a letter requesting membership and a little pixie dust if you have it (the wait list extends well beyond a decade).

Club 33 offers its members an exclusive dining experience while enjoying unparalleled views, free access to both parks, exclusive behind-the-scenes tours, private parties, Disney characters to entertain you while you dine—not to mention incredible cuisine. “The food was absolutely amazing,” said Doug Long, whose friend of a friend is a member, “and with an open dessert bar, I tried to eat as much as I possibly could while I was there.”

Those who have dined at Club 33 range from presidents and celebrities to the typical day tripper. Presidents Reagan and Ford, among others, have all enjoyed the club’s magical ambiance. It has been reported that Robert F. Kennedy ate at Club 33 while vacationing at Disneyland with his family just days before his assassination in 1968. Other noteworthy Club 33 guests include Kobe Bryant, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Michael Jackson, Cher, Elton John, Barbra Streisand, and Johnny Depp.

“And after you leave, the place disappears. From the outside, you would never know it’s there. It is definitely the hidden gem of the whole park,” said Proff. Club 33 is a piece of Disney history that continues to keep the magic alive by carrying out the vision of its creator.

The history and mystery behind one of Disneyland's best kept secrets.

{ BY GRACY WILKINS }

{ ILLUSTRATION BY SARA WILKINS }