REVIEW: Is The Beak and Barrel Worth a Stop in Magic Kingdom?

Posted:  Foods Parks Tips

The Beak and Barrel is a brand-new, pirate-themed lounge at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom, and my teammate Kristen had the chance to check it out on her most recent visit to the park! Since she’s got all the first-hand details, I thought it would be fun to interview her so we can enjoy some tales and tidbits about this new tavern!

The exterior sign for The Beak and Barrel. The sign looks like an oversized, old, un-rolled map scroll and features a green parrot with an eye patch and pirate hat.

STACY: Kristen, you got to visit The Beak and Barrel right after it opened! What was your first impression as you walked in?

KRISTEN: I loved it. Honestly, the experience begins before you even step through the door – you’re greeted by this colorful crew of characters who set the tone right away. The atmosphere is instantly immersive, and there’s so much happening that you almost don’t know where to look first. It really does feel like you’ve stumbled into a pirate party. And before your adventure begins, the host makes sure your group knows the “rules of the tavern,” which adds a fun, playful touch to the whole experience.

The shelving display behind the bar of the Beak and Barrel which is decorated with dripping candles, old bottles, wooden kegs, and other pirate-themed knickknacks.

STACY: Tell us about the seating! Did you end up sharing a communal table with other guests?

KRISTEN: Yes, I was in the Map Room, which has one long, communal table where different “crews” can sit. The setup definitely encourages mingling, and there’s a sense of camaraderie in the air. I went alone, and while I didn’t chat extensively at the table, I wandered through the other rooms and spaces in the tavern and found myself slipping into easy conversations with other patrons. We shared moments from our different experiences and even swapped videos of some of the special happenings around the tavern; it felt like being part of a shared story.

Menu books, plates, trays, and drinkware are seen on the communal table as guests enjoy their selections.

STACY: OK, let’s dive into the menu! All of the bites and bevvies at The Beak and Barrel are inspired by pirates, swashbucklers, and adventurous tales from the Seven Seas! What did you order?

KRISTEN: The menu is really well-crafted and totally on-theme. I’m vegan, so I was a bit nervous at first, but Pirate Kit, my server, assured me he could scrounge up something completely “from the plants” in the galley. It felt a little out there (and maybe it is), but you’re not coming here for chicken fingers or Mickey-shaped pretzels. You’re here for adventure, right? I ended up with the Island Provisions (sans cream dips) and the Cursed Treasure (without the cookie crumbs or pirate’s gold), and both were totally in line with the overall experience.

The Cursed Treasure beverage in a copper mug sits upon the table with a menu in the background. The drink is topped with a white foam

STACY: Which menu item ended up being your personal favorite?

KRISTEN: Hands down, the Island Provisions. The spiced guava dip and plantain chips were absolutely delicious. It’s definitely something you could share… if you were feeling generous. But honestly? I can’t imagine wanting to share this one anytime soon. All for me, please!

The Island Provisions plantain chips, corn tortillas, and toasted flatbread with assorted dips and the Cursed Treasure drink served in a copper mug.

STACY: As a vegan, did you still find that you had lots of options to choose from?

KRISTEN: I’ll be honest – not really, haha. It was basically Island Provisions or bust. I lucked out because I liked it, but if that hadn’t been the case, there wouldn’t have been much for me here as a plant-based guest. It’s a bit of a double whammy for me, too, because I don’t drink, and their mocktail menu is quite small. The modified Cursed Treasure was the only vegan option left, and it ended up being a bit too sweet for my taste with its vanilla cold foam. So, while there’s charm and adventure all around, my options were pretty limited in the galley.

A page of The Beak and Barrel menu is shown. Displayed are the selections “From the Galley” and “Non-Alcoholic Speciality Beverages” for small bites and mocktails.

STACY: They say the tavern is home to many interesting characters, stories, and mystical mysteries! Did you experience a lot of interaction and storytelling during your visit? 

KRISTEN: Oh, absolutely. I know I didn’t see everything; I’ll definitely be going back. I don’t want to give too much away, because it’s best experienced first-hand, but there’s a chatty parrot that pops its head out now and then, mysterious writing on the walls, and even some disappearing ships to discover. Be sure to check out the bulletin board next to the bar, because there are familiar faces and fun little tidbits hidden there. There’s a treasure trove of easter eggs in the tavern, and I can’t wait to set sail for a second visit next month.

A bulletin board full of aged, satirical pages advertising pirate-themed events such as auctions and swimming classes is seen. They are heavily influenced by the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction.

Wooden shelves filled with old books and scrolls and a wall lined with old maps decorate The Beak and Barrel.

STACY: Guests of all ages are welcome to visit The Beak and Barrel; however, it appears that the majority of the menu is focused on signature cocktails and other adult beverage options. Do you think this is still a worthwhile destination for families?

KRISTEN: I think the average kid might not be as thrilled with the menu offerings. The theming is super cool, and they’d probably love the atmosphere for that alone, but honestly, it does feel pretty “adult-y,” if that makes sense. That’s coming from a childless millennial who visited opening weekend. My nephew, who’s four, would probably love it in a couple of years, but right now I think he’d be a bit overstimulated and might struggle to enjoy the food or drinks. It’s a place that feels tailored more for adults and older kids who can really take in the whole immersive experience.

An animatronic of a green parrot in a pirate hat and eye-patch interacts with guests from his perch atop a shelf.

STACY: Overall, what were your final thoughts as you finished your visit to the tavern? What rating would you give it out of 10?

KRISTEN: I’m giving this a solid 8 for atmosphere. I’ve always loved Pirates of the Caribbean; the movie was a formative part of my tween years, and the ride is a must-do on every trip. Food-wise, I’d probably give it a 6, but honestly, you’re not really coming here for the food. You’re here for the vibes, the immersion, and the sense of stepping into another world. For that alone, it’s worth the voyage.

A table with red and wood booth and stools sits awaiting guests to be seated amid old pirate-themed trinkets and portraits to view at The Beak and Barrel.

That sounds like a solid review to me, and I cannot wait to visit The Beak and Barrel the next time I set a course for the Magic Kingdom! Thank you, Kristen, for sharing your take on this new tavern with us! 

~Stacy 

 

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