Magnolia Tree Terrace was a sit-down restaurant in Disneyland’s Frontierland, operating briefly in 1970 after Quaker Oats ended its sponsorship of Aunt Jemima’s Kitchen (1962–1970). Located on New Orleans Street overlooking the Rivers of America, it retained the Southern plantation-style decor and expanded menu of its predecessor, serving breakfast and lunch dishes like pancakes and fried chicken. The restaurant transitioned to River Belle Terrace in 1971, maintaining its riverside charm.
Below are 10 fun facts about Magnolia Tree Terrace at Disneyland:
- Short-Lived Name: Magnolia Tree Terrace operated for less than a year in 1970, serving as a transitional name after Quaker Oats withdrew sponsorship due to a disagreement with Disney.
- Southern Aesthetic Continuity: The restaurant retained its plantation-style design with white pillars, filigreed balconies, and a riverside patio, evoking a Southern mansion vibe.
- Expanded Menu: It offered breakfast items like pancakes and waffles, plus lunch options such as fried chicken, ham, and salads, with prices ranging from 75¢ to $1.75.
- Riverside Dining: The outdoor patio provided scenic seating along the Rivers of America, allowing guests to watch the Mark Twain Riverboat and keelboats while dining.
- No Sponsor Branding: Unlike its Quaker Oats-backed predecessor, the Terrace operated without corporate sponsorship, removing Aunt Jemima logos and pancake mix promotions.
- Live Cooking Display: Cooks continued to prepare pancakes and waffles in view of guests, maintaining the theatrical counter setup from Aunt Jemima’s Kitchen.
- New Orleans Street Hub: Located near Adventureland and Frontierland’s shops, its prominent balcony and signage drew crowds from Main Street, U.S.A.’s entry point.
- Themed Ambiance: The interior featured white tablecloths and Southern-inspired decor, with ceiling fans and wood accents enhancing the plantation atmosphere.
- Family-Friendly Appeal: The restaurant catered to families with a kid-friendly menu and proximity to Frontierland attractions like the Mike Fink Keel Boats landing.
- Quick Transition: In 1971, Magnolia Tree Terrace was renamed River Belle Terrace, refining the Southern theme and menu, a name and identity that persists in Frontierland as of 2025.
