The new Parkside Market is now open at Downtown Disney, and we’ve got your Unofficial Guide to this delicious new addition to Disneyland.
Built atop the former AMC cinemas on the west side of Downtown Disney, Parkside Market is a mid-century modern-style, two-story structure with a Palm Springs-inspired aesthetic that complements the nearby outdoor stage.
The lower level features a quick-service food hall—a brand-new style of service for Disney—with three outlets that expand the resort’s ethnic options: Seoul Sister, serving Korean bibimbap rice bowls; Sip & Sonder, offering coffee and frozen drinks with Caribbean flair; and GG’s Chicken Shop, bringing cuisine direct from Chicago.
On the second story, you’ll find Vista Parkside Market, an al fresco cocktail lounge with striking views of the shopping district. In addition to sipping craft cocktails, sharable sangrias, or zero-proof cocktails from the upper level bar, you can also order full-service food delivery from any of the vendors downstairs.
In general, we appreciate the quality and variety of the offerings at Parkside Market. However, be aware that entrées (without sides) and cocktails average $16-$20 each, which is moderate pricing by Disney’s standards but not exactly an inexpensive meal.
Here’s our take on some of the signature selections found at Parkside Market, as sampled by Unofficial Guide contributor Eric Oh at an invited media opening event.
Seoul Sister at Parkside Market
Beef and Egg Bowl with Salad Base: The bulgogi is a bit on the saltier side than a sweet marinade that would typically be prepared, but the quality of the ingredients is superb.
Dumplings: Plump with meat and veggies, these dumplings are pan-fried to perfection from inside and out. We just wish it came in a larger serving.
GG’s Chicken Shop at Parkside Market
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Sandwich: The lightly toasted brioche bun provides a great crunch in tandem with the crispy chicken patty. The tangy sauce has a mild amount of heat; you may want to ask for the coleslaw on the side.
Broccoli Slaw: Even if you aren’t a big fan of broccoli, the lemony poppyseed dressing is delicious.
Waffle fries: Dusted with an in-house spice rub similar to spicy BBQ chips, these are tasty with or without Parmesan dipping sauce.
Chicken Strips: Classic and tasty; you can’t go far wrong with tendies!
Chocolate Dirt Pudding Cup: No notes! Just as simple as you can make it, and it comes with an adorable shovel spoon.
Sip & Sonder at Parkside Market
The Monarch: This butterfly pea flower slushie with coconut vanilla is not just refreshing; it also turns your tongue blue!
What’s your favorite new flavor found at Downtown Disney’s Parkside Market? Let us know in the comments below!
For all there is to see and do at Disneyland, check out The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland by Seth Kubersky with Bob Sehlinger, Len Testa, and Guy Selga Jr. All Disneyland fans should also check out The Disneyland Story: The Unofficial Guide to the Evolution of Walt Disney’s Dream by Sam Gennawey.
