After Two Decades, Disneyland Demolishes Downtown Disney Area

On May 15, 2025, construction crews were seen actively tearing down the final structures of the longtime Tortilla Jo’s restaurant in the Downtown Disney District (Disneyland Resort’s version of Walt Disney World Resort’s Disney Springs). The Mexican eatery, a staple for more than 20 years, closed its doors in March 2024 to make way for two new dining experiences.

Tortilla Jo’s opened in 2004 and quickly became a favorite among Disney Park guests for its authentic Mexican fare, including tacos, quesadillas, enchiladas, and the notably fresh and customizable guacamole, which was prepared tableside by staff. This made the Table Service restaurant a beloved spot within Disneyland Resort’s vibrant dining scene.

Though the Downtown Disney District restaurant closed last spring, demolition permits were only filed in September 2024. Construction work finally began earlier this year and has progressed steadily, marking the end of an era for this Disneyland Resort location. Now, Disney Park guests are saying their final goodbyes to the building. 

Last Thursday, X (formerly known as Twitter) user @laughing_place shared videos of the demolition, capturing heavy machinery as it knocked down the last remnants of Tortilla Jo’s. Such a public demolition is uncommon at the Disney parks, where major construction typically takes place overnight when guests aren’t around. Watch the videos below: 

Watching them knock down part of the remaining Tortilla Jo’s structure. #DowntownDisney #DisneylandResort

I could feel the seismic reverberations as it came loose. #DowntownDisney #DisneylandResort

I could feel the seismic reverberations as it came loose. #DowntownDisney #DisneylandResort pic.twitter.com/LP8bRWFzdh

— LaughingPlace.com (@laughing_place) May 15, 2025

Disneyland Resort plans to replace Tortilla Jo’s with two new restaurants: Arthur & Sons Steak and Bourbon, and Pearl’s Roadside BBQ. Opening dates have yet to be announced, as crews have yet to begin building the new restaurants. Follow Disney Tips for updates on this Downtown Disney District construction and other projects around Disneyland Resort, Walt Disney World Resort, and the Disney parks around the globe! 

Have you spotted any other construction around Disneyland Park, Disney California Adventure Park, or Downtown Disney? Disney Tips would love to hear from you in the comments!