$69 for Lemonade? Disney Fans Furious Over Souvenir Cup Markup

Disney fans are buzzing with shock and frustration over a menu item at The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers, which recently opened on Disney’s BoardWalk. The centerpiece of the controversy? A Sparkling Lemonade with lavender essence, served in a souvenir porcelain swan cup, priced at a steep $69.

While some visitors were initially intrigued by the elegant presentation, many balked upon discovering that the same cup—officially named “Gwendolyn’s Romantic Garden Porcelain Swan Cup & Bowl”—can be purchased outside of Disney for $38. This upcharge, which is not entirely surprising, is frustrating for guests of Disney.

Pricey Presentation Sparks Outrage

The Sparkling Lemonade, known for its delicate lavender flavor and elegant presentation, quickly became a talking point among Disney guests. The beverage is optionally served in a porcelain swan-shaped cup, which many agree adds a touch of whimsy and refinement to the experience.

However, as fans learned that the cup is sold for nearly half the price outside of the Disney setting, reactions turned from curiosity to outrage.

Social media platforms have been flooded with comments criticizing the significant markup. Fans have pointed out that while they expect Disney experiences to come with a premium price tag, the upcharge for this particular item feels excessive. Many are calling the pricing a “rip-off,” questioning how the drink and the Disney setting justify such a high price difference.

The Real Cost of Dining at Disney

For those familiar with Disney dining, this type of pricing is not entirely surprising. Restaurants and food stands within Disney parks are known for their premium pricing, which often reflects the unique experience and exclusive ambiance that comes with dining on Disney property.

However, the revelation about the price difference between the swan cup sold at Disney and its retail price has amplified discussions about how far those markups should go.

This practice of charging more for the same products sold outside the parks isn’t exclusive to The Cake Bake Shop. Many restaurant chains and shops that operate within Disney’s parks and resorts often implement higher prices to account for their location. Factors like elevated rent, licensing agreements with Disney, and the added value of the immersive experience all contribute to these price hikes.

As The Cake Bake Shop settles into its new home at Disney’s BoardWalk, it will be interesting to see if the premium-priced items, including the swan cup, remain a popular item or if the backlash prompts the bakery to make adjustments. For now, one thing is certain: the high cost of a magical drink in a charming swan cup has left many Disney guests wondering if some experiences at Disney come at too high a price.