The Story Behind ‘The Empress Lilly’ at Disney World

If you’ve ever visited The Landing at Disney Springs, you’ve likely seen the grand riverboat permanently docked on Lake Buena Vista’s shimmering waters. Today, this boat houses Paddlefish, one of Disney’s most unique signature seafood restaurants. But long before it became Paddlefish, this iconic riverboat has a storied history dating back to the early days of Walt Disney World.

It was originally known as The Empress Lilly and has played many roles over the years. Let’s examine the fascinating history of this riverboat and its transformation over the decades.

The Birth of The Empress Lilly

The story of Empress Lilly began in the 1970s when Walt Disney World Resort had only been open for a few short years. In 1976, Disney Imagineers set to work creating a stunning waterfront building designed to look like a classic Louis XV-style paddle steamer. Though it appears to be a boat, the Empress Lilly is actually a stationary building, anchored permanently on the water.

Named after Walt Disney’s widow, Lillian Disney, Empress Lilly was christened in a special ceremony on May 1, 1977. Lillian herself was present to celebrate the opening of this majestic riverboat, and the building became a standout attraction at what was then known as Disney Village Marketplace long before the creation of Disney Springs.

A Floating Dining Experience

The Empress Lilly wasn’t just a beautiful sight—it was also a premier dining destination. The riverboat housed multiple dining options, including three table-service restaurants and several lounges. Each restaurant offered its own unique cuisine, and together, they created a culinary experience like no other.

• Steerman’s Quarters on the main deck specializes in certified Angus beef, serving up dinner with breathtaking views of the boat’s paddle wheel through large, stately windows.
• The Fisherman’s Deck offered seafood lovers a two-tiered dining room with 180-degree views of Lake Buena Vista, featuring fresh seafood dishes.
• The Empress Room was an elegant, signature dining experience that boasted four-star cuisine and impeccable service. With just two seatings each night, it was the height of sophistication and paved the way for future Disney fine dining experiences like Victoria & Albert’s.

The riverboat also featured lively lounges, including the popular Baton Rouge Lounge, where guests could enjoy live Dixieland jazz performed by the Riverboat Rascals. The Empress Lilly offered a little something for everyone, whether you were in the mood for a formal dinner or a laid-back evening with cocktails and music.

Special Events and Character Dining

In addition to its daily dining options, The Empress Lilly played host to a variety of special events throughout its time on the water. Football fans could enjoy the weekly “Monday Night Huddles,” featuring appearances by members of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers during the 1980 NFL season. The players would discuss the previous Sunday’s game, break down plays, and answer questions from the audience.

The Empress Lilly was also home to one of Walt Disney World’s first character dining experiences. Families could enjoy a special character breakfast with classic Disney characters, adding a touch of magic to their meal. Parents loved watching their children interact with beloved characters while enjoying a delicious breakfast on the water.

From The Empress Lilly to Fulton’s Crab House

By the mid-1990s, changes were on the horizon for Empress Lilly. In 1995, after nearly two decades of serving as a premier dining destination, The Empress Lilly closed its doors. Disney had begun partnering with outside businesses to manage some of its dining locations, and Levy Restaurants took over the riverboat’s space.

In 1996, Empress Lilly reopened as Fulton’s Crab House, a seafood restaurant named after the steamboat’s namesake, Robert Fulton, the inventor of the first commercially successful steamboat.

Fulton’s Crab House quickly became known for its extensive seafood menu, serving everything from crab legs to fresh oysters. While the restaurant was popular, some Disney fans were disappointed by the changes made to the riverboat’s iconic exterior.

The paddle wheel and smokestacks were removed, and the building’s new signage didn’t sit well with everyone. Despite these changes, Fulton’s Crab House remained a beloved seafood spot for 20 years.

The Transformation to Paddlefish

In 2016, Levy Restaurants closed Fulton’s Crab House for an extensive refurbishment. After months of renovations, the restaurant reopened in 2017 as Paddlefish, a sleek, modern seafood and steakhouse. The redesign brought back some of the riverboat’s original charm, including the restoration of the iconic paddle wheel and smokestacks, paying homage to the boat’s origins.

Paddlefish quickly established itself as one of the top dining destinations at Disney Springs, offering an upscale menu featuring fresh seafood, steaks, and an impressive international wine list.

Signature dishes like lobster corn dogs, Alaskan king crab, and shrimp and grits have made Paddlefish a favorite for seafood lovers. The restaurant also boasts stunning 360-degree views of Lake Buena Vista from its rooftop deck, making it a popular spot for special occasions and date nights.

For those looking to enhance their dining experience, Paddlefish offers live music on Friday and Saturday evenings, adding to the ambiance of this elegant yet approachable restaurant.

A Legacy on the Water

From its days as Empress Lilly to its current life as Paddlefish, this riverboat has played a significant role in the history of Walt Disney World. Over the years, it has seen changes, renovations, and updates, but it has always maintained its status as a standout landmark on the waters of Lake Buena Vista.

Paddlefish’s blend of modern dining and historic charm continues to draw guests, making it a must-visit for anyone spending time at Disney Springs.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of Empress Lilly or discovering Paddlefish for the first time, this riverboat offers a dining experience like no other. With its rich history and commitment to culinary excellence, Paddlefish is the perfect place to enjoy a meal while taking in the beauty of Disney Springs.

Planning Your Visit to Paddlefish

If you’re planning a trip to Disney Springs, make sure to add Paddlefish to your dining itinerary. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner, and reservations are highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak vacation times. Paddlefish also offers private dining options, making it a great choice for celebrations or events.

As you enjoy your meal, take a moment to appreciate the riverboat’s long history, from its days as Empress Lilly to its current role as a signature dining destination at Disney Springs. With its combination of exquisite food, impeccable service, and a touch of Disney history, Paddlefish continues to shine as a true gem on the waters of Lake Buena Vista.