Ballast Point Brewing Company is the newest dining location at Downtown Disney in the Disneyland Resort, and we were thrilled to be invited as media to try out all the new beers and food — and to be a part of the official grand opening.
The location is at the heart of Downtown Disney with an upstairs dining location that has a jaw-dropping view of the resort. Each Ballast Point location has an exclusive theme and for this particular location, it is a nautical theme with interesting lighting fixtures, wood detailing, and even decorative wood surrounding the bar to represent fish scales.
Part of this location used to be home to Build-A-Bear Workshop, and this restaurant didn’t forget to add homage. Up in the rafters is a sly pirate bear watching patrons as they enjoy their time in this new brewery. Off to the side of the restaurant is an actual brewery where currently only one type of beer is being brewed, but more will come in the future.
Now, let’s get down to some interesting information. They actually can sell beer to guests so they can take it home with them. Karl Strauss Brewing Company doesn’t even do this at Universal CityWalk at Universal Studios Hollywood. The policy still remains that no alcohol can be taken into Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure, but guests will be able to walk through Downtown Disney as long at it remains unopened so they can continue to shop.
If you exit security for any reason, you cannot re-enter back onto the property with the beer that was purchased from Ballast Point, even if it has remained unopened. This location sells growlers, 6-packs of cans or bottles, and 22 oz bottles. Guest will not be allowed to purchase single bottles unless they are the 22 oz bottles. If guest are going to the park and want to purchase beer, Ballast Point will be able to hold their purchase until the end of the day to allow them to enjoy the parks. For all those party goers out there, this location does not sell kegs.
The chef at each Ballast Point location is able to tweak the menu as they see fit and incorporate the beers into the dishes. This is definitely bar-friendly food and shareable, with offerings like Bavarian Pretzels with “Sculpin” beer cheese and “Fathom” beer mustard, Smoke Ham Hock Flat Bread, and Duck Confit Nachos.
Tyler was able to try the different wing choices but heads up, out of the three different types, only one flavor is allowed per order. The three wing sauces served at Ballast Point are: the Spicy Sculpin Buffalo Glaze with a side of Blue Cheese Sauce, the Crispy Dry Rub with Southern Style Comeback Sauce, and the Bourbon & Brown Sugar with Ranch.
This is a first come, first served location so make sure you plan accordingly. Unfortunately, it was pouring rain and we were unable to go outside to the patio to get pictures because it was closed to guests, but it seems like once the sun comes out it will be a great place to kick back, relax, and enjoy the view. Come try out this location for yourself the next time you come to Disneyland. If you can’t take the bottled stuff home, stop by the gift shop and check out some of their more travel-friendly merchandise.
