Rumor: Le Cellier to become Signature Restaurant

I always seem to come back to food.  I can't help it; dining at Disney is part of my vacation.

This rumor hit a couple of discussion boards in the last few days.

It seems that the staff at Le Cellier has been told they will re-categorize as a Signature restaurant as early as fall of 2010 or early 2011.

What does that mean for the average Disney vacationer?

The obvious one is an increase in price.  Given the huge following Le Cellier seems to have, this might make it easier for those who've yet to experience it to acquire that oh-so-hard-to-get ADR.  But it will set you back a bit more, either in cash or in dining credits.

Le Cellier will probably re-vamp its menu to make it more unique.  This would put it in line with other Signature locations which tend to offer a more specialized menu.

Given that Signature locations tend to be more intimate and quiet, it's also possible that seating would be shifted around to accommodate fewer tables and that a Resort Casual dress code would be put in place.

What do I think?  I think it's not just possible, but highly probable.

Le Cellier is very popular.  Demand for seats at this restaurant vastly outweigh supply.  Make it a Signature and raise the prices will make Disney more money and probably not affect demand significantly.

Don't worry about having fewer one credit choices at Epcot.  We have those two new restaurants coming online shortly.  Well, one new and one refreshed option.   Cantina de San Angel will open later this year with more space, especially for outdoor dining.  And the new restaurant in the Italy pavilion, Via Napoli Pizzeria, will certainly draw in crowds with its pizza.

Stay tuned!  We'll see how this all plays out.