As the multi-year refurbishment of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa nears completion, a key element of the refreshed lobby has officially made its debut. The Perch, a new lobby bar, opened its doors on November 10, 2025, after seven months of construction. This new addition provides a sophisticated new amenity for Disney Vacation Club members and guests, offering a dedicated space to enjoy a drink amidst the updated Victorian elegance of the resort’s iconic atrium.
The Design and Ambiance of The Perch
The Perch is thoughtfully integrated into the Grand Floridian’s refreshed lobby, occupying the space where a large, decorative birdcage once stood. The name “The Perch” is a direct homage to its predecessor, and subtle avian themes are woven into the bar’s design, appearing in the custom stained glass, murals, and wallpaper. This creates a clever nod to the resort’s history while establishing a new identity for the space.
The bar itself features elegant woodwork, classic herringbone tile, and seating for a small number of guests. It is designed to be a refined and intimate setting, perfect for enjoying the live music from the Grand Floridian Society Orchestra or simply soaking in the ambiance of the grand lobby. Operating daily from 12:00 PM to 11:00 PM, The Perch offers a new destination for members staying at The Villas at Grand Floridian or visiting from other resorts.
The Perch Menu: Cocktails and Wine
The menu at The Perch is curated to be both elegant and concise, focusing on high-quality wines, a small selection of local beers, and two signature cocktails. This is not a full-service lounge with an extensive food menu; rather, it is a classic lobby bar intended for pre-dinner drinks or a relaxing nightcap.
Signature Cocktails
The cocktail menu features two unique creations designed specifically for the new venue:
- Floridian 75 ($22.00): A sophisticated take on the classic French 75, this drink combines Fords Gin, a house-made Florida Citrus Cordial, and lemon, topped with Taittinger ‘La Francaise’ Brut Champagne.
- Coffee Rum Sazerac ($17.50): This inventive cocktail is made with Siesta Key Coffee Rum, Demerara sugar, an absinthe rinse, and Peychaud’s Bitters, finished with a lemon essence.
Wine and Beer Selection
The beverage list also includes a curated selection of nine different wines by the glass and bottle, featuring a mix of champagne, rosé, white, and red options from regions like Champagne, France; Marlborough, New Zealand; and Napa Valley, California. The beer selection highlights local Florida breweries, with offerings from Cigar City Brewing, Funky Buddha, and 3 Daughters Brewing.
A New Amenity for DVC Members
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. While the resort has long been home to the popular Enchanted Rose lounge, The Perch offers a more central and casual (though still elegant) option for enjoying a beverage directly within the main lobby. Its location makes it a convenient meeting spot or a place to unwind after a day in the parks without committing to a full lounge experience.
The addition is part of a broader strategy by Disney to enhance the guest experience at its deluxe resorts through thoughtful refurbishments. For DVC members, such upgrades are a welcome sight, as they represent a continued investment in the properties they call their “home away from home.” The Perch successfully adds a modern touch to the Grand Floridian’s lobby while respecting its storied history and theme.
A New Chapter for the Grand Floridian
The debut of The Perch is a significant and welcome step in the evolution of the Grand Floridian. It enhances the resort’s atmosphere by providing a beautiful and functional space for guests to gather and relax. As the final elements of the lobby refurbishment fall into place, The Perch stands out as a highlight of the project, offering a new tradition for members and guests to enjoy for years to come.
Written by
Rachel Van Norman
Contributing Writer
Rachel fell deeply in love with all things Disney as a little girl. Now as a wife and a mother herself, she shares this Disney obsession with her son and everyone around her. From her love of princesses to eating all the Disney food, Rachel spends her time radiating Disney magic and keeping everyone up to date on Disney news.
