Savor the Flavor on National Gumbo Day
Today we celebrate National Gumbo Day with a delicious recipe from Tiana’s Palace at Disneyland Park! This dish honors the vibrant flavors of New Orleans and the legacy of Princess Tiana, bringing guests a taste of authentic Louisiana cuisine.
The Story Behind Tiana’s Palace Gumbo
Chef Toby Hollis and Operations Manager Lindell Skinner from New Orleans Square share the importance of gumbo at Tiana’s Palace. As a New Orleans native, Lindell helped select menu items that connect deeply with the culture and guests. Chef Toby highlights how every ingredient plays a meaningful role in creating the House Gumbo.
“The focus on authenticity made me realize how each ingredient impacts the dish,” Chef Toby explains. The gumbo includes chicken thighs, chopped vegetables, Louisiana andouille sausage, and heirloom white rice—each element chosen with care.
Honoring Tradition and Family
Stella Chase, daughter of Leah Chase—one of the inspirations for Disney’s Princess Tiana—shares what gumbo means to her family. She reminds us that the joy of gumbo comes not only from its ingredients but from sharing it with loved ones. “Gumbo brings people together,” Stella says.
Cooking with Disney Magic
The culinary and Imagineering teams traveled to New Orleans to capture the city’s authentic spirit. Their dedication ensures that each dish served at Tiana’s Palace reflects the soul of New Orleans cuisine. The House Gumbo recipe reflects this commitment, blending tradition, flavor, and storytelling.
As Disney Parks continues to bring Princess Tiana’s journey to life, guests can look forward to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opening in 2024 at both Magic Kingdom Park and Disneyland Park.