Our friends at Disney Parks Blog just shared a meaningful connection behind the creation of Tiana’s Bayou Adventure—a connection rooted in real-life history, culture, and culinary passion. One of the key inspirations for Princess Tiana and the upcoming attraction comes straight from New Orleans’ legendary Dooky Chase’s Restaurant and its beloved matriarch, Chef Leah Chase.
The Real-Life Inspiration Behind Tiana
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant began as a humble po’boy stand in 1941, founded by Emily and Dooky Chase Sr. in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans. But in 1946, when Leah Chase married Dooky Chase Jr., everything changed. Leah transformed the family business into one of the first African American fine dining restaurants in the United States. Her goal? To serve incredible food and create a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of race or background.
Leah’s impact stretched far beyond the kitchen. From feeding presidents like Barack Obama to welcoming icons like Beyoncé, Dooky Chase’s became a cultural cornerstone. Leah’s values and vision helped shape not only New Orleans but also the character of Tiana in Disney’s The Princess and the Frog.
Bringing That Legacy to Life in the Parks
This legacy lives on in Tiana’s Bayou Adventure, the all-new attraction coming to Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World and Disneyland Park in 2024. During the ride queue, you might even hear Leah Chase’s daughter, Leah Chase Jr., singing “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?”—a touching tribute to her mother’s legacy and the city they called home.
Another daughter, Stella Chase Reese, has been a vital part of the attraction’s development from the start. Walt Disney Imagineering’s Charita Carter, Ted Robledo, and team met with Stella in 2021 to learn how to honor New Orleans authentically and respectfully. That meeting helped guide the storytelling, design, and cultural details seen throughout the attraction.
A Family Legacy Meets Disney Magic
In a recent visit to Walt Disney Imagineering, Stella and her daughter Myla Reese Poree got a sneak peek at Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in development. Seeing the Audio-Animatronics in action, Stella remarked, “My mom would be ecstatic…to see Disney take her talents and her values and use them in Tiana.”
They also explored Tiana’s Palace quick-service restaurant and Eudora’s Chic Boutique at Disneyland Park, seeing firsthand how their family’s story continues to influence Disney experiences across the country. Stella called it “a joy because it’s a way for my mother to continue to give back.”
Back in New Orleans, Disney Imagineers surprised the entire Chase family at a gathering inside Dooky Chase’s Restaurant—with an invite to be among the first to ride Tiana’s Bayou Adventure at Walt Disney World this summer. It’s a fitting celebration of their contribution to the story.
Continuing the Story of Tiana
When Tiana’s Bayou Adventure opens later this year, guests will step into the next chapter of Tiana’s journey. The ride picks up after the events of The Princess and the Frog, as Tiana and Louis search the bayou for the perfect band to help them throw a Mardi Gras celebration where everyone is welcome.
Along the way, guests will encounter familiar faces, brand-new musical critters, and heartfelt storytelling inspired by the Chase family’s real legacy.
So next time you step aboard a log flume in the Louisiana bayou, remember: you’re also stepping into a story grounded in community, history, and the power of a dream served with a side of soul food.
Stay tuned for more magical updates as we count down to opening day!
