Jaleo to open March 17 at Disney Springs

The long-awaited opening of Chef Jose Andrés’ Jaleo at Disney Springs will take place on March 17.

This will be the fifth Jaleo location in the U.S., the first in Florida an the largest location to date.

The restaurant will feature an extensive menu of tapas reflecting traditional and contemporary Spanish cuisine, as well as sangrias and a premier selection of Spanish wines

Some of the highlights include a variety of authentic paellas cooked over a wood-fired paella pit, Spanish specialties like hand-carved Jamon Iberico de Bellota and wood-grilled Iberico pork, and signature dishes like Gambas al ajillo, shrimp sautéed with garlic and chili, and Pollo Croquetas, classic Spanish chicken fritters. 

Adjacent to the Jaleo entrance will be Pepe by José Andrés, the first brick and mortar location of the popular Spanish food truck, which has been a D.C. fixture for more than six years.

This quick service restaurant will serve Spanish sandwiches, or bocatas, both hot and cold, as well as gazpacho and salads to go. 

RELATED: A calendar of other openings at Walt Disney World.

And, if the new 22,000 square-foot Jaleo restaurant looks a little familiar – think artichoke.

The architectural form of the building is inspired by an artichoke, a vegetable native to Chef José Andrés homeland. Designed by Spanish designer Juli Capella, the architectural form of the building features petals that organically open. The petals themselves form pergolas, which extend toward the outdoors, allowing light to flow in and out

Jaleo will be open for dinner starting March 17 with lunch service beginning later in the month. Pepe will be open for lunch and dinner beginning March 17, no reservations needed. To make a reservation at Jaleo, please call (321) 348-3211. OpenTable reservations will be accepted for Jaleo on opening day.