Following a year of renovations, the completely rebuilt Empress Lilly reopens today as Paddlefish, the latest addition to the formidable dining line-up at Disney Springs.
Located in The Landing in the space formerly known as Fulton's Crab House, the restaurant has a brand new look both inside and out.
Taking design cues from a modern luxury yacht, the colors palette is a mix of cool grays and whites, providing a distinctly upscale appearance throughout.
The designers have made clever use of the space on all three levels, with multiple bars, lounges and dining rooms.
Starting on the top deck, there is a unique open-air bar and lounge.
Seating is available through the top deck, in large groups, and more intimate tables for two.
Standing tables on the bow of the top deck offer an alternative to the couches and other seating.
The top deck also features private dining and event space.
Moving down to the mid-deck, you will find most of the dining space for lunch and dinner service.
A notable feature of the interior design is how the large restaurant space has been divided up into distinct areas. The restaurant seats nearly 800 guests, but is split into multiple spaces of around 100 guests, and each has its own look.
The lower level offers some beautiful water-side table seating.
Floor-to-ceiling windows mean you can't be much closer to the water.
Behind the paddlewheel on the lower level is more big-city style dining space, something closer to the STK Orlando dining room.
Towards the front on the lower level is the Boil Room, with its open kitchen, bar area, and more casual dining room.
Like the upper level bar, the lower level also has an outdoor deck with open-air bar counter seating.
Paddlefish really shines after dark, with the top deck open-air lounges available to 1am for drinks and small plate menu.
Paddlefish really makes use of its central Disney Springs location and its three story high top deck. The restaurant has arguably the best views in all of Disney Springs.
We will back for a full review of the restaurant and its new seafood-centric menu soon. Based on the pre-opening samples that we got to try, the food has the quality to match the stunning look of the restaurant.
Stars of the seafood menu including Maine lobster, King and Snow crabs and a selection of fresh fish including sea bass, catfish and salmon
Interactive dining experiences include tableside services like Lobster Guacamole and Branzino for Two carved right at your table.
The cocktail menu is inspired by classic, turn-of-the-century American cocktails with a modern spin. Fresh ingredients and spirits that are house made by small craft artisan distillers.
View the full Paddlefish menu. Visit the gallery for more photos and a tour of Paddlefish.
Paddlefish opens to guests on February 4 2017, and offers lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch. Late night drinks and small plates are served until 1am.
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