If you’re looking for the original Ralph Brennan’s Jazz Kitchen menu at Downtown Disney, you might be a little confused when you arrive. Things look different now. In 2023, the iconic spot underwent a massive "reimagining," dropping the traditional French Quarter balcony aesthetic for something sleek and coastal. It’s now officially Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill & Patio.
Honestly, the change sparked some heated debates among Disneyland regulars. Some miss the old-school New Orleans charm, while others appreciate the lighter, breezy California vibe. But here’s the thing: while the building changed, the soul of the kitchen—and the heavy hitters on the menu—stayed surprisingly intact.
The Brennan's Jazz Kitchen Menu Staples That Didn't Go Away
You can’t talk about this place without mentioning the Gumbo Ya-Ya. It’s the benchmark for everything else. They use a dark, rich roux that takes hours to get right, loaded with chicken and andouille sausage. It’s thick, smoky, and usually costs around $14 for a starter bowl. If you’re genuinely hungry, you can upgrade to an entree portion.
Then there’s the Pasta Jambalaya. This is probably the most ordered item on the Brennan's Jazz Kitchen menu. They use spinach fettuccine instead of rice, which is a bit of a curveball if you’re a purist, but the Gulf shrimp and Creole seasoning make it work.
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- NOLA BBQ Shrimp & Grits: These aren't your standard "breakfast" grits. They’re simmered in a New Orleans BBQ sauce—think Worcestershire, lemon, and a massive amount of garlic and butter.
- Blackened Salmon: A solid choice for those who want that "coastal" feel. It comes with a crispy Parmesan grit cake and poblano chili cream.
- Coconut Crusted Gulf Shrimp: Served with pineapple-scented rice, this is one of those dishes that really leans into the new "Coastal Grill" identity.
Why the Beignets are a Whole Different Ballgame Now
The quick-service side of the restaurant also got a facelift and a name change to Beignets Expressed. It used to be a simple window where you grabbed a bag of powdered sugar donuts and moved on. Now, it's a dedicated stage for what they call "glaze & sprinkles."
You can still get the Hot Classic Beignets (usually $9 for a small order of 4), but the draw now is the seasonal stuff. We're talking Snickerdoodle, Cookies & Cream, and even Fruity Cereal glazes. The Bananas Foster Glazed Beignet is a direct nod to the Brennan family’s most famous culinary invention. If you can’t decide, just get the Beignet Quartet. It lets you sample four different glazed versions without having to commit to a full bag of one flavor.
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Cocktails and the "Hidden" Jazz Scene
It’s not just about the food. The drink menu is actually where the "Jazz" part of the name still hits the hardest. The JZK Hurricane is the real deal—Don Q Cristal and Trader Vic’s Dark Rum with a 151 float. It’s strong. Don’t plan on hitting Space Mountain immediately after one of these.
They also do a Praline Cold Brew Martini which has become a bit of a social media darling. It’s Tito’s, cold brew, and praline syrup, topped with a literal mini glazed beignet. It’s basically dessert in a glass.
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Sunday Brunch and Live Music
Sundays are different here. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., they run a Sunday Brunch Fest. You’ll find Bananas Foster French Toast and Cajun Omelets, and if you’re lucky, you’ll catch the strolling musicians. They don't just stay on a stage anymore; they move through the dining rooms, which makes the atmosphere feel way more alive than a standard mall restaurant.
Is it Still Worth the Price?
Prices at Brennan's Jazz Kitchen menu have crept up over the years, mirroring the general trend at Disneyland. You’re looking at $25 to $45 for most dinner entrees. It’s "moderate" by Disney standards, but definitely a splurge for a casual Tuesday.
The real value is often found in the appetizers. The Crab Beignets—savory ones, not the sweet ones—served with lemon aioli are fantastic. Also, the Boudin Balls made with slow-roasted pork and dirty rice are a great way to taste the New Orleans heritage without paying for a full $40 steak.
Quick Facts for Your Visit
- Location: Downtown Disney District, Anaheim.
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially for dinner or Sunday brunch.
- Dress Code: Casual. You’ll see people in Mickey ears and flip-flops next to people on date nights.
- Discounts: Magic Key holders and DVC members usually get 10% off (excluding alcohol).
If you’re planning a visit, your best move is to check the official Disneyland app about 60 days out to snag a table. If you miss the window, the Beignets Expressed line moves fast, and you can take your powdered sugar haul over to the nearby benches to enjoy the live music coming from the main stage.
Check the daily schedule for the strolling jazz ensemble if you want the full experience. They usually start later in the afternoon and play through the evening, turning a standard meal into something that actually feels like a New Orleans block party.