WDW Daily News

With an imaginative, playful design that tells the story of a man who loved the adventure of flight, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is open along the waterfront at Downtown Disney at Walt Disney World Resort.

The cozy lounge with spacious outdoor seating features light bites and drinks inspired by Jock’s globe-trotting, including a stint as the pilot for Indiana Jones in “Raiders of the Lost Ark.”

“Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar fits into the storytelling of Disney Springs – a town that grew up over time,” says Theron Skees of Walt Disney Imagineering.

The space is layered with all of the adventures that Jock went on his career, says Skees. “It’s all about Jock’s love of flying and his collection over the years.”

The inspired atmosphere is in the details, from spare airplane parts to nostalgic postcards and antique maps tacked to the walls.

Walt Disney Imagineers weave a tale of Jock’s high-flying life, with the pilot making his home at Disney Springs in the 1940s after discovering the charming little town while flying over the Sunshine State in 1938 search of the elusive Fountain of Youth.

One of the architectural focal points of the lounge is the lamella ceiling, a specific type of timber construction that was popular in airplane hangars in the 1940s. The open framework creates a lightness in the cozy room. Fanciful details include an antique dive bell, from Jock’s adventures at sea, now with a curved bench for private seating.

And the expansive waterfront bar is a nod to his travels around the world, with photos of Jock and his pals tasting exotic fare. But the real architectural showstopper is Reggie, Jock’s canvas-covered steamboat, named for his pet snake. Now in dry dock, it stretches out into the water, a spectacular spot for light bites and sunset-watching

Though Jock may be gone, his tales live on at this exotic watering hole.  And that’s what gives the place its charm – and a creative menu of adventurous tastes.

Each of the small plates on the opening menu has a delicious twist. Dr. Elsa’s She-Deviled Eggs are brined in beet juice with lump crab filling. “Good” Dates features goat cheese-stuffed dates with Marcona almonds and pickled veggies. Snack of Ra gives a taste of Africa with salads and dips served with injera (bread) and naan crisps. Tanis Tacos are filled with falafel, shredded lettuce and cucumber-tomato salad. The pretzels come with house-made mustard and beer-cheese fondue.

A little more substantial are the Rolling Boulder Sliders with three spice meatballs on mini-buns with yogurt sauce.  Or Brody Brats, grilled bratwurst with mustard and pickled cabbage. The Hangar’s take on chicken wings features spicy Asian wings (called “Lao Che’s Revenge”). And “Squid! Why’d It Have to Be Squid” is fried calamari flatbread with spicy harissa.

Along with beer and wine, mixologists are having fun with cocktails, such as the Cool-Headed Monkey, The Scottish Professor, Reggie’s Revenge and Anything Goes, all crafted with spirits from around the globe.

Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar is open from 11:30 a.m. to midnight Sunday through Thursday, and until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday (no reservations).

Located between Paradiso 37 and The BOATHOUSE restaurant at Downtown Disney, the new lounge is part of the largest expansion in Downtown Disney history, which will transform the area into Disney Springs, a lively shopping, dining and entertainment destination. Guests at Disney Springs will have a unique Disney experience amid beautiful open-air promenades, flowing springs and waterfront charm.