ORLANDO, Fla. (March 19, 2004) -- John Montagu, 11th Earl of Sandwich, his son, the Honorable Orlando Montagu and Robert Earl, Planet Hollywood founder, joined forces to open the first EARL OF SANDWICH shop at Downtown Disney Marketplace in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Lord Sandwich was at the Walt Disney World Resort today to celebrate the grand opening of the new store and to officially reclaim his birthright, "the sandwich."
EARL OF SANDWICH is a collaboration between Robert Earl and a direct descendant of the fourth Earl of Sandwich, John Montagu, who is credited with inventing the sandwich in 1762. Now, 242 years later, John Montagu, the 11th Earl of Sandwich, together with his son Orlando have reclaimed and reinvented the greatest of all quick service foods.
The new restaurant seats 220 with half the seating available on an outside terrace for relaxed dining al fresco. Interior décor features a kitchen and service area in full view of the customer to ensure speedy delivery of the hot, fresh sandwiches. The dining area reflects the history of the Earl of Sandwich combined with a contemporary edge. Wall graphics will include photos from the Sandwich family archive and the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, England.
"I am thrilled that our first EARL OF SANDWICH has opened in my backyard," said Earl. "It is especially gratifying to partner with Walt Disney World since we have enjoyed such a long and successful business history."
Added Lord Sandwich, "It is very exciting to be expanding into the United States and launching at Disney. Robert (Earl) and my family have worked together for more than a year to ensure that our food is second to none--it must be perfect because my name is the brand. We are now ready and I am delighted to be here at Disney World for the launch of our first U.S. store."
With a menu featuring a variety of hot, freshly prepared sandwiches served on warm fresh bread and original sauces and spreads, EARL OF SANDWICH is serious about delivering high quality delicious sandwiches. In addition to the signature hot sandwiches the Butler's Pantry is stocked with "grab 'n go" cold sandwiches, side orders and desserts. Freshly prepared salads offer guests an array of healthy choices.
Desserts will not be overlooked with decadent cookie treats prepared three ways--straight from the oven, with a crème filling or served as an irresistible Ice Cream Sandwich. Additional sweet treats include puddings, smoothies, ice cream shakes and coffee drinks.
"The opening of EARL OF SANDWICH provides another great dining experience for guests taking part in the shopping and entertainment fun of Downtown Disney Marketplace," said Ed Baklor, Vice President, Downtown Disney.
EARL OF SANDWICH--The Original Sandwich Since 1762, will be open 7 days a week, all day long serving breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and light supper. Plans call for the Orlando store to be the chain's flagship with many more U.S. sites already in the works. Robert Earl named restaurant operator Gary Davis as CEO of EARL OF SANDWICH. Among his many responsibilities, Davis will be spearheading the aggressive franchise expansion plans for the brand.
The Downtown Disney area is a 120-acre shopping, dining and entertainment metropolis incorporating the Marketplace, Pleasure Island and the West Side, set in a spectacular waterfront location. For more information, call Downtown Disney Guest Information at 407/WDW-2NITE (939-2648) or visit disneyworld.com.
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