Plaza Pizza closes in Horizon West

Playa Pizza is the latest restaurant to close in Horizon West.

The pizzeria, located off Reams Road at the back of Walt Disney World, served its final pies Dec. 31, 2024.

Restaurant officials announced the closure via Facebook.

“It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the closure of Playa Pizza,” they wrote. “This decision has not been made lightly, and it comes after an exhausting and relentless legal battle that has ultimately left us with no choice but to close our doors.”

Officials said the restaurant faced numerous financial and legal issues stemming from the interior build-out of the restaurant, 3211 Reams Road, Suite 108, Windermere.

“What should have been a straightforward 90-day interior build-out, managed by the original general contractor hired for this purpose, quickly spiraled into an 18-month construction project and ongoing legal battle,” they wrote “This issue — which began before we even opened — has continued to drain our time, resources and energy, pushing us into a legal battle that is approaching three years, yet seems to be never-ending.”

During its operation, Playa Pizza served as a community hub for the Horizon West community. It employed more than 150 people, and its owners actively pursued employing individuals with disabilities and those representing neurodiverse communities. 

The restaurant hosted a variety of events, including trivia nights and a Pizza & Politics series during the 2024 election cycle. It also was a popular location to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

“Saying goodbye is never easy, and we are heartbroken that we couldn't see Playa Pizza grow and evolve as we had dreamed,” officials wrote. “Looking ahead, we are unsure whether there will be a new location. We have tried for a long time to find a suitable spot but have yet to succeed in securing one. If you know of a location that would welcome us, or are interested in investing in a place of your own in whatever town you may be in, please reach out. We believe we have an amazing brand, superior recipes and valuable intellectual property, and we would love to see Playa Pizza continue in some form.” 

On Jan. 2, the restaurant hosted a Cast Member Garage Sale to sell a variety of restaurant items and equipment.