It has been 30 years since Toy Story premiered, but the childhood dream of visiting Pizza Planet is finally becoming reality — at least for one weekend. Papa Johns has announced a pop-up in Shoreditch, East London, inspired by the iconic arcade pizzeria first seen in Pixar’s 1995 film. The new venue is designed to transport fans to the iconic location, with plenty of references to Buzz Lightyear and Woody, and of course, ‘The Clawwww’. It has been made in collaboration with Disney and Pixar, ahead of the release of Toy Story 5 on June 19, where the gang will try to overcome the rise of tablets.
There are a couple of glaring issues though — the first being that children are banned from entering the building. Yes, really. Set inside White Rabbit Studios, the temporary venue is designed to recreate the retro-futuristic feel of Pizza Planet, complete with arcade games, claw machines, oversized screens and photo spots. Entry will be completely free across the weekend, with tickets available online. You will have to leave the kids at home though, because the event is strictly for adults over the age of 18.
What’s on at the event?
There will be prizes up for grabs throughout the two-day event, including movie tickets, branded merchandise and even a year’s supply of pizza. The opening times are 12pm-8pm on Saturday June 13 and 11.30am-5.30pm on Sunday June 14.
What’s available to eat?
Papa Johns is also introducing two Toy Story-inspired pizzas – Sheriff’s Roundup and Reach for the Pie – alongside limited-edition packaging, collectibles and merchandise. The Sheriff’s Round Up uses ‘original dough’ with BBQ sauce, mozzarella, grilled chicken and mushroom for the toppings. For vegetarians, the Reach for the Pie is also made with chopped tomatoes, peppers and pepperoncini. There is also a pretty huge problem with the menu. There are currently no vegan or gluten-free options available at the London experience, with organisers telling fans: ‘If you have specific dietary requirements, please contact us and we will do our best to assist.’
While the Shoreditch pop-up is only running for two days, a Toy Story 5 menu collaboration will be available in Papa Johns restaurants globally from 2 June until 19 July. Chris Lyn‑Sue, SVP, General Manager of International at Papa Johns, said: ‘Toy Story is a franchise that has spanned generations, continuing to hold a special place in people’s hearts around the world — much like pizza does around the table.’
The reaction online has been mixed, to say the least. Some Toy Story fans seem to be very enthusiastic about the pop-up. On Instagram @thosegarciagirls said: ‘I found dinner for tonight!’ while @disway80 added: ‘This collab is truly a childhood dream come true!’. A third poster, @ontheredcarpet, added: ‘To infinity and… pizza!!!!’ But the lack of allergy options, plus the strict age restriction, has not gone unnoticed. ‘Why would you guys collab with a literally movie made for CHILDREN and make the event 18+ and older? How does that make sense?’ @naatthaalieee asked. Another parent, @LunaSnowMain, added: ‘You really can’t bring kids to this?’
It seems this is one for the Disney adults only. And vegans and coeliacs? Forget about it.
