This was just added to the Intercot thread:
To settle any doubt on this issue (although Ed is extremely reliable on these matters ), the following has now been published for Cast Members to pass along to Guests and answer their questions:
Quote:
Exciting new changes are coming to the Italy Pavilion at Epcot that will further enhance the Guest experience.
Our contract with LOriginale Alfredo di Roma Ristorante will reach its conclusion on August 31, 2007. While we have enjoyed working with the Alfredos Group since Epcot opened, we are finalizing plans to develop a new Italian restaurant concept.
This builds upon the original vision for World Showcase, which was designed to continually evolve and offer new Guest experiences that showcase cultures, traditions and immersive entertainment from around the world.
We look forward to announcing more details in true Disney fashion once all the particulars are finalized.
FAQ's
Q1.Why are you making this change?
We have an opportunity to further enhance the Guest experience and build upon the original vision for World Showcase, which was designed to continually evolve and showcase cultures, traditions and immersive entertainment from around the world.
Q2.Why after so many years?
Although it has been a privilege to be the home to Alfredos Restaurant for more than 20 years, Epcot is transitioning to a new Italian dining experience where Italys rich history and vibrant culture will continue to enrich the Guest experience.
Q3.When will Alfredos close?
Alfredos is currently scheduled to close at the end of August 2007.
Q4.When will the new restaurant open?
Although details are still coming together, we expect the restaurant to close temporarily during the transition process.
Q5.What is coming in its place?
While we are not ready to announce this new restaurant, we are currently finalizing negotiations with a strategic partner. We look forward to sharing more details once they are finalized.
Q6.Will this change impact the Food & Wine Festival?
No. Everything will operate as normal for this years International Food & Wine Festival.
Q7.What will happen to the existing employees?
All affected employees will be presented with options, which will vary based on their current job function and individual set of circumstances.
Q8.What if a Guest already has a reservation booked for the restaurant (that occurs after its last day of operations); what should they do?
As of this time, there are no dining reservations booked that will be impacted by this change.
Q9.Has Alfredos Restaurant relocated in the local area?
While Alfredos has an established restaurant in New York City, we have not received any information about a venue in the Central Florida area.
Q10.Will the new Italian dining experience be a part of the Magic Your Way dining plan?
Yes, we expect the new Italian dining experience will participate in the Magic Your Way dining plan.
Q11.Will the new Italian dining experience continue to have Cultural Representatives from Italy to lend to a truly genuine Italian experience?
Yes.
Q12.Will this change impact any other venues within the Italy Pavilion or World Showcase?
No.
Looks like the closure was delayed about 30 days from the original internal announcement, which would explain why reservations were still being accepted for August.
I literally just hung up the phone 15 minutes ago making a ressie for Alfredo's on 8/31. I guess we will be there for the last night!
