Chef Oscar Celebrates 60 Years With Disneyland Resort

DISNEYLAND, CA — If you have ever dined at the famous Disneyland Resort Carnation Cafe on Main Street U.S.A., you may recognize Chef Oscar Martinez.

Chef Oscar is a Disneyland Resort icon, as well as their longest tenured cast member 60 years of tenured service as of December 29.

"Oscar is the longest tenured cast member at Disneyland Resort in terms of continuous service, having worked at Disneyland park since December 29, 1956.

Oscar received his 60 year statue at a celebration with his peers, receiving the one of a kind custom sculpture that bears his likeness.

Kris Theiler, Vice President of Disneyland Park, presented Oscar with the Cinderella themed creation.

"Oscar holds a special spot in the hearts of thousands of cast members," she said.

Oscar started at Carnation Café in 1967. Carnation Café features a menu item “Oscar’s Choice: All American Breakfast,” named in Oscar’s honor and includes his well-known breakfast potatoes.

Originally, Oscar worked in Fantasyland quick service locations. Over the years, Oscar has trained many new cast members, including grill cooks for Tokyo Disneyland.

Fans and friends meet regularly at Carnation Cafe to say hello to Oscar, snap photos and share on social media. He even has his own hashtag: #ChefOscar

Oscar was born in Brownsville, TX, but lived much of his life in Helena, Arkansas, where he worked on a large cattle ranch.

He didn’t have much trouble finding a job when he moved to California in 1956 with his late wife, Shirley.

“I began working at Disneyland one week after I arrived," Chef Oscar said. His wife, Shirley, also worked at Disneyland park from 1956-1959.

If you are visiting Disneyland, drop by Carnation Cafe on Main Street U.S.A. and say hello.

You may want to make an advanced reservation to the popular restaurant.

When you go, ask him about his memories of Walt Disney. Listen to his stories, and remember to order his famous Oscar's Choice All American Breakfast. You'll be glad that you did.