Disneyland's oldest employee retires after 60 years of service

ANAHEIM, Calif. (KABC) -- After more than 60 years of serving up magic and memories at The Happiest Place on Earth, Carnation Café chef Oscar Martinez retired on Wednesday.

Martinez has been a staple on Disneyland's Main Street, U.S.A., for decades with his famous recipe for breakfast potatoes and greeting guests.

The theme park's longest-tenured employee said he looks forward to traveling, visiting his family and hopes to find time to relax.

"Oscar has created magic for more than 60 years at the Disneyland Resort," Disneyland Resort President Michael Colglazier said. "He has been an icon to our guests and an inspiration to our cast. We are honored to have worked with him, and we wish him the best in his well-deserved retirement."

The chef said his fondest memory during his time at the resort was seeing Walt Disney walk into the park.

"He said to me, 'Just follow your dream,' and that's what I'm doing," Martinez said.

Disneyland guest Dez Fafara said meeting Martinez is the closest connection he has to Walt Disney, which is "pretty beautiful."

Martinez began working at Disneyland on Dec. 29, 1956, one year after the theme park opened. He originally worked as a busboy and later a grill cook in Fantasyland quick-service. In 1967, Martinez moved to Carnation Café, where he has spent most of his tenure.

His favorite memories involve working with and training many new cast members, including grill cooks for Tokyo Disneyland.

Disneyland guest Anatastia Fafara said there is a lot of wisdom and history in his career, which you can see in his eyes.

"To me, he's just as famous as any of the other characters," Disneyland guest Kathleen McFerrin said. "It's like he's part of Disneyland."

Park guests can still taste some of Martinez's signature potatoes by ordering "Oscar's Choice" at Carnation Café.