A day at the Animal Kingdom in Walt Disney World can leave guests with a lion-sized appetite. There are plenty of places for fast food and counter-service food, however taking an hour or so to eat inside (especially in the summer) can give guests a much-needed break from the lines and the sun.
Rainforest Café
Situated at the entrance of the Animal Kingdom, The Rainforest Café is usually the most crowded right after the park closes. This is due to the fact that the restaurant stays open a little while longer than the park, and visitors are drawn to the animatronics and enormous fish tank. The main appeal of the Rainforest Café is its jungle theme. Loud moving animals reside near the diners’ tables.
The food is similar to that at a basic chain restaurant such as TGI Fridays or Applebee’s. However, since the restaurant is on Disney property, the prices are much higher. The Rainforest Café is only recommended for children who are not frightened of loud noises and flashes of lights. Though the food is mediocre, the décor is fun and whimsical. If you’re willing to pay the price, it can be a fun escape from the heat.
Yak and Yeti
The Yak and Yeti is the Animal Kingdom’s newest full-service restaurant. Located in the heart of Asia, it is in the perfect spot to have lunch while you wait for your Expedition Everest FastPass time to arrive. There is also a counter service area that serves a few of the same dishes you can get inside the restaurant.
As for food, the Yak and Yeti is very hit or miss. The noodles and wok choices are like those that you can find at most Chinese or Thai takeout spots for much cheaper. There are a few inspired dishes, such as the tamarind chicken and the tasty ribs. The duck and salmon are commonly overcooked, even when asked to be medium or medium-rare. The lettuce wraps and the dim sum are good bets for shared appetizers.
The décor is elaborate, and fits perfectly with the Asian theme. The designed back-story is that the owner of the restaurant is an avid traveler and has filled his property with knickknacks from around Asia. The restaurant has been “aged”, complete with broken tiles and distorted windows. It has been designed to seem as if it has been there for many years.
Tusker House
Tusker House was once a counter service location, but after Restaurantosaurus ended its character breakfast, the Animal Kingdom needed something to replace it. Luckily, the Tusker House closed down its quick service station and welcomed Donald Duck into its doors. From 8:00am until 10:30am, the Tusker House becomes Donald’s Safari breakfast. Donald greets guests at the door while Mickey, Goofy and Daisy pose for pictures with diners.
The menu items are more creative than most breakfast buffets in Walt Disney World. Items include a beef boptie quiche, spiced corned beef hash and a yam casserole. It’s a great place to get away from the norm. Picky eaters will also have the usual option of scrambled eggs, breakfast meats, muffins and cereals. The lunch and dinner buffet at the Tusker House is also very good. Menu items have many African influences and spices. Cape Malay curry chicken and peri-peri marinated salmon filet are great options.
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