From the Disney Parks Blog and written by: Nicole Cantore
Hello foodies! In case you missed it – last week we launched Disney Eats here on the Disney Parks Blog with a new look and topics page for everything and anything to know about food and beverage. And today, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news through this new brand.
In our latest Disney Eats series Best Bites story, there are three, yes three, restaurants getting some exciting updates in the coming weeks – Tusker House Restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, Kona Cafe at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at EPCOT.
These favorite foodie spots offer unique dining experiences and delicious cuisines that take your taste buds to different cultures across the globe. Not to mention, you may even find some of your favorite characters at two of them.
Beginning Nov. 1, Tusker House Restaurant will be transitioning to an all-you-care-to-enjoy, buffet style dining experience! That means you can go and grab all the food you can handle. What makes this spot nestled in the Harambe Marketplace so special is its menu filled with African-inspired flavors.
There are plenty of dishes to keep your eye (and taste buds) on when this location goes back to a buffet. From breakfast to dinner, you will be more than satisfied. Kickstart your morning at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park with tasty plates, including an assortment of pastries like the Zebra Coffee Cake, breakfast classics like Simba Waffles and Mickey Waffles, and a variety of breakfast meats.
For lunch and dinner, you can indulge in various breads and dips, house specialties like the Spit-roasted Tandoori Chicken and Green Curry Shrimp, plant-based options including the Cauliflower Bunny Chow, and various salads. There are also some classics for the little ones to enjoy like corn dog nuggets and macaroni and cheese to name a few. And don’t worry – there are plenty of desserts to enjoy too!
This adventurous spot not only has mouthwatering eats, but Donald Duck and some of his Disney pals have taken a break from their safari adventure to celebrate with you. Be sure to get a picture and a hug from the gang as they venture around the dining room. Plus, what could be better than characters and food?
Over at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the delicious Kona Cafe will soon be returning from its recent refurbishment. Beginning Nov. 1, you can once again dine at this favorite restaurant but now with a refreshed experience. The look, feel, and even some flavors of this relaxed café will be different, yet familiar. Kona Cafe will feature American cuisine with that Asian flare that makes it so unique and you can still watch the chefs at work in the onstage sushi kitchen.
There are breakfast favorites that have cemented their place on the menu, including the delicious and can’t-miss Tonga Toast and Pineapple Macadamia Nut Pancakes served at breakfast. These two are fan-favorites for a reason. Just take a peek at how tasty they look! Be sure to keep an eye out for several items returning to the menu like the Big Kahuna Burger and Seafood Pu Pu Platter and even a new plant-based offering for dinner, the Sautéed Red Quinoa.
Lastly, I cordially invite you to feast at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall, which will open its doors once again on Nov. 4. This dining experience is found at the Norway pavilion in the World Showcase at EPCOT and gives guests a taste of Norwegian cuisine.
There are plenty of plates at this royal feast, whether you’re looking to indulge in your favorites or wanting to try something new. This family-style dining experience includes Traditional KjØttkaker featuring Norwegian meatballs or the Kylling og Melboller, a Norwegian take on chicken and dumplings. If you’re looking for some more classic American-cuisine, they’ve got that too with Mashed Potatoes and Gravy, Grilled Salmon, and Macaroni & Cheese. And what meal is complete without dessert. The meal serves up both a Rice Cream with strawberry sauce and a Chocolate Roulade with lingonberry cream – yum!
Aside from the delicious eats and treats, what makes Akershus Royal Banquet Hall so special is it being home to a unique Storybook Dining featuring the Disney Princesses. As you indulge in the Norwegian-inspired fare, you can interact, take photos, and create lasting memories with some of your favorite princesses.
Reservations are available now for both Tusker House Restaurant and Kona Cafe and will be opening up for Akershus Royal Banquet Hall starting Oct. 24. You won’t want to miss these on your next visit.
I hope you’re excited for these locations to be returning and getting some new foodie updates. And be sure to show us which one you’re most excited for with #DisneyEats.
Happy eating!
(Note: All offerings are subject to change and availability.)
- The WDW Resort Holidays Foodie Guide 2024 - November 1, 2024
- 7 Exp. at EPCOT Intl. Festival of the Holidays - November 1, 2024
- Counting Down to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Reopening - October 31, 2024