Jiko-The Cooking Place at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Review

On our last trip to Walt Disney World we wanted to try a restaurant that we have never been to before. After spending a long day at Magic Kingdom and eating "ok" theme park food, I wanted something unique and different. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge restaurants have always peaked my interest because we love to travel and try unique food. My concern was getting our two daughters on board with African food. Surprisingly, everyone in the family agreed and off we went to try it out. 

The restaurant is located in the lower level of the resort. I recommend asking to be seated in the main restaurant, not the wine room area, especially if you are dining with children. The main dining area has dark ceilings but light walls and a large bank of floor to ceiling windows overlooking part of the beautifully landscaped resort. The main focal point of the restaurant are the two wood-burning ovens. If you look towards the ovens and up to the ceiling you might even spot a hidden Mickey.

The menu is a little daunting at first glance because your eye will immediately focus on the exotic items like Wild Boar and Elk. But if you are not feeling adventurous they have plenty of normal menu options available. We opted to start with the Taste of Africa appetizer which consists of African inspired dips with Naan. This was a great choice for a family. The dips were very tasty and everyone loved the homemade Naan. Our main dishes were Botswana-style Seswaa Beef Short Rib which is a hearty meat and potatoes type of dish and was perfect for my husband. I ordered the West African Koki Corn which is a vegetarian dish. I love meat dishes but it was late at night and I did not want anything to heavy. Both of our daughters ordered the Macaroni & Cheese. Everyone agreed that this was one of the best meals that we have eaten at Walt Disney World. I recommend trying one of their South African wines to pair with your meal. They are known for their huge South African selection and I can say that the wine did not disappoint. 

We will definitely go back to Jiko in the future. Everyone gave it two thumbs up! 

Looking to plan your next trip to Disney? Consider staying at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge so that you can experience Jiko yourself. Contact Premier Travel Escapes to help plan your Magical Disney vacation. Plus a bonus when booking four nights or longer at any Disney property.