Feasting in Paradise: Discovering Disney's 'OHANA Dining Delights

Basic Details and History:

'Ohana, nestled within Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, is a beloved culinary gem in the magical realm of Walt Disney World. With its vibrant Polynesian ambiance and delectable cuisine, it has become a cherished dining destination for families, including ours. We try to get a reservation every time we visit Disney World and if you are a reader of my blog then you know that is usually multiple times per year.

Reservation Difficulty:

Your first task is getting a reservation. Securing a reservation at 'Ohana can be as challenging as snagging a front-row seat at a Broadway show. Even if you attempt to get a reservation 60 days out, the limit that Disney imposes, your odds are low. However, perseverance pays off. Keep checking for openings, especially on your desired day, as last-minute cancellations are not uncommon. We have found that reservations after 9:00 at night tend to open up because people change their plans. It's a testament to its popularity and the anticipation it generates among Disney visitors.

Price:

As with many experiences in the Disney universe, dining at 'Ohana comes with a price tag, albeit a hefty one. For breakfast, adults can expect to shell out around $49 per adult and $30 per child, while dinner can set you back approximately $62 per adult and $40 per child. These prices are likely to change. 'Ohana is included in the Disney Dining Plan as long as you have a plan with table service.

All You Can Eat Extravaganza:

Breakfast at ‘Ohana is a character dining experience with Lilo & Stitch. This article is focusing on the dinner as we have never had breakfast at ‘Ohana, but those reservations tend to be easier to get. When it comes to dinner, prepare your taste buds for an all-you-can-eat adventure served family style. The culinary journey at 'Ohana starts with a tantalizing array of starters, including a crisp mixed green salad with a zesty Citrus Vinaigrette, succulent chicken wings, signature 'Ohana bread, flavorful pork dumplings, noodles, and stir-fry vegetables.

But heed this advice: Save room for the main event—the 'Ohana dinner skillet. This savory spectacle features wood-fire grilled teriyaki beef, peel-and-eat shrimp (albeit with the small inconvenience of peeling them), and tender grilled chicken. The highlight of every 'Ohana visit is the desert. The bread pudding with caramel sauce is a divine finale that will leave even the most discerning dessert enthusiasts swooning.

Changes After COVID:

The pandemic brought forth changes to the dining experience at 'Ohana, not all of which were met with applause. Gone are the days of meat being paraded around on skewers, with guests choosing their cuts akin to a Brazilian steakhouse. Instead, a sizable portion of each offering is now brought to the table, potentially compromising the temperature and freshness of the meats. Some have lamented a perceived decline in meat quality post-COVID.

Be Prepared to Wait:

Even with a reservation, patience is a virtue when dining at 'Ohana. The restaurant's popularity ensures a wait, but fear not—adjacent to 'Ohana lies Tambu Lounge, a haven where you can sip on tropical libations while eagerly awaiting your table. Outdoor seating with attentive service is also available, ensuring that the wait is as pleasant as possible.

In summation, dining at 'Ohana is an experience with Polynesian charm, culinary delights, and a dash of Disney magic. While it may require some effort to secure a spot and adjustments have been made, the enchantment of the 'Ohana experience remains unwavering, making it a must-visit for families seeking a memorable dining adventure at Walt Disney World.