food IS a theme park
We talk a LOT about food in Disney World.
The spread!
We talk about the best snacks, the best eats at the EPCOT festivals, and even some of our favorite entrees to order at table service spots. But you know what gets overlooked? Some of Disney World’s AMAZING appetizers. So today, we’re rounding up 7 of the top appetizers in Disney World to determine which one is the best.
Hey there! Wanna hear a Disney World hotel secret?
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Alright, gather ’round, because I’m about to spill the…chutney? I’m sure you’ve heard the hype about Sanaa over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, and let’s be real — it’s 100% deserved. Now, the star of the show isn’t one of the main entrees or the desserts (even though they’re all delish). No, the true MVP is the Indian-style bread service (iykyk). I bring all that up to say that the secret I’m about to drop on you is the kind of secret that might have you never going to Sanaa again! Are you ready? Once you hear it, you can’t un-hear it. Let’s go!
We are always down for a trip to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Let’s grab some food at Animal Kingdom Lodge!
Not only do you get spectacular views of the savanna, but it is also home to some of our favorite restaurants!
Forget words of affirmation, physical touch, or quality time…our love language is BREAD.
Sourdough Bread at Narcoossee’s
Is there really anything better than stuffing the delicious carby treat in your mouth after you’ve slathered it in butter or jam? (Even better if it’s hot out the oven!) Thankfully, Disney World really gets us. We’re convinced Disney restaurants have made it their personal mission to outdo each other with their bread offerings, and we’re certainly not complaining. But after trying dozens (maybe even hundreds) of breads around Disney World, we’re here to tell you which ones are the BEST!
Welcome to Sanaa Lounge, a cozy spot just inside the entrance to the Table Service restaurant Sanaa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Kidani Village!
Welcome to Sanaa Lounge!
You might have seen Sanaa Lounge before, either on your way into Sanaa or on one of our reviews — like this one of Jiko’s Bain’s Barrel-Aged African Whiskey! But we’re going in to do a full review of JUST the Lounge and see what eats and drinks we can find there! Let’s get going!
Now that Disney World restaurants have started to reopen, a number of changes have been made to dining experiences.
Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge
Sanaa, located in Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Kidani Village is among the Disney World restaurants that’s officially reopened. [Read more…]
You’re in for a treat today, as we visit one of my most favorite Disney World restaurants —
Sanaa.
Sanaa is truly a hidden Disney treasure, and while I hope you all have the opportunity to enjoy it, honestly, I hope the word never totally gets out!
I know that may sound selfish, but Sanaa is a favorite of mine for many, many reasons. In addition to a number of truly exquisite meals in the past, I also appreciate the quiet atmosphere. And it’s never been difficult to get an Advance Dining Reservation here — even at the last minute.
There had been some changes in the menu since I visited last, so I was anxious to book dinner at Sanaa on a recent trip to see if it’s still just as wonderful as it’s always been.
Sanaa is a hidden gem in part because it’s actually somewhat hidden. To get to Sanaa, you’ll need to head to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Once there, look for signs pointing you toward Kidani Village, the Disney Vacation Club portion of the resort.
Outside of Sanaa
As with all of the other restaurants at Animal Kingdom Lodge, Sanaa has been thoughtfully named. The word “sanaa” is Swahili for “art”. Step up to the restaurant’s entrance, and you start to see why. Hand woven trays decorate the area behind the podium and beautiful beads line the counter.
Sanaa check-in
Be on the lookout for this guy though. (We’re talking about the Hidden Mickey…not the bird. 🙂 ) You’ll catch a an artistically rendered glimpse or two of him throughout the area.
Hidden Mickey at Sanaa’s Entrance
One of my favorite touches are the African Proverbs that you’ll find on walls throughout Kidani Village. Think about it for a while!
African Proverb and Beads
While you wait for your table — and the wait isn’t likely to be long — you’ll get your first glimpse of Sunset Savanna. Keep your eyes peeled. The area is home to dozens of birds and animals, including gazelles, zebras, cranes, ostriches, and more. And right outside THESE windows, you my get to see a tortoise or two.
Windows in Sanaa’s Waiting Area
En route to your table, you’ll pass the Lounge. This is one of my favorite spots to relax and unwind.
Bar Area
Because it’s opened continuously from 11:30 to midnight, it’s a good option if you’re looking for a meal at one of those in-between times, or you just want to meet friends for a quiet night cap.
Bar Seating
This is a detail that I love about Animal Kingdom Lodge (and most spots in Disney, actually) — no space is left untouched. Check out the rich detail on the ceiling in the bar area, which provides a subtle sense of definition…
Ceiling Detail in the Bar
…And this is what I mean. Once you enter the main restaurant, you leave the “building” of the entrance, and you’re under the canopy of a sprawling acacia tree.
Atmosphere
It blends beautifully with the wide-arched picture windows, and melds the interior with the exterior.
Request a window-side table, and you’ll enjoy great views of the savanna as you dine.
Window Seating
Chances are pretty good that you’ll even see a few of these guys.
And it’s a good time to note — the ever-changing parade of wildlife outside the windows is a great diversion for little people in your group! There are few better ways to distract a toddler than by pointing out real life zebras!
Sanaa’s View
Seating is broken up into small alcoves, and tables and chairs are fashioned with the same artisan detail as other surroundings. The mismatched chairs give the space an eclectic feel.
Seating and Atmosphere
Padded booths also offer a cozy option, if you prefer extra comfort to views.
Seating and Rich Ceiling and Lighting Detail
Another Mickey and Round Booth Seating
And remember when I said to keep an eye out for Mickey sightings? 🙂
Hidden Mickey on a Table
Because the restaurant is decorated to resemble an East African spice market, you’ll find some interesting elements. I always stop to take in this [Read more…]
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