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There’s ONE WEEK Left to Ride Disney World’s Jungle Cruise Before 2-Month CLOSURE

There are rough waters ahead for an iconic Disney World attraction.

Refurbishments are a part of life at Walt Disney World, with at least one of the resort’s premier attractions down at any given time, with recent examples including the just reopened Peter Pan’s Flight at the Magic Kingdom and the ongoing reinvention of Test Track at EPCOT. In one week, a Magic Kingdom staple will be joining the 2024 closure list.

On August 26th, the World Famous Jungle Cruise will be closing for nearly two months, with a reopening currently scheduled for October 17th as per Disney World’s calendar. The refurbishment will be the first large-scale one for the opening day attraction since 2017 and will keep it from being available during the majority of the 2024 run of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

We expect the ride to reopen as its normal self in October and then receive its traditional Christmas-themed Jingle Cruise holiday overlay in November as usual.

If you’re visiting the Magic Kingdom during the closure and still want to scratch your Jungle Cruise itch, we’d recommend a meal at the Skipper Canteen restaurant. This Adventureland eating establishment is themed to the ride, specifically, the idea that the “same skippers who guided your steamer down the Nile, Amazon and Congo Rivers have opened the doors and kitchens of their tropical headquarters to fellow adventurers and famished families like your own!”

The restaurant’s dining room and menu are filled with references to the ride, and the overall S.E.A. mythos that Disney has integrated into rides and attractions around the world.

Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen Restaurant

The Jungle Cruise has gone through a fair share of changes over the years. Early on, the original Jungle Cruise at Disneyland — an opening day attraction at Walt’s first park — was played completely straight as it were, presenting a “serious” trip through nature. In the early 1960s, noted Imagineer Marc Davis brought humor to the attraction, integrating comical scenes and the “dad joke’ script that have become the Jungle Cruise’s most famous elements, and were already a major part of the attraction when it opened in Florida along with the Magic Kingdom in 1971.

Both the Disneyland and Disney World versions of the ride went through major storyline changes in 2021, when Disney removed some problematic story elements including the “headhunter” party as well as the Trader Sam “head salesman” character.

At the time, Carmen Smith, a creative development and inclusion strategies executive at Walt Disney Imagineering, explained the changes in a statement to the Los Angeles Times, saying: “As Imagineers, it is our responsibility to ensure experiences we create and stories we share reflect the voices and perspectives of the world around us. With Jungle Cruise, we’re bringing to life more of what people love – the humor and wit of our incredible skippers — while making needed updates.”

The Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise will be closing August 26th — ONE WEEK from today — for a near-two-month refurbishment. Stay tuned to AllEars for further updates on the Disney World calendar.

Marc Davis: The Imagineer Who Crafted Modern Disney Parks

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Are you heading to the Magic Kingdom during the Jungle Cruise’s closure? Will you miss the iconic attraction? Let us know in the comments below.

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2 Replies to “There’s ONE WEEK Left to Ride Disney World’s Jungle Cruise Before 2-Month CLOSURE”

I’m sure it will be more politically correct.

….as it should be. And it won’t impact your life one single bit.

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Skipper Canteen Review

Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World is a Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant. This review features food photos and our thoughts on the ambiance and experience of dining at this new table service spot in Adventureland. ( Updated July 6, 2020 .)

The menu at Skipper Canteen is “daring” (odd word choice, but I didn’t want to go for the obvious “adventurous” pun, but I guess I’ve done that anyway with this parenthetical) by Magic Kingdom standards, making it an interesting place to try. Additionally, Skipper Canteen accepts the Tables in Wonderland card for 20% off.

Note that when Magic Kingdom reopens on July 11, 2020, it will do so with a limited slate of restaurants (see our List of Reopening & Closed In-Park Restaurants at Walt Disney World ). Additionally, most restaurants will offer scaled-back menus at first, which includes Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen. As such, some of the items reviewed here may not be available in the near future…

When Skipper Canteen was first announced, the concept reminded me of three different restaurants: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto , The Explorer’s Club Restaurant , and Magellan’s . These are three of my favorite Disney restaurants/bars anywhere, each being exquisitely done thematically. If it could live up to the reputation of any of these, it would be a huge success for me, especially since it was previously a vacant location in the Magic Kingdom.

Did it live up to my lofty expectations? Well, let’s start with thematics, and go on a bit of a photo tour of Skipper Canteen…

Prior to closing in 1994, this location housed the Adventureland Veranda , a counter service restaurant with interiors designed by Disney Legend Dorothea Redmond .

Since then, it’s been largely neglected, used during hard ticket parties for makeshift meet & greets, and also housing Tinker Bell and her pixie homies for a spell. Unless Skipper Canteen were botched significantly, this would be an upgrade from all that nonsense, at absolute minimum.

Fortunately, Skipper Canteen is a huge upgrade.

Many of the Dorothea Redmond interiors remain intact, and portions of the restaurant are 1971 opening day Magic Kingdom originals. Alongside that, there are new design elements and decor that have been added, providing added texture and newness that compliments that original design.

This is especially evident in the lobby and the main dining room, the Crew’s Mess Hall. This is a light, breezy area where the colors pop and texture is provided through details along the walls and overhead.

We dined in here for my second meal at Skipper Canteen, and although it’s my least favorite of the rooms, that’s relative. I’d still take this over almost any themed area at other Magic Kingdom restaurants.

Despite being called a “mess hall” (words you never want associated with a table service restaurant) this area succeeds in not feeling over-crowded thanks to the spacing of the tables and the airy feeling of the restaurant. It almost reminds me of the type of restaurant you’d find in the South Seas, or heck, even Florida.

I’m a bit surprised it doesn’t have an open air component. (My biggest disappointment is that the remaining verandas outside are sitting unused…perhaps that’s why “Adventureland Veranda” wasn’t chosen as a name?)

For my first meal, I was seated in the S.E.A. Room–a secret meeting place for the Society of Explorers and Adventurers.

I’m a huge fan of S.E.A. (despite it shunning Disney’s greatest explorer: Duffy the Bear) and the way it has weaved together multiple attractions and restaurants from around the world with this common motif.

There must be some Imagineers who are big fans of S.E.A., too, because it’s been showing up in more and more projects as of late.

This room reminded me a lot of the hidden wine cellar in Magellan’s at Tokyo DisneySea.

While there’s a coolness to that wine cellar actually being a secret room, the S.E.A. Room at Skipper Canteen works better because it conveys the stately elegance that you’d expect from a meeting place of people of such status as the members of S.E.A.

It’s not quite as ornate and lavish as Magellan’s as a whole, but this room works really well in the context of Skipper Canteen, and is my favorite room of the bunch. It is warm, intimate, and rife with detail.

You could probably spend hours just looking at the book shelfs trying to place all of the references.

I spotted about 20, including this to the extinct Tokyo DisneySea show, Legend of Mythica . I suspect every title or author name contains such a reference to Disney history, some more obscure than others (at least a couple were probably lost on me).

From the secluded “Butterfly Booth” to the tables by the fireplace to the sea mural, every seat here offers a unique draw.

This room is really a treat, and for me, exemplifies how this space was repurposed in a way that was respectful to the original Adventureland Veranda, while bringing something new to the table.

I am slightly concerned about the potential for overuse of S.E.A. and the Navigation Co., as both are very self-referential.

There’s a fine line between respectful, self-referential homage and over-the-top fan service. A location should stand on its own thematically, adding to a common theme, rather than devolving into a simple tribute.

Thankfully, these are only cautionary words (in my opinion) as Skipper Canteen stays on the right side of that line, keeping its references to respectful homage.

Some things could stand to be a little more subtle, but by and large, it’s all well done.

The final room is the Jungle Room, which is the former Falls’ family parlor. This is the only room in which we haven’t dined, but we spent some time exploring it, and I rather enjoyed this room as well.

Thanks to stained glass lights and parrot light fixtures, it has a vibrant sense of the tropics, with the carpet, ceiling, and fireplace offsetting that with a bit of formality.

Texture and depth are words that keep coming to mind when describing the rooms of Skipper Canteen, and that’s true again of the Jungle Room. My favorite of these details is–by far–the parrot light fixtures.

I’m currently putting together a caper to heist one with the help of Bill Murray and the Wu Tang Clan . I’ll keep you posted on our progress.

All in all, I’m pleased with the theming at Skipper Canteen. It’s more restrained than other recent high-key efforts like Jock Lindsay’s Hangar Bar and Trader Sam’s, and in this case, I think that’s a good thing.

The aforementioned bars work in their own ways, but I’m not sure if that would have been the case at this table service spot. At some point, a high-level of decor crosses from appropriate theming to looking like the lair of a hoarder, and that does not occur here.

There’s plenty to see, explore, and discover without wondering if some of the Jungle Cruise skippers need a Buried Alive intervention. My only complaint is that some aspects of the S.E.A. room do feel a bit overly-new, but I can’t recall any specific examples to cite, so this is a minor quibble.

Phew. That’s been an abnormal amount of text devoted to theme. Now, for the menu. I’m almost not even sure it’s worth bothering. Skipper Canteen has a very ambitious menu.

It’s far more adventurous than anything else in the Magic Kingdom, and as such, I would not be surprised to see this menu change dramatically at some point. Still, the inveterate optimist in me hopes that the restaurant retains this menu, so I’ll cover each of the dishes we tried.

The meal starts with bread and a honey dip.

I was unimpressed by the bland loaf, and the honey only improved things a tad.

For my first visit, I started with the S.E.A. Shu Mai. This is 6 pork, shrimp and mung bean mixed dumplings presented in a metal container. From the first bite, I knew this wasn’t your average Magic Kingdom restaurant. These bad boys had a spice that I was not expecting.

They weren’t spicy, per se, but rather, they had a complexity more akin to an authentic Chinese restaurant than anything at Walt Disney World–and that includes World Showcase. Highly recommended.

After the unexpected taste of the shu mai, I was really excited for Skipper Canteen’s take on lamb chops. Well, the Grilled Lamb Chops were definitely…different.

They were incredibly thinly sliced, which really subdued the natural, distinct flavor of lamb (something I really like, but your mileage may vary). The berber spice was a nice addition, but not enough. Much to my surprise, the green lentil stew was actually the highlight, and had a delicious flavor to it. Still, not enough for me to recommend this dish. It was good, but should have been better.

For the second visit, we started with the Falls Family Falafel.

This was Sarah’s choice, as I’m not the biggest fan of falafel. Despite that, I thought these had a good texture, with the garlic and herbs carrying this dish. The dip and tomato-cucumber salad actually made it good, which is more than I can say about most falafel. Again, I’m the wrong person to ask on this, though.

Sarah had the Rice Noodle Bowl with Chicken, which she really enjoyed.

The herbs and fresh (she emphasized this) jalapeños mixed well with the perfectly-cooked vegetables, and the chicken breast provided heartiness to the otherwise light dish. Sarah highly recommends this.

For this meal, I had the Char Siu Pork. After the disappointment of the lamb, this was a rousing success. These pork medallions were some of the most tender pork I’ve tasted in a long time. The char sui marinade really did the trick here, as these were flavorful without tasting like they were soaked in a vat of mystery sodium-sauce. This carnivorous-perfection was accompanied by some vegetables and rice, neither of which were particularly noteworthy, but were nice filler. I’d definitely recommend this.

Several friends also joined us for this meal as we celebrated our conquest of Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend with a grand circle tour of Disney restaurants. I’ll summarily cover their meals with photos and passing thoughts…

First up is the Skip’s Mac & Cheese, which a couple of people at our table ordered.

I really wanted to get this, but as someone who constantly whines about Walt Disney World menus being too vanilla, I felt it would be hypocritical of me to opt for this. It seemed to be a hit among our group, with the sentiment being that the meat gave oomph to the dish.

The Dr. Falls’ Signature Grilled Steak was another dish that tempted me, but I ultimately refrained due to the price.

The presentation of this dish was excellent, and our friend who ordered it, and liked it.

Another of our friends had the Curried Vegetable Crew Stew, which he really seemed to like.

He commented that the sweetness of the squash provided a nice counter-balance to the spices of the curry. This looked like a fairly large dish to me, and good value for its price point.

Someone else ordered the “A lot at Steak” Salad. I don’t recall them having a strong opinion on this one way or the other, but the steak on the salad looked nice.

During this meal, we overheard an adjacent table whose kids ordered something off the menu at Liberty Tree Tavern. I mention this in case the menu options at Skipper Canteen are too adventurous for your kids, now you know that might be an option.

The kids menu seems pretty standard to me, but what do I know. Besides, introducing things outside of kids’ comfort zones at a young age builds character and teaches them that the world won’t cater to their every whim. (Just wait until I inflict my uninformed and impractical views about parenting on you all with “Tom’s Absurd Parenting Blog” 😉 )

Then there’s dessert. We tried one and some friends tried another (the Kungaloosh!, above and the Coconut Bar with Pineapple-Basil Compote and Vanilla Cream, below) and both were, in a word, small.

They were good desserts (especially the coconut bar!), but were more “fine dining” style desserts.

Interesting, I think the same could be said about several of the plates at Skipper Canteen. The presentation and plating of some items suggests an almost Signature-caliber restaurant, but the ambiance says otherwise. I certainly wouldn’t peg it as fine dining, but its menu is on the upper end of standard table service.

I’ve heard many people comment on prices, but I wouldn’t say its particularly expensive by table service restaurants standards. This is especially true when you consider quality. At most, Skipper Canteen’s prices are a couple of dollars higher than comparable entrees elsewhere, but significantly higher in terms of quality.

Overall, Skipper Canteen is not a grand slam, but it’s an in-the-park home run. Of the Magic Kingdom table service restaurants I’ve done, this is the clear winner in terms of both ambiance and cuisine (Sarah puts it #2 behind Be Our Guest Restuarant’s dinner), and its interesting cuisine should be lauded, even if there are a couple of misfires. I love comfort foods, but this is definitely an improvement over most table service options in the Magic Kingdom.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. Want more dining tips? Check out our 101 Delicious Walt Disney World Dining Tips . If you are planning a Walt Disney World trip, make sure to also read our comprehensive Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide to make the most of your experience!

Your Thoughts

Are you intrigued by the menu or theme at Skipper Canteen? Planning on dining here? Have you already dined here? Do you agree or disagree with our restaurant review? Any questions we can help you answer? Hearing your feedback–even when you disagree with us–is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

Maybe this is a silly question, but is “S.E.A.” pronounced as the three letters “S-E-A”, or like the word “sea”? I would like to request that room when we eat there but not sure how to say it correctly! 🙂

As three letters! 🙂

Interesting. I’ve eaten there at least three times, and it’s always been great. I think the food and decor are BETTER than BOG, especially the decor. The menu is a little light. I’d like to see a perfect Thai Beef Salad, although the spicy noodles are pretty good and filling.

I seem to recall hearing that at least some of the butterflies are from the collection of Lillian Disney or someone in the family. Maybe that was untrue, but either way they are really nice to see and a great thematic addition.

Don’t ever be talking smack about Jock Lindsey’s! It’s one of the few reasons to even go to Disney Springs, along with Raglan Road…

we have not dined here as of yet, but it’s on my “eventually” list. as we have young kids, the menu was too adventurous looking to try until the kids age a bit (but good to know about being able to order from LTT). that said, friends of ours with a preschooler, and who have multiple food allergy issues in the family RAVE about skipper canteen. it is evidently extremely allergy friendly, for anyone curious. they cannot eat at many in-park restaurants due to cross-contamination concerns, but will eat multiple meals here without worry.

You’ve spoiled the secret Tom! Skippers is usually an easy place to make ADR’s and you don’t have to do it 180 days in advance, sometimes there are same day ressies. Not anymore with your glowing review. Lol This is one of our favorite restaurants. We have visited a few times and have enjoyed every single meal. We are Asian-American and the flavors are authentic without being too exotic for uninitiated guest. A good place to try out some good Asian-type food. FYI: The head chef who started Skippers Canteen and developed the menu used to be a chef at Le Cellier in Epcot. That could explain the really fancy desserts (which are really good too, BTW!). I’m on the same page with Tom and am all for having my kids try new flavors. I feel like I’m doing them a disservice if I don’t expose them to all the delicious cuisines available. They can choose not to eat something only after they’ve tried at least one bite. My kids usually end up liking their food so much that they will polish it off and ask for more!

We ended up going here for an early dinner before MVMCP in December and we were not disappointed. I agree that it’s probably the best table service restaurant in Magic Kingdom, or a close second to Be Our Guest. Our entire party enjoyed everything we ordered and, as a long time fan of Jungle Cruise, I loved the kitsch and the waiter’s jokes. Truly a hidden gem!

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Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen

Ranked #27 of 97 Table Service Options at Walt Disney World Located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom

Last updated: August 23, 2024

At a Glance

Magic Kingdom in Adventureland

Char siu pork, steak, corn pancakes topped with mojo pork

Lunch: Adult $12-38 Dinner: Adult $12-38

• Lunch: 11 AM to 3 PM
• Dinner: 3 PM to 9 PM (or park close)

Beer and wine only.

Limited selection of beer and wine available.

1 TS credit

• WDW Passholder: 10%

Menus & Prices

Frequently Asked Questions

tabs#change" class="xs:text-18 md:text-30 font-light text-tp-black-300 xs:leading-7 md:leading-46 cursor-pointer"> What should you know?

tabs#change" class="xs:text-18 md:text-30 font-light text-tp-black-300 xs:leading-7 md:leading-46 cursor-pointer"> What’s it like inside?

tabs#change" class="xs:text-18 md:text-30 font-light text-tp-black-300 xs:leading-7 md:leading-46 cursor-pointer"> What are the specialties?

tabs#change" class="xs:text-18 md:text-30 font-light text-tp-black-300 xs:leading-7 md:leading-46 cursor-pointer"> Any discounts?

What should you know?

Skipper Canteen has fresh flavors and fine service. The menu decidedly doesn't cater to simpler tastes and aims higher than it can sometimes achieve, but any in-park restaurant that identifies its fish option as “not piranha” is OK in our book.

What’s it like inside?

Designed as the home of off-duty Jungle Cruise skippers, Skipper Canteen offers guests an oasis from the theme park with three distinct dining rooms (and a boatload of corny jokes).

The crew’s dining spot features high ceilings, dark wooden fixtures, and souvenirs collected from skippers’ travels bathed in stained glass window–tinted natural light. Behind a hidden bookcase (with highly amusing book titles), guests can visit the secret meeting room of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers, filled with posh fixtures, maps, and a beautiful collection of butterflies.

The Jungle Room completes the dining set, with intimate seating near intricately carved wood bookshelves and colorful stained glass lamps.

What are the specialties?

The menu features flavors from several world cuisines, with Asian influences in the char siu pork (a house favorite). Latin flavors make their way into whatever cut of steak the Canteen is currently featuring, as well as the house-made cachapas (corn pancakes) topped with pork and avocado cream.

Any discounts?

Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen offers the following discounts:

Other Dining Options You might enjoy the following alternatives to Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen:

Rosa Mexicano

Liberty Tree Tavern

The Crystal Palace

Cinderella's Royal Table

The Plaza Restaurant

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Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen

• Casual Dining

Valid admission required. A theme park reservation may be required based on admission type.

An Important Message 

To dine at an in-park table-service restaurant, a confirmed dining reservation for the total number of Guests—regardless of age—is highly recommended.   Theme park reservations may be required based on admission type. Dining reservations do not guarantee access to a park, and Park Hopper availability may change daily.

Meal Pricing

Welcome to the jungle.

Explore the bold, flavorful cuisine of Asia, South America and Africa with the help of our daring riverboat pilots.

Dr. Falls, I Presume? Immerse yourself in the legacy of the Jungle Cruise! The same skippers who guided your steamer down the Nile, Amazon and Congo Rivers have opened the doors and kitchens of their tropical headquarters to fellow adventurers and famished families like your own!

Delight your big and little explorers with premium table-service dining in 3 curiously quirky rooms: the crew’s colonial-era Mess Hall (which is not messy at all, thank you very much); the Jungle Room, former family parlor of Dr. Albert Falls himself; and the S.E.A. Room—a once-secret meeting place for the Society of Explorers and Adventurers!

World-Famous Jungle Cuisine Prepare your palate for exotic flavor adventures sure to tame your wildest appetite—and pickiest eaters!

Begin your culinary cruise with Orinoco Ida's Cachapas, an appetizer featuring house-made corn pancakes, beer-braised pork, Fresno pepper salsa and avocado cream. For your main dish, feast on Dr. Falls Signature Steak—a marinated grilled steak lomo saltado-style with roasted peppers, onion, tomatoes and aji amarillo aїoli. If you’re craving lighter fare, try the sustainable fish served over bok choy, lotus root, bell peppers and shiitake mushrooms in a light ginger-lemon grass broth.

End your lunch or dinner with sweet memories of Panna-Connie's Congo Lime Delight, consisting of mango-lime sorbet, fresh fruit and a Brazil nut cookie—or the Kungaloosh, featuring African-inspired chocolate cake with caramelized bananas and cashew-caramel ice cream.

Cancellations and Modifications

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Home » Walt Disney World » Magic kingdom » Dining

Review: Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen Dinner (Menu, Prices, Info)

By Author Ziggy Oskwarek

Posted on Last updated: January 7, 2021

• Pinterest 141

The Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen (man that’s one heck of a name) is a  Table Service Restaurant located in Adventureland in Disney’s Magic Kingdom.  It requires 1 Table Dining Credit if you are using the Disney Dining Plan.  

It also participates in Tables in Wonderland which gives you a 20% discount on your food and drinks, so that is a big help in paying for your meals.  Skipper Canteen does accept ADR’s 180 Days in advance, and while Skipper Canteen isn’t the most popular restaurant in Walt Disney World, seeing as it’s located in the Magic Kingdom, it’s a good idea to book a reservation ASAP, especially in the busier times of year.

Expect to find the flavorful cuisine of Asia, South America , and Africa at the Skipper Canteen.  However, even though it’s exotic, it also caters to the most simple palates too.  Some of the famous dishes are: Trader Sam’s Head-On Shrimp, Char Siu Pork, S.E.A. Shu Mai, plus Steak, Salads, Fish and Lamb Chops.

Scroll down for the Menu and My Full Review of the restaurant…

Table of Contents

Jungle Navigation Skipper Canteen Menu (Lunch/Dinner)

*(Last Updated 10/18/19) – If you have any Menu updates or corrections please let us know!

Appetizers:

S.E.A. Shu Mai A blend of Pork, Shrimp, Edamame Beans, and Spices wrapped in Gyoza Skin then steamed

Falls Family Falafel A secret recipe of Chickpeas, Garlic, Onions, Lemon Juice, and Herbs served with House-made Edamame Hummus and Toasted Pumpkin Seeds

Shiriki Noodle Salad Noodles, Edamame Beans, Mushrooms, Green Mango, and Cucumber tossed with a Sweet Chili Sauce. Famously served at Hotel Hightower on December 31, 1899

Jungle Green Salad Iceberg Wedge with Shishito Peppers, Radish, Hearts of Palm, Cucumbers, and Pistachios with an Ají Pepper-Yogurt Dressing

Lost and Found Soup Chef’s Seasonal Soup prepared with the freshest unclaimed cargo! Please ask you Skipper for today’s selection

Orinoco Ida’s Cachapas House-made Corn Pancakes, Mojo-braised Pork, Black Bean Salad, and Avocado Cream

Entreés:

Dr. Falls’ Signature Grilled Steak

Marinated New York Strip, Pico de Gallo Butter, Jasmine Rice, and Braised Black Beans with Applewood-smoked Bacon

”Tastes Like Chicken” Because it is

Crispy-fried Chicken served with Jasmine Rice, Chili Glaze, and Seasonal Vegetables

Curried Vegetable Crew Stew

a favorite of the Crew Stew Crew (especially Stu). Seasonal Vegetables and pineapple Tofu in a House-made Curry Sauce served with Coconut Rice

”Hardy Har Char” Siu Pork

Char Siu-marinated Pork served with Seasonal Vegetables and Jasmine Rice

Whole Fried Fish

You’ll get hooked on Skipper Annette’s latest catch! Served with House-made Kimchi and a Soy-Ginger Vinaigrette

Sustainable Fish

“Not Piranha,” served over Spiced Couscous and Black Garlic Aïoli in a fragrant Basil-Lemon Grass Broth

Perkins Thai Noodles

Chicken, Tofu, Seasonal Vegetables, and Rice Noodles tossed in a Spicy Soy-Chili Garlic Sauce. A favorite of our friend Pamelia Perkins, President of the Adventurers Club

Sankuru Sadie’s Seafood Stew

Shrimp, Sustainable Fish, Mussels, and Octopus simmered in a fragrant Coconut Sauce. Served with Jasmine Rice

Trader Lamb

Spice-rubbed Lamb Chops, Roasted Vegetables with a Brown Butter-Tomato Sauce, drizzled with Ras El Hanout Oil

“A Lot at Steak” Salad

We’re betting it all on this one! Grilled Steak, Romaine Lettuce, Spring Mix, Pickled Jalapeños, Red Onion, Queso Fresco, and Pumpkin Seeds tossed in a Chimichurri Vinaigrette

Kungaloosh!

An African-inspired Chocolate Cake with Caramelized Bananas served with Cashew-Caramel Ice Cream topped with Coffee Dust

Quick Sand!!!

Jasmine Rice Pudding, Mango Sauce, Lemon Curd, Hibiscus Meringue, and Pineapple

Panna-Connie’s Congo Lime Delight

Lime ‘Panna Cotta’ served with Mango-Lime Sorbet, Fresh Fruit, and a Brazil Nut Cookie

Coconut Bar with Pineapple-Basil Compote and Vanilla Cream

Vanilla Chiffon Cake with Coconut and Lime-White Chocolate Ganache

Soft Drinks

Bottled Water, Fountain Sodas

Espresso, Cappuccino, and Latte

Don Miguel Gascón Malbec, Beso Del Sol Red Sangria, Dr. Loosen ‘Dr. L’ Rielsing, Infamous Goose Sauvginon Blanc, Franciscan Chardonnay, King Estate Pinot Noir, Iron Horse ‘Fairy Tale Celebration Cuvée’ Brut

Kungaloosh Spiced Excursion Ale, Blue Moon Belgian White Ale, Stella Artois Pale Lager

Punch Line Punch (non-alcoholic)

Tropical Fruit Juices and Mango Purée. Also available with a savory spiced-rim for an extra zinger!

Punch Line Punch in a Jungle Skipper Canteen Souvenir Mug

Schweitzer Slush (non-alcoholic)

Frozen Apple Juice and Passion Fruit topped with Bursting Green Apple Boba Balls, first concocted by the noted explorer and humanitarian, Dr. Albert Slush

Schweitzer Slush in a Jungle Skipper Canteen Souvenir Mug

House-made Sangria

Choice of Red or White Wine blended with Spices and Juice with a trio of fruit

Jungle Navigation Co. Shandy

Blue Moon Belgian White Ale mixed with Simply Lemonade®

Kid’s Menu (Lunch/Dinner)

Kid’s appetizers:.

Serengeti Salad

with Fat-free Ranch Dressing

Safari Snack

Cucumbers and Carrots served with a Cucumber-Yogurt Dip

Kid’s Entreés:

Sizzling Savanna Grilled Seasoned Steak

served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk, Small Dasani® Water, or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice

Junior Skip’s Macaroni & Cheese

Congo Connie’s Coconut-Curry Concoction

with Pineapple Tofu and Jasmine Rice served with choice of two (2) Selections and choice of Small Lowfat Milk, Small Dasani® Water, or Small Minute Maid® Apple Juice

Chef Tandaji’s Crispy Chicken

Smiley’s Little ‘Croc’ of Chicken Soup

Tiki Tiki Shrimpy Shrimpy

Create your own selections:

Steamed Broccoli, Seasonal Vegetables, Fingerling Potatoes, Jade Rice Blend, Seasonal Fruit, Mango Sorbet, Monkey Bites, Volcano!

Skipper Canteen Review

Before doing a Skipper Canteen Review in Disney’s Magic Kingdom, we’d never eaten there before, so I was excited to try it out.  The Jungle Cruise is one of my absolute all-time favorite attractions so when I heard a few years ago that they were building an attraction based on the story of the Jungle Cruise I knew it was a must-try dining location.

The idea behind the Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen is a great one.  It’s tells the story of Dr. Albert Falls, founder of the Jungle Navigation Co. in 1911 and his then famous Jungle Cruise.  

It also delves into the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (or S.E.A), which is a secret organization behind many of the  Disney park attractions, especially those overseas in Tokyo and Hong Kong for example.  The theming here is amazing, and one of the best in any park restaurant .

Let’s dive into our Skipper Canteen Review so we can find out if it lives up to the hype…

Atmosphere:

You can find the entrance to  The Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen in the Magic Kingdom as soon as you enter Adventureland, on the right, immediately after the Sunshine Tree Terrace and before the Swiss Family Robinson Tree House.  Here’s the entrance:

In our case even though we had a reservation, we still had to wait outside for a good 30 minutes.  Strange since it wasn’t a particularly busy day in the Magic Kingdom, and also unfortunate since we planned our Skipper Canteen dinner right before the Happily Ever Fireworks so we really couldn’t afford to wait that long.  Not sure if that’s normal for the Skipper Canteen or if it was just that day.  Anyways if you have to wait you can choose to in the lovely covered veranda at the entrance:

As we said before, the  The Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen is a restaurant created by Dr. Albert Falls .  Dr. Falls founded The Jungle Navigation Co., in 1911, which was a shipping company to service fellow explorers and adventurers on the jungle rivers.  He was also prominent member of the S.E.A.(you will see their influence as we do our Skipper Canteen review).

As time went on and Dr Falls passed, his grand-daughter Alberta took over the family business and fewer and fewer true adventurers were coming to Adventureland, she stopped focusing on shipping and started offering Jungle Cruises to tourists instead.  

Naturally these hungry visitors needed a place to eat and so the Skipper Canteen was opened up to the public, including all 3 Dining Rooms in the Skipper Canteen; the Crew Mess Hall, the Falls Family Parlor and the secretive S.E.A. Room.

Let’s look at the first one:

The Crew Mess Hall:

This is the dining room when you first enter the building.  This is also where the crew working for the The Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd ate.  You know they worked up a big appetite out there on the jungle rivers so naturally this was a welcome sight when they entered:

This is by far the biggest of the 3 dining rooms at the Skipper Canteen:

The room itself is filled with high vaulting ceilings and painted in bright colors, no doubt boosting the moral of the crew members working hard on the rivers.

Look at how high the ceilings are:

You’ll also notice hundreds of artifacts found by the explorers and adventurers along the way.  If you lose something yourself while visiting the Skipper Canteen, this would be a good place to look for it:

Here’s a banner honoring the commemoration of the Jungle Cruise started by Alberta Falls:

A typical table here:

The African masks and statues on the left of the hall are nice, but it’s what’s behind there that’s far more interesting….

S.E.A. Room:

While the Crew Mess Hall is nice and all, I don’t think any Skipper Canteen review would be complete without visiting they most prestigious dining room in the restaurant: the S.E.A. Room .  This is where Dr. Albert Falls met secretly with his colleagues and fellow members of the Society of Explorers and Adventurers .  To get there we’ll have to go through the secret passage way behind the bookshelf:

When visiting the Skipper Canteen, you have to pay attention to the details.   The books on the shelf are a riot to read and are all puns on pop culture and Disney attractions and films.  Take some time to read some of them as you pass:

When you enter you immediately understand why Dr. Falls chose to meet back here:

The room is beautiful, with wood paneling from the floor all the way to the ceiling which give it a real sense of luxury and prestige:

One of my favorite things to do in the Skipper Canteen is to just wander around and look at the artifacts collected over the years by Dr. Albert Falls and his fellow explorers:

This portrait is awesome and gives you a shot a quite familiar looking jungle, wouldn’t you say….

You can also find a beautiful wood map carved into the wall:

There are literally dozens of rare butterflies  displayed on the wall too.  Here are a couple samples. They are breathtaking to look at:

Falls Family Parlor:

The 3rd and final dining room in the Skipper Canteen is the Falls Family Parlor , where the Falls family would spend most of their time eating:

This room is also really cool and unique with tons of neat details throughout.  It’s also quite bright looking with greens and blues adorning the walls:

Just like in the previous room you can find dozens of treasures discovered in the depths of the jungle:

Ok, not everything was necessarily found in the jungle:

This is a model of the actual Jungle Cruise boats:

• TIP:  Of the 3 dining rooms, I’d take the S.E.A. Room and then the Falls Family Parlor, which are both miles ahead of the Crew Mess Hall imo.  Both are a quiet and more intimate dining experience.  Ask for one of them when you check in for your reservation!

So we agree that the theming in the Skipper Canteen is fantastic, and a great representation of what a Disney restaurant should look like.  What about the food though?  Let’s find out….

So the Skipper Canteen is advertised as South American, Asian and African cuisine, which might make some pickier eaters worried.  While this was true in the beginning of the restaurant’s history, the menu has been significantly dialed-down, so you won’t find anything overly exotic, and will surely find something that appeals to everyone.

Some of the choices are Steamed Dumplings (S.E.A. She Mai), Pork, Chicken, Steak Salad, Shrimp, a Noodle Bowl, etc.  Probably the “strangest” thing on the menu is the Whole Fried Fish, which still has the head on.  The Skipper Canteen used to have their Shrimp dish also with the heads but they dialed that one down.  

Honestly it’s extremely hard to pull-off a more ambitious menu in a theme park and have it accepted by the masses.  I actually preferred the original version of it and it’s a shame that people complained about it.  It was only a matter of time it became a bit more main-stream.  In fact I fear the same fate eventually for Tiffins in the Animal Kingdom which has already had some minor tweaks but remains more upscale and more exotic than Skipper Canteen.

As for prices they are quite reasonable with Appetizers running from about $9-11 each and Entrees from about $17-32.  It’s more expensive than a quick service restaurant for sure, but being in the Magic Kingdom you pay a premium and they aren’t bad at all.

First before having our meal we had to try the Schweitzer Slush:

You Know I’m obsessed with any drink with Boba Balls in it, so it was a no brainer for me!  It has a strong green apple taste, and is refreshing, especially after it was so hot.  Loveeeee The bobba balls, which are Apple-flavored too.  It was a little too icy and could have had a stronger passion fruit taste, but overall it was good!

Our first appetizer was the  Falls Family Falafel:

The falafel uses a secret recipe of Chickpeas, Garlic, Onions, Lemon Juice, and Herbs served with White Bean Dip and Tomato-Cucumber Salad.

Unfortunately I wasn’t a huge fan.  It comes with 5 pieces, but even though it looks beautiful outside and is fried nicely, it’s actually a little dry inside and could use more flavor.  The sauce made it tastier, but it needed a little more.  The garnish of cucumber and tomato was nice touch, but ultimately the Falafel “falls” short…(I swear it wasn’t intended…??).

Next was the  Orinco Ida’s Cachapas:

Honestly I didn’t know what to expect with this one as I’ve never heard of a Cachapas before in my life.  They are actually Corn Pancakes pilled high with Mojo-braised Pork, Black Bean Salad, and Avocado Cream.  

My wife devoured these, absolutely loved them, which is obvious as she’s a big avocado person.  Definitely an appetizer you don’t see often in a theme park and executed perfectly!

The next appetizer was one I’ve been waiting to try ever since reading the menu, even if only because of the awesome name, S.E.A. Shu Mai:

Inside the box there are 5 dumplings:

The S.E.A. Shu Mai were really good!  The meat inside was juicy, it had a great texture, and they were really flavorful!  Love the combo of pork, shrimp and edamame!  Now I understand why Dr. Falls had so many secret meetings back here!

Now onto the Entrees!  First up were Trader Sam’s Head-on Shrimp:

Like I said before, these used to really be “head-on” shrimp, but many park guests are not used to seeing shrimp with their heads, so we now have the tamer version of the dish.  My mom really loved these, the shrimp were succulent and nicely seasoned.  

Also the jasmine rice was cooked great.  Only complaint is that there are only 6 shrimp which if you’re hungry and didn’t have an appetizer might not fill you.  But it’s a solid plate overall.

Next was the Hardy Har Char Siu Pork:

Honestly this was a big letdown for me.  I had heard great things about the pork and it being the must-try entree at Skipper Canteen, and just looking at it seems amazing, but honestly it was almost un-eatible.  Really it was that bad!  The pork itself was way over cooked, and resulted in dry and super stiff meat.  Also I didn’t like the sauce at all, thought it was bitter and just a bad overall choice. Don’t order!

Lastly was the A Lot at Steak Salad:

First thing is that it’s a really big portion.  Lettuce was good and the dressing super light.  That’s where the compliments stop though as it was really lacking flavor.  The steak was tender as you can see in the photo, but didn’t have an inch of flavor to it.  Not a fan and wouldn’t order again.

I couldn’t finish my Skipper Canteen review of course without trying dessert .  There aren’t very many choices, but the ones they have are of course filled with ingredients you would expect to find in the jungle, ex. fruit, coffee, etc:

I went with the Coconut Bar  with Pineapple-basil Compote and Vanilla Cream:

So back when I told you we had to wait at least 30 minutes to be seated even though there weren’t many people in the Magic Kingdom that day, as a result I had to fly through dessert if I wanted to make Happily Ever After.  

I waited about 30 minutes for the dessert and that meant of course I had to gulp it down in about 10 seconds.  That being said it was pretty good.  It was very light and the taste of coconut and pineapple was very present. It  had a good texture too, and was pretty creamy.  I wasn’t wild about mixing the basil in there, I prefer basil only in savory dishes, but I thought it was a solid choice.

I’m sorry to say but overall I was a bit disappointed with the Skipper Canteen, I really was expecting more.  I’m a huge Jungle Cruise fan so I thought the atmosphere was incredible.  I think we had worst waiter in the place because they are supposed to be in character and a bit funny like on the Jungle Cruise itself and ours was just dull, but I saw others that seemed to be really good, Oh well.  

On the other hand I loved the theming and integrating S.E.A. into the domestic parks where it’s hard to find them a lot.  I hope Disney works them in even more in the future.

The food though was a let down.  The S.E.A. Shu Mai were the best appetizer for sure and a must try.  Also Orinco Ida’s Cachapas, especially if you are a big avocado fan!  Trader Sam’s Head-on Shrimp was a good but not spectacular entree, but the rest were all disappointing to us.

It’s a shame because the Skipper Canteen has a lot of promise, especially being in the Magic Kingdom where good Table Service is almost non-existent.  I’d be willing to give Skipper Canteen another try in the future, but I can’t recommend it on the food quality alone.  If you are looking for a really cool atmosphere then it could be worth it, just beware the food is hit-or-miss.

Skipper Canteen is open for Lunch and Dinner ( 11:30 AM – Park Closing  Daily).  The Disney Dining Plan is accepted, it’s a 1 Disney Dining Table Service Credit.

Click here for the Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen Menu

I love to write Restaurant Reviews of Walt Disney World and I hope you found this one to be informative and helpful.  If you liked this review then please visit my Disney Dining Reviews Page where I have many other Restaurant Reviews . 

I’m happy sharing with you what I love doing best…eating!!  I try to bring you the most thorough and unbiased reviews about the food and restaurants at Walt Disney World, so that as you are planning your vacation, you know the “can’t be missed” places, and where you shouldn’t waste your time.  Hope you enjoyed this one and will enjoy many others in the future!!

Your Thoughts:

I want to know what you think about my Skipper Canteen Review in Disney’s Magic Kingdom…

• Did you enjoy your meal here?
• What could Disney do to improve it?

Let us know in the comments section below!

If you enjoyed this article, as always I appreciate it if you’d share it with others via social media.  I work hard at making this website into a useful resource for you and your family to plan your visit to the Disney Parks and I hope it can help you! Thanks 🙂

My name is Ziggy and I love Disney, everything Disney! I grew up on Disney and it has and continues to be a huge part of my life. I started young when my parents took me to Disney World when I was 18 months old. Little did they know that would be the first of an uncountable number of trips we would take. I have so many amazing memories going to Disney with my family and friends and it has been interwoven into my DNA.

Thursday 15th of July 2021

We were there in March of this year and we loved the food at this restaurant!!!

Monday 13th of April 2020

Thanks for you.

My party of 2 spent $98 at a Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant in Disney World, and it's the best table-service spot at Magic Kingdom

• My party of two ate at Skipper Canteen, located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom.
• After applying my 10% annual discount, we spent $98 on our lunch.
• It was a little expensive, but it was worth it for the high-quality food and lively atmosphere.

Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen is located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom.

Skipper Canteen is a table-service restaurant serving African-, Latin-, and Asian-inspired cuisine in Magic Kingdom. 

It's located in the Adventureland area of the park across from the popular Jungle Cruise attraction , which serves as the inspiration for the restaurant. 

The first thing I saw was the restaurant's comfortable outdoor waiting area.

I appreciated that the restaurant had a covered outdoor waiting area with ceiling fans and a decent amount of seating. Although I didn't get to sit in the chairs, their cushions looked comfortable.

I made my way to the stand and checked in for our reservation.

We were almost immediately escorted inside to a different waiting room.

I was surprised by how quickly we were brought inside.

Even if I have a reservation at a Disney World restaurant, I usually anticipate waiting between five and 15 minutes for my party to be called.

The indoor waiting area was vibrant, filled with bright colors and themed decor.

I particularly enjoyed looking at the paintings on the wall. My favorite was the one of a Jungle Cruise skipper driving a boat.

The stained-glass windows in the waiting area were also beautiful and added to the overall aesthetic.

Once we were seated, our server provided us with a thorough overview of the menu.

I found the restaurant's menu to be fairly extensive, so I was glad our server, Rena, was available to answer any questions I had.

I also liked that many of the dish descriptions were accompanied by images, which helped me decide what I was going to order.

Rena was one of the highlights of our meal. She was kind and attentive and even threw some jokes in — just like the skippers from Jungle Cruise .

Our drinks were accompanied by themed coasters.

The coasters may have been a tiny detail, but they stood out to me.

We ordered falafel for our first appetizer.

When I saw falafel ($11) on the appetizer menu, I knew I wanted to order it right away. 

The dish came with more than enough falafel for me and my sister as well as a hearty portion of house-made edamame hummus. Pumpkin seeds added some texture to the dish.

This was my first time having falafel at Disney World, and I thought it was very good and worth the price. 

Our server told us about a secret-menu appetizer.

Our server told us that there was a pao de queijo appetizer ($12) on the bonus "Not so Secret Menu," and I wanted to try it for myself. 

I'd never tasted anything quite like it before. The dish came with tiny balls of cheesy bread with cream cheese and chimichurri sauces on the side. 

The little balls were very tasty. I tried both of the dipping sauces and preferred the cream cheese.

For my entrée, I ordered Skipper Dan's Dan Dan Noodles.

The noodle dish ($28) typically comes with crispy pork, but I swapped it out for tofu. 

As someone who likes spicy food, these noodles hit the mark. Some of my first bites weren't that spicy, but as I made my way down to the chili sauce, I noticed the kick.

The restaurant had three dining rooms, and we were seated in the main Mess Hall.

The main room had a lot of natural light from the stained-glass windows as well as artificial light from the hanging chandeliers. 

There were many photos, wooden sculptures, and decorations around the room's perimeter.

I almost missed a bookcase passageway.

When I went to explore the rest of the restaurant, I almost missed the bookcase passageway connecting the Mess Hall to the S.E.A. Room. According to Disney Parks Blog , the story behind the "hidden" room is that it's a secret meeting location for the Society of Explorers and Adventurers.

Although the books were props (I tried pulling one off the shelf to see if they were real), it was a nice touch and played to the restaurant's explorer theme. 

The S.E.A. Room provided guests with a more intimate dining experience.

I took some time after I finished eating to check out the S.E.A. Room. 

It was more elegant than the main dining room and was filled with a lot of detail. I especially loved the patterned carpet and wooden chairs.

I think I'd request a table in this room next time.

The Jungle Room was nice but my least favorite of the three.

I thought the lighting fixtures with rainbow glass birds and the fine-china displays were very beautiful. But this room didn't seem as exciting as the others to me.

We paid about $98 to dine at Skipper Canteen, and it's now my favorite table-service restaurant in Magic Kingdom.

For two adults, the bill came out to $81 after I applied my 10% annual-passholder discount. Once I added in the tip, it was $98.17. 

I thought that was fairly pricey , but we ordered two appetizers, which isn't something I normally do at Disney World. 

I usually skip the table-service restaurants at Magic Kingdom, but I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and flavor of the food.

If you want to dine at a beautifully-decorated restaurant with flavorful food and amazing service, Skipper Canteen is an excellent choice if you're willing to spend the money.

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15 Secrets of Disney’s Jungle Cruise You Might Not Know

Photo Credit: Disney Dose.

Ever since opening in Disneyland in 1955, the Jungle Cruise has been one of the “boulder attractions” amongst guests who don't take adventure for “granite.” Due to its popularity at the Anaheim location, the ride was introduced to the Magic Kingdom in Orlando and officially opened with the park in October 1971.

Since its inception, this classic adventure has whisked millions of eager explorers away on a journey through dense, exotic landscapes, teeming with animatronic wildlife. Walt himself called the ride “the waterways of our man-made jungle.” The Jungle Cruise boasts an approximately 10-minute boat ride through “10,000 miles” of river wilderness, encompassing the Egyptian Nile, the African Congo, the Amazon in South America, and the Southeast Asian Mekong River.

In this article:

A Peek Behind the Curtain

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.

In this exploration of the Jungle Cruise's hidden wonders, we'll delve into the secrets and behind-the-scenes tricks that bring this jungle to life. This includes the meticulous craftsmanship, the clever storytelling techniques that unfold along the riverbanks, and the artistry behind creating an immersive experience that has stood the test of time.

So come aboard, fellow adventurers, as we navigate these waters and discover the enchanting mysteries that make the Jungle Cruise an enduring favorite among Disney enthusiasts of all ages.

It Was Originally the Only Ride in Adventureland

As the gates of Disneyland swung open in 1955, Adventureland made its debut, featuring a lone attraction that stole the show – the Jungle Cruise. Drawing inspiration from Disney's acclaimed True-Life Adventures documentary films and the movie The African Queen , the ride and its surrounding area became a gateway to wild and captivating narratives.

In the early stages, there was a plan to christen the area “True-Life Adventure Land,”  a nod to the documentary series that fueled its creation. However, simplicity prevailed, and the name was gracefully shortened to the now-iconic “Adventureland.”

Above see the current entrance to Adventureland at Walt Disney World!

Real Animals Were Almost Used

In the early days of envisioning the Jungle Cruise, Walt Disney himself dreamt of infusing a touch of authenticity by featuring live animals on the attraction. His passion for creating immersive experiences led him to contemplate the idea of incorporating real wildlife to bring the jungle to life. However, practical challenges and safety concerns soon became apparent. Maintaining the well-being of the animals, ensuring their safety and the safety of the visitors, and the unpredictability and inconsistency of live creatures in a controlled environment posed significant hurdles.

In the spirit of innovation, Disney opted for a groundbreaking solution–Audio Animatronics. This decision not only addressed the logistical challenges but also allowed for a level of creative control that would ensure a consistent and magical experience for every guest. By pioneering the use of animatronics in Jungle Cruise, Disney successfully blended imagination with technology, creating a timeless attraction that captures the essence of the wild in a safe and enchanting manner.

The Skippers Don't Drive the Boat

While the charismatic skippers of the Jungle Cruise may appear to be masterfully navigating the winding rivers with expert precision, there's a delightful secret beneath the surface–the boats are actually on a track! Yes, the magic of Disney extends even to the waterways of this iconic attraction.

Behind the scenes, the boats are guided along an unseen track beneath the surface, ensuring a seamless and controlled journey through the exotic landscapes. What makes the experience truly enchanting is the skillful touch of the skippers. The skippers excel in making you believe they are steering the ship with ease with perfectly timed spins of the captain's wheel. While they can control the speed of the boat and move it forwards and backward, the track guides the boat along the Jungle Cruise's journey. This way, the skippers can focus on bringing the adventure to life with their wit and “niles and niles” of punny jokes.

There's Something in the Water

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog.

Have you ever wondered why the water on the Jungle Cruise river has such a murky appearance? Personally, I have. Come to find out, it's not a natural muckiness! In fact, it's Imagineers employing a clever technique!

The Imagineers introduced a water-soluble dye, tinted in green-brown hues, to give the water an authentic jungle aesthetic. Located behind the “Eighth Wonder of the World” a large pump disperses the dye into the water.

Beyond its visual impact, this dye serves a crucial purpose—it conceals the boat tracks and wiring essential for the animatronics. It also helps give the illusion that the water is much deeper, like it would be in the wild. In reality, the water is only about 4 feet deep in most areas. This thoughtful technique ensures that guests remain fully immersed in the jungle ambiance.

Sensors Help the Skippers

“Does anyone know what kind of snake that is? Begins with P… not Python – good guess though! Plastic!” – Anonymous Skipper

Personally, I was always curious how the skippers had such impeccable timing with their jokes hitting at the exact right moment with an animatronic. If you’ve ever wondered about this too, wonder no more–it's no mere coincidence!

According to DisneyFanatic.com and TPM Vids , there are sensors in The Jungle Cruise that trigger a specific effect to go off when the boat passes. This clever technological integration allows skippers to synchronize their narration and punch lines perfectly. Harnessing the ability to control the boat's speed, skippers ensure that their witty commentary aligns precisely with the sensor signals preceding each animatronic encounter.

An Animator Added the Fun

“It’s okay to take pictures folks, they all have their trunks on.” – Anonymous Skipper

When The Jungle Cruise initially debuted in 1955, it embraced a more educational tone reminiscent of the documentaries that inspired its creation. However, by the early 1960s, Walt Disney envisioned injecting additional drama and humor into the ride to enhance the overall experience. To bring this vision to life, he enlisted the talents of animator Marc Davis, one of Disney's esteemed “Nine Old Men.”

Starting his journey with Disney in 1935 as an animator for “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” Davis became a crucial collaborator on various iconic rides, including Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, it's a small world, and Pirates of the Caribbean. Walt Disney's request for humorous sketches from Davis marked the beginning of transforming the once-serious wilderness into a “wise-cracking” adventure. Among Davis' notable contributions is the creation of the Elephant Pool scene, leaving a lasting mark on the Jungle Cruise's whimsical evolution.

Too Good for Backstage

In addition to his work on the Jungle Cruise, Marc Davis was enlisted to create entertaining scenes adorning the outskirts of various lands visible from the train, serving as lively advertisements for the attractions within. According to a Marc Davis conversation with Disney Archaeologist Scott Wolf detailed in a Keeping the Magic Alive YouTube video and The Kingdom Insider article , the “Trapped Safari” scene was initially designed as a promotional visual. However, Walt Disney, captivated by Davis' ingenuity, declared that it had to be in the ride.

Fast forward to today, and the once-promotional sketch has evolved into a cherished fan-favorite scene on the attraction. Notably, it has become the “butt-of-the-joke” for many of the skippers' witty punch lines.

Easter Eggs Laid by The Rock

In July 2021, Walt Disney Pictures unveiled the highly anticipated summer blockbuster “Jungle Cruise,” featuring the dynamic duo of Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson and Emily Blunt. While the Jungle Cruise attraction predates the movie, the film drew inspiration from the iconic Disneyland ride. Disneyland's queue, in a stroke of cinematic magic, received some delightful Easter Eggs courtesy of the movie.

Notably, across from Dr. Kon Chunosuke’s insect collection, visitors will discover the map from the film—a map that Dr. Lily (Emily Blunt) reveals to Skipper Frank (Dwayne Johnson), leading them on a quest to find an ancient, powerful healing tree poised to revolutionize medicine.

The Disneyland queue holds additional hidden gems from the movie. Dr. Lily and Skipper Frank's attire is suspended behind Alberta Falls’ office door in the Jungle Cruise boathouse. Frank's coat also adorns Alberta's office, discreetly placed behind a wicker hutch. Further intrigue awaits in the Safari Supply Storage Room, where a Conquistador's helmet serves as another nod to the film's adventurous narrative.

Recent Changes to the Jungle Cruise Attraction

Returning visitors to Disneyland and Magic Kingdom will notice a change in the Jungle Cruise attraction, as the character known as the “Head Salesman” Trader Sam is no longer present in person. Following a 2021 refurbishment at both parks, which aimed to address concerns about cultural sensitivity, several scenes underwent renovations to ensure they were more respectful to Indigenous people.

In response to criticisms regarding the representation of Indigenous people on the ride, Disney Parks took action in January 2021. The refurbishments were designed to “reflect and value the diversity of the world around us.”

As part of these changes, scenes featuring a war party with spears, native dancers, and Trader Sam selling shrunken heads have been completely removed from the attraction. However, Trader Sam is still part of the ride in a different capacity, as guests can now encounter him within the new “Gift Shop,” where he sells explorers' lost items.

Special Holiday Overlays

During the merriest season of the year, both Disneyland and Disney World once joined in the festive transformation of The Jungle Cruise, giving rise to the enchanting “Jingle Cruise” holiday overlay. While Disneyland stopped doing this festive overlay in 2017, Disney World still partakes in the merriment every year. 

From early November through approximately the first week in January, the classic attraction dons holiday decor, ushering guests into a yuletide wonderland.  This joyous holiday makeover, accessible to all park visitors and not exclusive to Christmas event party-goers, brings a delightful twist to the Jungle Cruise experience. The animatronics and scenes get a festive facelift with whimsical decorations, and even the jokes take on a special holiday flair. It's a seasonal spectacle that infuses an extra dose of magic into the already boisterous attraction, making the Jingle Cruise a must-see holiday treat for all park-goers.

Hungry for More Fun Facts?

Our cruise can't come to an end just yet! Here are some additional fun facts about the Jungle Cruise ride:

• Disneyland's Jungle Cruise queue is two stories tall, while Disney World's queue is only one story.
• In Walt Disney World, the legend is the plane that crashed on the Jungle Cruise is actually the back half of the plane from the Casablanca scene on the former Great Movie Ride attraction in Hollywood Studios.
• The Disney World attraction includes a temple tunnel scene and Disneyland's does not.
• Schweitzer Falls was actually named after Dr. Albert Schweitzer, a famous doctor, humanitarian, and Nobel Prize winner.
• Both Disney World and Disneyland locations have Schweitzer Falls, a.k.a. the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” and get to see the “backside of water.”

The Jungle Cruise stands as a true Disney masterpiece, demonstrating that even in the heart of the jungle, magic is very much alive! From the clever storytelling and meticulously crafted animatronics to hidden surprises and festive overlays like the Jingle Cruise, each detail adds to the awe of this iconic attraction.

Whether it's your initial voyage or a return to familiar waters, every twist and turn on this jungle adventure brings forth not just high-seas hilarity and puns, but also reflects Disney's dedication to providing enchanting experiences for visitors of all ages. The next time you embark on the Jungle Cruise, take a moment to appreciate the intricate details that make this expedition a timeless journey into the heart of Disney magic, where the wonder is grounded in the artistry and craftsmanship that brings the adventure to life.

10 Failed Disney Rides That Were so Unsuccessful They Were Removed Swiftly

While several beloved Disney rides have stood the test of time, others have faced issues or declined in popularity to the extent that they were removed. See our list of 10 failed Disney rides and learn why they were removed from the parks.

Worst Dates at Disney: Avoid Visiting Disney Parks At All Costs During These Times of the Year

Certain times of the year draw in huge crowds that can easily make your park experience frustrating. Make sure you're in-the-know about which Disney dates to avoid at all costs if you hate crowds !

Boomers Make These Ten Embarrassing Mistakes at Disney Parks

There are some major Boomer mistakes to avoid in order to make the most of your experience. From ignoring mobile apps to resisting breaking out of the same food routine, be sure to read our list of the biggest mistakes that boomers make at Disney .

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35 Best Restaurants at Disney World You MUST ADD To Your Dining List

Are you trying to figure out what the best restaurants at Disney World are for your trip?

Picking out where to dine while at Walt Disney World can be almost as challenging as scheduling your Lightning Lane reservations.

With so many options across the Disney Resort, where does one even start?

Well, luckily for you I’ve made the definitive list of where to dine at Walt Disney World.

This list will include options at each park, select resorts, Disney Springs, and broken everything down by service type and meal!

After reading over my recommendation of the best restaurants at Disney World, you should be able to make those dining reservations with confidence!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

35 Best Disney World Restaurants Overview

• Cinderella’s Royal Table (Magic Kingdom)
• Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Epcot)
• Space 220 (Epcot)
• Ronto Roasters (Hollywood Studios)
• Nomad Lounge (Animal Kingdom)
• Shula’s (Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort)
• Grand Floridian Café (Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
• Sanaa (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
• Wine Bar George (Disney Springs)
• Todd English Bluezoo (Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort)
• Via Napoli (Epcot)
• Rose and Crown Pub (Epcot)
• The Hollywood Brown Derby (Hollywood Studios)
• Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo (Hollywood Studios)
• Yak and Yeti (Animal Kingdom)
• Harambe Village Market (Animal Kingdom)
• Topolino’s Terrace (Disney’s Riviera Resort)
• Yachtsman Steakhouse (Disney’s Yacht Club Resort)
• Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar (Disney Springs)
• Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ (Disney Springs)
• Be Our Guest (Magic Kingdom)
• Le Cellier Steakhouse (Epcot)
• Takumi-Tei (Epcot)
• La Cantina de San Angel (Epcot)
• 50’s Prime Time Café (Hollywood Studios)
• ABC Commissary (Hollywood Studios)
• Tiffins (Animal Kingdom)
• Satu’li Canteen (Animal Kingdom)
• Jiko (Animal Kingdom Lodge)
• Victoria and Albert’s (Grand Floridian Resort & Spa)
• Boatwright’s Dining Hall (Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort)
• Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue (Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campgrounds and Cabins)
• California Grill (Contemporary Resort)
• The BOATHOUSE (Disney Springs)
• Morimoto Asia (Disney Springs)

Are you planning a Disney vacation soon? Read the  Disney World Vacation Planning Guide  for your next dream trip!

Breakfast and Brunch at Disney World

We all know that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. These are my picks for the best spots across Walt Disney World for breakfast and brunch!

Best Breakfast at the Magic Kingdom

To us here at ThemeParkHipster, Magic Kingdom is the place where dining suffers the most compared to the options at the other three theme parks.

If you plan on dining at Magic Kingdom there are some real gems though.

Table Service: Cinderella’s Royal Table

Located high inside Cinderella Castle is Cinderella’s Royal Table.

This character dining meal is perfect for breakfast, not only because you get to see all of your favorite princesses while you dine on a tasty meal, but because if you plan your reservation time right then you can get into the park before it even opens for guests!

Note that Cinderella’s Royal Table reservations are extremely limited, so if this is a priority place then you need to reserve your spot as soon as possible.

Quick Service: Just Don’t.

Quick service breakfast at Magic Kingdom is super limited, and honestly not that great. If all else fails the Starbucks on Main Street U.S.A. is always available but the lines can be very long in the morning.

If you must eat a quick service breakfast at Magic Kingdom, I would suggest that or eating at Sleepy Hollow, but otherwise eating at your resort might be the better option.

Best Breakfast at Epcot

Epcot is known for their plentiful food options, but when it comes to breakfast, options can be limited. These are our picks.

Table Service: Akershus Royal Banquet Hall

This is another character dining experience, but unlike Cinderella’s Royal Table this one is all-you-care-to-eat.

The Disney princesses will be around to greet you while you enjoy a meal of traditional Norwegian tastes, and more traditional American breakfast options.

Quick Service: Sunshine Seasons

Sunshine Seasons inside The Land Pavilion often goes unnoticed for breakfast, even though it’s a great spot to grab a light bite.

I love their Chocolate Croissant and Breakfast Sandwich, which comes with smoked bacon, eggs, and cheddar on a croissant.

This is also a nice spot to sit and relax while people watching and waiting for your Soarin’ Over The World or Living with the Land Lightning Lane time to come.

Best Breakfast at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios breakfast is limited but you can still find some tasty things if you know where to look.

Table Service: Just Don’t

Because of the popularity of Disney’s Hollywood Studios right now with Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, I would not recommend eating a table service breakfast at this park.

Your time would be better spent hopping in line for an attraction like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run or Slinky Dog Dash before the park gets really busy.

Quick Service: Ronto Roasters

Inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is where you’ll find a small quick service location called Ronto Roasters.

You’ve likely heard of their popular Ronto Wrap for lunch or dinner, but the real star here is their breakfast Ronto Wrap, which has eggs, cheese, and sausage with a tangy sauce wrapped in warm bread!

Grab one of these after going in the Single Rider Line for Smugglers Run, or for even quicker service order via Disney’s mobile order function on the My Disney Experience app.

Best Breakfast at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Eating breakfast while touring the animal exploration trails, or staring at the floating mountains of Pandora- The World of Avatar seems like a fantastic way to start the day!

Table Service: Tusker House

Disney’s most unique character breakfast is at Tusker House, which we highly recommend experiencing at least once!

The breakfast is a delightful blend of African and American cuisine , and it’s all hosted by Donald Duck and his pals.

Quick Service: Pongu Pongu

The tiny quick service location inside Pandora- The World of Avatar is home to the sweetest breakfast treat, Pongu Lumpia!

These little egg rolls are filled with cream cheese and pineapple then rolled in cinnamon sugar for a sugar rush of a breakfast.

Ready to make your trip out to Walt Disney World Resort, then get your no obligation, FREE Quote by filling out the form with The Park Prodigy by Clicking HERE!

Best Breakfast at the Deluxe Resorts

There are quite a few Disney Deluxe Resorts at Walt Disney World, but in an effort to save time, I’m not going to go through each individual resort.

I will go through the ones we think have the best breakfast and brunch spots right now.

Table Service: Grand Floridian Cafe

Located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, the Grand Floridian Cafe is best known for their variety of eggs Benedict, including a scrumptious lobster Benedict.

If eggs Benedict aren’t your thing then the Mickey waffles with additional toppings should be high on your list to try. I love the lemon and blueberry additions.

Quick Service: Sanaa

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge- Kidani Village is Sanaa. At breakfast the location is quick casual, and the menu is fantastic, including chai French toast, and homemade sausages.

Snag a table by the window if you can to see some of the animals roaming the savanna. Making it one of the best restaurants at Disney World.

Best Breakfast at Disney Springs

Disney Springs doesn’t have a spot that’s serving up a quick service breakfast right now, but there is one spot that’s a must for a weekend brunch!

Table Service: Wine Bar George

If you’ve never been to Wine Bar George for brunch you’ve missed out on a quintessential Disney experience.

The brunch menu is filled with small shareable plates and entrees including avocado toast and biscuits and gravy.

To drink, you must order a Dole Whip Frozcato, which takes Dole Whip and blends it with wine for a sweet start to the day.

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Lunch at Disney World

Stopping for lunch at Walt Disney World is a great time to take a break to recharge and make a plan for the second half of your day.

Here at ThemeParkHipster, we prefer lunch over dinner , mostly because the menus are fairly similar, but the prices at lunch are cheaper.

Best Lunch at Magic Kingdom

Magic Kingdom’s lunch options are vast and plentiful, no matter if you want a highly themed dining or just something to grab and eat at a table outside to enjoy the park’s atmosphere.

Table Service: Skipper Canteen

Skipper Canteen is located in the Adventureland section of the park and is themed after The Jungle Cruise attraction. The menu has some unique offerings like a whole fish and Asian-style dumplings.

If you’re into the jokes and antics from The Jungle Cruise this is the spot to be.

Quick Service: Casey’s Corner

There’s honestly nothing better for lunch at Magic Kingdom than corn dog nuggets from Casey’s Corner on Main Street U.S.A. These little golden nuggets are fried to perfection and served with fries.

Be sure to mobile order these since the line for Casey’s Corner can get very long around lunch time!

Best Lunch at Epcot

Epcot might be my favorite park for lunch.

There are a ton of options and everyone traveling with you can go their separate ways to get what they want without feeling bad, especially for quick service meals!

Table Service: Via Napoli

Pizza always seems to hit the spot, but the pizza from Via Napoli inside Epcot’s Italy pavilion just seems to up the ante on what pizza can be.

All of the ingredients for Via Napoli’s pizza are flown in from Italy , and the ovens used to bake the pizza were also flown in from Italy, making everything super authentic.

Quick Service: Yorkshire County Fish Shop

Located in the United Kingdom Pavilion, the Yorkshire County Fish Shop is an easy lunch spot that always serves up consistent food.

The only thing you need to know about ordering here are the fish and chips, which comes with two large pieces of fish and steak fries!

Best Lunch at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Lunch at Hollywood Studios is full of options to please any palate. I love spots where I can dine outside and people watch.

Table Service: The Lounge at The Hollywood Brown Derby

Outside at The Hollywood Brown Derby is a small patio that is first come, first served, and has a special menu of small plates and larger appetizers.

We love the Brown Derby Cobb salad , and the Grapefruit Cake. Enjoy these while people watching and drinking from the martini flight!

Quick Service: Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo

Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo is located inside Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with galactic themed eats and treats.

Once you order head out to the patio adjacent to the restaurant to spot your favorite Star Wars characters like Chewbacca or Rey recruiting new Resistance fighters.

I love the Chicken Tip Yip , and the Peka Tuna Pok e from this location.

Best Lunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Lunch at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is sure to be a wild time at these locations.

Table Service: Yak and Yeti

Yak and Yeti is located in the Asia section of the park and features two stories of dining space with dishes inspired by Indian and Asian cuisine.

For a meal with a view ask to be seated upstairs next to the windows .

I love the Ahi Tuna Nachos for a scrumptious lunch that keeps me full for a long time. Making it one of the best restaurants at Disney World.

Quick Service: Harambe Village Market

Near the entrance to the train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch is Harambe Village Market.

This quick service location has several stations where you can order lunch based on what you want from chicken, to sausage, to ribs.

I love sitting out here because of the attention to detail and watching the train pass by as I munch on sweet and savory ribs.

Best Lunch at the Deluxe Resorts

Taking a break from the parks to go to a resort for lunch is always a good idea.

That break might just be the thing you need to get through the rest of the day in the parks, especially if it’s hot or crowded.

Table Service: Beaches and Cream

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and just a quick Skyliner trip away from Epcot or Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

At Beaches and Cream Soda Shop I love the Grilled Cheese Sandwich with the Tomato Soup and Reuben sandwich for a lunch that’s definitely big enough to share.

You’ll also watch to try the Loaded Tots and an ice cream treat while you’re there.

Quick Service: Captain Cooks

Over at Disney’s Polynesian Village you’ll find Captain Cooks, where a taste of the islands is all over the menu. Skip dining inside in favor of a picnic on the lawn or at one of the patio tables.

I always get the pulled pork nachos, which is covered in BBQ pork, and a variety of toppings.

Best Lunch at Disney Springs

Lunch at Disney Springs is well worth the ride to the shopping, dining, and entertainment complex.

Get here early if you don’t want to deal with heavy crowds or wait around to a table to open up.

Table Service: Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’

Celebrity chef driven restaurants can be found all over Disney Springs, but one I cannot get enough of is Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’.

The inviting restaurant has a wide variety of Southern cuisine to choose from including biscuits, grilled meats, and tasty desserts.

I love getting the Church Lady Deviled Eggs, Fried Chicken & Doughnuts, Bee Haven Bay Fried Green Tomatoes along with a glass of Apple Pie A La Mode Moonshine Cocktail to enjoy while I’m here.

Quick Service: Earl of Sandwich

There’s a reason Earl of Sandwich has an avid following, simply stated the food is good and relatively inexpensive.

For a real treat order the Thanksgiving sandwich, which is piled high with carved turkey and a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce.

Recommended: Top 5 Ways to Find Cheap Disney World Tickets for Your Vacation!

Dinner at Disney World

Dinner at Walt Disney World can mean a lot of things, from table service meals, character meals, chef’s table options, and quick casual dinners.

I’ve picked out our favorite dinner spots and hope you love them just as much as us!

Best Dinner at Magic Kingdom

Dinner is probably the best meal to eat at Magic Kingdom. Not only are the options plentiful, but the food is pretty good for my least favorite park to eat at.

Table Service: Be Our Guest

During the evening Be Our Guest located in Fantasyland is table service only.

Depending on where you sit the meal will be different since there are three distinct rooms with different themes.

If you leave here without trying the Grey Stuff you’ve really missed out on living out a Disney childhood fantasy.

Quick Service: Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe

Sometimes you really just want an easy dinner, and that’s where Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe jumps in.

The quick service location offers simple meals like chicken nuggets or chicken sandwiches, burgers, and a fully loaded toppings bar.

I love grabbing chicken nuggets and fries , then heading outside to eat on the patio that faces Cinderella Castle.

Best Dinner at Epcot

Dinner at Epcot can be as extravagant or as simple as you want. Our favorite options include an exclusive meal and one with a view of the lagoon.

Table Service: Takumi-Tei Chef’s Table

There’s really nothing like a chef’s table dining experience and the one at Takumi-Tei is not one to be missed.

The meal is only served one time during the entire day and offers a private dining room for up to eight guests and a personalized menu tailored to your taste.

Quick Service: La Cantina de San Angel

What’s better than tacos near the lagoon at Epcot? I don’t think much tops that for a quick service meal.

At La Cantina de San Angel I love getting tacos or cheese empanadas and trying to find a table by the lagoon for a relaxing dinner.

I skip the margaritas here though and head inside to La Cava del Tequila to get better drinks there.

Best Dinner at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios dinner locations are full of zany antics and sweet surprises that are worth staying in the park late for.

Table Service: 50’s Prime Time Café

Food just like mom used to make it is what you’ll find at 50’s Prime Time Café.

The restaurant is filled with Cast Members who play as one big family, yell across the restaurant at each other, and make sure you have a clean plate before ordering dessert.

I love the pot roast or fried chicken for a filling dinner. And don’t forget to grab the Grandma’s Picnic Punch drink!

Quick Service: ABC Commissary

For another quick dinner option ABC Commissary is the spot to be.

For something unique try the Shrimp Tacos, which comes filled with sautéed shrimp on flour tortillas topped with cabbage slaw, chipotle mayonnaise, and mango salsa served with mexican rice and pork black beans topped with queso fresco!

Be sure to mobile order so you don’t have to wait in line for a while before being able to order and take a seat.

Best Dinner at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park

Dinner at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is our favorite, especially with the amount of options and cultural influence.

Table Service: Tiffins

Tiffins is a signature restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, but the experience is well worth the cost!

Each room at Tiffins is beautifully themed to reflect one section of the park. The menu is inspired by Walt Disney Imagineering’s tours of Africa and Asia as they researched to build Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Go here hungry and order whatever the chef recommends, because it’s always good! This is definitely one of the BEST restaurants at Disney World.

Quick Service: Satu’li Canteen

Satu’li Canteen is one place at Walt Disney World where you can truly make your meal custom to what you want.

Each entree bowl starts with your choice of base, meat, and sauce, then it’s all layered together for a yummy meal.

I love the beef with the creamy garlic dressing and hearty salad for a light but filling dinner.

Best Dinner at the Deluxe Resorts

Leaving the parks for dinner might seem like a bad idea especially if you’re planning on seeing the nightly fireworks from a good spot.

But if that doesn’t matter to you, the resorts are a fantastic spot to snag a dining reservation and enjoy a peaceful dinner away from the hustle and bustle of the parks.

Table Service: Jiko

Over at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge- Jambo House you’ll find Jiko. This restaurant serves up elegant meals with a distinct African twist.

I love the charcuterie board to start, and fish of the day with their four cheese macaroni and cheese as an entree.

Don’t forget to order a glass of wine because Jiko has the largest selection of wine from South Africa outside of South Africa.

Quick Service: Just Don’t

If you must have a quick service dinner, don’t do it at a resort. While they are still good, wasting park time to do a quick service meal doesn’t seem like a good use of time.

The only reason I would leave the parks for dinner is if I was doing a table service meal.

Recommended: 5 Best Disney World Deluxe Resorts to Stay at Right Now

Best Dinner at Disney Springs

I really love Disney Springs for dining options, and dinner is a great time to head over to see what your options are.

Table Service: City Works Eatery and Pour House

The newest dining location to open at Disney Springs is City Works Eater and Pour House. This spot is best known for their huge selection of beers on tap and tasty pub-style food.

I love the Fish Tacos and Smoked BBQ Ribs with a flight of beer for a nice dinner.

Quick Service: Polite Pig

Even though Orlando might not be known for their BBQ scene, Polite Pig is making a name for themselves at Disney Springs.

The BBQ spot is located just at the entrance to the Lime Garage making it super convenient to get to without having to navigate all of Disney Springs to find it.

I love their brisket and pulled pork , both of which are served with sides. Plus, I can never get enough of their crispy Brussel sprouts.

ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

The Ultimate Disney World Dining Day Itinerary

If you’re still overwhelmed by the amount of options, I’m going to let you in on what my ultimate dining day would look like.

• I would start out at Wine Bar George at Disney Springs for brunch and order the avocado toast.
• Lunch would be served from Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo in Hollywood Studios.
• Dinner would be Takumi Tei in Epcot.

All three of these have some of the best menus at Walt Disney World right now, and offer a unique take on the dining experience that cannot be replicated other places.

What’s your best restaurants in Disney World left off the list? If so, let us know in the comments section below.

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

Megan is a theme park expert and frequent traveler to magical places. She covers all things Disney and Universal and runs marathons for fun.

She thinks you can tell a lot about someone by the name of their signature lipstick, and hers is NARS Dragon Girl.

(Original Article Date: June 30, 2020/Updated by Editor on August 22, 2024)

The post 35 Best Restaurants at Disney World You MUST ADD To Your Dining List appeared first on ThemeParkHipster .

No Access Allowed: Pirates of the Caribbean Area Boarded Up, Updates Given

in Walt Disney World

The Pirates of the Caribbean area at Walt Disney World Resort is now boarded up.

Adventureland at Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom Park is a lush, tropical area that transports guests to exotic locales inspired by the jungles of Africa, the Caribbean, and the South Seas. The land’s immersive atmosphere is enhanced by diverse architecture, from Polynesian to Caribbean styles, surrounded by dense greenery and the sounds of nature.

Adventureland is home to several beloved attractions, including the iconic Pirates of the Caribbean ride, where guests embark on a boat journey through scenes of pirate raids and treasures, complete with animatronic pirates and the famous “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me)” tune. The ride’s enduring popularity and rich theming have cemented its place in Disney’s history and popular culture.

Over the years, the ride has been updated to include elements from the popular Pirates of the Caribbean  film series, blending the original storyline with characters like Captain Jack Sparrow, played by Johnny Depp in the $4 billion movie franchise.

The Pirates of the Caribbean attraction at Walt Disney World remains a beloved and iconic experience, continuing to draw large crowds and inspire global merchandise and media, despite the controversy surrounding Johnny Depp, who was ousted from his role as Jack Sparrow after legal battles with his ex-wife , Amber Heard, over domestic abuse allegations.

Besides Pirates of the Caribbean, Adventureland features other attractions that contribute to its adventurous spirit, such as the Jungle Cruise , the Enchanted Tiki Room, and the Magic Carpets of Aladdin.

The area also offers themed dining experiences like the Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen and shopping spots filled with pirate-themed merchandise. Adventureland’s rich theming, iconic attractions, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit area for guests of all ages.

Disney is further expanding the Pirates of the Caribbean story by converting the Tortuga Tavern in Adventureland into a themed lounge , the first of its kind at Magic Kingdom. Announced by Walt Disney Imagineering Chief Chris Beatty, this new lounge is designed to extend the narrative of the attraction, demonstrating Disney’s commitment to evolving its beloved attractions and creating immersive experiences for fans.

“A new Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge is coming to Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park,” wrote D23 on X (formerly Twitter). “This first-of-its-kind experience will extend the story of Pirates of the Caribbean. Imagineers are in the design process now—more details to come in the future!”

The changes to Adventureland’s Pirates of the Caribbean area have completely boarded up the gift shop—Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar—at the attraction’s exit. While items can no longer be purchased here for the foreseeable future, merchandise has migrated across the walkway to the Tortuga Tavern location, now known as Tortuga Treasures .

Related: Pirates of the Caribbean Evacuation Goes Viral, Amasses 1.2 Million Views: “Help I’m Drowning, Save Me!”

In a construction update, WDW Magic shared a series of photos of the construction project, including the walls surrounding the Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar. The official Walt Disney World Resort website reminds guests that this gift shop is closed indefinitely.

“Plaza del Sol Caribe Bazaar will be closed for refurbishment beginning July 23, 2024,” the store’s webpage reads. “Plot a course to visit the Plaza del Sol Caribe pop-up store located at Tortuga Tavern for pirate treasures and more. Please check back later for updates.”

The restrooms, alongside the former gift shop, are still available for guests.

“In June, Disney filed a construction permit for the Pirates of the Caribbean area, assigned to long-time Disney partner Whiting-Turner Contractor Company, which has previously worked with Disney on numerous major projects across Walt Disney World,” WDW Magic wrote.

The approach to extend the storytelling of an attraction aligns with Disney’s broader strategy of integrating and expanding attraction stories into new spaces, enhancing the overall guest experience. A similar effort is seen with Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in Frontierland , which serves as a direct sequel to The Princess and the Frog (2009) and ties into the forthcoming Tiana Disney+ series.

Related: Two Women Confined on Pirates of the Caribbean After Eerie Attraction Tragedy

Additionally, Disney is making significant updates across its parks, with the majority of change happening in the Sunshine State.

The outpouring of news from D23 Expo 2024 was a lot to handle for even the most dedicated theme park fan.

From the overhaul of DinoLand U.S.A. at Disney’s Animal Kingdom –which will eventually feature elements from the Encanto and Indiana Jones franchises and be known as the Pueblo Esperanza– to the eradication of Frontierland’s Tom Sawyer Island and Rivers of America to make way for Cars land , the Horizons showcase delivered on tangible news– even if it wasn’t all welcomed .

Are you missing the Pirates of the Caribbean gift shop in Adventureland? Let Inside the Magic know in the comments down below!

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Disney releases details on garden-themed area of Singapore-based cruise ship

Disney Cruise Line is unveiling all-new details about one of the seven themed areas aboard the Disney Adventure , which will set sail from Singapore in 2025. Disney Imagination Garden, the central hub of the ship, will be an immersive, enchanted valley inspired by 100 years of Disney adventures. The colorful landscapes of Disney Imagination Garden will transport guests into the pages of Disney stories alongside favorite characters. The vibrant, open-air garden will be set against a three-deck-tall, stunning storybook castle art piece, a first-of-its-kind onboard a Disney Cruise Line ship. The space will also include a theatrical stage that will bring beloved Disney stories to life, two quick-service eateries, an alluring bar and a selection of garden-view staterooms. 

“Disney Imagination Garden is the heart and soul of the Disney Adventure, where our guests will interact with our Disney, Pixar and Marvel stories in a whole new way,” said Laura Cabo, portfolio executive creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “The size and scale of this space provided us with so many opportunities to dream big and try new things with our experiential design, creating first-of-a-kind experiences for our guests, from all-new entertainment to delicious dining and lots of magical surprises sprinkled throughout. Rooted in the rich legacy of Disney storytelling, we’re creating an area that will open doors to new adventures and encourage guests to create magic of their own.”

Disney Imagination Garden is one of seven uniquely themed areas on the Disney Adventure. The other areas include Disney Discovery Reef, San Fransokyo Street, Wayfinder Bay, Town Square, Marvel Landing and Toy Story Place. More details about these themed areas will be released at a later date.

The adventure begins: Exploring Disney Imagination Garden

Recalling the pages of a classic pop-up storybook, Disney Imagination Garden will be filled with landscapes styled like paper cut-outs, including decorative foliage of blooming flowers, shaped topiaries, tall trees and cascading vines, all among scenic props like towering trellises and twinkling lanterns. Planted throughout the idyllic scenery will be a mix of popular characters and designs from Disney, Pixar, and Marvel stories.

Disney Imagination Garden will be anchored by the Garden Stage on one end and the larger-than-life castle artwork on the other, with a promenade in between providing families with opportunities to explore, connect and dine. Directly in front of the stage will be an open “lawn” area leading to a large staircase that will double as amphitheater-style seating, perfect for enjoying live entertainment on the Garden Stage. On either side of the staircase, intricately adorned arches and leafy tree branches with hanging lanterns will further evoke the area’s storybook garden theme.

At the top of the grand staircase, guests will discover a charming garden courtyard and bar surrounded by trees designed to look like storybook cut-outs and decorated with images of familiar animal pals. At the center of the courtyard, a Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse topiary will stand with his wand held high as if conjuring this magical garden where beloved characters and stories bloom to life.

Families staying in designated Garden View staterooms, an all-new room category for Disney Cruise Line, will have access to a verandah providing unmatched views of Disney Imagination Garden.

Set the stage: Activating all-day entertainment

A captivating program of high-energy shows, character appearances and magical surprises will await families on the Garden Stage. Complete with three-deck-high LED screens, special effects and innovative theatrical tools, this cutting-edge performance venue will delight guests of all ages throughout each day of their voyage aboard the Disney Adventure.

One of the signature entertainment experiences performed on the Garden Stage will be Avengers Assemble! This action-packed stage show will feature stunts and special effects as the one-and-only Deadpool makes his Disney Cruise Line debut to lend his signature irreverence and comedy to the spectacle. The epic battle of Marvel Super Heroes and Villains at sea will showcase the unbelievable powers of Spider-Man, Iron Man, Captain America, Black Widow, Thor, Black Panther, The Scarlet Witch, Ms. Marvel, Loki, Red Skull, Taskmaster and more.

Details about additional shows and other entertainment offerings on the Garden Stage will be released at a later date.

At the family table: Showcasing regional cuisines

Disney Imagination Garden will be home to two quick-service eateries that guests will be able to enjoy as part of their cruise fare. Inspired by the animated worlds of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “The Jungle Book” and “Moana,” these restaurants will continue Disney Imagination Garden’s immersive storytelling by inviting families to dine in two distinctly themed environments. With options for indoor and outdoor seating at both locations, guests who opt to dine on either patio will also have a view of the Garden Stage to enjoy entertainment.

• Mowgli’s Eatery – Serving Indian cuisine, including vegetarian and regional dishes with a special Disney twist, this casual eatery will be inspired by Mowgli’s epic journey in “The Jungle Book.” The restaurant will draw on both early concept art from the film and authentic regional design influences. 
• Gramma Tala’s Kitchen – This inviting quick service restaurant will reflect the vibrant scenery and island flair of “Moana.” Décor inspired by the Pacific Islands, as well as art and backgrounds based on the film, will set the stage for an imaginative menu showcasing the diverse flavors found throughout the Pacific and Asia.

Magic at sea: Sailing on the Disney Adventure

Beginning in 2025, the Disney Adventure will sail out of Singapore, offering families throughout the region three- and four-night voyages with only days at sea. The ship will be both a journey and a destination, with opportunities for families to enjoy their vacation without ever leaving the ship.

After a busy day of magical adventures, families will retreat to staterooms complete with special Disney touches and family-friendly conveniences. Families can choose from a range of room types, including those boasting beautiful ocean vistas or scenic views of the ship’s spectacular promenades, as well as dedicated concierge accommodations. Providing ultimate luxury, concierge bookings will include access to exclusive areas and amenities such as a private indoor lounge, an expansive sundeck with shaded pool and whirlpools, high-end shopping venues, and first-class spa and fitness facilities.

On the horizon: A new adventure awaits

The Disney Adventure will sail from the Marina Bay Cruise Centre for at least five years beginning in 2025 as part of a collaboration between Disney Cruise Line and Singapore Tourism Board.

Disney Cruise Line estimates the passenger capacity of the 208,000-gross-ton Disney Adventure to be approximately 6,700 with around 2,500 crew members.

More details about the Disney Adventure’s onboard experiences and maiden voyage will be announced at later date.

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Disney Dining Details: Skipper Canteen Secret Passageway Bookshelves

By AJ 5 Comments

Do you harbor a secret dream to become a member of the S.E.A. (Society of Explorers and Adventurers) ?

If so, then maybe you’d like to do a little exploring with me today as we step back inside the Jungle Navigation Co., Ltd. Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland, the still-new restaurant based on the Jungle Cruise attraction.

We’ve already taken a full tour of of the Canteen , including its three dining rooms: the Crew Mess Hall, the Falls Family Parlor, and a once-hidden meeting room for the S.E.A. But now it’s time to check out a few more of those Disney details! And with many thanks to my friend Daniel Wanderman who recently dined there, we’ve got some more to share…

In order to enter the S.E.A. Room coming from the Mess Hall, you must pass through a hallway.

Bookcases lining the hallway from the Mess Hall

As you pass, you’ll notice the hallway is lined with bookcases.

Hallway Bookcases

These shelves previously disguised the room entrance back in its hidden days, and this is where we’re zooming in to check out some of the books on the shelves.

Because pretty much every book  in the photos below has some sort of joke or nod to a Disney Legend or Imagineer, I won’t point out everything. Plus, part of the fun will be exploring them on your own (and if you’d like to do that from the comfort of your own home, just click any of the images below to enlarge)!

But we’ll start by noting that the punny humor of the Jungle Cruise attraction is in full force with a few of the books. The Illustrated Guide to Radio Broadcasting  was composed by the Skipper behind the Voice of the Jungle you hear in the Jungle Cruise queue, Albert AWOL . Also on the shelf is  Boat Evacuation Procedures by Cap. Size .

Jungle Skipper Canteen Bookshelves

I believe the author of Tiki, Tiki, Tikis of the South Pacific is a nod to Disney Legend and score composer, Buddy Baker. This isn’t the only tribute to Baker in the Magic Kingdom, as you’ll also spot his name on a Main Street U.S.A. window above Harmony Barber Shop.

Again, in this next batch we’re looking at the authors, and among them, J. Lasseter (John Lasseter who is, of course, the Chief Creative Officer of Pixar Studios) is listed as the author of  Great Characters of World Literature , while Sklar (in tribute to Disney Legend Marty Sklar) is the author of  Meeting Royalty .

And who can forget the classic tome FUZNEWI PDMWH CHF JD U 😉 ? It was written by none other than… Albert the Monkey! This isn’t the last we’ll see of Albert, by the way…

A few acknowledgments of the Skipper Canteen’s Adventureland neighbors populate the next group of books; for instance,  Native Orange Birds of the Southeastern United States reminds us of the Orange Bird from Sunshine Tree Terrace . It’s written by Dr. Sid Truss. (I had to say that one out loud to get the joke. How about you?)

Crooning Flowers isn’t only a tribute to Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room attraction, but you’ll also spy Sherman and Sherman as the authors (the brothers behind the signature song “Tiki, Tiki, Tiki, Tiki Room” and many other classic Disney songs too numerous to mention, but including “it’s a small world (after all)”. Speaking of Tikis, Prof. Boag — referencing the great Wally Boag, who voiced Jose in the Tiki Room among many other critical points in his storied career — penned the classic Songs of the Tiki Bird . And Bathing with Elephants and The Congo Queen serve as reminder of the inspiration behind the Jungle Skipper Canteen, the Jungle Cruise ride itself.

Check out the angle of The Jungle Book by Rudyard Kipling. This book is on the moveable bookshelf, the one that would allow entrance into the room. We can only assume that this is the book that members of the S.E.A. would pull to open the wall!

The books aren’t the only details in the mix, though. The society crest can be found on hats belonging to members like Dr. Alberts Falls (the man behind the name of Schweitzer FALLS from the Jungle Cruise and founder of the Jungle Navigation Co. ). Next to his hat, you’ll spot one for Albert the Monkey (primate AND famous author ;).

Society Member Caps

Henry Mystic has one as well, and anyone who has had the good fortune to visit Hong Hong Disneyland will recognize both Henry Mystic and Albert the Monkey from the Mystic Manor attraction in Hong Kong Disneyland.

Society Member Cap

And that brings us to the end of our tour for now. But do you know what the best thing about all this is? It may well be that we’ve barely scratched the surface of all the Disney Dining Details in the Jungle Skipper Canteen!

Did you spot anything else in the pictures above or during your own visit to the Skipper Canteen? Please let us know about your discoveries with a comment below!

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January 29, 2016 at 5:45 am

It’s awesome that the books with POTC references have authors by imagineers that actually worked on the attraction(Claude Coats and Blaine Gibson.) After this post I really can’t wait to eat here.

January 29, 2016 at 9:48 pm

Our amazing waitress, Emma, realized we were huge Disney nerds and basically gave us a tour of the books! The restaurant was empty and we spent 10 minutes reading the titles and authors and cracking each other up! Even she kept finding new ones she hadn’t seen before and she swears they add new ones!

February 1, 2016 at 10:39 am

If you stand there looking around long enough, cast members may even come joke around with you. When I was there in December one came up and asked, “Have you seen the Jungle Book? It’s in 3D!” as she pointed it out on the shelf.

February 22, 2021 at 6:59 pm

We just watched your vlog which showed the books at Skippers canteen. Is the spelling error in the book title ‘Boat Evacution Procedures’ intentional? Surely it should be ‘evacuation’?!

March 30, 2024 at 2:00 pm

“Fleas Navidad and Other Winter Insects” – Hart That’s me!! What an honor to be included in such a fun way.

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Break out the tissues, jungle cruise skipper has emotional last ride.

Posted by: Krysten Swensen May 9, 2024

Are you ready, ladies and gentlemen, to see something truly spectacular? Here it is, the eighth wonder of the world — the backside of water! O2H, O2H, O2H!

Okay, so is the backside of water truly the eighth wonder of the world? No. But when you ride Walt Disney’s World Famous Jungle Cruise, it sure as heck is.

Credit: Disneyland Resort

Related: Disney’s Iconic Jungle Cruise Attraction Gets an Update

Whether you ride the Jungle Cruise at Magic Kingdom, Disneyland Park, Hong Kong Disney, or Tokyo Disneyland, the attraction — and its corny jokes — never gets old. However, it’s not really the jokes that make the ride what it is , but the talented and friendly cast members who deliver the zingers in the most perfect way.

A great Jungle Cruise Skipper can really make or break the ride, and for one group, their Skipper made their night unforgettable.

Credit: Disney

Richard Barnes recently visited the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World Resort. He rode the Jungle Cruise, where his Skipper’s name was Maddie. Maddie did a fantastic job, but at the end of their journey, she began to get emotional.

Maddie shared that Richard’s group was her last group of guests, and this was her last night working on the ride. She was a part of the Disney College Program, and her time there had come to an end. The entire boat applauded Maddie and the fantastic job she did , causing the tears to flow.

Maddie made Richard’s experience so incredible that he couldn’t help but share the magical and heartwarming moment.

Last night the Jungle Cruise was our last ride of the night before closing. Skipper Maddie emotionally announced that we were her final guests and this was her last ride as er College Program had come to an end.  The Jungle Cruise has been my favorite attraction since the park opened and Skipper Maddie gave us the best experience we have ever had on the ride which ended in tears and cheering from all onboard. If anyone knows Skipper Maddie please let her know she will always be the most memorable and our most favorite Skipper we ever had. We need more cast members like Maddie. I think Walt would be very proud. 

Credit: Walt Disney World Annual Passholders Facebook

Related: Walt Disney World’s Most Complimented Cast Member Continues to Deliver Magical Memories

Disney Dining spoke with Mr. Barnes, and he could not say enough good things about Maddie. He said that she is a cast member who truly cares and reminded him of why he fell in love with Disney parks in the first place. He also said that she is a cast member others should aspire to and thanked her again for the memorable trip.

If you are visiting either Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort and have a fantastic interaction with a cast member, there is a way to let Disney know ! You can go into your My Disney Experience or Disneyland Resort mobile apps and leave a cast member compliment. Disney will ask for the cast member’s name, what area they work in, and a couple of other details to correctly identify the person.

Cast members who receive a lot of cast compliments will receive special recognition from Disney, and you can truly make their day brighter by acknowledging how hard they work.

Great job, Maddie! We are sure that everyone will miss you and the amazing job you did aboard Disney’s World-Famous Jungle Cruise!

About Krysten Swensen

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August 22, 2024

Jungle Cruise

Head Off to Adventure

Embark on a river cruise where dangerous beasts and dry wit abound. Board a canopied tramp steamer piloted by your trusty skipper, who will expertly navigate you through some of the world’s most treacherous waters.

Steam past lush foliage, butterflies and waterfalls on the Amazon in South America. Glimpse an abandoned camp overrun by curious gorillas on the shores of the African Congo. 

Along the Nile, watch for bathing elephants, angry hippos and hungry lions. Be on the lookout for a tribe of headhunters recently spotted in the area. Your cruise continues down the Mekong River in Asia, home to baboons, cobras and other fearsomely life-like creatures. 

It’s a 10-minute, 10,000-mile journey that you won't soon forget!

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