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7 Things We Love About ‘Ohana

Ohanas

Aloha! Disney’s Polynesian Resort is perfect for those wanting to relax and enjoy the tropical, Pacific oasis with lush greenery, exotic plant life, koi ponds, beaches, and a pool surrounding an immense volcano. Talk about feeling like you’re in a tropical paradise! The restaurants at the Polynesian Resort are also extremely exotic and delicious, including one of the most popular places to dine, ‘Ohana. ‘Ohana, which is known for its family style dining, is popular for many reasons, but here are the top seven reasons as to why you should put it at the top of your to-do list for your next trip to the happiest place on earth!

7. Theme

Hawaiian paradise flare meets Disney Resort magic in this unique Polynesian setting. No matter where you look, you will feel like you’re on an island oasis with the combination of tiki totem poles, statues inspired by those on Easter Island, warm & lush greenery and the infusion of tropical, chic color palates with exotic marine life print on the furniture and wooden accents. In the center of the restaurant, you will find an enormous 18-foot oak fire pit where chefs are cooking various meats and shrimp on skewers (which are displayed quite nicely). The cast members are all dressed in island attire and you will notice they say a few Hawaiian terms throughout your time there. I personally love how they refer to you as their “cousins” which really gives the restaurant name credibility. The music played is also tropical, including tunes from the beloved Disney film, Lilo & Stitch. The windows surrounding the restaurant also have a nice view of the resort, really giving it that tropical immersion. The Tambu Lounge, located right next to ‘Ohana, is a great way to grab a drink and relax before waiting to be seated, or just to unwind. It is also decorated with the same thematic décor as ‘Ohana, so you can feel the island vibes no matter what! And of course, nothing says theme more than food. There are several Hawaiian-style dishes for dinner that also make you feel like you’re in a tropical paradise. The elegance of this restaurant combined with its tropical ambiance is a great way to relax and enjoy a fantastic meal with your friends and family.

6. Family Style Dining

‘Ohana is known for their family style dining. Breakfast is served in large skillets (which are all you can eat) and includes fresh tropical fruit along with scrambled eggs, bacon, sausage, classic Mickey and Stitch waffles, assorted sweet breads, and much, more. The juice served at breakfast has to be one of my favorite drinks of all time. Guava, passion fruit, and orange juices are all combined and guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. Dinner is absolutely spectacular as well. Start off with salads and some delicious pineapple coconut bread. After that, enjoy pork dumplings and honey coriander chicken wings. Once you’ve indulged in these starters, get ready for steak, chicken, and shrimp skewers which are accompanied with teriyaki noodles and stir-fried veggies. All of these meats and salads are tossed in very unique sauces, which include peanut, sweet and sour, and Lilli koi dressing. Finish off your dinner with the amazing bread pudding dessert. Don’t be afraid to ask for more because all of these starters, entrees, and desserts are all-you-care-to-eat! You can’t go wrong with this island cuisine!

5. Character Interactions

For breakfast only, join Mickey, Pluto, Lilo, and Stitch in their tropical island attire as they travel from table to table to interact with guests. No need to worry about waiting in line (in the hot sun) to meet Mickey and his friends, since they travel from table to table and mingle with guests. I love that Mickey is dressed in a Hawaiian shirt and all of his pals wear leis. It is very unique and makes for great pictures since they are not in their usual attire.

4. Disney Dining Plan

‘Ohana is one of the restaurants that is well worth using a Disney Dining Plan credit for. Some character dining experiences and higher end dining restaurants require 2 dining credits, but ‘Ohana only requires 1 if you are on the regular dining, deluxe, premium, and platinum plans. There is a plethora of food to enjoy and with the theming and activities going on, it is well worth the use of a credit!

Bonus Tip!

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3. Magic Kingdom Views

Not only are the views of the Polynesian resort beautiful and perfect for the restaurant, but there are also clear views of the Magic Kingdom. The Cinderella Castle is beautifully lit (at night) and if you are dining here in the late evening, you will be able to see the fireworks from the parks! This is a great alternative to watching it in the parks because it offers a more relaxed feel than being in the center of the parks. Another treat is being able to see the Electrical Eater Pageant (which is only offered at the Magic Kingdom Resort hotels). This cute little parade can be seen right from the windows of the restaurant and is a great entertainment for all members of your family.

2. Kid Friendly Activities

Kids love having fun, and ‘Ohana definitely offers fun with its kid friendly activities. Children young and old can participate in coconut races, hula hooping, and dancing to island music all take place during both breakfast and dinner. Characters also participate in these games (only during breakfast), which is not only more fun, but it also makes for great picture opportunities!

1. ‘Ohana Pineapple Coconut Bread and Bread Pudding a la mode

If you love carbs, and dessert, you will fall in love with ‘Ohanas signature guests favorites. Warm and fluffy pineapple coconut bread is served with dinner. It is a unique flavor and unlike anything you will try elsewhere. After indulging in a dinner feast, make sure you have room for dessert. The bread pudding at ‘Ohana is by far my favorite dessert on Disney property. The warm bread pudding is topped with a heaping scoop of vanilla ice cream and drizzled with a bananas-caramel sauce that is beyond delicious. The best part about this is that dessert is included in the price of your dinner! No additional cost for dessert sounds like a great way to dine!

BONUS TIP: Consider planning and booking your next Disney trip with an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner you can trust like Mickey Travels. They’ll help you get the best Walt Disney World deal, share expert advice and their services are totally FREE! It’s genius!

About Natalie

Natalie is an elementary school teacher and a native Floridian who lives and breathes all things Disney. Her love for Disney started at the age of two during her first visit, and has continued to flourish into her adult life. She loves to share her Disney passion with her students and believes Disney is so special because there is no other place to forget about your worries and be a kid again, which is why she refuses to ‘grow up’.

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