Mouse Extra

Today’s dining review is from Mike, contributing writer to Mouse Extra

It’s my understanding that ‘ohana means “family” in the Hawaiian language. For me, it means amazing scalloped potatoes. This extremely popular restaurant is located on the second floor of the main house at the Polynesian resort. It occupies a crowded space with the nearly as popular Kona café. You will notice dozens of patron standing around a too small lounge area waiting for a table. Even when equipped with a reservation, wait times can be extensive. Still, the Polynesian with its central tropical waterfall and Asian island decor make it one of the most architecturally interesting resorts in Walt Disney World. Plus, there is often entertainment in the waiting area.

The setting itself is very nice although it loses a bit of its charm due to the massive amount of people dining along with you. At its center, there is a large open fire pit where you can watch parts of your meal be prepared. There is also entertainment for the kiddies consisting of hula hoop demonstrations, coconut races, and Hawaiian dancing. Your kids come up to the center of the of the restaurant to follow the lead of a singer who also serenades the guests with Hawaiian folk songs. Don’t worry, your children will not attempt any torch juggling or fire eating.

The food is a real plus here. It is the exception to my general rule against “family style.” To me, family style is just a buffet without the variety. That is, its a buffet without its main benefit. Anyhow, the food is quite good. You start off with sweet-&-sour shrimp and honey-coated chicken wings. This followed by sirloin steak, Asian pork, mesquite-grilled turkey, and my personal favorite, Hawaiian sausage. These are accompanied by various, mostly Asian based, dipping sauces. You also get vegetables and the aforementioned potatoes.

You should be advised that the menu changes on occasion and may be different when you go. For example, dessert used to be pineapple slices covered in caramel which may sound weird but is actually delicious. Now, dessert is bread pudding topped with a banana foster sauce. Not bad, but not the same either. Nevertheless, the food is always good.

At this time, you pay $25.99 per adult. For kids, its $11.99. You have to make sure you have an ADR or you can forget about it. This place gets packed quickly. If you can swing it, you should try to get a window seat during the Magic Kingdom’s Wishes show. The view from here of the show over the castle is spectacular.

As its billing states, ‘Ohana is a place of family, laughter, and sharing.

Aloha.