Why Disney’s Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World is a Secret Foodie Paradise

Ah, Disney’s Animal Kingdom; come for the animals, stay for the…food? The wild side of Walt Disney World is way more than just a zoo with rides (we will never forget nahtazu).

In fact, Animal Kingdom might actually be one of the best spots in the World to explore if you love all things food. Need proof?

Trek with us to discover why Disney’s Animal Kingdom is a dreamland for foodies!

Sheer Variety

Adventure is part of the core concept of Animal Kingdom, and they’ve even infused that mantra into their menus. The variety of cuisines featured in the park is one of the best selections in Disney World, so you’re probably going to find at least one thing that you really like.

Adventurous eaters will especially enjoy that Animal Kingdom doesn’t only serve up generic “theme park food”. The lands that inspire the park also inspire its menus, with bold flavors from Africa, Asia, and other parts of the world that you wouldn’t find in your average theme park.

Location, Location, Location

Everyone knows that the first thing you’re supposed to do with your meal is post that selfie to the ‘gram, so you’re going to need a good backdrop for your photo. Okay, so maybe you’re not looking for a food glamor shot, but ambiance is an equally important part to enjoying a meal, and Animal Kingdom has ambiance in spades.

You can be surrounded by the bioluminescence of Pandora or relax across the lake from the Forbidden Mountain. Either way, you’ll have plenty of room to stretch out since Animal Kingdom dedicates a lot of space to areas with open-air seating.

Flame Tree Barbecue

Just when we think we’re out, Flame Tree Barbecue pulls us back in. While they don’t have the amazing pulled pork cheese fries available anymore (#bringitback), this is still a great place to grab some barbecue whether you’re mobile ordering or taking advantage of the Disney Dining Plan (get the best of both worlds with the Ribs and Chicken Combo that counts for one Quick Service credit).

This is where you can find Baked Macaroni and Cheese with Pulled Pork (until Eight Spoon Cafe reopens) that comes with onion rings and coleslaw on top. It’s easy to split this with someone as a snack, but we won’t judge if you decide you need it all to yourself.

Buffalo Chicken Chips

Right as you’re entering DinoLand U.S.A, you’ll find Trilo-Bites, which is where you can order yourself some Buffalo Chicken Chips. This is about the closest thing you’re going to find to nacho goodness in Animal Kingdom.

Kettle chips piled with buffalo chicken, ranch dressing, tomatoes, and chopped celery? Yes, please. Again, this little number makes for a perfect snack to share before you head to DINOSAUR or to catch a showing of Finding Nemo: The Musical.

Sweet Treat Retreat

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, then do we have good news for you. Animal Kingdom is absolutely teeming with unique sweet snacks for you to try, whether you’re beating the heat or just need a sugar rush to get through the rest of the day.

We’d recommend you jump on the flaky Tiger Tail pastry (Animal Kingdom’s version of the Cheshire Tail) at Isle of Java or the Bugs ‘n Grubs Cupcake for cupcake fans over at Flame Tree Barbecue. Of course, we can’t forget about the one and only Pongu Lumpia at Pongu Pongu, which goes great with a refreshing Night Blossom (use those snack credits to your heart’s content).

Satu’li Canteen

If Animal Kingdom has a thesis in food, it would probably be Satu’li Canteen. The themes of adventure and exploration come alive through the experience of making your own protein bowl and the flavors at your disposal.

You have a vast amount of tasteful options available, including grilled chicken, marinated beef, fried tofu, chili-garlic shrimp and cheeseburger pods, and that’s just for the protein. It’s something altogether unique for “theme park food. Where else can you find boba balls on your protein bowl?

What are some of your favorite eats in Animal Kingdom? Let us know down in the comments!

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