5 Reasons to Experience ‘Ohana Dinner at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Aloha! Are you on the hunt for a delicious meal and superb experience? Look no further! Here are five reasons we think everyone needs to experience dinner at Disney’s Polynesian’s ‘Ohana.

1 – Hawaiian Paradise

Whether you are staying at the spectacular Disney Polynesian Resort or stopping by for a visit, ‘Ohana should be on your list of must-do dining! The moment you enter the Polynesian Resort, you are greeted with an “Aloha” and a smile. The atmosphere will take you away to a Hawaiian paradise, surrounded by dim lighting, exotic plants, vibrant colors, and unique details. Head upstairs to check in for your dinner reservation at ‘Ohana and await to be called by a conch shell! Get ready for the bountiful food, storytelling, and games!

2 – Hawaiian Taste of Heaven

Be aware the menu at ‘Ohana has changed slightly, but you’ll still enjoy Hawaiian-flavored specialties that are served family-style! You’ll start off with the Signature ‘Ohana Bread with Honey Butter. Meats are now delivered in a skillet instead of on the skewers that were used in the past. Skillets include Woodfire-grilled Teriyaki Beef, Spicy Peel-n-Eat Shrimp, Roasted Eight-way Chicken with Polynesian-inspired Chimichurri Sauce, ‘Ohana Noodles, and Roasted Broccolini. Other sides include a mixed green salad, pork dumplings, and chicken wings. A Plant-based dinner is also available. (Click on any photo below to enlarge).

The food never stops coming either, so eat until your heart (or belly) is content. If you want more of a particular item, feel free to ask your server, as the meal is all you care to enjoy. However, you will definitely want to save room for their specialty dessert – bread pudding à la mode with caramel sauce. While it’s good, it is not the same as the original Banana Foster Bread Pudding of years past. Adults are welcome to take advantage of the bar (Tambu Lounge), which serves up some delicious, tropical drinks to your liking. Please, do yourself a favor and make an advanced dining reservation for ‘Ohana dinner. Reservations go quickly, so book the moment you can (60 days in advance) because ‘Ohana is worth it.

3 – ‘Ohana Means Family

Lilo and Stitch have it right – ‘Ohana does mean family! ‘Ohana is the perfect place to bring your family and friends alike. Our kids love seeing the huge fire in the oven, which serves as a centerpiece of the restaurant. In our opinion, the exceptional service at ‘Ohana stands above even other Disney restaurants. Cast Members seem to be enjoying themselves as they go about bringing food and refreshments time and time again. You’ll leave feeling as if you’ve just added some “cousins” to the family tree. It’s definitely all about family at ‘Ohana!

4 – Special Notes

With the large tables at ‘Ohana, ‘Ohana is one of our favorite restaurants to dine at when a large family is present (19 of us!). As mentioned above, especially with large groups, book as soon as possible. Another special note – try to book your dinner reservation roughly 45 minutes before the Magic Kingdom fireworks take place at Magic Kingdom. You’ll be glad you did with the fantastic view from ‘Ohana – especially if you ask to be seated near a window!

5 – Polynesian Perks

Before or after (or both!), be sure you take some time to enjoy the Polynesian Resort while you a visiting for dinner. The Polynesian has one of our favorite gift shops, BouTiki, with some of the most unique souvenirs! You’ll also want to check out the Polynesian beach, see the incredible new bungalows, and maybe even stay to watch some of the Electrical Water Pageant. You’ll especially love the view of Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom, which you’ll spot when you walk out the back sliding doors towards the beach/pool area. If you aren’t too full, stop by the Pineapple Lanai for a famous Dole Whip. Or have a seat in the lobby and enjoy your surroundings!

‘Ohana easily falls into our family’s top five list of favorite dining experiences at Disney, and we hope you have a chance to enjoy this restaurant. If you have dined at ‘Ohana before, we’d love to hear about your experience!