On our most recent trip to Magic Kingdom we decided to branch out from our favorite places to eat and experience Skipper’s Canteen for the first time. We had high expectations based on what we had seen and heard.
To begin our experience we had fast passes for the Jungle Cruise followed by lunch reservations for our meal. If you have never experience the Jungle Cruise, I recommend it whole heartedly for the pun lover in all of us! And of course the ride sets the mood for the meal. You might call it the perfect appetizer.
Of course, Disney knows how to theme. So, it was no shock that the restaurant itself fell in line with the design and theme of the Jungle Cruise. As the story goes, in order to increase revenue, the owner of the Jungle Cruise has decided to convert their main offices into a restaurant.
“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!” – From Disney’s website.
We were seated at a combo booth and seat table right next to the kitchen. While I normally have a terrible experience that close to the kitchen I did not find it to be the worst table because it seemed we were not as crowded as other tables appeared to be. This is, of course, to be expected from one of the most visited places on earth.
My son, who is incredibly picky and on the spectrum, requested a Grilled Cheese from our waitress. This item was not listed on the children’s menu but she promptly returned to our table to let us know the kitchen would be able to fulfill his request. (This mama gives extra points for that!!) My daughter went with the Crispy Chicken and it was a win in her book! Mostly because she selected on side and a scoop of ice cream for her second side.
The menu felt much more high end than other Disney dining we had experienced and it delivered on it’s impressions. First we ordered drinks. My husband had a beer while I enjoyed the Spiced Sangria. We started with both the Falls Family Fallafel and the S.E.A. Shu Mai. The Shu Mai was one my husband really enjoyed. When we go back, will try another appetizer. While both were good, neither lived up to the entree portion of the meal. But next time I will likely try the Shiriki Noodle Salad or the Orinoco Ida’s Cachapas.
Moving onto the entree, my husband ordered the Perkins Thai Noodles. I would give you my feedback…. But he ate every single bite before offering me any… so when that happens I know it was outstanding. I enjoyed the “Tastes like Chicken” Because it is! at the recommendation of our waitress. I am glad I did. The mostly boneless portion of perfectly fried chicken was served on a bed of jasmine rice with a slightly spicy chili glaze and perfectly cooked seasonal vegetables. The chili glaze can be requested on the side if you are not one to enjoy a little kick. However, next time I order this, I plan to request extra sauce. It really took this meal to the next level. By the time our meal was said and done, we opted out of dessert because we were far too full.
All in all, I would strongly suggest Skippers Canteen if you are looking for a sit down meal with more to offer than the standard burger, fries and park cuisine.
Location: Magic Kingdom, Adventureland
About the Author:
Heather Dobbins, Enchanted Planner
Heather literally grew up at Disney World with her childhood home just down the street. The frequent visits instilled in her a love for all things Disney magic. After becoming a mom, Disney became a sort of honorary family member, taking trips as often as monthly with her children. As a special needs mom, Heather can offer guidance to other parents on how to make the most of a Disney trip no matter their unique circumstances. Heather grew up between Florida, Georgia and Texas and considers them all home.
