Jiko-The Cooking Place: Disney's African Cuisine Experience

Jiko-The Cooking Place: Disney’s African Cuisine Experience

Written by Carol Cain on 25 October 2010

I was still getting used to the sights and sounds coming from outside my balcony window at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, when it was time to to leave my room and enjoy some time with friends over dinner.

Our dining choice: Jiko-The Cooking Place, Animal Kingdom’s on-site restaurant where guests can enjoy many delicious dishes with African, Indian, and Mediterranean flair.

I only had African cuisine once before -Ethiopian specifically- and was very curious to see how this experience would compare. Though I must admit that when it comes to fine-dining at Disney, they know their stuff. I am not much a fun of the food court choices anywhere, especially in parks, but a look back at the list I put together of the various dining experiences at Disney and you can tell that it is worth a night out, even if it’s a date night out, during your visit.

It is recommended you make a reservation, especially during high tourist season. We did and waited for only a short while. The atmosphere is cozy and even romantic, though of course families are welcomed. They have a separate dining room area that can be reserved for private events as well.

The wine list is extensive, featuring one of the largest selections of South African vintages in North America and has won multiple awards, including the Orlando Sentinel Foodie Best Wine List Award and the Wine Spectator Excellence Award for Most Outstanding Wine List.

One of the things I noticed right away was that their specialty is in their flat breads. I could tell because of the delicious servings I saw coming out of their twin wood-burning ovens. In addition to these, the menu includes vegan, vegetarian and meat-based dishes that change seasonal.

I started my meal on that evening with a Jiko Seasonal Salad with Florida Peaches, Walnut Brittle, Humboldt Fog Cheese and Peach Vinaigrette which we shared with the table. Also lovely was the Sweet Corn Bisque with Lump Crab, Pickled Celery and Cilantro-Green Chili Yogurt.

I followed my starter with Grilled Shrimp Curry with Citrus-Coconut Basmati, Summer Vegetables, and Durban Curry Sauce. Incredible.

Another popular dish that evening was the Oak-grilled Filet Mignon with Macaroni & Cheese and Red Wine Sauce. The steak was juicy, tender, and full of flavor. Grilled to perfection.

I ended this amazing dining experience with a Jiko Trio, a flourless Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Mousse, and Caramel Ice Cream. Others enjoyed the Cheesecake with Lemon Cream, Spiced Blueberry Coulis, Blueberry Compote, and Sesame “Bee Sting”.

The amazing wine, the incredible food, the warm, inviting atmosphere and the great company led to an evening I will not soon forget.

When in Orlando, FL, I encourage you to visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge and enjoy the scenes and end your experience with a fascinating meal at Jiko-The Cooking Place.

Disclosure: Travel and accommodations were provided courtesy of Disney Media for the purpose of this review. The views and opinions expressed here are strictly my own. For more information please refer to the disclosure page.