Trader Sam's Grog Grotto

The best experience of our vacation (and we did the Mickey’s not so scary Halloween party). Great drinks and great atmosphere. There are specialty drinks that come with their own special effects. The staff are very interactive but an introvert can also be comfortable. Chris the bartender was fantastic and hilarious. Some drinks come with the option of a souvenir mug which are sturdy and very detailed. If you’re lucky when ordering the pearl you might get a black one! We had a blast and highly recommend. One thing to note, the wait time is long but worth it.

This place is by the far the BEST at creating atmosphere! This little restaurant and bar is a great getaway for all you adults visiting Disneyworld! My fiancé and I were just curious about visiting this place during our adventure, but didn’t know we needed reservations (the wait can be well past an hour). We were lucky it was only 20 minutes, so next time we will remember to reserve seats ahead of time! When you walk in, there is Polynesian-inspired decor and furnishings everywhere. We got some drinks, since we had just had dinner elsewhere. My fiancé got the Zombie, and I got their mock-tail. Both drinks were fruity with a hint of spice to them, and were very nice! We purchased the cups they came in as souvenirs! What makes this place really stand out, however, is the atmosphere. Each time someone orders a specialty drink, different lights will flash, decorations will come alive, and the Cast Members will shout different things. I will not spoil exactly what happens (that’s part of the fun as you discover what happens with each drink!) but it sure was hilarious and magical at the same time! Some of the drinks themselves come in collectible glasses and mugs, and one has a chance to be a rare variation! You can ask your incredible Cast Members (they are amazing for always putting in 100%!) about the specialty drinks and what you can purchase to take home. If you’re looking for a fun, adults-only reprieve, this enchanted restaurant and bar is for you. I highly recommend it!

Must try spot when visiting Disney or Orlando! The ultimate Disney bar experience. You have to get there early because they don't take reservations, it's a small bar, & it's first come first seated. They will take your phone number & text you when your table is ready. Each drink you order has a special effect on the entire restaurant. For example, if you order the pearl drink, special lighting, music, & a little show by the bar tender will happen. Without spoiling the fun, there are some drinks that have epic interactions such as putting out fire yourself using cinnamon. The food is only ok, the drinks are more fun than mind blowing, but it's all worth the heavy price tag.

We had a fabulous time here. Get there early (before they open!) to put your name on the list. We were there just before 2 to put our names in and got in around 4:30. The cast members were fantastic and so nice. The service was quick, but we never felt rushed. We got the sushi roll and dumplings to go with our drinks. The sushi roll was okay, not the best I've ever had, but the dumplings were delicious.

If you're looking for a great tiki experience, this bar is a must. The atmosphere sells it. The service, and their devotion to the atmosphere, sells it. The drinks are on point, and very Polynesian (no pun intended). If you're looking to start a collection of tiki mugs, start the challenge here, and it will never end. 🙂 Get in line early, and be prepared to wait at the Polynesian just like you would any ride at Disney. It's a small space, but well worth the wait if you're into tiki cocktails and experiences.

TIPS FROM A LOCAL! While there is almost always a long wait to get through the door, try to walk up later in the evening, especially during the fireworks, for easier walk in service. With a little luck, and a small table of two, during the fireworks on a weeknight, you can likely grab a table easily. The drinks are FUN, I love the Spickey dole whip drink for adults. The dumplings are fast and yummy. The server cast members are outstanding. Trader Sam’s is a must visit for every WDW loving fan.