Hi Candace,
I love that you are trying a new resort at Walt Disney World. My family and I love trying all of the different resorts. Each has its own unique magic.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is amazing. From the rich and beautiful decor to the myriad of recreation options, including many focused on the animals, this resort has so much to offer. Yes, the savanna view rooms afford views of exotic animals, including the likes of warthogs and giraffes!
The buffet at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is
Boma - Flavors of Africa. I enjoy this buffet because it offers a taste of African fare, and also has some options for those who prefer more traditional American fare. This buffet offers breakfast and dinner; however, you can make a breakfast reservation as late at 11:00 a.m., so this might suit your lunch needs. If not, there is also the quick service option of The Mara which serves lunch.
All transportation from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is by bus. You can get to any of the four Walt Disney World theme parks, two water parks, or Disney Springs by bus from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. Due to the nature of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, with the expansive savannas, it is a bit removed from the rest of the theme parks. The furthest away is Magic Kingdom. The bus ride there can run 20 minutes or more. To Disney's Hollywood Studios the bus ride is shorter, probably around 10 minutes. A bus should never be more than a 20 minute wait when you arrive at the bus stop, so you should budget about 30 minutes to get to Disney's Hollywood Studios, and closer to 45 minutes to get to Magic Kingdom.
Have a great time planning your magical vacation, Candace, and please do let us know if you have any further questions!