Aloha, Vanessa!
It’s wonderful to see you again at planDisney! We sure do love researching Guest questions, but I’m also honored that you came asking for my opinion based on my experience to help you with this delicious decision. I’ve enjoyed both breakfast and dinner at
‘Ohana, one of my absolute favorite restaurants at the
Walt Disney World Resort. Pull up a tiki chair and let’s discuss!
I adore a big breakfast on vacation, and the offerings at the Best Friends Breakfast can’t be beat. They are served family style, and you’ll find traditional breakfast favorites plus some tropical flavors and the Instagram-worthy Stitch waffle! I admit our wild child alien experiment isn’t my top favorite Disney character, but he’s always fun to meet and usually brings along some other familiar pals for morning hugs. You can enjoy a glass or two of the island's favorite pineapple-orange-guava juice as well (also offered at Tusker House if you miss this meal). The best part of breakfast at ‘Ohana, for me, is the luscious pressed pot of Kona coffee – it’s meant for two, but I savor the whole thing. The atmosphere of the Great Ceremonial House is a bit quieter at breakfast hours than later in the day when activity picks up.
My favorite experience at ‘Ohana is dinner – I crave those savory peel-n-eat shrimp and especially love the noodles, wings, and potstickers. While there aren’t any characters at this meal, you’ll love the Asian-fusion flavors with tropical flair. Be sure to look at the open-style grill as you pass by to be seated; this is where all the meats will be cooked to perfection for your dinner. This meal is also served family style but please know that it’s a little more hands-on to eat (it’s kind of messy, in a fun way). This is an all-you-care-to-eat experience though, so you can avoid the finger-licking shrimp and wings if you or your family prefer proper utensils and clean hands while still enjoying plenty of hearty dishes. I’ve even
made the honey-coriander chicken wings at home a few times! I like to add a fun island drink with dinner, such as the pineapple-poured Lapu Lapu, and everyone loves the heavenly bread pudding with caramel sauce. There's something magical about the live ukulele music serenading you at dinner; I know you'll love it.
If you are seeking a dinner reservation, my best tip is to make an earlier dining reservation (close to opening time, if possible). This is a meal to linger over, and it tends to be much busier at the Great Ceremonial House as the evening goes on. I also like to request a window table at the host stand if available for those Magic Kingdom views across the Seven Seas Lagoon, and your chances are much higher if they haven’t sat many parties yet (earlier in the evening).
You can’t go wrong with either meal at this classic Disney establishment, Vanessa! No matter what you decide, you will be welcomed with warm hospitality and treated like true
‘ohana at this special restaurant.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is so beloved because it has a deep culture that envelops you in the island spirit and just makes you feel at home and refreshed, whatever the time of day.
Thanks again for asking my opinion! I love to share my experiences to help you have the most magical vacation with less stress. Hope to see you again real soon.
Mahalo,Amy