Ahoy, Amber, and welcome to planDisney! Thank you for stopping by to ask this great question about one of my very favorite dining locations in all of Disneyland Resort for its atmosphere and unique dining experience - Trader Sam's!
Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar is an out-of-park oasis inspired by the world-famous Jungle Cruise that transports you to a tropical paradise. It is a unique treasure where you can find many delicious tropical drinks and bites on (and off) the menu. Adventure and mystery await you at this enchanted tiki bar - I'm so excited for you!
Advance dining reservations are highly recommended for Trader Sam's and can be made up to 60 days prior to your visit, usually beginning at 6am PST. Select the blue "
Check Available Days" on the
Trader Sam's page to confirm your party size and desired date. You can also make a dining reservation through the
Disneyland app by locating Trader Sam's Enchanted Tiki Bar on the park map and selecting "Reserve Dining."
If you didn't snag the dining reservation date or time you had your heart set on, Amber, it's okay! Even up to 24 hours before, or the morning of, reservation spots do sometimes become available, so keep checking!
However, reservations aren't even required! You can always join the walk-up list! In the Disneyland app, search for “Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar," select “Join Walk-Up List” when you are nearby and add your party. Then, while you wait to be seated, check out the miniature Big Thunder Mountain diorama of Frontierland's famous coaster on the first floor of the Frontier Tower lobby. This model is a re-creation of the original used by Imagineers in the 1970s to create Big Thunder. It is incredible and enthralled our whole family – and not just because it is one of our all-time favorite rides!
You should know, Amber, that Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar offers indoor and outdoor seating, both with their own unique feel. The smaller, indoor space has more of the tiki bar vibe, featuring very funny and knowledge bartenders and surprises around every turn. Although indoors is very fun, and tends to be the more popular option, my family actually prefers sitting outdoors nestled within palm trees, tiki torches and the iconic Disneyland Hotel.
Upon check-in, request if you'd like indoor or outdoor seating, and Cast Members will do their best to accommodate.
If you're looking for menu recommendations, Amber, I always get the Tempura-Battered Green Beans! These delicious bites come with an aioli dipping sauce that is so good, I can never get enough! I also, personally, like the Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum specialty drink or the festive little Liquid Luau - a secret menu item you'll need to ask your server about!
I hope this information has been helpful for you in your planning, Amber! If you have any additional questions or would like to chat more about my favorite topic (food at Disneyland), please don't hesitate to reach out again and
ask another question! I'm your girl.
Cheers,
McCayla