Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World is home to an incredible variety of dining options, from quick snacks to elaborate meals scattered across the theme parks, water parks, Disney Springs, and resort hotels. One standout dining destination lies at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, a tropical haven located on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon just across from Magic Kingdom.
With its South Seas ambiance and delectable culinary options, the Polynesian Village Resort is a must-visit, and one restaurant that continues to delight guests is Kona Café. Nestled on the second floor of the Great Ceremonial House, Kona Café serves up island-inspired flavors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Here are nine reasons why dining at Kona Café is a highlight of any Disney vacation.
1. A Relaxing, Open-Air Atmosphere
Kona Café boasts a welcoming open-air design, allowing guests to take in the vibrant energy of the Great Ceremonial House while dining. Situated on the second floor, the restaurant offers sweeping views of the Polynesian’s stunning chandelier, made from colorful glass orbs and rope accents, as well as the lush greenery below. The light, airy atmosphere is enhanced by tropical tones and dark wood accents, creating the perfect setting to unwind after a busy day at the parks.
2. The Legendary Tonga Toast
Breakfast at Kona Café is synonymous with one iconic dish: Tonga Toast. This beloved offering is a thick slice of French toast stuffed with sweet bananas, rolled in cinnamon sugar, and served with a side of strawberry compote. Guests can pair this decadent dish with their choice of ham, spiced ham, bacon, or sausage. Tonga Toast’s legendary status among Disney fans makes it a can’t-miss breakfast option.
Credit: Disney
3. Liliko’i Juice – A Refreshing Island Treat
To complement the tropical vibe of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Kona Café serves Liliko’i Juice, a refreshing blend of orange, passion fruit, and guava juices. This fruity beverage is available during breakfast hours and perfectly captures the flavors of the islands. Guests seeking a little sparkle can also enjoy a mimosa version of Liliko’i Juice for an extra indulgence.
4. Freshly Brewed Kona Coffee
Start your day with an authentic taste of Hawaii by ordering a fresh-pressed pot of Kona Coffee. Sourced from Hawaiian-grown Kona Maragogype beans, this coffee is robust, aromatic, and considered one of the finest blends in the world. Whether you need a pick-me-up before heading to Magic Kingdom or simply enjoy savoring premium coffee, this is a delightful way to energize your morning.
5. Signature Specialty Drinks
As the day transitions from morning to evening, Kona Café delights guests with a variety of specialty cocktails that bring the flavors of the tropics to life. A fan-favorite is the Lapu Lapu, a tropical concoction of dark rum and fruit juices served inside a hollowed-out pineapple and topped with a splash of Gosling’s 151 Rum. Other signature cocktails like the Kona Cool Sundown and Tropical Macaw keep the island vibes flowing.
Credit: Disney
6. Delectable Appetizers
A meal at Kona Café is best experienced from start to finish, and the appetizers here are worth savoring. Guests rave about the Pot Stickers, pork and vegetable dumplings paired with a soy-ginger cream sauce, pickled vegetables, and chives. Other mouthwatering starters include the Kona Crab Cakes, Sticky Wings with tangy sauce, and the fresh Island Tuna Poke. Don’t forget to save room for the main event!
7. Island-Inspired Main Courses
The main dishes at Kona Café take classic flavors and elevate them with tropical twists. One standout entrée is the Miso-Buttered Strip Loin, served with scallion-mashed potatoes, misoyaki eggplant, a sake reduction, and wild mushrooms. Other tempting choices include the Mango-Goat Cheese Stuffed Chicken Breast, Asian Stir Fry, and Dashi Noodle Bowl. Each dish is artfully crafted to blend bold flavors with fresh ingredients.
8. A Fresh Sushi Menu
For sushi lovers, Kona Café is a dream come true. The sushi menu features a wide variety of options, from classic rolls to creative specialties. Highlights include the Hamachi Tuna-Cilantro Roll, the savory Dragon Roll, and the Kona Sampler for those who want to try a little bit of everything. Whether enjoyed as a main course or shared as a table appetizer, the sushi is always fresh and expertly prepared.
9. Decadent Desserts
No meal at Walt Disney World is complete without dessert, and Kona Café delivers with indulgent treats inspired by the islands. Guests can enjoy the charming Te Fiti’s Island Mousse, a passion fruit and coconut mousse dome accompanied by pineapple and a seasonal sorbet.
Credit: Resorts Gal
Other sweet options include the Chocolate Fondue, Kona Mocha Crémeux, and the whimsical Kona Kone, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Why You Should Visit Kona Café
Kona Café combines delicious flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a touch of island magic to create an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast favorites like Tonga Toast and Kona Coffee, enjoying a sushi platter for lunch, or sipping a Lapu Lapu in the evening, this restaurant has something to offer everyone.
On your next visit to Walt Disney World, make sure to carve out time for a meal at Kona Café—you won’t regret it!
