Episode #165: Is Skipper Canteen the Best Restaurant in the Magic Kingdom? Our Dining Review
If you're a Disney enthusiast, especially one who loves discovering hidden gems within the Magic Kingdom, this episode of our podcast is a treat you won't want to miss. In this episode, we embark on a culinary adventure through the Skipper Canteen, a Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant that promises a unique dining experience. We delve into its rich history, thematic storytelling, and diverse menu inspired by the cuisines of Asia, South America, and Africa. With personal anecdotes and fascinating insights, we explore what makes this dining spot an underrated treasure.
The episode kicks off with a review of the Skipper Canteen dining experience. Located in Adventureland, this restaurant is a feast for the senses, offering much more than just a meal. From the moment you step in, you're greeted by playful decor and humor reminiscent of the Jungle Cruise ride. The restaurant features three uniquely themed rooms: the Mess Hall, the Jungle Room, and the SEA Room, each contributing to the immersive atmosphere. The Mess Hall retains much of the original design from the Adventureland Veranda, which opened in 1971, while the Jungle Room features wood carvings made from original Jungle Cruise docks and stained glass chandeliers inspired by the Enchanted Tiki Room.
One of the highlights of the episode is our deep dive into the Society of Explorers and Adventurers (SEA). This fictional organization is intricately woven into various Disney attractions, adding layers of storytelling and Easter eggs for keen-eyed visitors. At Skipper Canteen, you can find numerous references to SEA members, such as Harrison Hightower III, a character inspired by Imagineer Joe Rohde. The restaurant is filled with intriguing artifacts, including wood carvings from original Jungle Cruise docks and stained glass chandeliers inspired by the Enchanted Tiki Room. These elements contribute to the restaurant's rich narrative and make it a must-visit for Disney trivia lovers.
The SEA Room, accessible through a now permanently open secret library door, is a treasure trove of Disney lore. Among its many references are books like "True Life Adventures" by WED (Walter Elias Disney) and "The Wildest Ride" by J.T. Toad (J. Thaddeus Toad). These books, along with others like "Scaling the Matterhorn" and "Songs of the Tiki Bird," add depth to the restaurant's theme. Real books like "The Swiss Family Robinson," "Tom Sawyer," and "The Jungle Book" are also featured, with "The Jungle Book" being the book you pull to open the secret door. The room includes large maps of mythological creatures charted by SEA members, a display wall of butterfly specimens, and a painting of Dr. Albert Falls discovering the Cambodian temple seen in the Jungle Cruise.
As we discuss the lunch menu, we highlight some of the standout dishes that make Skipper Canteen a culinary adventure. Appetizers like the Brazilian cheese bread, known as pão de queijo, are a hit with diners. The diverse menu includes items like the Falls Family Falafel, Orinoco Ida's Cachapas, and the Jungle Green Salad. Entrees range from Dr. Falls' Signature Grilled Steak and Curried Vegetable Crew Stew to the sustainable fish dish and Nile Nelly's Noodle Bowl. For those who enjoy a bit of trivia with their meal, the restaurant's playful descriptions and hidden references add an extra layer of enjoyment.
Our personal experiences at Skipper Canteen further underscore why this restaurant is a hidden gem. The Taste Like Chicken Because It Is dish, with its perfectly cooked fried chicken and chili soy glaze, stands out as one of the best fried chicken dishes we've ever had. The Hearty Har Char Siu Pork, marinated and served with house-pickled vegetables and jasmine rice, is another highlight, offering tender and flavorful bites. Even the Junior Skip's Macaroni and Cheese with fruit is a hit with the younger diners, making the restaurant a family-friendly option.
In addition to the delicious food and immersive atmosphere, Skipper Canteen offers a glimpse into the captivating lore of the SEA and its connections to beloved Disney attractions. Artifacts like the barrel containing water from the backside of water and the Jingle Cruise decorations add to the restaurant's charm. The playful decor and humorous interactions with the servers, who act as Jungle Cruise skippers, further enhance the dining experience.
The episode concludes with a passionate debate about why Skipper Canteen remains an underrated dining option in the Magic Kingdom. Despite its rich history, thematic storytelling, and diverse menu, it often flies under the radar compared to other dining spots in the park. We discuss its family-friendly accommodations, especially for picky eaters, and highlight the backstory of Alberta Falls and her connection to Dr. Albert Falls, adding an element of Disney trivia to the conversation.
In summary, this episode of our podcast offers a comprehensive review of Skipper Canteen, showcasing its unique blend of delicious food, immersive storytelling, and playful decor. Whether you're a Disney trivia enthusiast, a family looking for a fun dining experience, or simply a foodie eager to try diverse cuisines, Skipper Canteen has something to offer. We invite you to join us on this culinary adventure and discover why this Jungle Cruise-themed restaurant is a must-visit in Disney's Magic Kingdom.
