Jiko – The Cooking Place: Upscale African Dining Inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Looking for an immersive, themed dining experience that takes you beyond theme park fare? Jiko – The Cooking Place, located inside Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, offers a sophisticated take on African cuisine in a setting that’s as visually stunning as the food is flavorful. But is it worth the high price tag? We visited to find out.
Atmosphere & Setting: African Safari Luxury
The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a destination in itself. Inspired by the spirit and architecture of an African safari lodge, the entire resort is beautifully designed and richly detailed. As you make your way to Jiko, don’t miss the savanna behind the lodge, where you can spot antelopes, water buffalo, and massive pelicans roaming freely—a unique and unexpected bonus.
Jiko is located just off the lobby and is filled with African-themed décor, warm lighting, wood elements, and rich, earthy tones. The ceiling mimics an African sunset, and the walls are adorned with subtle tribal patterns and art. The bar area is small but elegant, and the vibe throughout the restaurant is upscale yet relaxed. Several members of the staff are from Africa, which adds authenticity and depth to the experience.
Dining Experience: Elegant, Flavorful, and Very Disney
Jiko offers a refined take on African cuisine, with an emphasis on bold spices, wood-fired cooking, and African wines. From the moment you’re seated, the culinary experience begins. We were served a house-made African-style bread with spiced butter—a thoughtful and flavorful start that set the tone for the evening.
For dinner, I had the short rib, which was perfectly cooked, fork-tender, and served with African garnishes that added a layer of rich, earthy complexity. It was beautifully plated and melt-in-your-mouth good. My guest chose the sirloin steak with asparagus, and it was another winner—juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked exactly to order.
The wine list is entirely South African, and even the cocktail menu nods to African flavors and ingredients. The staff was knowledgeable and eager to explain the origins and inspirations behind the dishes and drinks.
The Bottom Line: A Beautiful Experience That Comes at a Cost
Jiko – The Cooking Place delivers on its promise of transporting guests to another world through flavor, setting, and service. The food was delicious, the decor gorgeous, and the overall vibe elevated but welcoming.
That said, this is not a casual or budget-friendly meal. While the quality was high and the experience memorable, the pricing may be steep for what you actually get. Still, if you’re looking for a unique Disney dining experience that blends culture, storytelling, and top-tier cooking, and you don’t mind the splurge, Jiko is worth a visit.
Pro Tip: Reservations are strongly recommended—there are only a few tables for walk-ins, and they go quickly.
