Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is celebrating the 25th anniversary of its renowned Jiko restaurant with a special event featuring new menu offerings. The celebration included Chef Eddie Mendoza and Sommelier Bryon Kelly presenting an array of dishes inspired by African flavors. Diners sampled appetizers like hen of the woods mushroom bites and Giraffe rolls with house-made cocoa butter. Main courses featured diver scallops with pork belly, seared venison prepared sous vide, and various wine pairings from Western Cape to Shiraz blends. Desserts included Amarula-infused Malva Cake, Melktert custard, and a layered chocolate cherry Potije Pot that reviewers favored most. The review highlights how Jiko makes adventurous African cuisine approachable while maintaining its reputation for quality dining experiences at the resort.
Key Points:
- Jiko restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is celebrating its 25th anniversary
- Chef Eddie Mendoza and Sommelier Bryon Kelly planned a special evening event for the celebration
- New menu offerings were showcased including hen of the woods mushroom appetizers and Giraffe rolls with cocoa butter
- Main dishes included diver scallops with pork belly, seared venison prepared sous vide, and various wine pairings
- Desserts featured Amarula-infused Malva Cake, Melktert custard, and a layered chocolate cherry Potije Pot that was the favorite
- The restaurant is known for making African-inspired cuisine approachable to guests