Sometimes when you visit a resort, you have no desire to leave it. Venturing out to explore just seems like a task when all you really want to do is just kick back and relax. During our recent stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, we wanted to do just that ~ relax. So, we decided to make the most of our dining reservations with restaurants located right there at the resort. Since we were staying at Kidani Village, Sanaa just happened to be one of those places that made the reservation list.
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Experiencing Sanaa
Sanaa is located on the bottom level of Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. It is accessible by stairs found in the main lobby or by elevator found a short ways away to the right. The restaurant has an East African-inspired menu and is designed to give Guests the feel of being in the middle of a traditional spice market. One of the two biggest draws to this location is the opportunity to dine with a unique and spectacular view. While feasting on your exotic cuisine (or the bread service – the other big draw), you can watch gazelles, giraffes, wildebeests and more roaming the savanna, which sits just on the other side of the glass.
We decided to book a lunch reservation here, taking the morning to enjoy the pool with plans to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom park in the afternoon. We arrived with ravenous appetites and very curious about what this place had to offer. I have heard tremendous reviews from friends and was very eager and interested in formulating our own opinions.
Meeting our server
Once we checked in, it didn’t take long to be seated and meet our server, Tracy. As is our standard, the first thing we review is our son’s food allergies and Tracy agreed to send the Chef over to discuss safe options for him. Once that was established, she then took opportunity to explain a little more about the menu with us and how it worked.
One of the main highlights of the Sanaa menu is the bread service ~ which comes very highly recommended! Tracy talked about the five Indian styled breads they serve and the nine different accompaniments from which Guests can choose. With an individual order, a Guest can choose from the five different breads and three of the nine accompaniments. Of course, if you have a table of curious appetites like ours did, there is an option that allows Guests to try all nine condiments for a little extra cost.
At that point, Tracy then explained the various entrees offered, but spent a great deal of time sharing details about the Potjie Inspired entrée. We were quite intrigued ~ to say the least. This allows Guests to choose one option from two different food group choices – Journey (protein) and Harvest (carb / starch). Once she explained how that all worked and answered all of our questions about the menu (we are always full of questions), she gave us a few minutes together to decide on our order, as well as provide the Chef an opportunity to make her way out.
NOTE: They do have kid-friendly fare, such as burgers and pizza and grilled chicken. Just in case your littles are picky-eaters.
Meeting Chef Amy
Before long, Chef Amy came to the table to introduce herself and to discuss food allergy options. She went through the menu and showed Logan and me what was safe and what likely wouldn’t be. She also took opportunity to discuss how some of the options are not made in their kitchen, so it would be difficult to accurately assess whether or not they could be considered safe. Logan had tons of questions regarding the bread service, including if and how it could be safe for him with his egg, peanut and tree nut allergies. Chef Amy went through the list of breads and accompaniments, as well as which ones he could and could not have. She also shared how she would have them delivered / served if we decided we were comfortable with him enjoying this.

He really wanted to try this and we felt comfortable enough with the information Chef Amy had presented. So, we agreed to let him have the traditional naan bread, served on a separate plate, and he would get first dibs of any sauces ~ all of which were deemed safe ~ before any of the rest of us had a chance to dive in.
With regard to the main entree, Logan was very interested in the Potjie Inspired entree. Chef Amy went through what elements he could have with that option and how she would have it served safely. Ultimately, our little guy was pretty happy because the selections he wanted were safe choices.
FOOD ALLERGY NOTE:
Please remember that I am in no way a medical professional. I am simply a mom doing what she can to provide her son with the best possible food allergy experiences and options. Each family or individual with food allergies has to make their own well informed decision as to whether or not something is safe enough for them to consume. I do personally always recommend having two epinephrine auto-injectors nearby and to speak to chefs directly.
Checking out the surroundings
Once our final order was placed, we took some time to study and discuss the interior of the restaurant. As noted above, it is meant to evoke the feel of being in a spice market, but you also get the feeling of being in the middle of a forest of “trees.” The pillars in the center of the room are designed to look just like trees, as well as some like tall towers of what appear to be African drums. The “tree canopies” span the width of the ceiling and “cover” you as you dine ~ almost like a big earthy hug.

African art work of both woven and wooden pieces is also on display throughout the dining room. It’s always fun to read up on these pieces.
With regard to seating, this is varied. There are both wooden tables in the center and along the window edges, as well as cozy booths that comfortably fit families our size and larger.

The Savanna` Look! We have company!
One of the BIGGEST draws for this restaurant is its exotic view while dining. Guests seated all over the restaurant (some better than others) can watch gazelles, giraffes, wildebeests, zebras, crowned cranes and more roam the savanna that lies on just the other side of the glass. Though our family was quite a bit away from the windows, we were still able to see some of the animals roaming nearby. It truly is an amazing experience to have while dining there.

DID YOU KNOW?: For those who like to create unique memories, there is a special dining event offered, called Dine With an Animal Specialist. Guests who choose and reserve this option by phone will enjoy a four course meal while learning fun and important facts from a Disney Animal Specialist. I would LOVE to try this out in the future!
Bread Service arrives!
So, yes – we did order the bread service and we ordered it so that we could enjoy all nine of the condiments. The three kinds of bread we received were served on two different platters ~ one that was marked “allergy” and safe for Logan and the other not marked at all. The sauces were also delivered with care on a platter marked “allergy.” After their intensity was explained, Logan went ahead and took his portions first so that we all avoided cross contamination.
So what breads do they offer?
The five Indian style breads Guests can munch on included (we only had three of the five):
- Traditional Naan
- Garlic-Ginger Naan
- Spiced Naan
- Onion Kulcha
- Paneer Paratha
The traditional naan was what was served separately because that was the one Logan was able to eat. He took his portion first and then the rest of us split everything else.

And what about those NINE condiments???
We had to try all of them ~ ranging from extremely spicy to very benign. The list included:
- Red Chile Sambal (extremely spicy)
- Spicy Jalapeno-Lime Pickle
- Coriander Chutney,
- Garlic Pickle
- Red Pepper Hummus
- Tomato-Date Jam
- Tamarind Chutney
- Mango Chutney
- Cucumber Raita (very mild)

Hubby, the oldest and the youngest LOVE the spicy flavors, so they were all about trying that Spicy Jalapeño-Lime Pickle and Red Chile Sambal. Both Aaryn and I tried the hottest offering, as well, but I know that I at least regretted it. It’s just not for me. Aaryn appeared to be okay with the Spicy Jalapeño-Lime Pickle, but admits that it wasn’t his favorite. I was more of a Cucumber Raita or even a Red Pepper Hummus fan, but my favorite on the platter was the Coriander Chutney. The Garlic Pickle was very potent and the Tamarind Chutney had a tart flavor to it. The Mango Chutney was good and had chunks of delicious mango pieces in it. The oldest enjoyed that one, as well.
All in all, it was a GREAT way to start the meal – and a little filling, to be honest. I mean, just a little bit (as we all moved our belt buckles one notch)….
Lunch is Served
Despite being nearly satiated by the bread service, we were pretty eager to dive into our main course. We all chose to go with the Potjie Inspired entrée, which allowed each of us to choose something from the protein list and another from the carb list. Since there were four proteins listed, we each chose one. On the carb list, there were five options, so we left one out (Lentil Dhal ~ apparently, a lot of people do).
The Journey options included:
- Goan Seafood Curry
- Butter Chicken
- Braised Beef
- Spicy Durban Shrimp.
while the Harvest options included:
- Aloo Masala
- Chickpea Wit
- Lentil Dhal (the one we chose to leave out).
- Paneer Tikka
- Cilantro-Coconut Vegetables


I will say this – the Spicy Durban Shrimp ~ Oh, My Goodness! That had a kick to it that, yes, came with a warning, but I did not expect. Wowzers! Of course, my spice lovers thought it was great. However, I think the four of us all really liked the Butter Chicken the most. It just had that right flavor and texture to it. Of course, some of the boys really enjoyed the braised beef, too.


In fact, the Braised Beef is what Logan had with his allergy-safe meal, as well as the Chickpea Wit. He was so full on the bread service, though, that he wasn’t able to finish. He did enjoy it, though. Great choices!
Savanna
Aside from the absolutely flavorful foods served here, Sanaa boasts one of the most unique dining views and entertainment around the Walt Disney World Resort. While enjoying the bread service, savoring the Tandoori chicken or sipping on an African Starr Mojito, Guests can peer out the window to enjoy exotic animals freely roaming around the savanna. It’s a sight to see when an ostrich struts by or two zebras start playing together.
We were sadly on the other side of the restaurant, so pictures of the savanna during lunch did not happen, but we had quite a few opportunities over the course of our trip to enjoy the animals (did you see my Facebook LIVE or the follow up??).
Satiated and Satisfied
So, it was another win-win for this Disney-loving family! We thoroughly enjoyed the highly recommended bread service (maybe a little too much), devoured our entrées with gusto and, most importantly, experienced no allergic reactions. In our book, that is a pixie-dusted success! Now to walk it all off at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!
If you’re looking for something unique with a lot of flavor and spice, add Sanaa to your Disney Foodie Bucket List. Even if you are not staying at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the bread service alone is worth the trip over. Now, if you have been to Sanaa, I’d LOVE to hear what you had or what you enjoyed the most. Please feel free to add your comment below!!
BONUS INFO x2!!!!
- Sanaa does offer a no-reservation-required breakfast from 7 AM to 10 AM. I believe this was in response to the lack of quick service dining at the Kidani Village location (the resort quick service is located at Jambo House). While the boys and I roamed another park on our last morning, Hubby stayed behind to pack things up and decided to enjoy breakfast here. He was all about that Tomato Chutney!!
- Sanaa does provide discounts to DVC members, Annual Passholders and Tables in Wonderland holders (at least for lunch and dinner. We did not check for breakfast).
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I love this place – currently my favorite restaurant at Disney (that could always change though!). When we last went we ordered the bread service and three of the meals for the four of us to share and STILL had too much food. We decided next trip we’d order two of the Potjie and bread only!
That sounds like a perfect plan!! Lol ~ that bread service!! Yum!
Tina, Once again great post and review. I’m telling you I just said this morning I think we need to run up to Disney just to try all the food! This sounds absolutely Amazing.
And once again you leave me blushing with gratitude!! Thanks for the read and sweet words, Nikki! You’re becoming a virtual Disney Foodie – lol!! I can’t wait to hear your thoughts when you try these things yourself!! 😉
I am a huge fan of naan and chutney – looks so cool.
It was and – YES – such a great combination 😉.
I need a trip to Disney!!!!! Now!!!
LOL ~ I’m glad the post had that effect on you, Rachel. You are not going to get any arguments from me. This is a happy place for many.
Lots of yummy food! Bucket list it is! Knowing that it could be allergy friendly food offered here, so it is worth to try, right?
Absolutely!!! I love the fact that our son was able to enjoy the bread service. It was limited with regard to the breads, but he was able to enjoy every single one of the nine condiments. He also enjoyed a regular meal that was made by the Chef on the premises. Definitely a good one to keep on the bucket list – especially if you have dietary restrictions. 😉
Sounds like a great getaway! We love Animal Kingdom and may have to try this place next time!
It’s my husband’s favorite place to stay when we visit (and Disney’s Animal Kingdom is his favorite park), but our first time at Sanaa. I think we’ll be going back, though. Definitely keep it on your bucket list!
This looks so fun! The food looks so amazing!
And I don’t think the pictures do it justice! It was delicious and sooo full of flavor. Honestly ~ the spices…so authentic.
Sounds like a memorable place to enjoy an interesting and unique meal…and watch the wildlife outside the windows, too!
Watching the wildlife is such a fun twist to the dinner option there. Definitely lends itself to a few unique memories.
This place looks awesome! Pinning for later 🙂
Fabulous!!! Thanks for the pin. I hope you have the opportunity to enjoy this place in the future and like it as much as we did.
What an interesting treat! I love that there are authentic flavors and that they accommodate allergies! I also love the look of the decor, and truly…the bread service is calling my name!
LOL!! It calls out to us all, Jennifer! Yes – definitely love the authenticity of the foods Disney provides in its restaurants. It just makes going out to eat or vacationing here that much more interesting and memorable.
This looks amazing! I will file this away for our next trip.
Perfect! Sounds like a plan. I hope you enjoy it as much as we did.
Three years ago we had the privilege to go WDW and had a blast! However, we didn’t go to the Animal Kingdom. I’m so excited to go back soon and Animal Kingdom is on the list.
Oh, that’s awesome, Naomi!!! Gosh – even in three years there have been many changes to Disney’s Animal Kingdom (well, to be honest – all over the WDW Resort!). Now, Sanaa is a restaurant located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom LODGE, not the PARK. I just wanted to make sure that was clear. The LODGE is not too far from the PARK, so definitely feasible to get there if you made rezzies at the restaurant. Let me know if you try it out!
Great review! Definitely makes me want to visit!
Sweet! I’m glad it had that effect on you 😉.
Wow, I love experiencing different foods! Looks awesome!
We are right there with you! It was awesome and we would recommend it to anyone who had an adventurous palate.
It looks so good! I love that you can mix and match.
It was a lot of fun for us because we love to try new tastes and, this way, we all had the opportunity to order something different and try a little of each other’s choices. Very delicious, but the buttered chicken was definitely our favorite.
I’ve only been to Disney once, like ten years ago. So as my toddler is getting older and getting more into the disney movies, it makes me so excited that we can soon plan a vacation to Disney! I loved this post and it will definitely be on our list of places to visit! It looks so yummy!
Aww – thanks, Eileen! I bet that excitement builds every time you read or see something about Disney, too! Here’s hoping your trip comes faster than you could imagine and creates magical memories that never fade away!
Wow, I’d love to go experience it for the view alone!
Love the food and the atmosphere! Definitely need to try this restaurant. Love how they came out to talk about your son’s allergies to make sure you guys had everything prepared as needed. Just amazing service!
Just makes the entire experience that much better to have that kind of service. Definitely recommend keeping this on your Disney foodie bucket list 😉 Thanks for the read, Kristi!!!
Dinner with an animal specialist sounds like such a great experience. It doesn’t hurt that the food looks so good, too. Adding this restaurant to my list for our next Disney trip.
Awesome!! I’m glad it inspired you to add something new to your Disney bucket list!!! I hope you enjoy this as much as we did – and, oh, my goodness ~ I would LOVE to book this meal with an animal specialist! Doesn’t it sound amazing??
Such a great review! I haven’t been to Disney in years but I would love to go back! If I do, this place is at the top of my list.
Thanks, Kari!!! I appreciate the kind words!! I’m glad to hear it intrigued you enough to add to your Disney foodie bucket list. 😊👍🏻
this looks like a great place to eat! I havent been to Disney in over 20 years so it’s all new to me!
Ah – well, then I can imagine the sizable Disney bucket list you have for yourself – lol. Sanaa was a very unique place to eat! I’d keep it in mind.
I love this post! I haven’t been to Disney since I was little and this is seriously making me consider convincing the boyfriend to take me 🙂
Aww – thanks, Julie ~ and I think you two would have so much fun together!! Here’s wishing you the best in trying to convince him 😉.
The food at this restaurant looks amazing! I can’t wait till one day I get to visit Disney I can eat at places like this.
This is one of those unique places to definitely keep on that Disney foodie bucket list. The bread service is amazing!!! Glad you liked what you say!! Hope you get to visit Walt Disney World soon!!!