Rainforest Cafe
Published On: Oct 24, 2006Have you ever wanted to dine with gorillas and elephants under the stars? Are you ready for a wild time that's an adventure as well as a meal? For the young and the young at heart, the Rainforest Cafe in the Downtown Disney district of Anaheim offers just the experience that you're looking for.
Located near the Disneyland Hotel and next door to the monorail station, the Rainforest Cafe is a convenient dining option. Though it is not a part of the Disney theme parks, it is close enough to them that taking time out from the parks for a meal there is definitely possible.
And you don't have to worry about not finding the restaurant. It is housed in an unmissable building. Why unmissable? Simply put, there just aren't any other buildings in the area constructed in the style of a Mayan temple.
When you enter and check in to schedule your "safari," you'll know immediately that this dining experience will be pleasantly unusual. Already you will hear the sounds of the jungle broadcast over the audio system, which contributes to the tropical mood.
There is often a wait for seating, but at the Rainforest Cafe there are ways of passing the time. During the day, staff bird trainers show live tropical birds and answer questions from the crowd.
If shopping is more your thing, they have that covered too. In addition to being able to explore the shops of Downtown Disney (depending on how long of a wait you have), the Rainforest Cafe has a large shopping area. Clothing, toys and other souvenirs are available for purchase.
Of course, there is a way to avoid long waits. Reservations can be made up to a full year in advance by calling the restaurant. While certainly not necessary, reservations are definitely recommended - even though there are two floors of indoor seating (as well as an available outdoor dining area).
Once you are seated, you'll understand the reason for the popularity of the restaurant. Large saltwater aquariums are home to a variety of tropical fish. Adding to the atmosphere are dimmed lighting, plenty of greenery, and an indoor waterfall.
All of these are just a backdrop. Animatronic gorillas and elephants are programmed to respond - with movement and sound - to the indoor thunderstorms. Lights flash and thunder rumbles. The kids will be fascinated.
They'll also be thrilled with the variety of the kids' menu with its variety of options. Of course, the adults will also have plenty of items to choose from. Seafood, beef, poultry and pasta items are inspired by Mexican, Caribbean and American cuisine.
A wide variety of appetizers is available, but you may want to skip them - the Rainforest Cafe serves sizeable portions of their entrees. Even the burgers and sandwiches are large.
And, besides, you should try to save some room for their specialty dessert: the Volcano. This towering mountain of brownies and sauces is delivered to your table, complete with lit sparklers that will dazzle and delight - and feed - your entire family.
Though the prices at the Rainforest Cafe range from $12 - $20 for entrees (with kids' menu items priced lower), they are quite reasonable when you consider the enjoyment and lasting memories that the meal provides
Rainforest Cafe
1515 South Disneyland Drive at the Disneyland Resort
Anaheim, CA 92802-2320
(714) 772-0413
Print This Page