Archive for October 14th, 2009
A Work of Art
In Kidani Village at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, the new Sanaa is spicing up Disney restaurant fare with hints of India.
From the Swahili word meaning “work of art” Sanaa carries the theme throughout the restaurant, beginning with the stylized acacia trees which spread their branches and leaves over the ceiling. The acacia leaf is often used as a base to display artworks in Africa. Glowing wall niches showcase African handworks and the room is filled with colorful details and unique lighting fixtures that reflect both African and Indian influences.
The beautiful arched windows that grace many areas of the resort have found their way into this lovely space, bringing the savannah, which is on the same level, right into the room.
Perhaps not as spicy as might be expected but with more of a zing than some American palates may be used to, the menu features curries made with traditional spice blends that include cardamom, chilies, cinnamon, cloves, saffron, coriander, nutmeg, fennel seed, cumin, tamarind, and turmeric. There are selections from the restaurant’s two tandoor ovens, Indian-style breads, and the ubiquitous sustainable fish. Guests can select a trio from five interesting salads, there is a vegetarian option, and several American favorites including steak and pork chops. Specialty cocktails, as well as some interesting wines and beers from Africa and India, are available from the bar.
Dinner service opens with African entertainment and an attractive lounge adjacent to the dining area seats 24 guests.
Review: Indian food is not high on my list of favorites, so I was surprised and delighted when lunch at Sanaa turned out to be the best and most interesting meal I had during a recent visit to Walt Disney World.
Although periodically slow, my server was cheerful and friendly and I could see that every table seemed to be receiving the same helpful and enthusiastic, if somewhat sporadic, service.
Not wanting heavy meat for lunch, I opted for – yes kids – the oft-maligned (at least by me) sustainable fish! It was truly outstanding, served with crisp vegetables in a lightly curried broth. I could eat this three times a week; it was that good. Three unusual salads were a pleasant change from the usual lettuce, and an excellent and beautifully-presented dessert was the perfect ending to a wonderful meal.
While there are still some service kinks to be worked out, this is a great choice for a memorable meal; well worth the travel time for those staying at a different location. Kidani Village is a charming resort, peaceful and inviting with a spectacular savannah.
Menus
Sanaa
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Dinner 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
