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The Polynesian’s Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is Disney Magic for Adults

We all know and love the “Head Salesman” of the Jungle Cruise, but did you know he has his own tiki bar? Don’t worry about getting your head shrunk at this bar, just sit back relax, enjoy a rum drink and relish in this adult-focused Disney Magic at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto! Reminiscent of a South Seas hideaway, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort whisks away guests to a tropical oasis with a selection of exotic cocktails, small plates, and scenic views. 

Where is Trader Sam’s?

Hiding in the back corner of the Polynesian Resort is a trip to a magical island paradise for adults, Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. Above all else, Trader Sam’s is a tiki bar serving, in my opinion, the best drinks on property. But Trader Sam’s is also a fully immersive tropical and comedy experience

Opening at 4 pm daily (occasionally hours change, check the Walt Disney Facebook Page or ask resort staff if hours differ when you visit) there is generally a line stretching from the entrance to Trader Sam’s around the corner, passing the entrance to Captain Cook’s. Don’t worry if you have to wait, just give your name at the host station and you’ll be on the list. Anyone under 21 is allowed in until 8 pm, after that it’s adult only. The inside bar is small, outside on the patio you can get the same drinks and menu, but without the interactive experience, you’ll still feel like you’re in the tropics since you’re in the heart of the Polynesian Resort. I do recommend waiting for an inside table, it’s worth it for the experience. 

The interior of Trader Sam’s is designed to be an immersive and interactive experience. There are windows looking out at the islands and the “active” volcanoes. Take the time to look around and see all of the little details. For those who are familiar with some of the older attractions of Disney you’ll find little-hidden references and fun items on display, I won’t give away any of these surprises, just take it all in and enjoy the attention to detail that they put into this little gem. 

The “windows” at Trader Sam’s

What to Order from Trader Sam’s Menu?

What to Drink, What to Drink?

Since I’ve worked my way around the menu of Trader Sam’s I can say there is something for everyone. Their specialty is rum drinks and that’s pretty much what you’ll find on the menu with a few non-alcoholic selections as well. You will find seasonal drinks around the holidays as well. Most of their drinks are served in special glasses or vessels, which can be purchased for an additional cost. There are 2 drinks on the menu that you’ll want to share, the Nautilus and the Uh- Oa!. There is a selection of beer and wine as well for those who don’t drink rum. 

My favorite drink at Trader Sam’s is the Krakatoa Punch (Sailor Jerry Spiced Rum, Pyrat XO Reserve Rum, Orgeat (Almond), Sam’s Gorilla Grog, and Hibiscus Grenadine). But I’ll be honest having a favorite is hard as there are so many delicious options to choose from on the menu. 

Krakatoa Punch
HippopotoMai-Tai

Food to Soak up the Rum!

Trader Sam’s offers a small menu of appetizers. I’ve tried most of them and have to say my favorites are the Kalua Pork Tacos and the Pan-Fried Dumplings. But again, you can’t really go wrong with these and if you’re making a night of the experience here then try several and share to find your favorite. 

Kalua Pork Tacos

The More You Give the More You Get

One of the best parts about Trader Sam’s is the interaction. The crew is cast well and have fun creating the experience for all the guests. Many of the drinks will have something interactive that the crew does with the guests, again I’m going to leave the surprise up to you. Just enjoy the experience and you’ll catch on quickly. Pay attention to the “windows” as certain drinks are served and remember don’t anger the tiki gods, you’re in a tiki bar after all! 

Disney’s Polynesian has so many dining and entertainment options, be sure to also check out ‘Ohana Best Friends Breakfast and grab a Dole Whip at the Pineapple Lanai

Hi, I’m Julie! My motto is “Adventure is out there and nothing is impossible”. I love all things Disney, from parks to movies, and even runDisney. I’ll be sharing my love and experiences of Disney as well as places out and about in Florida. I hope you enjoy the journey with me! Follow more of my journeys on Instagram

Thank You for Spreading the Pixie Dust!

Kris

Sunday 23rd of February 2020

Any tips on when to get to the Bar so we wouldn't have to wait too terribly long, or is there always a wait? I enjoyed your post. Thanks!

April

Sunday 23rd of February 2020

There is usually a wait but maybe going right when they open at 4 will result in a smaller one. You could also enjoy the same drinks on the deck if atmosphere is not important.

Becky @ Disney in your Day

Sunday 30th of December 2018

My favorite is the Polynesian Pearl. The downside is because that one is a plastic cup you have to purchase the souvenir if you order it. So it ends up being like an $17 drink... and I own way too many plastic pearl cups now!