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✔️Lunch ✔️Dinner ✔️Dine in
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Eatery in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge for South African cuisine presented in a dramatic setting.
Address and Contact Information
Address: 2901 Osceola Pkwy, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
Phone: (407) 939-5277
Menu Photos
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Jiko-The Cooking Place | Lake Buena Vista, FL | 31167 – Visit Orlando
Signature restaurant featuring African cuisine and South African wines in a stylish ambience.
Jiko-The Cooking Place | Lake Buena Vista, FL | 17035
Jiko-The Cooking Place. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, 2901 Osceola Parkway Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830 … Get the latest news and industry developments from …
Reviews
The Crafty Eater
I’ve really been looking forward to Chico‘s four years as the reviews were phenomenal and it’s one of those places that has always recommended for anyone visiting Disney who likes to experience food. That being said, I was a little disappointed in the quality and flavor profile of the food. I couldn’t greatly differentiate it in terms of quality from something like Boma‘s or what you would get in Park. And comparing it to another similarly styled African ask restaurant Tiffins far outpaces Chico’s in quality of product. The flavors were fine at best. I am a lover of Ethiopian food and Endura and I did feel like the Enjera that was here was a bit of a strange presentation overall and really lacking in anything deep in flavor. Now I will say the presentation was absolutely gorgeous. This place has impeccable presentation. Our waiter was a bit distracted because one of the tables was his friend but honestly, we all have off night so I’m not going to hold it against him. I don’t know that the value proposition here is being met. I do think the prices are a bit inflated even by Disney standards because of the reputation that Chico has which I think is a bit over inflated. If you want South Africa, African style food or African food food that is high-quality with very similar similar presentation then you have to go to Tiffin‘s. Tiffins is one of the best restaurants on Walt Disney World property.
… moreFG
We had such an amazing experience at Jiko. The food was absolutely phenomenal, we really enjoyed the fillet mignon and the Halibut, both pictured below. As a starter we got the scallop and pork belly, which while a small portion, packed alot of flavour.
Overall, the food was extremely filling and we couldn’t fault it.
Service was impeccable and all the staff we interacted with were lovely and very attentive to what we needed
I would highly recommend this place as one to visit.
… moreOverall, the food was extremely filling and we couldn’t fault it.
Service was impeccable and all the staff we interacted with were lovely and very attentive to what we needed
I would highly recommend this place as one to visit.
shelby
My husband and I have tried all the restaurants at animal kingdom lodge and this is hands down the best one. Upscale and quiet, a beautiful dining room. The bread service was delicious. I tried the filet and my husband tried the lamb shanks and ate everything. The chocolate mousse dessert at the end was also delicious
… moreChristian G
This place has great ambience and great service. It is beautifully decorated and very spacious and clean. As for the food, I wouldn’t recommend this establishment for children. The menu is definitely for the more mature palette. The food was okay but the price point is pretty high so our expectation was for the food to be great. We did have the best server who took care of us and provided us with whatever we needed. I do recommend this place for desserts and adult entertainment.
… morelindsay
Cannot recommend this place enough. We had an amazing experience. It started when our hostess gave us a small tour of the restaurant explaining that they had the largest selection of South African wines outside of South Africa explained why it’s called the cooking place as well as a few other fun details before bringing us to our seats.
Our waiter was very tentative and kind. The giraffe bread – as they call it was amazing and was served with a delicious flavorful butter. We ordered the tenderloin for an appetizer and it was to die for. It was nit gamey at all and wonderful flavor, I wish I would have just ordered this at for my entrée!!
The wine selection was amazing, highly recommend trying some of their South African wines, even if you’re not a wine person.
For entrées, we had the Moroccan spiced lamb shank and the Injera Basket. The lamb shank was huge and fell apart with a fork wonderful flavor and was served with a crunchy couscous and pomegranate seeds. The plant based Injera basket was wonderful and it was nice to mix and match the different toppings to combine flavors.
I was in a party of 2, both of us moderate eaters and with the bread appetizer and two entrées. We had plenty to bring back to our hotel room and eat for dinner the next day. we even had a few leftovers after our “leftover” dinner to have as a snack.
I highly recommend if you have the budget to check this place out. However, I wouldn’t recommend bringing kids/small children here as the food choices gear more towards a refined pallet. The restaurant is also very quiet.
… moreOur waiter was very tentative and kind. The giraffe bread – as they call it was amazing and was served with a delicious flavorful butter. We ordered the tenderloin for an appetizer and it was to die for. It was nit gamey at all and wonderful flavor, I wish I would have just ordered this at for my entrée!!
The wine selection was amazing, highly recommend trying some of their South African wines, even if you’re not a wine person.
For entrées, we had the Moroccan spiced lamb shank and the Injera Basket. The lamb shank was huge and fell apart with a fork wonderful flavor and was served with a crunchy couscous and pomegranate seeds. The plant based Injera basket was wonderful and it was nice to mix and match the different toppings to combine flavors.
I was in a party of 2, both of us moderate eaters and with the bread appetizer and two entrées. We had plenty to bring back to our hotel room and eat for dinner the next day. we even had a few leftovers after our “leftover” dinner to have as a snack.
I highly recommend if you have the budget to check this place out. However, I wouldn’t recommend bringing kids/small children here as the food choices gear more towards a refined pallet. The restaurant is also very quiet.
Russell Ledford
An Absolute Masterclass in Flavor and Hospitality!!
“From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for something special. The atmosphere at Jiko is warm and sophisticated, but it’s the food and service that truly steal the show.
The menu is a beautiful exploration of African flavors—the Oak-grilled Filet Mignon was cooked to perfection, and the mac and cheese lived up to the legendary hype. Every bite was layered with spices and care.
A huge thank you to our server, who was incredibly knowledgeable about the extensive South African wine list and made us feel like the only table in the room. If you’re looking for a dining experience that is both adventurous and comforting, Jiko is a must-visit!”
Best Meal of Our Trip!
“Jiko exceeded every expectation! The food is elevated, unique, and incredibly delicious (get the Wild Boar Tenderloin!). But what really sets this place apart is the service. The staff is attentive, friendly, and deeply passionate about the menu. It’s not just a dinner; it’s an experience. We can’t wait to come back!”
Option 3: Focus on the Atmosphere & Wine
Title: A Hidden Gem for Foodies
“If you want a break from the standard theme park fare, Jiko is the place to go. The open kitchen and changing ‘sunset’ lighting create such a beautiful vibe. The service was impeccable—our server gave us the perfect wine pairing suggestions that elevated the entire meal. High-quality ingredients, bold flavors, and top-tier service. 10/10!
… more“From the moment we walked in, we knew we were in for something special. The atmosphere at Jiko is warm and sophisticated, but it’s the food and service that truly steal the show.
The menu is a beautiful exploration of African flavors—the Oak-grilled Filet Mignon was cooked to perfection, and the mac and cheese lived up to the legendary hype. Every bite was layered with spices and care.
A huge thank you to our server, who was incredibly knowledgeable about the extensive South African wine list and made us feel like the only table in the room. If you’re looking for a dining experience that is both adventurous and comforting, Jiko is a must-visit!”
Best Meal of Our Trip!
“Jiko exceeded every expectation! The food is elevated, unique, and incredibly delicious (get the Wild Boar Tenderloin!). But what really sets this place apart is the service. The staff is attentive, friendly, and deeply passionate about the menu. It’s not just a dinner; it’s an experience. We can’t wait to come back!”
Option 3: Focus on the Atmosphere & Wine
Title: A Hidden Gem for Foodies
“If you want a break from the standard theme park fare, Jiko is the place to go. The open kitchen and changing ‘sunset’ lighting create such a beautiful vibe. The service was impeccable—our server gave us the perfect wine pairing suggestions that elevated the entire meal. High-quality ingredients, bold flavors, and top-tier service. 10/10!
Paul Chew
Our server, Brenda, was friendly and attentive. She knew the menu well and made helpful suggestions. The food not only tasted good, it was delectably presented. We had the spiced carrot soup which had a surprising depth of flavor, garnished with pine nuts and African spices. Also we had their lovely Jiko salad. The short rib was tender. The tagine seafood dish was generous. Dessert was a towering kava pudding with a sculpted chocolate topping, a small scoop of ice cream, over a shredded wheat confection on a base of cake that had been soaked in a rum-like liqueur. A delightful evening. Although an upscale venue, that recommends chic casual many if not most diners were very informally dressed in clothes they had worn in the the park. Don’t miss a walk out the back of the hotel to see the African animal compound in a savanna like environment. Free parking in the self parking lot, a rarity in Disney World.
Jiko is on level one so you need to go downstairs from the grand lobby. There are stairs and elevator on the right as you walk in to the hotel, beyond the gift shop.
… moreJiko is on level one so you need to go downstairs from the grand lobby. There are stairs and elevator on the right as you walk in to the hotel, beyond the gift shop.
James Simon
Excellent decor with a view of a shallow pond. My wife had the halibut with mushrooms. I just had the small appetizers. The boar tenderloin was superb. Then I had the Mac and Cheese with Waygu ground beef and chopped toasted almonds as an add on to my wife’s meal. This was the best and very filling.
… moreTiffany Zeigler
Absolutely incredible dinner. Dawn was over the top amazing as a waitress! Dinner date without the kids while traveling…we will be back!
… moreDr. Samah
Jiko – The Cooking Place Review
I had an unforgettable dining experience at Jiko. From the moment we sat down, everything felt warm, elegant, and thoughtfully curated. The atmosphere is cozy with soft lighting, beautiful décor, and an upscale yet comfortable vibe that makes the entire evening feel special.
✨ Food:
Every dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor.
• The braised beef short rib was incredibly tender with a rich glaze and perfectly balanced spices. The vegetable ribbons on top added a fresh, delicate touch, and the chickpea stew underneath was hearty and delicious.
• The grilled beef with chimichurri, roasted tomato, and mushrooms was another standout—flavorful, juicy, and plated like fine dining art.
• The salad was vibrant and refreshing with colorful tomatoes, shaved vegetables, and light pickling that added the perfect tang.
• The bread service was amazing—warm, freshly baked, with a crunchy top and soft center. Honestly, one of the highlights!
• The signature juice blend was refreshing, fruity, and beautifully layered.
Presentation:
Every single plate looked like a piece of art. You can tell the chefs put love, effort, and high skill into the details. The textures, colors, and plating were simply stunning.
Service:
The staff were warm, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They offered great recommendations and checked on us at the perfect times without being intrusive.
Overall:
Jiko is a beautiful experience. It’s more than just food—it’s flavor, culture, presentation, and hospitality all in one. Highly recommended for a special night out, celebrations, or anyone who appreciates unique cuisine and fine dining.
I will definitely be coming back!
… moreI had an unforgettable dining experience at Jiko. From the moment we sat down, everything felt warm, elegant, and thoughtfully curated. The atmosphere is cozy with soft lighting, beautiful décor, and an upscale yet comfortable vibe that makes the entire evening feel special.
✨ Food:
Every dish was beautifully presented and full of flavor.
• The braised beef short rib was incredibly tender with a rich glaze and perfectly balanced spices. The vegetable ribbons on top added a fresh, delicate touch, and the chickpea stew underneath was hearty and delicious.
• The grilled beef with chimichurri, roasted tomato, and mushrooms was another standout—flavorful, juicy, and plated like fine dining art.
• The salad was vibrant and refreshing with colorful tomatoes, shaved vegetables, and light pickling that added the perfect tang.
• The bread service was amazing—warm, freshly baked, with a crunchy top and soft center. Honestly, one of the highlights!
• The signature juice blend was refreshing, fruity, and beautifully layered.
Presentation:
Every single plate looked like a piece of art. You can tell the chefs put love, effort, and high skill into the details. The textures, colors, and plating were simply stunning.
Service:
The staff were warm, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They offered great recommendations and checked on us at the perfect times without being intrusive.
Overall:
Jiko is a beautiful experience. It’s more than just food—it’s flavor, culture, presentation, and hospitality all in one. Highly recommended for a special night out, celebrations, or anyone who appreciates unique cuisine and fine dining.
I will definitely be coming back!