Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto – Your #1 Place to Have Fun and “Get Your Grog On!”
As we all know, there’s no better place on Earth for themed dining and cocktails than Disney World. When you’re looking for a tropical tiki bar, heading to the Polynesian Resort is a no-brainer. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto captures the romance of the South Seas through unique food and delicious drinks. As they say at the Grog Grotto, you grotto check it out!
Who is Trader Sam?
Diehard Disney fans will recognize the name Trader Sam, and newcomers can get to know him by dropping by the Grog Grotto.
Trader Sam is a well-loved character from the Jungle Cruise attraction; he’s known as the “Head Salesman of the Jungle” due to his status as the owner and operator of Trader Sam’s Gift Shop, making an appearance toward the end of Jungle Cruise.
As the legend goes, decades ago, famed Adventureland explorer Trader Sam was bitten by the bartending bug and hired Skip Dockmonkey, Trader Sam’s former skipper, to help open the Grog Grotto back in the 1950s. Ever since then, Trader Sam’s been searching the world for eclectic ingredients to incorporate into his unique drinks and bountiful bar menu.
What to Expect at the Grog Grotto
This tranquil hideaway is tucked away, creating a relaxing island oasis just steps away from the lavish lobby of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The Grotto is tucked under the lush fronds of swaying palm trees, giving the impression that you’ve stumbled onto a secret getaway undiscovered by anyone but you. It’s the perfect place to stop for an afternoon of fantastical fun or an enchanting evening full of delightful surprises.
The ambiance and your taste for adventure will pull you in, but the refreshing handcrafted cocktails and delicious savory bites will convince you to stay awhile.
You can even order your cocktails in a collectible Disney-exclusive tiki mug! Tiki drink lovers won’t find a better souvenir than that. If you’re an amateur bartender who loves to make tiki drinks at home, a souvenir mug is a great way to imbue your at-home creations with a bit of Disney magic. And everything tastes better when it’s made with magic!
The whimsically themed lounge is filled with decorations inspired by the South Seas. Stop and sip your drink while you take in the atmosphere, or set sail for the open-air Tiki Terrace to enjoy your drink and nourishing nibbles under the starry night sky.
The Drinks Menu
Specialty House Cocktails
While you can certainly order a classic tiki drink at the Grog Grotto, what really makes this place special is the drinks you can’t get anywhere else.
For example, the Polynesian Pearl is made with RumChata, Grand Marnier, and cinnamon blended with tropical juices. But what sets it apart is that it includes a pearl that you can take home with you. It’s an awesome, unique drink that comes with an awesome, unique souvenir!
We also like the Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum – try not to order that without cracking up! It’s rum, cream of coconut, pineapple juice, and orange juice dusted with cinnamon and nutmeg to warm up the island flavors and add a touch of spice.
Or try the Tahitian Torch – passion fruit, ByeJoe Dragon Fire Spirit, tropical juices, and a squeeze of lime juice for a cocktail that’s all refreshing.
But maybe our favorite is the Spikey Pineapple – rum blended with pineapple soft-serve ice cream. It’s like a Dole Whip with an adult kick. Another plus is that it’s an awesome drink you can try here, then replicate at home in a blender when you’re craving a taste of Disney magic from your own kitchen! Some of the best memories are the ones you can taste.
Alcohol-Free Cocktails
Those not drinking will appreciate the level of care and intrigue put into the mocktail menu. And the kiddos will love getting to order their own special drinks just like Mom and Dad!
We like the look of the Skipper Sipper – a sweet blend of tropical juices, organic agave nectar, mint, falernum, and lime juice. The Polynesian Punch is another great option. It’s made with Sam’s signature Gorilla Grog and hibiscus grenadine – yum!
Sometimes All You Need is a Beer
Trader Sam gets that while tiki drinks are a huge crowd-pleaser, sometimes all you really want is to sit back with an ice-cold beer or glass of wine. That’s why he keeps the Grog Grotto well-stocked with a beer and cider collection. They have all the regular favorites, as well as a few fun, finds (like pineapple hard cider) so beer and wine drinkers don’t have to feel left out on all the fun. They also have sparkling, red, and white wines to fit any palate.
Bar Bites
The shareable bar bites are designed to revitalize your body and stimulate your mind with exciting flavors. Selections include pan-fried dumplings, Kalua pork tacos, and Thai chicken flatbread topped with bacon and slathered with peanut sauce.
Or try their chicken lettuce cups with a flavorful hoisin ginger sauce. We love that diners have the option to sub the chicken for tofu, so even the herbivores out there can try out this delicious treat.
Know Before You Go
The whole family is welcome for entry (including the kiddos of all ages) from opening (usually in the afternoon) until 8 pm. But after 8 pm, only guests ages 21 or older can enter. Be sure to plan accordingly! If you want to stop by the Grog Grotto for nighttime drinks, leave the little ones and the teenagers at the hotel.
You’ll also want to make sure to arrive early! This is a popular spot that tends to fill up fast. There might be a wait at the door. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes and bringing a patient attitude. Most people find that it’s worth the wait, but if you come expecting to be able to just stop in and get a prime spot at the bar, you might be disappointed.
Are you a fan of Trader Sam’s tiki drinks? Let us know in the comments!
Cover Image
Photo: HarshLight via Flickr
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