Hey, it’s Wes and Chanda, and welcome to DinkLife! Today, we find ourselves at the enchanting Disneyland in Anaheim, California, specifically at the Disneyland Hotel. Our destination? Trader Sam’s Tiki Bar, a spot we’ve frequented in Orlando but never in California. We stumbled upon the Orlando gem just three years ago and fell head over heels, prompting our pilgrimage to the West Coast outpost.
Unlike Disney World, Trader Sam’s in Disneyland takes reservations, a feature we discovered too late to secure a spot. Undeterred, we decided to try our luck with a walk-in. It’s 4:27 on a Wednesday afternoon in February, and after putting our names down, we’re told it might be an hour, maybe an hour and 15 minutes. Determined to experience the magic, we explore the Disneyland Hotel and Downtown Disney while eagerly awaiting our turn.
One unique aspect here is the text notification system; they give you a 10-minute heads up to return. As we wander, we uncover interesting bits like a play area with the iconic Disneyland sign, and some cool Disney history displays. Finally, our moment arrives at 5:22, and after an hour of anticipation, we’re welcomed back to Trader Sam’s.
Seated at the bar, we discover the special stool that mysteriously lowers, adding an unexpected element of amusement to our experience. The menu boasts exclusive drinks and a diverse food selection. We opt for the Pu Pu Platter, an array of fried string beans, wings, macaroni salad, and pork dumplings. The food turns out to be a delightful surprise, complemented by unique dipping sauces.
With our thirst quenched and hunger satisfied, we reflect on the differences between the California and Florida Trader Sam’s. The California edition offers distinct tiki mugs, exclusive drinks, and a smaller but more expansive bar area. The shipwreck skit with a pepper ghost effect stands out as a highlight unique to Disneyland. We leave with a tip from a local friend: visit during park fireworks for a potentially less crowded experience.
In conclusion, Trader Sam’s in both coasts is a must-try for tiki enthusiasts. Don’t let the lack of reservations deter you; the walk-in experience can be just as rewarding. So, whether you find yourself in Disneyland or Disney World, embrace the spirit of adventure, sip on unique concoctions, and make memories at Trader Sam’s! Cheers to DinkLife!
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