Written by: Traci Elswick, Agency Owner
For years I’ve been waiting for ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to return to its pre-COVID glory, and I think it’s finally about as close as it’s going to get.
After the reopening, I tried it several times and honestly left pretty disappointed each time. I never understood why they changed the menu so drastically after COVID. The chicken was not great, the shrimp tasted completely different, and overall it just wasn’t the same experience many of us loved for years.
But recently, things feel like they’re turning a corner.
While it’s still missing some of the old magic—like the dancing, games for the kids, and some of the high-energy atmosphere—the restaurant does have a nice island vibe again. During dinner there was a musician playing the ukulele, which really helped bring back that relaxing Polynesian feel.
The meat is still not served on the skewers at the table like it used to be, which I definitely miss, but the good news is that it is being cooked again over the open fire, and that makes a big difference in flavor.
The sides and dessert were absolutely delicious, and the service was excellent.
If you’re visiting Walt Disney World and using the Disney Dining Plan, this is still one of the best ways to maximize a table-service dinner credit, especially for families.
For longtime fans like me, ‘Ohana may not be exactly what it once was—but it’s finally starting to feel like home again.
