Jiko - The Cooking Place

Reviews

• GB

  Giovanni Robert Bedolla

  Jan 6, 2026
  1.0
  Complete waste of organic matter to put in my stomach, zero seasoning. Was cooked for someone in 1300 AD Europe with the lack of not just seasoning but flavor,
• W2

  West Coast cuts 2

  Jan 6, 2026
  1.0
  We had 7:20pm reservations and were seated promptly. Our server was excellent, friendly and helpful with recommendations. However, the experience went downhill from there. We waited an hour and 15 minutes for our entrees. While the spiced carrot soup was a hit, the rest of our meals (Oak Grilled Filet, Moroccan Lamb, and seasonal fish) were surprisingly flavorless and arrived lukewarm. We were too hungry to send them back, but for the price and the wait, the quality was disappointing. Great service, but the kitchen missed the mark.
• CG

  Christian G

  Dec 22, 2025
  4.0
  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.
• RL

  Russell Ledford

  Dec 21, 2025
  5.0
  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!
• KD

  Kate Diamond

  Dec 9, 2025
  2.0
  This was our second time dining at Jiko. We visited last year around the same time and had an absolutely wonderful experience. My husband and two children have allergies, and I have sensitivities, so we always disclose this right away. Last year, the chef came out, was incredibly kind, and truly went above and beyond to accommodate us. Because of that experience, we expected the same level of care this time. Unfortunately, that was not the case. When we informed our server about the allergies, she asked if we’d like the chef to come out. We said yes, based on last year’s experience. The chef who came out this time—a female chef—seemed visibly annoyed from the moment she approached our table. She was short, curt, and did not seem interested in helping us navigate the menu. Her responses were dismissive: “Nope, we soak it all in a canola/olive oil blend,” and “Nope, you can’t have that either.” It felt like she wasn’t willing to offer alternatives or work with us at all. We eventually had to ask, “Okay, what CAN we have?” Her answer was simply the steak or the fish, both of which she’d need to make fresh—again, with clear annoyance. She told us the only side option we could have was broccolini. We were completely understanding of limitations, but taken aback by the attitude, especially since last year’s chef handled our restrictions with kindness, creativity, and respect. We dine often at higher-end Disney restaurants, and places like California Grill have always been extremely accommodating. Given that canola oil is a common allergen and highly inflammatory, we were surprised that a signature restaurant didn’t offer more flexibility or at least a more gracious approach. The food itself was the most disappointing we’ve ever had at Disney. My husband said the steak was “okay,” but it wasn’t even seasoned with salt or pepper. My fish had no seasoning at all—not even a lemon, which I ended up having to request just to add some flavor. I cook three meals a day for my family, so I know it’s absolutely possible to prepare delicious dishes without using common allergens or cheap inflammatory oils. What made the experience truly unfortunate wasn’t the limitations—it was the chef’s demeanor. It felt unwelcoming and rude, and it left us feeling like an inconvenience. Last year’s chef prepared incredible dishes for us and treated us with kindness; that level of service was completely absent this time. Sadly, we won’t return to Jiko unless the previous chef is back. At these prices, guests deserve thoughtful service and a willingness to accommodate allergies with respect—not frustration.

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