Jiko - The Cooking Place

Reviews

• PR

  Patricia Rogers

  2 days ago
  5.0
  I added this restaurant last minute about two days before my reservation and I’m so thrilled I did because it completely blew me away. I knew going in that Jiko was considered one of the more upscale restaurants at Animal Kingdom Lodge, and now I understand why. The food was impeccable from start to finish. The giraffe bread service was incredible, the scallop and pork belly appetizer was outstanding, and I’m so glad I chose the seafood entrée. They rotate the fish selection and tonight it was halibut, which happens to be one of my favorites. The dish was cooked perfectly and honestly I couldn’t have asked for a better meal. What also stood out was the service. From the moment I checked in to the wait staff throughout the evening, everyone was an absolute joy to interact with. My waiter in particular was incredibly attentive without being overbearing and really made the whole experience feel relaxed and special. I enjoyed it so much that I actually decided to cancel my reservation at Boma tomorrow. Buffets just really are not my thing, and instead I made another reservation for Jiko so I can go back and try the filet mignon. Definitely worth going back twice. Definitely worth every penny. Much more my speed while on vacation.
• SB

  Sarah Brooks

  2 days ago
  4.0
  We had a lovely dinner at Jiko. Our food was a delicious, well balanced, Americanized version of African inspired dishes. If you're you're looking for something more interesting than your typical steak and potatoes, but want to keep it a bit more casual than some of the more upscale dining experiences on Disney property, then Jiko is an excellent choice!
• TK

  Teachr Kimmy

  5 days ago
  5.0
  I always thought that Boma was THE place to dine while visiting the Animal Kingdom Lodge. That is, until I finally experienced Jiko. It's sumptuous dining selections are only outdone by its extensive wine menu, which ,by the way, is the largest grouping of wines outside of Africa itself. Not necessarily for the meat-and-potatoes crowd, it is truly an experience one is not likely to forget. If the menu doesn't whet your appetite, the decor and ambitious will. Offering first-class service and dining options, I dare you to try this truly unique restaurant at least once. I, for one, cannot wait to go back!
• LY

  Lee Yzquierdo

  Apr 26, 2026
  5.0
  What a dining experience! Everything was phenomenal. Listen to the wine pairings, it really enhances the flavors. Neurodivergent /migraine heads up: Lighting is very low. It was very pleasant. Noise level was moderate, I used my loop engage and was fine. Strong smells of cooking spices and wood burning. The spoons are large and shovel shaped (see photo) Cilantro heads up: Cilantro was not listed as a separate ingredient on the menu. Be sure you me too. It to your server at the start of the meal.
• PR

  Pam Devendorf, Realtor

  Apr 25, 2026
  5.0
  After arriving in Orlando and checking into Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge after a long day of travel, we were hungry and didn’t have dinner reservations. Luckily we were able to snag a 5:30 PM table at Jiko, the African-inspired restaurant located on the lower level of the lodge. The ambiance carries the same beautiful Animal Kingdom Lodge African theme with soft earthy tones and clean metal accents. We were seated at a fantastic table overlooking lush foliage and a serene koi pond. Our server, Michael, welcomed us with warm towels and walked us through the evening’s specials. The food was outstanding—true fine dining—from the diver scallop with pork belly to the blackened halibut, and for the first time, we tried seared venison loin…absolutely incredible. We couldn’t resist dessert and ordered the Malva pudding, and were also treated to four complimentary friandises—little sugared jelly squares that were unusual but surprisingly addictive (we ate every one!). Expect to spend around $100 per person, but it is absolutely worth it for the service, ambiance, views, and unforgettable food.BTW, they do get super busy, I highly recommend reservations!

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