Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto

This is a fun bar «hidden» at the Poly. The theme and environment is top notch and definitely worth checking out. This isn’t quite the bar you go to for a few rounds or to catch a game. The drinks are very pricey with our without the souvenir glass and they aren’t super strong. I originally didn’t like this place as it holds only 30 people and usually take a while to get it, but it’s been growing on me.
Each specialty drink ordered comes in a unique themed souvenir glass and has some sort of «show» associated when it’s served. It’s neat and fun to participate as you learn what each drink does.
The bar is dimly list and themed like you’re in a small hut near a volcano, but again it’s more of an attraction as opposed to a bar you spend a few rounds in.
It’s fun to bring first timers here and the servers theme like they’re loony castaways, so it gives them a little bit of freedom to be «sarcastic» and «snippy».

We were SO hyped to visit this spot but were turned away at the door. There was so much empty space so we’re a bit confused as to why we couldn’t get in. But hey… they don’t have to tell us everything, right? No mention from the hostess about the outdoor patio seating, but we saw the signs and sat outside listening to the fabulous uke player and his soulful singing. Loved it! The bar service outside was efficient and the drinks were quite good. Weird vibe inside, but outdoors — fabulous.

We had a blast. Wonderfully themed as only Disney can do it. The drinks may be pricy but it’s the atmosphere you are paying for. We had a nautilus and it was very tasty. We will definitely go again.

I’m a huge fan of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto. I’ve sat both outside at the Tiki Terrace and inside in the Grog Grotto, and although the fresh air is nice, the experience inside is incomparable. It’s small, it’s dark, it’s like going on an adventure someplace else. The atmosphere is fantastic. I love the décor and the «living» volcano pictures that change based on certain drinks that are ordered (be it a storm or an eruption).
There are little shows that go along with certain drink orders, and it’s a lot of fun to see all the action around you. This is the kind of place that is really worth going out of your way to experience. We were luckily staying at the Polynesian, so it was easy for us to mosey on over, but I would visit here even if I was staying at another resort in the future. It’s just too much fun!
I’ve tried the HippopotoMai-​Tai, the Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Tiki Rum, and the Uh-​Oa! and they were all really delicious drinks. The souvenir glasses can be pretty expensive depending on the drink (the one for Uh-​Oa! costs $ 20 on top of the $ 20 cost of the drink – for 2 people or more), but it’s a really cool bowl that could be used for a lot of things. I definitely plan on serving salsa, guac and more in there!

Love it! Definitely great escape from long day at the parks. It will take you on different experience. Made me felt I was in Hawaii. Love all the drink specials. Don’t forget to collect the mugs. Will go back to try the appetizers and some other drinks. Love the live performers. It will be nice if they can put a hula dancer as a little preview show for the Spirit of Aloha in the outside deck. Highly recommended to all adult for time outs.

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS PLACE!
It’s supposed to resemble a dive bar somewhere in the islands. For those who are familiar with Disney Polynesian Resort, it’s located where the arcade used to be. The door only has a small sign on it so you could easily miss it.
Inside you’re immersed into the fantasy world of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto somewhere in the South Pacific. It’s dark! Not a very large venue (well DUH it was a kids arcade so…), a few tables and chairs, and a small bar area. The décor is mismatched wreckage circa 1960 something, and quite fun to look at.
Servers and bartenders are all very friendly and engaging, and watch out for the drinks! They are not shy when it comes to the pours. Yummy and pack a punch. They’re also themed, so don’t freak out if you order something and the room changes color or the volcano erupts, or other assorted craziness ensues. That’s part of the charm. :)
There’s a limited food menu, which is expected. But the limited items are all yummy! My favorites are the dumplings and sushi.
Trader Sam’s has quickly become one of my favorite pre-​or-​post park watering holes. I know I’ll always find an excuse to come back. :)

We got a chance to visit however it was a 2 hour wait. I think maybe it could of been better if I didn’t have a 4 year old but we were going just to experience it. We waited finally got in and it’s so much smaller than I would of thought for Disney. We got told we couldn’t sit at the bar (dur) because of my kid however there was not a single seat available at all. We kneeled down on the floor and my mom went over to order the drinks. I got a virgin drink which the bar tender wasn’t sure why but again I have a 4 year old and my mom got the zombie head. She was not impressed with her drink as she thought it was bitter. I like seeing all the different things they did for the drinks but again I wasn’t impressed. Maybe I would have to try it again but the drinks aren’t really my taste. Overall, I was not impressed and it was expensive

I rarely give 5 stars on Unilocal,but we had an amazing experience here. We arrived around 7pm on a Wednesday evening, and scored a table within a few minutes. Our server, Adam, was outstanding. He was laid back, fun, and friendly. We’ve been to Disneyland’s version three times and loved it. We were surprised to find that the Grog Grotto was a better experience. Very good energy throughout the room.
My wife had the Pearl and I had the Mai-​Tai. Both excellent. And we shared a Nautilus, which was also super tasty. As far as food goes, we had the dumplings which were pretty good, but not the best ever. And the pork tacos, which were actually fantastic.
Such a fun experience, we can’t wait to come back!!!

We finally got a chance to visit Trader Sam’s a few weeks ago and ended up going twice in a week. The drinks are delicious, especially if you are a fan of rum. They do tend to be on the sweeter side, though. But the drinks are not really the main reason for visiting Trader Sam’s. It’s all the silliness and fun that comes *with* the specialty drinks.
We got to experience both the inside and outside areas, and each have their own set of goodness. The outside area offers a gorgeous view of the lake, relaxing live music, and hopefully, great Florida weather. Inside is a whole other world. The cozy (i.e. really small) interior is completely decked with all things tiki. And several of the décor will come to life depending on the drink that has been ordered.
We definitely got a few drinks that would set off the interactive stuff to enjoy witnessing what happens. We weren’t ready for the Nautilus (their most notorious beverage) but got a chance to «dive, dive, dive» as other guests ordered it. It was a lot of fun to see the servers get in character and really into all the cheesiness.
We ordered a few food items as well, but they’re really just A-​OK. They’re not terrible by any means, and would definitely tide you over should you wish to battle the effects the drinks have.
Can’t wait to return and try the Nautilus!

I love the synergy Disney displays, in this case taking Trader Sam, a minor character from the Jungle Cruise ride, and giving his name to a tropical bar tucked deep inside the Polynesian resort. This place is pretty infamous, part nightclub, part tiki bar, and just a really fun thing to try if you have the time and inclination.
Trader Sam’s is a tiny space, dimly lit to take advantage of the multitude of floor shows that occur as different specialty drinks get ordered. It pays to look around in this fun space, as many of the decorations on the wall get in on the act when the entertainment begins. Given that every specialty drink triggers a different act by the waiters and the wall decorations, the entertainment is non-​stop when the room is full.
Kids will love this space, but it is a bar only and they do kick the younger set out at 8PM. And be aware of the souvenir glasses. Whenever you order a specialty drink you will be asked if you want the souvenir glass. All that means is when you are done they will give you a clean glass to take home with you. Your drink will still come served in a vase-​sized Nautilus, but unless you are dead set on taking home an expensive glass to remind you of your expensive drink you should probably respond in the negative to any souvenir requests. You can always request them when you ask for the check anyway.

My friend and I have been talking about this place for months so we finally committed to making a stop here during our most recent Disney trip.
First of all, it is not cheap, but we knew that ahead of time. You’re paying for a fun fancy-​pants drink on Disney property, you just gotta expect $ 20+ per drink!
Second, we were not staying on Disney property and had spent the day at Epcot. It was SO easy to take the monorail from Epcot to the Polynesian. It was great! Just be careful not to end up like us and make sure you head back before the Epcot monorail stops running (oops).
We came on a Friday night around 10 and had no problem at all getting a table, although I can tell from other reviews that we might have gotten lucky.
I had the Hippopotomai-​tai and my friend had the Shrunken Zombie Head. I definitely thought his souvenir cup was way cooler than mine but I liked my drink better. He’s into tiki stuff so I let him keep my cup so it didn’t really matter to me anyway. If you do care about the cups, though, definitely get the zombie head, it’s awesome looking.
Between our two drinks and one order of dumplings, our bill was about $ 70. Again, not cheap, but you gotta know what you’re signing up for here. Our server was awesome and kept calling us «kids» which I thought was funny (but I guess was accurate since I was surely the youngest person there). I noticed he had cute nicknames for all his tables.
BEST of all, we were able to enjoy the Magic Kingdom «Wishes» fireworks from the deck of the bar. It was seriously beautiful and basically as good as it gets (rivals being in the park, especially since we had drinks in hand).
It’s a dream of mine to stay at the Polynesian (an expensive dream) but coming here is a pretty good medium for me, for now. This may not be a stop for us during every single Disney trip, but I’m sure we’ll definitely be back again.

4 Stars for wonderfully cheesy fun at a somewhat hidden little bar at the Polynesian Resort.
This place was totally unexpected and bizarrely enjoyable. It’s rather dark inside and decorated with all kinds of Polynesian and ocean décor. But soon you realize the decoration isn’t static at all.
Without spoiling anything, every time you get a specialty drink delivered to you the bar erupts into something weird and entertaining. You’d think it would get old after a while, but oddly enough it actually doesn’t. (Especially if you play along and get into it!)
The drinks were mostly pretty sweet, so our server suggested I order the Mai Tai (less sweet). The drinks don’t feel expertly crafted, but that’s fine because they really don’t need to be– This is all about the ambiance, funny staff, and the show.
We also ordered a few small bites for the table. The highlight was the lettuce wraps with glazed chicken pieces (so tasty! But also on the small side). The tacos and dumplings were good, but not very memorable (though they admittedly have a lot to compete with!).
Overall, I’d return with a newbie friend just to delight in their expression when the sacrifice begins! ~cue evil laugh~

A hidden gem in the Polynesian resort!
Who says Disney is only for kids! This bar is pretty awesome. Thy make you feel like you’re on a tropical island. When you order the Krakatoa, the volcano outside the ‘window’ erupts and they give you a drink that glows like you’re drinking lava!
It’s pretty small, and gets kinda crowded. But if you go around they have a bar outside that sells the same thing.
They also have a nonalcoholic drink that comes in a tiki cup that you get to take home
Anytime you get a souvenir cup (which are awesome) they give you a brand new wrapped glass at the desk. So you don’t have to worry about sticky cups! just keep your receipt!

My favorite bar offered on Disney property. This is a must do for any tourist or local alike that is in the Disney area that is looking for something a little more adult targeted but nothing crazy but still silly.
So the highlight of this place is of course the drinks and the effects that happen when you order them. The rooms will light up and the cast members will get into character and start acting like they are on a jungle voyage based on what’s going on. Personally I love the krakatoa and the volcano effects.
Drinks are expensive though so beware it’ll book you around at least $ 10+, although some of the cups are really great souvenirs, that you can keep if you’d like. I would recommend if you have a party making reservations as in the inside room is pretty small and only can store so many people and it is open seating when getting in.
I always look forward to coming back here as this is not like any other bar offered around the area and also great for people who both love Disney and those who just want to drink and have a good time.

What a whimsical fun bar to hang out in the Disney Polynesian resort. They a decent bottled beer collection and three beers on tap. The fun drinks all the themed drinks like the Nautilus where bring it to you in scuba gear spraying water on everyone. It’s a fun interactive bar that’s a great getaway after a day at the park. The place is small so it fills up quick but it does open late.

I usually do not update a review so soon after my last visit. However, this recent visit was just sooooo different from my previous visits that I just had to update. We arrived around 5 to no line, no wait. Well, we did wait a bit for a table to open up. It’s pretty much survival of the fittest. You stalk tables along with fellow guests doing the same thing. We learned the hard way though. We hung back near the host stand surveying the room. Another party walks in, starts circling the room and snatches a table once the people got up. Live & learn.
Now the reason for the reduced rating is two-​fold. For one thing, the atmosphere was completely different. Yes, the effects go off based on your drink order, but the crew was just not into it. Our server basically WHISPERED the Uh-​Oa chant. No swimming around with the Nautilus either. Heck, it was so quiet in there that you could hear crickets chirping. One of the things that we have enjoyed the most at Trader Sam’s was the crew interaction and hijinks.
The other issue was the food & beverages. The drinks were not the same. This time, they tasted really watered down. We were just there less than two months ago, so we still pretty much can tell. The food was also meh. The Kalua Tacos that I loved, were blah. The Portugese sausage corn dog thingies were bland, undercooked and did not even taste like Portugese sausage.
I’m really hoping that this was a fluke. And yes, as the two star rating suggests, I have experienced better. Way better.

I was overly excited to find that there was a Trader Sam’s here since the only other one is in Downtown Disney in Anaheim, CA. Not only that, the last time I went for the shrunken ZOMBIE head souvenir cup and DT Disney was out of it! Anyways, they had the souvenir cup so I got the drink. Very strong but refreshing drink with like 5 different kinds of rum in it. After the drink, they actually give you a brand new cup in the bar unlike a lot of different souvenir cup places. We sat in the patio even though it was freezing but wanted to enjoy the talented musician that took us to an island paradise. Our server kind of gave us a dirty look for just ordering one drink for 2 people but I was too happy to worry about that. The bartenders outside were very sweet and gave me more insight on their specialty cocktails.
The only downside is that this grotto is a bit hidden and a lot smaller than the one in Downtown Disney. I guess if it was any bigger and easier to find, I wouldn’t have been able to get in anyways. Love it!

I am basically obsessed with Aku Aku tiki bar located in downtown Orlando so when I found out there was a Disney tiki bar I had to go check it out. I recently stayed at a Disney World hotel for my anniversary and I took advantage of the free transportation to check it out. My husband and I went on a Thursday night around 10pm. We took one of the small boats over from magic kingdom to the Polynesian hotel where Trader Sam’s is located. I think if I ever went again I’d just take the monorail. The boat was an extremely slow way to get there but we had fun stepping on roaches and checking out all of the spider webs around the boat. Silly Disney must’ve forgotten to take down the Halloween decorations on the boat! hah! (Maybe the creepy bugs will keep me away from these boat rides for good!)
So when we finally arrived at the Polynesian hotel we had no idea how to find the bar but once we walked up the dock and went up the stairs to the left it was easy to find. We were told that there were no seats available and were given a buzzer to be alerted when to go back. In the meantime, we took a seat at the outdoor bar area which has plenty of seating and even had live music. It was a very breezy night too so that was a bonus. We got started checking out the menu and ordered the Corn Battered Portuguese sausages with curry ketchup to munch on and decided to split a Mai Tai while we waited. The drink was great but I didn’t care for the sausages.
Before we finished the food and drink our buzzer went off. I think we had been waiting for 10 – 15 minutes. We quickly closed the tab outside and moved inside. The decorations are amazing! There is everything tiki you can imagine plastered all over the walls and I loved it! Depending on the drink that you get the servers do different little chants and moves. My husband ordered the zombie and it came in the coolest zombie mug and our server also did a little zombie act as she was bringing it out. I ordered the tiki tiki tiki tiki tiki rum (get it? If you’ve been to the enchanted tiki room at magic kingdom you know the song!). My drink was basically a piña colada and I LOVE pina coladas. Especially really boozy ones. All of the drinks here pack a punch and I feel are priced accordingly.
We were still hungry after the corn dog so we split the headhunter sushi roll. They do not skimp on the fish but the roll itself was super duper cold and made it less than enjoyable and it was on par with the publix sushi I’ve had. Nothing special. Anyway, I loved the experience and I may or may not return. I definitely prefer my much less touristy Aku Aku bar.

Is it worth the long wait? YES!
Are you looking for a good time at a bar on Disney property, this is your place!
Do you have to be a drinker? …It will make the experience better, but isn’t necessary! lol
I love the décor and theme all throughout. Even the bartenders/​servers are in character as well. It is a small space, but is quite comfortable for the amount of people they let in at a time.
All the specialty drinks has some type of experience you will notice with the room itself and if you have been sitting there for awhile, you will get the hang of what’s actually going on. Expect some cheesiness!
If you have time during your stay, go visit!

We hung out on the back patio of Trader Sam’s while we waited to be let into Grog Grotto. Outside has the same menu of drinks and appetizers as inside, but the atmosphere is completely different. If you don’t care about that part, but want the drinks (some in souvenir cups/​boats/​skulls/​heads) and food, sit outside instead of waiting to get in.
The inside is small and probably fits about 60ish people. Remember, this is a bar, not a restaurant, so we were let in and made our own way to find a place we could sit and eat. It is open seating, so I think we were lucky that there were only two of us and we didn’t have to fight for seating as there was a table free, and we quickly slid in and ordered (having already picked what we wanted while on the back patio). The appetizers or bar food came out very quickly and everything tasted great.
Inside is a mish-​mash of collected items from Sam’s travels. It is very eclectic and very fun. When certain drinks are ordered, different things happen. The lights flickered on and off, storm sounds and lightening started, while the server carried a boat drink out from the bar and around the entire bar — all while wearing a snorkel and a kids swim ring. Patrons were chanting «dive, dive, dive» as he delivered the drink.
Our server was great and the atmosphere was lively and fun. We will definitely be back again.