While we can’t say all of the dining options at Disney Aulani could be considered “must-do”, the best meal we ate while at Aulani was at Ama Ama. Considered Aulani’s fine dining experience, if your budget can allow it, Ama Ama should be experienced at least once during your trip.
The Atmosphere at Ama Ama
Ama Ama at Disney’s Aulani features an elevated menu in a gorgeous setting. Overlooking the lagoon, the views from Ama Ama cannot be beat. Ama Ama at Disney’s Aulani Resort has outdoor seating that is classy, yet in an I’m-in-Hawaii type of way, so it’s not too fussy or stuffy. The outdoor vibe is relaxing and beautiful. And if you make a reservation for dinner you can watch the sunset over the lagoon right from your table.
The meal is meant to be enjoyed leisurely, so while the service felt a bit slow to us, it also felt like it was purposely set up that way. Which was nice because we never felt hurried or rushed. Which was a much-needed break from our Disney Aulani Road Trip around Oahu earlier that day.
How Long is Dinner at Ama Ama?
Over the course of our meal through dessert, we were probably at Ama Ama for close to 2 hours, so if you’re looking to eat here during your trip, be sure to allow yourself enough time to actually enjoy it.
Food at Disney Aulani Ama Ama
Ama Ama at Aulani serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. And although we only had dinner here, breakfast sounded absolutely delicious and is on our list for next time.
Ama Ama Dinner
For dinner, you can count on delicious seafood options as well as classics like New York Strip Steak, Free Range Chicken, and Colorado Lamb. They also offer a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks to add to your meal. We got the scallops with a mac nut brown butter sauce and the New York Strip Steak with Asian chimichurri. The scallops were cooked to perfection, which, if you’re a seafood lover, you know is key when eating out. And the steak was perfectly seasoned and delicious. They also have a wide variety of side dishes that you can add to your entrees or order separately if you have a smaller appetite.
Ama Ama Dessert
For dessert, you can look forward to Pineapple Cheesecake, Flourless Chocolate cake and a Mocha Chantilly Cake. You can see the whole dessert menu here, and everything we had was delicious.
Does Ama Ama have a dress code?
Yes, Ama Ama does have a dress code! While they don’t require anything fancy, they do require Resort Causal dress and all attire should be ” family-friendly” to align with the family-friendly atmosphere. Shoes and shirts are required and although this might be a no-brainer, it should be noted. No clothes with rips(goodbye distressed denim) or offensive graphics on tees. So while you don’t have to wear your Sunday best, if you follow a few simple rules, you’ll be in good shape.
Do I need reservations for Ama Ama?
Although reservations are recommended, if you forget to make reservations or procrastinate, they occasionally do have walk-ups, so it never hurts to ask if they have availability or cancellations. We made our reservations about 2 weeks before our trip and there were plenty of available spots, but we also visited during the off-season in the middle of May, so we recommend erring on the side of caution and making the reservation as soon as you know you want to go. You can always cancel later.
Is Ama Ama worth it?
Ama Ama was the best meal we had while at Aulani, hands down, but it will cost you. It’s the type of cost that you’ll want to make sure you add to your Disney Aulani Resort Budget, especially if you have a large party. We love food, so for us, food usually takes a huge chunk of our budget and we expect it. However, if you’re traveling with pickier eaters, would rather spend your money on other things, or don’t want to take time out of your time at the resort for a long meal, then you may want to consider skipping it. Overall, Ama Ama was expensive, but I would highly recommend it if your budget allows it. With a beautiful setting and delicious food, this is a splurge we think you deserve on your trip to Aulani. After all, you’re on vacation!
Melanie Renee is a photographer, writer, designer and mom. Visiting Disney destinations since 2010, she is also an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. When she's not creating her next coffee recipe, or designing apparel at Polka Dot Pixie Shop, she's seeking beautiful sunsets and planning her next trip .
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