Exciting news for Disney enthusiasts and food lovers alike: the new Island Tower of Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is set to open its doors on December 17, 2024, boasting multiple new amenities including Wailulu Bar & Grill. This casual walk-up pool bar and grill promises a delightful fusion of Polynesian flavors and Disney magic.
This new Disney restaurant is bursting with romance and relaxation. I previewed Wailulu Bar & Grill and toured the new Island Tower before it opened so I could help spread the word – like a Wayfinder. Keep reading to learn what to expect and how to plan a romantic Disney date here.
Wailulu Bar & Grill
Situated along the serene shores of Seven Seas Lagoon, Wailulu Bar & Grill offers stunning waterfront views. The ambiance is enriched with exclusive Polynesian-inspired artwork, including floating tropical fish sculptures crafted from recycled materials and reclaimed fishing nets, creating a unique and eco-friendly dining environment.
The name “Wailulu” is derived from the Hawaiian words “wai,” meaning water, and “lulu,” meaning calm, reflecting the tranquil atmosphere guests can expect at this new dining spot. As I approached Wailulu the tranquility of the vast outdoor bar and dining area immediately attracted me. This may quickly become one of my favorite places at Walt Disney World Resort.
Polynesian Culinary Delights
The menu at Wailulu Bar & Grill celebrates the diverse flavors of the Polynesian Islands (not just Hawaii), drawing inspiration from regions such as Easter Island, New Zealand, Fiji, and Guam.
I spoke with Bobby Rivera, Chef de Cuisine with Walt Disney World about the development of the menu.
“We started two years ago planning and developing our menu. We really wanted to showcase the flavors of Polynesia – all of the Polynesian islands. There's some great traditional flavors here.”
I sampled Sweet Potato Hummus with Breadfruit Tostones, Spiced Ham Musubi, and an elevated take on Loco Moco.
Usually, Loco Moco is a comfort food dish of rice, hamburger patty, and an egg smothered in a savory gravy. At Wailulu this casual food is elevated with beef short rib and a delightful shitake mushroom gravy that is not quite to the sophisticated level of Chateaubriand sauce, but it's pretty close. A fried egg tops it off, adding to the decadence.
The rice cake that accompanied the sample I tried was too dry, but I loved the short rib so much that I still put this dish at my favorite from my visit.
Lighter fare is available of course, like sustainable fish, poke bowls, and chow mein salads. Of course, desserts are a highlight too like Chocolate Cake infused with the essence of Kona coffee.
For breakfast, the venue will serve specialty coffee and on-the-go morning pastries, while lunch and dinner offerings will feature a variety of flavorful options.
Beverage Offerings
The beverage menu is thoughtfully curated, blending modern Polynesian flavors with classic ingredients like hibiscus flowers, sake, yuzu, pandan, oolong tea, coffee, and passionfruit. Signature cocktails include the Pandan Gin Gin Mule and the Passionfruit & Pineapple Daiquiri.
Non-alcoholic options such as Hibiscus Iced Tea and Yuzu Oolong Tea Lemonade are also available, plus a non-alcoholic Piña Colada served on the rocks. I tried the Hibiscus Iced Tea and selfishly asked for another once I was done with my first glass – I loved it!
There is a wraparound outdoor bar plus multiple lounge-style tables near the bar. Then a row of outdoor dining tables face a collection of curved booths that nestle against a stunning water feature.
All of the outdoor dining and seating at the bar overlooks the Seven Seas Lagoon with Cinderella Castle in the distance. This means Wailulu Bar & Grill offers a Magic Kingdom fireworks view!
It is going to be so magical to sip on a tropical drink, nibble on island-inspired food, and watch the fireworks without the crowds of the theme parks.
How to Dine at Wailulu Bar & Grill
Reservations are not accepted at Wailulu Bar & Grill. This means a few things. 1) You cannot park at Disney's Polynesian to dine at Wailulu unless you are a hotel guest. 2) Dinner time will be very busy and crowded as folks hope to catch a table in time for a fireworks viewing. 3) You may have a long wait during peak periods.
Hours of operation
- Breakfast: 7:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. (grab and go)
- Restaurant: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
- Bar 11:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
If you are not staying at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, you should park at Disney Springs and utilize Disney bus transportation.
Mark your calendars for December 17 and be among the first to experience the culinary journey that awaits at Wailulu Bar & Grill. Whether you're a local, a Disney Vacation Club member, or a guest at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, this new addition is sure to become a favorite dining destination. It certainly swept me away!