Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto announced for Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, part of Walt Disney World hotel upgrades

in Disney, Food, Walt Disney World

Announced today, Walt Disney World is returning their famous Polynesian hotel to its original name, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, as part of an ongoing makeover.

But even more exciting to tiki fans is the announcement of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, a version of the popular bar at the Disneyland Resort, that will open at Walt Disney World in 2015.


Video: Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto, Polynesian hotel makeover announced at Walt Disney World


The resort’s pool and centerpiece Great Ceremonial House are being remade. Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will feature tiki cocktails and Polynesia-themed small plates.

Disney has also announced another eatery called the Pineapple Lenai kiosk to serve the popular Dole Whip, set to open in late 2014.

The hotel’s Nanea Volcano pool will be receiving some enhancements, a water playground with slides, a new hot tub, and a bigger deck.

Disney released concept art for Trader Sam’s as well as the new look for its lobby area:


NEW (5/15/14):

This new artwork appears to show Uh Oa, the Tiki Goddess of Disaster from the “Under New Management” version of the Enchanted Tiki Room.

(Uh Oa photo from The Magic in Pixels.)

Uh Oa is also the name of a drink currently served at the original Trader Sam’s at Disneyland, likely to anger this goddess whenever ordered at Walt Disney World.


Walt Disney World president George Kalogridis made the announcement during an “Around Our World” presentation to the press.

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