Trader Sam’s was fun and entertaining! It is somewhat hidden at the end of a hallway with a very simple door and a small sign. The door was closed and there are no windows to look in. We go in and get our buzzer and are told the wait is going to be an hour. 
We notice on the buzzer that it says it is open seating inside and you are not guaranteed a table. What? So when it is our turn, after standing there awkwardly in front of the hostess, she tells us to seat ourselves. There was a table that could fit three people open so we were good. I’m thinking by not guaranteeing a table they mean you may be sitting at the bar or have to share a table if the numbers don’t work out? I did see three people trying to squeeze into two seats at the bar, so just be warned you are taking your chances.

The atmosphere and special effects are what this place is all about.  The room is filled with props that have a Jungle Cruise and Adventurer’s Club vibe; there is a ton to look at. If you pick a drink with a souvenir glass, it comes with its own special effects and presentation. A volcano erupts, a storm starts brewing or an angry tiki god come alive. Stick around so you get to see all the different presentations.

Now the prices aren’t listed on the menu so make sure you research those before, as the drinks are very expensive. Some come with ceramic or plastic cups. You can choose to not take home the cup, which is a nice option.  I ordered the Dark and Tropical Stormy and my friend got the Shrunken Zombie Head.  The lights went off, the black lights came on and warning of a dead man walking was shouted as the Shrunken Zombie Head came out.  The Tropical Stormy was made with ginger beer and it had a slight spicy taste to it. I enjoyed it.

Here is the second reason the drinks are priced so highly. The staff is constantly having fun and goofing off. I saw the bartender throwing food at a server from across the room. The hosts were running around with signs in their hands. This is part of the experience. If you are in a hurry don’t come here because most of the staff stop what they are doing to help with the drink presentations every couple of minutes. If you are okay with the staff being a little obnoxious and rude this is the place for you! It’s all part of the fun.

There is also outside seating which is much more relaxing. It has a waterfall and umbrellas and I heard they have live music sometimes. The have the same menu, with the addition of the Spikey Pineapple (which is Dole Whip spiked with rum!). So you can always go there and still get the fun souvenir glasses. I plan to try the Spikey Pineapple on the terrace once it cools down a little here. It was definitely worth the trip just to experience this Disney interactive fun.

Let me know your thoughts on Trader Sam’s!

Melissa P.