In March 2013, we embarked on a spur of the moment trip to Walt Disney World.  As in, my friend, Rose, approached me at the end of February wanting to book her and her daughter’s first trip and invited us along.  Three weeks later, we were at the World for spring break.  That being said, we didn’t have first pick of restaurants when it came to dining but managed to snag a few reservations at some family favorites like 1900 Park Fare and Garden Grill. We spent our last day in Animal Kingdom sans dining. While winding our way through the African/Asian border (you knew those were right next to each other, right?), we happened upon Yak & Yeti…
Yak & Yeti Sign at Animal Kingdom
The MMM family’s experience with Yak & Yeti was nil except for grabbing some fried rice and a Sprite in a souvenir cup from the quick service side one afternoon.

We couldn’t ignore the aroma of Asian cuisine wafting through the dance party in front of the restaurant, but we were heading to dinner soon after we left Animal Kingdom and didn’t want to spoil our appetites.  When Rose suggested we see if there were any tables available, I quickly agreed!

The Atmosphere

Two stories with small rooms serving as the dining area.  We were seated on the second floor, which had us even more secluded from the crowds and really played into the story of Yak & Yeti and Anandapur (the Asian village in Animal Kingdom). This restaurant is absolutely gorgeous!  With Asian “artifacts” adorning the walls, ceilings and floors of the interior, you get the feeling that you truly have stepped into a local restaurant in the middle of a quaint village. There was so much to look at in the restaurant that you could almost spend your entire meal time perusing the art and decor instead of actually eating.

 

Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Bell outsitde Yak & Yeti
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom

The Food

But it isn’t the decor that lures you in, as beautiful as it is, it’s the delicious smells beckoning you from the streets of Anandapur a la cartoon vapors. Seriously. And the food did NOT disappoint!!

Rose is definitely a more adventurous eater than I and decided to go all out with the Malaysian Seafood Curry. Well, that and it was pretty warm that day, and I didn’t know if such a heavy meal would sit right with me as we were headed to climb Everest after lunch. Sweet friend she is, though, she shared her entree, and it was FANTASTIC! I mean, so much so that I think I may be forced to order it on my next visit to Yak & Yeti. I opted for the lighter stir-fried beef and broccoli, which proved to be pretty yummy, too. Stitchy went mainstream and got and enjoyed his chicken strips with rice. They do, however, have a few more exotic options on the kids’ menu, as Rose’s daughter chose the vegetable lo mein and loved it.

Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom
Yak & Yeti in Animal Kingdom

Currently, Yak & Yeti, although not owned and operated by Disney, accepts the Disney Dining Plan.  They do NOT honor the Tables in Wonderland card but our waiter did advise that they do offer an annual passholder discount.  This may change at any time, of course.

Have you stopped at the table or quick service? What did you think? Share your thoughts in the comments!

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