Jungle Navigation Co. LTD, Skipper Canteen

Ever since I reported on the rumor that a Jungle Cruise themed table-service restaurant was coming to Magic Kingdom I have been counting down the days until my next trip to Walt Disney World. Then the Jungle Navigation Co. LTD, Skipper Canteen opened and the first look at the menus started showing up all over social media. I will be the first to admit that the food descriptions looked adventurous to say the least. Some were not overjoyed by the choices. A few not so Jungle Cruise friendly reviews popped up, but I didn’t let that damper my excitement or my desire to experience this gorgeous restaurant.

I finally got my first taste of the Skipper Canteen on February 29, 2016 and I have to say it blew my expectations out of the water! Seeing the backside of water couldn’t have impressed me more than the delectable food did. Seriously guys, DO NOT LISTEN TO THE BAD REVIEWS! Please give this restaurant a chance to win you over, because I’m sure it will!

I started off with one of the signature drinks, the Schweitzer Slush which was created by the famous explorer Dr. Albert Slush. The slush is frozen apple juice and passion fruit topped with green apple boba balls and is absolutely delicious. The only bummer was that they are no longer served in souvenir mugs. My husband had one of the exotic Coca-Cola selections, the Thailand Fanta Melon Frosty. It was very good, and you may recognize the flavor from Club Cool in Epcot. Every table is given complimentary bread service which includes a honey infused dip that is AMAZING!

I knew the minute I saw it on the menu months ago that I had to try the Ginger “Croc” Hot and Sour Soup. I LOVE hot and sour soup and have it any chance I get. I have to say that Ginger did not let me down! It was brilliant! Full of flavor, just the right amount of spice; and I really believe the red wine vinegar adds the perfect kick. We loved the soup so much I tried getting some to go. Unfortunately, they aren’t set up for that. Boo! (BUT, we did go back another night just for the soup!)

Ginger “Croc” Hot and Sour Soup

It took some time to decide on our entrees, but I finally settled on the Char Sui Pork with Chinese Broccoli and Five Grain Rice and let me tell you the pork was to die for! Trust me when I say there are no words to describe how incredible it is. My husband got the Curried Vegetable Crew Stew with Chicken added to it. The chicken was juicy and flavorful and the veggies were just perfect.

I was so full, but had my eye on the Coconut Bar with Pineapple-Basil Compote and vanilla cream. Unfortunately, I am allergic to pineapple, so I wasn’t quite sure if I would be able to get it. The waitress was unsure also, so she recommended the Bertha’s “Banh Bong Lon” Cake with Mango-Lime Sorbet as an alternative. I agreed, but was so excited when she came back with the Coconut Bar minus the Pineapple-Basil Compote, but the chef added Basil sugar to it and a little white chocolate “Happy Birthday” for me! I was blown away by the thoughtfulness!

“Special Allergy Friendly” Coconut Bar with Basil Sugar and Vanilla Cream

I can’t say enough good things about the Jungle Navigation Co. LTD, Skipper Canteen restaurant. It was by far one of the highlights of our trip and is now one of our top “Must Do’s” while visiting Magic Kingdom. I will say that our waitress seemed overjoyed that we enjoyed the food and we left with the feeling that these servers have heard their fair share of complaints. We did see at least one couple who was seated shortly after us walk out after glancing at the menu, which broke my heart. I truly hope everyone goes to the restaurant with an open mind, because the food is like a party for your taste buds!

Jungle Cruise Skippers are ready to take you on the next adventure!

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