Flame Tree BBQ is situated in Animal Kingdom’s Discovery Island, overlooking Discovery River with a fantastic water-front view of Expedition Everest, this has to be one of the most picturesque Quick Service locations in Walt Disney World. It’s a great place to recharge at lunch as you criss-cross the park or to refuel at dinner as you head out of Animal Kingdom to explore other areas of Walt Disney World for the evening.
After a long morning of trekking through the jungle and searching for elephants, tigers, gorillas, and hippos, nothing beats a stroll through a crafty, safari-themed village and stumbling upon some good ol’ southern style barbeque. Kicking back in the shade to enjoy your delicious provisions, surrounded by tropical plants and exotic sculptures is just the icing on the cake (sauce on the ribs?).
It sure is colorful
Photo by WDW Shutterbug
Decor
Flame Tree BBQ is a gem at Animal Kingdom – it’s got a circle of life theme (look around to see artwork of animals eating other animals – in an adorable, colorful, and family-friendly way of course!) and the attention to detail in decor is outstanding.
Seating for this counter service location is spread out over a vast network of artfully decorated pavilions placed throughout dense tropical foliage with ponds, sculptures, and other playful touches peeking out at every turn.
Like the rest of Discovery Island, you can expect to see a lot of colors like deep red, bright teal, vibrant orange, and mellow blue in floor-to-ceiling decoration. Sculpted wood, lovely lanterns, and detailed ironwork chairs give this place a bit of bohemian flair.
Despite the playful furnishings, this is actually a very relaxing place to find some shade, enjoy a peaceful view, and tuck in to some great grub.
Dad’s Animal Kingdom page
Lots of outdoor seating
Photo by WDW Shutterbug
Hours and Location
Flame Tree BBQ is open daily from 11:00am until park closing. It is located in Discovery Island, the central land in Animal Kingdom.
Menu
The menu is simple and the portions are generous – more than enough to share! Entrees are served with coleslaw and baked beans, and the meat is seasoned with a special rub and smoked in-house. Gluten Free options are available too!
BBQ Options 1/2 Slab of St. Louis Ribs, 1/2 Chicken, Pork Sandwich, Smoked Turkey Breast Sandwich
Lighter Options Barbeque Chicken Salad with mixed greens, Fruit Plate
Sides and Desserts French Fries, Onion Rings, Key Lime Mousse, Chocolate Mousse
Kids Baked Chicken Drumstick, Hot Dog, or PB&J
This looks good
Photo by travelhyper
Prices
This is a quick service location, so meals here count as one Quick Service Disney Dining Plan credit per person. If you’re paying out of pocket, expect to spend $7-12 for an adult entrée and $5.49 for a kids meal. The portions here are very large, so you might consider sharing to save money or dining plan credits!
Order here
Photo by WDW Shutterbug
Fun Facts
Some simple fun facts –
- The Spice Rub and BBQ Sauce used can only be found here – the same recipes are not used at any other location on Walt Disney World property.
- If you can’t get enough of that sweet and spicy Flame Tree BBQ sauce, head on over to the condiment islands located throughout the restaurant – the sauce is in a pump located beside the ketchup and you can help yourself to as much as you like.
- The Discovery Island section of Animal Kingdom where Flame Tree BBQ is located was originally called Safari Village.
Dad’s Bottom Line
One of, if not the, best places to grab a quick bite in Animal Kingdom, Flame Tree BBQ certainly gives other counter-service locations a run for their money (you won’t find a burger or pizza on the menu here!). Great food with a great view – what more can you ask for?
