Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, is a dream vacation spot for many, offering a unique blend of Hawaiian culture, stunning natural beauty, and Disney magic. Located on the beautiful island of Oahu, Aulani provides an unforgettable experience for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. One of the most common questions potential guests have is about the dining options and whether food is included in the resort’s packages. In this article, we will delve into the world of Aulani’s culinary offerings, exploring the various dining options, meal plans, and special experiences that await you.
Understanding Aulani’s Dining Options
Aulani boasts an impressive array of dining venues, each offering a unique and delicious experience. From casual, quick-service eateries to upscale, fine-dining restaurants, there’s something for every taste and preference. The resort’s dining options include:
Aulani’s main restaurants serve a wide range of cuisine, from traditional Hawaiian dishes to international flavors. Ulu Cafe is a popular spot for breakfast and lunch, offering a variety of local specialties, such as poke bowls and laulau. For dinner, Ama Ama serves contemporary island cuisine, with dishes like grilled mahi-mahi and Huli Huli chicken.
Meal Plans and Packages
While food is not automatically included in the basic room rate at Aulani, the resort offers various meal plans and packages that can help you budget and plan your dining expenses. The Aulani Meal Plan allows you to pre-purchase a set number of meals per person, per day, which can be redeemed at participating restaurants and cafes. This plan can be a convenient and cost-effective option, especially for families or those who want to simplify their dining experience.
Breakdown of Meal Plan Options
The Aulani Meal Plan offers different tiers, each providing a specific number of meals and snacks per day. The plan can be purchased for the entire length of your stay, and meals can be redeemed at various resort restaurants, including Ulu Cafe, Ama Ama, and Off the Hook Poolside Bar. It’s essential to review the meal plan options carefully, as they may not include all dining venues or specialty items, such as character dining experiences or alcoholic beverages.
Special Dining Experiences
Aulani offers several special dining experiences that are not included in the standard meal plan. These unique events and character dinners provide an opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Some of the special dining experiences include:
Character breakfasts, where you can meet your favorite Disney characters while enjoying a delicious meal. These events are typically held at the resort’s main restaurants and require a separate reservation and payment.
Private dining experiences, such as romantic beach dinners or in-villa meals, which offer a more intimate and personalized setting. These services often come with an additional fee and may require advance reservations.
Food and Beverage Options Beyond Meal Plans
In addition to the meal plans and special dining experiences, Aulani offers various food and beverage options throughout the resort. These include:
- Quick-service eateries, like the _off the Hook Poolside Bar, which serves snacks and light meals by the pool.
- Convenience stores, such as the Lava Shack, which offers a selection of snacks, drinks, and sundries.
- Room service, available for guests who prefer to dine in the comfort of their own villa or room.
Insider Tips and Recommendations
To make the most of your dining experience at Aulani, consider the following insider tips and recommendations:
Plan ahead and make reservations for popular restaurants and character dining experiences, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Take advantage of the resort’s food and beverage options, such as the quick-service eateries and convenience stores, to grab a quick snack or meal on the go.
Don’t miss the opportunity to try some of the unique and delicious local specialties, such as poke bowls, laulau, and shave ice.
Consider purchasing the Aulani Meal Plan, which can help you budget and simplify your dining experience.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while food is not automatically included in the basic room rate at Aulani, the resort offers a variety of dining options, meal plans, and special experiences to suit every taste and budget. By understanding the different meal plan options, taking advantage of the resort’s food and beverage services, and planning ahead, you can create a memorable and enjoyable dining experience at Aulani. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a family-friendly meal, or a quick snack, Aulani has something for everyone. So, come and indulge in the culinary delights of Aulani, and make your vacation a truly unforgettable experience.
What types of dining options are available at Aulani?
Aulani offers a variety of dining options to cater to different tastes and preferences. From fine dining restaurants to casual eateries and snack bars, guests can enjoy a range of culinary delights during their stay. The resort features several restaurants, including ‘Ama’Ama, which serves contemporary island cuisine, and Ulu Cafe, which offers buffet-style meals and snacks throughout the day. Additionally, Aulani has a food court, called Uluhe Sandwich and Smoothie, where guests can grab quick bites and refreshing drinks.
The resort also provides private dining services, allowing guests to enjoy meals in the comfort of their own rooms or villas. Furthermore, Aulani often hosts special dining events and themed nights, featuring live music, entertainment, and unique menus. These events provide a great opportunity for guests to experience the local culture and cuisine while having a fun and memorable time with family and friends. With its diverse range of dining options, Aulani ensures that all guests have a delightful and satisfying culinary experience during their stay.
Are meals included in the cost of staying at Aulani?
The cost of staying at Aulani does not typically include meals, as the resort operates on a room-only basis. However, guests can purchase a meal plan or make reservations at the resort’s restaurants and pay for their meals separately. Aulani also offers a Disney dining plan, which allows guests to pre-purchase meal credits that can be redeemed at participating restaurants and eateries throughout the resort. This plan can help guests budget their food expenses and enjoy a more convenient dining experience.
Guests can also consider purchasing a character breakfast or other special dining experiences, which may be available at an additional cost. It’s recommended that guests check with the resort directly for the most up-to-date information on meal plans and pricing. Additionally, Aulani often offers special packages and promotions that include meals or dining credits, so it’s worth inquiring about these options when booking a stay. By planning ahead and taking advantage of the resort’s dining options, guests can enjoy a wonderful culinary experience at Aulani without breaking the bank.
Can I prepare my own meals at Aulani?
Yes, Aulani offers several options for guests who prefer to prepare their own meals. The resort’s villas are equipped with full kitchens, including appliances, cookware, and dinnerware, allowing guests to prepare and enjoy meals in the comfort of their own accommodations. Additionally, Aulani has a convenient store, called Hale Manu, where guests can purchase groceries and other essentials. The store offers a range of products, including fresh produce, meats, dairy products, and snacks, making it easy for guests to stock up on the items they need to prepare their own meals.
Guests can also take advantage of the resort’s outdoor barbecue areas, which are perfect for cooking up a storm and enjoying a meal al fresco. Furthermore, Aulani offers a food delivery service, allowing guests to order groceries and other items online and have them delivered to their villa. This service is convenient and time-saving, especially for families or groups who want to prepare their own meals without having to leave the resort. By providing these options, Aulani caters to guests who prefer to self-cater and enjoy the flexibility of preparing their own meals during their stay.
Are there any special dining options for children at Aulani?
Yes, Aulani offers several special dining options for children, making it an ideal destination for families. The resort’s restaurants and eateries offer kids’ menus, featuring a range of delicious and healthy options that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Additionally, Aulani hosts character breakfasts and other special dining events, where children can meet their favorite Disney characters and enjoy a fun and interactive meal. The resort also offers a kids’ club, called Aunty’s Beach House, which provides a safe and supervised environment for children to play and enjoy activities while parents relax and enjoy some time to themselves.
Aulani’s restaurants and eateries are also equipped to cater to children’s dietary needs, offering options such as high chairs, booster seats, and baby food. Furthermore, the resort’s convenience store, Hale Manu, sells a range of baby essentials, including formula, diapers, and baby food, making it easy for parents to stock up on the items they need. By providing these special dining options and amenities, Aulani ensures that children have a wonderful and memorable dining experience during their stay, and that parents can relax and enjoy their vacation without worrying about their little ones.
Can I request special dietary accommodations at Aulani?
Yes, Aulani is happy to accommodate special dietary requests and requirements. The resort’s restaurants and eateries offer a range of options to cater to different dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan meals. Guests can also request special meals and accommodations by contacting the resort in advance, and the culinary team will do their best to accommodate their needs. Additionally, Aulani’s convenience store, Hale Manu, sells a range of specialty foods and products, including gluten-free and vegan options, making it easy for guests to stock up on the items they need.
Aulani’s culinary team is also trained to handle food allergies and intolerances, and the resort has protocols in place to ensure that guests with special dietary needs are safe and accommodated. Guests can request a special dietary accommodation form when they check-in, which will help the resort’s staff to identify their needs and provide the necessary accommodations. By providing these special dietary options and accommodations, Aulani ensures that all guests have a wonderful and inclusive dining experience during their stay, regardless of their dietary needs or requirements.
Can I dine at Aulani if I’m not a guest of the resort?
Yes, Aulani’s restaurants and eateries are open to the public, and non-guests are welcome to dine at the resort. However, it’s recommended that non-guests make a reservation in advance, especially during peak periods or for special events. Aulani’s restaurants and eateries offer a range of dining options, from fine dining to casual eats, and non-guests can enjoy the same high-quality cuisine and service as resort guests. Additionally, non-guests can also take advantage of the resort’s other amenities, such as the spa, fitness center, and pool areas, by purchasing a day pass or making a reservation.
Non-guests can park in the resort’s parking garage and receive validation for their parking when they dine at one of the resort’s restaurants or eateries. Aulani also offers a convenient shuttle service from the parking garage to the resort’s main lobby, making it easy for non-guests to get around. By opening its restaurants and eateries to the public, Aulani provides a wonderful opportunity for locals and visitors to experience the resort’s culinary delights and enjoy a memorable dining experience in a beautiful and relaxing setting.
How can I make dining reservations at Aulani?
Guests can make dining reservations at Aulani by contacting the resort directly or by using the online reservation system. The resort recommends making reservations in advance, especially for popular restaurants and special events, to ensure availability. Guests can also make reservations through the My Disney Experience app or by calling the resort’s dining reservation line. Additionally, Aulani’s concierge team can assist with making dining reservations and provide recommendations for the best dining options based on guests’ preferences and dietary needs.
Aulani also offers a convenient online check-in system, which allows guests to confirm their dining reservations and make any necessary changes to their plans. Guests can also use the online system to request special accommodations, such as high chairs or booster seats, and to provide any special dietary requests or requirements. By making it easy to make dining reservations, Aulani ensures that guests can plan their culinary experience in advance and enjoy a stress-free and memorable dining experience during their stay.