Satu'li Canteen - a Pandorian Delight

When they announced that they would be adding a new Quick Service location to the highly anticipated Pandora in 2017, I was pretty excited. Then they previewed some menu options and I got even more excited, as it all sounded fresh, new and even on the healthy side!  In the 6 years since this establishment has opened, it has become a regular Animal Kingdom stop for me.  I feel like it really started a new wave of creative and delicious Quick Service options at Walt Disney World.

Ordering stations and bright menus overhead

There are two main features on the menu here, the pods and the bowls.  The bowls are a create-your-own option by mixing and matching their proteins, sauces, and bases (think the Chipotle of Pandora) while the pods are fixed cheeseburger flavor which are very popular.

Let's start with the unique and fan-favorite Cheeseburger Pod (bao bun) which is similar to the Cheeseburger Spring Roll from the Adventureland Cart that has a bit of a cult following. An adult portion comes with the signature pod, veggie slaw and crunchy vegetable chips for $13.29.  However, we like to get a kid's meal of the pod and treat it like an appetizer to our meal of bowls.  Kid's pods come with vegetable chips and a cutie along with a small bottle of water for $8.59.

Steamed Cheeseburger Pod stuffed with Ground Beef, Ketchup, Mustard, Pickle, and Cheddar Cheese served with Vegetable Chips

Cheeseburger filling

I am the odd one out in that I'm not a fan of cheeseburger flavor things, so the bowls are my go-to option.  You can choose from Smoked Chimichurri-braised Beef, Wood-grilled Chicken, Chili-Garlic Shrimp or Chili-Spiced Crispy Fried Tofu. Base options include red and sweet potato hash, noodles, rice and beans or a hearty salad while sauce options include charred green onion vinaigrette, black bean vinaigrette or a creamy herb sauce.

Smoked chimichurri-braised beef bowl - $14.49

All bowls come with a veggie slaw and boba balls, and for proteins the chicken or beef are my go-to options, they are always cooked well, flavorful and plentiful in the bowls.  I've also tried numerous combinations of the bases and sauces and really always been happy with how they turned out.  The bowls have a nice variety of crunch and flavors, and while the Boba balls look a little strange, they burst in your mouth and add a nice sweet component to the dish overall. If you have a bigger appetite or want to split an entrée they do offer a combo bowl with both chicken and beef for $17.49 which can be a great option. 

While I love that Satu'li Canteen offers smaller portions of the adult menu for the kids so they can also try the fun variety, if bowls and pods sound too adventurous for your younger travelers, they also offer hot dogs and cheese quesadillas. 

The other thing I love about this spot for food is that the desserts are creative and beautiful.  You can choose from two Instagram worthy delights.

Metkayina Mousse - Flourless Chocolate Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Raspberry Gelée, Mango Coulis, Boba Pearls, and a Milk and White Chocolate Garnish

Blueberry Cream Cheese Mousse with Passion Fruit Curd

The canteen also offers specialty cocktails and non-alcoholic beverages along with a few unique beers as well as some wines from Earth. Like most quick service locations, there is no full bar here. 

So overall the food was wonderful and people know how good it is, so it is often a popular spot for lunch and dinner.  There is both indoor and outdoor seating, and ample drink station space to accommodate main meal time crowds.  There were also constantly Cast Members working the dining floor keeping an eye on things and keeping it clean for all to find tables and enjoy their meals.  We recommend Mobile Ordering and checking for available times before you get too hungry in case there's a bit of a wait for availability to pick up your order.

This is a great addition to the dining options at Animal Kingdom.  Have you gotten a chance to give it a try or is this on your to-do list for your next trip?  What have your favorite dishes been?

*Prices were accurate as of August 2023

Maci Schau

Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks.  You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.