Post #716014 by Hurricane Hayward on Mon, May 5, 2014 2:38 PM

Here's my full story on Trader Sam's coming to Disney World, with info gleaned from a number of sites and sources, plus some stuff I don't think has been published before. And an added bonus: A special cocktail recipe to welcome Sam to Orlando.

http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2014/05/05/say-aloha-to-trader-sams-grog-grotto-at-disneys-polynesian-village-resort/

Of most interest to folks here on TC:

Steve “Tikiman” Seifert is reporting that the seating capacity of Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto will be 50 inside and 80 outside overlooking the soon-to-be refurbished pool. He said that with the work on the lobby now extending deeper into 2015, it's possible that Trader Sam's will also get pushed out from what he previously announced (February opening). He mentioned rumored changes to Kona Cafe, but nothing major at Tambu Lounge or 'Ohana. He also said that "other things that will be added around the resort" will continue with the Adventureland theme.

Another person with inside sources says that the giant Tiki that's depicted in the rendering above in the center of the Great Ceremonial House (replacing the current water feature) may stand up to 15 feet tall. I didn't include it in the article since I couldn't really confirm it, but the same person is saying that Kevin & Jody are working on Tikis for the lobby, and that when the torch-lighting returns it will have its own area with hula dancers.

I posted some info I was given about the development of Trader Sam's in Anaheim, including a link to the old Polynesian (see image above).

Lastly, I created The Trader’s Polynesian Aloha Grog as a tribute to both the old Polynesian and the coming of Trader Sam's.
http://www.slammie.com/atomicgrog/blog/2014/05/05/say-aloha-to-trader-sams-grog-grotto-at-disneys-polynesian-village-resort/#polynesian-grog

Okole maluna!