Welcome to Sanaa!
To preface this review, I have to say I have been wanting to eat at Sanaa for a long time. I've heard just fantastic reviews about this place, and that it is quite an overlooked quality restaurant on property. So, I was very glad to finally be going to eat there. And I was not disappointed. This has become one of my most favorite restaurants at WDW. And, I've been there again since my first meal. So, without further delay...here is review #1. Be prepared for lots of terrific food!
We were greeted by our server Brenda, who was just fabulous. We had an amazing view of the Savannah, and the restaurant itself is just gorgeous. It feels serene here, and very quite. Brenda took our drink orders and then mentioned to us that Dennis Rodman happened to be in the bar (which is connected to the restaurant) that night and was causing quite a stir, so to not be surprised by it all. Sure enough, he was causing a bit of a commotion, playing bongos and greeting guests. Very funny. Luckily, we were quite a distance away and were able to still enjoy a nice, peaceful dinner.The chef arrived at our table and told me I had a lot of great options, that didn't need modifying. That I like! For an appetizer I chose the Mustard Seed Crusted Scallops with a coconut cream sauce. The only modification they needed to make for this was removing the addition of butter to finish the sauce (the sauce was just coconut milk). When they arrived, I was very pleasantly surprised. The scallops were so flavorful and huge! The sauce was a welcome addition, and really complimented the scallops. Overall, I would not hesitate to get this appetizer again. It was delicious!
Mustard Seed Crusted Scallops with a coconut cream sauce
For my entree, I chose the Sustainable fish option. It was an Arctic char with scallops and shrimp. It was remarkable! The curry broth was just so flavorful, I could not help but drink most of it! The fish was very good. Similar in texture to salmon but with a milder taste. There were tons of shrimp and scallops. If you enjoy seafood and a mild, but flavorful dish, this one's for you! Another get again option.
Today's sustainable fish (Arctic char with scallops and shrimp in a curry broth)
For dessert, my option was two different sorbets: mango and raspberry mint. Now, I absolutely love anything and everything mint, so that option really sounded good. I ended up getting both sorbets with fruit. The mango was very good. I've had several versions on property, and I found it to be quite tasty. But the raspberry mint...OMG to die for!!! The fresh mint taste in it was so refreshing and delicious. I ate and ate it. Not a bit left!!! I actually got this again when I went to Sanaa the second time. YUM!
Mango sorbet, Raspberry Mint sorbet and berries. In the background is Rooibos tea.
Overall, I just can't say enough good things about this restaurant. The service and attention from the chefs, and the food quality is beyond compare. One of my new favorite restaurants. When we went the second time, it certainly compared to this first trip, which means this restaurant is a real keeper and a true gem!
10 out of 10 for great food, service, ambiance, and quality!
**This dining experience took place in May 2011
Welcome to Sanaa!
Mango sorbet, Raspberry Mint sorbet and berries. In the background is Rooibos tea.