Disney veterans often list Boma as a must-visit dining destination at Walt Disney World, and for good reason. This fan-favorite buffet offers an immersive African experience with delicious food, a vibrant ambiance, and a prime location at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, here are the top reasons why Boma should be on your dining list for your next Disney vacation.
1. Experience Authentic African Culture
Boma provides guests with the unique opportunity to explore African culture right in the heart of Walt Disney World. Modeled after a bustling African marketplace, Boma combines rich cuisine, rhythmic music, and authentic architecture to transport guests into the heart of Africa. Under thatched roofs adorned with colorful tapestries, guests enjoy a diverse all-you-can-eat buffet that caters to all ages and tastes.
2. Explore New Flavors at Your Own Pace
At Boma, you have the freedom to explore African cuisine at your own pace. The buffet offers familiar favorites like mashed potatoes, roast beef, and macaroni and cheese alongside African-inspired dishes such as hummus, smoked meats, exotic salads, and flavorful soups. It’s a great opportunity for both adventurous eaters and those looking for comfort food to find something they love.
3. View Wildlife Before You Dine
One of the perks of dining at Boma is the chance to explore Animal Kingdom Lodge’s stunning savannas before your meal. The resort is home to magnificent animals like giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. Observation decks provide a close view of these creatures, and animal specialists are on hand to answer any questions you may have. Spending time observing the wildlife before your meal is a fantastic way to start your evening.
4. Start with Fresh Salads and Boma’s Famous Butternut Squash Soup
A visit to Boma isn’t complete without sampling the iconic butternut squash soup. This creamy, savory dish is a fan favorite, blending the rich flavor of squash with perfectly balanced spices. With several soups available, Boma’s selection of fresh salads and hearty soups is the perfect way to begin your dining experience. The African chicken salad, topped with feta cheese, is a standout choice for salad lovers.
5. Enjoy a Hearty Carving Station
No Disney buffet would be complete without a carving station, and Boma doesn’t disappoint. The station offers roast beef, roast turkey, and Durban-style roast chicken, along with other entrées like roasted salmon, pork ribs, and spice-crusted beef sirloin. The carving station consistently serves up fresh, juicy meats accompanied by a variety of sauces that enhance each dish’s flavors.
6. Indulge in a Flavorful Hummus Bar
Boma’s hummus bar is a must-try. Offering fresh rolls, pita bread, and the restaurant’s famous Mealie bread (a delightful corn muffin), the hummus bar features flavors like sun-dried tomato, black olive, and white bean hummus. The sun-dried tomato hummus spread on warm pita bread is a favorite combination you won’t want to miss.
7. Treat Yourself to Zebra Domes
Boma’s dessert bar is a highlight for many guests, featuring treats like brownies, apple cobbler, and bread pudding topped with vanilla or rum sauce. But the star of the show is the zebra domes—creamy white mousse infused with Amarula liqueur and decorated with dark chocolate stripes. This light, delightful dessert is a must-try and a standout on the Walt Disney World dessert scene.
8. Sip on French-Pressed Kenyan Coffee
Need a caffeine boost before heading back to the parks? Boma offers rich French-pressed Kenyan coffee, perfect for enjoying with dessert. The French press serves multiple guests, making it a great choice for sharing. Whether paired with a zebra dome or sipped solo, this coffee provides a satisfying conclusion to your meal.
9. Celebrate Birthdays with African Drums
At Boma, birthday celebrations are given a special twist. Instead of the usual serenade, servers play African drums as they approach the table, creating a lively and memorable celebration. Guests of all ages are delighted by the energy and authenticity of this unique birthday experience.
10. Unwind Fireside After Your Meal
No meal at Boma is complete without a visit to the resort’s cozy fire pits. Animal Kingdom Lodge offers both indoor and outdoor fire pits, allowing guests to relax and unwind in a serene, savanna-like setting. The comfortable seating around these glowing fire pits invites guests to linger, adding a magical end to your evening at Boma.
Dining at Boma is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that immerses you in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Africa. From the food to the ambiance, every detail is designed to transport you to another world, making it a must-do on your next Disney vacation. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a unique dining experience, Boma delivers on all fronts.
