Boma's verses Jiko's

[goldilocks_63]

Hi, we'd like to try something different (at least I would). It's me, DH (meat and potatoes kinda guy), and DD-6 somewhat adventerous.

I'm also looking for atmosphere (like a fire pit).

Any suggestions which is better, and why?

Thanks, Goldi

I've never been to AKL, what else to see while we're there (ie like a show, or fireworks, etc).

Going Dec 17 - 24th....

 

[Scratch42]

We are Jiko Lovers!

Can't comment on Boma since DD won't even think about it!

AKL is very beautiful and should be all decked out for Christmas!

The animals on the savanah, the fire pit inside the hotel or outside with those rocking chairs........

Go Enjoy!

Scratch

 

[ILUVDXL]

Like Scratch we are huge Jiko fans. We've never tried Boma's only becuse we're not big on buffets but most everyone raves about it (we are considering trying breakfast there if we can fit it in this trip) AKL is a great experience, all around.

 

[fizz13]

I would suggest Boma's purely because then everybody will find something they like. On quality level, they are about evens but Jiko is a quiet sit-down place and maybe your DD would prefer the relaxed atmosphere of Boma. Check out the menus at Allears.net (sorry, can't figure out web links) and this might give you a better idea.
Claire

 

[Rhonna]

We've stayed at AKL and eaten at both Boma's and Jiko's.

Boma's is a buffet - albeit a nice one.

Jiko's is a fine dining restaurant - but not a "stuffy" one.

Let me stress - we personally are NOT buffet people. However, we decided to try Boma's since so many people rave about it. We felt it was alright. There were some things we enjoyed - nothing was bad. But it just didn't do anything for us. Nothing stood out as really special. We don't prefer getting up to get our food and it was busier and noisier than Jiko's.

Jiko's was heaven for us. We liked it so much we went again a few nights later and loved it just as much.

What would YOUR family enjoy more - a very nice buffet or an excellent fine dining restaurant? I think both are very good in what they are designed for. You can't really go wrong if you pick the type of dining experience you would naturally lean toward.

And neither place has highly spiced food. There are interesting choices at both places but also more "normal" type foods to choose from too.

Both have great decor and atmosphere - Jiko's being calmer/quieter.

Regarding your question about AKL - there are no fireworks - it would freak the animals out. It is a peaceful and relaxed, beautiful resort. There are things like storytelling around the fire pit. There is also a tour (free) of the main lobby. It's a huge, gorgeous lobby and has alot of African artwork. The tour was really interesting. They will give you an information sheet when you check in so you will know what activities are available during your stay.

Be sure to walk around inside the resort and check out all the areas where you can view the different savannahs. There are different animals on the 3 or 4 savannahs. The outdoor viewing area only overlooks the main savannah. The pool area looks towards another savannah. There is a savannah with a viewing room/area past the check in desk to the left. I think there is a fourth area further down the left corridor.

The map they give you is pretty clear that there are different savannahs and viewing areas. If in doubt, just walk around and look out the windows, or ask someone who works there.

 

[webray]

Jiko and Boma are both wonderful in their own right. They are two very different experiences.

Boma..buffet, has tons to offer, meats, salads, desserts, etc. They have a nice small selection of african wines and some beers.
This is a relaxed..no rush buffet..plan at least an hour to enjoy it fully.

Jiko..is more upscale, trendy african type food. The chef is innovative and there are many wonderful items on the menu. This is a very relaxed restaurant..plan at least two hours from start to finish...appetizer to dessert. You get time between your courses to let food digest..no rushing here. There have always been children in Jiko when we are there..very, very well behaved children that are used to sitting for that length of time at dinner.

 

[zakatak]

I love both! But if your dh is a meat and potatoes man, he'll love the Filet w/ Macaroni & Cheese at Jiko! My dh loves it!

Karen

 

[Northwoods]

We loved Jiko the last time and made another PS for our upcoming trip in Dec. When I made the PS yesterday - they said Jiko has a dress code.

Which I don't remember from last time. She said it was 'smart casual'.

 

[wildernesslodgelover]

Jiko's "may" be my favorite WDW restaurant! It is excellent! I have not eaten at Boma but have a PS for our next trip in Nov so i am looking forward to it!

 

[harlock_jds]

I just returned from the AKL and ate at both places. They are easily the 2 best restaurants me and my mother ate at while at WDW (the other notable places we ate was the brown derby and the courncourse steakhouse we would have eaten at more places but went to boma more than once during the trip). Boma is a little 'safer' for people without exotic tastes, the prime rib is good, and has some great soups and amazing hummus but was a bit chaotic with kids. Jiko is absolutely fantastic. I would recommend eating at both but if you could only choose one go with Jiko unless cash is an issue, then go with Boma.

The food at both places is 'spiced' but not 'HOT' spicy, more sweet curry flavors than hot pepper.

as for the dress code I showed up for my ps in a t shirt (reading "tortured artiest" no less) so it's not too strongly enforced.

p.s the monkfish is absolutely amazing at jiko, as is the taste of Africa bread and sauce appetizer