Trader Sam's Grog Grotto

[Mainemom23]

Thinking of going to Trader Sam's for a date night on our upcoming trip in November (family will be watching our three kids) and we are staying at the Poly. Can anyone offer any tips - is it very busy (do we need to get there at 4:00 or so, or does it not matter anymore)? Any food for drink recommendations? TIA!!

 

[RRB]

Most days it is very busy. The inside seating is limited. If you want to sit inside, be there at or before 4:00. Outside seating is easier to get

 

[GADisneyDad14]

I've been several times on various trips since it opened, most recently this past July. In my experience the crowds on the inside part are inconsistent and unpredictable. One day around 5PM it was just us and two other tables. Two days later around the same time we needed a pager (three people ahead of us). The outdoor part has never been crowded in my experience.

I'd go whenever it works in your schedule. If it's full, just grab a pager and grab a drink in the outside part. Sometimes they have live music outisde. Relax and enjoy the view! I suspect the wait might not be too long, but if it is, the outside is a great place to chill.

 

[hollyrose1313]

We just went tonight and had no problem getting in immediately with seats at the bar, however when we left at 10:15 it seemed like there were many people waiting to get in.

 

[Mainemom23]

Thanks everyone for your info! Can't wait to go check it out first hand -- 35 more days!!

 

[tony67]

Just be aware it is first come first serve- so it is possible there will be two seats and they will let you in, but the two seats may not even be together.

I did see a few couples walk in and out because the seats were not even remotely close.

You may also have to sit at a 4 top with others - and of course there are seats around the surfboard as well at a communal table.

Anyway it is well worth doing...just be aware it is impossible to predict how busy it may or may not be