Nestled on the second floor of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the Tambu Lounge is a beloved destination for fans of tiki culture and those searching for a relaxing escape from the theme park crowds.
While its main menu features iconic tropical drinks and savory bites, seasoned visitors know there’s even more magic to uncover. The Tambu Lounge secret menu is a treasure trove of hidden beverages and off-menu eats, waiting for adventurous guests to discover.
“I never knew there were so many creative drinks off the menu! The bartenders at Tambu Lounge always surprise me with something new and fun.”
– Frequent Polynesian Resort Guest
What is the Tambu Lounge Secret Menu?
The secret menu at Tambu Lounge isn’t listed on any signage or printed menu. Instead, it’s a collection of off-menu drinks and dishes known by word-of-mouth, regulars, and the skilled bartenders behind the bar.
Whether you’re seeking a twist on classic tiki cocktails or a nostalgic Disney treat, the secret menu lets you personalize your experience and savor unique flavors unavailable to the average guest.
Many of the items are inspired by retired classics, bartender inventions, or Polynesian Resort traditions. Some even pay homage to extinct attractions or legendary Disney drinks, making the secret menu a living testament to the resort’s rich history.
How to Order from the Secret Menu
Ordering from the secret menu is part of the fun! Approach your bartender with a friendly smile and let them know you’re interested in exploring off-menu options.
Some bartenders have their own specialties, while others can whip up classics if you mention their names. Don’t be shy about asking for recommendations—your bartender may have a new creation you’ve never heard of!
If you want a specific drink, try referencing its name or ingredients. The bartenders at Tambu Lounge are renowned for their hospitality and creativity, and they delight in crafting special concoctions for those in the know.
Secret Menu Drinks You Have to Try
While the official drink list is full of tropical favorites, the secret menu offers a whole new world of flavors. Here are some of the most legendary—and delicious—secret sips you’ll find at Tambu Lounge:
| Drink Name | Description | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Backscratcher (Enhanced) | A twist on the classic, often made with a floater of dark rum and a splash of tropical juices, garnished with a wooden backscratcher. | Ask for “extra tropical” for a fruitier version. |
| Lapu Lapu (Secret Recipe) | a blend of premium rums, fresh citrus, and a touch of spice, served in a hollowed-out pineapple. | Request “old school style” for a stronger pour. |
| Island Sunset | A layered cocktail featuring passion fruit, pineapple, and coconut with a float of dark rum for dramatic color. | Great for photos—order at sunset for the full effect. |
| Zombie | A potent, multi-rum tiki classic with citrus, apricot brandy, and secret syrups. | Limit 2 per guest due to strength! |
| Polynesian Pearl | Once exclusive to Trader Sam’s, this creamy, coconutty cocktail is a hidden gem at Tambu. | Ask for “the pearl” for a surprise presentation. |
| Pog Juice Margarita | A tropical take on the classic margarita, using the resort’s legendary POG juice (passion fruit, orange, guava) as a mixer. | Pair with a sweet treat for a perfect combo. |
| Tiki Torch | Spicy, sweet, and smoky—made with spiced rum, pineapple, and a hint of jalapeño. | For adventurous palates; ask for extra spice! |
| Banana Cabana (Throwback) | A retro frozen favorite, blending banana, coconut, and rum for a creamy delight. | Great for hot Florida afternoons. |
| Hidden Hibiscus | Floral and tart, this pink drink features hibiscus syrup, lime, and vodka. | Request as a mocktail for a non-alcoholic treat. |
Classic Disney-Inspired Concoctions
Some secret menu drinks are inspired by Disney parks lore. The Kungaloosh, for example, was a cult favorite at the now-closed Adventurers Club.
At Tambu Lounge, bartenders occasionally honor this legacy by mixing up a version with rum, strawberry, and pineapple. Similarly, the Monorail Yellow is a playful nod to Disney transportation, featuring citrus liqueurs and a bright yellow hue.
Secret Bites and Off-Menu Eats
While Tambu Lounge is primarily known for its drinks, those in the know can sometimes snag off-menu bites to accompany their cocktails. The kitchen shares space with ‘Ohana, the resort’s signature restaurant, leading to some tasty crossover treats.
| Secret Dish | Description | How to Order |
|---|---|---|
| Ohana Bread Pudding | Warm, gooey bread pudding served with bananas foster sauce and vanilla ice cream—a Disney legend. | Ask for “Ohana bread pudding to go” (subject to availability). |
| Sticky Wings | Sweet and savory chicken wings glazed with a Polynesian-inspired sauce. | Request “Ohana wings” at the bar; best during slow hours. |
| Pineapple-Coconut Bread | Soft, sweet bread with tropical flavors, sometimes served as a side. | Check with your server—availability varies. |
| Cheeseburger Spring Rolls | Crispy rolls filled with seasoned beef and cheese, a rare bar snack. | Ask if the kitchen can make a special order. |
Not every secret item is available at all times, but don’t hesitate to ask. The worst you’ll hear is a polite “not today,” and you might just get lucky!
Some guests have even reported surprise off-menu treats delivered on special occasions or after making friends with the staff.
Why Try the Secret Menu?
The thrill of the secret menu lies in its exclusivity and the personal touch it brings to your visit. Each drink or bite comes with a story—perhaps a nod to Disney history, a bartender’s creative flair, or a guest’s favorite custom order.
Savoring something that isn’t on the official menu makes your experience at Tambu Lounge feel truly one-of-a-kind.
“We ordered an off-menu Lapu Lapu and the bartender told us the story behind the drink. It made our night feel extra special!”
– Disney Vacationer
Tips for the Best Secret Menu Experience
- Be Polite and Friendly: Bartenders love enthusiastic guests, especially those eager to try something new. Courtesy goes a long way!
- Visit During Off-Peak Hours: When the lounge is less crowded, bartenders have more time for custom creations and may be more likely to accommodate special requests.
- Ask for Recommendations: Some of the best drinks aren’t even named—let your bartender surprise you based on your flavor preferences.
- Share Your Experience: If you discover a new favorite, let others know! The secret menu evolves through guest stories and creativity.
Hidden History: The Evolution of Tambu’s Secret Menu
Tambu Lounge’s secret menu has evolved alongside the resort itself. When the Polynesian first opened in 1971, the lounge was a quiet retreat for guests and cast members alike.
Over the decades, it became a hotspot for Disney insiders, who began requesting “lost” drinks from retired bars or creating new twists on classic recipes.
Some secret menu selections honor extinct Disney bars, like the Adventurers Club and Top of the World Lounge. Others are nods to international tiki culture or the creative spirit of the bartenders themselves.
As Disney’s cocktail scene has blossomed, so too have the secret offerings behind Tambu’s bar.
Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Secret Menu Options
Tambu Lounge isn’t just for those seeking a buzz. The bartenders are adept at creating non-alcoholic versions of classic and secret menu drinks, making the experience inclusive for all ages.
| Mocktail Name | Description | Best Pairing |
|---|---|---|
| Virgin Pog Margarita | POG juice, lime, and a splash of soda, served in a salted glass. | Ohana Bread Pudding |
| Hibiscus Cooler | Hibiscus syrup, lemonade, and club soda for a floral, refreshing sip. | Sticky Wings |
| Sunset Splash | Pineapple, orange, and grenadine layered for a beautiful sunrise effect. | Pineapple-Coconut Bread |
| Coconut Cream Freeze | Coconut cream, vanilla syrup, and crushed ice, blended until frothy. | Cheeseburger Spring Rolls |
Just ask your bartender for a “mocktail version,” and they’ll create something special. These drinks are perfect for kids, designated drivers, or anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of the tropics without alcohol.
Seasonal and Limited-Time Secrets
The secret menu isn’t static. Certain times of the year—like the holidays, Halloween, or special Disney events—bring limited-time secret offerings.
Past favorites have included pumpkin-spiced tiki drinks, Christmas-themed cocktails with coconut snow, and even glow-in-the-dark “Haunted Mansion” mixes during spooky season.
Keep an eye out for seasonal garnishes, unique glassware, and surprise treats. Sometimes, the only way to know what’s available is to ask your bartender what’s new that day!
Can You Order Secret Drinks To-Go?
Disney’s policies on to-go alcohol can change, but during certain times (especially in recent years), guests have been able to order select Tambu Lounge drinks in portable cups. Secret menu items may be available to-go at the bartender’s discretion, especially for drinks like the Backscratcher or Banana Cabana.
For food, staples like the Ohana Bread Pudding are often offered to go, making them a perfect late-night treat for your resort room.
Pairing Drinks and Eats: Secret Combos
For the ultimate experience, try pairing secret menu drinks with off-menu bites. The sweet, tropical notes of a Pog Juice Margarita perfectly complement the rich flavors of sticky wings, while the creamy Polynesian Pearl is a natural match for Ohana bread pudding.
| Drink | Food | Why it Works |
|---|---|---|
| Island Sunset | Cheeseburger Spring Rolls | Sweet, citrusy notes offset the savory, cheesy filling. |
| Hidden Hibiscus (Mocktail) | Pineapple-Coconut Bread | Floral, tart flavors enhance the bread’s tropical sweetness. |
| Zombie | Sticky Wings | Bold, spicy wings stand up to this strong tiki classic. |
| Lapu Lapu | Ohana Bread Pudding | Rum and pineapple in the drink echo the dessert’s flavors. |
Making the Most of Your Visit
To fully enjoy the Tambu Lounge secret menu, plan your visit during slower times—late afternoon before dinner crowds, or late evening after the dinner rush. Take a seat at the bar to interact directly with the bartenders, who are the true keepers of the secret menu magic.
Don’t forget to explore the lounge’s atmosphere. The Polynesian decor, gentle ukulele music, and views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks create a relaxing and immersive setting for your secret menu adventure.
Bringing the Magic Home: DIY Secret Recipes
Can’t get enough of the secret menu? Many fans have tried to replicate Tambu Lounge favorites at home.
Here’s a simplified take on a classic inspired by the secret menu:
DIY Backscratcher Cocktail
2 oz gold rum
1 oz dark rum
3 oz pineapple juice
1 oz orange juice
0.5 oz grenadine
Shake with ice and strain into a tall glass. Garnish with an orange slice and, if you can find one, a wooden backscratcher!
Part of the appeal is the atmosphere and service at Tambu Lounge, but experimenting at home can help you relive those magical moments until your next visit.
Final Thoughts: The True Spirit of the Secret Menu
The Tambu Lounge secret menu is more than just hidden drinks and snacks—it’s a celebration of creativity, nostalgia, and the Disney spirit of discovery. Whether you’re a die-hard Disney fan or a casual visitor, exploring the secret menu adds an extra layer of fun and personalization to your vacation.
Next time you visit Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, pull up a chair at Tambu Lounge, chat with your bartender, and dare to order off-menu. You never know what delicious surprises await!
Have a favorite Tambu Lounge secret menu story or discovery? Share your experiences with fellow Disney fans and help keep the spirit of adventure alive!
