The aloha spirit

When thinking about sandwiches at Walt Disney World, the mind immediately wanders in the direction of hamburgers and hot dogs. While there are top-tier versions of both that can be found throughout the parks and resorts, there are also plenty of options for those looking for something a bit different between two slices of bread. My personal favorite, and newly discovered, sandwich resides in Captain Cook’s in the Polynesian Resort.

The Aloha Pork Sandwich grabbed me when I first read it off of the menu board, and even though there was not a description of the sandwich, I could not think of anything to order on the dreary night I happened into Captain Cook’s. When I opened the box up, however, I was taken aback. I had assumed there would be a sweet element, likely pineapple, associated with the Aloha Pork, but to see the shredded pork smothered by tomato and cucumber was almost too much to bear! I begrudgingly took a single bite, incorporating every element of the mammoth sandwich, and was overwhelmed by the flavorful explosion. It did not take long to devour the rest of the sandwich.The pulled pork is fall apart tender and mixed with a zippy sauce and pineapple. Meanwhile, the cucumber adds just enough of a snap to each mighty mouthful. The tomato is juicy and has the right amount of acid to balance out the sweet found elsewhere in the Aloha Pork Sandwich. The genius concoction is situated on a warm, hearty bun. Either of the available sides, Asian Vegetable Slaw and Polynesian Chips, ensures a well rounded meal of flavors, but my personal preference is the Asian vegetable slaw.

I have munched my way though plenty of hot and cold sandwiches, burgers, and hot dogs in Walt Disney World. Some of them I seek out again and again, some I shy away from, and a few leave no lasting impression either way. When it comes to the Aloha Pork Sandwich, it is without a doubt one of my favorite sandwiches found anywhere on property. Do yourself a favor, even if it means a special trip over to the Polynesian Resort, and pick this sandwich up for yourself.