Captain Cook’s Specialty Burger At The Polynesian
Whenever a new menu item appears around the Disney parks and resorts, we’re always eager to try them out and give our thoughts. Naturally, we were intrigued by the sign for a “Specialty Burger” from Captain Cook’s at the Polynesian and had to bring you the details.
The description sounded like we could expect a Hawaiian-inspired burger. According to the sign, this burger is topped with spiced ham, grilled pineapple, Gouda cheese, and teriyaki mayonnaise. The picture on the sign shows a bountiful burger for $14.99.
Unfortunately, the burger looked a little disappointing when it arrived. There was a wad of arugula that looked wet and sad. The burger would definitely taste fine without these. They add nothing to the flavor or appearance.
The spiced ham was very salty and didn’t contribute anything to the burger. It wasn’t very good, so we removed it before we were finished.
Grilled pineapple, Gouda cheese, and teriyaki mayonnaise saved the whole burger. Lose the ham and the soggy arugula, and the whole meal improves.
Captain Cook’s “Specialty Burger” is edible, but not worth ordering again. It’s pretty average. There are much better offerings to choose from on the menu. Fans of ham and pineapple might want to give it a try, but don’t expect to be impressed.
Specialty burgers have been hit or miss lately around Walt Disney World. Check out our review of the Beignet Burger at Port Orleans French Quarter here.
Looks like arugula leaves, which are usually a wonderful flavor punch. Maybe they just got lost with all the other stuff going on!
That’s what I thought too, arugula. Also, “spiced ham” is a nod to the classic Spam used frequently in Hawaii, maybe not on burgers, but it does appear on things like the plate lunches. To me, the gouda was the only thing that wasn’t Hawaiian, but hey: cheese!
I once had a Teriyaki burger at the Dole sponsored eatery at MK that had a grilled pineapple, and recall it being very good – that was about 40 years ago and I never saw it available again. Disney kitchens should look into that version.