The roast beef sandwich was excellent, fresh and not greasy at all. Service was excellent. The host was friendly and accommodating, and the server was always checking on the table. The view was amazing, and the place was relaxing and quiet.Kid-friendliness: There is a green area where kids could play around while waiting for their food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Beef and Cheese Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich
Savannah, our server, was absolutely incredible. She was kind and patient with us as we situated our toddlers in. We saw 6 rhino resting on the hill while we ate! It was a perfect lunch! Can't wait to go back!
Ashley
The food was okay, I wish they had more food items. But the ‘crème brûlée” cheesecake is not crème brûlée, it's just a regular cheesecake with strawberry drizzle, definitely not a crème brûlée topping. They should change the description.
LizR
The Watering Hole was a cool place, with a view of the entire valley below. The staff was slow, we made reservations and it felt like they were short on staff or not organized. The food was good in taste and value. Paying the bill took way to long, we received the check, and immediately gave the waitress my credit card, a gift card from Safari Park and my Membership Card what gives a discount. It took 15 minutes to the waitress to come back and said she was sorry for the long wait, but they (managers and her) had a hard time figuring it out the balance. The should had been trained better or had a cheat sheet if this happens again.
PKParker
We love this place because of the view! I ordered an open-face tuna melt with bacon and it looked as though raw pieces of bacon were placed under the tuna salad then the sandwich was tossed in an oven -- the cheese melted, the tuna salad was warm and the bread crisp -- but the bacon didn't cook and it was disgusting. That said, I will continue to visit this restaurant whenever I visit the Safari Park and just order something different, because the view alone is totally worth it!
gails
Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Park (SDZWAP), The Watering Hole offers a dining experience unlike any other. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an ambiance that seamlessly blends the charm of nature with the comforts of modern dining. The restaurant boasts views of the surrounding wildlife and you'll find yourself immersed in the sights and sounds of the park, creating a truly memorable dining atmosphere. As for the cuisine, The Watering Hole delivers a delightful array of dishes that cater to all tastes. From hearty burgers and sandwiches to fresh salads and there's something on the menu for everyone. One of the highlights of dining at The Watering Hole is the opportunity to enjoy your meal while watching the giraffes, rhinos and Cape buffalo go about their day. In addition to its delectable cuisine and stunning views, The Watering Hole also prides itself on its attentive service and welcoming atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. Overall, dining at The Watering Hole is an experience not to be missed. Whether you're visiting the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Park or simply looking for a unique dining destination, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of delicious food, breathtaking views, and unforgettable memories.
NicoleS
I love this restaurant. It's such a unique experience getting to look over the savannah as you dine. We ate there yesterday and our server was very kind. But they definitely needed more staff. We could tell that all the staff were overwhelmed and a bit frazzled. Everyone was doing their best. I also would recommend more vegetarian options as there is only one right now (the asparagus pasta which is very good!). I find it ironic that the Safari Park puts forth so many resources to save even just 1 animal and then it's hard to find a cruelty-free meal option.
Made reservation and seated about 15 min later Reservations are pretty much mandatory or plan on a 2-3 hour wait in the midafternoon The person seating us was outstanding and did his best The restaurant was severely short servers and our server did the best she could under the circumstances The food quality was good but appeared to be quickly thrown together This restaurant is the best food and view in the park
VickiW
Service by Sarah was excellent although it seemed like she was the only waitress working. She was running back and forth to serve several tables. Our food was prepared exactly as ordered. It was a very busy day at the Safari Park and if there had been more servers, more people could have been served. Many people were turned away even though there were over 10 tables that never had guests seated during the 1 1/2 hours that I was there with my guests.
DennyCraneEsq
The Watering Hole is the best restaurant in the park. The food is very good, the service is attentive, though stretched a bit at lunch time. The view is amazing, with rhinos to close by on one side, giraffes down below, and antelopes. You will need reservations.
Our family had a lovely time here! We had a beautiful view with great food and drinks for the price. Our littles loved their kid's meals, and we felt very welcomed overall. I highly suggest making a reservation ahead of time. 10/10 would dine again!
KristineR
It was nothing special as I expected. My pulled pork was a little dry, had to put extra barbecue sauce on and my husband's pasta dish was just OK. Our server Savannah was very accomodating and the view is terrific.
I absolutely loved this restaurant! My fiancé and mother in law loved it as well. The view alone, is worth everything! As you eat, you can clearly see giraffes, and rhinos and other fascinating animals freely roam and it is a one of a kind experience! The food is good and very well priced, and the service is fantastic. I will definitely be returning, just be sure to make a reservation ASAP if you're visiting the park, as reservations are limited. There is also a bar, and ample seating, so it is very comfortable.
Cheo
Unfortunately the food and service has gone down tremendously. I have eaten there regularly for many years and always bring my friends because regardless of the food and service,the view is really priceless. It's my idea of what Africa looks like. You see so many animals roaming around. The view is always changing as the different herds move about..
PamS
Food, service and ambiance were great. Best to make a reservation, which we did, because even though it looked only about 1/3 full, they were turning away walk-ins. Said they were short staffed.
The roast beef sandwich was excellent, fresh and not greasy at all. Service was excellent. The host was friendly and accommodating, and the server was always checking on the table. The view was amazing, and the place was relaxing and quiet.Kid-friendliness: There is a green area where kids could play around while waiting for their food.
Atmosphere: 5
Food: 5
Service: 5
Recommended dishes: Beef and Cheese Sandwich, Pulled Pork Sandwich
Savannah, our server, was absolutely incredible. She was kind and patient with us as we situated our toddlers in. We saw 6 rhino resting on the hill while we ate! It was a perfect lunch! Can't wait to go back!
The food was okay, I wish they had more food items. But the ‘crème brûlée” cheesecake is not crème brûlée, it's just a regular cheesecake with strawberry drizzle, definitely not a crème brûlée topping. They should change the description.
The Watering Hole was a cool place, with a view of the entire valley below. The staff was slow, we made reservations and it felt like they were short on staff or not organized. The food was good in taste and value. Paying the bill took way to long, we received the check, and immediately gave the waitress my credit card, a gift card from Safari Park and my Membership Card what gives a discount. It took 15 minutes to the waitress to come back and said she was sorry for the long wait, but they (managers and her) had a hard time figuring it out the balance. The should had been trained better or had a cheat sheet if this happens again.
We love this place because of the view! I ordered an open-face tuna melt with bacon and it looked as though raw pieces of bacon were placed under the tuna salad then the sandwich was tossed in an oven -- the cheese melted, the tuna salad was warm and the bread crisp -- but the bacon didn't cook and it was disgusting. That said, I will continue to visit this restaurant whenever I visit the Safari Park and just order something different, because the view alone is totally worth it!
Nestled within the picturesque landscape of the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Park (SDZWAP), The Watering Hole offers a dining experience unlike any other. From the moment you step inside, you're greeted by an ambiance that seamlessly blends the charm of nature with the comforts of modern dining. The restaurant boasts views of the surrounding wildlife and you'll find yourself immersed in the sights and sounds of the park, creating a truly memorable dining atmosphere. As for the cuisine, The Watering Hole delivers a delightful array of dishes that cater to all tastes. From hearty burgers and sandwiches to fresh salads and there's something on the menu for everyone. One of the highlights of dining at The Watering Hole is the opportunity to enjoy your meal while watching the giraffes, rhinos and Cape buffalo go about their day. In addition to its delectable cuisine and stunning views, The Watering Hole also prides itself on its attentive service and welcoming atmosphere. The staff are friendly and knowledgeable, always ready to offer recommendations or answer any questions you may have. Overall, dining at The Watering Hole is an experience not to be missed. Whether you're visiting the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Park or simply looking for a unique dining destination, this restaurant offers a perfect blend of delicious food, breathtaking views, and unforgettable memories.
I love this restaurant. It's such a unique experience getting to look over the savannah as you dine. We ate there yesterday and our server was very kind. But they definitely needed more staff. We could tell that all the staff were overwhelmed and a bit frazzled. Everyone was doing their best. I also would recommend more vegetarian options as there is only one right now (the asparagus pasta which is very good!). I find it ironic that the Safari Park puts forth so many resources to save even just 1 animal and then it's hard to find a cruelty-free meal option.
Made reservation and seated about 15 min later Reservations are pretty much mandatory or plan on a 2-3 hour wait in the midafternoon The person seating us was outstanding and did his best The restaurant was severely short servers and our server did the best she could under the circumstances The food quality was good but appeared to be quickly thrown together This restaurant is the best food and view in the park
Service by Sarah was excellent although it seemed like she was the only waitress working. She was running back and forth to serve several tables. Our food was prepared exactly as ordered. It was a very busy day at the Safari Park and if there had been more servers, more people could have been served. Many people were turned away even though there were over 10 tables that never had guests seated during the 1 1/2 hours that I was there with my guests.
The Watering Hole is the best restaurant in the park. The food is very good, the service is attentive, though stretched a bit at lunch time. The view is amazing, with rhinos to close by on one side, giraffes down below, and antelopes. You will need reservations.
Restaurantji Recommends
Our family had a lovely time here! We had a beautiful view with great food and drinks for the price. Our littles loved their kid's meals, and we felt very welcomed overall. I highly suggest making a reservation ahead of time. 10/10 would dine again!
It was nothing special as I expected. My pulled pork was a little dry, had to put extra barbecue sauce on and my husband's pasta dish was just OK. Our server Savannah was very accomodating and the view is terrific.
I absolutely loved this restaurant! My fiancé and mother in law loved it as well. The view alone, is worth everything! As you eat, you can clearly see giraffes, and rhinos and other fascinating animals freely roam and it is a one of a kind experience! The food is good and very well priced, and the service is fantastic. I will definitely be returning, just be sure to make a reservation ASAP if you're visiting the park, as reservations are limited. There is also a bar, and ample seating, so it is very comfortable.
Unfortunately the food and service has gone down tremendously. I have eaten there regularly for many years and always bring my friends because regardless of the food and service,the view is really priceless. It's my idea of what Africa looks like. You see so many animals roaming around. The view is always changing as the different herds move about..
Food, service and ambiance were great. Best to make a reservation, which we did, because even though it looked only about 1/3 full, they were turning away walk-ins. Said they were short staffed.