The Rainforest Café at South Coast Plaza offers far more than simply good food and drinks.  Enjoy a full dining experience that includes entertainment for any age and any interest.  They offer adult entertainment at the bar with streaming sports games along with the many attractions for the younger diners; from the animal wild ‘life’ and simulated storms to the fish acquariums, the décor seems more like an escape into the jungle than a family, friend or birthday outing.

The service was above adequate and any fault was certainly made up for in energy.  Our waitress’ guidance about beverages and entrees to try was additionally helpful.  I was impressed by her ability to multi-task between our table and many of the other families in her area.

To begin the meal, my friend and I ordered the souvenir-sized Cheetah Rita and Panama Punch.  The Cheetah Rita had a nice mixture of sweetness and tartness, and both beverages were complimented by the copious, yet not exorbant, amount of tequila.  The Panama Punch was also a delight to drink, refreshing and sweet witout too much of anything.

Our main courses came rather promptly and in perfect timing, as we’d had enough time to chat a bit and enjoy our beverages.  As my friend had recently become a vegetarian, she ordered the Rainforest Natural (meatless) burger with fries.  To her susprise, she enjoyed the burger greatly and didn’t feel as though she were compromising her tastebuds.  I can attest to the fantastic fries, as I had regretted not ordering them myself.

Nonetheless, my chicken-fried steak was additionally satiating.  Although I had expected a higher grade of beef, the steak was impecably fried; not to the point of it being greasy, but nonetheless full of crunch.  The gravy that accompanied the steak was creamy, flavorful and allowed for a nice contrast to the crispy breading.  With the steak came a side of garlic mashed potatoes and Napa vegetables.  The potatoes had a bit too much garlic to eat on their own, however with a bit of the steak, the combination was scrumptious!  The Napa vegetables was comprised of a broad assortment of colors and flavors, made quite refreshing with the cirtrus dressing.

As we had skipped over an appetizer, we decided to complete our meal with the New York Cheesecake.  To our dismay, we wouldn’t have been able to finish it had we been paid to, as it was so huge.  The strawberry side-sauce was almost as tasty as the real thing and went very well with the creamy taste and texture of the cake.

All in all, I would recommend this restaurant to anyone.  Be it a romantic date, family birthday party or simply a friendly lunch gathering, the Rainforest Café is suited to meet each need!