Many people rave about Flame Tree Barbecue at Animal Kingdom, but the menu never really struck me. I’ve only been there for Onion Rings in the past, which are quite good, and a Mandarin Orange Lemonade I spotted a few months ago. I’m not really a fan of ribs, but I decided to give them a try even though Matt wasn’t with me to pick up my slack. 
The ½ Order Slab of St. Louis Ribs come with a side of Coleslaw and Baked Beans.
The ribs did have a good bark to them that was a little bit crispy, but the meat itself wasn’t the most tender. It took a bit of work to get the meat off the bone, and they were a bit on the fatty side. Their flavor was okay, and they definitely benefited from their two barbecue sauces served at the condiment station.
Sweet & Spicy Barbecue Sauce and Regular Barbecue Sauce
The coleslaw wasn’t anything special, but well prepared with just enough mayonnaise and had a good crunch.
I can’t stand baked beans, primarily because the texture of the beans always seems mealy, but I was brave and gave these a try. Flavor-wise, they weren’t bad and the sauce was a bit spicy. There was pulled pork in the beans as well. Still, one bite was plenty for me.
I also had to order their onion rings that I enjoyed so much the last time I had them. They didn’t disappoint! They were piping hot and crispy, with soft onions inside.
Here’s a look at the menu:
Overall, I wouldn’t order the ribs again for myself. If Matt wanted them, I’d try a few bites to see if maybe the next time they are more tender. Ribs aren’t a favorite food of mine, but I do try them just to see how they are at different restaurants when Matt orders them. With the addition of the barbecue sauce, they are better. The coleslaw is well made and even the baked beans surprised me! And, of course, you gotta order the onion rings!
What are your top picks at Flame Tree Barbecue? Let us know!
It’s been a while since I’ve eaten at Flame Tree (mostly because I’m so busy watching the animals I don’t really think of it until it’s so crowded that I just don’t want to go there lol) but I really liked their bbq chicken more than the ribs. And the onion rings. Yum.
I’m with you! My BIL raves about them but to me they were too tough and not worth the mess! I like the pulled pork sandwich and the barbeque chicken salad.
I’m not a ribs person either…. My partner is but I don’t think he would enjoy those based on the pictures and your report…
Cherry – I’ll have to try the chicken next time, or the combo platter for Matt and I to split so he can have the ribs!
Fran – I’ve heard that the quality has gone down over the years and they’re a lot tougher than they used to be. But you’re right – nobody wants to be a sticky mess from ribs, especially if it’s hot out!
Our favorite part is all of the hidden seating. You can make your way to the waters edge and be virtually alone and away from the crowds. People and especially those with kids tend to stop at the first empty table.
I usually go straight to the seating by the water with a view of Everest.