We started our “Dinner and Show” tour by visiting Pirates Dinner Adventure in Buena Park. We were pleasantly surprised. The show was a delight and the food was good. 

We started by posing for a photo op behind the helm of a ship. You can pick some props from a basket – mainly different style captain and pirate hats - and be as serious or as silly as you like. You get to see the result at your table and decide whether to buy it – no pressure. The main reception hall is large and it has 2 bars and a gift shop. While you wait, you are served appetizers (included in the admission price). 

We came in late so we only got to try the Mozzarella sticks and the Mini Tacos. They were both delicious. 

The adults ordered Margaritas in a large decorative glass that you get to keep. The price is steep, but you are really paying for the glass. If you are so inclined, you can get refills for half the original price.

While we were sipping our margaritas and enjoying the snacks, the pre-show started. It is basically a setup for the main show and a quick introduction to the actors. 

I am going to avoid giving too much detail about the pre-show and main show so I won’t spoil the surprises for you.

When the pre-show is done you will be escorted by your pirate to your dinner table.

Once inside, you will come face to face with a huge replica of an 18th-century Spanish galleon anchored in a 250,000-gallon indoor lagoon. The seats are arranged stadium-style around this stage, so everyone can have a good view of the action.

The main show was great and interactive. Lots of sword and gunfights, acrobatics, high jumps and dives - and a mutiny. Also to settle a dispute between pirates the captain announces races.  

Three members of my family were selected to participate in one of the races. A lot of children were selected from other sections to participate too. They were thrilled to be pirates for a day.

The actors were good and entertaining. They engaged the audience and were funny. 

The servers start serving your meal right away while you are enjoying the show. You get a salad or soup. I had vegetable soup and enjoyed it. My wife had the salad and it was a good garden salad. We had a choice of half roasted seasoned chicken or ham for the main course. We picked the chicken and it was well cooked and tasty. The chicken plate comes with rice and vegetables. The ham plate comes with stuffing.

We especially liked the dessert which was bread pudding with baked apples and ice cream (they just call it Apple Cobbler al a mode). You also get a soft drink of your choice (included) or you can order mixed drinks from the bar. 

Our server was friendly and attentive. We did not have to ask for refills – he kept them coming.

All in all it was a very good way to spend an evening away from home and away from the ordinary restaurant. It is a good start to our planned Dinner Theater Safari. 

Regular ticket prices are $57 for adults (ages 12 and older). You can purchase an upgrade to guarantee first rows seating. 

See more details about this adventure at www.piratesdinneradventureca.com.

7600 Beach Boulevard,

Buena Park, CA 90620

714-690-1497

866-439-2469