Eat Your Way Around the World at Epcot
As the theme park capital of the world, it’s no surprise that Orlando is a holiday destination full of thrills! There are so many exciting destinations in the region: Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, SeaWorld’s Aquatica and ICON Park barely scratch the surface! However, it’s hard to argue that the region’s go-to location for visitors is Walt Disney World.
With four unique and exciting parks, Walt Disney World is an Orlando location bursting with excitement and adventure! However, it’s not all about thrills here. At Walt Disney’s Epcot, you can explore some of the world’s most vibrant cultures through a combination of themed rides and performances that transport you to new worlds. Perhaps most exciting, however, is how each region has an array of delicious food options inspired by the nations for you to discover! Here, we take a look at some of the coolest, wackiest and tastiest treats you can find on your travels through Walt Disney’s Epcot.
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall – Norway
The Norway section of Walt Disney’s Epcot is one of the most popular places in the park! The main reason is that it is the home of Frozen Ever After, a boat ride dedicated to the hit Disney film. The region itself is a charming location full of warmth and Disney magic, which is evidenced at the Akershus Royal Banquet Hall.
Built like a Disney castle, the interior of the Royal Banquet Hall is a remarkable feast for the senses. The restaurant itself serves a wide range of foods but specialises in Norweigian fare, including imported cheeses, cinnamon rolls and Kjøttkake, a meatball dish.
The Akershus Royal Banquet Hall is more widely known, however, for its Disney princess experiences. Some of the park’s most iconic characters, such as Snow White, Cinderella and Ariel, mingle with diners in this popular dining event. If you are interested in enjoying this experience on your visit, bear in mind that you will need to reserve your place in advance, something you can do 180 days before your visit. If you would like assistance with that or anything else regarding your visit, don’t hesitate to get in contact with us and we’ll be happy to help!
Biergarten Restaurant – Germany
Germany is famous for its hearty cuisine, and the Biergarten Restaurant is a prime example of this. Located in the middle of the German region of Epcot, this is one of the most vibrant eating experiences in the whole park! Outdoor dining benches sit under charming old lampposts, while live entertainment brings the noise to this expansive treat.
Of course, the food lives up to the vibrant nature of Biergarten Restaurant. Feast on an authentic German buffet including bratwurst, pork schnitzel and a variety of cheeses and salads in this Oktoberfest-style celebration.
La Cava del Tequila – Mexico
The Mexico region of Epcot is an Aztec-inspired world of bright music and even brighter eateries! There is a range of restaurants and dining experiences here, full of classic Mexican favourites such as tacos and churros. However, if you’re looking for something a little lighter, then why not check out the charming Cava del Tequila?
As the name implies, this location is all about Mexico’s famous alcoholic beverage. Sample around 200 varieties of tequila, along with other alcoholic drinks from the region. You can enjoy tapas favourites with your drinks in this location full of Mexican style!
It’s worth noting that this place is themed towards a more adult audience. If you are enjoying Epcot with kids, consider visiting the nearby Cantina de San Angel, boasting fabulous views over World Showcase Lagoon and an expansive Mexican menu suited to all ages.
Le Cellier Steakhouse – Canada
Situated in a grand building at the heart of Epcot’s Canada region, Le Cellier Steakhouse is one of the park’s best locations for fine dining. Designed like a château’s wine cellar, the restaurant is a warm blend of deep red woods and sandstone walls that transports you into the chillier climates north of the border.
Most of the food in this location is very pricey, with the headline steaks costing over $50. However, the prime cuts are some of the finest you’ll come across. Meanwhile, their signature poutine (French fries covered in cheese) is a more reasonably-priced lunchtime option for those wanting to experience this beautiful location.
L'Artisan des Glaces – France
The French region of Epcot is a must-visit, full of charming decorations and a replica Eiffel Tower. If you’re passing through, one place you must check out is L’Artisan des Glaces, a small, old-fashioned ice cream parlour hidden away from the hustle and bustle of Walt Disney World.
Serving a wide range of ice creams and sorbets throughout the day, this small store is the perfect place for a pitstop. Relax with a scoop of your favourite flavour or try something new, such as their macaron ice cream sandwiches. This picturesque location is also perfect for those family photos or Instagram shots!
Fife & Drum Tavern – America
Of course, Epcot wouldn’t be complete without some authentic American flavour, and the Fife & Drum Tavern serves it in abundance! A place celebrating all things USA, you can enjoy a collection of the nation’s most famous dishes; including hot dogs, turkey legs and pretzels!
Lotus Blossom Café – China
The China region of Epcot is a real feast for the senses. The Temple of Heaven rises above a zone full of geographical features, while performances like the Jeweled Dragon Acrobats make it one of the most popular places to visit! In such a beautiful region, it’s no surprise that there are plenty of places to enjoy local favourites and the Lotus Blossom Café is the perfect place.
A small eatery overlooking the Temple of Heaven, this colourful diner is full of Chinese décor and good food to match. Enjoy classics such as orange chicken, beef noodles and vegetarian stir fry in this authentic environment. You can also try caramel and ginger or lychee-flavoured ice creams along with Chinese tea or draft beers.
Spice Road Table – Morocco
If you’re looking to discover something completely unique during your visit to Epcot, then consider the Morocco region! While there are no headline rides or attractions here, it is another vibrant region that stays true to the nation’s culture and cuisine.
Spice Road Table is a stunning, Arabian-themed dining experience that is ideal for both quick snacks and evening dining. Their menu is full of regional classics such as lamb sliders, but also serves a more extensive Meditteranean cuisine, including fish and vegetables.
This restaurant is one of the best places for dining at night, thanks to its views over the lagoon. Enjoy the nightly fireworks extravaganza, Epcot Forever, from their excellent vantage point, a wonderful accompaniment to your Moroccan experience.
Teppan Edo – Japan
Japan is a nation famous for its exciting cuisine, and its region at Epcot hosts a selection of restaurants highlighting this in all its forms. For something a little more amazing, however, check out Teppan Edo. A celebration of classic teppanyaki cooking, here you will enjoy table service with a difference as chefs cook for you directly at your table!
A wide range of Japanese favourites are served in this modern, sleek-looking restaurant; including fish, meats, vegetables and, of course, sushi! Marvel as you watch professionals create wonderful meals in front of your eyes, and make sure you finish your experience with one of their delightful mousses.
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria – Italy
High on the list of choices for most kids, the Via Napoli in Epcot’s Italian region serves all your family favourites. Styled as a beautifully-open, bright Italian villa, this is a lively restaurant and also one of the most popular in Epcot, so booking in advance is recommended!
Via Napoli’s menu is full of classic Italian dishes, from salads and soups to calamari and fish. However, the headline attraction is their pizzas. The restaurant serves authentic wood-fired Pizza Napoletana with all your favourite toppings. While slightly more pricey than your average pizza (a large Margherita costs just under $30), this award-winning location serves some of the finest pizzas you’ll find in Orlando!
Yorkshire County Fish Shop – United Kingdom
If you’re craving home favourites, never fear, as Epcot’s United Kingdom region has you covered! The Rose and Crown Pub is the perfect place to relax and enjoy some light bites, but for something more check out the Yorkshire County Fish Shop. Specialising in one of Britain’s finest culinary exports, it is the perfect place for a snack or quick evening meal before exploring the park.
This small eatery only serves fish and chips when it comes to their main meal. However, you can also treat yourself to a dessert of Victoria Sponge or a cup of Twining’s Tea!
Discover Epcot’s Food and Wine Festival
If you’re ever visiting Walt Disney World between September and November, then it’s likely you’ll be able to enjoy Epcot’s annual Food and Wine Festival! During this time, even more unique and exciting food stalls and events take place across the park, including cooking classes and celebrity chef experiences. You’ll also come across additional regional delights from places such as Africa, Brazil, India and many more!
There are countless exciting eating experiences across Epcot – the only thing stopping you is the size of your appetite! If you have any dining requirements, many of the places featured above are happy to accommodate, so long as you contact them with your needs.
Here at Debbie’s Villas, we’ve been helping people have the holiday of a lifetime in Orlando for many years! We offer a range of villas near Disney World along with well-priced tickets for all the attractions. If you would like to know more about our accommodation options, why not browse our site or get in contact with our friendly team?