EPCOT is one of the four theme parks at the Disney World resort. It focuses on technological innovation and the different cultures of the world. Each country is represented appropriately through the buildings, food, attractions, and overall scenery. Whether you’re in Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Morocco, Japan, America, Italy, Germany, China, Norway, or Mexico, you’ll feel like you’re in a secluded country.
France
France was our first stop, and we went on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, which is a 3D ride through the restaurant. I had to get a quick bite to eat after, and stopped by Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie for a Jambon Beurre (Ham, Cheese, and Dijon Mustard on a Demi Baguette) and a glass of champagne. Even though the sandwich was simple, it was amazing (and one of my favorite meals at the park).
Japan
Teppan Edo
Japan was also another beautiful stop. Their sake was fairly strong (great for its cost!), but the Tokyo Sunset was sweet. We had a reservation at Teppan Edo, which is a table service dining experience that features a chef cooking on the Teppanyaki grill in front of an audience. Chef Mina was amazing with her flipping skills, conversations, and cooking our dishes. I ordered the steak with scallops on the side. The steak was delicious, but I was a bigger fan of the scallops. This is a great dining experience if you have a group.
Italy
Crying because Italy made me miss… Italy. The statue and surroundings were pretty cool, and the pizza from Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria was definitely giving the pizza shops in Rome.
Italy has other dining experiences, including Tutto Italia Ristorante, Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar, and Gelateria Toscana. Expect pasta, pizza, wine, gelato, and all that Italia has to offer.
China
In China, you can find the Nine Dragons Restaurant, Lotus Blossom Cafe, and Joy of Tea. I bought a Lychee Cha Cha, which has oolong tea, lychee syrup, and a shot of vodka. I would recommend skipping this – it tasted more like tea than anything.
Mexico
Mexico features a historic pyramid. Within the pyramid, we found La Cava del Tequila Bar, which has a very comprehensive cocktails and hard liquor menu. Of course, we tried the La Cava Avocado (Tromba Blanco tequila, melon liqueur, fresh avocado, and lime juice. Served frozen with hibiscus salt rim). This was interesting, because it tasted like a spiked avocado smoothie. This is an iconic drink, but don’t expect to get any buzz. The churros, however… Were super cute and delicious! A great snack!
The Adventures at EPCOT
The best ride at EPCOT is the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind. This ride takes you through several rooms (like Tower of Terror/Haunted Mansion) before boarding the ride. The ride felt thrilling, like Space Mountain, but better where the cart actually spins. I felt my age was coming with the ride, throwing my lower back around. You might have to purchase a Lightning Pass for this ride.
Test Track was pretty fun, where you customize a car to race against other guests’ designs. This was a great way to keep the guests entertained while waiting to board the ride.
Spaceship Earth is also a great attraction, within the iconic giant golf ball. It will take you through the innovations over time.
EPCOT is my favorite park in the Disney World Resort. There’s food everywhere (that’s not popcorn and chips), and Guardians of the Galaxy was the best ride among all parks. Expect all mixed alcoholic drinks to be fairly weak. There have been debates on whether you should start in Mexico or Canada… I understand saving Mexico for last, but you don’t have to drink everything. We have beer everywhere. Look for what’s not as accessible in your everyday life. If you’re looking for something strong, I found the champagne in France, wine in Italy, sake in Japan, and hard liquor in Mexico being hard hitters. Otherwise, drink responsibly because no one enjoys a public drunk.
This blog post is part of my Disney World series.
