The Best Dining Experiences at EPCOT in 2025: Where to Eat and What to Try

EPCOT at Walt Disney World is not just a park—it’s a food lover’s paradise. With its incredible variety of dining experiences, there’s something for everyone, from festival-inspired dishes to family-friendly restaurants. Whether you’re here to enjoy a culinary journey around the world or savor seasonal delights, these 8 dining spots at EPCOT are not to be missed in 2025.

8. Arrive Early to Maximize Your Dining Experience

One of the smartest moves a Disney pro can make is arriving at EPCOT when the park opens. Early mornings are the best time to explore the World Celebration, World Discovery, and World Nature neighborhoods before the crowds start to build up.

This is the perfect time to get in line for your favorite rides and grab a bite at some top dining spots before they get crowded.

Attractions like Soarin’, Test Track, and Spaceship Earth often have shorter wait times in the early hours, giving you a head start on your day.

• Tip: Focus on exploring World Celebration and World Discovery, where you can enjoy the park’s most popular attractions and grab a meal early.

  

7. Plan Your Visit During a Festival

EPCOT is famous for its seasonal festivals, each offering something unique. Whether you’re visiting in winter, spring, summer, or fall, there’s always a festival happening that will make your dining experience even more exciting. Each festival brings in special culinary delights, live entertainment, and much more.

• Festival of the Arts (Jan 17 – Feb 24, 2025): This festival brings an array of artistic displays, along with food presentations and performances.

• International Flower & Garden Festival (Mar 5 – Jun 2, 2025): Celebrate the spring season with gorgeous topiaries, live music, and vibrant floral displays.

• International Food & Wine Festival (Aug 28 – Nov 22, 2025): The perfect time to sample global dishes, enjoy live concerts, and indulge in food and drink from around the world.

• Festival of the Holidays (Nov 28 – Dec 30, 2025): A celebration of Christmas, Hanukkah, and other holidays, with special food and holiday-themed entertainment.

These festivals are included with park admission, though some special experiences or merchandise may require an additional charge.

6. Be Prepared for EPCOT’s Size

EPCOT is a massive park, and you’ll be doing a lot of walking. Disney pros know the importance of wearing comfortable shoes and sunscreen to handle the expansive grounds. The size can be overwhelming, but the experience is well worth it.

• Tip: Drink water regularly and take breaks to stay hydrated and avoid fatigue throughout the day.

• Snacks and Refreshments: Don’t forget to stop by L’Artisan des Glaces in the France Pavilion to grab a refreshing ice cream or sorbet to cool off.

5. Take Advantage of Lightning Lane

To make the most of your time, use Lightning Lane, which allows you to skip the standard lines for popular attractions. At EPCOT, some major attractions like Soarin’, Test Track, and Frozen Ever After are included in the Lightning Lane system, so it’s a great way to avoid long wait times and maximize your park time.

• Tip: Secure your Lightning Lane reservations well in advance to avoid wasting time in long lines.

• Pro Tip: Use Lightning Lane for Tier 1 attractions and head to one of the other major rides early before the crowds get larger.

4. Don’t Miss World Showcase

One of the most unique features of EPCOT is the World Showcase, a collection of 11 pavilions that represent different countries from around the globe. Each pavilion offers a variety of food, drinks, and cultural experiences, making it a must-see for any visitor.

Whether you’re interested in the cuisine, architecture, or entertainment, there’s something to discover in every corner.

• Pro Tip: Take time to stroll through the gardens, enjoy the architecture, and chat with the Cast Members who bring each pavilion to life. The food offerings range from sushi in Japan to authentic Italian pizza.

• Must-See: Don’t miss the international snacks, like croissant doughnuts in France or curry chicken pockets in Japan.

  

3. Embrace the Surprises and Stop Often

EPCOT is full of unexpected experiences, and you’ll likely find yourself stopping often to enjoy live performances, snap pictures with characters, or grab a quick snack. Be ready for spontaneity—it’s all part of the magic.

• Tip: Have a plan, but don’t be afraid to veer off it. Some of the best moments come from unplanned discoveries.

• Pro Tip: If you’re visiting with kids, expect plenty of “wow” moments, whether it’s a show, a fun food item, or a hidden Mickey.

2. Drink Responsibly Around the World

EPCOT is known for its wide selection of alcoholic beverages, especially during the International Food & Wine Festival. If you plan to take part in “Drinking Around the World,” be sure to drink responsibly and pace yourself.

• Share drinks with friends to keep things light, and always snack between sips. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.

• Spread the “Drinking Around the World” experience over two or more days to savor each stop while keeping it fun.

1. Plan to Eat Your Way Around the World

EPCOT is a food lover’s dream, offering more than 100 restaurants, kiosks, and food trucks. From French pastries to Italian pizza, the park has something for every palate. It’s a culinary journey that spans the globe, allowing you to sample authentic dishes from each pavilion.

• Don’t miss out on the international snacks like croissant doughnuts, curry chicken pockets, or frozen treats from the France Pavilion.

EPCOT offers a unique blend of thrilling attractions, cultural exploration, and unforgettable dining experiences. Whether you’re a foodie, an adventure seeker, or a lover of global cultures, EPCOT has something special to offer.

Have you tried any of these dining spots at EPCOT? What was your favorite? Share your thoughts below!