The 2025 Epcot Food and Wine Festival presents an expansive array of culinary delights, featuring over 30 food and beverage marketplaces scattered throughout the park. Visitors can explore a rich tapestry of global cuisines, including French, Italian, and Chinese specialties, alongside a variety of vegetarian and gluten-free choices to accommodate diverse dietary needs. These marketplaces typically open their doors around 11 AM each day, inviting guests to embark on a flavorful journey. In addition to the exquisite food, the festival includes the Eat to the Beat Concert Series, offering live musical performances that are part of the park admission, though food and drink purchases are separate.
Positioned conveniently near the concert venue, the Flavors of America marketplace is a prime destination for those seeking an ideal pre-show meal. This year, the spot shines with its exceptional pairing of a New England Slider and a meticulously curated beer flight. The flight features the intriguing Playlinda Brewing Co Pumpkin Cheesecake Blonde Stout, the refreshing von Trapp Brewing Natur Helles Lager, and the robust Harpoon Brewing Flannel Friday Hoppy Amber Ale. While each beer offers its unique charm, the Amber Ale stands out with its perfect balance of malty undertones and bitter hop notes. This selection complements the slow-braised beef pot roast slider beautifully, where the tender beef and spicy giardiniera atop a soft potato roll create a truly unforgettable sandwich experience.
Making its debut in 2025 at the Sommerfest kiosk, the Zwiebelkuchen, or German onion cake, offers a substantial and satisfying meal. Located near the Biergarten Restaurant, this dish is generously portioned, making it perfect for sharing. Described as a savory custard, it more closely resembles a baked egg dish rich with caramelized onions. The crisped edges of the cake are particularly delightful, evoking a culinary cross between a pizza and a quiche. It serves as an excellent companion to a cold beer or a comforting treat after a long day of exploration.
The Brew-Wing Lab, reimagined by The Muppets, introduces a range of innovative tastes this year. Among the new offerings, the Korean BBQ Wings come highly recommended by a Disney chef, and for good reason. The gochujang-infused barbecue sauce provides a tangy flavor without overwhelming spice, making it a broadly appealing option. A highlight of these wings is their preparation; twice-fried, they boast an incredibly crispy skin that encases succulent, juicy chicken, ensuring a truly satisfying bite.
The China marketplace, sometimes overlooked, reveals a delightful surprise this year with its new Beijing Zhajiang Noodles. This dish offers a generous serving for its price, presenting a well-proportioned mix of tender beef and perfectly textured noodles. The spice level is thoughtfully balanced, offering a pleasant warmth without the intensity of Dan Dan noodles. It’s an excellent choice for a late-night meal, delivering an authentic and delicious experience that echoes the vibrant street food culture.
No visit to Epcot is complete without indulging in its spectacular desserts, and the Strawberry Champagne Trifle at Shimmering Sips is an absolute standout. Presented elegantly in a stemless champagne flute, this layered dessert strikes a perfect balance of sweetness, avoiding any cloying aftertaste. The vibrant strawberry flavor beautifully contrasts with the rich, creamy layers, creating a harmonious blend that satisfies without guilt. While other desserts, such as Australia's Mixed Berry Pavlova, also impress, the Strawberry Champagne Trifle is an impeccable choice to conclude a day at the festival.