The France pavilion in Epcot is one of my favorite places in all of Walt Disney World. I love walking along the sidewalks and back into the gardens and buildings (especially at night) and taking in the French music, architecture and atmosphere. Another reason I love this pavilion is Chefs de France. This has become a must dining experience for our family over the years.
Chefs de France is located right at the front of the pavilion and serves both lunch and dinner. This restaurant was actually created for Epcot by three of France’s top chefs: Paul Bocouse (whose son now runs the restaurant), Roger Verge and the late Gaston LeNotre. While you will definitely feel like you are dining in Paris this is a very laid back, child friendly Parisian restaurant. Guests will be seating in a large glassed in room with views out to the walkways of World Showcase or an interior dining room which is large with mosaic tile floors, huge mirrors and tall ceilings. The servers are from various regions of France and love to share information about France with guests. Don’t be afraid to ask them questions about their home town and customs. You may even leave speaking a few words of French!
You won’t find over the top French sauces and flambés here – this restaurant prides itself on simple, fresh French inspired dishes. Make sure to try the Lobster Bisque – it’s full of chunks of lobster meat and deliciously rich. Other appetizers include an imported French cheese board, onion soup, crabmeat salad and escargots. Entrees include the most wonderful macaroni and cheese you will ever eat, roasted chicken, duck breast, beef tenderloin, beef short ribs, salmon and other fresh seafood offerings. You must stay for dessert and coffee (what would a trip to France be without either of these!). Desserts include chocolate mousse, crème brulee, strawberry cake and the specialty of the house – chocolate filled puffed pastries with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. An extensive wine list is also offered.
A three course prix fixe menu is offered at both lunch and dinner and lunch features many of the same offerings as dinner but with smaller portions and prices. Remy (the star of Disney Pixar’s Ratatouille) may even stop by your table to chat during the lunch hours.
Chefs de France is a very popular restaurant. Reservations may be made 180 days in advance and are highly recommended. This restaurant will utilize 1 table service entitlement on the Disney Dining Plan.
My name is Susan Heidenrich and I am a travel professional with Travel with the Magic. I’ve visited Walt Disney World over 20 times and I would love to help you plan your next Disney vacation. Email me at SusanH@travelwiththemagic.com and follow me on facebook for tips, tricks and information on all things Disney!
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