The EPCOT International flower and garden festival is taking place now through the end of May, and you don’t want to miss it! This festival has been going on for well over 20 years, but it’s only been recently that Walt Disney World has introduced food booths called “outdoor kitchens” to the festival.
If you are familiar with the Food and Wine Festival in the fall, this is the same concept but on a smaller scale. There are 15 booth, all with different themed foods and beverages in snack sized portions (some count as snack credits on the dining plan!) for you to enjoy as you walk around the world showcase.
I had the opportunity to visit when the festival opened, and wanted to share a couple of my favorite food and beverage choices from the event.
First up, I tried the Jamaican-braised beef with pigeon pea rice and micro cilantro from La Isla Fresca. It has a very slight kick to it (I would NOT consider this spicy at all, so don’t be shy). It was super tender and had great flavor. Would get this again!
Next was the beef brisket burnt ends hash with white cheddar fondue and pickled jalapenos from the Smokehouse Barbeque and Brews. The fondue was AMAZING and really made the dish. I don’t eat jalapenos so I can’t vouch for that part, and I also didn’t eat most of the onions. Can I please just have a meal of the fondue and brisket please? Excellent!
My friend got the tarte a l’ onion alsacienne and wine from Fleur de Lys. She said the wine was not great by itself, but with the onion tarte it was good for a pairing. Something to keep in mind! She said the onion tarte was her favorite thing at the festival, too.
There are so many more items to try, but I just wanted to show you a sampling to give you an idea of the types of things you can purchase.
You can also buy a really cute gift card that goes on your wrist, and load it with money before you hit the outdoor kitchens, that way you don’t have to pull out a credit card every time.
There are so many other things to check out at the festival like topiaries, a concert series, and exhibits for things like butterflies and bonsai plants. Make sure if you are traveling to Walt Disney World this spring that you plan plenty of time to enjoy the festival. You may even go back more than once!
I would love to help you and your family plan your next vacation. Email me at heather@travelwiththemagic.com or find me on Facebook or Pinterest
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