Our First Year at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival: A Culinary Adventure

This was our first year at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, and we decided to fully embrace the experience! We visited every booth, and whenever someone thought something looked good, we tried it. It was a delightful journey filled with flavors and fun.

Our Favorite Dishes

Here are our favorites from the festival:

• Carrot Cake - Milled and Mulled

• Duck Bao Buns - China Booth

• Wings (we tried each flavor and loved them all) - Brew Lab

• Feijoada - Brazil

• Red Wine-Braised Beef Short Rib with Goat Cheese Polenta and Puttanesca Sauce - Earth

  
  

Each dish brought something unique to the table. The carrot cake was moist and flavorful, while the duck bao buns were a delightful surprise. The wings? Oh, they were a hit! We couldn’t pick a favorite flavor because they were all so good.

What We Didn't Enjoy

Not everything was a winner, though. Here are a few things that didn’t quite hit the mark for us:

• Raclette Cheese - The Alps: This cheese had an awful smell that lingered with us for the rest of the day. Everything—our fingers, straws—smelled like stinky cheese. It was quite an experience, but not one we’d want to repeat!

  
  

• Pickle Milkshake - Brew Lab: While it wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t great either. It was an interesting concept, but the flavors didn’t mesh well for us.

  
  

• Pavlova - Australia: To be honest, we didn't enjoy the texture. It was a bit too chewy for our liking.

  
  

Cocktails and Beverages

We also tried two different cocktails at the beginning, but we didn't like either of them. So, we decided to skip drinks for the rest of the festival. Sometimes, it’s better to stick with what you know you love!

A Note on the Beef Dishes

Additionally, we noticed that the same roast-style beef is commonly used throughout the beef dishes, with only slight variations. After a few of these dishes, they started to feel repetitive. I recommend picking one specific style and sticking with it; otherwise, you might tire of the flavor.

Tips for Future Visitors

If you're planning to visit the Epcot Food and Wine Festival, here are a few tips to enhance your experience:

1. Plan Your Route

Before you go, take a look at the festival map. Planning your route can save you time and help you hit all the booths you’re excited about.

2. Share Dishes

Consider sharing dishes with your group. This way, you can try more items without feeling too full. It’s a great way to sample a variety of flavors!

3. Stay Hydrated

With all the delicious food, don’t forget to drink water. It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and forget to hydrate.

4. Take Breaks

Walking around can be tiring. Make sure to take breaks and enjoy the atmosphere. Find a nice spot to sit and soak in the surroundings.

5. Be Open to New Flavors

Don’t be afraid to try something new! You might discover a new favorite dish or drink that you never expected to enjoy.

Conclusion

Our first year at the Epcot Food and Wine Festival was a memorable experience. We loved trying new dishes and sharing our thoughts on what we enjoyed and what we didn’t. I hope our insights help you navigate the festival and make the most of your culinary adventure. Remember, it’s all about enjoying the flavors and the company of those around you!

If you’re looking for more culinary inspiration from travel, check out The Hungry Half Dozen. We’re building a community around shared experiences and delicious, accessible recipes. Happy eating!