5 cuisines that we want to see at 2018 Epcot Food & Wine

As the annual Epcot Food & Wine comes to a close, we are already thinking of 2018 Epcot Food & Wine. These five cuisines would make a great addition to the annual food festival.

With Epcot celebrating its 35th anniversary, this year’s Epcot Food & Wine was its biggest ever. With more marketplaces than ever, it seems somewhat surprising that some cuisines that weren’t represented. Granted, no one left the annual food festival hungry or unsatisfied. Still, a few more additions representing common food trends would be well received.

This year’s food festival saw the return of some previous favorites. Spain, Thailand and India were met with a very warm reception. These marketplaces had some authentic flavors, while the dishes were quite approachable.

2017 Epcot Food and Wine, New Zealand, photo by Cristine Struble

New marketplaces, like Flavors from Fire and Light Lab, were instant hits. Light Lab made food fun. Flavors from Fire showed hot spice can transform a traditional dish. These marketplaces showed that food can be playful and delicious.

If Epcot is looking to add a few new cuisines for 2018, Filipino food should be a top priority. Right now, Filipino food is a popular food trend. From food halls to restaurants, this regional cuisine is popping up everywhere.

Another strong addition would be Peruvian food. Peruvian food is a blend of Latin and Asian cuisines in a single plate. These dishes have bold, layered flavors. Plus, a Peruvian marketplace would have to serve a Pisco Sour. Maybe, the classic Peruvian cocktail could be transformed into a delicious frozen cocktail.

2017 Epcot Food and Wine, chocolate torte, photo by Cristine Struble

While Epcot Food & Wine has several dessert options, a savory type dessert would be a wonderful choice. For example, a savory bread pudding could be an interesting twist. Or, even a dessert that highlights savory ingredients. For example, adding some fennel to a cake.

2017 Epcot Food and Wine, Spain, photo by Cristine Struble

Even though some people may not be too adventurous, an offal marketplace could be an exciting idea. While many other countries eat all parts of an animal, Americans can be less adventurous. Still, a sausage made from Bison heart wouldn’t be too outrageous. Plus, an offal marketplace could educate people on respecting the whole animal, by eating the whole animal.

2017 Epcot Food and Wine, Brazil, photo by Cristine Struble

Lastly, a marketplace that focuses on food waste would be a timely choice. Food waste is a growing concern in our country. So many people throw away usable food. Many chefs can make entire meals out of wasted food. Again, this type of marketplace could educate the food festival visitors on an important subject.

Next: 5 tips for surviving Epcot Food and Wine

If you haven’t been to this year’s Epcot Food & Wine Festival, you still have a little bit of time left. The annual food festival runs through November 13, 2017. The festival is included with park admission. Additional seminars, demonstrations and events are available for an additional fee.

Epcot Food & Wine can spark a love affair with food. Try something new or indulge in a favorite treat. But, don’t miss out on all the delicious food.