5 must eat dishes for the start of 2023 Epcot Food and Wine Festival

Kicking off its lengthy run, the 2023 Epcot Food and Wine Festival saw large crowds as the opening day clouds faded from view. Even though the temperatures had people fanning themselves, the flavorful dishes brought a different color to their cheeks. With so many tempting treats, these must eat dishes should be prioritized on the journey through deliciousness.

Brew-Wing Lab at the Odessey

The lab door has been thrust open and the food scientists have prepared a feast for everyone. While Dr. Bunsen Honeydew and his assistant, Beaker, from Muppet Labs, might have stepped out of the box for some of their offerings, everyone should experiment a little out of their comfort zone.

Of course, everyone will have to try the Pickle Milkshake. Pickle lovers will jump for joy. For those less briny-inclined, the milkshake does finish with a sweet note. If you have a group, definitely buy one to share.

If a sweeter sip is preferred, Frozen Fusion is absolutely delightful on a hot day. While it is Twinings Pomegranate and Raspberry Herbal Tea with orange cream, it is bright, refreshing, but it is sweet. Although there is no alcoholic version, this beverage would be great with a shot of vodka or tequila. Maybe next time around the Muppet Labs will have a more stocked bar.

The wing selection combines both returning favorites and new options. The Unnecessarily Spicy, Yet Extremely Tasty Scotch Bonnet Pepper-Curry Wings with cool cucumber yogurt does not disappoint with their spice level. Still, it is not a palate destroyer.

The other top wings choice is Orange-Cardamom Wings. As Chef Steve, one of the Disney chefs described it, the cardamon flavor might be a common flavor across many dishes, but it will leave guests wants to discover more of that flavor.

And, for anyone a little a little trepidatious about the spice levels, order either of the beverages. Dairy helps to counter act capsaicin as does sugar.

Australia

A returning favorite, Roasted Lamb Chop with mint pesto and potato crunchies, is always a must enjoy. Even though the classic Lamington Cake is lovely, the perfectly cooked lamb chop with mint pesto entices everyone to pick it up and eat it. It might not be as portable as a turkey leg, but who can resist meat on its own stick.

Tangierine Café: Flavors of the Medina (Morocco)

Over the past several food festivals, the Moroccan marketplace has pushed the creativity level. From the visually stunning desserts to the refreshing beverages, it is a wonderful spot to sit and rest a moment. The Moroccan-spiced Lamb Grilled Kebab is quite flavorful. The spices contrasted with the bright salad is a definite winner.

Flavors of America

With multiple new food offerings in the American Adventure, it can be hard to pick a favorite. While it might not be The Bear’s beef, the Italian Beef does have a classic spicy giardiniera. For anyone who misses that Southside flavor, that giardiniera delivers.

In a nod to the Northwest, the Cioppino is wonderful. A bowl has people longing for extra bread to enjoy the tomato-fennel broth.

Lastly, the Chilaquiles are the must have pre Eat to the Beat concert snack. When paired with the beer flight, it puts classic nachos to shame. Just be patient with that order. The poached egg does take a little longer to make.

Flavors from Fire

Over the years, this marketplace has showcased how both fire and flame brings the flavor heat. While many people will try the Chimichurri Marinated Skirt Steak Taco, do not snooze on the Spiced Chocolate Tart. That smoked sea salt is a definite foodie find. It might be a fun way to upgrade that chocolate chip recipe.

Additional global marketplaces will open later in August. Be sure to plan a second visit to try offerings from the Bubbles and Brine, Wine and Wedge and Char and Chop.

2023 Epcot Food and Wine Festival runs now through November 18, 2023. Theme park reservations are required. In addition to the global marketplaces, the Disney Parks festival includes Eat to the Beat concert series.