Epcot is one of the four theme parks located within Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.
The park’s most iconic section is The World Showcase, which features 11 pavilions representing different countries. The countries represented are Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Morocco, Japan, the United States, Italy, Germany, China, Norway and Mexico. Each country’s pavilion has its own unique architecture, food, drinks, and culture to experience.
The World Showcase is a popular section of the park because park-goers love the unique experience of being able to eat and drink “around the world.”
So, if you are not planning on purchasing Epcot tickets, you may be wondering…
Can you go to Epcot for lunch or dinner without buying tickets?
Unfortunately, you need to purchase Epcot tickets to have access to the dining options available within Epcot. There are no exceptions to this rule.
If you are currently planning a trip to Disney World but don’t want to spend money on Epcot tickets, you will be happy to know that there are still plenty of awesome Disney dining options available to you!
In this article, we will discuss some of the best restaurants outside of Epcot for guests who are visiting without Epcot tickets. We will also provide information on when you can make dining reservations. So, whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning guest, read on for all the information you need on Epcot-alternative dining!
Read More: EPCOT vs Magic Kingdom: Which Disney park is best?
Where Can I Dine Without an Epcot Ticket?
There are many, many restaurants located on Disney World property! A few fun places to check out include Disney’s BoardWalk, Disney Springs, and various Disney World resorts – all of which you can visit without park tickets.
Disney’s BoardWalk
Disney’s BoardWalk is a promenade of shops and restaurants located between Epcot and Hollywood Studios. It is one of the best places to eat near Epcot without having to purchase a park ticket.
Situated by the water, the BoardWalk is reminiscent of Coney Island or Atlantic City. It offers arcade games and entertainment as well, so it is more than just a place to eat! The BoardWalk has counter service, casual dining, and fine dining options. There are also shopping options, making the BoardWalk a great place to purchase souvenirs because you won’t have to carry them all day like you would at the parks!
There are several resorts within walking distance of the Disney BoardWalk, including the Swan & Dolphin Resorts, Yacht & Beach Clubs, and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn & Villas.
Disney Springs
Disney Springs is a huge shopping and dining district located within Walt Disney World Resort. It is an excellent place to spend a day without having to purchase a theme park ticket.
There are over 150 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues at Disney Springs, including popular brands, specialty shops, boutiques, and more! There are also a bunch of unique restaurants that you won’t find at any of the theme parks, such as Morimoto Asia, Raglan Road Irish Pub, and Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante.
Disney World Resorts
If you are looking for a more immersive dining experience, consider dining at one of the Disney World Resort hotels. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, including fine dining, buffet, and character meals.
Each Disney resort has its own theme and unique experiences, so exploring them is an entertaining activity!
Alternatives to Popular Epcot Restaurants
Challenge: Dine around the world without an Epcot ticket.
Is it doable? Absolutely!
Listed below are popular international dining options located within Epcot’s World Showcase, followed by alternatives guests have access to outside of Epcot. All the alternatives are located on Disney property and have similar dining styles and price points as their Epcot inspirations.
Tutto Italia Ristorante – Italy Pavilion
Located within Italy in Epcot’s World Showcase, Tutto Italia Ristorante offers an authentic Italian dining experience.
Alternative: Trattoria al Forno – Disney’s BoardWalk
Did you know you can have an awesome Italian dining experience on Disney’s BoardWalk? Trattoria al Forno is an Italian restaurant located on the boardwalk that offers a similarly inspired menu.
Alternative: Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante – Disney Springs
Another Italian dining option is Maria & Enzo’s Ristorante, located in Disney Springs. They have a menu full of delicious Italian cuisine.
Alternative: Il Mulino II – Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
This upscale Italian restaurant is located along the Boardwalk at the Walt Disney Swan Hotel.
La Hacienda de San Angel – Mexico Pavilion
Located within Mexico in Epcot’s World Showcase, La Hacienda de San Angel offers an authentic Mexican dining experience.
Alternative: Frontera Cocina – Disney Springs
Frontera Cocina is a Mexican restaurant located in Disney Springs. With a deliciously curated menu, it is a great alternative to La Hacienda de San Angel.
Tokyo Dining – Japan Pavilion
Located within Japan in Epcot’s World Showcase, Tokyo Dining is an authentic Japanese restaurant with a menu that includes Sushi Rolls, Nigiri, and Sashimi.
Alternative: Kimonos – Walt Disney World Swan Hotel
Kimonos is a Japanese restaurant located in the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel. It was voted Orlando Sentinel’s Critic’s Choice for best sushi in Orlando!
Nine Dragons Restaurant – China Pavilion
Located within China in Epcot’s World Showcase, Nine Dragons Restaurant serves contemporary Chinese cuisine in an authentically decorated restaurant.
Alternative: Morimoto Asia – Disney Springs
Morimoto Asia is a Pan-Asian restaurant located in Disney Springs. Their menu includes delicious offerings such as dim sum, ramen, and fried rice.
So, if you are not planning on booking an Epcot ticket for your trip to Disney World, don’t worry – there are still plenty of dining options available to you on Disney World property! You are sure to find something that fits your taste and budget. And don’t forget about the amazing restaurants located on the Disney BoardWalk, in Disney Springs, and throughout the Disney World resorts; they offer a wide variety of cuisines so you can always have a magical experience.
Read Also: Best Disney World Breakfast Buffets
Please check in advance to see if reservations are recommended or required for your preferred restaurants. Most table service restaurants at Walt Disney World require advanced reservations. You can make dining reservations up to 60 days prior to your trip.
