The 23rd annual Walt Disney World Epcot International Food & Wine Festival is tickling the palates of park-goers now through November 12th. This year's event offers more than 30 individual marketplaces with over 100 delicious dishes to try, and we've got our list of the best of the fest. From incredible new tastes to returning favorites that'll knock your socks off, here are the top 10 foods at the Epcot Food & Wine Festival this year.
Moqueca Seafood Stew from Brazil
This standout dish is the sleeper hit of the festival. It's a creamy traditional stew filled with scallops and shrimp mixed in a coconut-lime sauce, served over steamed rice and topped with a piece of flaky white fish. There's also a hint of spicy that starts to hit you after a few bites. Order the cheese bread from the same booth, because it's perfect for dipping in the stew!
Kalua Pork Slider from Hawai’i
Making a hit return from last year, the pork slider from Hawai’i strikes the perfect balance of sweet and savory. Served on a Hawaiian roll, this slider is filled with pulled pork that's covered in a sweet and sour pineapple chutney and a small drizzle of spicy mayonnaise. This tropical sandwich is so good, you may want to order two.
Teriyaki Chicken Bun in Japan
A wonderful new savory dish, the Teriyaki Chicken Bun from Japan is perfect to grab on the go while walking around the World Showcase. You can eat it hand-held, no fork and knife needed. Inside of this steamed bun you'll find a piping-hot, delicious mix of chicken teriyaki and veggies. Don't let its appearance fool you – it's actually a quite filling dish.
Maple Bourbon Boursin Cheesecake from The Cheese Studio
One of the new desserts for this year's event, the maple bourbon cheesecake does not disappoint. It's a soft cheesecake that's smothered in caramel sauce and topped with a maple bourbon cream and candied pecans. The hint of bourbon in the sauce elevates this treat to a whole new level. Don't be afraid to ask for extra caramel!
Ropa Vieja Empanada from Islands of the Caribbean
This is not just an ordinary empanada. That's because this tasty dish is baked, not fried, so the outer shell is flaky and not at all greasy. Inside, the filling is a perfect rendition of the classic Cuban Ropa Vieja, made with shredded beef and vegetables. Try it with a Quesito from the same booth, which is like a sweet empanada with cream cheese and guava sauce.
Butternut Squash Ravioli from The Wine & Dine Studio
The Wine & Dine Studio offers several dishes that pair well with wine, but the new butternut squash ravioli stands out among the rest of this year's offerings. With its luxurious brown butter vinaigrette and freshly shaved Parmesan cheese topping, you'll savor every bite.
Specialty Poutines from Refreshment Port
The classic Canadian snack has made its way to Epcot in a big way with three variations available during the event. You've got your traditional Poutine, which is french fries topped with beef gravy and cheese curds. Then, there are two specialty options: one topped with beef brisket, beer cheese and crispy onions; and another that's more of a dessert, with sweet potato fries covered in caramel and marshmallows.
Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Dip from The Almond Orchard
Served with Nut Thins crackers for dipping, this dish will have you and your friends addicted in no time. With creamy spinach, artichokes and even pulled chicken, all topped with flavorful Parmesan cheese and Blue Diamond almonds, it's a match made in heaven. There's also a tasty hummus dip available if you want to keep the dipping going.
Fritto Misto in Italy
Italy hits out it out of the park with one of this year's biggest winners, the Fritto Misto. Enjoy this appetizing plate of crispy shrimp served with fried zucchini and sweet potatoes. It's covered in a spicy sauce to bring it all together. Order yourself a frozen Italian margarita to help cool down after this hot dish.
Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup in Canada
One of the most beloved classics of the Epcot Food & Wine Festival has made a glorious return. This rich soup is made with real Canadian cheddar cheese. Plus, it has just the right amount of bacon mixed in, and is served with a pretzel roll on the side that's just begging to be dipped.
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