We’re continuing our journey around EPCOT’s World Showcase neighborhood and exploring the 11 different country pavilions.
EPCOT’s Italy Pavilion
Today, we’re taking a closer look at the Italy Pavilion. Stately buildings with beautiful brickwork and statues/carvings reflect the rich architectural history of the country. Visitors will spot design influences from different regions around Italy. The landscaping features olive, citrus, and cypress trees and an abundance of beautiful flowers.
Towards World Showcase Lagoon, guests can enjoy the view of moored gondolas across the bridge. In the center of the pavilion just past the piazza, there is a fountain featuring Neptune. Like many of the World Showcase pavilions, Italy is a treasure trove of stunning photo opportunities!
Shops
- La Bottega Italiana offers clothing, pins, cookware, decorative art, Venetian masks, Italian food items and more.
- Il Bel Cristallo has a selection of elegant Murano glass, porcelain and crystal; as well as clothing, handbags and accessories.
- La Gemma Elegante sells handbags, jewelry, leather goods and perfume. You can also browse the large selection of beautiful Venetian masks here.
Dining
Quick Service
If you want to grab a quick slice of pizza, stop by the Pizza al Taglio window. Choose from one of the available selections (such as cheese or pepperoni) and enjoy your slice at one of the many outdoor tables or benches in the pavilion. Pizza al Taglio has inconsistent operating hours, but keep an eye out when you next visit the pavilion to see if they are open.
At Gelateria Toscano, satisfy your sweet tooth with a selection of gelato and sorbet. Enjoy a cup, cone, float or specialty dessert creation.
There is also a beer and wine cart near the fountain where guests can grab a quick beverage like wine, beer, water or soda.
Table Service
Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar is an intimate and elegant wine bar/lounge, offering over 200 bottles of authentic Italian wine. Enjoy a glass accompanied with one of their small-plate offerings. There is limited seating available here and it is a first-come first-serve basis.
Tutto Italia Ristorante offers traditional Italian fare in a warm and inviting restaurant. Dark wood tones and paintings on the wall decorate the dining room. The menu features a variety of antipasti, salmon, chicken, beef, pastas and decadent desserts. Guests who partake in alcohol can order a wine flight to pair with their meal.
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria remains one of the most popular restaurants in EPCOT. Though known for their authentic wood-fired pizzas, Via Napoli also offers an extensive menu of Italian favorites such as pastas, salads and of course, delicious desserts.
Entertainment
Don’t miss a performance of the master juggler and mime Sergio, who entertains guests with a humorous and impressive act. The show is interactive and entertaining for both adults and kids. Sergio performs periodically in the piazza towards the center of the pavilion; check the My Disney Experience app for showtimes.
There is also a Kidcot Fun Stop near the La Bottega Italiana shop where kids can pick up a fun activity card/memento.
Did You Know?
The bell tower in the center of the pavilion is a replica of St. Mark’s Campanile in Venice, Italy. The original stands 323 feet tall, whereas the Italy Pavilion’s version is 83 feet tall.
Featured Photo: Emily Murray.