Not Every EPCOT Snack Is a Winner — Here’s What to Avoid

One of the best parts of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation is indulging in food you can’t find anywhere else. While the theme parks offer classic dishes like pizza and chicken tenders, the dining at Disney World goes far beyond the ordinary.

For food enthusiasts, EPCOT is a must-visit spot. The World Showcase features eleven pavilions, each showcasing a different country, and each offering delicious dishes that will have you dreaming of them until your next visit.

Related: 11 Insider Tips to Maximize Your EPCOT Day Like a Pro at Walt Disney World

However, not every dining option is a winner. Here are a few snacks I’ll be passing on during my next trip to EPCOT.

1. Beverly Soda – Club Cool

You might not typically think of a drink as a snack, but I’d be remiss not to mention the infamous Beverly at Club Cool.

At Club Cool, guests can sample various Coca-Cola beverages from around the world, including those from the Dominican Republic, the Philippines, China, Korea, and Russia.

The most controversial drink at Club Cool is undoubtedly The Beverly, an Italian soda with a strong, bitter citrus flavor. It’s the kind of drink that you’ll take one sip of and remember that unpleasant taste for years to come.

Related: EPCOT Rookie Mistakes You Should Avoid

That said, if you’re feeling adventurous and haven’t tried The Beverly yet, proceed at your own risk!

2. Chicken Teriyaki – Katsura Grill

Katsura Grill, nestled in the Japan Pavilion, offers an enticing menu of Japanese-inspired dishes. However, the Chicken Teriyaki has been widely criticized for its lack of flavor. The chicken is often boiled rather than grilled, leaving it with an unappetizing texture.

Additionally, the teriyaki sauce lacks the bold, savory depth that could have redeemed the dish. If you’re dining in the Japan Pavilion, you’d be better off trying sushi or ramen instead.

Related: Unlock the Secrets of EPCOT’s World Showcase: 11 Tips for Walt Disney World Guests

3. Caramel Butter Bar – Karamell-Küche

I know what you’re thinking – I must be crazy for including one of EPCOT’s most popular treats on the list. But hear me out: while the Caramel Butter Bar may be the top pick at Karamell-Küche, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best.

Named for its buttery flavor, the crust is a rich shortbread, but when you add an extra layer of crust on top, it becomes a bit overwhelming. Rather than tasting delightfully buttery, the bar ends up feeling more oily.

I still highly recommend visiting Karamell-Küche, as it offers a wide variety of delicious treats. The Caramel Pecan Bar and Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel are two must-tries. The Pecan Bar has just the right amount of shortbread crust, while the Dark Chocolate Sea Salt Caramel strikes the perfect balance of sweet and salty.

And don’t forget to grab a bag of freshly popped caramel popcorn to take home!

4. Jumbo Pretzel – Sommerfest

Here’s another option that might surprise you. Germans are famous for their amazing pretzels, especially when paired with a tasty beer.

Unfortunately, the Jumbo Pretzel at the Germany Pavilion often turns out quite dry—so dry, in fact, that if you decide to try it, we recommend loading it up with mustard or grabbing a drink to go with it.

This is especially disappointing considering the Biergarten Restaurant serves an incredibly delicious Beer Cheese Soup! It makes you wonder why Sommerfest doesn’t offer soup as a side with the pretzel.

5. Honorable Mention: Lotus Blossom Café – China Pavilion

The China Pavilion offers a range of food options, but the dishes at Lotus Blossom Café have been criticized for their lack of authenticity. Many guests compare the flavors to generic takeout rather than an immersive culinary experience. The orange chicken and egg rolls are often described as uninspired, especially considering the high-quality dishes available elsewhere in EPCOT.

If you’re craving Chinese food, consider exploring the festival food booths for a more flavorful and unique experience.

But if you do find yourself wanting a taste of the familiar, Lotus Blossom Café does have options like Pork Egg Rolls, Chicken Dumplings, Sweet-and-Sour Chicken, and Chicken Fried Rice.

Of course, taste is subjective, and what one person dislikes, another might love. However, if you’re looking to make the most of your EPCOT food experience, these snacks have been consistently reported as underwhelming by guests.

Instead of these picks, consider trying some EPCOT fan favorites, like the Croissant Donut at the Refreshment Port, Fish and Chips at the UK Pavilion, or the Macaron Ice Cream Sandwich at L’Artisan des Glaces.

Have you tried any of these EPCOT snacks? Do you agree with the rankings, or do you think some deserve a second chance? Share your thoughts in the comments!