I was fortunate enough to visit Walt Disney World last week during my spring break. I was extremely excited as I was aware I would be visiting during EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival which I had yet to experience. Although Disney is widely recognized for its first-class entertainment, the food served around the theme parks and resorts should not be overlooked. Although I tried a plethora of offerings, especially from around the World Showcase, I narrowed them down to my top five favorites to share from the Flower & Garden Festival.
1. Farmhouse Meatball with Lentil Bread, Spinach, Marinated Vegetables, and Creamy Herb Dressing
I decided to take a break from sweets to try out the Farmhouse Meatball with lentil bread, spinach, marinated vegetables, and creamy herb dressing from the Trowel & Trellis booth. I did not regret my decision. This meatball was packed with an abundance of flavor. If you’re a lover of vegetables like myself, I’m almost sure you’d love this snack. I thought the lentil bread successfully complemented the meatball and the other flavors of the vegetables. However, I thought more dressing was necessary as it was scarcely present. Although this was a tasty sandwich-like treat, I do not think that the portion was worth it for $5.50.
2. Warm Cheese Strudel with Mixed Berries
Before I tried this strudel from Bauernmarkt: Farmer's Market, I had never tasted one. Therefore, I did not have any solid expectations. I was glad that I decided to take the risk. The pastry was delectable and satisfyingly flaky. Although it was slightly greasy, it was not so much to the point where my fingers were saturated and slippery. There was a hefty amount of cheese in the middle which I was pleasantly surprised by. I thought that the contrasting flavors of the berries and the cheese worked well together. I also liked that this treat was served warm. I do not think the flavors would have blended as thoroughly had the treat been served cold or at room temperature. For $4.25, this treat is worth every penny.
3. Tarte au Chévre: Goat Cheese Tart with Caramelized Onions on a Flaky Pastry Crust
When most people read that goat cheese is present in a dish, they automatically cringe. I personally don’t understand their bitterness towards the cheese. It is actually one of my favorite kind of cheeses. I take delight in its piquant flavor and creamy texture. I had expected this tart to be stellar since it is served from the Fleur de Lys booth in the French pavilion and the French are notable for their heavenly pastries and tarts. Since a large portion of the tart was provided, I did not have a problem with its cost of $5.50. However, I would not recommend trying this tart if you’re not fond of goat cheese and herbs.
4. Honey Tandoori Chicken Flatbread with White Cheddar Cheese, Charred Vegetables, Clover Honey Sour Cream and Micro Citrus Greens
I don’t think I’ve ever had a flatbread as tasty as this one from The Honey Bee-stro. After tasting it, I was so upset that I didn’t start my food journey with this flatbread because it would have been an indulgence that I splurged on each visit I made to EPCOT. I think the unique clover honey sour cream is what made this food so yummy. I had never tasted anything similar to it prior. I always find it refreshing to add a new flavor to my palette. I thought this food was worth the $5.50. This could be eaten for a light lunch or a snack. I would highly recommend this to pizza or flatbread lovers as well as anyone who is in need of palette boost.
5. Griddled Maple Pound Cake with Warm Peach Compote and Sweet Corn Gelato featuring Burton’s Maple Syrup
What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the words sweet corn gelato? If you’re like most people, you probably thought that the flavor sounds absolutely bizarre. However, that’s what inspired me to taste it. I frequently enjoy stepping out of my comfort zone when it comes to sampling new foods and treats. I was overwhelmed by how delicious this Griddled Maple Pound Cake with Warm Peach Compote and Sweet Corn Gelato featuring Burton’s Maple Syrup from the Northern Bloom booth had been. All of the flavors meshed well together and a burst of flavor was provided with each bite. My favorite portion of this sweet was the warm peach compote as the sweet flavor was distinct, but not overbearing. The caramel corn that topped off the dessert was satisfying. At $4.50, I feel like this dessert is worth it for the price. The portion is relatively large and is the perfect size for sharing with one or two others.
Overall Thoughts
If you haven’t had the opportunity to experience EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival, it is definitely something worth attending. From the beautiful topiaries to the flavorful food and beverages, it is a truly marvelous ordeal to participate in. As I aforementioned, the food at Walt Disney World should not go unnoticed, and the cuisine served at this festival is a stellar example of that. Even if you’re underage and unable to appreciate the alcoholic drinks served, the food at the Flower & Garden Festival is more than enough to satisfy one’s appetites.