Forget Park Tickets, This Hotel At Disney Is Doing Something Exclusive This Summer
EPCOT has spent decades convincing guests they can experience the world without leaving Orlando, and that magic does not stop at the park’s gates. This summer, a hotel restaurant located steps away from EPCOT is taking that same concept and running with it in a way that turns dinner into a genuine trip across Italy.
Il Mulino New York Trattoria at the Walt Disney World Swan Resort has launched a Tour of Italy wine dinner series, and it is one of the more inventive dining experiences currently available near Walt Disney World.
The Concept
The series runs one evening each month from June through September, with each event built around an intimate six-course tasting menu paired with wines from two distinct Italian regions. Every dinner spotlights the specific flavors, traditions, and culinary heritage of the featured destinations, which means the experience changes meaningfully from one month to the next rather than repeating the same format with a different theme attached.
The lineup kicks off June 25 with Veneto and Tuscany, two regions known for very different culinary identities and wine traditions, served starting at 6:00 p.m. July 16 turns the focus to Umbria and Abruzzo, with the exact time still to be announced. August 20 spotlights Campania and Calabria, and the series closes September 24 with Sicily and Sardinia. Both later dates also have times still to be confirmed.
Each dinner costs $175 per person and includes all six courses, along with the wine pairings selected for each. Given the limited seating at every event, reservations are strongly encouraged, and, based on the popularity of Il Mulino’s other special dining experiences, these dates are expected to sell out well of advance. Bookings are available through OpenTable.
Why Il Mulino Is the Right Setting for This
Il Mulino New York Trattoria has established a strong reputation at the Swan Resort for its authentic Italian cuisine, served in an upscale yet genuinely welcoming environment. The “Tour of Italy” series enhances this reputation by providing guests with a structured opportunity to explore various regions of Italy’s culinary landscape—regions that often don’t receive much attention in American dining. This experience is further enriched by expertly selected wines that complement each region’s signature dishes.
More Reasons to Choose the Swan and Dolphin This Summer at Disney
The Italian dinner series is set to launch during a busy summer at the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, coinciding with the celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. The festivities kick off with a Fourth of July weekend from July 3 to July 5, featuring a poolside DJ, inflatable games, themed crafts, a specialty cocktail called Red, White, and Poured, and complimentary birthday cake.
Guests can extend that celebration into EPCOT using the resort’s complimentary boat transportation or its walking path. Where Soarin’ Across America has debuted as part of the America 250 programming, showcasing American landmarks and natural wonders. This has been set to a refreshed version of the Soarin’ soundtrack. Resort guests also benefit from Early Theme Park Entry. This helps guests get into select attractions before the general public.
From July to the end of August, the resort will launch its new Summer Concert Series. This event will feature live music, themed food trucks, and specialty cocktails, creating an energetic summer atmosphere that is open to both resort guests and visitors who purchase a resort pass. Additionally, seasonal savings are available through the Summer Story Worth Telling promotion, offering discounts starting at 25% off for Disney Annual Passholders, Florida residents, teachers, and other eligible guests.
The Bottom Line
For guests staying near EPCOT this summer. The Tour of Italy series is proof that some of the most memorable dining experiences at Walt Disney World do not require a park ticket. Just a reservation, an appetite, and a willingness to let dinner do the traveling.
