One of EPCOT’s NEWEST Restaurants Becomes One of Its LAST to Reopen
Japan is known worldwide for its incredible cuisine. From Sushi to hibachi and from ancient traditional cooking methods, to modern fusion iterations, Japan lacks nothing in the way of flavor or creativity. At EPCOT’s World Showcase this rich and diverse array of flavors is on full display! The pavilion is home to not one but three incredible table service restaurants, each as different as the flavors found in Japan. One in particular is truly a stand out: Takumi-Tei.
Takumi-Tei is the newest of the three restaurants on the pavilion and also one of its most interesting. Here the natural elements and splendor of Japan combine with the flavors of the island nation to create dishes that are one of a kind in a tranquil atmosphere that is unmatched anywhere else on Disney property. Japanese-inspired dishes like braised wagyu beef, roasted duck, maki sushi and yuzu cheesecake take center stage here. I can tell you from personal experience that the wagyu beef here is absolutely life changing.
The signature dining restaurant has been closed since Disney was forced to close in 2020 but according to their parent company, Mitsukoshi, guests will once again be able to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and upscale food. Next week the restaurant will reopen on November 23, 2022.
When it returns, it will likely come with some menu changes. Very few restaurants in the World Showcase reopened just as they were before. There are rumors of a prixe fix menu, which seems to be the direction many signature restaurants at Walt Disney World are heading. Mitsukoshi did not, however, confirm any menu changes when we called to inquire. They did confirm, though, that the restaurant will be walk-up seating only (no reservations accepted) for a while. They will eventually transition back to “reservations recommended” (which at Disney means required).