Crystal Palace? Coral Reef question…

[Once.Upon.A.Time]

Hi all,

My husband and I will be heading down to Disney in less than a month for a getaway. We have Epcot booked for our Epcot day (it’s the extra magic hours day). Our reservation is at 8:05pm. When do the fireworks start? I don’t think we actually ever stayed for Epcot fireworks in the past. Next question, is the Crystal Palace now buffet style? Do you find it to be worth the price? Haven’t been there years.

Thanks!

 

[Her Dotness]

Honestly, if you enjoy seafood, I wouldn't advise eating at Coral Reef.

We haven't eaten there more than a couple times several years ago and didn't think the food worth its cost at all. It still gets mediocre reviews at best.

I suggest trying for Flying Fish instead. Close enough to EP you can eat and pop through the International Gateway near fireworks time.

Crystal Palace for breakfast is a favorite of ours, however. We love those characters. The light-bright atmosphere really gets us going for our MK morning. Service is typically great as is the food.

Lunch or dinner there is okay but nothing spectacular. Again, we go for characters primarily. But, that's how character meals typically are--go for the fun, not the food.

 

[Marthasor]

You don't mention the date of your Epcot visit - if you look at the park hours for Epcot on that day, you will see the time Harmonious starts. It's typically 9 pm, but you should definitely double check. If they are at 9 pm and your reservation is at 8:05 pm, you will not see the show.

Crystal Palace is now a buffet. We had dinner there a few weeks ago. It was fine, but, no, the food was not worth the money. I would only go there if you really want to see Pooh & Friends.

 

[jemtx]

Haven’t been to Crystal palace since the characters came back. Did the buffet there a few times during COVID when there were no characters and it was only $39 and enjoyed it for dinner. I felt it was worth that lower price, however, not sure it’s worth the increased price of $55-60.

 

[StevieB81]

I agree 8:05 is too late to catch the fireworks. That and the seating timeliness and service pace at Coral Reef is very hit or miss, in my experience. As is the food. There are only like 5 entrees available, but I will say the mahi has been good when I've had it. We like Crystal Palace and will be trying to go on our next trip. The food has been decent for us in the past, but like others have said, we're not going for the food. Whether it's worth it, is very subjective.

 

[Once.Upon.A.Time]

Thank you all for the replies. What time do the Epcot fireworks usually begin?

 

[erionm]

What time do the Epcot fireworks usually begin?

Harmonious begins when Epcot closes which is typically 9 pm this time of year.

https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/entertainment/epcot/harmonious/