Solo dining in Epcot. Tutto Italia or Chefs de France?

[Cramden]

Hi there. I'm currently holding reservations for both but would like to cut one lose. Can anyone comment on if they feel one of these is better than the other, not just food-wise but also level of comfort for a solo diner. I eat everything and both have multiple items on the menu that appeal to me.

Also, my reservation at Tutto is for 7:15pm. Do you think that would give me enough time to finish and find a spot for Illuminations?

Thanks!

 

[krum]

That's a tough call. I haven't been to Chefs de France since 2010 because I've always found it to be kind of meh as far as French food is concerned, but it might be time to give it try. Good chance a 7:15 reservation will get you a spot for Illuminations though. They try to turn the tables as fast as possible.

 

[Cramden]

I appreciate the feedback krum. I'm slightly leaning toward Chefs only because it's a bit earlier of a reservation and there would be no concerns about finishing in time for Illuminations.

 

[StageTek]

I've eaten solo at both. I am never uncomfortable dining solo so I can't comment on the comfort level.

As with all the World Showcase restaurants the food is fine but hardly authentic. Granted I have done a lot of world traveling...

Both are worth trying. I get the impression you're primary concern is time. Go for Chefs so you won't feel rushed.

 

[Simba's Mom]

I've never eaten solo at Tutto, but I have (several times) at Chefs de France. I've always asked for, and almost always received, a window table-the people watching through the windows is a great way to pass the time. Just one warning-some people outside must think that they can see in but you can't see out, so they think nothing about coming right up to the window and staring at you and your food.

 

[Cramden]

Just one warning-some people outside must think that they can see in but you can't see out, so they think nothing about coming right up to the window and staring at you and your food.

LOL. That would be funny. I could have so much fun with that!!

 

[jillt2ph]

I have dined at both with others, and at Tutto solo. I really enjoyed Tutto as a solo diner. The tables are not as close together as they are at Chefs, so I was able to relax and be in my own zone. My server was attentive, but not intrusive. It was last October during F&W, so I was grateful for the respite from the crowds. And on the plus side, you won't have to share the olives and bread

At some places where tables are really close, I feel like I am intruding on my neighbor's conversations simply by being there. During dinner at the Turf Club one time, the family next to me basically adopted me for the meal since I was so close to them. They even decided to stay and have dessert with me!

Full disclosure...I am planning on dining solo at both Chefs and Tutto the first week of September, in addition to La Hacienda!!

Whichever one you decide on, you can always keep checking to try to move up your ADR time if you are that concerned about getting a spot for Illuminations.

 

[Lsdolphin]

I have dined at both with others, and at Tutto solo. I really enjoyed Tutto as a solo diner. The tables are not as close together as they are at Chefs, so I was able to relax and be in my own zone. My server was attentive, but not intrusive. It was last October during F&W, so I was grateful for the respite from the crowds. And on the plus side, you won't have to share the olives and bread

At some places where tables are really close, I feel like I am intruding on my neighbor's conversations simply by being there. During dinner at the Turf Club one time, the family next to me basically adopted me for the meal since I was so close to them. They even decided to stay and have dessert with me!

Full disclosure...I am planning on dining solo at both Chefs and Tutto the first week of September, in addition to La Hacienda!!

Whichever one you decide on, you can always keep checking to try to move up your ADR time if you are that concerned about getting a spot for Illuminations.

I will be arriving 8/30 until 9/5 thinking of going to Via Napoli but wondering if Tutto might be better.

 

[jillt2ph]

I will be arriving 8/30 until 9/5 thinking of going to Via Napoli but wondering if Tutto might be better.

I have only eaten at Via Napoli once, and that was with a party of 4. I like to relax a little during TS meals, and try to avoid the noisier places

 

[raddisneyfan]

I like both, but would go to Chefs de France if I had to choose between the 2. Neither would be a problem solo as I have done both several times on my own. There always seems to be a lot of solo diners at Chefs. Chefs seems to also bring the food faster if you are trying to view Illuminations. Have fun!

 

[Bete]

Either one is fine; I would choose Chef de France given a choice.

Depending on my mood and how friendly those around me seem to be I might start up a conversation with my neighbor especially if it's another solo.

I tend to order quickly; so, the wait is less. Browse the menus ahead of time.

 

[EdnaMarieMode]

My parents just had dinner at Chefs last Friday and are still raving about it. Tutto Italia is good, but I’d pick Chefs out of those two.

 

[Kimrlav]

I have eaten solo at both restaurants. As others have mentioned, it is nice as a solo diner to get a window seat at Chefs de France. The food is about the same quality for both restaurants. It has been a few years since dinner in Italy, but I found Chefs to be more of a quick turn-over type of dinner than leisurely dining. The onion soup is excellent at Chefs -- as a solo could have two appetizers and a nice glass of wine for dinner. One thing that I do not like in France is the announcement that you are a party of one when being seated.

Hope this helps with your decision.

Have a great solo vacation!

 

[karly05]

I have not done Tutto, but really enjoyed my solo lunch at Les Chefs a few years ago (had a window table without asking for it).

I would take the earlier reservation if I was concerned about Illuminations.

And I love Via Napoli. No, it's not in the "quiet and relaxing" category, but their pizza and tiramisu are my WDW Comfort Food.

 

[Cramden]

Thanks for all the replies! Chefs it is.

 

[captaindavidhook]

Ate solo at both places. Had a nice time at both places, but I think I really enjoyed Chef de France more. Either way, you cannot go wrong with your selection.

 

[Redbudlover]

Have eaten solo at both places many times and have to throw my vote for tuttos. Yes Chef is faster but when I have a signature dinner I don't want to rush it. They have fast food places for that. What I prefer about Tuttos is you are not crammed in elbow to elbow with your neighbors listening to their conversations because you do not have a companion to talk to yourself. The food is better at Tuttos. and there is a hug difference in service - Chefs is notorious for poor service. My preference is so strong I have chosen not to eat at Chefs my last five or six trips....