What is the ideal dinner time for Epcot?

[ehlander]

I have two ADRs for the Rose and Crown(5:15pm and 7:05). What is the better time slot for still finishing dinner in time to watch Illuminations? Our kids can eat at either time, but I heard that seating is always delayed, is that true? I know some folks can sit and watch Illuminations from the patio, but are chances low or high to getting a table there? Also is that what we really want anyway? We leave soon for our trip, so of course I am second guessing almost everything. Thanks for following our help!

 

[Accident]

I would budget 2 hours plus the time to get from where you want to eat to where you want to watch. That's worked well for me. most of the time, depending on size of party, 2 hours is much more time than you needed, but time to time you might find the restaurant is running a little behind and you have to wait 30-40 minutes just to be seated..

If illuminations is a must see, you might want to pad in even more time to ensure no delays will get in your way to see it.

 

[ehlander]

Wow! Is 40 min late normal???

 

[DekrRini]

Not normal, but possible. Coral Reef seems to have a reputation for being notoriously late, but I've not heard that about Rose and Crown. The times I've eaten at Rose and Crown I've never had to wait long, but then I get to the restaurants pretty early because I'm rather paranoid about being late anywhere.

 

[RLGNC]

I don't know about Rose and Crown, but we had a 7:15 ADR at San Angel Inn and it was perfect timing for seeing Illuminations right after. I would say, however, that we were seated very close to our ADR time.

 

[disneygolfer1985]

I would also ask when you are going because that might impact the ADR. If you have never seen illuminations and are going over a busier time, then I would take the earlier time so you're not rushed and then you can look for a good spot to view the show.

 

[ehlander]

We are going in two weeks, so I think the crowds are lower. At least according to the touring plans. They say it will be a 2. So would you stick with the later time?

 

[jtopp]

Go with the later time. Illuminations should start right about the time you are finishing dessert. Most of the restaurants surrounding the water have the soundtrack playing inside, and you can request a water view. They are really quite accommodating to families with children, so a simple request can get you closer to the show. Enjoy!!!!

 

[kappyfamily]

I would do the earlier time for sure. If you get hungry later there's plenty of spots for a snack! Have a great trip!

 

[DreamFlightCpt.]

Later the better for ADRs around the world showcase lagoon. La Hacienda de San Angel out side of the main Mexico building is probably one of the best places for dinner side fireworks.

 

[ehlander]

Thanks everyone for your input! I decided to keep the later dinner ADR, so will report back how it worked out for us.

 

[jhaig]

The only time we have ever waited more than 5 minutes is Le Cellier. We usually get there 30 minutes early anticipating not getting in on time.

 

[purple figment]

When you check in at the restaurant you can ask for a patio table, but there is no guarantee that you will get one because most make the same request. It will depend on how many before you are already waiting for a patio table, how busy the restaurant/park is that evening, and whether they are accepting requests or seating according to the next available table for your party size. The good thing about R&C is it is the only Epcot restaurant with a viewing area adjacent to the patio for diners of the restaurant who are seated inside. Just let your server know you want to see IllumiNations and they will pace your meal accordingly. Remind them just before fireworks and they will take you outside to the viewing area.

 

[ehlander]

All good to know, thanks! Just curious, but if we are sitting on the patio wouldn't our view get blocked somewhat by the folks standing there? Or is it tiered somehow?

 

[princesspiglet]

All good to know, thanks! Just curious, but if we are sitting on the patio wouldn't our view get blocked somewhat by the folks standing there? Or is it tiered somehow?

The tables on the patio are right up against the water and there are two levels. Both levels have excellent views. There is no way for anyone to stand in front of you as your table is right up against the bars.

https://www.google.com/search?q=pat...hXC6x4KHcttD5cQ_AUICCgD#imgrc=FqSQnKjQnLSzXM:


https://www.google.com/search?q=pat...hXC6x4KHcttD5cQ_AUICCgD#imgrc=3gN3a8GGklv7tM:

 

[ehlander]

Great! Will keep our fingers crossed that it isn't raining the night we go to Epcot! Thanks so much for posting the photos as well!