If you’ve spent any time wandering around Epcot, you know the food options can be a little overwhelming—in the best way. There’s something so fun about tasting your way through the World Showcase or checking out the latest dishes in Future World. But with so many choices, figuring out what drinks go well with what foods can feel like a bit of a guessing game.

I’ve been there, trying to match a sip with a bite without totally messing up the balance. Over time, though, I started noticing a few pairings that just click—whether it’s a crisp white wine with a flaky pastry or a cold beer that balances a spicy kick. If you’re planning a day at Epcot and want to make your food and drink stops a little more harmonious, here’s what I’ve come to enjoy.

Starting Light: Wine and Small Plates in the World Showcase

One of my favorite ways to explore Epcot’s food is by hitting up the small plates in the World Showcase, whether it’s a fresh bite from France or a savory snack from Italy. Wines here often feel like a natural fit because they highlight the flavors without overpowering them.

For example, the French pavilion is a classic spot to grab a glass of chardonnay or a light rosé. If you’re noshing on a flaky croissant sandwich or one of those little cheese plates, the acidity in the rosé cuts through the richness beautifully. It’s refreshing and keeps your palate interested without being heavy.

Over in Italy, the friendly vibe of a sparkling Prosecco pairs wonderfully with lighter pastas or seafood bites. There’s something about the bubbles that make those dishes feel even more festive. I usually lean toward white wines here rather than reds unless I’m going full-on pasta with a tomato sauce. The acidity and fruitiness in the wine help balance out that tangy sauce.

If you want to branch out beyond wine, some of the German beers around the World Showcase also mix well with appetizers. A lighter lager with a pretzel or sausage can be just the ticket when you want something cold and easygoing.

When You Want Something Heartier: Beer and Comfort Foods

Sometimes, you just want a meal that sticks to your ribs—no dainty bites. Epcot has a surprising number of spots where a good beer can make that comfort food even better.

Take the Biergarten in Germany, for instance. They offer traditional sausages, sauerkraut, and hearty potato dishes. Pairing those with a malty amber beer or a crisp pilsner can feel like a little slice of Bavaria. The beer’s bitterness balances the richness of the meats and cuts through the saltiness, which makes the meal feel less heavy even though it’s pretty filling.

If you’re strolling through Canada’s pavilion, their poutine or grilled meats go nicely with a stout or porter. The roasted notes in darker beers echo the char on the meat, and the creaminess of the gravy and cheese curds pairs surprisingly well with the smooth bitterness of the beer.

For me, beer at Epcot feels like a great way to slow down and savor food that’s a bit more substantial while keeping things casual and relaxed.

Sweet Endings: Dessert and Drinks That Play Well Together

No day at Epcot is complete without dessert, right? And choosing the right drink to follow—or even accompany—your sweet treat can make a noticeable difference.

I’ve found that lighter, sweeter wines (think Moscato or a late-harvest Riesling) can work well with fruity desserts without overwhelming the flavors. The cool thing is, these wines have enough sweetness to complement the dessert’s sugar but also some acidity to keep things from turning cloying.

If you’re more of a cocktail fan, some of the fruity or citrus drinks around Epcot’s lounges or festival booths pair nicely with chocolate. For example, a citrusy margarita or a berry-forward cocktail can provide a nice contrast to a rich chocolate mousse or brownie, cutting through that density with a little brightness.

The frozen drinks in the Mexico pavilion are another fun option here. Something like a frozen margarita or paloma can be a nice foil for a warm churro or flan—it’s a bit of a flavor handshake that feels right rather than overly sweet.

Little Surprises: Unexpected Pairings That Worked for Me

Sometimes, the best pairings come from just trying something without overthinking it. Like the time I grabbed a spicy tuna roll from the Japan pavilion and accompanied it with a cold Sapporo beer. The beer’s light bitterness and carbonation helped tame the heat and cleanse my palate between bites. It was a simple combo, but it made the flavors pop in a way I didn’t expect.

Another moment was when I paired a savory cheese and mushroom tart from the UK pavilion with a ginger beer. The spiciness of the ginger added a little kick that brought out the earthiness of the mushrooms. It felt like a little flavor adventure that I wouldn’t have planned but ended up really enjoying.

Those little surprises remind me that sometimes, it’s more about what you’re in the mood for rather than sticking to strict “rules.” Epcot is a big playground for the palate, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Wrapping It Up

Food and drink pairings at Epcot don’t have to be complicated. Often, it’s about going with what feels good—whether that’s a glass of wine that refreshes your bite, a beer that balances out a rich meal, or a cocktail that plays off a dessert’s flavors. The World Showcase in particular is a great place to experiment with international flavors and find combinations that work for you.

If you’re heading to Epcot soon, I’d say take your time and trust your taste buds. Sometimes, the best pairings happen when you least expect them. And no matter what you choose, the variety here means there’s always something to enjoy. Cheers to discovering your next favorite bite and sip!