The Solo Scale:
It’s true that you can find teppanyaki in most cities & suburbia as it’s a popular concept these days. It’s also something you can choose to enjoy at Epcot if you’re looking for a dining option. I’ve been to the restaurant twice. Admittedly it is a better option if you’re with a group, and especially if you’ve got kids with you. If you’re riding solo, this is probably a pass, due to budget, food amounts, and the group seating set-up.
That said, if you love teppanyaki or you’ve got a family or group of friends who do, it’s a must-do. Maybe you’re an extrovert and you’re eager to make some new friends. If that’s the case, then make your reservation today!
When you arrive at the Japan pavilion, take your time to go through the Mitsukoshi Department Store, under the restaurant. It’s a fantastic place to get souvenirs that are truly unique, and one of the best shops in the World Showcase. Also, this is a great place to take pictures of the lagoon and Future World in the background.
When you’re ready to eat, head up the stairs and you’ll be able to enter the restaurant. Check in (if you have reservations) or see if they have room. Once the table is ready, the host will call you back and escort you to your table. Depending on the size of your party, you may be sharing with some brand new friends. A server will greet you and take your drink order, so that way you can have something to satiate your parched throat. This is especially important if you’ve been walking around Epcot all day, and this is a good time as any for a reminder to always hydrate, hydrate, hydrate when you’re walking the World Showcase, especially if you’re also drinking.
Soon, your chef will come out and take your food order. The menu tends to run more typical teppenyaki, but you don’t have to order the full meal. Both times I went, I had been snacking around Epcot at Festival booths. Instead of a full meal, I found it lighter to order off the appetizer menu and get sushi & miso soup. Two other people in my party split one full entree, so that’s an option if you worry about stomach space.
One of the perks of eating at Teppan Edo is the show. While you meet your waiter first, their primary objective is taking drink & meal orders. This is necessary for your chef so that they’re able to prepare the ingredients they’ll need for the show.
If you’ve been to a teppanyaki or hibachi style restaurant, the patter won’t differ too much, though some of the details will shift. Instead of a volcano, you might get Olaf. Instead of shrimps, you might hear them called Nemo. You’ll get your food as it’s prepared, which makes it fresh and piping hot. It can be a lot of food, but it’s all going to be extremely delicious and Teppan Edo is no change. Over the multiple times I’ve eaten there, I’ve never been disappointed with anything, whether it was from the grill or the appetizer menu.
Take this warning to heart — the restaurant can get hectic and crowded. The tables are stacked together and you’ll be warned not to walk behind the chefs for safety’s sake, so keep that in mind as you navigate through the tight spaces. However, once you’re seated, you have a drink, and your plate is full of food, the only thing left to do is enjoy the show and the food!
To learn more and check for reservations, visit the Teppan Edo website here!
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