Epcot World Showcase - France
France Pavilion
The France Pavilion is a bit deceptive at first glance. Tucked away behind the Monsieur Paul restaurant (one of Epcot's best), is an alleyway where the Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie is found. This is a fancy way of saying bakery and is not to be missed.
When you approach France from the United Kingdom, you stroll over the Pont des Arts inspired footbridge. This spot is reminiscent of the the Seine waterfront, complete with flower carts and streetside artists.
The center fountain is a great place to sit, relax and people watch.
The 'streets' are lined in cobblestones and as you explore the pavilion, you'll hear romantic tunes being played. Speaking of romance, there's no greater love than the Beauty and the Beast. You'll often find Belle and Aura meeting and greeting guests. (Check the park schedule for appearances.)
When you think of France, two things may come to mind, wine and perfume. You won't be disappointed as both are well represented in the shops. When you sit at one of the bistro tables tucked into the passageways while sipping a glass of champagne with a freshly baked croissant, you'll truly feel as if you've been transported to Paris.
There are several carts scattered around. You can shop for souvenirs, get a made to order crepe or visit the wine kiosk which has fantastic Grey Goose vodka and Grand Marnier slushies.
Adding to the authenticity is the "Eiffel Tower." This much photographed landmark is 1/10th the size of the actual tower and was built following the blueprints of Gustave Eiffel.
The Impressions de France film is shown throughout the day in the Palais du Cinema. The best thing about this movie is that you actually get to sit. (A nice departure from the Circle Vision movies in China and Canada.)
ARTICLE: What Time Does Impressions de France Play in EPCOT?
This film is an 18-minute trip through France, giving guests a glimpse into the beauty of both the French countryside and the densely-populated cities. See the palace of Versailles, winemakers, hot air balloons and the celebration of Bastille Day, all set to a beautiful soundtrack of French composers. In other words, it's very relaxing.
A Beauty and the Beast sing-along show has been added to the France pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase and plays in addition to Impressions de France. Check the My Disney Experience app or pick up a daily Times Guide at the park entrance for the most up-to-date showtimes.
Another newer addition to the France pavilion is the Tale As Old As Time: French Storytelling on Stage and Screen display. The all-new exhibit provides guests with the opportunity to explore six gallery cases featuring a collection of costumes, music, artwork and more, all dedicated to the adaptation of French literature in cinema, theater, ballet, and opera.
Remy's Ratatouille Adventure opened on October 1, 2021, and is themed after the much-loved 2007 Disney-Pixar film Ratatouille. Chef Skinner chases guests through Gusteau’s Parisian restaurant on a trackless ride system.
ARTICLE: Diving into the Details Found in EPCOT’s France Pavilion Expansion!
ARTICLE: The Full Guide to Dining at EPCOT’s France Pavilion
The France Pavilion has a lot to offer, and when it comes to eating, whether a meal or a snack, it can't be beat.
Les Chefs de France - This is one of Epcot's overlooked gems. Many of the tables overlook the 'streets' of France and give you a bird's eye view of the comings and goings while you enjoy your delicious meal. The tables are covered in crisp white linens, the interior is light and airy and the service is always top notch.
Monsieur Paul - This is an upscale signature dining restaurant that is only open for dinner from 5:30 to 7:30. If 'elegance' is something you seek, this gourmet spot is one to consider.
At the Les Halles Boulangerie Patisserie, You'll find croissants, eclairs, mousse, quiche, souffles, tarts, cheese platters, and sandwiches accompanied by French roast coffee.
ARTICLE: Three Reasons To Love the French Bakery in EPCOT
A new crêperie – La Crêperie de Paris – brings additional authentic French cuisine to EPCOT. This eatery is located near the Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure attraction and features celebrity chef Jérôme Bocuse’s dishes. Bocuse is the expert behind the France pavilion’s Chefs de France brasserie and its signature restaurant, Monsieur Paul.
The crêperie’s menu is inspired by the Brittany region of France and offers table service dining as well as a quick-service area featuring galettes (savory crepes) and sweet crepes.
There are an abundance of shops, and merchandise, to choose from in the pavilion of France. Perfumes and colognes are the featured items in the "Plume et Palette." Chanel, Escada, Givenchy, and Lacoste can be found as well as two Parisian perfumiers, Jean Patou and Annick Goutal. The "Guerlain" signature store not only features fragrances but has their full line of cosmetics.
At "La Maison du Vin", guests can sample wines (for a fee) and purchase their favorite French wines along with a variety of wine accessories. Maxim’s de Paris chocolates, cookies, Marat D’Avignon kitchen linens, soaps by E.Barret & Co., and Emile Henry cookware are other items offered in this store.
“Souvenirs de France” carries the typical type of French souvenir like the beret, miniature Eiffel Tower, t-shirt, and the Paris purse. The more interesting items are the many books on French artists, cities, and the language itself, and the infant toys by Latitude Enfant. All areas of the France pavilion are wheelchair accessible.
FUN FACT: Say "hello" in French by saying "bonjour" (bohn-ZHOOR).
HIDDEN MICKEYS: Check out the grates at the base of the trees.
Disney Park Bench Video
