Epcot Quick-Service Duel: Sunshine Seasons vs Electric Umbrella

When you’re in Epcot, there are so many things to see and do, you want to make the most of every second. It only makes sense to save some time by dining at one of the park’s many counter-service locations. But which one?

Heading into Epcot for a bite?

When we think of the restaurants in this category, two come immediately to mind: Electric Umbrella and Sunshine Seasons, both in Future World. One is definitely better than the other, at least in our books. Hear us out as we walk through our reasoning.

Why We Love Sunshine Seasons

Seating

Seating and decor at Sunshine Seasons

At Sunshine Seasons, you can almost always find a table. The vast dining room seats hundreds of guests at a time. There are four different areas in which you can pull up a chair or snuggle into a cozy booth. The theme of the sections corresponds to the seasons, so it’s easy to track down your friends if the party wants to split up. Just look for the pattern printed on the tables to figure out where to go.  The rest of the decor might seem bland, but take a look up to see long lengths of fabric and hot air balloons. You’ll feel like you’re at a festival with the bright colors and fun artwork decorating the four aircrafts.

Menu

Oak-Grilled Rotisserie Chicken from the Grill Shop

Sunshine Seasons is set up food court-style. This makes it easy to pick and choose exactly what you and your family want (or what they don’t want). There’s something for everyone to love, among the various “shops”: Asian Noodle, Grill, Sandwiches, Soups & Salads, Kids’ Zone, and Bakery. There are tons of items to grab and go, like fruit, chips, and energy bars. Don’t forget that this location even serves alcoholic beverages. My mouth waters every time I enter the Land pavilion and smell the aromas of all the tasty items cooked up at Sunshine Seasons (not to mention the nearby Garden Grill Restaurant). By the way, did you know that many of the items served at these locations are made with food fresh from the greenhouses seen on the Living with the Land ride?

Why We Still Love Electric Umbrella

Interior of Electric Umbrella

Seating

Electric Umbrella has a cool, futuristic concept that ties right in with Future World. The dark paint color on the walls makes the red umbrella decor pop. You can head upstairs for some seating under lit umbrellas in primary colors. At night, this restaurant lights up just like the name. You’ll find adequate seating here; there are also tables outdoors to enjoy.

Ask a cast member for help ordering allergy-friendly options that fit your needs.

The menu at Electric Umbrella features mostly burgers, wraps, and sandwiches. You can get a healthy salad and kids’ options there as well. You can pick up a beer and even dessert, but the best thing about this menu is the allergy-friendly aspect. Whether you have a restricted diet or just a sensitivity, head over to Electric Umbrella to find gluten/wheat-free, fish/shellfish-free, egg-free, dairy-free, soy-free, and peanut/tree nut-free choices.

What Do Our Reviewers Have to Say?

Sunshine Seasons

Bakery Shop at Sunshine Seasons

If you take a glance through our Rate and Review section, it’s clear that guests love Sunshine Seasons. It scored an 8.3 out of 10 overall! That’s great for a counter-service location.

Reviewer Scottmop says, “A great place for your counter service. Lots of good choices and healthy choices, too. Lots of different dessert choices as well. And with Living with the Land and Soarin’ right there it makes it a good spot. I got the sweet and sour chicken which came with rice. A nice portion for lunch.”

“A good quick-service choice for a vegan. This is one of the few places that have vegan food on the menu and not make it something you have to special order. For about $15 you can get a vegan entree, drink and side dish. The place can get crowded and the noise level is high, but don’t forget where you’re at. Soarin’ is right around the corner so the crowds will be there. I come here every time I’m in Epcot,” says AllEars.net reviewer DeanMoriarity.

Electric Umbrella

Outdoor seating at Electric Umbrella

Electric Umbrella only scored a 7.1 out of 10 overall from our readers. Comparatively speaking, that’s still OK for a quick-service spot. Looks like our reviewers agree with us.

Ktuckermk said, “My son and I both got the French Dip and it was delicious, probably one of the best burgers we have gotten on site. The fries were hot and crispy, the indoor seating was a bonus.”

“You have all kinds of food here. From fries to salad. The rotisserie chicken is very good and tender. If you are not on the dining plan, an adult plate can be shared between two kids, the portion are large enough,” said reviewer Doironi.

Whichever of these Epcot quick-service spots you choose, remember you can save even more time by ordering your meal in advance with the mobile order function in the My Disney Experience app!

Which is YOUR favorite? Tell us in the comments below or leave a review for Sunshine Seasons or Electric Umbrella. To find out more about Sunshine Seasons, see photos and the full menu on our info page. Or follow the link to our info page for Electric Umbrella to discover more and read through the full menu there.

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Debra Martin Koma wrote about food, travel and lifestyle issues for a number of local and national publications before she fell in love with Walt Disney World on her first visit — when she was 34! She's returned to her Laughing Place more times than she can count in the ensuing years, and enthusiastically shares her passion with readers of AllEars.Net and AllEars®. Deb also co-authored (along with Deb Wills) PassPorter's Open Mouse for Walt Disney World and the Disney Cruise Line, a travel guide designed for all travelers to Walt Disney World who may require special attention, from special diets to mobility issues.

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