Hi Denise!
Mmmmm, your mere suggestion of the fabulous
Teppan Edo restaurant at the Japan pavilion in
EPCOT has my mouth watering! This is such a fun meal, as your family will be entertained by the incredibly talented chefs as they cook your personalized meal at a hibachi table for this group experience. I really enjoyed my time here and am happy to share what you can expect.
You are correct in that the official photos of the group dining experience at Teppan Edo show tables set for eight, but here’s what I advise. When you
make your dining reservation, you may have to make two smaller table reservations (for example, one for four guests and one for five guests) if the system does not allow you to make one reservation for a party of nine. Regardless of the physical table set-up, few restaurants allow parties larger than six or eight when making reservations anyway.
You can then arrive just before your reservation time (or stop by much earlier if you pass by on a lap around the World Showcase during your EPCOT day) and speak with the host team about your two reservations being one family who wishes to sit together. Even if the tables show eight seats, I suspect they will work to fit your family of nine comfortably and safely (especially knowing more than half of them are children and can sit closer together).
We have hibachi style restaurants in my hometown, but this Disney-exclusive experience was a feast for all four senses! Our chef was delightful while he cooked our meal with tradition and precision. I loved the fun Disney touches throughout, like a hidden Mickey in our onion rings, and the
flavors were delicious while we enjoyed classic Disney Cast Member magic and service. The location will make you feel miles away from a busy theme park as you’re immersed in the beautiful gardens of Japan and tucked away inside the pavilion, focused only on your meal.
I hope this gives you some next steps and peace of mind for booking and enjoying your delightful meal at Teppan Edo on your next EPCOT day, Denise. This fall,
EPCOT will be the epicenter of the Disney100 celebration at the Walt Disney World so I hope you get to experience some of the magic this legacy brings to the theme park if your trip is approaching.
Please come back and see us anytime as you plan your next Disney vacation! We’re ALL about the Disney details here at planDisney, and love to help you make the most of your experiences.
Itadakimasu (let’s eat!),
Amy