Hi Sarah!
Welcome to planDisney! Now, we invite you to relax, let us pull a chair, as we proudly present. . .your answer!
Sarah, there is nothing I enjoy more than a
great character dining experience at Walt Disney World Resort, and you've picked one of my favorite hidden gems in the
Garden Grill Restaurant. Located inside The Land Pavilion at
EPCOT, this restaurant features all-you-care-to-enjoy favorites served "family style" to your table. As a mom with a toddler, I always appreciate table service rather than juggling my little one and plates of food at the buffet. There is nothing quite like enjoying a yummy Mickey Waffle with Chip 'n' Dale to start your day!
You were also fortunate to grab a great reservation, as an 8:30 AM seating allows you plenty of time to enjoy your meal and then have a full day to explore all EPCOT has to offer. You are correct that
Early Theme Park Entry is a benefit reserved for Guests staying in the Disney Resorts Collection or other select hotels, but I have good news for you! Any Guest with a dining reservation scheduled before the park officially opens can enter the park early to enjoy their breakfast. When you arrive at EPCOT, look for the dedicated line for Guests with pre-park opening reservations. This is typically to the far left or far right of the entrance gates, and a Cast Member can assist you in locating it if you need help. Once the Cast Member verifies your dining reservation, they'll
scan your admission and allow you to enter. For an 8:30 AM dining reservation, I'd suggest planning to be at the entrance around 8:00 AM.
Before leaving The Land Pavilion, you may want to check wait times for
Soarin' Around the World and
Living with the Land. Both of these attractions are always on my must-ride list! If you're planning to purchase
Lightning Lane passes, I would recommend making your first selection between 9:30 AM and 10:30 AM for one of these attractions since you'll be right near their entrances when you finish breakfast!
Sarah, I hope this information has been helpful and that you enjoy a fabulous breakfast at Garden Grill, followed by a truly magical day at EPCOT! Remember, you're always welcome to "Be Our Guest" here at planDisney, so please stop by again with any other questions!
Bon Appétit!
Kristi