C'est Magnifique!
Written: May 25 '07
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Product Rating:
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Pros: Bistro De Paris is the most amazing restaurant in Disney, and the movie is excellent
Cons: Not very child-oriented
The Bottom Line: France is an excellent place for couples to escape the crowds and relax, as well as to get a bite to eat at the finest restaurant on Disney property!
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| duke101's Full Review: Walt Disney World Epcot - France |
The best part about the France pavilion at EPCOT Center is that it is so well-balanced and has a little something for everyone.
First off, France features one of only three movies throughout the International pavilions (the others being in China and Canada), and of the three movies, this is the only one where you can sit down in an audience style theater, in contrast to the 360 degree screens where you stand in the middle of the room. However, the film "Impressions De France," is still on several screens which are supposed to cover 200 degrees, and therefore give you a very similar effect to the 360 degree screens given that your eyes can only cover so much range at once.
"Impressions De France" is also the most enjoyable film to watch in EPCOT Center, featuring a glimpse at the French countryside, and of course, the city of Paris, with only limited narration that does not detract from the scenery. The best part of the film, however, would have to be the soundtrack, a collage of music from classical French composers which I liked so much, I used it just before my wedding ceremony as guests were coming in (my wedding having been held at EPCOT Center, albeit in the Italy pavilion).
However, I should stress that this movie is really only engaging for adults, and children will likely get bored.
That being said, you can still enjoy the French pavilion with children, as the Beauty and the Beast characters Belle and the Beast often frequent this pavilion to give autographs and take pictures.
The pavilion also houses some other good picture spots, such as an elegant fountain near the front, and even a replica of the Eiffel Tower (albeit a little awkwardly placed towards the back).
But where the France pavilion shines most of all is in its cuisine. France is home to not just one, but two restaurants, not counting a wonderful French bakery with tasty pastries (I'm particularly fond of the lemon tart, even though they don't label it on the menu and you have to know to ask for it).
The first restaurant, which is located on the ground floor, is Chefs De France. It is the more family-oriented and affordable choice of the two restaurants, but it's also a lot less authentic. I can't say I've had a bad time at Chefs De France, but it's just not a "wow" experience.
If you want the "wow" experience, you'll have to go upstairs to the upscale restaurant Bistro De Paris. Now I'm going to make a bold statement and tell you that Bistro De Paris is far and away the best restaurant I have ever eaten at on Disney property, and in fact, it's one of the best restaurants I've ever been to anywhere in the world.
One of the things that makes Bistro De Paris so special, aside from the amazing food prepared by master chefs, is the atmosphere, which feels completely removed from the rest of the park. In fact, you'll rarely see children in the restaurant, and many people tend to be dressed up for the visit, although this is not really necessary and children are still welcome. It's quiet, there's plenty of room between tables, and if you get seated by the window, you can even get a great view of the nighttime fireworks show "Illuminations."
The only catch is the bill, which is going to be very pricey, but believe me, it's well worth it, and I do not feel any trip to Disney World would be complete with a visit to Bistro De Paris.
All in all, the France pavilion is an amazing place for adults, and even a lot of fun for children who are curious about what France looks like (obviously on a much smaller scale). After my latest visit, I'm contemplating planning a trip to the real France, but in the meantime, at least I've got some pictures of my make-believe visit to enjoy.
Recommended:
Yes
Best Suited For: Couples
Best Time to Travel Here: Sep - Nov
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Epinions.com ID:
duke101
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Member: Adam
Reviews written: 174
Trusted by: 16 members
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