Archive for August 23rd, 2009

It’s twilight in the village and the sky has turned a deep cobalt blue.  A Mayan pyramid looms close by and in the distance, a volcano glows and smokes.  In the courtyard just beyond the cheerful evening marketplace, colorful tables and chairs beckon hungry shoppers to sit by the river and enjoy the local fare.  The beautiful San Angel Inn, located inside the Mexico pavilion at the World Showcase in EPCOT, serves lunch and dinner in south-of-the-border style.

Review: This restaurant always garners mixed reviews for its highly Americanized and recently pared-down menu.  While certainly a cut above the local fast-food offerings, many of the items, although arguably more authentic, will seem bland to lovers of true Mexican cuisine.  The popular Plato Mexicano has been removed from the menu, and a very nice ceviche is only available intermittently.

The  atmosphere is truly stunning but the dining experience is marred somewhat by tables which are far too close together, making it difficult for the wait staff to move through some areas, and for diners to enjoy a private conversation.  Service seems very hit or miss; sometimes outstanding, sometimes slow and uninspired.

While many refer to the ambience as “very romantic,” there’s nothing romantic about the constant camera flashes near the front of the restaurant from those hoping to capture a photo of the beautiful interior.   Arrive early for your reservation and request a table by the river to enjoy the boats drifting by.

San Angel Inn

Mexico, World Showcase, EPCOT

Lunch 11:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Dinner 4:30 p.m. to park closing

Park admission required