Suggestions on brunch/lunch and meal timing before a 1pm entry to Epcot at the International Gateway?

My amazing son, who is super excited for my upcoming two afternoons at Disney (combined with a work conference), pointed out to me this morning over breakfast that I will need to eat during the conference and that there is no better place to do that than Disney. :laughing: He further pointed out that it would be smart to enter Epcot through the IG since I am most excited for world showcase stuff. He suggested (and I think he’s right) that I should eat brunch/lunch at one of the hotels near the IG to Epcot.

I was thinking maybe Trattoria Al Forno at the Boardwalk resort, eating around 11:30, but I’d love to hear folks’ suggestions of where to eat and how early a reservation I would need if I want to make sure I’m tapping into the park at 1pm on the dot. I’m open to character meals, but delicious food is much more of a priority. Thank you so much for any suggestions you can offer!

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Ale & Compass is my personal favorite in that area. It’s a great deal, great food, perfect location for IG

I will say they have tended to run behind schedule for seating us at times.

But once seated it’s my fave!

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Trattoria is a fabulous choice. Their breakfast is my favorite non character breakfast.

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When we stayed at YC, we had breakfast at Ale & Compass and Trattoria. Love them both.

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Topolinos would make a good option too!

Technically you will be able to tap in at 12:47 if you want to squeeze out every minute.

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You could go for a long brunch and then take the Skyliner over to IG. @allison218 I hope you have a great time.

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what??? really!?!?! Thanks for another 13 minutes “in the world”!!!

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I’ll also recommend Ale & Compass for breakfast/brunch! What I really like about A&C is that you can order an entree just like any regular restaurant, but there’s also the option of buying a package which contains an entree + drink + access to their (small, but tasty) buffet section for an extremely reasonable price - $25, which for Disney prices is a pretty good deal.

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Woah! I did not realize that there was a option to plus up the meal with a drink and the buffet. Thanks for the intel!

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Just to clarify, they only do this for breakfast! (Which is why I recommend a late breakfast or brunch there.) They just have a regular menu at lunch and dinner, and I’ve never been during those times.

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