WOO HOO!!!

We’re back at the Electric Umbrella in Epcot’s Future World!

Too much? Okay — I get it. It can be hard to muster up a ton of enthusiasm for the ol’ Umbrella. That’s not so much because of anything specifically wrong with it, per se.

But when your neighbors include counter service options like Katsura Grill, Tangierine Cafe, and Sommerfest just to name a few…well, the more standard options available at Electric Umbrella can pale in comparison. Even if you pit it against fellow Future World counter service option Sunshine Seasons, it’s gonna seem ho-hum.

But we’ve got to give some credit where it’s due. Over the past few years, the menu at Electric Umbrella has seen more changes than many other spots. Some have been successful (French Dip Burger!), and some not so much (Mac and Cheese Burger). In other words, there’s been some innovation here. (You might even call it innovention. 😉 )

Since our last meal here, there have been even more menu updates. So clearly, it was time for another visit.

Atmosphere

Electric Umbrella is such a great throw-back. Walk in, and you’ll probably feel pretty much transported back to the 1990s, when the restaurant opened.

The theming perfectly matches the name of the restaurant with large, prominent electric umbrellas and neon lighting along the main wall.

My favorite part of the totally awesome decor (I’m a child of the 80’s EPCOT themeing) has to be the large umbrella lights that hang over the dining area, though.

While they are primary-colored, you’ll also find pinks, purples, and other hues throughout the space. It doesn’t really match, but it all works together for that “ideal tomorrow” feel similar to Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom.

The restaurant is pretty large, so finding a place to sit is not as much of a problem as it would be in, say Tangierine Cafe across the lagoon.

There is also an upstairs dining area that’s available during the busier seasons in the park.

But if I have to choose (and the day isn’t too terribly hot), the outside seating area is ideal for people watching. It’s also covered by tarps, so you’re not drenched in sunlight.

The patio also offers a great view of the Innoventions Fountain. Since the fountain show, complete with music, takes place every 15 minutes, it’s fun to take it in while you dine.

But I promised a look at some new (and new-to-me!) dishes! So let’s head in to check them out.

Eats

Like most other Disney quick service spots, Electric Umbrella has several registers set up for taking orders.

Once you order your food and receive it, you can take advantage of the self-serve beverage station, which includes basic Coca Cola options.

Hot Chocolate, Coffee, and Iced Tea round out your choices.

The condiment station has standard toppings. Pumps dispense Mayo, Ketchup, Yellow Mustard, Barbecue Sauce, and Honey Mustard.

As far as the menu goes, you’ll find some great basics, including a Bacon Cheeseburger and Chicken Nuggets, which may be a relief to some guests who panic when faced with some of the more adventurous dining options offered throughout Epcot.

Still, I find there’s a little something for everyone. And with two interesting vegetarian options (we’ve reviewed one previously, and we’ll try the other in just a sec!) as well as some lighter fare, Electric Umbrella really might just fit the bill for everyone in a large group.

We’ve enjoyed the French Dip Burger and the Vegetarian Flatbread during other visits. But this time, I was out to try a few new things.

Since the overall consensus has been positive, I decided to start with the Sausage and Pepper Sandwich.

The sandwich is served with a side of French Fries, which were fresh and hot. (You can also opt for Grapes as a side if you prefer.)

As for the main event, the sandwich is certainly on the hefty side, packed with lots of Sausage and Roasted Vegetables.

The sausage has a kick to it, but that was a plus for me.

The veggies and sausage were served in a hearty Marinara Sauce, making it more of a take on a meatball sub instead of an onions and peppers sausage sammy.

It’s also topped with a thick blanket of melted Provolone Cheese.

The sum of all the parts here was deliciousness! The sandwich is definitely a winner, and is a good choice if you’re looking for a hearty meal or some comfort food flavor.

But it wasn’t the only option I tried. I also went for the Veggie Naan Wich. Talk about polar opposites! This one is served with a choice of Fries or Grapes as well.

A large loaf of Naan, or Indian Flatbread, acts as a wrap of sorts for an assortment of Broccoli Slaw and Edamame. 

The shredded veggies tasted really fresh and crisp and were coated in a Tofu Wasabi Dressing. I asked a Cast Member about the dressing since it wasn’t on the overhead menu, and she told me that it was akin to a Creamy Horseradish. To be honest, I didn’t detect a whole lotta flavor here — odd, since wasabi is anything but bland. Mostly, I just tasted Mayo. Still, surprisingly, it worked.

And I suspect that was because of my favorite part of this sandwich: the Naan. It actually had lots of Herbs baked right in, so it really upped the flavor profile and complemented the veggies perfectly. I pre-judged this item a little bit, assuming that it would be boring. But I’m happy to say I was completely wrong!

Beyond the entrees, there were some new side and snack items that I wanted to try, too.

Well. To be clear, the Ranch-style Coleslaw and Tomato Bisque are new, but the Fanta Blue-Raspberry Slushy has been available here for some time. It is worth noting that they also have a Pineapple-Coconut Slush. I think I’ll be making a return trip soon. 🙂

But back to the reviews at hand — the Ranch-Style Coleslaw is pretty much just that — Coleslaw with a Ranch Dressing.

It’s nothing too fancy, but the slaw tasted fresh and crunchy, and might be a good alternative if you’re looking to ditch the fries and you’ve had your fill of Disney Apple Slices and Grapes.

I also sampled the Tomato Bisque Soup.

Served with a side of Oyster Crackers, this soup was well-seasoned and creamy. I thought it was a nice option for a lighter meal.

Although it isn’t a new item, on this visit I also decided to try the Chocolate Cupcake. I mean, why not? On a previous visit, we really enjoyed the Strawberry Cheesecake. Maybe this would be another hidden gem.

I really liked the colors, and how the blue and white icing echoes some of the EU themeing. The colorful sprinkles on top complete the look.

While it was nothing to write home about (Sunshine Seasons is still the Epcot King of Cupcakes), it was fresh, and I welcomed the familiar flavors.

If you’re craving Kid Birthday Party Chocolate Cake (and seriously — who doesn’t), then this one’s for you.

Overall

Electric Umbrella continues to be my quick-fix when I want some Epcot Future World nostalgia. And it’ll definitely fit the bill when you have picky eaters in your party and just want to stick to the basics!

For this reason alone, I still think that Electric Umbrella serves an important purpose.

Now we wanna hear from you! What are your top reasons for choosing Electric Umbrella for lunch or dinner? Leave a comment and tell us about your favorites!