Via Napoli
(photos below!)

A recent addition to the restaurant offerings in the Italy pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase is Via Napoli, an Italian pizzeria located in the rear of the pavilion. Like Tutto Italia, also located here, Via Napoli is a table service eatery (there are no counter service establishments in Italy, unless you include an outdoor vending facility on the World Showcase Promenade).

The big draw here is, of course, pizza. And terrific pizza it is! Made with ingredients either imported from Italy or domestically sourced with the idea of matching as closely as possible those used in Italy, the pizza is delicious. In addition, there are a number of other Italian entree offerings here, as well as appetizer and dessert selections. Of the items Aronda and her team have sampled, all have been excellent. 

The building is large and imposing, though at the same time very comfortable. The atmosphere is relaxed here, with attentive service from a friendly staff. Large windows on the front of the shop as well as down the side and even in the back (positioned high on the wall so you'll not be able to see what's backstage) provide lots of natural light during the daylight hours. The ceilings are incredibly high; coupled with the tile floors, the noise level can be a little distracting. 

The iced tea here is fresh brewed, with a fruit flavor which works well to make for a very refreshing drink. A specialty here is Acqua Fresca, which is a seasonal fruit juice cooler. In August 2010, just a few weeks after Via Napoli opened, the three flavors offered were Lemonata, Blood Orange, and Strawberry, though they may change from time to time. Aronda and her team didn't try the Acqua Fresca, however, opting instead for a pitcher of Sangria! The pitcher costs about 3 times as much as a glass, but has quite a few glasses in it (we lost count!). The Sangria here is delicious, but keep in mind that it's quite potent, so if you opt for the pitcher be sure you have enough people in your party to drink it all.

Pricing here is on the steep side (see the menu), but we feel that the food is worth it. When on vacation, might as well enjoy yourself! Via Napoli honors the Tables in Wonderland discount (formerly known as the Disney Dining Experience), so if you have a card, be sure to show it to take 20% off your bill. For Guests using the Disney Dining Plan, this restaurant is worth one (1) table service credit.

Be sure to eat at Via Napoli on your next visit to Walt Disney World! This is one of those restaurants which adults and kids alike can agree upon, and there'll be plenty of smiles and "yummy" sounds from everyone!

In the far rear of the Italy pavilion stands the new Via Napoli restaurant

The theming outside is beautiful

A huge, colorful chandelier greets Guests in the foyer

The dining area is pleasantly appointed

Large windows high on the rear wall admit lots of sunlight

A couple of Aronda's staffers prepare to enjoy lunch at Via Napoli

The pitcher of Sangria is a great deal!

Bright natural light creates a friendly, relaxed atmosphere in which to dine at lunch

Very high ceiling! This looks toward the front of the building; the glassed in area is the entrance

Servers' beverage stations are on the dining room floor. The dispensers hold the Acqua Fresca

For the menu at Via Napoli, click here. 
Last updated Saturday, August 14, 2010

For the kids menu at Via Napoli, click here. 
Last updated Saturday, August 14, 2010