Is EPCOT’s Kakigōri a Must-Try Disney Snack?
A Snack That Stands Out in EPCOT
There are plenty of snacks to be found in EPCOT, but few are as fun and refreshing as kakigōri. This Japanese shaved ice dessert looks like it belongs in a summer festival, piled high with bright syrup and, if you’re smart, topped with sweet cream. It’s big, bold, and colorful enough to stop you in your tracks. And when the Florida sun is blazing down and you feel like you are melting faster than a Mickey Premium Bar, kakigōri might just save the day.
A Return Worth Making
I had tried kakigōri once years ago, but I had never gone for the sweet milk cream topping. People kept telling me it was a game changer, so on this visit, I finally gave in. And they were right.
Kabuki Café is where the magic happens. This walk-up stand next to the Japan pavilion may look unassuming, but it hides some yummy treasures. Beyond kakigōri, you can grab sake slushies, sushi, beer, wine, or a refreshing drink to take along on your World Showcase journey. Still, the star of the menu is that mountain of shaved ice.
First Impressions
When my kakigōri was handed to me, I had to laugh because it was enormous. The cup was piled so high it looked like it might topple over, and the bright blue syrup made it glow in the Florida sunshine.
It came with both a straw and a spoon, and you absolutely need them. At $9, it is pricier than a popcorn bucket refill, but the size makes it easy to share. I went with the Blue Hawaii flavor, which is one of the most popular choices, and it looked like a snow cone that had leveled up.
Flavor and Fun
The first bite stopped me in my tracks. The sweet milk cream topping did not just add flavor, it completely changed the experience. Instead of just ice with syrup, it turned into something richer, almost like a creamy milkshake melting into the shaved ice. Thick, sweet, and smooth, it blended perfectly with the icy base.
The Blue Hawaii syrup itself had a bright, blue raspberry vibe. It was fruity, refreshing, and the kind of flavor that feels instantly fun. There are other toppings too, like mandarin orange and strawberry creme, and I know I will be trying them on future visits. Kakigōri is not just a snack, it’s an experiment. You can mix and match flavors and toppings until you find your perfect combination.
The Perfect Hot Day Treat
There is something about sitting in EPCOT with a kakigōri in your hands that just feels right. I carried mine up to the steps behind the pagoda, found a shady spot, and let myself slow down. EPCOT can feel like a marathon sometimes, but this was the pause that made the afternoon manageable. Bonus points: kakigōri is ridiculously photogenic. Between the bold colors, the towering size, and the Japan pavilion backdrop, it’s basically begging to be part of your Disney trip photo album.
Why It Belongs on Your Must-Do List
Kakigōri stands out in a sea of Disney snacks because it is refreshing without being heavy, sweet without being over the top, and unique enough to feel special. This is an authentic Japanese treat, presented in a way that is both cultural and fun.
The sweet cream topping is the secret weapon. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to plain syrup again. It’s that extra touch that takes kakigōri from being a simple ice treat to something you will remember and want to repeat. It definitely did for me.
Final Thoughts
Kakigōri is now officially a must-do snack for me in EPCOT. It’s huge, refreshing, customizable, and perfect for those hot afternoons when you need to cool down and recharge. Whether you choose Blue Hawaii, Lemon (the one I’ll be trying next time), or any of the flavors, do yourself a favor and say a hearty yes to the sweet cream topping.
Next time you’re exploring World Showcase, stop at Kabuki Café, grab this towering treat, and enjoy a few quiet moments in the shade. Kakigōri is not just a snack, it’s a little Disney memory waiting to happen.
You can virtually join me as I try the kakigori in the video below:
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