Visitors to Connections Eatery at EPCOT may notice something a little different the next time their food arrives at the counter. The quick-service restaurant, a favorite among EPCOT regulars, has replaced its ceramic plates with paper plates — a small but noticeable shift in the dining experience.
What set Connections Eatery apart from many of its quick-service counterparts was that ceramic dishware, which gave the spot a slightly elevated feel despite its casual format. Guests ordering items like the BBQ Chicken Pizza were served on sturdy plates more reminiscent of a table-service meal than a typical counter-service stop.
The switch to paper raises some questions around Disney's publicly stated sustainability commitments, though it's worth noting that paper plates may be recyclable. Beyond the environmental angle, longtime fans of the restaurant simply say the change takes a bit of the shine off what had felt like a cut-above quick-service experience.
If you have a visit to Connections Eatery on the horizon, it's worth knowing the vibe has shifted slightly — the food remains the same, but the presentation is decidedly more casual now. Disney has not issued an official statement explaining the reason for the change.
This dining update was first reported by the Disney Food Blog.
