What We’ve Learned About The Ratatouille Expansion at Epcot

Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is getting ready to open at Epcot Center! Since the upcoming attraction is basically a complete copy of its Disneyland Paris counterpart, there isn’t much about which to speculate. We pretty much know all of the details and particulars about the ride. The only questions is, “What will the unload platform look like without huge windows into Bistrot Chez Remy?”

Plus, thanks to YouTube, we even know the ride’s scene sequence and dialogue (though presumably Epcot’s version will be entirely in English). If you’re interested in the POV from the Paris parks, here’s the full video:

The new park expansion surrounding the actual attraction, however? That’s a different story. Though much of the construction has been visible from the Disney Skyliner, we were recently able to get an even closer look at the area. A new alleyway opened in the France Pavilion last week, complete with a set of restrooms, a brand new stroller parking area, and visible facades. While that doesn’t sound like much, it was enough to excite many Disney fans AND reveal a few more details about this upcoming park improvement!

The new area will feel pretty upscale.

Even though the France expansion is centered on this new attraction, it doesn’t appear that the surrounding areas will be themed after Remy or any other Disney characters. Instead, the restrooms, landscaping, and facades felt very upscale and fancy. For example, the bathroom was decorated with dark tones, ornate walls, and furnishings you would find in a nice hotel or casino.

The decision to avoid heavy character theming makes sense as the World Showcase is focused on highlighting diverse cultures and countries. While Disney-themed attractions and experiences are sprinkled throughout the area, they are not intended to distract from the global representation. However, from the both the Skyliner pictures (taken of the construction) and promotional materials we do know that the expansion will feature a Ratatouille inspired fountain in the center of the square (much like its sister area in Disneyland Paris).

France is getting a sizable expansion.

This isn’t just an extra attraction that’s been plopped into an existing corner of the park. An entirely new piece of the France Pavilion is opening, and it’s pretty large! While most of the actual square footage is reserved for an extended queue area, the Remy fountain, and the all-new Crêpes À Emporter; it’s still an impressive addition to the World Showcase.

Crepes aside, you don’t really get a sense of how large this area will be until you stand in the new alleyway, facing the construction wall. You might only be able to see a very tiny piece of the expansion, but it’s enough. Looking over the wall, you’ll notice multiple new facades and a Gusteau’s sign… waaayyyyy in the back. Even though we know that this sign is not directly over the attraction entrance, it’s still an indication of the size of this expansion.

The Epcot Ratatouille Expansion will have different Paris vibes.

With its cobblestone streets and closely set buildings, the current pavilion is reminiscent of a busy street in the metro center. But “pretty and cramped” isn’t the only attitude in the City of Love. The new expansion features a very different feel from the rest of the area with landscaping you would find in a park near the Louvre. And with the new, overlook views of the Crescent Lake canals, you could almost believe you’re strolling next to the Seine River (if you squint really hard). This new style will bring a whole new dimension to the pavilion.

Final Thoughts on the Ratatouille Expansion at Epcot

While I wasn’t incredibly impressed by the original Paris version, I expect the overall expansion to be a fun addition to the France Pavilion and the World Showcase. Fans of the movie will enjoy the cute, rat-sized journey through Gusteau’s restaurant. And others might appreciate that the new attraction will help spread the crowds more evenly through the park. We don’t have an official opening date yet, but Disney has said that Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure will open in 2021.

Are you more excited for Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure or Crêpes À Emporter? Let us know in the comments!