Epcot Welcomes Via Napoli Ristorante E Pizzaria

Aug 6, 2010 by Tom Corless    No Comments    Posted under: Dining, Epcot, Photo Reports

The grand opening ceremony and media event for the new restaurant in the Italy pavilion, “Via Napoli”, was held yesterday at Epcot and Robert Ashburn was there to cover all of the excitement for WDWNT. Let’s take a look at the festivities, beginning with some Disney provided photos:

Mickey Mouse; Dan Cockerell, Vice President of Epcot; Clay Shoemaker, Walt Disney World Ambassador; Nick Valenti, CEO of Patina Restaurant Group; Joachim Splichal, Founder and Chairman of Patina Restaurant Group; and Minnie Mouse celebrate Aug. 5, 2010 during the grand opening of Via Napoli in the Italy pavilion at Epcot World Showcase. (Gene Duncan, photographer)

The architecture and design of the new pizzeria is based on a mix of traditional Italian styles and features the detailed touches for which Disney is famous. Photo Copyright Disney.

Photo Copyright Disney

Photo Copyright Disney

Photo Copyright Disney

The following photos were taken by Robert Ashburn for WDW News Today

Two seasoned Disney entertainers played Italian women stomping grapes in comic fashion

A Mickey pizza prepared for the event

The wood-burning ovens can cook a pizza in about 3 minutes

It’s pretty authentic

The desserts even look fantastic

Looks good…

The staff looks anxious to serve guests

Some chairs don’t match, but this is part of the theme

Outdoor seating section

Gift bag provided to media for the event

Finally, here’s a video of the grand opening ceremony