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EPCOT’s new Regal Eagle BBQ Restaurant in American has a familiar mascot

Ever since we heard a barbecue restaurant would be coming to the American Pavilion in EPCOT, we’ve been excitedly awaiting our first taste of what is sure to be a delicious upgrade at Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue. 

Construction is well underway with expanded seating and an outside BBQ pit and now we’re learning an exciting new detail. Not only will the restaurant feature a fast-casual American Barbecue vibe, it will have the venerable Sam Eagle, the Muppet known for his patriotism and strict sense of duty and honor, as its icon. 

According to a post by Disney, “Regal Eagle Smokehouse will be the site for ‘Sam’s Centennial Cook-Off: A Salute to All Cook-Offs but Mostly Barbecue.’ Guests will be the beneficiaries of this contest – described as ‘a competition fit for all patriots and pit masters’ – as it brings in a variety of classic backyard barbecue selections from across the country to vie for Sam’s top honor.”

Accordingly, there will also be merchandise featuring Sam Eagle along with other Sam Eagle touches. Look for Sam Eagle’s image to be part of the decor of the new location. From the signage to posters inside. 

We take our BBQ seriously and we’re sure that Sam Eagle does too. The Restaurant is expected to open early this year.