Culinary Adventure: 5 Tips for Eating at Universal Orlando Resort

by Jen Tilley on October 3rd, 2013 | No Comments »

When people think of a theme park, the first thought that usually comes to mind includes the exciting rides. The rides provide so much adventure and thrill for the entire family. But what about the food? When traveling to Universal Orlando Resort, you'll quickly notice that the creators of the parks put a lot of focus on making the food part of the overall theme park adventure.

Whether you're looking to sit down for a five-star meal or grabbing a quick bite to eat in-between rides, Universal Orlando Resort has all sorts of options to satisfy your cravings or hunger pains. Plus, they have dining options that your kids will love!

5 Tips for Eating at Universal Orlando Resort

With all of the restaurants throughout the parks, a person could get overwhelmed. Here are five tips to help you down the culinary path of adventure during your vacation at Universal Orlando Resort.

1. Dine at CityWalk

From Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville to Hard Rock Cafe, there are so many dining options for your whole family will enjoy. CityWalk is a great place to stop on the way to the parks. You can also visit this area if you're in need of a light lunch or gourmet dinner. For a full list of restaurants, please be sure to visit this page. There truly is something for every taste and appetite. Making an option can be tricky but you're bound to find something at every restaurant that is special, unique, themed, and delicious.

Dining Recommendation at CityWalk: If you end up at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville and you love coconut shrimp, place your order. You won't be disappointed!

2. Enjoy the Islands of Adventure

Even though it's called "Islands of Adventure," it should also be called "Restaurants of Adventure." Why? There are so many restaurants that are full of incredible themes to add to your dining experience. With waterfalls, rock formations, and ancient figures, Mythos Restaurant provides the ultimate theme park dining experience. Do you love Harry Potter? If so, you'll want to add Three Broomsticks in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter to your dining list. Grab yourself a butter beer and indulge on a British feast right in the center of Hogsmeade.

Dining Recommendation at Islands of Adventure: Upon entering the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, your first stop should be to grab yourself a frozen butter beer. Also, don't forget to take a photo of your butter beer mustache!

3. Visit the Simpsons in Springfield

Have you ever wanted to visit Springield? Well, you're in the luck. At Universal Studios, one step into Springfield and you will feel like you've been transported into the cartoon. The creators of this area of the park were so successful in bringing this cartoon into real-life. You can bite into a burger at Krusty Burger, sink your teeth into a chicken and waffle sandwich at Cleatus' Chicken Shack, or enjoy a giant doughnut at Lard Lad Donuts. The possibilities are endless and delicious. The best part is that while dining, you feel like you are right in heart of Springfield, U.S.A.

Dining Recommendation at Springfield: If you're looking for something on the lighter/healthier side, stop by Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck. You can't miss it ... it looks like a bumblebee. Order yourself the chicken tacos and your tummy will thank you.

4. Feast at the Hotel Restaurants

If you're staying at one of the on-site hotels, you will quickly notice all of the dining options within steps of your room. Here's a list of the on-site hotel options. As you can see from the list, there are options that range from casual dining to fine dining ... whatever fits your mood and/or craving. Do you love the characters? Be sure to dine with the characters since they love stopping by the restaurants to visit with guests. Have you ever been to a luau? If not, attend the Wantilan Luau and watch hula dancers while listening to Hawaiian music.

Dining Recommendation at On-Site Dining: If you end up at Emeril's Tchoup Chop at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, order the miso soup. The presentation is phenomenal and the taste is even better.

5. Indulge at the Concession Stands

Throughout the park, there are tons of concession stands that can help keep your family hydrated and full on the go. If you're in need of a quick bite to eat, you can stop by one to fuel up and hydrate.

Dining Recommendation at the Concession Stands: The churros might look delicious ... and that's because they are. You might even find yourself eating a churro a day! Yes, they are that good.