A Universal Orlando Foodie Guide
Contributed by Becky Cain
When you think of theme parks in general, the first thought that comes to mind is probably not necessarily food worthy and in need of a “Foodie Blog”, right? Well today I’m hoping to change your mind on that. When it comes to delicious options during a theme park visit, Universal Orlando Resort has some of the best!
It's true that many theme parks tend to serve a lot of the same standard family favorites including burgers, chicken tenders, popcorn, and ice cream. While yummy, these can get old after a little while. If you are ready to try something new and different, here are my recommendations:
Carl's Crispy Cauliflower - Uncle Dru's Belly Fillin' Pork Sandwich
As you enter Universal Studios, one of your first stops will be to the recently refurbished Minions Land which is home to our first stop - Illumination’s Minions Cafe. With its bright and silly atmosphere you might be surprised to find some of my favorite menu options at this Despicable Me themed cafe. Carl's Crispy Cauliflower is my current favorite choice with a complete escape from normal theme park options. This bright dish includes tempura cauliflower, sweet and spicy chili sauce, blue coconut rice, edamame and Thai cucumbers. If you are in the mood for a something a bit closer to the normal theme park fare, try my hubby’s favorite sandwich - Uncle Dru’s Belly Fillin’ Pork Sandwich which boasts slow-roasted porchetta, chimichurri sauce, mustard aioli, apple butter, bacon jam, arugula and a Hawaiian pretzel bun served green plantain chips. The first time he tried it, his automatic response was “This is literally the BEST sandwich I’ve ever eaten!”.
The Ahi Tuna Nachos
For my next suggestion, let’s park hop over to Islands of Adventure for a quick appetizer at Confisco Grille, a table service restaurant right in the Port of Entry. The Ahi Tuna Nachos with sesame seared ahi tuna, diced avocado, edamame, Napa cabbage, wonton chips, jalapeño, micro cilantro, scallions, sweet soy and wasabi aioli drizzles is something I dream about getting before each trip. This is also a great spot to stop and rest with its fantastic selection of fruit drinks including the Mango Lassi, Spicy Chocolate Strawberry Lassi and a variety of frozen fruit slushies.
The Everything Croissant
Looking for breakfast on a park day? You can’t go wrong with just about anything from the Today Cafe in Universal Studios with a selection of breakfast sandwiches, bowls and pastries. My personal favorite is The Everything Croissant Breakfast Sandwich with sausage, egg, cheese, smashed avocado, and Divina tomatoes on an everything bagel seasoning croissant served with a side of fruit. It’s a foodie take on a traditional breakfast sandwich and it’s the perfect start to your park day!
Butterbeer Ice Cream
My last suggestion may seem like it’s a fairly traditional theme park food, but it’s definitely an elevated experience. Head into Diagon Alley in Universal Studios for some of the best ice cream ever! Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour boasts both hand scooped and soft serve ice cream making it the perfect sweet treat for everyone in your group. Try the iconic butterbeer ice cream with its swirls of butterscotch sweetness or step out of the norm with one of their scooped flavors like Earl Grey & Lavender, Chocolate Chili or Strawberry & Peanut Butter. Take your treat and grab a seat on the stairs next to Gringotts Bank for some people watching and relaxing!
Bon Appetite!
Have we convinced you yet to head down to Orlando for some yummy meals in addition to some EPIC thrills? Our crew at A Mouse and A Beach is ready to help you plan your next incredible vacation! Click our Request A Quote to get started.
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