Read Time: 12 mins.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Heading to Universal Studios Florida with family?
As a fellow mom, I know that a big part of the fun is ensuring everyone finds something they love to eat and drink. And luckily, Universal caters to this perfectly. After a gazillion visits, I’ve become a food expert.
So, whether you need a sweet treat to keep the kids happy or a quick bite for a hungry husband, I’m excited to share my discoveries with you!
Think of me as your food scout for the park. I’ve sniffed out all the family favorites that’ll keep even the fussiest eaters happy (because, let’s be honest, I’ve got one of those, too 😉).
Ready to turn your park days from “What’s for lunch?” to “Yum, let’s come back here!” Let’s go!
Heads Up → If you’re planning more Orlando fun, be sure to check out my blog, Uncovering Orlando, for more travel guides and local insights.
Top Restaurants In Universal Studios Orlando
Well, to be honest, I’ve tried just about everything Universal Studios has to offer. Some were hits, some not so much, and a few were delightful surprises. While I’ve taken plenty of drool-worthy Instagram photos, I only recommend the true winners. Here you go with family-favored spots.
1. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter: Butterbeer
Alright, mama, if you’re hitting Universal and skipping Butterbeer, you’re missing out big time!
This drink is a liquid gold straight out of the Harry Potter books. It’s a sweet, frothy butterscotch-cream concoction. You’ve got options: hot, cold, and frozen, and they all run around $8.99 each.
The Frozen Butterbeer is a must-have for me while waiting in line for rides like the Escape from Gringotts. It’s a lifesaver after battling the Florida heat and, of course, those endless house chores.
You can grab it at spots like The Fountain of Fortune in Diagon Alley or those charming carts in Hogsmeade. Plus, they’ve got Butterbeer ice cream and fudge, which are worth a try.
Suggested Reading → A Local’s Guide to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
2. Universal CityWalk: Food Street Favorites
CityWalk is the ultimate pit stop between the Universal parks, and let me tell you, it’s a foodie’s dream. This lively spot is between Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure, so you’ll find it easily as you exit either park. It is a perfect spot to enjoy back even after those frantic rides.
Talking of my favorites from here: Cowfish. My kids go wild here, especially for their burgers and sushi combo. Toothsome is another favorite, thanks to those fancy French eats and milkshakes (don’t skip their macarons, trust me!).
And Antojitos?
They’ve got these chocolate coffee wings that are a big hit with the teens. Plus, prices are pretty reasonable, around $10-$25 to enjoy some seriously good eats.
Suggested Reading → Best Restaurants to Try at CityWalk Orlando.
3. Universal’s Islands of Adventure: Three Broomsticks
Let’s discuss the Three Broomsticks, a British Harry Potter-themed spot in Islands of Adventure. Unlike the Leaky Cauldron, it’s got a more varied menu with a bit of a twist.
Start your day with a Traditional English Breakfast: scrambled eggs, sausage links, and black pudding (yes, really!).
Alternatively, go for the Porridge Breakfast with old-fashioned oats, fresh fruit, and a buttery croissant. (I’m drooling just thinking about it!).
And for the main courses, they’ve got something for everyone: chicken to beef and vegan options priced between $4 to $19. While my kids are all about the Hogwarts magic, my hubby and I are here for the delicious food. It’s a win-win that even a spell couldn’t top!
4. Seuss Landing: Green Eggs and Ham Café
You know how sometimes you revisit a place thinking, “It can’t be that bad, right?”
Well, that was us with the Green Eggs and Ham Café in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure.
And guess what?
They’ve turned things around! Their new tater tot creations wowed us.
Everything from pizza tots to buffalo chicken tots is priced under $12. It’s a fantastic quick-bite spot, especially if you’re on the go.
They even have vegan options that my non-vegan family loves. The mozzarella-covered pizza tots are a must-try, and those Green Eggs and Ham Tots with cheesy goodness are perfect. Trust me, you’ll want to make a special trip to this place.
5. Volcano Bay: Waturi Fusion Ice Cream
After a fun-filled morning at Universal’s Volcano Bay, my kids were itching for something sweet, so I hunted for a little ice cream. That’s when I stumbled upon this masterpiece, and boy, was it a find!
This colorful cone was a real treat. It was packed with banana, blue raspberry, orange, and strawberry and cost just $7.
It was just what we needed to cool down while we kicked back and admired Krakatau Volcano. It is located near the park entrance at Koka Poroka, right by the Waturi Marketplace, under a thatched roof with ice cream swirls.
Scoop along → Best Ice Cream Parlors of Orlando.
6. Jurassic Park: Thunder Falls Terrace
If you have a husband like me who loves having food breaks while exploring all around, Thunder Falls Terrace in Jurassic Park is your new friend. From my experience, this place has a bit of everything, and most dishes are priced around $15 to $20.
What impressed me was their veggie rice bowl with jackfruit; it’s light yet filling and makes for a fantastic meat alternative.
They also serve tasty ribs, juicy rotisserie chicken, and a mouthwatering chicken salad perfect on a hot day.
And, oh, the key lime cheesecake?
Worth saving room for. Plus, there’s ample seating, so no scrambling to find a spot.
7. Springfield, USA: Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck
Oh, Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck is especially for us busy moms. For around $19, you can snag a taco plate perfect for energizing you with kids without feeling weighed down. I’m all about their $17 deal, which gives you get 1 buy 1 free offer.
Now the favorites?
The Korean taco is a total winner with its juicy beef and crisp cucumber topping. My husband, who’s got a bit of a sour tooth, swears by their Carne Asada Tacos served with chips and salsa. A sweet tip: Grab a Duff Beer from the nearby kiosk to wash it all down.
After all, drinks are a must, no?
8. Central Park: Crispy Crepes
Delicious as it looks! If you don’t mind a little wait, the crepes at Central Park are a real gem. The service can be sluggish, but trust me, it’s worth the wait. These crepes are packed with flavor and come in generous portions.
I’ve tried their mouthwatering Nutella and Strawberry Crepe and the savory Ham and Cheese Crepe, and I’m telling you, there’s something for everyone in the family.
Plus, if you’re looking at your vacation wallet, you’ll be happy to know that all their crepes are under $10.
9. Honeydukes and Sugarplum Hogsmeade: Cauldron Cake
Ever seen a cake that looks like it belongs in a potion master’s lab?
Head over to Honeydukes, Sugarplum’s Sweetshop in Hogsmeade, or Diagon Alley, and grab the Cauldron Cake for around $8. My kids were thrilled by its cauldron shape and the rich, chocolatey goodness.
With marshmallow filling and fiery buttercream, it’s a treat that’ll make your park day even sweeter.
Learn more about what Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley restaurants have to offer.
10. Fast Food Blvd: Chicken and Waffle Sandwich
You just can’t miss this for a treat that hits all the right notes and keeps the little ones happy. It’s like someone heard our prayers for the perfect mix of sweet and savory.
What’s the deal?
Crispy, double-battered fried chicken nestled between two fluffy waffles slathered with a dreamy maple syrup mayo. And if that wasn’t enough, go for the combo of tots and shakes. Honestly, this dish is designed for a quick family lunch.
My kids went wild over it, and I loved how it felt like a comforting home meal on the go. Price ranges from $5 to $17, with the priciest being Two Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cups for $34.
11. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium: Milkshakes
Universal CityWalk has its fair share of goodies, but if you’re after something that’ll knock your socks off, you’ve got to try the milkshakes at Toothsome Chocolate Emporium. These aren’t just any shakes; they’re more like a sugar-coated rollercoaster ride in a jar.
They’ll set you back $14-$17, but let me tell you, they’re worth every dime. I went for the Red Velvet, crowned with a whole cupcake (talk about taking the cake!), while my kiddos couldn’t get enough of the Confetti shake. It was like a birthday bash in a jar.
And the best part?
Each shake comes in a souvenir mason jar, so you have a little something to remember your sweet escapade.
12. Wimpy’s: Wellington Burger & Curly Fries
You know that feeling when you strike gold without even trying?
That happened when I stumbled upon Wimpy’s in Universal Studios’ Toon Lagoon. The place was best for my partner, who always whiffs out a good burger. Especially their Wellington Burger & Curly Fries combo is an absolute home run.
With prices in the $10-$15 ballpark, it’s a no-brainer, especially when you’re watching those theme park pennies.
They’ve got appetizers for $12 and drinks for $4, with beer at $11.
Don’t expect a full spread here; it’s all about grabbing a quick, tasty bite. It’s worth planning around, especially if you’ve got a carnivore in the family like I do. The only hitch? Wimpy’s hours are a bit hit or miss, so check before you head over.
13. Diagon Alley: Leaky Cauldron
Leaky Cauldron is another great spot to get a break from the usual theme park fare. The place in Diagon Alley oozes charm with its flickering torches and mystical sounds that transport you straight into the Harry Potter universe. With prices ranging from $7 to $18, it’s a bit of a splurge, but you’ll find it worth every cent.
Besides the classic fish and chips, the Guinness stew is a hearty option to warm your bones. The Fisherman’s Pie is a treasure trove of tender seafood and creamy goodness. Don’t skip the massive bread pudding; it’s a sweet hug in dessert form. And if you’re craving something different, the bangers and mash are spot on.
14. Voodoo Doughnut: Yummy Donuts
Voodoo Doughnut at Universal CityWalk is where you’ll find those iconic pink boxes everyone’s lugging around. Prices range from $2/single to $30/dozen with over 50 wild flavors plus 13 vegan options.
Now, I’ll be honest, these doughnuts didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
Maybe they needed a warm-up, or I caught them on an off day, but they were okay in my book.
Still, there’s a bit of doughnut magic here that you can’t ignore. If nothing else, you’ll want to snap a pic in the giant doughnut chair outside. So, even if they’re not your cup of tea, they’re worth a try just to say you did.
Some More Notable Options
Here are some delicious rankings on our list of what to eat at Universal Studios Orlando!
- Mythos Restaurant: Island of Adventure
- Volcano Nachos: Margaritaville or Lone Palm Airport
- Pretzel Dog: Whakawaiwai Eats
- Toffee Pudding: Leaky Cauldron
- Foot Long Corn Dog: Moose Juice Goose Juice
- Chicken Kabab: Doc Sugrues Desert Kebab House
- Hard Rock Café: Universal CityWalk
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it, moms! When you’re making your way through Universal Studios, be sure to hit up these yummy spots. A little snack break can save you from those dreaded mid-day meltdowns and keep everyone smiling.
My two cents?
Stick with the little ones’ go-to favorites, but don’t let the chance to try something new slip through your fingers. Here’s to making every meal as memorable as those epic rides.
FAQs
1. Can I bring my food to Universal Studios?
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed, but you can bring a small, clear plastic water bottle or items for special dietary needs.
2. What’s the best time to eat to avoid long lines?
Plan to eat during off-peak hours, like mid-afternoon, to avoid the busiest meal times and enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.
3. What’s the average cost of a meal at Universal Studios?
Depending on the restaurant and menu choices, expect to spend around $15 to $25 per person for a quick-service meal and $30 to $50 for a sit-down meal.
4. Are there options for dietary restrictions?
Yes, Universal Studios offers gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options at various restaurants, such as Three Broomsticks and the snack cart.
