A Guide to Universal Orlando Dining: Insider Tips and Top Picks
A Guide to Universal Orlando Dining: Insider Tips and Top Picks
Part of the fun when visiting Universal Orlando is trying exciting themed restaurants and chowing down on the delicious food!
Universal theme park food ranges from famous hits like Butterbeer from Harry Potter’s Wizarding World to upscale bistros and Greek-inspired restaurants.
Discover the best dessert Orlando offers, eat like royalty, or kick off the weekend with a brunch Orlando locals love at Universal! Between the theme parks and CityWalk, there are tons of options for any meal, any time.
Best Restaurants at Universal Orlando
It’s no secret that Universal Orlando restaurants are some of the most popular in the city. There are many options to choose from, including quick service options, snacks, healthy foods, steaks, desserts, and everything in between.
At CityWalk, you’ll find more sit-down restaurants great for a family meal or date night, whereas the parks offer more quick-service options, like food stalls and trucks for fast, tasty bites. However, both areas have a mix of fast and fancy food.
In this guide, we’re offering inside tips for the top picks for Universal Orlando restaurants based on cost, the best places for families with kids, and the ones with amazing views.
Best Quick-Service Universal Orlando Restaurants
Universal Studios has over 15 quick-service restaurants. These establishments allow you to grab a meal on the go, so you can keep exploring the park without sitting down for a longer meal.
QUICK-SERVICE EATERIES
| RESTAURANT | HOURS | VENUE |
| The TODAY Cafe | 7:30 AM–9 PM | Universal Studios |
| Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck | 11 AM–7 PM | Universal Studios |
| Green Eggs & Ham Cafe | 9 AM–7 PM | Islands of Adventure |
| Thunder Falls Terrace | 11 AM–5 PM | Islands of Adventure |
1 | The TODAY Cafe | Named after the popular morning TV show, this cafe offers a delicious array of fresh sandwiches, soups, flatbreads, and pastries.
Service is fast, prices are reasonable, and it’s a good way to grab a cheap lunch at Universal Studios if you don’t want to pay for a full restaurant experience.
WHERE: Universal Studios, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
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2 | Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck | There’s just something magical about food truck tacos. As soon as you approach Bumblebee Man’s, the smell will let you know you’ve made the right choice.
There are just three options on the menu: chicken tacos, carnitas tacos, or carne asada tacos. You can request a corn tortilla if you are gluten-sensitive, and there is a no-sauce option for those sensitive to soy.
As if the tacos weren’t great enough, every order comes served with a side of fresh tortilla chips and your choice of red or green salsa. Olé!
WHERE: Universal Studios, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
3 | Green Eggs & Ham Cafe | You can’t miss the giant green ham in the middle of the park! Order yourself a real green egg and ham sandwich or some Who Hash.
You’ll find this quick-service booth in Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure. The menu is small, but it offers a decent selection of tasty food that has a fun theme kids will adore.
WHERE: Islands of Adventure, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
4 | Thunder Falls Terrace | Thunder Falls food is packed with flavor!
Located at Jurassic Park in Universal’s Island of Adventure, you’ll find lunch and dinner options that include popular picks like BBQ ribs, sizzling steaks, and various soups, wraps, and salads.
WHERE: Islands of Adventure, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
Best Universal Orlando Restaurants for Families
Whether you’re looking to experience a little magic with your meal or just need to accommodate your pickiest eaters, Universal Orlando has a variety of great restaurants that feature both an unforgettable atmosphere and a lot of menu options for even the most finicky of foodies.
BEST RESTAURANTS FOR FAMILIES
| RESTAURANT | HOURS | VENUE |
| Leaky Cauldron | 9 AM–7 PM | Universal Studios |
| Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. | 11 AM–11 PM | CityWalk |
| The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen | 10:30 AM–10 PM | CityWalk |
| The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar | 11 AM–11 PM | CityWalk |
1 | Leaky Cauldron | Harry Potter fans will instantly fall in love with the real-life Leaky Cauldron. Unleash your inner wizard and order some classic fish and chips or a hearty helping of bangers and mash.
Plus, there’s butterbeer! This kid-friendly drink is a creamy, foamy delight that you can order cold or frozen on a hot day.
WHERE: Universal Studios, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 363-8000
2 | Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. | Bubba Gump is a fun family-friendly restaurant at Universal CityWalk.
You can enjoy delicious seafood, soups, and Southern-inspired dishes like shrimp, dixie-style baby back ribs, or zesty Alabama chicken linguine, while your little ones can get kid-sized shrimp and fish sticks, burgers, or pasta.
WHERE: CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd Suite 735, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 903-0044
3 | The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen | Kids will go absolutely bonkers for the loaded milkshakes at Toothsome!
The Chocolate Emporium isn’t all about sweets, though. The savory eats include stuffed sandwiches, steak and potatoes, and pasta dishes. There’s also a pretty impressive brunch menu that includes a variety of waffles, French toast, quiche, and crepes.
The 19th-century industrial atmosphere is made even better thanks to a colorful cast of Steampunk characters that make appearances throughout your meal!
WHERE: CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 224-3663
4 | The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar | Cowfish is a unique restaurant that manages to combine two things you never thought would go together, sushi and burgers!
The sushi is fresh, delicious, and there are many specialty roles to choose from. Meanwhile, the burger side of the menu is packed full of flavor with options like The Jalapeño Popper Show-Stopper and The Heavenly Veggie.
The kids’ menu includes adorable Ninja Nuggetz, Dragon Bitez, and PB&J “sushi” rolls, among other options. This surf and turf restaurant is a top hit and easily one of the best Universal Orlando restaurants.
WHERE: CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 224-3663
Best Universal Orlando Restaurants with Views
You didn’t come to Universal just for the theme parks, right? Your time in Orlando should also be about relaxation and rejuvenation!
So, sit back and unwind with some of these scenic restaurants.
Pro Tip: You can also check out our round-up of the best waterfront restaurants Orlando locals love to recommend.
BEST RESTAURANTS WITH A VIEW
| RESTAURANT | HOURS | VENUE |
| Mythos | 11 AM–7 PM | Islands of Adventure |
| BeachClub at the Hard Rock Hotel | 11 AM–10 PM | CityWalk |
| Bar 17 Bistro at Universal’s Aventura Hotel | 5 PM–12 AM | 5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 |
| Vivo Italian Kitchen | 4 PM–10 PM | 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 |
1 | Mythos | Mythos is a gorgeous Mediterranean restaurant at Universal Islands of Adventure. Relax as you munch on tzatziki and pita overlooking the park.
The eatery is perfect for stepping outside the usual theme park fare and trying some of the best Greek food Orlando has to offer.
WHERE: Islands of Adventure, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 224-3663
2 | BeachClub at the Hard Rock Hotel | Feeling tropical? Embrace the island vibes at BeachClub. This cabana-style restaurant features a bar, grill, and outdoor dining complete with a pool.
There are tall drinks, generous portion sizes, and plenty of beachy eats to get you excited for a day exploring the parks! Try their loaded nachos, crispy pickle chips, or ahi ahi tuna tartare if you’re feeling fancy.
WHERE: 5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 503-2000
3 | Bar 17 Bistro at Universal’s Aventura Hotel | Take in sweeping views of Universal’s three theme parks from this kid-friendly rooftop bistro.
Enjoy bar bites like burgers and fries along with some elevated eats like steamed bao buns and chicken katsu.
There is live music on the weekends, so mark this one down if you’re looking for fun things to do in Orlando for couples!
WHERE: 5800 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 503-2000
4 | Vivo Italian Kitchen | If you’re looking for one of the best Italian restaurants Orlando offers, Vivo Italian Kitchen has great views and even better food!
This Universal CityWalk restaurant features an open-air patio on the second floor and is a short walk to a scenic waterside path. Settle in and enjoy yummy artisan pizzas, homemade pasta, and delicious appetizers.
Of course, there are also gluten-free options, a kids’ menu, and a variety of wines, beers, and cocktails to enjoy with your meal.
WHERE: CityWalk, 6000 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819 | WHO: (407) 224-3663
Use Our Handy Map to Find Your Way Around!
Insider Tips for Eating at Universal Orlando Restaurants
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Book a reservation. Popular establishments like the Leaky Cauldron and Mythos fill up fast, so be sure to book a reservation in advance.
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Save money on food. Eat breakfast at your hotel, and pack some snacks. Universal Orlando allows water and small snacks, as well as baby food, formula, and meals for people with dietary restrictions and medical needs.
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Check out combo meals. Many Universal Orlando quick-service restaurants offer standalone items and combo deals. This can give you a side and drink with your order that’s cheaper than paying for each item separately.
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Bring your own water bottle. A bottle of water at Universal Orlando costs over $5. Instead, bring your own bottles and fill them up at the drinking fountains located throughout the parks.
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Buy a souvenir cup. If you purchase one of the refillable souvenir cups, you can fill it up for free at the Coke Freestyle station in the theme parks, CityWalk, or Volcano Bay.
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Share meals. Some restaurants have larger entrees, which can make sharing a simple budget-saving tactic. Just note some restaurants may charge a fee for splitting portions. You can ask your server before sharing to ensure you aren’t surprised by the bill.
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Where to Eat at Universal Orlando
Universal Orlando dining spans across CityWalk, Universal Studios, and Universal Orlando Resort. One thing’s for sure: you’ll never go hungry. There are plenty of family-friendly dining options, quick-service meals, snacks, and delicious desserts to try.
Tour some of the unique restaurants Orlando International Drive has or satisfy your sweet tooth with a trip to one of the many bakeries in Orlando.
Check out our Westgate Resorts Travel Blog for even more travel inspiration to make your next visit to Orlando magical.
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* Westgate Resorts is in no way affiliated with the attractions featured in this article. Items or places listed are current as of the publishing date of this article. Please call or visit the respective website for the most up-to-date offerings and details.
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