Epic Universe, the highly anticipated addition to Universal Orlando Resort opening on May 22, not only promises thrilling rides and immersive experiences but also an exciting array of dining options that reflect the rich universes it encompasses. With 30 distinct restaurants spread across five themed lands—including Celestial Park, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Super Nintendo World, How to Train Your Dragon, and Dark Universe—the park is set to delight guests with inventive and thematic culinary creations that cater to various dietary preferences.
Celestial Park serves as the main dining hub, housing about 15 unique eateries that invite visitors to embark on a culinary adventure. At the Atlantic restaurant, the standout dish is a delicately prepared sea bass filet accompanied by a vibrant carrot mochi and sugar snap peas, all swimming in a lemongrass broth. The presentation alone transforms the experience into something unforgettable, and diners can finish their meal on a sweet note with the Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot — a whimsical dessert presented in a beach pail, which exudes both nostalgia and creativity.
Additionally, guests can venture to the Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, where traditional dishes like tonkotsu ramen transport diners straight to Asia. The menu cleverly integrates modern twists, such as the Khaosan Boba—an enticing milk tea that pairs coffee boba with a uniquely creamy foam. For barbecue lovers, Oak & Star Tavern offers everything from smoky brisket to herb-infused chicken, ensuring that carnivores and herbivores alike find something savory to savor.
Transitioning to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—specifically the Ministry of Magic—guests will be welcomed into enchanting spaces like Café L’air De La Sirene. Here, the Butterbeer Crepe transforms a beloved classic into an imaginative signature dish, layered with shortbread cookie butter, Bavarian cream, and a drizzle embodying the spirit of Butterbeer itself. Meanwhile, the Baguette de Dinde encapsulates a hearty taste of France, featuring black pepper turkey on a warm baguette, proving that comfort food need not sacrifice flavor.
One cannot overlook the charm of Le Gobelet Noir, which presents the Alchemist’s Platter—a well-curated assortment of intriguing items like smoked sausage and piquant pickled eggs. The availability of a vegan option in the form of lentil stew ensures inclusivity, demonstrating that the park’s culinary vision aims to cater to diverse tastes and dietary requirements.
As guests step into Super Nintendo World, they are greeted by the cheerful ambiance of Toadstool Café. Among the must-try items are the Mario Burger and Luigi Burger, each infused with distinct flavors and accompanied by truffle fries, allowing guests to relish a thematic dining experience. Adventurous eaters can challenge their appetites with Bowser’s Fireball Challenge—a creative one-pound meatball that showcases quality ingredients stacked within a playful presentation.
Equally appealing is Yoshi’s Snack Island, which serves the refreshing Yoshi’s Smoothie—a vibrant combination of Granny Smith apple and honeydew syrup that is both delicious and entertaining in appearance. These offerings invite guests to not just eat but to experience the flavors in the manner of animated adventures.
Heading to How to Train Your Dragon—Isle of Berk, guests find themselves in Mead Hall where the menu is as adventurous as it is hearty. The Yaknog offers a comforting blend of flavors, while the Thawfest Platter presents an assortment of hearty proteins and seasonal vegetables that capture the spirit of the Viking setting. The Nordic Harvest Salad shows a resurgence of health-conscious eats, adding variety to the otherwise indulgent landscape.
In Dark Universe, the thrill continues with Das Stakehaus, where diners can select from imaginative dishes such as Fish on a Stake and Bird on a Stake. These playful menu descriptors alone embody the creative flair found throughout the park. The “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich and vegan cabbage rolls serve as an exemplary balance of the culinary world, accommodating different dietary lifestyles without compromising on flavor or creativity.
Epic Universe promises an enchanting culinary landscape that resonates deeply with its immersive themes. Each dish is not merely a meal but a crafted experience designed to transport guests to another world. From whimsical desserts in the Wizarding World to hearty Viking feasts, the park’s offerings reflect both diversity and a dedication to quality, ensuring that every visitor finds something to indulge in. As Epic Universe prepares to open its doors, its gastronomic offerings stand ready to captivate taste buds and create lasting memories.