As Universal Orlando Resort prepares to unveil its latest venture, Epic Universe, scheduled to open on May 22, the excitement extends beyond the thrilling rides and attractions. Spanning five immersive themed lands, Epic Universe promises an eclectic dining experience that pulls inspiration from popular franchises, encouraging visitors to indulge in a diverse array of culinary delights. From whimsical desserts to adventurous entrees, guests will encounter a gastronomic landscape that is as vibrant and magical as the realms it represents.
At the heart of Celestial Park lies an abundance of dining venues, totaling 15 unique spots. One standout is the Atlantic restaurant, where diners can expect innovative dishes such as a sea bass filet served with aromatic carrot mochi and snap peas, complemented by a fragrant lemongrass broth. The whimsical dessert, Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot, is cleverly served in a beach pail, complete with cookie butter ganache and gummy shark bites—a delightful treat for both children and adults.
Adventure awaits at Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant, where guests can savor a bowl of rich tonkotsu ramen. This eatery promises to transport guests straight to the heart of Asian culinary traditions. For those seeking refreshing beverages, Celestiki offers tiki-style drinks like Waturi Punch, merging rum with an enticing array of fruit juices, making it an appealing choice for island-inspired refreshment.
For fans of the Harry Potter universe, the full-themed experience continues at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, specifically in the Ministry of Magic area. Café L’air De La Sirene beckons visitors with its enchanting menu, featuring the iconic Butterbeer Crepe. This delectable combination of Bavarian cream and strawberries drizzled with Butterbeer is likely to become a fan favorite. Other intriguing offerings include the Baguette de Dinde and a luscious Quiche Lorraine, all crafted with care and attention to detail.
Le Gobelet Noir presents a unique dining experience with its Alchemist’s Platter, featuring an assortment of bites that capture the essence of European charm. The inclusion of vegan options, such as lentil stew, illustrates Universal’s commitment to providing diverse choices that cater to all dietary preferences.
Transitioning from magic to gaming, Super Nintendo World serves up a hearty menu sure to satisfy gaming enthusiasts. Toadstool Café invites guests to enjoy the Mario Burger, a savory creation with a fusion of flavors that echoes the playful spirit of the gaming franchise. Bowser’s Fireball Challenge, with its hefty meatball centerpiece and enticing sides, is designed for those daring enough to take on culinary adventures.
Yoshi’s Snack Island adds a touch of whimsy with its refreshing Yoshi’s Smoothie, a delightful concoction of apple and honeydew that bursts with flavor. This playful blend not only serves as a thirst quencher but also encapsulates the joy found within the world of Nintendo.
Feasting in How to Train Your Dragon
The journey continues at the How to Train Your Dragon—Isle of Berk, where guests can revel in a unique selection of robust dishes. Mead Hall is a vibrant destination, featuring the intriguing Yaknog—a creamy drink infused with chocolate and cinnamon, reminiscent of cozy winter nights. The Thawfest Platter showcases a generous offering of chicken drumsticks, grilled salmon, and Nordic salad, encouraging diners to explore flavors from afar.
Desserts like Stormfly’s Catch of the Day, a chocolate mousse fish served on crispy rice cereal, add a creative touch to the dining experience, making the meal not just a feast but an experience to remember.
Lastly, the Dark Universe section takes us on a culinary journey that’s both eerie and delicious. Das Stakehaus houses an array of intriguing options—from Fish on a Stake to the vegan cabbage rolls filled with Impossible beef. Each dish carries a blend of traditional flavors and modern culinary techniques, ensuring that every palate is catered to. The “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich, with its striking color and flavor profile, stands out as a daring choice for adventurous eaters.
Though playful and lighthearted, Epic Universe maintains a commitment to quality and creativity in its offerings. The variety across the theme park’s dining locations creates an inclusive environment where all guests can embark on a culinary journey that matches the themes of adventure and fun. As Epic Universe opens its doors, the anticipation of discovering new flavors within these enchanting realms truly is a culinary adventure worth embarking on.