What’s the dining experience like?

1/5

Meals with Universal characters

Start your day with a side of excitement by dining with beloved Universal characters like the Marvel superheroes or the Grinch (seasonal). These special meals combine food, fun, and photo ops, making them perfect for families and fans alike. Availability is limited, so reserve early.

Explore global cuisines

Craving sushi, tacos, or classic American BBQ? The parks offer everything, from Asian bowls and Italian pasta to Latin street food and comfort fare. Most menus offer curated options for vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners.

Over-the-top theming

Enjoy immersive dining in settings straight from your favorite movies and shows—think Simpsons’ Krusty Burger, Jurassic Park’s Thunder Falls Terrace, or Hogwarts’ Three Broomsticks. It’s food served with a dose of storytelling.

Diverse dining options

Whether you're after a grab-and-go snack between rides or a full-service sit-down meal, you’ll find it here. From mobile order–friendly food counters to upscale venues like Mythos Restaurant, there’s something for every mood and budget.

Kid-friendly & allergy-conscious options

The menus are family-focused, with plenty of kid-approved meals, smaller portions, and allergy-aware offerings. Universal’s culinary team accommodates dietary needs upon request—just ask a park member when ordering.

Where to eat at Universal Studios Florida?

Louie’s Italian Restaurant, New York

Cuisine: Italian-American
Must-try dish: Spaghetti & Meatballs
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 11am-9pm

A cozy corner of NYC inside the park, this quick-service osteria serves up big portions of pizza, pasta, and garlic knots at budget-friendly prices.

Richter’s Burger Co., San Francisco

Cuisine: American
Must-try dish: Bacon Cheeseburger
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: Opens at 11am, closing varies by the day (Mon–Thur at 7pm and Fri–Sun at 8pm)

Built to resemble an earthquake-damaged diner in San Francisco, this spot offers satisfying burger combos with plenty of seating and a self-service toppings station.

Krusty Burger, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons

Cuisine: American
Must-try dish: The Clogger Burger
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 10:30am–8pm

Grab a classic Krusty Dog or burger with Buzz Cola from this quick-service window—perfect for grabbing lunch without sitting down.

Finnegan’s Bar & Grill, New York

Cuisine: Irish-American
Must-try dish: Guinness Beef Stew
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 11am–9pm

A lively Irish pub with authentic decor and hearty meals, Finnegan’s serves up pints and traditional Irish comfort food with live music in the evenings, making it a fun, festive break.

Duff Brewery, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons

Cuisine: Beer & bar snacks
Must-try dish: Flaming Moe (non-alcoholic)
Pricing: Low-range
Timings: 10:30am–8pm

Sip a cold one in this open-air beer garden next to Moe’s Tavern. Themed after The Simpsons, it's a quirky stop for fans and beer lovers alike.

Lard Lad Donuts, Springfield: Home of the Simpsons

Cuisine: Donuts & snacks
Must-try dish: The Big Pink Donut
Pricing: Low-range
Timings: 10:30am–8pm

Instantly recognizable massive pink donut from The Simpsons. A must-snap-and-snack spot for fans and sweet lovers alike.

San Francisco Pastry Company, San Francisco

Cuisine: Pastries, coffee, snacks
Must-try dish: Strawberry Cheesecake
Pricing: Low-range
Timings: 9am–9pm

Ideal for a sweet, soupy, or savory pick-me-up, this spot offers baked treats, coffee, and sandwiches with indoor seating for quick breaks.

Leaky Cauldron, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

Cuisine: British Pub Fare
Must-try dish: Toad in the Hole
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 9am–9pm

Step straight into the world of Harry Potter for a rustic British meal of fish and chips and cottage pie under flickering lanterns and medieval stone arches.

Where to eat at Islands of Adventure?

Three Broomsticks™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade™

Cuisine: British pub-style
Must-try dish: Fish & Chips or Rotisserie Chicken Platter
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 8am–10pm

Rustic wooden interiors, floating candles, and authentic fare (like the Great Feast Platter) make this an atmospheric stop for Potterheads. Indoor and outdoor seating available.

Comic Strip Cafe, Toon Lagoon

Cuisine: American, Asian, and Italian combo
Must-try dish: Sweet & Sour Chicken or Cheeseburger
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 11am–8pm; Closed on Wed

This eclectic food court-style venue offers variety for groups with mixed cravings, from burgers and salads to arepas. Look out for a change in seasonal comic decor.

Cafe 4, Marvel Super Hero Island

Cuisine: Italian-American
Must-try dish: Chicken Parmesan with Pasta
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 3:30pm (Sun & Thur) and at 7pm (other days)

Simple pasta dishes, pizza slices, and garden salads are served in a Marvel-themed cafeteria-style setting.

Mythos Restaurant, The Lost Continent

Cuisine: Mediterranean, Asian, and American fusion
Must-try dish: Lamb Burger or Pad Thai
Pricing: Mid to high-range
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 9pm (Mon–Sat) and 10pm on Sun

Voted among the best theme park restaurants, Mythos offers an upscale dining experience inside a cavern-themed setting with waterfalls and rock sculptures, providing both indoor and outdoor seating with views of the lagoon.

Backwater Bar, Port of Entry (next to Confisco Grille)

Cuisine: Bar snacks & cocktails
Must-try dish: Loaded Nachos or Rum Punch
Pricing: Low to mid-range
Timings: Opens at 10am and closes at 10pm on Sun and at 9pm (Mon–Sat)

Tucked behind Confisco Grille, this laid-back bar offers waterfront views and a relaxed vibe with drinks and light snacks—perfect for unwinding without leaving the park.

Croissant Moon Bakery, Port of Entry

Cuisine: Pastries, sandwiches, coffee
Must-try dish: Chocolate Croissant
Pricing: Low-range
Timings: Opens at 8am and closes at 4pm (Sun–Fri) and 5pm on Sat

This is a good option for early risers looking for breakfast items and a caffeine fix before hitting the rides. Indulge in deli sandwiches, salads, and freshly baked pastries and cheesecakes.

The Burger Digs, Jurassic Park

Cuisine: Burgers and salads
Must-try dish: Bacon Cheeseburger
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 10am–10pm

Located inside the Jurassic Park Discovery Center, this spot offers fully customizable burgers with a toppings bar and views of dinosaur exhibits.

Thunder Falls Terrace, Jurassic Park

Cuisine: BBQ & rotisserie
Must-try dish: Ribs Platter
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 11am–7pm

Watch Jurassic Park River Adventure boats splash down as you enjoy hearty smoked meats and fresh sides in a large, open dining hall with great indoor and outdoor seating.

Where to eat at Epic Universe?

Yoshi’s Snack Island, Super Nintendo World

Cuisine: Snacks
Must-try dish: Yoshi’s Fruit Cart Parfait
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: Varies by season

Colorful snack stand with grab-and-go items inspired by Yoshi’s adventures—fruit cups, mochi, and drinks. Great for a light pick-me-up before hitting the next attraction.

Celestial Popcorn, Celestial Park

Cuisine: Snacks
Must-try dish: Caramel Peach Popcorn
Pricing: Low-range
Timings: Varies by season

A theme park staple: buttery popcorn on the go. Perfect mid-ride snack that’s easy to share or refill.

Where to eat at Volcano Bay?

Kohola Reef Restaurant & Social Club

Cuisine: Island-inspired American
Must-try dish: Coconut Crusted Fried Chicken
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 8am–7pm

Breezy and tropical, this restaurant offers island-style dishes like grilled meats, fresh bowls, and fruity drinks with plenty of shaded seating.

Bambu

Cuisine: Asian-inspired bowls and wraps
Must-try dish: Sweet & Spicy Glazed Chicken
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: 10:30am–6pm

A bamboo-clad quick-service eatery serving stir-fried bowls and rice plates with a focus on light, refreshing flavors. Good vegetarian options are available.

The Whakawaiwai Eats, River Village

Cuisine: Pizza, hot dogs, comfort food
Must-try dish: Island BBQ Chicken Pizza
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: 9am–5pm

This laid-back dining hut near the leisure pools serves family favorites with comforting tropical flair, such as flatbreads, loaded fries, and pineapple-glazed chicken pizza.

The Feasting Frog

Cuisine: Latin-American snacks and tacos
Must-try dish: Poke Poke Bowl
Pricing: Low to mid-range
Timings: 10am–5pm

Grab-and-go tacos and fresh poke are served from a frog-shaped kiosk. The menu is compact, but it's a great stop for something fast, flavorful, and different.

Dancing Dragons Boat Bar, Wave Village

Cuisine: Cocktails and bar snacks
Must-try dish: Volcano Blossom Margarita
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 10am–7pm

Set beside Waturi Beach, this tiki-style bar offers creative cocktails and frozen drinks with tropical notes. Sip on rum punches and margaritas while lounging with a view of the towering volcano.

Where to eat in CityWalk?

Voodoo Doughnut

Cuisine: Doughnuts and coffee
Must-try dish: Bacon Maple Bar
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: 8am–midnight

This cult favorite from Portland offers wild doughnut flavors and quirky vibes. Whether it’s cereal-topped rings or raspberry-filled voodoo dolls, the lineup is playful, photogenic, and worth the sugar rush.

Red Oven Pizza Bakery

Cuisine: Neapolitan-style pizza
Must-try dish: Prosciutto & Arugula Pizza
Pricing: Budget to mid-range
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 11pm (Sun–Thur) and midnight (Fri–Sat)

Neapolitan-style pizzas made in a visible red oven, served hot and fast, with views of the CityWalk lagoon. Dine indoors or outside.

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

Cuisine: Gourmet hot dogs
Must-try dish: Chicago Dog
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: Open at noon and closes at 9pm (Sun–Thur) and 11pm (Fri–Sat)

This stadium-themed eatery serves regionally inspired hot dogs from across the U.S., complete with classic toppings and loaded sides like waffle fries.

Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches

Cuisine: Deli-style sandwiches
Must-try dish: Turkey Avocado with Pesto Mayo
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 11pm (Fri–Sun) and at 10pm (Mon–Thur)

With retro flair and bold sandwich combos, Bread Box offers fresh deli flavors, high-quality meats, and fresh vegetables. Think grilled cheese with a twist, hearty soups, and loaded subs perfect for a casual, quick bite.

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

Cuisine: Steampunk-themed American
Must-try dish: Chocolate Almond Bread + Artisanal Milkshakes
Pricing: Mid to high-range
Timings: 10:30am–10:30pm

This whimsical steampunk eatery delights with imaginative entrees, over-the-top desserts, and costumed characters. Think truffle burgers, cocoa-rubbed pork, and towering milkshakes.

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Cuisine: Sushi + Burgers fusion
Must-try dish: Burgushi (burger-sushi hybrid)
Pricing: Mid to high-range
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 10:30pm (Sun–Thur) and at 11pm (Fri–Sat)

A quirky fusion eatery serving up both gourmet burgers and sushi under one roof. Perfect for mixed cravings and adventurous eaters looking for something outside the ordinary.

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

Cuisine: Mexican
Must-try dish: Tableside Guacamole
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 4–11pm (Sun–Thur) and 3-11pm (Fri–Sat)

From vibrant decor to a live Mariachi band, this sit-down restaurant is full of personality. Enjoy handmade guacamole and craft margaritas while soaking in authentic Mexican flavors and atmosphere.

Bigfire

Cuisine: American open-fire grill
Must-try dish: Bison Burger or Campfire S'mores
Pricing: Mid to high-range
Timings: 4pm–10pm (Sun–Thur) and 3–10:30pm (Fri–Sat)

Bigfire brings open-flame cooking to the forefront, offering grilled classics with a smoky twist. Its warm, lodge-inspired interiors make it ideal for a cozy, upscale dinner.

Bob Marley—A Tribute to Freedom

Cuisine: Jamaican/Caribbean
Must-try dish: Oxtail Stew or Jerk Chicken
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 5pm–midnight (Sun–Thur) and 5pm–1am (Fri–Sat)

This open-air restaurant celebrates Bob Marley’s legacy with Jamaican cuisine, reggae rhythms, and memorabilia. It offers a unique dining experience with vibrant flavors in both food and vibe.

Hard Rock Cafe Orlando

Cuisine: American classics
Must-try dish: Legendary Burger
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 11am–midnight

The world’s largest Hard Rock Cafe delivers big portions and rock memorabilia in an electric, concert-hall atmosphere. Expect classic burgers, nachos, live music, and a full bar.

NBC Sports Grill & Brew

Cuisine: American bar & grill
Must-try dish: Giant Bavarian Pretzel + House-Brewed Beer
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: Opens at 11am and closes at 11pm (Sun–Fri) and at midnight on Sat

With over 100 HD screens and a massive craft beer menu, this is the ultimate game-day restaurant. Serves hearty portions of burgers, ribs, and wings in a high-energy setting.

Fat Tuesday

Cuisine: Frozen cocktails
Must-try drink: 190 Octane or Cat 5 Hurricane
Pricing: Budget to mid-range
Timings: 4pm–midnight

A party staple, this walk-up bar serves potent frozen cocktails you can take to go. It is quick, colorful, and iconic in the nightlife scene at CityWalk.

Lone Palm Airport

Cuisine: Frozen cocktails
Must-try drink: 190 Octane or Cat 5 Hurricane
Pricing: Budget to mid-range
Timings: 4pm–midnight

A party staple, this walk-up bar serves potent frozen cocktails you can take to go. It is quick, colorful, and iconic in the nightlife scene at CityWalk.

Menchie’s Frozen Yogurt

Cuisine: Frozen yogurt
Must-try dish: DIY froyo with toppings
Pricing: Budget-friendly
Timings: 11am–11pm (Thur–Sun) and noon–10pm (Mon–Wed)

Build your own froyo masterpiece with a wide range of flavors and toppings. Self-serve machines and endless mix-ins make it a hit with families and snackers seeking a cool treat.

Cold Stone Creamery

Cuisine: Ice cream
Must-try dish: “Founder's Favorite” Signature Creation
Pricing: Low to mid-range
Timings: 11am–midnight (Fri–Sat) and noon–10pm (Sun–Thur)

Mix-ins galore! Watch staff mash your favorite candies and cookies into premium ice cream on a frozen slab. Cold Stone’s theatrical prep style makes dessert fun to watch and eat.

Leaky Cauldron, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley

Cuisine: British Pub Fare
Must-try dish: Toad in the Hole
Pricing: Mid-range
Timings: 9am–9pm

Step straight into the world of Harry Potter for a rustic British meal of fish and chips and cottage pie under flickering lanterns and medieval stone arches.

Dining with characters at Universal Orlando restaurants

Year-round character dining experiences

Despicable Me character breakfast, Loews Royal Pacific Resort (Tahiti Room)
When: Saturdays (subject to change)
Start your morning with Gru and his mischievous Minions, plus Margo, Edith, and Agnes. Expect themed breakfast favorites, interactive moments, and great photo ops. Open to hotel and non-hotel guests with reservations.

Marvel Character Dinner, Cafe 4 in Islands of Adventure
When: On Select evenings
Meet legendary heroes like Spider-Man, Captain America, Wolverine, and Storm over a buffet dinner. The setting is casual, the character interactions are generous, and the photos are included.

Seasonal & limited-time offerings

Grinch & Friends Character Breakfast (Holidays at Universal Orlando), Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendous in Islands of Adventure
When: Mid-November to December (daily)
A whimsical holiday breakfast featuring The Grinch, Max, and other Whoville residents. Known for hilarious interactions with the Grinch and festive holiday-themed dishes.

Halloween Horror Nights Scareactor Dining Experience, Universal Studios Florida (location varies)
When: Select HHN dates (Sept–Oct)
Not your typical character meal—dine with scareactors in full costume before the event begins. Includes buffet dinner and photo ops in themed settings. Adults and teens only; not recommended for young children.

Dining at Universal Orlando’s On-Site Hotels

Premier hotels

(Hard Rock Hotel, Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, and Loews Royal Pacific Resort)

The Palm (Hard Rock Hotel) – Classic American steakhouse in a refined setting.
Bice Ristorante (Portofino Bay) – Elegant Northern Italian cuisine overlooking the harbor.
Islands Dining Room (Royal Pacific) – Asian fusion with tropical flair and occasional character breakfasts.
Orchid Court Lounge (Royal Pacific) – Sushi, small plates, and cocktails in a serene lobby lounge.

Preferred hotels

(Loews Sapphire Falls Resort)

Amatista Cookhouse – Caribbean-inspired dishes served all day with lagoon views.
Strong Water Tavern – Rum-forward bar with a small plates menu and mixology vibes.

Prime Value hotels

(Cabana Bay Beach Resort and Aventura Hotel)

Bayliner Diner (Cabana Bay) – Food court with global stations, perfect for families.
Galaxy Bowl Restaurant (Cabana Bay) – Classic American fare served inside the hotel’s retro bowling alley.
Urban Pantry (Aventura) – Food hall with rotating menus and open kitchens.

Value hotel

(Universal’s Endless Summer Resort – Surfside & Dockside Inn and Suites)

Beach Break Cafe / Pier 8 Market – Affordable and casual with breakfast platters, burgers, pizzas, and more.

Visitor tips

Reservations are highly recommended, especially at table service restaurants across the resort.
Most places offer mobile ordering, so use it strategically. Place your order while in line for a ride or during a lull — it beats waiting in food queues at peak lunch hours.
Potterheads, avoid Three Broomsticks and Leaky Cauldron during peak hours (noon-2pm). Eat there before 11:30am or after 2:30pm for a shorter wait and more seating.
Some restaurants in CityWalk (like Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville and Pat O’Brien’s) have weekday happy hours with discounted drinks and appetizers.
Many full-service restaurants in CityWalk stay open after the parks close. Book a dinner reservation around the park's closing hours and ride until the last minute.
Non-guests are welcome to dine at all on-site restaurants.
If you have dietary restrictions, email food.allergy@universalorlando.com a few days before your trip. They’ll send tailored info and alert chefs in advance.

Frequently asked questions about Universal Orlando restaurants

Do I need a park ticket to dine at Universal Orlando restaurants?

Yes. If the restaurant is inside a theme park, you’ll need valid park admission. For CityWalk or hotel restaurants, no ticket is required.

How early should I make my table reservations?

Book as early as possible, ideally 30–60 days ahead, especially for popular spots like Mythos or Toothsome. Reservations fill up fast during weekends and holidays.

Are walk-ins accepted at popular restaurants like Mythos or Toothsome?

Yes, but it’s a gamble. Walk-ins are accepted based on availability, and wait times can be long (60+ minutes sometimes). If you’re set on a specific place, you're better off booking ahead.

Are Universal Orlando restaurants expensive?

It depends on where you go. Quick-service meals average $15–$20 per person, while full-service restaurants range from $25–$50+ per person. But there are budget-friendly snacks and shareable options, too.

How much should I budget for my meals?

If you eat three meals in the parks or CityWalk, plan for around $60- $75 per adult per day. The cost will be less if you stick to quick-service spots and more if you dine at full-service.

Do all restaurants have a kids’ menu?

Almost all sit-down and quick-service locations offer kids’ menus, with smaller portions and simpler choices. Even Toothsome’s over-the-top milkshakes can be made kid-sized!

Can I bring my own food or snacks into the parks?

You can bring small snacks and non-alcoholic drinks, but full meals and coolers aren’t allowed. Exceptions are made for medical needs and baby food.

Can I bring food from CityWalk into the parks?

Unfortunately, no. Food and drinks purchased in CityWalk must be consumed before entering the parks.

Is tipping required at full-service restaurants?

Yes. Just like any sit-down restaurant, tipping is expected. The standard is 18–20%. Some places add gratuity for large parties, so check your bill.

Which restaurant would you suggest for a kid’s birthday celebrations?

Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is a fan favorite for birthdays. It features whimsical decor, interactive characters, and outrageous milkshakes. Just be ready for a serious sugar rush.