My Top 3 Hidden Gem Quick Food Options at Universal
By: Amy Baranek, Vacation Experience Architect
April 7, 2022
If you’ve been to Universal before, you may know some of the big name dining locations- Voodoo Donuts, Toothsome Chocolate Emporium, Three Broomsticks and The Leaky Cauldron. However, there are some places that you may never have thought to try, but are on my list to visit every time we are at the parks!
Central Park Crepes: (Universal) Make a right past Today Cafe and head down the road, until you hit the small crepe stand. You will find this small outside stand near the water. Take a look at the menu and decide between a savory or sweet crepe. The menu has some seasonal elements, so crepe options will change! There are even vegan options (which are delicious)! My son’s favorite is the Cookies and Cream crepe (no surprise, when given the option between savory and sweet…what does a boy pick?!) I will usually pick the vegan savory option, each visit has been a different option and both were delicious! Be forewarned, the line here can get a little long since all crepes are made fresh as you order, but it is so worth the wait! There is no seating here, however, we found a nice shaded area with many benches if you follow the lake to the left.
Today Cafe: (Universal) It’s hard to miss this cafe as you enter the park, you will see it on your right hand side as you continue down the main entrance. This cafe has everything but your traditional theme park quick service food. From delicious one-of-a-kind pastries, artisan sandwiches and salads, breakfast sandwiches, fruit bowls and even cheese platters, the options here are a welcome change to your traditional theme park food options. There are options to eat inside or outside here. My recommendation is do not miss out on dessert!
Fire Eater’s Grill: (Islands of Adventure) This is the perfect spot for those who have some in their group who wants a little something different, and those who like that traditional theme park food. You have your traditional chicken fingers (regular and spicy), chili cheese dog, but also have gyros and falafel and a delicious dessert option of edible cookie dough. This is located in the Lost Continent between Seuss Landing and Hogsmeade; it is right by the gate that heads to the Velocicoaster area. There is outdoor seating available next to and around this quick service location.
I love these theme park options, you won’t even believe you are getting such great food in a theme park! It is a welcome change of pace to what you normally think of when grabbing a quick bite in the parks. Universal has so many wonderful food options available, these are the 3 I often find myself dreaming about after we leave the parks!
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