Top Five Tips for Gluten Free Dining at Universal Orlando

Caitlin White
10.19.21

When my husband first went gluten-free almost ten years ago, it was a struggle to find restaurants that could accommodate him while traveling. While that has certainly changed in the past few years, planning for gluten-free dining still takes a little extra effort. One of the destinations I have been the most impressed with is Universal Orlando Resort.

Here are my top five tips for gluten-free travelers at Universal-

1. Check Menus Ahead of Time

Gluten-free travelers already know the importance of doing this, but Universal Orlando has made it so easy. All of the restaurants have their menus posted online or in the Universal Orlando app. Not every restaurant has their gluten-free options labeled directly on these menus, but it offers a good starting point for which restaurants are your best bet.

2. Reach out to Universal with Questions

Universal’s website has a page specific to dietary accommodations. There is lots of good information there and they also offer the option to contact them ahead of time. You can email food.allergy@universalorlando.com with specific questions.

3. Ask Questions

Universal’s Team Members are helpful and well-trained. When you are dining at Quick-Service or Full-Service restaurants, don’t hesitate to ask your server for guidance or ask to speak with the chef. Most restaurants have a gluten-free list or binder available if there isn’t information labeled.  Some accommodations can be made in the Universal Orlando app when pre-ordering food. However, we often found it easier to talk to a Team Member when ordering to be sure his food came out correctly.

4. Eat at Mythos

Mythos, located in the Lost Continent area of Islands of Adventure, is continuously ranked in the Best Theme Park restaurants. The food is amazing. The theming is awe-inspiring. It provides a great (air-conditioned) place to relax and watch the VelociCoaster run. Plus, they are fantastic at accommodating food allergies and have a wide variety of gluten-free options.

5. Bring Your Own Snacks

If there is a specific snack you love, bring it along. Universal allows outside food- even soft sided coolers- to be brought into the parks as long there are no glass containers. This tip also works well for hungry children! Mine always decide they are starving just as we have gotten in line for something so have a few snacks stashed away is a big help.

Need some inspiration? Here are some of our gluten-friendly favorites-

• Chicken Tacos from Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck at Universal Studios Florida (ask for corn tortillas)
• The Great Feast from The Three Broomsticks at Islands of Adventure
• Chargrilled Ribs Platter from Thunder Falls Terrace at Islands of Adventure
• Grilled Chicken Salad from Mel’s Diner at Universal Studios Florida (ask for no croutons)
• Soft serve from Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Shop in Universal Studios Florida
• Bonus - Butterbeer and popcorn are both gluten free!

Ready to plan your Universal Orlando Resort adventure? I’d love to help! Reach out to me by email at caitlin@wishesfamilytravel.com or phone at 443.299.9197. I share lots of tips and photos about Universal Orlando (and other destinations) on Instagram or Facebook.

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