The 5 Restaurants You Shouldn’t Skip When Visiting Universal Orlando

Universal Orlando, a titan among global entertainment destinations, attracts over 20 million visitors every year. With four distinct theme parks—Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay, and the upcoming Epic Universe—there’s no shortage of adventures waiting. But after a day filled with exhilarating rides and unforgettable attractions, one essential question arises: Where should you eat? Here’s a breakdown of five must-visit restaurants, according to visitor reviews.

1. Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Inspired by the beloved movie Forrest Gump, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. offers a delightful dining experience right at Universal CityWalk. With an impressive average rating of 4.8 on Google from over 21,000 reviews, this restaurant is a fan favorite.

At Bubba Gump, you’ll find a plethora of seafood options, ranging from shrimp dishes to the iconic Lieutenant Dan’s Pork Ribs. The themed decor—complete with Forrest Gump memorabilia—adds to the whimsical atmosphere. Guests rave about the interactive trivia games that keep the fun rolling long after the meal starts. “The food is top-notch! The service is top-notch! I would still enjoy going here even if it had nothing to do with the movie,” says one enthusiastic reviewer.

2. Hooligan’s Grog and Gruel

For fans of How to Train Your Dragon, Hooligan’s Grog and Gruel is a hidden gem located in the Isle of Berk area within Epic Universe. This modest food stand has taken the park by storm with its unique mac and cheese cones.

The signature offerings—like the Dragon Fire Chicken Spire and the PB&J (Pulled Pork, Bacon, and Jam)—have gained a cult following since their introduction in 2025. With a solid average rating of 4.7 on Google, visitors simply can’t get enough of the flavorful, gourmet twists on this classic comfort food. One reviewer exclaimed, “This is a must at Epic Universe. Super garlicky bread and well-seasoned mac and cheese create a delightful experience.”

3. Butterbeer Cart

No trip to Universal Orlando is complete without indulging in the magical Butterbeer, especially from the highly-rated Butterbeer Cart found in Islands of Adventure. Serving this iconic drink in its warm, cold, or frozen forms, the cart has amassed a stunning 4.6 average rating on Google.

Butterbeer’s sweet and creamy flavor, reminiscent of cream soda, captures the hearts of Harry Potter fans and theme park-goers alike. A dedicated following has formed around this drink, with some visitors declaring they enter the park solely for a taste. “Hands down, that’s the one thing at Universal Orlando that stands alone,” remarked Steven Jayson, a corporate executive chef at Universal Parks and Resorts. One reviewer captures the allure perfectly by stating, “If you’re looking for a refreshing pick-me-up, get yourself a Butterbeer!”

4. De Lacey’s Cottage

Nestled within the Dark Universe section of Epic Universe, De Lacey’s Cottage introduces a whimsical twist to snacks with its Frankenstein-themed offerings. From adorable Frankenstein-shaped pretzels to delicious cinnamon bites, this food stand has quickly become a crowd favorite since opening in 2025.

With an impressive average rating of 4.5 on Google and 4.7 on Yelp, visitors praise its quirky appeal. One Yelp reviewer noted it as a “sleeper spot,” emphasizing that the modest signage could lead guests astray. But once you find it, the delightful treats make it worth the search. “The Warm-Hearted Cinnamon bites are delectable!” they add.

5. The Velvet Bar

For those seeking a more relaxed vibe, The Velvet Bar at the Hard Rock Hotel offers a stylish setting with live music and a sophisticated menu. Average ratings hover around 4.5 on Google, reflecting visitors’ love for its vibrant atmosphere and creative cocktails.

Expect a menu that features everything from focaccia-style pizzas to upscale items like caviar paired with French onion dip. One reviewer expressed their admiration, saying, “This turned out to be our favorite place, and we ended up at The Velvet Bar three nights in a row.” The blend of good food, unique cocktails, and lively entertainment makes it a perfect spot for unwinding after a long day of theme park adventures.

Methodology

To curate this list, extensive research was conducted on the several dining options available throughout Universal Orlando. Sources included the official Universal Orlando website, travel sites like AllEars.com, and fan discussions on social platforms such as Reddit. Each establishment was evaluated based on reviews from Google, Yelp, and Tripadvisor to ensure only the best recommendations made the cut.

Exploring Universal Orlando isn’t just about the thrilling rides; it’s equally about the culinary delights awaiting you. So, whether you’re diving into seafood at Bubba Gump, savoring a magical Butterbeer, or indulging in whimsical treats at De Lacey’s Cottage, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant gastronomic landscape.