Last Updated: July 2025
Epic Universe officially opened to the public in May 2025, and now, two months in, more restaurants have opened their doors and new food items are popping up all over the park.
Mr. Garlic and I had our first-ever visit on May 15th, and stepping into the long-awaited Epic Universe felt just as magical, immersive, and absolutely massive as we imagined. This post contains our first impressions, especially when it comes to food and drinks, because let's be honest, that's the real reason we go anywhere.
We visited during a special preview while the park was still in technical rehearsals. That meant limited crowds (bless), but also limited food options, since not everything was open yet. Since then, quite a few things have changed or been updated for the official Grand Opening, so I'll continue updating this post as new menus roll out and we try more items.
This guide covers everything currently available to eat (and everything we've personally tried so far) across all five lands of the park. You'll find links to menus, highlights, photos, our tips, and our honest thoughts on the food, drinks, and overall dining experiences in each area. I've also included notes on park vibes, where to find each spot, and whether certain options may work for those with allergies or dietary needs.
As more locations open and menus expand, I'll keep this guide updated, so go ahead and bookmark it or subscribe for notifications. I'll also be adding more detailed notes on allergy-friendly and gluten-free options as that information becomes available.
Let's dig in!
Jump to:
- Celestial Park (Epic Universe Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
- Dark Universe (Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
- The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Food, Drink, and First Impressions)
- How to Train Your Dragon-Isle of Berk (Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
- Super Nintendo World (Food, Drinks, and First Impressions)
- Additional Information & FAQ's:
- Reviews
Celestial Park (Epic Universe Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
Step through the Chronos gates and into Celestial Park, the central hub of Epic Universe and one of the most visually stunning areas in the entire park. Here, Art Nouveau design meets mythology, with towering statues of Luna and Apollo, dreamy water features, and sweeping views of the Helios Grand Hotel presiding over it all.
This land leans into vintage celestial aesthetics. Think soft curves, golden accents, and cosmic elegance. Photos and videos don't quite do it justice. There's something magical about standing beneath one of those massive statues or watching sunlight dance off the fountains as music plays around you. It's serene, surreal, and honestly... just epic.
But Celestial Park isn't just pretty, it's also home to a surprisingly strong lineup of food and drink options. From quick snacks to signature cocktails and full sit-down meals, this is where our food adventure begins.
Here's a list of all the current food and drink locations in Celestial Park. (I'll be linking to menus to the names of the locations and marking which spots require reservations and offer dietary-friendly options as that info becomes available):
Bars & Lounges:
- Bar Zenith (Quick Service): A sleek, futuristic cocktail bar with a moody glow and a great place to escape the sun, featuring 'Cosmic Cocktail Creations' and 'a view of Celestial Park's extravagant fountain shows'. Located near Stardust Racers.
- Bar Helios (Table Service, $$$, Reservations Required, GF Options Available Upon Request): Located on the top floor of the Helios Grand Hotel, this elegant spot offers upscale mythology-themed cocktails, snacks, and panoramic views of the park. Reservations can be made online or by phone.
- The Plastered Owl (Quick Service): A walk-up bar connected to The Oak & Star Tavern, perfect for a quick pint or themed cocktail. Live music daily beginning at 10:45 a.m.
- Celestiki (Quick Service): 'The trendiest tiki bar in the cosmos', located in between Pizza Moon and the entrance the Dark Universe. This location features frozen cocktails and icy drinks served with stellar views of the water fountains. We tried a frozen margarita from here, which was a must on a hot day!
Snacks, Treats, & Quick Service:
- Frosty Moon (Quick Service, Vegan options Available): An ice cream stand, located directly in front of the Dark Universe entrance, offering whimsical treats, seasonal flavors, fun toppings, and photo-worthy cones.
- Starbucks: Multiple locations throughout the park for coffee, tea, and the usual lineup of grab-and-go snacks.
- Comet Dogs (Quick Service): A stand located near the Constellation Caousal, offering classic theme park hot dogs with unique & fun toppings. Some examples include Bulgogi, Philly Cheesesteak, and Al Pastor (def trying this one next time!).
- Star Sui Bao(Quick Service): Located near Stardust Racers this Asian Food Cart features flavorful, Asian-inspired snacks and small plates.
Find my full review of Star Sui Bao here.
Sit-Down Dining:
- Pizza Moon (Quick Service, Lunch & Dinner, Alcohol Available, Allergy Menu Available): A beautifully themed quick service pizza location with fun toppings and indoor seating. Located just before the entrance to Dark Universe, and our favorite location we have tried thus far.
Find my full review of Pizza Moon here.
- The Oak & Star Tavern (Quick Serve, All-Day Menu, Alcohol Available, Allergy Menu Available) Located just before the entrance to Dark Universe, this tavern-style dining location features BBQ favorites and craft brews in a warmly themed cozy setting. The mango bread is a must!
- The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant (Full Service, $$$, Reservations Required): Located in front of the Grand Helios Hotel, Pan-Asian flavors meet stylish, highly-themed dining. Now open and accepting reservations online or by phone.
- Atlantic (Full Service, $$$, All-Day Menu, Reservations required) : Located near the front of Celestial Park, 'Atlantic is an undersea culinary fantasy. Inside glass walls reminiscent of an enormous Victorian aquarium'. A gorgeously themed high-end restaurant with a focus on seafood. Reservations can be made online or by phone.
Dark Universe (Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
Aside from the Wizarding World, this was the land I was most excited to explore! If you've been following me for a while, you probably already know that I love all things spooky and magical, so this creepy corner of Epic Universe instantly had my heart.
Walking through the portal into Darkmoor Village, the eerie, fog-filled home to vampires, monsters, and mysterious mad-scientists, you're immediately hit with the scent of damp earth and fog (yes, the land actually smells spooky. Think Halloween Horror Nights.)
The entire area is drenched in theming, from crooked chimneys and crumbling rooftops to alchemical symbols and flickering lanterns. It feels like stepping straight into a gothic fairytale.
There are creepy corners, flickering signs, moody soundscapes, and tons of fun photo ops, including a "Monster Meet & Greet" area where we spotted some of the Universal classic creatures hanging around (Frankenstein, the Invisible Man, and Egor!) But of course, we were also here for the food and drinks.
Here's what you can find in Dark Universe so far (I'll be linking to menus to the names of the locations and marking which spots require reservations and offer dietary-friendly options as that info becomes available):
Bars:
- The Burning Blade Tavern (Quick Service, Allergy Notes Available) : Tucked near the back of Darkmoor Village, this eerie tavern serves up alcoholic beverages and spooky twists on classic bar bites. Expect glowing cocktails, brooding lighting, and a vibe straight out of a haunted inn.
Find my full review of Burning Blade Tavern here.
Snack & Treats:
- De Lacey's Cottage (Quick Service, Alcohol Available): A charmingly creepy snack stand near Frankenstein's Castle. Here you'll find Frankenstein-shaped pretzels, sweet cinnamon bites (these looked amazing!), and other monster-friendly treats. A great place to grab something quick while exploring the land.
Sit-Down Quick Service:
- Das Stakehaus (Quick Service, Alcohol Available, Allergy Info Available): Get it? "Stake" house. This vampire-themed dining hall sits near the front of Darkmoor Village and offers table service in a spooky old inn setting covered with gothic details, vampire portraits, and ancient artifacts. On the menu: burgers, kebabs, and other spooky 'stake' themed fare. 'Just don't venture down to the catacombs below, or you might find yourself on the vampires' menu.'
Find my Full Review of Das Stakehaus here.
The Wizarding World of Harry Potter (Food, Drink, and First Impressions)
This was the land I was most excited for. I'm a HUGE Harry Potter fan and even more so when it comes to the Fantastic Beasts series. I'm basically the female version of Newt Scamander, so when I saw this land was themed after 1920s France like in Crimes of Grindelwald, I knew I had to soak in every corner. The theming? Immaculate and magical with little animatronic fantastic beasts hiding in ever corner.
Throughout the land, you'll find several magically themed food and drink stops (I'll be linking to menus, marking which spots require reservations, and offer dietary-friendly options as that info becomes available):
Beverages & Cocktails:
- Bar Moonshine (Quick Service): Located in the far right corner of the Wizarding World, a charming little outdoor bar serving French-inspired magical cocktails. You can also find Bièraubeurre™ (Butterbeer) at the location which is suitable for those with gluten, egg, and nut allergies! Outdoor seating only.
Find my full Bar Moonshine review here. - Bieraubeurre Cart: A small butterbeer cart parked near the main attraction, Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry.
Snacks & Treats:
- K. Rammelle: A beautiful roccoco-style shop serving up 'tasty confectioneries that are equal parts sugar & magic'. We tried one of the pistachio macarons! It was tasty, tender, and sweet, although a bit light on the pistachio flavor.
Sit-Down Quick Service:
- Le Goblet Noir (Quick Sercive, Alcohol Available, Allergy Info Available): A dim sit-down quick service restaurant, located next tp the home of Nicolas Flamel, offering German and French-style comfort food in a cozy, stone-walled interior.
- Café L'Air de la Sirène (Quick Service, All Day Menu, Alcohol Available, Allergy Info Available): A charming sit-down bistro serving French-inspired fare in a stunning 1920s Art Nouveau setting. Here is where you'll find the popular butterbeer crepes!
Find my full Cafe L'air de la Sirene Review here.
Also during our last visit, the main attraction (Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry) was unfortunately closed. However, we were allowed to walk through the queue, and it gave us a stunning first look inside the Ministry of Magic (and let me tell you, it's impressive, folks). Even without the ride, just stepping into this land felt like crossing into the real Wizarding World.
Update: I have since ridden the ride during normal operating hours! Mr. Garlic & our friends RAN towards the queue when it was listed at only a 140 minute wait (it's usually closer to 360 minutes). Unfortunately due to the ride breaking down multiple times, we waiting closer to FIVE HOURS.
Was it worth it?
......No. The ride is neat, but honestly the queue is the coolest part. And I think we were all so exhausted and annoyed by the time we got there that we were just ready to get out of that building.
How to Train Your Dragon-Isle of Berk (Food, Drink, and First Impressions):
This land is visually stunning. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted by massive Viking statues, glistening water, and an incredible view of the main attraction, Hiccup's Wing Gliders.
We had big food plans for this section, but unfortunately… we were way too full to follow through. (Next time for sure, everything here looked delicious!)
In this land you can find a variety of meats, sweet treats, and drinks. Here's a quick rundown of what you can expect (I'll be linking to menus, marking which spots require reservations, and which offer dietary-friendly options as that info becomes available):
- Hooligan's Grog & Gruel (Snack Stand, Lunch & Dinner, Alcohol Available, Allergy Info Available): A small snack stand serving up some big snacks! Viking-inspired drinks and Mac & Cheese bread cones with unique toppings (PB & J anyone?)
- Mead Hall (Sit-Down Quick Service, Alcohol Available, Online Menu Not Yet Available): A large quick-service dining space with carved wood, long tables, and a menu of meat, fish, and mead (of course!). Fit for a viking!
- Spit Frye Grill (Quick Service, Lunch & Dinner, Alcohol Available, Allergy Info Available): An outdoor quick service grill offering a hearty selection of meat, greens, and grains.
Find my full Spit Fyre Grill Review here.
Super Nintendo World (Food, Drinks, and First Impressions)
If you're a Nintendo fan, this land is a must. It's impossible to walk in and not audibly say, "Woah." The level of immersion is incredible. It truly feels like you've been pulled straight out of real life and dropped into the colorful, chaotic world of our favorite Nintendo characters.
This land is two stories, with Bowser's Castle and Peach's Castle towering above, and shops and dining tucked below. The vertical design makes the entire area feel alive and immersive. Every direction you turn, there's something moving, glowing, or animating around you.
Through a side tunnel, you'll find Donkey Kong Country, which includes its own snack stand and the new attraction Donkey Kong: Mine-Cart Madness. Unfortunately, this ride wasn't running at the time of our visit, but I got a good look at the track and theming, and I cannot wait to experience it when it's open.
We did get to ride Mario Kart: Bowser's Challenge, and let me just say, it blew my mind. The use of augmented reality and interactivity was so well done. It genuinely felt like being inside the game, steering, racing, and battling through familiar courses with your team. I kept shaking Mr. Garlic's arm and exclaiming 'Look at this!' 'It's Rainbow Road!'. Truly a highlight of the day.
As for food and drink, this land keeps the theming going with some seriously fun and creative options (I'll be linking to menus, marking which spots require reservations, and offer dietary-friendly options as that info becomes available):
- Toadstool Café (Quick Service, Healthy Options, Allergy Info Available): Chef Toad has been hard at work crafting themed meals like burgers, meatballs, and tiramisu, all with Mushroom Kingdom flair and adorable presentation.
- Turbo-Boost Treats (Snack Stand): A small snack stand near Bowser's Castle, serving up popcorn and drinks to fuel your next power-up.
- Yoshi's Snack Island (Snack Stand): A tropical-themed snack stand, located on the bottom floor, with fruit smoothies and shell-shaped pizza calzones. Yes, they're as cute as they sound.
- The Bubbly Barrel (Snack Stand): Located inside Donkey Kong Country, this stand serves up tropical drinks and banana flavored sweet treats, many of which come in collectible barrel cups!
Additional Information & FAQ's:
Yes! Mobile ordering is available at every quick service restaurant. Simply scan the QR code on your table or open the Universal app to begin. Enter your table number and, in most cases, your food will be brought directly to you.
Yes. When placing your order, you'll either choose a time slot or select "I'm here, make my order." Just enter your table number, and you're good to go!
Nope! Every quick service location also has a staffed terminal available, so you can still order the old-fashioned way without a phone or app.
No, unlike the other Universal parks, Epic Universe uses a large surface lot (think more like Hollywood Studios in Orlando).
No, there are no trams or transportation services in the lot at this time. Be prepared for a walk from your car to the entrance, especially if you're parked far back. Keep this in mind if anyone in your group has mobility concerns.
Prime Parking is currently $60 and located about ¼ mile from the entrance (for now, more prime parking areas are expected to open soon). It may be worth it if you want a shorter walk, easier-to-find car at the end of the day, or are visiting with someone who has mobility issues.
Only three table service restaurants currently require reservations: The Atlantic, Blue Dragon Pan-Asian, & Bar Helios (located within the Helios Grand Hotel). All other dining locations in the park are currently first come, first served.
You can make dining reservations through the Universal Orlando app, online, or by phone.
Yes, the park is ADA accessible. However, it's worth noting that this is a very stair-heavy park. Elevators are available near every set of stairs, including inside lands and ride queues, but you'll likely be using them frequently.
Yes, each ride has specific height requirements. These are posted at the entrance of each attraction and listed in the Universal app.
Express Pass has not yet been confirmed for Epic Universe, but it's expected to be available closer to opening. Check the Universal app or website for updates.
Yes! Rider swap (also called child swap) is available for most major attractions, allowing adults to take turns riding while someone stays with a non-rider.
Yes, re-entry is allowed as long as you keep your ticket or pass with you and follow any hand-stamp or biometric instructions. Ask a team member before exiting for up-to-date protocols.
Yes. Lockers are available near the entrance and at select attractions that don't allow loose items (such as roller coasters).
You may bring in small snacks and bottled water. Outside food for medical needs or dietary restrictions is generally allowed, but check the Universal Orlando policy for full details.
Yes, Epic Universe offers refillable freestyle drink cups and souvenir popcorn buckets, available for purchase throughout the park.
Yes, rentals are available at the entrance to the park on a first-come, first-served basis. You can also bring your own.
Yes, there is a restroom located between the parking lot and the security checkpoint, which is especially helpful after a long drive or before entering the park.
Yes and no. If you're hoping to ride everything as a family, this park might not be the best fit for very young children. Most attractions are thrill rides with height requirements. That said, there's still plenty for kids to enjoy: immersive theming, fun food, and character interactions throughout the lands.
As someone who visits the parks at least once a week, here are my must-haves:
A portable charger (your phone will drain fast using the app and taking photos)
A refillable water bottle and small snack
An umbrella or poncho (Florida weather changes fast)
Antibacterial hand wipes
Sunglasses and sunscreen
A mini medication baggie with aspirin, Tums, allergy meds, etc.
Bonus tip: comfortable shoes and a backup hair tie go a long way, too!
What are you most excited to try at Epic Universe?
Comment below with the snack, ride, or land that's been on your mind. I'd love to hear what you're most looking forward to! Or, if there's something you've tried and would recommend.
Overall, I really enjoyed Epic Universe. The theming is top-tier, the food might be the best I've ever had in a theme park, and the mobile ordering system makes dining surprisingly smooth. Be sure to bookmark this post, as I'll be updating it throughout the year with new visits and full reviews of the sit-down restaurants.
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Must Love Garlic says
Let me know what you have tried or what you're looking forward to trying!