By Juliana Octavini
Imagine spending the whole day at Epic Universe, exploring its five worlds, waiting in line, enjoying the attractions and then, on your way out, realizing you missed one of the park's most unusual desserts. Or worse: spending almost US$30 on an unremarkable meal when, just a few steps away, there was a much more interesting option.
Does that sound exaggerated? Not really.
Dining at Epic Universe was designed to be part of the experience, not merely a way to eat between attractions. There are restaurants that look like something out of a movie, dishes inspired by characters, desserts that resemble video game objects and even a Viking feast that can be shared by the family.
The problem is that, faced with so many possibilities, it is difficult to decide what really deserves attention. Especially when we only have one day to visit the park and every dollar spent makes a difference to the budget.
When Universal announced Epic Universe, it unveiled more than 100 new food and drink options across roughly 30 venues. We covered some of them in our article Epic Universe brings more than 100 food options – see what to expect!
Now that the park is open, the question has changed. It is not enough to know what is available: we need to find out what to order, how much it costs, where to find it and which choices make the most sense for each visitor.
It was with this in mind that I prepared this selection. There are options for those who want to save money, for those who like to try different flavors, for families with children and for those who want to transform lunch or dinner into an attraction in itself.
An important note before starting: the values shown are in US dollars, were researched in menus and references from 2026 and may change. Prices do not include taxes or possible tips. As not all official menus publicly display prices, some prices are references from independent surveys, identified throughout the text.
First, how dining works at Epic Universe
Epic Universe has five themed areas, each with its own gastronomic identity.
In SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, the food looks like it came straight out of Mario games. In How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, we find hearty meals inspired by Viking culture. Dark Universe focuses on dishes with a darker presentation, while The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic features French-inspired cuisine.
Celestial Park brings together some of the most varied options in the park, including a pizzeria, American barbecue, Asian restaurant and a sophisticated gastronomic experience in an environment inspired by the bottom of the sea.
There are quick service establishments, where the visitor places an order without needing a traditional waiter, and restaurants with table service, more suitable for those who want a relaxed meal.
My first recommendation is not to choose the restaurant just because it is close to the attraction you just left. It is worth exploring your options beforehand, especially if there's a dish or dessert you'd really like to try.
To understand the distribution of the five worlds and organize the route, also consult our complete Epic Universe guide.
The most distinctive foods at Epic Universe: what I would put on my list
Some dishes stand out for their presentation. Others offer unconventional combinations. And there are those that, although they seem simple, help create an experience that would hardly be the same outside the park.
That does not mean every one of them offers the best flavor or value. But they are options that deserve to be considered.
1. Mario Burger — Toadstool Cafe
$19.99
Where: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD • Toadstool Café
The Mario Burger combines beef patty, bacon, mushrooms, lettuce, tomato, American cheese and Thousand Island sauce, served with truffle fries.
The main draw is the presentation, with details drawn from the Mario universe. It's the type of dish that tends to catch the attention of children and Nintendo fans even before the first bite.
But I would make a distinction: for approximately US$20, we are talking about a themed burger, not necessarily a sophisticated dining experience.
If the intention is to visit Toadstool Cafe and try something visually striking, it makes sense. If the priority is to save money, there are more interesting alternatives in other areas of the park.
2. Bowser's Fireball Challenge — Toadstool Cafe
$25.99
Where: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD • Toadstool Café
A large meatball, approximately one pound (454 grams), topped with mozzarella and mushroom marinara sauce, accompanied by decorative puff pastry and hot sauce served on the side.
This is one of the restaurant's most curious dishes, both because of its size and its reference to the games' villain.
I would consider sharing it, especially if you also plan to try a dessert. The size of the meatball, however, does not necessarily mean that the dish is enough for two full meals.
Be careful with the hot sauce: if you dislike strong flavors, use it sparingly.
3. Thawfest Platter — Mead Hall
$49.99 to $50
Where: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk • Mead Hall
A feast of chicken, grilled salmon, sausage, sides and sauces, served in a presentation inspired by Viking meals.
This is one of the dishes I would most consider for a family or small group. Not just because of the theme, but because of the possibility of sharing.
The Thawfest Platter can serve approximately two or three people, depending on their appetite. Instead of ordering three individual meals, the family can divide the feast and set aside part of the budget for a different dessert.
Another appealing detail is the range of proteins, which makes the dish more versatile, although it is important to check if everyone likes the side dishes.
An analysis published by NerdWallet in 2026 also highlighted the Thawfest Platter as a shareable option that can help control spending at the park.
4. Mac & Cheese Cone — Hooligan's Grog & Gruel and Spit Fyre Grill
From approximately US$12
Where: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk
Creamy macaroni and cheese served inside an edible cone, with different combinations of toppings.
This is an example of food that fits perfectly with a theme park: it has a different presentation, is relatively practical and can work as a substantial snack.
The classic version has macaroni and cheese and small fish-shaped crackers. Other combinations may include more elaborate meats and ingredients.
In November 2026, Universal also highlighted seasonal versions of the cone, showing that the menu can change throughout the year.
I would choose this snack for a mid-day stop, especially if the intention is not to have a full lunch. I just wouldn't count on it as a light meal: macaroni, cheese and cone make a very substantial combination.
5. Hunter's Garlic Stake — The Burning Blade Tavern
$12.49
Where: Dark Universe • The Burning Blade Tavern
A pretzel with butter and garlic, accompanied by sauce, inspired by the familiar association between garlic and vampires.
The name plays on “stake,” the weapon from vampire stories, and “steak,” the cut of meat.
The dish is simple, but the presentation and context make all the difference. After all, we are in a dark village populated by references to classic Universal monsters.
I wouldn't cross the park solely for a pretzel. But, being in the Dark Universe, it's a fun option to share, especially if you plan to spend some time taking in the details of the setting.
6. Baguette de Dinde — Café L'air De La Sirène
$17.99
Where: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Baguette with turkey, brie cheese, apple, arugula and a touch of mustard.
This is one of the options that I consider interesting for those who prefer something less heavy than burgers and fried foods.
The combination of brie cheese, apple and turkey is a bit different from the traditional sandwich found in many American parks.
It's not necessarily the cheapest meal, but it can be a good choice for those looking for a relatively quick lunch and want to continue exploring the park without spending a lot of time at the table.
Price references for dishes in this section: menus cataloged by Theme Park IQ, NerdWallet survey and comparisons published in 2026.
The Epic Universe desserts and drinks that deserve attention
I would set aside part of the budget specifically for desserts. Not because it is necessary to try them all, but because some of the most creative options in the park are in the desserts.
And here there is a strategy that I find especially interesting: instead of buying one dessert per person at each stop, choose two or three different ones and share. This way, you can try more things without spending as much.
7. ? Block Tiramisu — Toadstool Cafe
$9.99
Where: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD • Toadstool Café
A tiramisu presented as the famous yellow block with question mark from Mario games.
This is one of the sweets that I would put at the top of the list for anyone who likes themed desserts. The presentation is immediately recognizable and has a direct connection to the Nintendo universe.
The price is close to US$10, which is not cheap for an individual dessert. But, considering the visual proposal, it may be a more interesting choice than buying an ordinary dessert.
My suggestion would be to order one to share, especially if the family also wants to try other items on the menu.
8. Butterbeer Crêpe — Café L'air De La Sirène
$19.99
Where: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic
Crepe with Butterbeer-inspired cream, strawberries, Bavarian cream and shortbread.
For those who already know the traditional butterbeer at Universal parks, this is an opportunity to try the flavor in another presentation.
The price, however, deserves attention. At approximately $20, we're talking about a dessert that costs as much as some full meals.
I would choose the Butterbeer Crêpe if the intention was to try something specific from the Harry Potter universe. I wouldn't put it as a mandatory purchase for anyone trying to save money.
Another possibility is to share the crepe and complement the experience with a coffee or other drink.
9. DK Crush Float — The Bubbly Barrel
Price to be confirmed in the app
Where: SUPER NINTENDO WORLD • Donkey Kong Country
A dessert drink with creamy banana and pineapple ice cream, pineapple soda, caramelized popcorn and toffee pieces.
This is one of the most curious combinations in the Nintendo area.
The contrast between the cold drink, the ice cream and the crunchy elements creates an experience unlike a traditional milkshake. There is also a version with a themed souvenir container, sold for a higher price.
I would consider the regular version before paying for the collectible cup. The souvenir only makes sense if you really want to take it home.
The drink was highlighted by Universal itself in its official selection of snacks published on November 5, 2026.
10. Stormfly's Catch of the Day — Mead Hall
Updated price to be confirmed
Where: How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk • Mead Hall
A fish-shaped chocolate mousse, served on a colorful rice cereal base.
This is one of those desserts that seems to have been created especially to spark children's curiosity.
The presentation references the How to Train Your Dragon universe, and the combination of mousse and cereal adds different textures.
For families with young children, this could be a fun choice. But as with other themed sweets, I would check the price on the day before deciding.
11. Frosty Moon Ice Cream — Celestial Park
$8.49 to $8.99
Where: Celestial Park • Frosty Moon
Soft ice cream served in a cup or cone, with flavors such as vanilla, strawberry, cheesecake, cookie butter, chocolate and plant-based options.
Frosty Moon is an alternative for those who want a simpler sweet, without necessarily having a full meal in a restaurant.
Prices listed in November 2026 indicated US$8.49 for a cup and US$8.99 for a cone. There were also cookie options starting at $5.29.
I would leave this stop for mid-afternoon or when the family is walking around Celestial Park.
12. The Frosted Owl — Frosty Moon
$15.99
Where: Celestial Park • Frosty Moon
Sundae with chocolate hazelnut and vanilla ice cream, marshmallow, graham crackers and topping, served in an owl themed container.
This is a good example of a product where the price includes not only the food, but also the presentation and souvenir container.
For almost US$16, I would only choose this option if there was interest in the souvenir. Otherwise, a traditional ice cream from the same establishment costs considerably less.
13. Red Velvet Death — Das Stakehaus
$6.99
Where: Dark Universe • Das Stakehaus
A red velvet dessert presented as a small coffin.
Among the themed sweets, this is one of the options that I consider interesting for the price.
The look suits the eerie atmosphere of the restaurant, but the cost is lower than several desserts found in other areas of the park.
If you like red velvet and want to discover Dark Universe, it's an alternative to try something themed without spending US$15 or US$20.
Price references: Theme Park IQ and 2026 menu surveys.
Where to have lunch at Epic Universe without spending too much
Not every meal needs to be an elaborately themed experience. On a day at the park, practicality, quantity and price also matter.
And, depending on the composition of the group, a shared dish may be cheaper than buying three individual meals.
Pizza Moon: one of the most interesting options to share
Pizza Moon is located in Celestial Park and focuses on pizzas with creative combinations, including versions with less conventional ingredients.
Among the options announced by Universal are pizzas with pepperoni, roasted peppers and honey, as well as vegetarian alternatives.
Reference price: approximately US$19 per pizza, according to a 2026 survey.
Its main advantage is that it can be shared. One pizza can be enough for two people with a moderate appetite, although this depends on the size served and the toppings.
I would consider Pizza Moon primarily for families with children who prefer familiar flavors. It can also be a strategic choice for those who don't want to waste a lot of time during lunch.
The Oak & Star Tavern: American BBQ in Celestial Park
For those who like American barbecue, The Oak & Star Tavern is an option that deserves attention.
The menu features smoked meats, such as brisket, ribs, pulled pork and other preparations, accompanied by traditional American cuisine.
The highlight for groups is the Smoked Master's BBQ Feast, which was found for approximately $75 in a 2026 survey.
According to NerdWallet's analysis, the dish allows you to choose four meats and four side dishes and can be divided between three or four people.
This means that, divided between four people, the food would cost approximately $18.75 per person, before taxes and drinks.
For those who enjoy smoked meats, I would consider this a better alternative than ordering several individual burgers.
Das Stakehaus: a different meal in Dark Universe
Das Stakehaus combines a vampire-inspired atmosphere with unconventionally presented dishes.
Among the options identified in 2026 surveys are:
| Dish | Reference price |
|---|---|
| Das Burger | $18.99 |
| Bird on a Stake — chicken | $18.99 |
| Fish on a Stake — salmon | $22.99 |
| “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich | $17.99 |
| Darkmoor Black Wings | $15.99 |
The “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich draws attention with its dark bread and blood orange sauce.
But what seems most interesting to me about this restaurant is the possibility of choosing a relatively conventional meal within a totally different setting.
It's a good alternative for those who want to experience the atmosphere of Dark Universe without necessarily spending money on a restaurant with table service.
Café L'air De La Sirène: an alternative to burgers
Café L'air De La Sirène offers French-inspired dishes including baguettes, quiches, salads and desserts.
A few prices from June 2026:
| Dish | Price |
|---|---|
| Soupe et Salade Maison | $14.99 |
| Quiche Lorraine | $16.99 |
| Baguette Ratatouille Provençale | $16.99 |
| Baguette de Dinde | $17.99 |
| Boeuf Bourguignon | $19.99 |
I think this option is particularly interesting for those who want to eat something different during the trip.
After days of burgers, pizza and fried foods, finding a quiche, stew or baguette with different ingredients can be a welcome change.
The atmosphere also matches the setting of wizarding Paris in the 1920s, making the meal part of the visit to the Harry Potter area.
Where to have dinner at Epic Universe: restaurants for a special experience
Not everyone wants to dedicate an hour or more of their day to a restaurant. But, for those who enjoy dining and want to have a more leisurely meal, there are two options that deserve to be considered.
Atlantic: a dining experience beneath the sea
Atlantic is located in Celestial Park and has a concept unlike most theme park restaurants.
Its architecture resembles a Victorian aquarium, with lighting and decorative elements that create the sensation of being in an underwater environment.
The menu includes fish, seafood, meat and more elaborate options.
One of the dishes promoted by Universal is Sea Bass, prepared with accompaniments including carrot mochi, peas and aromatic lemongrass broth.
The Atlantic also has the Aquaria Bar, which can be an alternative for those who want to experience the atmosphere without necessarily having a full meal.
How much does it cost? The price largely depends on the dish and drinks. As I was unable to confirm an updated table of individual prices directly from Universal, I prefer not to present an exact price that could mislead the reader. For planning, I would set aside a higher budget than quick-service restaurants and look at the menu before visiting.
The Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant: a culinary journey through Asia
The Blue Dragon is another option for those looking for a more elaborate meal.
The restaurant brings together influences from several Asian cuisines, with dishes such as ramen and other preparations inspired by Asian cooking.
One of the highlights is the Tonkotsu Ramen, prepared with pork broth, noodles, chashu pork, egg and mushrooms.
The setting is an important part of the experience, with colorful lighting, lanterns and decorative dragons.
I would choose Blue Dragon for anyone who likes Asian cuisine and wants a different experience from traditional American restaurants.
But there is a practical issue: there is no point in booking a long meal if the main objective of the day is to see as many attractions as possible.
Reservations: Atlantic and Blue Dragon participate in Universal's official reservation system.
You can check both on Universal Orlando's official reservation page.
Do you need a reservation for Toadstool Cafe? How does it work?
The Toadstool Cafe deserves special attention because it is one of the most popular restaurants among Nintendo fans.
The environment simulates the Mushroom Kingdom, with visual elements that reference Mario games and the characters that appear on screen.
Unlike Atlantic and Blue Dragon, Toadstool Cafe operates as a quick-service restaurant, not a traditional table-service restaurant with advance reservations.
Universal offers mobile ordering for Toadstool Cafe. Access and queue arrangements may change with operating conditions and crowd levels.
My advice is to check how it works on the official app at the beginning of your visit, especially if the restaurant is a priority.
And an important note for families: the children's menu identified at Toadstool Cafe is intended for children up to 9 years old. So don't automatically count on this option for a child 10 and older.
What to order at Toadstool Cafe?
| Dish | Reference price |
|---|---|
| Mario Burger | $19.99 |
| Luigi Burger | $18.99 |
| Fire Flower Spaghetti and Meatballs | $17.99 |
| Super Mushroom Pizza Bowl | $17.99 |
| Chef Toad Herb Chicken Special | $18.99 |
| Toadstool Cheesy Garlic Knots | $8.99 |
| Super Mushroom Soup | $7.99 |
| ? Block Tiramisu | $9.99 |
| Mt. Beanpole Cake | $9.99 |
These prices are reference figures, and availability must be confirmed on the day.
If I had to choose just two things, I would prioritize a visually distinctive main dish and the “? Block Tiramisu”.
But, for those who just want to get to know the atmosphere, a starter and a dessert may cost less than three full meals.
How much does it cost to eat at Epic Universe? Estimate your budget
This is perhaps the most important information for anyone organizing the trip.
There is no single price, because everything depends on the number of meals, the drinks chosen and, mainly, the number of items shared.
To make things easier, I prepared three simulations considering a family of two adults and a 10-year-old child. These are examples of what a family might spend, not packages sold by Universal.
