Universal Orlando stormed onto the restaurant scene with the mid-1999 opening of its dining and entertainment venue, CityWalk, which is between and in front of its two parks, Universal Studios Florida and Islands of Adventure. But Universal's sudden entry onto the food front doesn't mean quality was lost in the rush. In fact some of the best dining options around can be found here -- even inside the theme parks (and most especially at Islands of Adventure). Several of Universal's restaurants offer cuisine ranging from respectable light bites to dependable dinners (a few even border on fine dining!), with most offering unique and casual atmospheres. Do note, of course, that the better-than-average food and surroundings come with higher-than-average prices. Universal takes "Priority Seating" arrangements for its park and CityWalk restaurants, which can be made up to 30 days in advance by calling tel. 407/224-3613 for USF restaurants, 407/224-4012 for IOA restaurants, and 407/224-3663 for CityWalk (except Margaritaville and NBA City) dining spots. Actual reservations are available only for Mythos (tel. 407/224-4534) and Emeril's (tel. 407/503-2467). For more information on dining at Universal, call tel. 407/224-9255.
The best restaurants here are just outside the main gates at CityWalk, Universal's restaurant and nightclub venue. But there are more than a dozen places to eat inside the park. Here are our favorites:
Best Sit-Down Meal: Lombard's Seafood Grille serves up a hearty fried shrimp basket, as well as a selection of seafood, pasta, salads, and sandwiches ($10-$16) in slightly more upscale surroundings. It's located across from Earthquake -- The Big One.
Best Counter Service: Universal Studio's Classic Monster Cafe serves salads, pizza, pasta, and rotisserie chicken ($7-$9) with a side of classic and creepy creatures. It's off 7th Avenue, near Shrek 4-D.
Best Place for Hungry Families: Similar to a mall food court, the International Food and Film Festival offers a variety of foods in a single location. With options ranging from stir-fry to chicken Parmesan, families can easily please each of their palates (even the pickier ones), all under one roof. There are kids' meals for less than $6 at most locations. The food is far from gourmet but a cut above regular fast food ($7-$10). It's located near the back of Animal Actors on Location!
Best Snack: Milkshakes ($4-$5) and ice-cream sundaes ($5-$6) at Schwab's Pharmacy make perfect pick-me-ups. It's located across the street for Terminator 2: 3-D Battle Across Time.
Another Blockbuster -- The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. (www.bubbagump.com or www.universalorlando.com) is the latest addition to Universal's CityWalk restaurant lineup. It takes the place of Decades Cafe near the CityWalk entrance (across from the Cineplex). This casual family-friendly eatery, based on the blockbuster film Forrest Gump, features a diverse menu likely to please almost every palate -- don't let the name fool you, it's not just for seafood lovers. Entrees run the gamut from the eponymous shrimp to southern fried chicken to T-bone steaks. There's also a wide array of salads and sandwiches Spilling over with movie memorabilia, it's a perfect addition to a trip to Universal Studios Florida, a park where the movies come to life. Prices average about $10 for sandwiches; main courses run from $12 to $19.
