We have visited Universal Orlando over 10 times in the last 3 years and have tried many of the places to eat. After much discussion we have narrowed it down to top of the best restaurants at Universal Orlando to visit with kids.
There are so many options and places to eat at Universal Orlando. Between the two parks, Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure, and Universal’s CityWalk the options are really endless. With so many different choices it can be overwhelming to decide what is a good choice for your family.
All of the restaurants on this list we have tried as a family. I also included a few places we haven’t tried, but are on our list to try on our next visit. My husband does most of the food research and I have added his favorite at each restaurant.
Top 10 Best Restaurants at Universal Orlando with Kids
10. Comic Strip Cafe (Islands of Adventure)
Comic Strip Cafe is counter service restaurant at Universal that offers a bit more variety. They offer burgers & hot dogs, pizza & pasta, Chinese food, and fish and chicken. It is probably the most varied dining location in the parks and should provide options for everyone in your group.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Dragon Platter
9. Universal Studios Classic Monster Cafe
This is another quick service option that serves BBQ options. It is not the best BBQ I have ever had but it provides a variety. I liked that the kids could choose sides as an entree. Monster Cafe is on the pricier side for a quick service type meal but is a good choice for sharing.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Perilous Pair Platter with Brussel Sprouts and Mac/Cheese
8. Circus McGurkus Cafe Stoo-pendus (Islands of Adventure)
What I really love about this place is the fun theme. You are eating under the big top with colorful Seuss characters all around. Circus McGurkus has a variety of options that include spaghetti, burgers, and pizza. You can also order a full size pizza for your family.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Fried Chicken
7. Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck (Universal Studios)
This may be more for me but Bumblebee Man’s Korean Beef Tacos are one of my favorites when we visit Universal Studios. I get them almost every visit. It is a simple food truck with 3 different taco options, all under $10.00. There isn’t a kids menu but a great option if you have kids that enjoy tacos.
Five for the Road Mom Recommends: Korean Beef Tacos
6. Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen (Universal’s CityWalk)
Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is more about the ambiance and setting although they do have some of our favorite food options at Universal. I loved the warm chocolate bread and the milkshakes are delicious. This is a sit down restaurant at Universal and is interactive with two characters that walk around the restaurant.
While there is no guarantee you will meet them, we have always had good luck when visiting and typically they stop at your table. You can also stop in to Toothsome to purchase a treat from the sweets shop or a milkshake to go.
We have visited Toothsome on two different visits. You can read more about our visit and what to expect on our post: Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen Review for Families.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Chocolate Almond Bread & the Reuben
5. The Leaky Cauldron (Universal Studios)
The Leaky Cauldron keeps with the Harry Potter theme and serves traditional British foods. They do offer Mac & Cheese for the kids and there Fish & Chips are outstanding, for kids and adults. We have also ordered the Bangers and Mash plain. This is basically a hot dog with potato wedges. If you have young children that can split the dish, you will save a bit of money. Unfortunately, there is not a kids priced option available.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Beef Stew
4. Three Broomsticks (Islands of Adventure)
Three Broomsticks is similar to Leaky Cauldron but it has a few different menu options. I suggest trying both, especially if you have a Harry Potter fan in your family. At Three Broomsticks you can order the great platter that serves four and includes a garden salad, rotisserie smoked chicken & spareribs, corn on the cob, and roast potatoes. They also offer Chicken Fingers, Chicken Legs, Mac & Cheese, and Fish & Chips on the kids menu.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Fish & Chips
3. Pat O’Brien’s (Universal’s CityWalk)
Pat O’Brien’s has a Mardi Gras theme and in the evenings caters to an adult crowd, but if you visit around dinner time it is a great choice for families. The Kid’s menu offers Mac & Cheese, Chicken Fingers, Shrimp, Burgers, and Grilled Chicken making this a great option to satisfy everyone in your family.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Creole Chicken w/ Red Beans and Rice
2. Fast Food Boulevard (Universal Studios)
Fast Food Boulevard is located in the Springfield USA(Simpsons) area of Universal Studios. It is a food court area that consists of multiple places that offer pizza, chicken, and healthy food options.
- Krusty Burger (My kids like the foot long hot dog.)
- Cletus’ Chicken Shack (The Chicken and Waffle sandwich is a favorite.)
- Luigi’s Pizza
- The Frying Dutchman
- Lisa’s Teahouse of Horror (Healthier Options)
- Moe’s Tavern (If you are a Simpsons fan or a beer fan, you can order a Duff Beer)
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Clam Chowdarr
1. Antojitos | Authentic Mexican Food (Universal’s CityWalk)
This was probably my favorite sit down restaurant at Universal Orlando. We love Mexican food and I thought the quality was great! Chips and Salsa are included with your meal and the fresh salsa was delicious. Kids options are quesadillas, grilled chicken, or tacos.
Five for the Road Dad Recommends: Trio
Places to Eat at Universal Orlando (That We Haven’t Tried Yet!)
- Finnegan’s Bar & Grill
- Hard Rock Cafe Orlando
- Hot Dog Hall of Fame
- Bob Marley’s- A Tribute to Freedom
- KidZone Pizza Company
Quick Places to Eat at Universal Orlando
Sometimes after a busy day at the parks parents want something quick and familiar. At Universal’s CityWalk they have a Burger King, Panda Express, and Moe’s in a food court setting. This is typical to what you would expect but it can be an easy option for families that I wanted to mention.
We really love all the options for places to eat at Universal Orlando. They cater to families and offer a variety for everyone.
More Universal Orlando Planning Tips
- How to Plan Your Best Universal Orlando Vacation
- Universal Orlando Parks and Resorts
- The Best Places to Take Pictures at Universal Orlando