Universal Studios Orlando offers a fun and exciting escape from reality within its theme park walls. In addition to the more than a dozen rides and attractions, the park is home to unforgettable live performances, character meet-and-greets plus some of the best counter service dining options in Central Florida.
Leaky Cauldron (Diagon Alley)
Step into the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and enter Diagon Alley. On your left, you’ll find the Leaky Cauldron, a Counter/Quick Service restaurant serving a mix of American and British fare. Stop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner and be sure to order a Butterbeer—order it cold or hot. Go for the traditional bangers and mash or Toad in the Hole with Yorkshire pudding. The kids may enjoy the fish and chips as well as the sticky toffee pudding for dessert.
Mel’s Drive-In (Hollywood)
Located in the Universal Studios land known as “Hollywood” across from the Horror Make-up Show, this counter service restaurant is a step back in time. Mel’s Drive-In design comes from the classic movie American Graffiti. Adults and kids alike will love the nostalgic restaurant, complete with classic automobiles parked out front—perfect for a photo op. The menu is classic diner food and includes everything from burgers and fries to grilled sandwiches, onion rings and sweet treats like ice-cream floats.
Fast Food Boulevard (World Expo/Springfield area)
Located across from The Simpsons Ride, the Fast Food Boulevard offers a variety of tasty counter service options from some very familiar Simpsons’ characters. Choices include Krusty Burger, Flaming Moe’s, Luigi’s Pizza, Cletus’ Chicken Shack, the Frying Dutchman and Lisa’s Teahouse of Horror. There’s truly something for everyone along Fast Food Boulevard including savory burgers, wraps, salads, chicken, pulled pork, pizza and delicious seafood. Don’t forget to stop at the Lard Lad for a giant donut when you’re ready for dessert.
Louie’s Italian Restaurant (New York)
Step out of the Florida sun and into the air-conditioned comfort of Louie’s Italian Restaurant, located between Beetlejuice and Revenge of the Mummy. The large restaurant serves up traditional Italian specialties like spaghetti with meatballs, pizza and a creamy fettuccine Alfredo as well as succulent turkey legs and sweet gelato for dessert. The kids’ menu even has peanut butter and jelly if you’re dining with a picky eater.
Other must-try counter service restaurants in Universal Studies include the Beverly Hills Boulangerie, Café La Bamba and Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour.