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Theme Park Food

Universal’s City Walk NBC Grill & Brew Restaurant Review

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Pulled Pork Sandwich And Fries

This particular restaurant isn’t located in any park, but it still does fit the requirement for our team at Big Theme Parks to do a review. The NBC Grill & Brew is located in Universal’s City Walk and is located just out of the Gates of Universal Studios Florida.

We hit the restaurant just before noon, right before the lunch rush came in. The wasn’t a wait to be seated for us, but I have passed by and seen a line going into the grill from time to time. So the time of day you go will greatly impact your experience.

The Staff was very interactive and smiling. They made you feel comfortable the moment you entered the restaurant and gave clear instructions on where we needed to be to get seated.

Once we got to the right side of the restaurant, we were seated quickly. The tables were clean, and we had clear view of the kitchen and the cooks which is located in the center of the Restaurant. I found that to be some what comforting since we are in a world where people are doing some crazy stuff to get media attention.

The waiter arrived shortly after and was very nice. He was also filled with many recommendation and knew his menu like a tee. I love when they are like that because they will give you real recommendations that you can really think about when it comes from someone who really knows their menu. This is helpful when you visit a place for the first time and have no idea what to get.

We received our drinks in a timely manner and we ordered. My Wife and I both got the Smoked BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwich. I got the bear battered fries and she got the tater tots.

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The meal arrived a 15 – 20 minutes later. Give or take a few minutes.

As you are seeing above the meal arrived on a unique platter and was uniquely laid out. I chose to have the coleslaw on the sandwich as opposed to being on the side.

The sandwich was good. The pork tasted fine. I was not overly liking the BBQ sauce. I tend to lean toward sweet and spicy sauces, this was more a mystique, possibly honey, I was unsure.

When it comes to a sandwich like this the pork and the sauce combination takes it from good to great. Unfortunately , I should of asked for options on the BBQ sauce side, but I did not. I went with what was given to us.

The sandwich was still decent, not bad. It was a better than average pulled pork sandwich. I still enjoyed it. And it was way better than the quick serve places we have been eating at over the past few days at Disney.

The Fries on the other hand were amazing. They were beer battered and had a fantastic taste and was right up there with some other great fries I have had in the past. The fries alone won me over.

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Our Official Score For This Food Review Is;

Our Big Theme Parks Food Score 7.8

Again, the sauce killed me on the sandwich. I know, or at least hoped that if I would of opened my mouth I would of gotten my hands on some other types of BBQ sauce. But I stuck with the guns and went with what they provided.

In all it was still a good sandwich. The portion size was fine, but again the FRIES, these bad boys made the meal and made me a happy person. I’d go again to just get the fries alone.

Not much to hate here, so I won’t add a what I didn’t like section here. Great meal to break up the day on a great day at Universal Studios.

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Theme Park Food

A Culinary Adventure at Universal CityWalk Restaurants

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City walk restaurant signs, burger king, fossil, panda express

Universal CityWalk is the bustling hub of entertainment, shopping, and dining located adjacent to Universal Studios theme parks. It’s where guests from around the world converge to experience a diverse array of flavors, cuisines, and dining experiences. From quick bites to elegant dining, Universal CityWalk’s restaurants cater to every taste and budget. Let’s explore what awaits you on this culinary adventure.

Universal CityWalk – A Dining Destination

Universal CityWalk serves as a gateway to Universal’s theme parks, but it’s a destination unto itself. With a mix of global cuisine, familiar favorites, and unique culinary creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

An Overview of Universal CityWalk

Universal CityWalk offers an immersive experience filled with entertainment options such as cinemas, nightclubs, shopping, and, of course, restaurants. The blend of fine dining and casual eateries draws visitors who want to explore flavors from around the world.

The Ambiance and Theme

CityWalk’s vibrant atmosphere, dynamic architecture, and inviting ambiance create a perfect setting for dining. Each restaurant is uniquely themed, providing guests with not just a meal but an experience.

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Fine Dining at Universal CityWalk

If you’re looking to indulge in a gourmet meal, Universal CityWalk does not disappoint. Some of the standout fine dining restaurants include:

The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen

A steampunk-inspired restaurant that serves an array of delectable dishes and a staggering selection of gourmet chocolates. Don’t miss their extravagant milkshakes!

Overview
Located in the heart of Universal CityWalk, The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is a full-service restaurant with a steampunk-inspired ambiance that’s visually stunning. More than just a restaurant, it’s a culinary experience with chocolate as the star of the show.

Ambiance
Entering The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium is like stepping into a fantastical factory with a 19th-century steampunk vibe. The interior is adorned with brass, dark wood, and mechanical gears, all under the watchful eye of Professor Doctor Penelope, a character who often greets guests.

Menu
The menu is as imaginative as the décor. While renowned for its chocolate creations, the restaurant offers a wide variety of entrées like truffle pasta, steaks, and seafood. The dessert menu is where chocolate takes center stage, with a staggering selection of sundaes, cakes, and specialty confections.

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Extravagant Milkshakes
Perhaps the most iconic offerings are their over-the-top milkshakes. These towering creations are a feast for the eyes as well as the taste buds. From the “Chocolate X5” loaded with various chocolate elements to the “Key Lime Pie” milkshake topped with a full slice of pie, these milkshakes are a must-try.

The Chocolate Boutique
Adjacent to the restaurant is a boutique where guests can purchase artisanal chocolates and sweet souvenirs. From chocolate-dipped strawberries to themed candies, it’s a chocoholic’s paradise.

Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando

A culinary creation of the famous chef Emeril Lagasse, this restaurant offers Creole-based gourmet dishes that combine traditional cooking with a modern twist.

Overview
Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando, the creation of celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse, is a high-end dining experience located at Universal CityWalk. It reflects the vibrant culinary heritage of New Orleans, fusing traditional Creole cooking with contemporary influences.

Ambiance
Elegant and sophisticated, Emeril’s offers an upscale dining environment. The interior features warm colors, rich wood finishes, and an open kitchen that allows guests to watch the culinary team in action. The atmosphere is further enhanced by the soft jazz music that resonates through the restaurant.

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Creole-based Gourmet Dishes
The menu showcases the rich flavors of Creole cuisine, with dishes like Andouille-crusted redfish, crawfish étouffée, and signature BBQ shrimp. The culinary team creatively blends traditional Creole cooking techniques with modern touches, resulting in a gastronomic experience that pays homage to Louisiana’s culinary traditions.

Wine and Cocktails
Emeril’s boasts an extensive wine list with over 12,000 bottles, meticulously selected to complement the flavors of the menu. The skilled bartenders also craft innovative cocktails, often utilizing fresh, local ingredients.

Chef’s Tasting Menu
For those looking to immerse themselves fully in the culinary artistry of Emeril Lagasse, the Chef’s Tasting Menu is a multi-course journey that showcases the best of the restaurant. Paired with fine wines, this dining experience is a celebration of Creole flavors.

Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food

For those craving Mexican cuisine, Antojitos offers a selection of authentic Mexican food in a festive and lively atmosphere.

Overview
Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food is a vibrant culinary gem nestled in Universal CityWalk. Offering traditional Mexican cuisine in a festive atmosphere, it promises an experience that is both delicious and culturally rich. Whether you’re a lover of Mexican food or looking to try something new, Antojitos has something to offer.

Ambiance
The restaurant’s ambiance captures the colorful and lively spirit of Mexican street markets. With eye-catching murals, rustic furnishings, and colorful papel picado decorations, Antojitos creates an energetic environment where guests can truly feel immersed in Mexican culture. Live Mariachi bands often grace the venue, adding to the festive atmosphere.

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Authentic Mexican Menu
Antojitos prides itself on its authentic Mexican fare. The chefs at the restaurant meticulously prepare traditional dishes that highlight the rich and diverse culinary traditions of Mexico. From classics like tacos, enchiladas, and fajitas to more regionally specific dishes like mole poblano, the menu offers a wide array of options.

Tableside Guacamole
One of the highlights of dining at Antojitos is the tableside guacamole service. Freshly made to order, guests can customize their guacamole with various ingredients, including onions, tomatoes, jalapenos, and cilantro. Watching the staff expertly prepare this beloved appetizer adds a unique touch to the meal.

Tequila and Cocktails
No Mexican meal would be complete without a fine selection of tequila and cocktails. Antojitos boasts an impressive tequila bar, offering various premium selections. Whether you prefer a classic margarita or a tequila tasting flight, the skilled bartenders ensure a delightful experience.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options
In addition to catering to meat-lovers, Antojitos offers an array of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. From vegetable-filled tacos to salads and bean-based entrées, there are options for everyone.

Live Entertainment and Outdoor Seating
The restaurant often hosts live entertainment, ranging from traditional Mexican dancers to lively Mariachi bands. The outdoor seating area is a wonderful place to enjoy the music and take in the lively CityWalk atmosphere.

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Casual Dining at Universal CityWalk

For a more relaxed and informal meal, there are plenty of casual dining options to choose from:

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

A laid-back tropical oasis offering Caribbean-inspired dishes, margaritas, and live music. It’s a little slice of paradise within CityWalk.

Overview
A tropical paradise within Universal CityWalk, Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers an escape to the islands with its Caribbean-inspired dishes, signature margaritas, and live island music. Named after the famous musician, this restaurant embodies the laid-back beach life.

Ambiance
Walking into Margaritaville, guests are greeted with a tropical ambiance reminiscent of a beachside escape. With surfboards, palm trees, and a seaplane hanging from the ceiling, the décor transports guests to a world of island relaxation. An outdoor patio overlooks CityWalk, allowing diners to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Menu
The menu celebrates coastal flavors with dishes like coconut shrimp, volcano nachos, and fresh fish tacos. The highlight, however, is the extensive margarita menu, featuring various tropical blends. Whether it’s a classic or a more exotic flavor, Margaritaville’s margaritas are the ultimate beachside indulgence.

Live Music and Entertainment
True to its island theme, Margaritaville regularly hosts live bands playing Caribbean and beach tunes. The energetic music, paired with tropical cocktails, creates a festive and joyful atmosphere that resonates with both Parrotheads and beach lovers.

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Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Caribbean-inspired Dishes$15-$30
Margaritas

Vivo Italian Kitchen

A contemporary restaurant where classic Italian dishes are prepared in an open kitchen. The fresh pasta and traditional flavors are sure to please.

Overview
Vivo Italian Kitchen offers a contemporary dining experience with traditional Italian flavors. Located in Universal CityWalk, this elegant yet inviting restaurant showcases the art of Italian cooking through its open kitchen and freshly prepared dishes.

Ambiance
The restaurant’s design is sleek and modern, with a touch of Italian charm. Open kitchen stations allow guests to watch chefs handcraft pasta and toss pizzas. Warm lighting and comfortable seating create an atmosphere that’s perfect for both family dining and romantic evenings.

Menu
The menu at Vivo celebrates classic Italian cuisine. From homemade pastas like lasagna and fettuccine alfredo to wood-fired pizzas and succulent seafood, every dish is prepared with fresh, quality ingredients. An extensive wine list, featuring Italian and international selections, complements the dining experience.

Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Classic Italian Dishes (Pasta, Risotto)$15-$30
Fresh Pasta

The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

A unique fusion of burgers and sushi, this quirky and fun restaurant caters to both sushi lovers and burger aficionados.

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Overview
The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar is a culinary adventure that brings together the seemingly contrasting worlds of sushi and burgers. Situated in Universal CityWalk, this quirky restaurant offers an experience that’s as unique as its menu.

Ambiance
With a playful and lively décor, The Cowfish creates a fun atmosphere that reflects its innovative concept. Pop art, vibrant colors, and an eclectic mix of furnishings make the dining experience anything but ordinary.

Menu
The menu is where The Cowfish truly shines. Guests can choose between gourmet burgers, fresh sushi, or “Burgushi” – a fusion of the two. The creativity extends to the drinks and dessert menus, with offerings like spiked milkshakes and sushi-inspired sweets.

Burgushi
The signature “Burgushi” dishes are a highlight, blending elements of sushi with traditional burger ingredients. From rolls with burger components to sushi-styled burgers, these culinary inventions are a must-try for the adventurous eater.

Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Burgers$15-$25
Sushi
Fusion Dishes (Burgushi)

Quick Bites and Snacks

When you’re on the go and need a quick bite, CityWalk has a range of options:

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Red Oven Pizza Bakery

Serving artisanal pizzas baked in a stone oven, Red Oven is perfect for a quick yet delicious meal.

Overview
If the aroma of freshly baked pizza wafting through the air catches your attention at Universal CityWalk, it’s likely coming from Red Oven Pizza Bakery. Specializing in artisanal pizzas baked to perfection in a stone oven, Red Oven delivers an authentic pizza experience with a modern twist.

Ambiance
With a casual and inviting atmosphere, Red Oven is designed for those looking to grab a quick yet delicious meal. The open kitchen showcases the impressive stone oven, allowing guests to witness the crafting and baking of their pizzas.

Menu
The menu features a selection of classic and inventive pizzas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. From Margherita and pepperoni to seasonal specialties, each pizza offers a perfect balance of flavors. Gluten-free and vegetarian options are also available, making it a versatile choice for different dietary preferences.

Red Oven Pizza Bakery is a haven for pizza enthusiasts and those in search of a quick, satisfying meal. The blend of traditional techniques and modern flavors creates a unique pizza experience that stands out within Universal CityWalk.

Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Margherita Pizza$10-$20
Pepperoni Pizza
Seasonal Specialties
Gluten-free and Vegetarian Options

Hot Dog Hall of Fame

For classic American fare, enjoy a selection of iconic hot dogs from famous ballparks across the country.

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Overview
For fans of classic American fare, Hot Dog Hall of Fame is a nostalgic trip to the iconic ballparks of the country. Located at Universal CityWalk, this sports-themed eatery offers a selection of hot dogs representing famous stadiums across the nation.

Ambiance
The décor of Hot Dog Hall of Fame captures the spirit of a traditional ballpark, complete with stadium-style seating and memorabilia. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or just craving a quality hot dog, the venue creates an engaging atmosphere for all.

Menu
Each hot dog on the menu is styled after a famous American ballpark. From the Chicago Dog with its sport peppers and neon relish to the Boston Brat with sauerkraut and grain mustard, there’s a unique flavor to represent various cities. Sides like fries and nachos complete the classic ballpark meal.

Hot Dog Hall of Fame offers more than just a meal; it’s a tribute to America’s beloved pastime. The unique concept and authentic flavors create a memorable experience that resonates with both sports fans and casual diners within Universal CityWalk.

Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Chicago Dog$8-$15
Boston Brat
Fries and Nachos

Voodoo Doughnut

A whimsical bakery offering imaginative and delectable doughnuts in a variety of intriguing flavors.

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Overview
Voodoo Doughnut is where imagination meets taste. This whimsical bakery at Universal CityWalk offers an array of imaginative and delectable doughnuts that intrigue and delight with their creativity.

Ambiance
Entering Voodoo Doughnut is a step into a world of colorful and quirky design. The playful décor, with its pink hues and offbeat art, sets the tone for the culinary adventure that awaits.

Menu
The doughnuts at Voodoo are not your average fare. From the famous Voodoo Doll doughnut filled with raspberry jelly to the Maple Bacon Bar topped with real bacon, the menu is a wonderland of intriguing flavors and combinations. Vegan options are also available, catering to various dietary preferences.

Voodoo Doughnut is more than a bakery; it’s a celebration of creativity and flavor. The eclectic menu and charming atmosphere make it a unique and delightful destination within Universal CityWalk, perfect for a sweet treat or a memorable dessert experience.

These three establishments – Red Oven Pizza Bakery, Hot Dog Hall of Fame, and Voodoo Doughnut – each add a unique culinary identity to Universal CityWalk. From artisanal pizzas and iconic hot dogs to whimsical doughnuts, they cater to a wide variety of tastes and cravings, ensuring a satisfying and extraordinary gastronomic experience.

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Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Voodoo Doll Doughnut$5-$10
Maple Bacon Bar
Vegan Options

Themed Bars and Nightlife

The culinary adventure doesn’t end with food. Universal CityWalk also offers themed bars and nightlife:

Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom

A tribute to the legendary musician, this bar offers Caribbean cuisine and live reggae music.

Overview
Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom is more than just a bar and restaurant; it’s a celebration of the life and legacy of the legendary musician. Offering authentic Caribbean cuisine and pulsating live reggae music, this venue at Universal CityWalk brings a touch of Jamaica to its guests.

Ambiance
Designed as a replica of Bob Marley’s home in Kingston, Jamaica, the atmosphere is filled with memorabilia, photographs, and videos that pay homage to Marley’s life and work. The indoor space exudes warmth and history, while the open-air courtyard allows guests to dine under the stars.

Menu
The menu offers a tantalizing taste of the Caribbean with dishes like jerk chicken, oxtail stew, and coconut curry shrimp. Vegetarian options are also available, and each meal can be paired with traditional Caribbean cocktails or a glass of Marley Coffee.

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Live Music
The heart and soul of this tribute venue lie in its live reggae performances. Local and international artists take the stage to keep Marley’s spirit alive, offering a truly immersive experience into the world of reggae music.

Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom is not just a dining destination; it’s a cultural experience that invites guests to explore Caribbean flavors and the inspiring world of Bob Marley. A must-visit for fans and those looking for a unique dining and entertainment experience within Universal CityWalk.

Menu SelectionAverage Budget Per Person
Jerk Chicken$15-$30
Oxtail Stew
Coconut Curry Shrimp
Traditional Caribbean Cocktails
Marley Coffee

Pat O’Brien’s

An Irish pub experience in the heart of CityWalk, famous for its Hurricane cocktails and lively piano bar.

Overview
Bringing the charm and revelry of an Irish pub to Universal CityWalk, Pat O’Brien’s is famous for its Hurricane cocktails, lively piano bar, and genuine Irish hospitality.

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Ambiance
With its dark wood interiors, classic Irish décor, and the warmth of a traditional pub, Pat O’Brien’s welcomes guests to an experience that feels both familiar and festive. The iconic dueling piano bar adds an energetic vibe that resonates throughout the venue.

Menu
While the menu offers classic American pub fare like burgers and wings, it’s the drinks that truly stand out. The world-famous Hurricane cocktail is a must-try, served in a signature glass and crafted to perfection. A variety of beers, Irish whiskeys, and other classic cocktails are also available.

Entertainment
The piano bar is the centerpiece of entertainment at Pat O’Brien’s. Dueling pianists take requests, play popular hits, and engage the audience in sing-alongs, creating a lively and interactive atmosphere that’s perfect for friends and celebrations.

Pat O’Brien’s offers the unique blend of a traditional Irish pub with the energy and excitement of a modern entertainment hub. Whether you’re drawn in by the famous Hurricane cocktails or the joyful piano bar, it’s a place where good times and lasting memories are made within Universal CityWalk.

“Bob Marley–A Tribute to Freedom” and “Pat O’Brien’s” add unique flavors to the Universal CityWalk experience. Whether it’s the cultural immersion into the world of Bob Marley and Caribbean cuisine or the Irish pub atmosphere complete with lively entertainment, both venues offer something truly special. They stand as vibrant examples of how Universal CityWalk caters to diverse tastes and interests, creating unforgettable experiences for every guest.

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Other restuarants Include the following:

  • Bigfire
  • NBC Sports & Grill
  • Hard Rock Cafe
  • Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
  • Breadbox
  • Fat Tuesday
  • Bice Ristorante
  • Emerils
  • Moe’s Southwest Grill
  • Burger King
  • The Kitchen
  • Lombard’s Seafood Grill
  • Finnegan’s Bar and Grill

If we are missing any, feel free to let us know. This list was updated recently.

Dining for Special Diets

Universal CityWalk understands that guests may have specific dietary needs and preferences. Many restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other special dietary options.

Conclusion

Universal CityWalk offers a gastronomic journey that’s as diverse and dynamic as its entertainment offerings. Whether you seek fine dining, casual eateries, or quick bites, the wide range of restaurants ensures that every meal becomes an experience to remember.

FAQs

1. Do I need a theme park ticket to dine at Universal CityWalk?
No, Universal CityWalk is accessible without a theme park ticket, and it’s a popular dining destination even for those not visiting the parks.

2. Are reservations required for dining at Universal CityWalk restaurants?
While reservations are not required, they are recommended for fine dining establishments, especially during peak times.

3. Is there a dress code for the restaurants at Universal CityWalk?
Casual attire is acceptable at most restaurants, but some fine dining establishments may have specific dress code requirements.

4. Are there options for children at Universal CityWalk restaurants?
Yes, many restaurants at CityWalk offer kid-friendly menus and family-friendly environments.

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5. What are the hours of operation for restaurants at Universal CityWalk?
Restaurant hours may vary, and it’s advisable to check the official Universal CityWalk website for specific hours of operation for each establishment.

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Theme Park Food

Universal Studios theme park food review for Three Broomsticks in the Island of Adventure Park

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Universal Studios is one of those parks that allows you to embrace a wonderful story and experience those environments that you saw in the movies. One theme they are famous for is what they have been doing for the Harry Potter franchise. So needless to say I was excited to enter Hogsmeade and found the Three Broomsticks. This is my first impression and review of the food at Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade which is located in Universal Studios Island of Adventure park.

The Three Broomsticks Atmosphere…

The place is fabulously themed. It fits right into the Harry Potter theme and for those Harry Potter nerds, this is the place where Harry had his first taste of the famous sweet drink Butterbeer. The theming is amazing you will feel like you are right in the movie.

The place features amazing details such as weather wood beams, balconies that contain a lot of curious objects, and then the thing that makes the whole place pop is the cast-iron chandeliers. It’s a fantastic setting that is certainly a must experience while you eat your fantastic meal.

The Three Broomsticks Menu

I was a little surprised to see that they do offer a breakfast menu that is served until 10:30 am daily. We did not arrive in time for this as we entered the restaurant toward 5 pm that evening. But they seem to have an amazing menu for breakfast featuring items like Pancake Breakfast, Porridge Breakfast, English Breakfast, and American Breakfast.

They have an adult and child version of the breakfast with prices between $17.99 and $12.99.

Our review of the food at the Three Broomsticks.

They had many options. At first, I didn’t think I would have a very good meal. After all let’s be real sometimes theme park food is a hit or miss sometimes, but I was secretly praying that this would be the one meal that won me over in the park.

They had several options including fish, chicken, ribs, pie platters, shepherds pie, and more. I chose the ribs platter. I was so happy I did. And of course, I could not order a meal without the sweet delicious drink they call Butterbeer.

I got two ribs, potatoes, and corn on the cob. I was blown away. The potatoes were fabulous. They were well cooked, soft, and had a nice seasoning to them that did not require any ketchup to eat. It was fantastic.

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I buttered the corn and that too was fabulous. It was delicious. The ribs were also fantastic. The seasoning provided a nice delicious taste although I could have used more barbeque. I was fine with it, I gobbled them all up just like any wizard would do.

Our official theme park food score

Our Score: 9.2

The food was fantastic for me. It not only was delicious, but it hit the spot and was exactly what I was crazing on my crazy vacation. It is always a blessing when you are satisfied and were able to enjoy a delicious meal at a theme park. This was it, I would highly recommend going here if you are ever in the park and are looking for an idea for dinner.

What I liked about the meal.

The seasoning on the food was fantastic. It provided the flavor I was craving and wasn’t too spicy. The ribs I had a little bit of a kick, but it wasn’t something that anyone would complain about it was perfect. The amount of food was pleasing as well. You will certainly be stuffed when you finish up this great dish. I don’t know about the other items on the menu, but the ribs platter was a win for me.

What I did not like about the meal.

There wasn’t much that I did not like about the meal. This was one of the rare times I was completely HAPPY with everything I got. It was fantastic. The only thing I would suggest is to ask for more bbq sauce while ordering so that you can dip the ribs into it. I did not do so but could have used a little more.

My Overall Experience At Three Broomsticks.

Overall I loved everything about it from the experience to the food. I did not have to make any reservations, I just walked in and got in line. The line wasn’t very long, we were ordered within 10 minutes of walking into the restaurant. We ordered and then went to the service line where they prepare and give you a tray with your food.

We had no issue finding a table to sit down on and eat. The only warning I would give is the chairs are super low to the ground so if you are tall, be prepared, that’s a long way to sit down, I nearly fell over trying to sit. That incident had people laughing so it was fine with me lol.

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6 Tips To Help You Save Money In Theme Parks

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Crowd at disney hollywood featuring a person with a lot of balloons

Theme parks are great for a day of entertainment and fun, but they can really be expensive! The average ticket costs $115, and that’s just the base cost. Add on food, souvenirs, and parking, and your day can cost hundreds of dollars. If you’re planning a trip to one in the near future, here are six great ways to save money so that you can have more fun without breaking the bank. Our goal with this article is to provide you with some tips to help you save money in theme parks.

1.) Take Public Transportation Instead of Paying For Parking

bus bench seats
Photo by Jakob Scholz on Pexels.com

You might not find this cheaper if you’re going to a huge theme park, but taking public transportation instead of paying for parking is a great way to save money when you’re visiting a smaller one.

At the time of writing this article, Disney standard parking is $25 and Universal Studios is $26, which I find to be insane. It is kind of irritating that you spend all that money on a theme park ticket and then eat, plus souvenirs, then pay a parking fee when you already purchased the theme park ticket. I understand there are costs, but it’s a parking lot, anything over $10 is insane in my opinion.

If you’re staying in a hotel, you might also be able to park your car there for free (and then maybe even get around on their shuttle).

Another option if you are close enough to the Parks is taking an Uber or a Lyft. Paying $15 instead of 26 will at least allow you to save a few bucks.

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2.) Bring Own Drinks Into The Theme Parks

man wearing black shirt drinking water
Photo by Maurício Mascaro on Pexels.com

One way to save money in theme parks is by bringing your own drinks. Most parks do allow you to bring in bottled water. If you are in Florida, bringing something that is insulated will help your drinks stay cooler longer throughout the day. You could refill those at fountains. You could ask food kiosks for ice as well to help cool down the drinks on a warm summer day.

In addition, if you’re traveling with children, you can also ask for free cups of water at restaurants and fast-food chains. In the Florida parks I have found that both Disney and Universal do offer small cups of water because they certainly do not want you becoming dehydrated while in their parks, no one wants to see that.

Theme park policies do change so it is best to go to the theme parks website to view what they allow you to bring into the park. This will allow you to plan accordingly on what you will bring and help you plan to save money at the theme parks.

3.) Bring Your Own Snacks Into The Theme Parks

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If you’re on a tight budget and are planning to visit theme parks like Disney, Legoland, or Universal Studios, you should consider bringing your own snacks instead of spending money at the park. There is usually plenty of availability to bring outside food into the park. You can bring in items that are sealed up in order to avoid any messes and keep the items fresh.

Items like small bags of chips, popcorn, granola bars, and other items that won’t melt due to the heat are great snack items to bring. Most parks do allow a small number of snacks to be brought into the park, so take advantage of that as much as you can.

4.) Pack Your Own Lunch To Help Save Money In Theme Parks

You can save a lot of money when you bring your own lunch to the theme park. Stick with things that don’t need to be heated up or refrigerated, and try to pack them in reusable containers. This will reduce the cost not just for yourself but for everyone who will have to throw that food away.

If you can at least cut out paying high theme park food prices for lunch you can save a lot of money especially if you have a large family.

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Some parks have picnic areas outside the park gates like Cedar Point. If they do you can bring a cooler with your food, drinks, and snacks. This makes it really easy to feed the entire family a lot cheaper than you would inside the theme park.

Here is a good forum where people are discussing lunch options to bring to Disney Here.

5.) Go Back to the Hotel To Eat Lunch Or Dinner

Marriot Of Seaworld Hotel Kitchen
Kitchen In Marriot Of Seaworld Hotel In Orlando, Florida.

There are a lot of overpriced food options in most theme parks, so it’s no wonder that the typical budget for a vacation can quickly get blown. So instead of buying pricey food all day, you can take a break from your day at the theme park and go back to your hotel to eat lunch or dinner.

We do this a lot when we go to Disney or Universal. That Florida heat really puts a lot of stress on you too, so we find breaking up the day to go back to the hotel to eat is saving us a lot of money and also allowing us to recover a bit before we head back to the parks.

We usually get a hotel off-site with a full kitchen. We then grocery shop and get food that we can make at the hotel. This cut our theme park costs down a lot.

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We love to do this between 1 – 4 pm since that is when the sun is really nasty and even take in some pool time to cool down. When we get back to the park we are usually refreshed. Best advice USE THE HOTEL POOL…

David Chilling in a Hotel Pool In Orlando

6.) Share Your Meals With Family Members To Save Money In Theme Parks

Pulled Pork Sandwich And Fries
Pulled Pork Sandwich with Fries at Citywalk NBC Sports Grill & Brew Universal Studios Orlando

It may be tempting to buy food from popular theme parks like Disney Land. However, it can cost a fortune! Sharing your meals with family members will help cut the overall costs of your theme park meals.

The trick here is to locate menu items that are hefty and provide a good portion that would satisfy at least two people. This strategy allows you the opportunity to try some of the food you have seen in the park and enjoy the overall theme park meal experience.

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