Universal’s newest park is packed with wild rides, immersive lands, and (yep, you guessed it) some seriously memorable eats.

As someone who reviews theme park food for a living, I came in ready to critique. And what I found? A lineup of snacks, meals, and treats that honestly blew me away. If you’re heading to Epic Universe soon, these are the BEST things we tried — and why you might wanna make them part of your park plan too.

Burning Cheddar Bites From Burning Blade Tavern

Let’s get one thing out of the way. It’s cheesy bread. We HAVE to talk about the cheesy bread. These aren’t just any cheesy bread bites, though. You’ll find them in the Dark Universe land over at Burning Blade Tavern, where you can pick up a tray of black-dyed, fried cheddar poppers — nine of them, to be exact — for $12, along with a sriracha ranch for dipping.

Here’s what you need to know: They’re salty. They’re crispy. They’ve got a cheesy interior that is peak Taco Bell quesadilla energy (if you know, you know). We’re talking that creamy, low-key spicy cheddar that hits all the nostalgic fast food notes. Even the dipping sauce tastes like T-Bell’s quesadilla sauce. This is the highest form of flattery. And look, these are surprisingly shareable — if you’re feeling generous. We weren’t. Would’ve eaten 30 and still reached for more.

Butterbeer Crepe From Cafe L’air De La Sirene

This is the treat that won’t leave our group chat. The Cafe L’air De La Sirene — over in the Ministry of Magic section of the Wizarding World — is full of French-inspired options that feel elevated without being fussy. But let’s be honest. We’re all here for the Bièraubeurre Crepe.

This $20 dessert stacks two delicate crepes filled with thick butterscotch sauce, then tops the whole thing with fresh whipped cream, strawberries, and a stamped shortbread cookie. It’s sweet. It’s decadent. It’s rich in that “you-might-need-a-nap-after” kinda way. The whipped cream tastes just like the signature Butterbeer foam. Strawberries cut the sweetness perfectly. The cookie? Kinda dry. We’re not here for the cookie. We’re here for that butterscotch filling that turns this thing into an actual edible Butterbeer moment. Would we get it again? Every time. Would we share it next time? Probably, because it’s a lot. But worth it? Absolutely.

PB&J Mac And Cheese Cone From Hooligan’s Grog And Gruel

I’ve had a lot of theme park mac and cheese. I’ve also had a lot of weird snack mashups. But this one had me second-guessing everything I thought I knew about food. The PB&J Mac and Cheese Cone is NOT what you think. No actual peanut butter or jelly here. Instead, the “PB&J” stands for pulled pork, bacon, and jam — specifically, BBQ harissa pulled pork, peanut bacon jam, maple candy bacon, and parsley, all layered over creamy mac and cheese and served in a crispy cone.

It’s $14 and fully stacked. Sweet, savory, cheesy, smoky — it’s got every flavor group covered. One of our reporters said this cone alone could be their lunch or dinner. She wasn’t wrong. It’s filling. Like, skip-the-next-meal filling. One heads-up: Hooligan’s Grog and Gruel is a popular spot, and that line can get intense. We waited an hour during the preview period. If the line’s crazy, you can mobile order this cone from Spit Fyre Grill instead — way faster and with the same amazing cone.

DK Crush Float From The Bubbly Barrel

This is the snack that practically broke the internet. The DK Crush Float from Donkey Kong Country’s Bubbly Barrel is visually the cutest thing in the whole park. But does it taste good? We were skeptical. Then we tried it. Here’s the breakdown: Banana cream Dole Whip, chocolate pieces, caramel popcorn, and sprinkles served in a waffle bowl that sits ON TOP of a souvenir Donkey Kong barrel filled with Pineapple Fanta. Yeah. It’s a drink/dessert hybrid that doesn’t quite follow the rules.

The banana Dole Whip is a hit. When it melts into the Fanta, it creates a sweet-tart-creamy combo that’s kind of addictive. The textures are fun, the presentation is wild, and the flavor is solid. Definitely one of the better non-alcoholic treats in the park. It’s $19 — pricey, but you do get to keep the barrel cup. The only downside? It’s kind of awkward to eat. Do you slurp the soda while you eat the Dole Whip? Let it melt in? Dump it all together? There’s no right answer. Just go with your gut and do what feels good in the moment.

Brownie Eclipse From Pizza Moon

Pizza Moon is known for its pies, but it was the dessert that made us do a double-take. The Brownie Eclipse is a $12 treat that doesn’t mess around. Warm, gooey brownie. Thick layer of Nutella. Toasted marshmallows. Crushed Oreo. It’s a chocolate bomb in the best way possible.

If you’re a fan of half-baked brownies, this is your jam. It’s rich — no surprise there — but the different textures make it more than just a sugar overload. The crispy marshmallow edges + molten center = absolute win. Honestly? Some of our team liked this better than the pizza. Fair warning, though: this is another one that’s easy to share. Or not. No judgment either way.

Witty Wolf’s Breakfast From The Plastered Owl

We’re circling back to drinks for a second — and trust me, this one deserves the spotlight. You’ll find The Plastered Owl attached to The Oak & Star Tavern in Celestial Park. This place is themed after a very tipsy cosmic owl, and the drink names are just as quirky as the vibe. The standout here? The Witty Wolf’s Breakfast Sour — a $19 cocktail made with Rattlesnake Rosie’s Maple Bacon Whiskey, orange Curação, maple syrup, lemon juice, orange juice, bitters, and topped off with a whole strip of bacon.

Yes. Real bacon. In your drink. This thing shouldn’t work. But somehow it totally does. The citrus keeps the maple from taking over, and if you let that bacon just hang out in the drink? You’ll get those savory, smoky aromas with every sip. It’s weird. It’s memorable. It’s also a pretty solid way to kick off your day in the park.

Warm Hearted Cinnamon Roll Bites From De Lacey’s Cottage

If you’ve got a picky sweet tooth tagging along, this is a no-fail dessert option over in Dark Universe. These $9 cinnamon sugar donut bites are piled high with cream cheese icing and streusel. They’re warm, gooey, and messy in the best way. And while we do wish that icing was inside the bites instead of just dumped on top, De Lacey’s does not hold back on the portion or toppings.

Texture-wise, the sugar adds a little grit to the icing, which some folks on our team loved and others weren’t too jazzed about. But flavor-wise? These are solid. They’re not Gaston’s cinnamon roll, and they’re definitely not Dollywood’s famous cinnamon bread — but for Universal? These earn top marks. Napkins required.

Frank ‘n’ Friends Pretzel From De Lacey’s Cottage

Let’s be honest. You’re not ordering this one for the flavor. You’re ordering it because you want to take a bite out of Frankenstein’s head. The Frank ‘n’ Friends Pretzel is a big ol’ soft pretzel shaped like Frankenstein’s monster. It’s cute. It’s fun. It comes with white cheese sauce for dipping. And it’s $13.

But beyond the novelty factor, this is your basic theme park pretzel. No bells. No green cheese. No tricks. If you’re craving something salty to pair with the cinnamon bites, this is a fun add-on — just maybe not a must-do unless you’re a sucker for monster-themed carbs. (Which… fair.)

Celestial Steamed Buns From Star Sui Bao

Heads up, plant-based eaters: this one’s for you. The Celestial Steamed Buns from Star Sui Bao in Celestial Park are aiming to unseat Disney’s Cheeseburger Pods as the kings of the theme park bao scene. And they’re coming in hot — with two pillowy buns stuffed with a savory veggie blend of bok choy, shiitake mushrooms, and vegetarian oyster sauce.

These buns are soft, flavorful, and have just the right amount of spice thanks to a chili oil–heavy dipping sauce that absolutely slaps. Sauce fans, you’re gonna love this one. The filling isn’t too adventurous, but the flavors are strong, and this is one of the best lighter options we’ve found. It’s $13 for the pair. Not something picky kids will love, but definitely a win if you’re craving something less greasy but still satisfying.

Bowser’s Fireball Challenge From Toadstool Cafe

Toadstool Cafe has already proven itself in Universal parks overseas, and now it’s here in Epic Universe, bringing big Nintendo energy to the table. And nothing on the menu goes harder than Bowser’s Fireball Challenge. This $25 entrée features a literal ONE-POUND spicy meatball, mozzarella cheese, mushroom marinara, a puff pastry shaped like Bowser’s head, parsley, and hot sauce cooked into the meatball itself.

You read that right. A meatball the size of a cannonball, stuffed with heat and topped with a flaky, golden Bowser crust. The pastry alone is worth shouting out — perfectly crisp, buttery, and shaped with ridiculous detail. You can scoop the extra sauce with it like it’s a giant cracker. Sauce girlies, unite. The meatball is DENSE, spicy, and not for the faint of heart. But if you’re looking for a filling, highly themed meal that doubles as a photo op, this is the one to beat.

Hunter’s Garlic Stake From Burning Blade Tavern

Thought we were done with the bread talk at Burning Blade? Think again. The Hunter’s Garlic Stake is a $9 twisted pretzel brushed in garlic butter, served with a side of garlic dipping sauce. It’s simple, carb-y, and definitely designed with picky eaters in mind. Compared to the over-the-top Cheddar Bites, this one’s a low-key win.

The flavor? Solid, though not as punchy as a garlic knot from your favorite pizza joint. But the presentation (like a garlic butter weapon forged for the Dark Universe) and that buttery dip give it enough of a boost to earn a spot on this list. Not groundbreaking, but still a comforting, safe bet if you’re not feeling too adventurous.

Mango Smoothie From Yoshi’s Snack Island

Tucked away in Super Nintendo Land at the base of Mount Beanpole, Yoshi’s Snack Island is dishing out surprisingly refreshing hits. The Mango Smoothie is one of those under-the-radar items that hits perfectly in the middle of a heavy snack day. It’s creamy, tropical, and topped with fresh mango chunks. There’s whipped cream mixed in too, which adds a velvety finish without pushing things into “dessert” territory.

At just over $7, it’s a light, flavorful option that also beats the heck out of paying $5 for a soda. If you’re looking to recharge without falling into a food coma, this is a smart pick.

Red Shell Calzone From Yoshi’s Snack Island

Now onto something a little more filling from the same stand — the Red Shell Calzone. It’s $13 and comes in a little plastic holder (so you can walk and snack, Mario Kart style). Inside: pepperoni, sausage, marinara, and cheese. Think of it like a puffier, theme-park–ified Hot Pocket.

Kids and teens? Big fans. Adults? Maybe a little underwhelmed. But if you’re looking for something fast, familiar, and super snackable while you explore Super Nintendo Land, this is a strong choice.

Lobe Blaster From Bar Moonshine

If we gave out awards for most dramatic drink, the Lobe Blaster would sweep. Found at Bar Moonshine in the Wizarding World’s moody Parisian district, this cocktail is a head-turner. It’s made with moonshine, limoncello, absinthe, lemon juice, soda, and a touch of rosemary, plus that magical-looking green layer (thanks to an emulsion verte).

It’s $18, strong (you will taste the absinthe), and surprisingly refreshing thanks to the minty-lemon balance. But this is not a “chug it and go” kind of drink. Sip slowly. Sit down. Take in the atmosphere. This one’s a vibe — and it comes in a little souvenir cup you can take home, too.

Customizable Ice Cream From Frosty Moon

We’re back in Celestial Park — which is quietly becoming one of the most stacked food areas in the whole park — for a sweet treat that’s perfect for all ages. Frosty Moon lets you pick from six ice cream flavors, served in a waffle cone or cup, and topped with two toppings of your choice. Want sparkly star sprinkles? Go for it. Want chocolate chips and marshmallows? You do you.

Our swirl of strawberry didn’t taste super natural, but it still had that candy-shop sweetness we could get behind. It’s not the best ice cream in Universal (Florean Fortescue’s still holds that title), but for $9, you’re getting a well-sized scoop that feels freshly made and totally Instagrammable. A kid pleaser for sure, but don’t be surprised if the adults in your group get just as excited once they see it.

Berserkers Meatballs From Mead Hall

Yes, we’ve got another meatball on the list. No, we’re not sorry about it. The Berserkers Meatballs from Mead Hall in Isle of Berk are basically Universal’s answer to IKEA’s iconic dish — but make it theme park-worthy. For just over $19, you get Swedish meatballs served with onion gravy, lingonberry jam, and a scoop of smashed root veggies.

The meatballs are juicy, the gravy is rich, and that lingonberry jam? Sweet, tart, and a total flavor booster. But it’s the smashed root veggies that really stole the show here — chunky, herby, and perfect for soaking up all that leftover sauce. If you’re into hearty, comfort food-style dishes, this one’s a winner.

Barf And Belch’s Duo Plate From Mead Hall

This is the one you grab for the kids — but if we’re being honest, adults might secretly wish it came in XL. Barf and Belch’s Duo Plate is just under $10 and comes with grilled sausage, mac and cheese bites, Nordic fries, seasoned carrots, and grapes — all served in a VIKING SHIP tray. It’s one of the cutest presentations in the park, hands down.

The sausage is solid and full-sized, the grapes and carrots are fresh and flavorful, and the fries are thick and satisfying. The mac and cheese bites? Not our fave. The texture leans more toward paste than pasta, which felt off. But the value and variety in this kid’s meal are top-notch.

Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot From Atlantic

The Landlubber’s Snickerdoodle Loot is a plated dessert from Atlantic, a Celestial Park table service restaurant known for its fancy surf and turf vibes.

This $11 treat combines snickerdoodle cake, cookie butter ganache, and Biscoff “sand” to create a beachy-looking dessert that tastes just as good as it looks. It’s sweet, crunchy, and full of cinnamon-sugar goodness that kids and adults will both devour. Reservations are required here, but if you’re eating at Atlantic anyway, do not skip dessert.

Cake Pops From How To Treat Your Dragon

Want your kid to declare you the Best Parent Ever? Hand them one of these. The Cake Pops from the Isle of Berk’s How To Treat Your Dragon confectionery are massive — seriously, palm-sized. They’re birthday cake flavored, decorated with Viking shield designs, and THICK.

They also fall off the stick if you’re not careful. Team Members will warn you — and we’re warning you too. Hold onto the wrapper underneath the pop or sit down for this one, especially with littles. It’s a fun (and very sweet) themed treat that doubles as a photo prop.

Mango Bread From Oak Star And Tavern

Mango Bread might not sound exciting, but it definitely deserves a moment. This lightly sweet, citrusy side item from Oak Star and Tavern in Celestial Park has the soft texture of cake with a cornbread-adjacent structure.

It’s not overly mango-forward, but the flavor still feels tropical and bright — a perfect match for the savory meats this quick service spot is serving. It’s not flashy, but it’s comforting and unique enough to stand out.

Alchemist’s Platter From Le Gobelet Noir

This might be one of the most unexpected heavy hitters in the entire Wizarding World. Le Gobelet Noir is a moody, hidden gem of a quick service spot that’s rich in theming (shoutout to Nicholas Flamel references and Deathly Hallows details). The Alchemist’s Platter — priced at $28 — is a hearty sampler that includes smoked sausage, pierogies, caramelized onions, pickled egg, beets, warm pretzel, mustard, and a spiced cheese fondue.

It’s massive. Like, full-meal-for-two massive. The pierogies are top tier, the fondue has legit flavor depth, and the mix of bold, savory elements makes it feel like a medieval charcuterie board. If you like bold Eastern European flavors, this is gonna be a highlight.

Bulgogi Dog From Comet Dogs

Comet Dogs in Celestial Park is a bit hit-or-miss, but the Bulgogi Dog definitely hits. This $14 creation features a bulgogi-style beef sausage served on a buttered, toasted sandwich roll with kimchi slaw, yuzu aioli, and salsa verde. It’s packed with bold, umami-rich flavors and has a fantastic balance of tang, sweetness, and heat.

The toasted bun is next-level, and every element on this dog pulls its weight. It’s unique, super filling, and easily one of the most flavorful hot dogs we’ve had in any theme park, which is saying something.

Final Thoughts

Universal’s Epic Universe isn’t just stepping up in the ride game — the food game is on fire too. Whether you’re here for the deep-fried cheesy stuff, the wild dessert mashups, or that sweet-meets-savory combo you didn’t know you needed, this park delivers. And we’ll be back to try even more.

Stay tuned to DFB for more on Epic Universe!

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