Visiting the theme park is a whole day affair and with all that walking and screaming, you will get hungry very soon. Other than the fun and exciting rides at Universal Orlando, there are a plethora of food options for starving guests to choose from, even if you’re on a tight budget. Here is our guide on the cheapest must-eats food at Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, and CityWalk!
Jumbo Pizzas
Fill your tummy with a Jumbo Cheese Slice ($9.99) at Louie’s. The Italian quick-service restaurant also serves up other meat and vegetarian pizza options, as well as plates of pasta such as the Meatball Spaghetti ($9.29). It’s less than $10, so why not grab a plate?
Where to find them?
Louie’s Italian Restaurant in New York, Universal Studios Florida
Jacket Potatoes
Find four different types of Jacket Potatoes ($7.99) available at this green taxi hut along the London Waterfront of Universal Studios Florida. From a Loaded Jacket Potato to a Shepherd’s Pie Jacket Potato, this hearty snack will keep you full for hours!
If you are roaming at the waterfront before venturing into Diagon Alley, check out the assuming hut for a generous portion of jacket potatoes.
Where to find them?
London Taxi Hut at London Waterfront - Diagon Alley, Universal Studios Florida
Chicken Waffle Sandwich
A thick double battered fried chicken sandwich between two waffles drizzled with maple syrup and served with a side of fries. The sweet and savory Chicken and Waffle Sandwich ($10.99) jam packs protein, carbs, and dessert all into one serving!
Where to find them?
Cletus’ Chicken Shack in Springfield, Universal Studios Florida
Large British Entrees
One of the best quick dining options includes Three Broomsticks with their large portions of traditional British fare. Order the Atlantic Cod Fish & Chips ($16.99) or Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Platter ($13.99) that comes with half a chicken, corn on the cob, and roasted potatoes.
The portions here are large enough to share with a friend comfortably. That’s $7 to $8 per person for a comfortable sit-down meal.
Where to find them?
Three Broomsticks in Hogsmeade, Islands of Adventure
Wholesome Gyro Wraps
The sandwich with a Greek history is a staple for the people of Greece. A portion of the Traditional Gyro Platter with Fries ($9.99) comes with smokey grilled meat, light greens, and greek yogurt wrapped in a piece of soft pita bread.
For an additional $3, why not make your wrap part of a combo meal that includes a tasty apple pie on the side.
Where to find them?
Fire Eater’s Grill in The Lost Continent, Islands of Adventure
Buffalo Chicken Tots
Cubes of chicken tenders and golden tater tots bind lusciously with melted mozzarella cheese, ranch and buffalo sauce drizzled all over. Celebrate the end of your exploration at the Islands of Adventure with this sinful Buffalo Chicken Tots ($9.99) in Seuss Landing.
Where to find them?
Green Eggs and Ham Cafe in Seuss Landing, Islands of Adventure
Foot-long Hot Dogs
After hours of walking around in the park, reward yourself with a foot-long hot dog at Universal CityWalk. The prominent establishment at Universal CityWalk has over 100 types of hot dogs (from $8.99) for you to choose from. An extra dollar even gets you an additional side of fries!
Where to find them?
Hot Dog Hall of Fame at Universal CityWalk (Outside the theme parks)
Milkshakes for Indulgence
If there is one thing you are allowed to splurge on, it is a huge milkshake (from $12) from Toothsome Emporium in Universal CityWalk. Choose from a variety of flavors such as Red Velvet, Confetti, and more! Have you phones ready to take pictures of this restaurant’s highly instagrammable milkshakes.
Why waste your calories on $10 worth of regular ice cream when you can get this toothsome goodness for just $2 more!
Where to find them?
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen™ at Universal CityWalk (Outside the theme parks)
Tips to save money
If you’re on a budget, here are some tips to help you save money during your visit to the park.
1. Bring small snacks
Universal allows guests to bring special dietary food, bottled water, and small snacks. Pack a sandwich or a muesli bar in your bag, and bring along a water bottle, which you can refill in the many water fountains located around the park.
2. Share your meals
Share your meals with your travel mates! The portions are often quite generous, and a little can go a long way. Sharing your food not only helps you and your friends save money, but you’ll also be saving room for more of the tasty snacks that the park has to offer!
3. Do your research
Research on the cheapest and best meals to eat in the park, just like this guide. Food with a lot of carbohydrates and cheese will tend to keep you fuller for longer, so fill up on the dairy and carb-heavy meals if you want to prevent yourself from being tempted by other snacks. If you are someone who enjoys sodas, purchase the Universal Studios Coca-Cola Freestyle Refillable Cup ($16.99) that allows unlimited free refills in a day!
4. Get an Annual Pass
Compared to buying an individual ticket for each park, the annual pass is actually a way cheaper option of visiting the three parks in the Universal Orlando Resort. Furthermore, annual pass holders receive discounts for food and merchandise in the parks!
