One thing about an appetizer: I’m gonna have one.
The more I dine, the more I’m inclined to start the dining experience off with an appetizer. There are some true appetizer gems on the menus across Universal Orlando Resort, but even more so at our hotels. That’s why I wanted to take a moment to highlight some fan-favorites and personal recommendations for appetizers at Universal Orlando Resort’s hotels that you will surely want to add to your “must-try” list.
Universal Helios Grand Hotel, a Loews Hotel
My favorite thing about Universal Helios Grand Hotel is that the dining options offer different vibes while remaining completely true to the hotel itself. Flora Taverna has a calming, welcoming energy that was so relaxing to experience. You have got to start your dining off with the Ahi Tuna Crudo. This is a light, refreshing appetizer that is topped with finger lime pearls. The taste within the dish is small but mighty as all the ingredients come together to create the perfect strong flavor profile. I highly recommend pairing this with the Saganaki, which is pan-seared Halloumi cheese. Honey, lemon peel, and toasted sesame are incorporated into the cheese which elevates the dish without going over the top.
If you are seeking a slightly different approach, I recommend the Heritage Tomato and Burrata Salad. You’re probably thinking what I am: how does one share a salad? Well, the way the dish is constructed allows each guest to select the tomatoes and burrata that speak to them. I fell in love with this dish as there are agave walnuts mixed throughout the salad. I have never in my life had an agave walnut, but now they are all I crave. You will soon, too, trust me!
Head upstairs and you’ll find yourself in Bar Helios. This venue raises the bar (pun intended) of a dining experience. The views, the views! You’re likely to feel like the main character in the story of Bar Helios, and the food brings that main character energy too. I cannot stop thinking about my entire experience here, but the Farmer’s Cheese is the standout. The presentation of this cheese alone is perfect and could not be any more appealing. The crunch of the grilled focaccia goes so well when dipped in the cheese; the local seasonal fruit and honeycomb on top level this appetizer up to a whole new realm.
If you are looking for a great pairing with the Farmer’s Cheese, it would be the Fried Halloumi. A little hack is to utilize the spiced honey within the Fried Halloumi and drizzle it over your next bite of the Farmer’s Cheese. So good!
Universal Stella Nova Resort
Step foot into this galaxy and taste the array of flavors layered throughout the menu options. I was impressed with the variety of options within Universal Stella Nova Resort and wanted to indulge in quite literally everything. Cosmos Cafe and Market is going to the be the place you want to launch into. For a more shareable option, the Mexican Street Corn is the ideal portion for that as it is served off the cob and in a way that can be enjoyed with others. I appreciated this as it is less messy, but just as tasty.
Another solid dish to be enjoyed with your fellow travelers are the Wings-N-Things. The buffalo flavors are strong and impactful which I value as someone often searching for that flavorful moment. Good news for you: these wings can be enjoyed whether inside at Cosmos Café and Market or poolside at Galaxy Grill.
Universal Terra Luna Resort
While this is merely next door, it is essentially a whole new unknown of flavors to discover. Omega Cafe and Market will be your go to for those quick bites of new flavors, but ones you’ll be wanting to enjoy over again. If you happen to be reading the Universal Stella Nova section and wished you could get the Mexican Street Corn at Universal Terra Luna Resort, well you are in luck. This delectable side item, that in my eyes is its own appetizer, can be enjoyed at both locations without traveling from one galaxy to another.
One more appetizer to discover before your travels would have to be the Shrimp Tacos at Moonrise Bar and Moonrise Grill. You can never go wrong with a taco, and this is an ideal option to enjoy poolside. The avocado crema is a great complement for this tasty handheld.
Universal Aventura Hotel
With impressive views and impactful flavors, Universal Aventura Hotel can often be overlooked due to its size, but it packs an impressive punch. From iconic rooftop views to unique flavors, this hotel needs a stop on your evening plans.
Bar 17 Bistro will forever be a recommendation of mine to whoever is willing to listen. The rooftop offers a view that cannot be beat (unless you’re atop a roller coaster). The vibes up here are already the moment, and then combine that with tasty flavors; you’ll be returning for sure.
Now listen: I am picky with wings, but if they’re from Bar 17 Bistro, then sign me up. Their Wings deliver exactly what they promise and are highlighted by a Gochujang sauce. They could stand on their own as a meal, but they also make for a great appetizer before a larger meal.
Loews Royal Pacific Resort
When arriving at Loews Royal Pacific Resort, the relaxing vibe is immediately present. Amongst the beauty of this resort, you can locate some great appetizers throughout the various menus.
Jake’s American Bar is a strong choice for those looking for a vast menu with lots of options. You can never go wrong with a pretzel, let alone Jake’s Homemade Pretzel Rods. The tangy mustard and four cheese stout fondue both offer incredible dips for these already-amazing pretzels.
If you’re looking for a vibrant menu with inventive sushi options and appetizers, Orchid Court Lounge should be your stop. I often go out of my way to visit this location; the food and vibes are so chill but amazing. It’s hard to explain with only words, so just get there ASAP to try the Steamed Edamame and Daily Wok Bowl Special. Yes, this bowl is technically an appetizer — which is why I wanted to showcase it. I love that it can vary, which gives even more of a reason to return. When dining with sushi, Steamed Edamame or Miso Soup offer the perfect start to your meal.
Loews Portofino Bay Hotel
The dining options at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel are beyond flavorful, so it was definitely hard to pick. Hot take: The Thirsty Fish is a great stop not only for those 21 and older, but those looking for a bite. The Italian Potatoes and Fried Calamari are an amazing choice outside of the full-service dining options. I think about the Italian Potatoes a lot; the combination of flavors and nonno sauce served with it will keep this dish in your thoughts as well.
Trattoria del Porto is a great dining option for those looking for that full-service dinner. For an appetizer with dinner specifically, the Baked Bread is a must-do. This rosemary sun-dried tomato bread pairs with everything on the menu very well, which makes it a forever favorite of mine.
Loews Sapphire Falls Resort
The cool thing about Loews Sapphire Falls Resort is the endless amount of dining options. While these are my go-to’s, you honestly can’t go wrong with anything across this resort.
The Coconut-Aji Amarillo Shrimp and Ancho Chile Chicken Empanadas are both can’t-miss choices at Amatista Cookhouse. I am fully in my empanada era, and these never disappoint. The flavors in the coconut shrimp dish make for a pretty amazing starter.
Strong Water Tavern is a fan-favorite with a plethora of delicious choices, too. Whenever I am here — which is frequently — I can never make up my mind, which showcases how impressive this lineup is. While technically not an appetizer, the coconut rice that comes on the side of the Happy Tails Farm Curry Goat is an appetizer in my mind. The pairing with the curry is too good not to get.
Moving over to the Dhrum Club Kantine, I love the Tampico Nachos. When I am in a nacho mood, these are the ones I am in the mood for. I choose the fire roasted chicken to top off this mountain of flavor for the perfect poolside snack. No matter where you land at this hotel, you will find a hidden gem of flavors.
Hard Rock Hotel
With the flavors amped up at Hard Rock Hotel, you will find some off-the-chart appetizers to choose from. The Kitchen has one of my current favorite starters: the Smoked Chicken Flatbread. It’s a lighter option but still filling. The mixture of toppings — including mozzarella and bacon-onion jam — pair so well with each other atop the flatbread. To be honest, I could pair this with The Kitchen’s Chicken Orzo Soup and call it a meal; the remaining options on the menu, though, will have you opting to continue your dining experience.
Universal Cabana Bay Beach Resort
I adore exploring this hotel because I always find something new to love. For example, The Hideaway Bar & Grill is a location I stumbled upon, which I guess makes sense given the name. I opted for The Original Honolulu Hotdog; while technically not an appetizer, if you share it with someone, it can be. I did not share mine, though, since it was too good to share. Another food move I partake in is dessert first — so basically it is an appetizer. The sweet tooth in me often wins and when it does, I go for a PB&J Shake from Shakes Malt Shoppe.
Universal Endless Summer Resort – Surfside Inn and Suites & Dockside Inn and Suites
Some days you need a midday pick-me-up and delicious pizza definitely counts as an appetizer when that moment hits. Whether you are ordering Dockside Pizza Delivery or Surfside Pizza Delivery, the Garlic Bread Sticks are too good and an appetizer in my mind. Plus, you don’t even have to leave that comfy bed to enjoy them — and I call that vacation.
It truly is a challenge to narrow my personal list of appetizer recommendations down, but I wanted to highlight some across the board as well as touch on numerous flavors for whatever fits your dining mood! The best thing about appetizers is that they can both start off the meal in a wonderful light, but also be your meal if played right. I don’t feel as pressured when ordering an appetizer compared to an entrée, so there is more of a chance to explore. (Which I have, and this led to me crafting this article!)
With so many unique, elevated, and fun appetizers throughout our Universal Orlando Resort Hotels; your next appetizer adventure has so many routes! I cannot wait to hear your apps of choice — leave them in the comments below so I can book my next reservation!
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