Being a theme park lover and graduate student, I try to find a balance between not having to spend a ton of money, yet also having loads of fun during my free time — and Universal Orlando Resort does just that. I love riding roller coasters all day and catching the next Animal Actors on Location! show while also squeezing in time for my favorite foodie spots.
Because I also really love to shop for souvenirs — particularly anything “Harry Potter” or Hello Kitty related — and don’t want to allocate most of my budget on dining, I tend to have a few fun themed go-to spots that have my favorites for under 25 dollars. If you’re like me and just want an easy and student budget-friendly meal, then this one’s for you!
Universal Studios Florida
Tacos – Carne Asada at Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck
You can never go wrong with tacos, especially when they are served from Bumblebee Man’s Taco Truck, cooking up a variety of the best Mexican street food Springfield’s ever tasted. Each plate comes with two tacos and a side of chips and salsa (green or red). My favorite is the carne asada because the beef is tender and juicy and blends well with onion and cilantro
PRO TIP: Ask for the corn tortilla option. It gives the tacos an extra oomph factor.
Breakfast Sandwich, Everything Croissant at Today Cafe
This one is not only just for the breakfast sandwich connoisseurs (like myself), but also for your average breakfast hangry child. It checks off every box on my list, from being wallet-friendly to the perfect protein (sausage and egg) to veggie (avocado and tomato) ratio. The real kicker, however, is the fact that the croissant has everything bagel seasoning on it, adding another layer to the flavor profile.
Frozen Butterbeer at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley
Looking for a nice cool beverage? Frozen Butterbeer is a must-have staple. This delicious drink has you reliving iconic moments from the “Harry Potter” films. You can find this refreshing beverage in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at The Hopping Pot, Leaky Cauldron, The Fountain of Fair Fortune and select Butterbeer carts. I really enjoy this frozen drink as a pick-me-up and budget-friendly dessert, with its flavors reminiscent of butterscotch and short-bread goodness to cool me down.
Universal Islands of Adventure
Green Eggs and Ham Tots at Green Eggs and Ham Cafe
A fun, quick and perfectly-themed meal, the Green Eggs and Ham Tots are not only one of my favorites, but a big fan favorite. This dish will immerse you into the Dr. Seuss favorite “Green Eggs and Ham.” I remember reading that book every year on March 2, Dr. Seuss Day, and craving the dish — now I’m able to have it every day!
Chicken Lettuce Wraps at Confisco Grille
Confisco Grille has a bunch of budget-friendly items to choose from on their appetizer menu, including ahi tuna nachos and chicken wings. However, this Asian-inspired lettuce wrap dish is one of my favorites. It is healthy with a nice combination of protein and veggies, yet super filling and doubles as a whole course on its own. The platter comes deconstructed and you can use the fresh bibb lettuce cups to build your wraps. This is a fun and interactive way to enjoy your meal and also helps for modifying ingredients to your own personal preferences.
Rotisserie Chicken Platter at Thunder Falls Terrace
Another go-to meal on my list would be this hearty platter. The dish comes with a slow-roasted spiced chicken quarter that’s super flavorful and juicy, fresh corn on the cob, and roasted potatoes. It’s like Thanksgiving dinner, but make it budget-friendly, hassle-free and velociraptor size.
Center of the Roll at Cinnabon
I’m an absolute sweets-for-breakfast girl and I HAVE to hit up Cinnabon at Port of Entry on my way into the park. It is not a true park day if I do not get my Center of the Roll… call it a ritual, if you will. The reason why I love the center specifically is because it’s like being engulfed in a warm cinnamon hug all around as the soft dough melts in your mouth. The moist center with the yummy frosting melding together makes for the perfect bite.
Universal CityWalk
Grilled Ham & Cheese Melt at Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches
A delicious under-25-dollar option at CityWalk is the Grilled Ham & Cheese Melt from Bread Box Handcrafted Sandwiches. It’s a fun and unique twist on your traditional ham and cheese sandwich with a variety of layers and flavors. It’s made with shaved ham, cheddar, fontina, fresh mozzarella and peach jam all layered on toasted brioche bread for the perfect sweet but salty, gooey yet crispy bite.
Big Eye Pepperoni at Red Oven Pizza Bakery
Lastly from Universal CityWalk is a stop at Red Oven Pizza Bakery for a delicious pizza pie. I recently got to try this spot out with a few friends and you’re definitely getting your bang for your buck here. The pizza is made with the freshest ingredients, from the dough to the toppings, and you get your own personal pizza, making it a great value. 10/10, I would definitely recommend for a quick under-25-dollar meal.
PRO TIP: This pizzeria is open every day until 1:00 a.m. and is the perfect post-theme park late night bite.
Overall, the next time you’re planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort, don’t forget to check out these wallet-friendly spots. From breakfast to dessert, we have it all! You can explore all of our dining options sorted by price on the park maps here.
Any of your favorites we hit or missed? Leave a comment below!
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