The immersive experiences within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter bring you as close as you can get to actually living out the fantasy. And one of the most tantalizing ways to immerse your senses is tasting some of the famous treats and flavorful beverages available in Hogsmeade at Universal Islands of Adventure and Diagon Alley at Universal Studios Florida. With each sip of Butterbeer, my transformation from Jimi Kunkel, Universal Orlando Team Member, to James Kunkel, fourth-year Hufflepuff Seeker, nears completion.
And so it is with a full heart — and even fuller stomach — that I bring you a guide to the must-eat, must-drink, must-save-room-for-Butterbeer items you should check out in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort. Because in addition to a number of other admirable qualities, we Hufflepuffs are known for our exquisite taste.
BREAKFAST
As the saying goes at Universal Orlando Resort: early to rise, early to ride. This is why staying on property and taking advantage of Early Park Admission can be your best friend, especially with early access to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Plus, arriving early means in-park breakfast and I highly recommend you make time to enjoy a pleasant sit-down morning meal at one of the two remarkably themed restaurants in Hogsmeade or Diagon Alley before setting off on your journey.
Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley
Recommendations: To fully immerse yourself in the wizarding world you’ve got to go all in, which is why I recommend choosing one of the more adventurous breakfast plates like the delicious Egg, Leek and Mushroom Pasty.
Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade
Recommendations: The Traditional English Breakfast is the star of the show here, but when I’m in the mood for an old reliable I usually opt for the American Breakfast.
Breakfast Menu – Currently Unavailable
Check the Universal Orlando App for availability and mobile ordering during your visit.
LUNCH/DINNER
If there’s one word to describe the majority of meals you will find at seated dining locations throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter it is hearty. The menus at the Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks are loaded with wholesome dishes offering a feast of familiar and even some unfamiliar British fare. This, in addition to extraordinary theming and lively ambiance, makes the entire dining experience an attraction unto itself.
Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley
Recommendations: I can’t stress enough how good the Beef, Lamb & Guinness Stew really is, but I also dig the Mini Pie Combination.
Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade
Recommendations: Fish & Chips is my choice, but if you want something a bit more eclectic try the Great Feast.
Both the Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks have kids menu options as well if you’re traveling with young ones.
Short on time? There’s a variety of grab-and-go food options throughout both lands so you can keep exploring and make use of every last valuable minute in the wizarding world.
London Taxi Cart – Diagon Alley
Recommendations: Loaded Jacket Potato
BEVERAGES
When it comes to drinks in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Butterbeer is a must-try. However, choices abound beyond just that sweet butterscotch concoction, including a number of other favorite drinks from the stories. Though, if you do opt for Butterbeer, the decision you’ll have to make is…which kind?
Where to get Butterbeer…
Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, The Hopping Pot, The Fountain of Fair Fortune
Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head, Street Carts
Recommendation: Frozen Butterbeer is my personal favorite, but cold Butterbeer and hot Butterbeer are also worth a try.
Dairy-free Butterbeer is now available at The Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment – Carkitt Market in Diagon Alley
Recommendations: Sample the lot! Combine Fire Protection Potion, Babbling Beverage, Draught of Peace, or Elixir to Induce Euphoria with a bottle of Gillywater for a flavorful treat.
Other Beverages…
Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks
Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, Fountain of Fair Fortune, The Hopping Pot
Recommendations: Pumpkin Juice is the classic, but Fishy Green Ale and Otter’s Fizzy Orange Juice are the more adventurous choices.
Adult Beverages…
Hogsmeade – Three Broomsticks, Hog’s Head
Diagon Alley – Leaky Cauldron, Fountain of Fair Fortune, The Hopping Pot
Recommendations: Try the exclusive Hog’s Head Brew or other domestic and imported beers.
Check each location for availability of specific beverages. *Must be 21 years or older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.
TREATS
Butterbeer isn’t the only sweet treat to be found in the wizarding world. Both lands feature their own whimsically-themed candy shops with shelves and glass cases of popular treats from the stories and some originals you won’t find anywhere else, too.
Honeydukes – Hogsmeade
Sugarplum’s Sweet Shop – Diagon Alley
Recommendations: Too many to name… but I’ll try. Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Chocolate Frogs, Exploding Bonbons, Fizzing Whizbees, Fudge Flies, Butterbeer Fudge (yes, this exists and yes, it is absolutely delicious).
Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour – Diagon Alley
Recommendations: If you have to choose just one, you’ve gotta go with Butterbeer ice-cream, but save room to try the Earl Grey & Lavender, Chocolate Chili and Sticky Toffee Pudding if you can.
HEALTHY EATING
And if you’re looking for options for healthy eating or special dietary needs, we got you covered with some delicious options. If you or another guest have food allergies or intolerances, we offer a number of dining options throughout The Wizarding World of Harry Potter where our chefs and culinary staff can accommodate your dietary needs. Just be sure to ask your server or attending Team Member for options at your specific dining location.
Leaky Cauldron – Diagon Alley
Recommendation: The Ploughman’s is enough food for two and it features an array of a feast of English cheese, crusty bread, field green salad, roasted tomatoes, cornichon pickles, apple beet salad, branston pickle & scotch eggs. Wow, that’s literally a mouthful!
Three Broomsticks – Hogsmeade
Recommendation: Rotisserie Smoked Chicken Salad is a nice light way to graze and save room for other delights.
I hope my guide to eating and drinking your way through The Wizarding World of Harry Potter filled in the blanks for how to fill your tummy. If I missed any of your favorites, please recommend them in the comments below.
Eat through the Wizarding World with Nadia and Brandy in Discover Universal’s Dine and Ride series!
Cheers!
Must be 21 years and older with valid identification to purchase or drink alcoholic beverages.
13 Comments
What is the treat in the glass jar on the top picture? Looks like it might be crème brûlée or something like that. Thanks!
Hi Meghan!
That’s actually Potted Cream which you can find at the Three Broomsticks!
Which restaurants are open in March 2021?
Hi Leah! Please call Guest Services at 407-224-4233, or email GuestServices@universalorlando.com, and we will be happy to outline which venues are currently open! We look forward to hearing from you!
Is the hopping pot open in November?
Hi Briana! While we haven’t announced the Park Hours for November yet, we do expect The Hopping Pot to be open! Times vary, so please visit the location or check the Official Universal Orlando App for information!
It said Butterbeer is only available during the winter? It’s not available in late March?
Nvm, apparently I don’t read very well. HOT Butterbeer is only available in the winter. Sorry!
Hi Zack! We have several types of Butterbeer and the Hot Butterbeer is only available seasonally. The Cold and Frozen versions are available all year round!
I know it states in the article that the chefs can make special dishes for those that have dietary restrictions but does that include those of us that have had bariatric surgery? I have had issues in the past ,at other parks ,asking if i could order off the kids menu and wondered if this is allowed at Universal? I just don’t need the HUGE portions given to adults.
Hi Emily! We recommend reaching out to Guest Services at 407-224-4233 for additional information and to help with your concerns!
Hello! Can we make reservations for lunch at any Harry Potter themed restaurant?
Hi Ann! This is a quick service dining locations, so reservations will not be required!