We are still pinching ourselves from our very first visit to Universal Orlando‘s newest theme park, Epic Universe!
©Universal
While the park does not officially open until May 22nd, 2025, park previews have been taking place, and we were finally able to check out the park for ourselves! Universal describes Epic Universe as their “most ambitious theme park yet” with 50 new attractions, new gift shops, new shows, and, of course, new restaurants! We happen to know a thing or two about food (it’s literally in our name!), and we were blown away by one of the snacks we got to try. Of course, we are going to tell you all about it!
We need to note that while we were able to experience Epic Universe as part of a preview, photos, and videos are still not currently allowed in the park. But we will get to experience Epic Universe again before it opens and will be able to take photos and videos then, so make sure you stay tuned for that!
Epic Universe is home to five different themed lands, including Celestial Park, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic, SUPER NINTENDO WORLD, How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk, and Dark Universe.
©Universal
We spent the day riding A TON of rides, meeting characters, and checking out all the immersive details in the park, so naturally, we were hungry after a long day and headed to The Oak & Star Tavern to refuel!
The Oak & Star Tavern ©Universal
This barbecue joint is located in Epic Universe’s hub, Celestial Park. According to Universal at Oak & Star Tavern, you “can gather with family or friends ’round the fiery hearth of an ancient, starlight-filled oak tree.” The menu includes a BBQ Platter with Mango Bread and pickles, and let us tell you, the bread is the star of the show!
©Universal
This restaurant should satisfy most eaters. For our Disney World fans, it is like Regal Eagle Smokehouse in EPCOT, but BETTER! Oak & Star Tavern is very nature-inspired and fits well in Celestial Park. There are multiple dining rooms, and it is a low-key, quick-service location. We were able to order places with either two meats or one meat and a side. If you are going to eat anything at Epic Universe, we recommend that you make it a point to try the Mango Bread!
©Universal
When we first tried it, it kind of reminded us of pumpkin. It is not spicy and is just a bit sticky on the outside. It is a small loaf, kind of like a loaf of cornbread.
©Universal
While the Mango Bread was our favorite part of our meal, we also liked the hearty baked beans. For our meat, we tried the brisket and pulled pork. Of course, there is no shortage of sauces, as there are four to choose from! We will say that there are no real “kids meals” here; it is just kind of “one size fits all.”
©Universal
We are so excited to return to Epic Universe and explore even more, so make sure to continue following along with us at the Disney Food Blog!
Our handy (and portable!) ebook guides make sure you get the best deals and can plan a vacation of a lifetime.
LOL When the best part of a BBQ meal is the bread and beans, that tells you everything you need to know. Avoid!