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Universal CityWalk- Orlando |
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Much like Disney’s Pleasure Island (before it closed Sept. 20th 2008), CityWalk is filled with an array of unique clubs, shops, and restaurants. The distinctive difference here is that CityWalk is located just between the 2 Universal Orlando theme parks (Universal Studios and Islands of Adventure), and everyone who heads to the parks must first pass through CityWalk on the way in as well as on the way back out. There is no ticket to buy to enter as everyone is welcome to walk around, take in the sights, and check out what’s there--though, again, if you’re headed to the parks you really have no choice in the matter.
The clubs each charge a cover if you enter after a certain hour, usually somewhere between 8 and 10 p.m. (though each club’s cover charge and hours of operation vary). A consideration for families, however, is that while the UO parks have greatly increased their offerings for youngsters, after the dinner hour has passed CityWalk becomes one of the area’s hottest spots for club-goers and partiers, making it a rather inappropriate atmosphere for kids, especially younger ones.
Certainly enjoying dinner (even slightly later into the evening), doing a bit of shopping, or just walking to your car shouldn’t be an issue, but as the clubs are filled with adults out for a good time and the drinks seem to flow much more freely and inhibitions seem to be far less tempered here than at Disney, sticking to the main walkway and farther from the clubs (many of which are set back but just a bit) would be recommended the later it gets.
Dining at CityWalk
(With Additional In-Depth Reviews and Menus Coming Soon!)
In-Brief
Pastamore Ristorante and Market serves Italian cuisine in a Mediterranean setting.
At the Latin Quarter, restaurant/club, the food and flavor of 21 Latin nations come together.
 The Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Restaurant & Market is new on the scene, serving up seafood, sandwiches, and American favorites in a casual setting that’s filled with Forrest Gump movie memorabilia.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville offers Caribbean, Cajun, and Florida fare, served up in casual style inside or out on the large covered deck (a good choice with kids).
Emeril’s Restaurant Orlando is an upscale experience with a sophisticated menu--a far better choice without the kids along.
NBA City serves casual American fare in sporting style with TVs, games, and sports memorabilia surrounding you (a good choice with older kids into sports).
Hard Rock Café offers casual American fare served up with a side of rock {ap}n’ roll (and it’s on the loud side but a good choice with most kids).
At NASCAR Sports Grille the fare is casual American, served up surrounded by racing memorabilia and games (a good choice with kids).
Pat O’briens, while best known for its signature Hurricane drinks, features a menu of appetizers and Cajun cuisine.
Over at Bob Marley’s A Tribute to Freedom you’ll find a small menu of Jamaican inspired appetizers, entrees and desserts.
Cinnabon is a quick counter-service snack spot.
TCBY features frozen yogurt, treats, and beverages.
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
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Specialty: American/Caribbean (a kids’ menu is available)
Appropriate for any age (prior to 8 p.m. when the indoor areas take on a more party-style
atmosphere – the outdoor deck however remains family friendly throughout the night).
Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk
Phone: 407-224-2155
Web sites: www.universalorlando.com and www.margaritaville.com
Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville Menu
This one’s a favorite. The casual, laid-back atmosphere takes you away to a tropical paradise without a care in the world, a definite reflection of the song it’s named for. While there are 2 levels of dining indoors, the large, covered, outdoor “Porch of Indecision” allows you to enjoy the Florida weather - and is likely the most appropriate area to eat with the kids in the evening. The menu offers Floribbean and Cajun food, with plenty for the kids to choose from (including the “cheeseburger in paradise”).
NASCAR Café (Look for a review of the new The Nascar Sports Grille coming soon!)
**
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Specialty: American (a kids’ menu is available)
Appropriate for any age.
Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk
Phone: 407-224-FOOD
Web sites: www.nascarcafeorlando.com and www.universalorlando.com
NASCAR Cafe Menu
Two levels of racing memorabilia, racing simulators, and games will surround you at this casual eatery. The menu offers a variety of favorites for kids and adults alike.
The outdoor patio offers a nice place to relax and people-watch if you find yourself having to wait for your table (which is often the case). The lower level is dedicated to arcade-style games, so unless you wish to partake, wait for your table outside.
Hard Rock Café
***
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Specialty: American (a kids’ menu is available)
Best for kids over 6, but appropriate for all ages; particularly appealing to adults.
Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk
Phone: 407-224-FOOD
Web site: www.hardrockcafe.com and www.universalorlando.com
Hard Rock Café Menu
With rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia galore (the largest collection displayed at any
Hard Rock Café) and music playing loudly in the background, it’s sure to be a hit with
the tweens and teens in your family (though it is certainly appropriate for kids of pretty
much any age). Younger kids (under 3 or 4) may find it a bit too loud and overpowering.
The menu is varied, offering something for kids and adults alike. If you haven’t been to
one before, give it a try; if you have, you’ll know just what to expect.
NBA City
**
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Specialty: American (a kids’ menu is available)
Best for kids over 6, but appropriate for all ages.
Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk
Phone: 407-363-5919
Web site: www.nbacity.com and www.universalorlando.com
NBA City Menu
If you’re a fan of the sport, this is a must. Two levels of memorabilia, games, and authentic NBA gear and a great menu to boot--it’s all here. TV’s are everywhere so you don’t have to miss a shot. Steaks, pizza, pasta, sandwiches, and salads are all on the menu, with kid-friendly choices as well.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. – Coming Soon!
***
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Specialty: Seafood (a kids’ menu is available)
Location: 6000 Universal Boulevard at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk)
Phone: 407-
Web site: www.bubbagump.com and www.universalorlando.com
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. Menu
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Entertainment at CityWalk |
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Blue Man Group, one of the most unique and unusual entertainment experiences, is now at Universal Orlando. Known for their wildly entertaining performances, they perform nightly at the all new, specially redesigned AQUOS Theater (previously the location of Nickelodeon Studios – just to the left of Production Central in Universal Studios).
Tickets
start at $59 for adults, $49 for children ages 3-9, with combination theme park/show tickets starting at $112 for adults and $101 for children ages 3-9. Additional information (and tickets) are available by calling the Universal Ticket Line at 888-340-5476 or by going online to www.universalorlando.com.
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