Top 10 Vegetarian Dishes at Universal Orlando Resort
Let’s be honest, we all know it can be hard to find delicious vegetarian dishes while eating out, especially on vacation when you don’t know which restaurants offer veg-friendly meals.
But thankfully, Universal Orlando Resort makes it a little easier to stay on track. The destination offers vegetarian and vegan friendly dishes throughout Universal CityWalk, the parks and on-site hotels. Here are the top ten vegetarian dishes at Universal Orlando Resort:
UNIVERSAL CITYWALK
Eggplant alla Norma | Vivo Italian Kitchen
Aside from being one of my favorite places to eat at CityWalk – with its mood lighting and modern décor – Vivo Italian Kitchen’s Eggplant all Norma is a delicious combination of diced eggplant, fresh mozzarella, basil and penne pasta tossed in a semi-sweet tomato sauce made in house. This favorite will not disappoint.
The Tree Hugger | The Cowfish
Known for its Burgushi (a term used to describe their original burger-sushi creations), The Cowfish offers a wide-variety of Asian- and American-inspired dishes on their menu. And truth be told, The Tree Hugger defines perfection when it comes to vegetarian sushi. With shiitake mushrooms, fried portabella, red pepper, cucumber, red onion and basil, this rice- and quinoa-wrapped “sushi” roll is anything but fishy.
Portobello Sandwich | NBC Sports Grill & Brew
NBC Sports Grill & Brew offers, hands down, one of the best vegetarian sandwiches I’ve tried on property. Stacked with Portobello (of course), avocado, tomatoes, Swiss cheese, arugula and other yummy toppings, this incredibly delicious sandwich, complete with a delish pesto spread, is definitely a home run!
Spinaci White Pizza | Red Oven Pizza Bakery
The Spinaci White Pizza is a must-try at Red Oven Pizza Bakery in CityWalk. With fresh spinach, mozzarella, telaggio cheese, Parmigiano-Reggiano and diced tomatoes, this yummy Italian creation will surly satisfy your craving.
Vegetable Press | The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen
With its steampunk-inspired architecture and chocolatey smells throughout, this new original-concept restaurant is home to the Vegetable Press. With roasted vegetables, Portobello mushrooms, arugula pesto, Gruyere and dill Havarti cheeses, this is a veg-friendly sandwich you won’t want to miss.
Vegetal Fajitas | Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food
With its live mariachi band and vibrant atmosphere, Antojitos definitely gives guests an authentic Mexican experience. The Vegetal Fajitas are as bright and colorful as the restaurant itself, with fired grilled poblano, zucchini, yellow squash, corn, peppers, onions and wild mushrooms.
UNIVERSAL STUDIOS FLORIDA AND ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE
Portobello Quinoa | Lombard’s Seafood Grille
This dish, offered at Lombard’s Seafood Grille inside Universal Studios, not only has quinoa (which I love) but also oven roasted Portobello mushroom, Monterey Jack cheese and veggies. The best part? You get to enjoy the restaurant’s waterfront view.
Pad Thai | Mythos Restaurant
Not only is the Pad Thai at Mythos Restaurant in Islands of Adventure exceptionally delicious, but it can be prepared vegan, too! Originally created to include chicken and shrimp, let me tell you that their meat-free version is just as good (if not better!). Made with rice noodles and mixed veggies tossed in a sweet and sour peanut sauce, this bowl of yummy goodness will surely hit the spot.
ON-SITE HOTELS
Melanzane Alla Parmigiana | Mama Della’s Ristorante
If you’re in the mood for some Italian cuisine, rest assured that Mama Della’s Ristorante at Loews Portofino Bay Hotel has got you covered. With so many vegetarian options to choose from, the Melanzane Alla Parmigiana is definitely a must-try. Made with seared eggplant, ricotta cheese (because who doesn’t like cheese?) and capellini pasta with a delicate marinara sauce, you’ll find yourself delightfully pleased with this authentic Italian experience.
West Indian Vegetable Curry | Amatista Cookhouse
I absolutely love anything made with curry. And if it’s meat-free – even better! The West Indian Vegetable Curry is one of the standout dishes at the new Loews Sapphire Falls Resort. It is a delicious combination of steamed white rice and yummy veggies tossed in coconut curry sauce. Simply delish!
No matter where you decide to enjoy a meal while you’re here, our restaurants will be happy to accommodate to your dietary needs.
Keep an eye out for a “V” next to vegetarian-friendly dishes on menus and ask your server about vegetarian, vegan and even gluten-free options. Also, make sure to use The Official Universal Orlando Resort App to find all the restaurants on property that serve meat-free options.
While these were only some of my favorite vegetarian meals, our venues offer so many more! What are your favorite vegetarian finds at Universal Orlando?
Written by Siera Duiser: Siera Duiser is a travel agent with Destinations in Florida, Universal Studios Travel Agency Partner of the Year in 2010, 2011, and 2012. She loves helping plan Universal Orlando adventures at no cost to you. Contact Siera to book your next vacation at siera@destinationsinflorida.com or 734-771-1290. You can also follow her on Facebook and Twitter.
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