The Wizarding World of Harry Potter brings the boy wizard to life in dynamic and ground-breaking new ways. From top thrill attractions to tiny hidden details, this sprawling addition to both Universal Orlando parks is a must-see for any Harry Potter fan. For an even more immersive experience, don’t miss the wonderfully themed dining options.
1. Great Feast Platter, Three Broomsticks, Hogsmeade
If you have a party of four or five, the Great Feast Platter is arguably one of Universal Orlando’s best dining deals. In the Harry Potter books and films, the Three Broomsticks is a rustic but welcoming tavern and inn that is allegedly as old as the village of Hogsmeade itself. Universal’s recreation is faithful, even down to the Hog’s Head Pub in the back.
Priced at just $49.99 (2015 pricing), the Great Feast Platter easily feeds four adults, and extra portions are available for $12.99 per person. The feast includes a garden salad with vinaigrette, rotisserie chicken and ribs, corn on the cob, and roasted potatoes. The food is simple but expertly prepared, and the value is unbeatable.
2. Cornish Pasties, Three Broomsticks, Hogsmeade
If you are in a smaller group or everyone wants something different, there’s no reason to give the Three Broomsticks a miss. The menu also features numerous individual choices based on traditional British pub fare. The Cornish pasties are my personal favorite.
Meat pies consisting of ground beef, well-seasoned vegetables, and potatoes, all wrapped in a light and flaky pastry shell, the Cornish pasties are served with a surprisingly hearty side salad. Portions are big enough for lighter eaters to share, while even those with large appetites would be hard-pressed to leave the table hungry.
3. Ploughman’s Platter, Leaky Cauldron, Diagon Alley
The gateway between London and Diagon Alley in the Harry Potter books and films, the Leaky Cauldron is lovingly replicated in Universal’s Diagon Alley. The dining experience bridges the gap between counter service and table service, providing a rustic yet refined feel. You will order at a register, and then receive a numbered candle. You are seated by a team member, and your candle helps your server find you.
Though all of the food is delicious, I am partial to the Ploughman’s Platter, which marries some of the best of Britain’s pub food into one delectable experience. Scotch eggs, consisting of hard boiled eggs wrapped in sausage, coated in bread crumbs, and flash-fried, are only the beginning. The platter also features a trio of cheeses imported from Britain, an apple-beet salad, a salad of field greens, chunks of peasant bread, some roasted tomatoes, and a scoop of pickle relish. The hearty platter is easily enough to feed two with moderate appetites.
4. Butterbeer Ice Cream, Florean Fortescue’s, Diagon Alley
I know, I know. Ice cream isn’t officially a meal. But you’re on vacation, so the calories don’t count, right? Whether you make it a meal or an afternoon snack, however, Florean Fortescue’s Ice-Cream Parlour is not to be missed. Fans of the Harry Potter franchise will remember this as the place that Harry passed long afternoons after blowing up his Aunt Marge in Prisoner of Azkaban.
The long list of available flavors is inventive and unique, and both regular and frozen Butterbeer are available throughout the Wizarding World. But Butterbeer flavored ice cream? There’s a reason the lines here get so long, and each delectable bite is well worth the wait.
5. Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans, Honeydukes, Hogsmeade
If ice cream doesn’t really count as a meal, then candy definitely shouldn’t. But the sweet treats at Honeydukes are too incredible to pass up. From treacle fudge to sweet and sour sherbet lemons, Honeydukes is packed with tasty choices. If you’re feeling particularly brave, it would be hard to beat Bertie Bott’s Every-Flavour Beans. While the worst of the flavors from the Harry Potter franchise are not included (thankfully, you won’t find vomit), grass, dirt, and earwax are among the surprises. Tread carefully, taking a small nibble at first, and have fun!
It’s hard to find a bad meal inside the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. Those mentioned here are just a small step above the rest, in this author’s opinion, in terms of authenticity, value, and family-friendliness. Don’t be afraid to experiment, make plenty of time for both dining and snacking, and enjoy all the traditional foods that the Wizarding World has to offer.
