Dining Question..

[Gupsmom]

We're going to universal from Dec 28-31st. How do reservations/priority seatings work? Are they like Disney where I should be making my meal plans now? What number do I call and do you have any recommendations for a family with young kids? We like to do atleast 1 sit down meal a day? My stomach doesn't handle fast food well.

Thanks...

Jess

ps...A few months ago I bought the recommended guide book, but it didn't have the new attractions in it. Is the updated version out yet? I'm the planning type. I have as much fun putting the trip together as I do while I'm there.

 

[TigerLilly's Mom]

I would make Dining and other plans now since you are going on that particular week. You can call and make PS just like Disney, but I believe you have to call the actual restuarant - someone correct me if I'm wrong.

As for the guide book - the one I have does mention Shrek and Jimmy Nuetron briefly - I think those are the only new attractions. Really, you just want to do them first thing. If you are staying onsite - Do Shrek first, then Jimmy. If you are not, get an express pass for Shrek, do Jimmy, and then go back when it is time for Shrek.

Have fun planning!

 

[fredonna]

I would like to make my dining ressies now but Universal has not yet sent me any info on the meal vouchers coming with my package. (Incidentally, we can use the vouchers for a free day at Wet N Wild.)

Without details, I have no way of telling where I can use the vouchers at. I'd previously posted a question on the voucher issue as was told I could use them at HRC & NASCAR Cafe. However, I really am hoping Mythos might be included once I receive the vouchers (sometime around the first week of December).

In regards to the attractions, the old guidebooks don't mention Kongfrontation being closed. If I'm correct, this is being redone as the new Mummy attraction, right?

 

[TigerLilly's Mom]

Kongfrontation is closed - but the Mummy attraction will not open until spring 2004.

As far as the meal vouchers - I would try to do a search to see what restuarants are included. I don't think Mythos is. JessicaR is also a good person to ask - I believe I read a post before from her that stated the restaurants you could use them in.

Good luck!

 

[JessicaR]

Gupsmom,
You can call 407-224-FOOD to make dining reservations. The greatest thing about the CityWalk, hotel restaurants and the park restaurants is they all offer terrific kids menus at great prices too.

I would make sure to have a meal at Margaritaville, fun atmosphere, delicious food. A really great Italian restaurant is Mama Della's at Portofino. NBA City is fun and good as is Hard Rock Cafe. Inside IOA try for a lunch/dinner at Mythos, its a favorite!

Character dinners are offered at the hotels on select evenings. Another excellent dining experience is Tchoup Chop at RPR. I have taken my kids to all the above and they have really enjoyed it.
For a quick breakfast with nice offerings try the bakeries in each park.
The problem I have usually is too many great places to eat and not enough time for all of them! Enjoy!



fredonna,
The Universal packages offer meal vouchers to Hard Rock Cafe, NBA City or NASCAR Cafe. I guess it could change but thats what its been in the past and also whats listed on their vacation website.

 

[gschmerl]

Jessican is right (as usual). We had the vouchers for our first trip to US and Mythos was NOT included.

 

[SpideyHulk24]

Because of your dates (HOLIDAY), I would definitely make reservations for the places you MUST eat at. The rest, I would play by ear....

Have Fun!

 

[kellymonaghan]

Originally posted by Gupsmom
A few months ago I bought the recommended guide book, but it didn't have the new attractions in it. Is the updated version out yet?

The 2004 edition of "Universal Orlando" -- which has complete reviews of Shrek, Jimmy Neutron, Tchoup Chop as well as a complete rundown on the various permutations and combinations of the Universal Express pass -- is on the way to bookstores. Amazon may have it by now.

If you are having trouble finding it, send me a Private Message and I can tell you how to get it fast (and cheap!).