Deep within the Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios, Orlando, are special hidden places. Transported there by train or through a secret entrance … you are now in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter—where spells are cast with magical wands, broomsticks fly through the air, music and dance are in every alley, and some of the best theme park edibles are found.
The two areas to visit in the park are split between Hogsmeade, the quaint town where Harry and friends would venture on school breaks, to Diagon Alley, hidden deep within the London Façade and away from prying Muggle eyes. And if you are lucky, you can wander in the very school of witchcraft and wizardry—Hogwarts itself!
Just be careful if you happen to wander into Knockturn Alley. But of course no respectable witch or wizard would venture there, as it’s quite unsavory. Or is it.
Board the Hogwarts Express at Platform 9¾ to travel back and forth between the two villages in train compartments with Harry, Ron, and Hermione. Once there you can wander in the shops and try your hand at magic. You can send a Howler or try out a chocolate frog. You’ll definitely get hungry, but you can feast like a wizard.
In this specially created immersion experience, witches, wizards and fans can find all they need for a magical adventure, and settle down to eat with authentic British pub fare. Years of researching the Harry Potter series and perusing pub menus led to the creation of the cuisine in the parks to establish a menu that is authentic as the HP experience.
Here is our short list of five delicious things you can’t miss while visiting this Harry Potter experience.
Butterbeer
The first thing one must do is procure a Butterbeer. Sweet, frothy, butterscotchy and delicious, this famous drink is served cold or frozen like a slushie. It cannot be mentioned enough how great this creamy and ice-cold treat is. It is just like you imagined when reading the books, and so much more.
Ploughman’s Lunch at the Three Broomsticks
Served on a wooden plank, this healthy, fun lunch will serve two and includes all kinds of authentic treats. Several cheeses, green salad, berries, cured meats, scotch eggs, and savory crackers, the Ploughman’s won’t weigh you down in the sun and will fill you up.
Ice Cream
Sample flavors such as sticky toffee pudding, Earl Grey & lavender, strawberry & peanut butter, and of course, butterbeer-flavored ice cream, this iconic store in the books comes to life in Florean Fortescue’s Ice Cream Parlor. Over 20 delicious flavors are available to enjoy.
Fish & Chips
Served at the Leaky Cauldron and the Three Broomsticks, this traditional pub meal is delicious. Flaky fish ensconced in a light batter with thick wedge cut potato fries are hearty and filling. Served with a salad too.
Magical Elixirs
Wander down Horizont Alley, and seek out Eternelle’s Elixir of Refreshment cart. Serving several elixirs—along with pumpkin juice and Gillywater—guests can try several drinks such as Fire Protection Potion, the Draught of Peace, and the Babbling Beverage. Each elixir offers a special flavor and a magical transformation.
You won’t go hungry and you’ll enjoy real English cuisine straight out of the Harry Potter series, which makes it a special treat.
At the World of Harry Potter, magic is universal!
Find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter at 6000 Universal Boulevard in Orlando, Florida. Learn more about the Wizarding World of Harry Potter or plan your own delicious trip.
- Photos: Universal Orlando
