Going vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing theme park thrills, or settling for just french fries. Universal Studios Hollywood is stepping up its game, offering a surprisingly delicious and diverse range of plant-based options for vegan visitors. From savory entrees to sweet treats, navigating the culinary landscape can be an adventure in itself. This guide will highlight the best vegan eats at Universal Studios Hollywood, ensuring you can focus on the excitement of the park, not the endless food hunt. Get ready to discover a world of flavor where plant-based doesn’t mean flavorless!
Universal Studios Hollywood is a world-renowned entertainment destination, bringing blockbuster movies and television shows to life. From the iconic Studio Tour to immersive lands like The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Jurassic World, the park offers something for everyone. And that “everyone” increasingly includes those following a vegan lifestyle. Forget the days of limited choices; Universal Studios Hollywood now boasts a growing selection of dishes that cater to plant-based diets without compromising on taste or satisfaction.
Vegan Options in the Upper Lot
The Upper Lot is home to many of Universal Studios Hollywood’s most popular attractions. Walking through this area, you’ll be surrounded by thrilling rides, captivating shows, and, fortunately, some worthwhile vegan food options too.
Finding vegan food isn’t hard. Places that offer possible vegan options includes,
Three Broomsticks
Located in Hogsmeade within The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Three Broomsticks offers a glimpse into the magical culinary world. While traditionally known for hearty, meat-heavy dishes, there are a few modifications you can make to enjoy a satisfying vegan meal here.
The best bet is to explore the sides and work with a chef or staff member to see what modifications can be made. Request removing any dairy or meat products from dishes. The roasted vegetables, without butter, can be quite good, and paired with a side salad could make for a light yet filling meal. Be sure to confirm all ingredients and preparation methods with the staff to ensure your meal is truly vegan. Prices are generally in the moderate range, between fifteen to thirty dollars.
Mel’s Diner
Step back in time at Mel’s Diner, a classic American diner serving up retro vibes and comforting fare. While primarily known for burgers and fries, this restaurant also offers options that can be customized for vegan diners.
The Impossible Burger, when available, is a great starting point. Order it without cheese, mayonnaise, or any dairy-based sauces. Request a vegan bun if available; otherwise, you can enjoy the burger patty on a bed of lettuce or with a side of fries. Speaking of fries, make sure they are cooked separately from any meat products to avoid cross-contamination. The price range is typically under twenty dollars.
Various Quick Service Restaurants and Stands
Throughout the Upper Lot, you’ll find various quick service restaurants and food stands. These may offer simple, readily available vegan options.
Keep an eye out for fresh fruit stands, which offer a refreshing and healthy snack. Fries, if prepared separately from meat products, are often a reliable choice. Some locations may also offer side salads, but be sure to check the dressings, as they often contain dairy or honey. Prices at these stands are typically very affordable.
Vegan Options in the Lower Lot
Venture down to the Lower Lot, where you’ll find adrenaline-pumping rides like Transformers: The Ride-3D and Jurassic World – The Ride. Fueling up for these adventures requires some planning, but the Lower Lot also offers some delicious vegan finds.
Krusty Burger
Located in Springfield, USA, Krusty Burger is a must-visit for fans of The Simpsons. While primarily known for its signature beef burgers, Krusty Burger also offers the Impossible Burger, providing a vegan-friendly option.
Order the Impossible Burger without cheese or Krusty Sauce, which contains dairy. Request a vegan bun, or enjoy the patty on its own. A side of fries makes a perfect accompaniment. As with Mel’s Diner, confirm that the fries are cooked in separate oil. The price is comparable to Mel’s Diner, generally under twenty dollars.
Various Quick Service Restaurants and Stands
The Lower Lot, like the Upper Lot, has various food stands that could offer vegan food.
Similar to the Upper Lot, fresh fruit, plain popcorn (confirm ingredients), and fries can be found here and there. Always check for ingredients, as things change constantly!
Vegan Delights in CityWalk
Just outside the entrance to Universal Studios Hollywood, CityWalk offers a diverse array of restaurants and shops. This area is accessible without a park ticket, making it an excellent destination for a dedicated vegan meal before or after your park visit.
Voodoo Doughnut
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Voodoo Doughnut, known for its creative and often outrageous doughnut creations. Fortunately, they offer a selection of vegan doughnuts that are just as tempting as their non-vegan counterparts.
Look for the clearly labeled vegan options, which often feature unique flavors and toppings. These doughnuts are perfect for a sweet treat or a shareable dessert. Prices vary depending on the doughnut, but generally fall within the five to ten dollar range per doughnut.
Blaze Pizza
Create your own personalized vegan pizza at Blaze Pizza. This fast-casual pizza chain offers a wide variety of toppings and crust options, allowing you to build the perfect plant-based pie.
Start with their classic dough (check for any updated ingredients, though it’s typically vegan), then load it up with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, onions, peppers, spinach, and olives. Skip the mozzarella and opt for their vegan cheese alternative. Prices are very reasonable, generally under fifteen dollars for a personal pizza.
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
While the name might suggest otherwise, Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. does offer some vegan-friendly side dishes that can be combined for a satisfying meal.
The french fries, when prepared separately from seafood, are a reliable option. The steamed rice and some of the vegetable side dishes may also be vegan-friendly, but be sure to confirm with your server about ingredients and preparation methods. By combining a few of these sides, you can create a balanced and enjoyable meal.
Tips for Vegan Dining at Universal Studios Hollywood
Planning a vegan trip to Universal Studios Hollywood requires a bit of preparation and savvy navigation. Here are some tips to ensure you have a delicious and stress-free experience:
Plan Ahead: Before your visit, check the Universal Studios Hollywood website or app for updated menus and ingredient lists. While not always entirely accurate, this can give you a general idea of the vegan options available. If you have specific dietary needs or are traveling with a large group, consider calling the park or restaurants ahead of time to inquire about accommodations. Packing vegan snacks like fruit, granola bars, or nuts can also help supplement your meals and prevent any mid-day hunger pangs. (Check park rules about outside food.)
Communicate Clearly: When ordering, be clear and specific about your dietary requirements. Use the word “vegan” and explain what you cannot eat, such as dairy, eggs, or honey. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about ingredients and preparation methods. Cast members are generally helpful and can often provide additional information. If possible, speak to a chef or manager to discuss your needs, especially if you have more complex dietary restrictions.
Navigate Smartly: Utilize the Universal Studios Hollywood app to locate restaurants and view menus, keeping in mind that vegan options may not always be clearly marked. Consider using mobile ordering, if available, to streamline the ordering process and avoid long lines.
Uncover Hidden Vegan Gems: Look beyond the obvious vegan options and explore the potential for modifications. Sometimes, sauces or sides can be veganized with a simple request. Don’t be afraid to ask about substitutions or alternative preparations.
A Sample Vegan Meal Plan for Your Day
Here’s a suggested plan for a full day of vegan eating at Universal Studios Hollywood:
Breakfast: Grab a vegan doughnut from Voodoo Doughnut in CityWalk before entering the park.
Lunch: Head to Krusty Burger in the Lower Lot and order the Impossible Burger (without cheese or sauce) with a side of fries.
Snack: Enjoy a bag of plain popcorn from a food cart in either the Upper or Lower Lot.
Dinner: Return to CityWalk and create your own vegan pizza at Blaze Pizza, loaded with your favorite vegetables and vegan cheese.
Conclusion: Enjoying a Vegan Adventure at Universal Studios Hollywood
Universal Studios Hollywood is becoming increasingly vegan-friendly, offering a growing number of plant-based options that cater to diverse tastes and dietary needs. With a little planning, clear communication, and a willingness to explore, vegans can enjoy a delicious and satisfying day at the park. The convenience, variety, and taste of the available options make it easier than ever to experience the magic of Universal Studios Hollywood without compromising your dietary choices.
Ready to experience the magic of Universal Studios Hollywood, vegan-style? Plan your trip, explore the options, and share your favorite vegan finds with fellow travelers. Remember to check back frequently, as offerings are always changing and expanding. Have a magical, and delicious, adventure!
