The name neatly sums up the red-meat-and-fish innovation that makes this one of CityWalk's most popular eateries. The Cowfish specializes in both burgers and sushi, so guests hankering for a high-end brioche burger can dine with friends longing for a fresh plate of sashimi.
The can't-miss main event is when the two themes come together as "burgushi" (as in "burger sushi"). This includes the "Prime Time" filet and lobster roll, which redefines surf and turf by putting seared filet mignon atop a savory lobster sushi roll; and the All-American Bacon Double Cheeseburgooshi, which splits classic cheeseburger ingredients into surprisingly satisfying roll slices, each one like eating an entire mini cheeseburger.
Margaritaville is impossible to miss thanks to the enormous flying boat out front. (Named Hemisphere Dancer, it's a real Grumman Albatross that Jimmy Buffett flew around the Caribbean.) The interior decor is a loving tribute to island escapism, complete with music videos of Buffett's hits.
The theme carries on through the menu with tropical dishes like conch fritters, fish tacos, coconut shrimp, and Cuban sandwiches. Visitors seeking a unique taste of Florida should try the Florida grouper sandwich, which combines the mild but hearty fish (available grilled for health-conscious diners) with a caper aioli and coleslaw.
To enter Antojitos is to be transported to a neon vision of Mexican culture—it's worth taking a stroll just to appreciate the wall and ceiling art. As at almost any Mexican restaurant, familiar comfort fare like burritos, tacos, and tortilla chips with guacamole are satisfying and close at hand.
For those interested in street food, Antojitos has three excellent options: cochinita tacos, which feature traditional slow-cooked achiote pork; savory chicken tamales; and crispy pork gorditas, whose thick corn dough sides are ideal for delivering the included salsas and sauces.
Is there a sporting event somewhere in North America? Chances are it'll be on at least one of NBC Sports Grill & Brew's nearly 100 HD televisions. If that's not enough sports, there's also a phone booth that allows patrons to call into NBC Sports Radio when it's on the air to give their opinion on anything in sportsdom.
Meanwhile, the menu elevates traditional sports bar food. Order the descriptively named Large Warm Soft Pretzel, for example, and it's just that: enormous (the pretzel is carried in a special harness), piping hot, and delectably doughy. The burger selection, another highlight, includes a Smokehouse Stack with a beef patty, beef brisket, and smoked pork.
Orlando has had its very own Blue Men in residence at Universal CityWalk since 2007, so visitors can enjoy their unique blend of comedy, concert, and dance party before or after dining. Expect to do more than just watch—Blue Man Group performances lean heavily into audience participation, both by plucking individuals from their seats and by getting the whole audience involved with props.
An even more interactive option is the VIP Experience. It includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the theater, the chance to play a Blue Man Group instrument, VIP show seating, and a private meet-and-greet with a Blue Man.
Many of the restaurants feature musical performances in the evening, including Bob Marley – A Tribute to Freedom (reggae, of course), Pat O'Brien's (dueling pianos), and the Red Coconut Club (recent hits, oldies, and Latin music).
The Red Coconut Club has a dance floor, but head to the Groove for a multilevel dance club. For more of a concert experience, see who's playing at the Hard Rock Live stadium at the Hard Rock Cafe. There are also outdoor performances by the water at the Lagoon Stage. Feeling brave? Be your own entertainment at CityWalk's Rising Star karaoke club, where you can sing along with a real band and backup singers Tuesday through Saturday evenings. (Note that the Red Coconut Club, the Groove, and CityWalk's Rising Star have age restrictions.)
Much of Universal Orlando Resort is themed around movies, so why not take one in at CityWalk? Twenty screens ensure that all the latest releases are on offer, and the seating is modern and comfortable.
AAA members can save up to 41 percent on AMC admission by buying AMC Yellow Tickets online through AAA. This CityWalk discount isn't available at the box office, so make sure to buy your tickets ahead of time. (California members should be aware that AMC Yellow Tickets purchased online for use in Florida aren't valid at California AMC locations.)
CityWalk is no slouch when it comes to apparel shopping. Those looking for outfits to match Orlando's laid-back resort atmosphere can check out The Island Clothing Co. and Quiet Flight Surf Shop, two boutiques that specialize in sporty summer wear. There's also Fresh Produce, a women's boutique for comfortable warm-weather outfits and swimwear.
For gifts, P!Q offers an unbeatable selection of art, figurines, books, and curiosities—perhaps you know someone who would appreciate a fantastical mounted felt creature head? Nearby, vintage-style leather retailer Fossil offers more upscale gifts like watches, belts, handbags, and wallets with classic flair.
Book a travel package through AAA & enjoy exclusive benefits
AAA members receive exclusive pricing and special benefits when they book a Universal Orlando Resort vacation package through AAA, including activity credits, priority seating, in-park discounts on food and merchandise, and more. Packages can be booked online or at a AAA branch.
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