Epic Universe: Ranking the Theme Park’s Best Bars

Cristine Struble Avatar
Epic Universe woman statue with Chronos in the background
Epic Universe entrance, photo credit: Cristine Struble

Every Epic Universe guest is a traveler, and my preferred journey comes with many drink stops. While others sprint under the Chronos towards the Ministry of Magic or race to power up in Nintendo World, I prefer a more leisurely pace to my day, wandering among the bars and sipping the colorful, creative and refreshing beverages.

Best First Stop: Moonshine Bar, Ministry of Magic

Bar Moonshine entrance with sparkling wine cocktail
Bar Moonshine with Gigglewater cocktail. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

Everyone knows that the “Harry Potter and the Battle at the Ministry” ride is visually stunning and the Butterbeer crepes are scrumptious. Personally, my first stop of the day is Bar Moonshine.

What to Order: Gigglewater

The simple cocktail is just sparkling wine and elderflower liqueur. It is slightly sweet, bright and refreshing. With my wand in one hand and glass in the other, I enjoy strolling past the windows and casting a few spells.

SheBuysTravel Tip: For guests who want a truly authentic French alcoholic cocktail, the Domaine Dupont Pommeau de Normandie is a must try. 

Favorite Stop for a Mid-Day Mocktail: Astro Bar

Bar Zenith menu with cherry mocktail beverage
Bar Zenith mocktail. Photo credit: Cristine Struble

While cocktail hour can come early at Epic Universe, I always enjoy some non-alcoholic beverages throughout the day. Instead of another Butterbeer or Nintendo-themed milkshake, the Astro Bar has some refreshing mocktails.

What to Order: The Eccentric Orbit.

The juicy cherry flavor with the Sprite makes the warm sun more bearable.

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SheBuysTravel Tip: Grab a beverage at Astro Bar before watching the nighttime show.

Most Authentic Drink in the Theme Park: Mead Hall, How to Train Your Dragon

Viking statue at the entrance of Epic Universe's How To Train Your Dragon Land
Viking statue at the entrance of How to Train Your Dragon Portal, photo credit: Cristine Struble

The vibrant How to Train Your Dragon world celebrates both authenticity and imagination. After flying on Hiccup’s Winged Gliders, I love to stop at Mead Hall.

What to Order: Glass of Mead

The honey wine is fruity and cuts through the grilled meat’s richness. I’ve had many spirited conversations sipping mead and enjoying a meal in this restaurant.

SheBuysTravel Tip: For a dessert beverage, the Yakonog is always a good choice. The malted chocolate and cinnamon beverage is a great alternative to Butterbeer.

Most Unsuspecting Potent Potable: CelesTiki

pina colada cocktail with Celestiki menu
Caribbean Spiced Colada, photo credit: Cristine Struble

While I love many theme park rides, Stardust Racer’s green side requires a little liquid courage or a post-ride cocktail to calm my nerves. CelesTiki, located in Celestial Park, has many cocktails that take the edge off.

What to Order: My personal favorite is the Caribbean Spice Colada.

Fair warning, it is one of the strongest cocktails served. Sitting by the bar and enjoying some people watching for a little mid-day break is a wonderful escape.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Grab a cookie from the Frosty Moon, which is next to CelesTiki, and turn the stop into a late-night dessert stop.

Most Visually Compelling Cocktails: Atlantic

pink gin cocktail with cucumber garnish
Gin and cucumber cocktail at the Atlantic in Epic Universe, photo credit: Cristine Struble

One of the signature restaurants at Epic Universe, Atlantic’s aquatic-themed space has some of the most visually interesting cocktails. I love going to Atlantic for an early dinner where the whole restaurant seems to shimmer. The beverages seem to take this enticing glow that invites total relaxation.

What to Order: Nordic Lights martini or the Melon and Herb Highball

The cucumber garnish of the highball captures water’s constant movement. It is zesty and re-energizes me for many more hours of fun.

Boldest Flavor Cocktails: Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant

Epic Universe's Blue Dragon restaurant entrance with Helios Hotel in the background
Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant entrance at night, photo credit: Cristine Struble

When the sun sets, Blue Dragon Pan-Asian Restaurant comes alive. The glowing neon makes me think of bustling street markets that are best enjoyed under the stars. Similar to the spicy dishes on the food menu, Blue Asian’s cocktails are equally as flavorful.

What to Order: Szechuan Smash

From the special smoked presentation to the Szechuan peppercorns, I appreciate the tempered spice; it makes me feel alive.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Blue Dragon’s selection of Japanese whiskey is quite impressive. Whiskey drinkers have many options that will have them ordering a second or third drink. 

Most Creative Storytelling: Burning Blade Tavern, Dark Universe

Red cocktail in front of zombie photo
Burning Blade Potent Cocktail, photo credit Cristine Struble

Tucked into the corner of Dark Universe, I can never escape the lure of the Burning Blade Tavern. Stepping through those heavy doors is both a place to rest and reinvigorate the senses. The spot turns a cocktail into a memorable tale.

What to Order: Pure of Heart

Every time I order a cocktail, I discover something new. From the choice of a wilted mint garnish to a memorable quip when the beverage is handed to me, every moment is special. But the Pure of Heart is my all-time favorite cocktail. With a spell to keep the monsters at bay, it has kept me in good spirits on my occasions.

SheBuysTravel Tip: Burning Blade has a tremendous selection of specialty beers. From a smoked German marzen to the signature Reaper’s Reserve, it is my favorite beer stop, too.

A highly regarded food journalist for over 10 years, I have covered all aspects of food and travel. From food trends to traveling the world for the must try cuisine, I appreciate that food and culture are always intertwined. From covering chef interviews to the food innovations, I use my extensive knowledge to bring people together around the love of a great meal. Many of my articles have been featured in various industry publications, television commercials, and food brand websites. Over the past several years, I have been named a top 10 food and travel journalist by media publications and am considered an authority within the food journalism niche. Follow me on social media at @StrublePublications or @CristineStruble to check out what is on my plate, food travel discovery, and fun adventures.
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