As a Space Coast resident, the annual Taste of Space is one of my favorite times to visit the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex. The limited-time event celebrates a specialty menu. While some of the flavors are familiar, the new options are creative, innovative and spark conversation around the table.
The vastness of space holds unlimited possibilities. The culinary team’s food offerings at the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex mimic the excitement, curiosity and boldness that space exploration brings.
The writer was hosted.
What is The Taste of Space?
The fifth annual Taste of Space at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex includes new menu items for visitors and an upcoming specialty event featuring celebrity chefs and former NASA astronauts.
The Taste of Space: Fall Bites!
- What it celebrates: Fall flavors that celebrate global cuisine
- Featuring: New, limited-time menu items at the onsite restaurants
- Dates: Now through November 16.
- Admission: Ticket prices start at $77. Specialty food items’ prices vary.
- Get Tickets Here
The Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition
- What it celebrates: 25 Years on the International Space Station
- Featuring: celebrity chefs and former NASA astronauts collaborate on specialty dishes
- Chefs: Jet Tila, Amanda Freitag, and Jon AshtonNASA astronauts: Robert Cabana, Nicole Stott and Michael Lopez-Alegria
- Dates: November 15th
- Admission: $175
- Get Tickets Here
SheBuysTravel Tip: Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex always has astronauts on site for meet and greets, special events and more. They are always happy to share their experiences with guests.
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Taste of Space: Fall Bites Food Review
Orbit Café’s Taste of Space’s Menu
Three menu items are featured on Orbit Café’s Taste of Space menu:
- Lentil chili with crisp tortilla chips
- Spaetzle with mushrooms
- A warm apple blossom with caramel
I was pleasantly surprised by the lentil chili. The hearty, protein-packed dish never feels heavy. Served with tortilla chips, I controlled the perfect bite. That sense of playfulness embodies the sentiment felt throughout the Kennedy Space Center Visitors Complex.
As a dessert lover, I can never resist a sweet ending. The apple blossom surprised me with the flakey pastry and tender apples. With just the right sweetness, it captures what the Taste of Space does best, adding a twist to the classic.
SheBuysTravel Tip: The spaetzle with brown butter sauce is a dish that can get kids to venture away from simple butter noodles. It is a great food order that is approachable yet full of flavor.
Mood Rock Café Celebrates Global Flavors
During Taste of Space, Moon Rock Cafe skips the food cliches and focuses on clever interpretations of fall flavors.
- Crispy pork schnitzel sandwich
- Golden potato latke dippers served with cranberry ketchup
- Chocolate Bundt cake with cranberry chutney
Channeling a taste from the biergarten, the pork schnitzel is a hearty sandwich and one that I happily shared with my group. The combination of crispy breaded pork with the bright, zesty slaw is approachable with a nod to authentic flavors.
The potato latke dippers have a great texture. More importantly, dipping them into the cranberry ketchup brightens the whole dish. The slightly tangy condiment made me ask for a second helping.
SheBuysTravel Tip: The chocolate Bundt cake is a must-order for chocolate lovers. It is rich and is easily shared with others. It is a delightful treat to end a long day of exploration.
Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition Brings Together Chefs and Astronauts
A highlight of the annual event, the Taste of Space: Celebrity Chef Edition pairs culinary greats with former NASA astronauts. It is an opportunity to showcase how food connects people and the cosmos.
According to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex team, the chefs and astronauts have been collaborating on their specialty dishes. In a recent Jet Tila interview, the chef said that this experience is a “full circle” moment for him. While he will be bringing food from his repertoire, the powerful, flavorful dishes will excite the crowd.
During the kick-off event, I learned that one of astronauts’ favorite dishes in space is shrimp cocktail. Maybe one of the chefs will offer a creative take on shrimp with a spicy condiment.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Guests can opt for the Exclusive VIP Chef Experience. The $499 meal includes a plated meal by the celebrity chefs, open bar and photo/autograph opportunities with the chefs and astronauts.
About the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
Getting there
- Location: Space Commerce Way, Merritt Island, FL 32953
- From Orlando: Travel east on SR 528 for approximately 50 miles to SR 407 exit, which is on the left for Kennedy Space Center and Titusville. Travel an additional 7.5 miles to the entrance. It is approximately 1 hour travel time from Orlando.
Admissions and Ticketing
- Hours: Monday through Sunday. Hours vary depending on the season.
- General Admission: Tickets start at $77, discounts and packages are available.
Things to Do
Watch a Rocket Launch at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex
While Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex continually celebrates space exploration, watching a live rocket launch makes a visit even more memorable. The complex’s website has a countdown alert for upcoming launches.
Guests can plan to watch an anticipated launch at two locations, Gantry at LC-39 and Apollo/Saturn V Center. Each location includes live commentary as well as launch audio and video.
These particular locations open at 9:45 a.m. on launch day. Space is limited and is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
If you like to explore during the day, like me, watch the launches from the main complex. Once the rocket clears the tree line, it will be visible. This option keeps everyone occupied instead of just waiting.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Rocket launches are never guaranteed. Weather conditions and other factors can postpone or cancel a launch.
For Families, Get Interactive
Families should prioritize Gateway: The Deep Space Launch Complex featuring Spaceport KSC and Space Shuttle Atlantis with the Shuttle Launch Experience. Pairing one of these options with time to explore the Rocket Garden, Planet Play and some food keeps everyone engaged.
For Space Buffs, Take a Bus Tour
For a more complete discussion, the Kennedy Space Center Bus Tour is a highlight. As a space enthusiast, I appreciate a three-hour comprehensive tour, but younger guests may need more interaction.
SheBuysTravel Tip: Enjoy a mid-day meal after the bus tour. It is the perfect time to regroup for a busy afternoon.
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