This weekend we were lucky enough to be visiting Universal Orlando on Father’s Day weekend during the soft opening for the new Minion Café! The eagerly awaited Minion Land’s culinary centerpiece, Illumination’s Minion Café, opened their doors on Saturday, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the whimsical charm of these lovable yellow characters. In this blog post, we will take an in-depth look at the new Minion Café and explore the surrounding Minion Land, discovering the exciting attractions, delectable treats, and unforgettable experiences that await.
Note: The information provided in this blog post is based on available information up until June 2023, and it is recommended to check the official Universal Orlando Resort website for the most up-to-date details regarding Illumination’s Minion Café and Minion Land.
Illumination’s Minion Café
Situated at Universal Orlando’s new Minion Land, the Minion Café is a culinary haven that caters to both the stomach and the eyes. From the moment you step inside, you’ll be greeted by a lively atmosphere filled with Minion-themed decor and an infectious energy that is sure to bring a smile to your face. This Cafe is one of Universal’s newest dining style, fast casual, where you are seated at the table and order entirely from the App. You can also order to go via the App.
The Menu
The Minion Café offers a delightful selection of whimsically named dishes that reflect the playful spirit of the Minions. Indulge in the Despica-Bowls, which feature a variety of mouthwatering options such as Kevin’s Chopa Chopa Salad, a vibrant mix of purple cabbage, arugula, crispy pork belly, and more. For a burst of flavor, try El Macho’s Salsa y Salsa Ropa Vieja, a dish showcasing braised beef with tomato cucumber salad, cilantro rice, and salsa roja. Vegetarian options like Carl’s Crispy Cauliflower, featuring crispy cauliflower florets with a sweet and spicy chili sauce, are also available.
I tried the Otto’s Noodle Bowl with slow roasted porchetta, udon noodles, tare egg, cilantro, roast corn, shrimp dumpling, tonkotsu broth. They also did a beautiful show of serving it, and was incredibly tasty!
My husband tried the Chicken Stuart’s Sichuan Surprise which was a substantially large meal for theme parks. With, Sichuan glazed rotisserie chicken, stir fried vegetable lo mein, and he ate all of it!
Noteworthy Handhelds and Off the Flames
If you prefer handheld delights, the Minion Café has you covered. Sink your teeth into Uncle Dru’s Belly Fillin’ Pork Sandwich, a slow-roasted porchetta creation bursting with flavors like chimichurri sauce and bacon jam. Another must-try is the Steak & “Cheese Ray” Sandwich, a French onion dipped roast beef creation layered with caramelized onions and a secret sauce. For pizza lovers, Mel’s Meatball Mountain offers a tantalizing wood oven-baked stuffed pizza with meatballs, fresh mozzarella, and marinara.
Mini Minions
The Minion Cafe understands that even the smallest Minions need a satisfying meal. That’s why they offer a delectable menu specially crafted for mini Minions. The “Mini Boss’ Mega Melt” is a delightful pimento cheddar grilled cheese sandwich served with Minion tots and a mini banana, providing a balanced and enjoyable meal. For those with a penchant for classic flavors, Mr. Gru’s PB & Jelly sandwich is a pressed peanut butter and Gru’s jelly creation served with Minion tots and a mini banana. And for little ones who love mac and cheese, the “Freedonia Festival of Mac & Cheese” presents mini shells tossed in a creamy white cheddar cheese sauce, accompanied by Minion tots and a mini banana. These mini-sized meals are not only delicious but also perfectly portioned for the tiniest Minion appetites. The Minion Cafe ensures that even the mini Minions can enjoy a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
Sides and Desserts
To accompany your main course, indulge in delightful sides like Minion Tots, Coconut Blue Rice, or Plantain Chips. And don’t forget to save room for dessert! Treat yourself to the Fluffy Unicorn Cupcake, a confetti cupcake topped with vanilla and bubble gum icing, or savor the Minion Swiss Roll, a vanilla cake with a pineapple cardamom whipped ganache. We tried the Pet Rock, and it looked like an art project done by the girls! The Minion Café’s menu truly offers something for everyone.
Drinks and Beverages
The cafe offers a variety of specialty beverages, including the invigorating Antidote and the vibrant PX-41 Punch (which I tried). My husband tried the Wells Banana Bread Beer and was pleasantly surprised by how good it was.. They also have Coca-Cola Freestyle machines for your typical beverages.
Other Food Locations in the Minion Land
Freeze Ray Pops offers a delightful array of colorful popsicles inspired by the mischievous Minions, Gru, and Vector, providing a refreshing treat for guests at Universal Orlando.
Bake My Day, with its iconic giant pink cupcake on the roof, serves up a delectable selection of cupcakes, macarons, and s’mores, creating a whimsical atmosphere that indulges both the eyes and taste buds.
Pop-A-Nana is a must-visit destination for popcorn enthusiasts, offering a unique twist with banana-flavored popcorn and adorable Minion-inspired popcorn buckets, adding a playful touch to the snacking experience in Minion Land.
The New Minion Land
Minion Land upon completion will be replacing Production Central at Universal Studios Orlando. It immerses visitors in the vibrant world of Illumination’s Minions. As you explore this whimsical area, you’ll be captivated by its vibrant colors, charming architecture, and lively atmosphere. The land is filled with interactive experiences, exciting attractions, and opportunities for memorable encounters with beloved characters.
Attractions
Minion Land boasts an array of exciting attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Join Illumination’s Minions at Villain-Con (coming summer 2023) and embark on a thrilling adventure as you encounter characters like Belle Bottom, Jean Clawed, and the rest of the Vicious 6. Blast your way to supervillain stardom and create unforgettable memories along the way. Or join Gru and the girls in Minion Mayhem, an exhilarating 3D motion simulator ride that takes guests on a wild and hilarious adventure alongside their favorite Minions from the beloved “Despicable Me” film franchise.
Entertainment:
In addition to the thrilling attractions, Minion Land offers captivating entertainment options. Be sure to visit the Illumination Theater, where you can snap photos with some of your favorite characters from the films “Despicable Me” and “Sing.” The theater is a hub of excitement, providing an immersive experience that brings the magic of Illumination’s animated world to life.
Shopping and Merchandise:
No visit to Minion Land is complete without exploring the themed shops that offer an array of Minion-inspired merchandise. Whether you’re searching for a Minion of your own or seeking fun apparel, toys, and souvenirs, Evil Stuff at the exit of Villain-Con Minion Blast and Super Silly Stuff are sure to satisfy your cravings. These shops are a treasure trove of Minion-themed delights, allowing you to take a piece of the Minion Land magic home with you.
Resist the Banana!
Universal Orlando Resort’s Illumination’s Minion Café and Minion Land provide an enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. With its whimsical atmosphere, delectable cuisine, captivating attractions, and delightful entertainment, this immersive world brings the lovable Minions to life in a way that is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, if you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure filled with laughter, mischief, and delicious treats, make sure to add the Minion Café and Minion Land to your must-visit list.
