Wastin’ Away in Margaritaville at Universal Orlando’s Magnificent CityWalk
Let’s get wasted away in Margaritaville! Cue the tropical music, bring on the island flavor, and slip on down to the Jimmy Buffet beach bum lyrically-inspired restaurant at Universal Orlando’s CityWalk. More than likely, you’ve heard Jimmy Buffet’s oh-so-popular song “Margaritaville” at least once in your life!
If you’re like us, then you can’t help but give a little head bob and toe-tap when you hear that iconic chorus blare out, “wastin’ away again in Margaritaville…looking for my lost shaker of salt!”. (Salt! Salt!) So If you’re in the mood for some island-inspired fare in a super fun and casual spot while you’re in Universal, then this guide will give you everything you need to know about this funky spot!
Findin’ Your Way to Margaritaville
Margaritaville is in the heart of Universal Orlando’s CityWalk. Referred to as the “Epicenter of Awesome,” this area is the fantastic center point of the property where you can walk to or catch one of the boats that runs between the hotels and parks on the property. CityWalk is full of restaurants, bars, gift shops, and other amenities that are open to the public; yup, that means you don’t have to have a ticket to Universal to visit. Margaritaville is a giant two-story restaurant with a large parrot on the outside, so it’s kind of hard to miss, but just in case, the address is 6000 Universal Studios Plaza #704.
Now you know what to look for, but how do you get there? Suppose you’re staying at one of the numerous Universal properties. You can catch one of the boats that run between the properties, CityWalk, and the parks. If you’re looking to get a few more steps on your app tracker, you can definitely stroll from Universal Studios or some of the nearby hotels. Or if you’re not on property, no problem, there are public parking lots available so you too can enjoy CityWalk!
Reserve Your Spot in Paradise
Everyone is definitely on island time at Margaritaville! It’s a laid-back island-vibe restaurant, so things are a little slower-paced and relaxed at this establishment. However, there are often long wait times to get a table, so it’s a good idea to book a reservation ahead of time if you’re dying to get in. You can book a reservation online or call (407) 224-2690. Another option if you can’t get in and don’t have a reservation is to enjoy a seat at the bar and grab some volcano nachos and an iconic house margarita; you’ll at least get a small bite of the fun island vibe.
That Laidback Island Vibe
There is something super enticing about Margaritaville. From the moment you walk through the doors, you feel like you’re transported to Key West, Saint Thomas, or Cancun, and everyone is there for a good time. There is a commitment to this island vibe throughout the entire restaurant, from the bright colors of the sunset stage to the large screens playing Jimmy Buffet concert videos and music. There’s also a fiery volcano at the center of the bar that threatens to erupt at any time.
Speaking of that volcano… you have to stick around (and order another margarita or two) to witness the Hurricane Blender and Volcano Show. The volcano erupts in a smoke-infused fury about once an hour and sends liquor running down its slope into the larger-than-life hurricane blender. The blender speeds to life and whips up the iconic Jimmy Buffet margaritas. It’s definitely one of the coolest things you’ll ever see at a restaurant and definitely worth the wait in line.
There’s No Wastin’ Away With So Much To Eat!
Margaritaville is a casual, laid-back restaurant that specializes in Caribbean-inspired fare with a Floridian twist. You’ll find an assortment of seafood, burgers and fries, tacos, and of course, delicious margaritas! Not only are they delicious, but you can even have “the perfect margarita,” which is the top-selling drink of the house!
After deciding between a JalaMango, Blackberry, Mango, or Lemon Blueberry margarita (just to name a few of the plethora of options), time to turn your attention to food. Volcano nachos are the perfect thing to share with your table; tortilla chips piled high with chili, guacamole, sour cream, pico de gallo, and jalapenos.
Some of the other popular items include Jimmy’s Jammin’ Jambalaya, the crispy fish tacos, and of course, a Cheeseburger in Paradise. (“Big hunk a meat with on onion slice”… oh, sorry, started to sing again, didn’t I?) Anyway, just don’t forget to save a teeny tiny bit of room for dessert because you have to taste the heavenly key lime pie… don’t worry, you can walk it off later!
Whether you’re exploring Universal Studios or just in the area and looking for a fun place to have lunch or dinner, Margaritaville is a memorable and entertaining spot that will please everyone in your group. Its Caribbean laid-back vibe, tropical drinks, and island-inspired food combined with the commitment to the island theme throughout make Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville one of the best restaurants to enjoy during your time in Orlando.
So, Have you been to Margaritaville? Was it in Orlando or maybe another location? Let us know in the comment section below. We would love to know your thoughts!
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