Happy Vibes and Delicious Eats at Bob Marley A Tribute to Freedom in Universal CityWalk

It’s probably safe to say you’ve heard of Bob Marley and at least one of his songs in your lifetime. This reggae music legend and cultural icon have become synonymous with Caribbean island vibes and good times! He transformed the music genre and inspired people worldwide with a message of hope and love.

Universal Studios teamed up with the Bob Marley Foundation and built a replica of Bob’s home from Kingston, Jamaica, and turned it into a fabulous restaurant called Bob Marley A Tribute to Freedom in the Universal Orlando Resort. Here you’ll be served Jamaican-influenced fare and drinks surrounded by the kind of atmosphere that inspired Bob to create his legendary music.

Are you in the mood for some island-inspired food yet? Here’s everything you need to know about this delicious tribute to the reggae icon himself, Bob Marley!

Where is Bob Marley A Tribute to Freedom Located?

Tucked behind Cowfish and right next to Pat O’Brien’s in Universal CityWalk sits the island-style restaurant that pays homage to the great Bob Marley. Universal CityWalk is a common area within Universal Studios 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! 

If you’re staying at one of the properties at Universal Studios, you can hop on board one of the boats that run between the properties, CityWalk, and the parks. After a fun-filled day in Universal Studios, you can walk out from the park towards the big globe, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of CityWalk. However, even if you’re not staying on property or visiting Universal Studios, you can still enjoy all the fun CityWalk has to offer! Parking is typically free after 6 pm, but we’d recommend checking the park website before going, just in case times change.

Hours & Bob Marley Restaurant Reservations 

Every little thing is going to be alright when you grab a seat at the restaurant! As of writing, the restaurant is open daily from 4:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., but hours can vary (sometimes they stay open until midnight or later!), so it’s always a good idea to check the Universal mobile app for the day’s schedule. They tend to get busy on weekends and during peak vacation times, so booking a reservation is best if you’ve got your heart set on enjoying dinner here. Making reservations at the Bob Marley restaurant is easy: all you need to do is reserve your spot online through Universal’s website or call (407) 224-3663.

If you neglected to snag a reservation, don’t worry! You may still be able to dine there; sometimes, there is space for walk-ins, and if not, ask about joining the waitlist. Your best bet is to get there a little before they open for an early bird spot or wait and have a super late dinner when the crowds have died down.

For those who might be short on time or are just in it for the food, this restaurant also offers take out. Pick-up orders can be placed using Universal’s mobile app. How nifty!

Embrace Those Reggae Vibes

What makes this place so unique is the attention to detail that truly captures the essence of Bob Marley’s Jamaican home. From the vintage radios to the historical memorabilia – and of course, Bob’s music playing in the background – Universal has brought his spirit to life in a fun and memorable way.

You can also check out the Jammin’ Drinks shack outside the main restaurant (we suggest grabbing an island cocktail while waiting for your reservation). There’s even an Island Market where you can purchase your swag and other Jamaican-influenced goods and take a little bit of Bob home with you! 

What’s on Bob Marley Restaurant Menu?

Get a taste of island life with this restaurant’s delicious Jamaican-influenced menu. It includes plenty of jerk seasoning and tropical fruity drinks along with salads, seafood, and authentic entrees, sides, and desserts. This restaurant also has a fairly decent selection of vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-sensitive dishes.

Here are a few items we think you should definitely try while you’re here. Number one: oxtail stew. (Just hear us out!) Oxtail stew is a traditional Caribbean stew full of oxtail meat, onions, peppers, and beans in a hearty broth. Hot and delicious, this is Jamaican comfort food for the soul.

The next one on our list is totally a must. After all, you can’t go to a Jamaican-inspired restaurant without partaking in some jerk chicken! The Reggae Jamaican Jerk Chicken is deliciously spiced chargrilled chicken served over rice and peas with a side of sweet plantains. (Double yum!)

For a lighter take on the same flavors, simply opt for the No Woman, No Cry Jerk Chicken Salad – a hearty bed of seasonal greens topped with grilled jerk chicken, hearts of palm, avocado, orange segments, and tomatoes drizzled in a citus vinaigrette.

If you’re in the mood for the seafood, then try the Curry Shrimp. This mouthwatering shrimp is pan seared in house made Jamaican Curry sauce and served with white rice and sweet platains. Last but not least is the Taste of Jamaica, a great way to get a little sampling of all the local flavors! This appetizer has an assortment of jerk wings, yucca fries, veggies, and beef patties, which are great to share with your friends!

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Bob Marley A Tribute to Freedom is a unique spot within Universal Studios and Universal CityWalk that honors the legend of a musical genius and reggae pioneer. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just interested in a little island fare, this is definitely worth a stop during your Universal adventure!

Have you been to Bob Marley A Tribute to Freedom at Universal CityWalk Orlando? Tell us about your favorite dish in the comments below!

Featured photo: Piano Piano! via Flickr