When you think of the best hotel restaurants, your mind might immediately wander to Disney properties. But lately, we’ve discovered two incredible dining spots that have managed to steal our hearts, and surprise, they’re not at Disney! Located at Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel, Flora Taverna and Bar Helios are redefining the hotel dining experience. Here’s why we’re raving about them!
1. Flora Taverna – A Mediterranean Dream
This stunning restaurant sits on the main level of Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel and serves as the culinary centerpiece of the property. With its Mediterranean-inspired menu, open kitchen, and both indoor and outdoor seating options, Flora Taverna isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an experience.
What Sets Flora Taverna Apart?
We recently enjoyed dinner here, and it was easily one of the best meals we’ve had in a long time. Everything from the ambiance to the food was top-notch. Here’s what made it so memorable:
- Appetizers That Wowed
- We started with the Mezze Trio ($18), featuring classic hummus, marinated olives, red pepper relish, and pita bread. The hummus and pepper relish, both made with high-quality imported olive oil, were incredibly flavorful. We also added the Fresh Baked Focaccia ($3), served with Greek olive oil. Trust us, they were an absolute must-try.
- Show-Stopping Entrees
- For the main course, I opted for the Local Florida Water Shrimp Woodstone Oven Pizza ($27). Topped with garlic sauce, smoked mozzarella, charred onion, zhug, herbs, and local shrimp, it was one of the most flavorful pizzas I’ve ever tasted.
- Paul, went all in with the Freshly Selected Whole Fish and chose the Mediterranean Branzino ($62). He also had a side of potato puree ($10) which might sound simple, but it turned out to be one of the best potato dishes we’ve had in years. The fish was huge, perfectly prepared, with tons of flavor.
- The Complete Package
- The atmosphere at Flora Taverna is beautiful, with a design that balances luxe sophistication and relaxing vibes. Add in attentive service that makes you feel like royalty, and this restaurant quickly earns a spot on your must-visit list.
If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors and want an elevated yet unpretentious dining experience, Flora Taverna should be your next stop. For us, it was love at first bite.
2. Bar Helios – Drinks, Desserts, and Stunning Views
After our dinner, we headed to Bar Helios to cap off the night. This spot isn’t just about what’s on the menu; it’s about the entire experience. Located within Universal’s Helios Grand on the top floor, this bar delivers breathtaking views of Epic Universe and an ambiance that’s both trendy and relaxing.
Why We Loved Bar Helios
- Interactive Dessert Experience
- We tried the Shattered Rose ($32), and wow, what a treat! The presentation alone is worth the price. The experience starts with a fresh rose frozen in liquid nitrogen right at your table. The rose is then “shattered” over the dessert by you, creating a stunning, Insta-worthy visual. The flavors? Equally impressive.
- Cocktails with a View
- While drinks here can lean on the pricey side, the craftsmanship and the backdrop of Epic Universe more than make up for it. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for an after-dinner drink or a lively place to kick off your evening, Bar Helios has something for everyone.
- Casual Dining Options
- Although we didn’t explore much of the food menu here during our visit, it offers dishes ranging from fine dining in the $30s to more casual options in the mid-$20s, making it accessible for a variety of occasions.
Bar Helios is more than a quick stop for drinks; it’s the kind of place you can settle into, soaking up the ambiance while enjoying something truly indulgent.
Why These Restaurants Deserve the Spotlight
While Disney properties are known for their standout dining experiences, Flora Taverna and Bar Helios prove that Universal Hotels are stepping up their game in the culinary world. These spots deliver in every category—from creative dishes to unforgettable desserts, to views that rival most places you’d find at Disney.
Whether you’re a fan of vibrant Mediterranean flavors or just looking for a unique cocktail and dessert experience, these restaurants offer something special that’s hard to match.
Plan Your Visit Now
Next time you’re in Orlando, venture beyond the mouse ears and give Universal’s Helios Grand Hotel a shot. Flora Taverna and Bar Helios are waiting to elevate your dining experience in ways you didn’t know you needed. Trust us, these two spots will make your trip truly unforgettable.
Have you tried Flora Taverna or Bar Helios yet? We’d love to know what you thought! Drop your favorite dish or drink in the comments below. Cheers to discovering amazing new dining experiences!
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