First Look: Food in Dark Universe at Universal’s Epic Universe

Hey Universal Vacationers! Universal Orlando Resort has pulled back the curtain on the food in Dark Universe, offering a first look at the monstrous meals coming to Epic Universe. With just under 100 days until the park’s grand opening, we now have details on what guests can eat when they enter this horror-fueled land.

If you love Universal’s take on classic monsters, get ready to sink your teeth into dishes that match the eerie atmosphere. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll find at Darkmoor’s three main dining spots: Das Stakehaus, The Burning Blade Tavern, and De Lacey’s Cottage.

Das Stakehaus: A Feast for Creatures of the Night

Das Stakehaus brings the vampire vibes with menu items that look like they came straight out of Dracula’s castle. This restaurant features a mix of hearty meats, bold flavors, and even plant-based options.

• “Blood” Orange Chicken Sandwich – A crispy marinated chicken breast tossed in blood orange sauce, served on a black bun with pickles, slaw, and crispy fries.
• Our Favorite Vegan Familiar’s Stuffed Cabbage (VG) – Impossible meat wrapped in cabbage leaves, served in a bell pepper tomato sauce with beet bucatini.
• Stakes – Choose from three different skewered meals, each served with roasted vegetables:
  • Bird on a Stake – Grilled dry-rubbed chicken tenderloin.
  • Fish on a Stake – Blackened salmon steak.
  • Bits and Pieces – Seared and glazed wild mushroom brisket meatloaf.

The Burning Blade Tavern: Where the Hunters Gather

The Burning Blade Tavern embraces the old-world gothic horror with a rustic, medieval-style menu.

• Hunter’s Garlic Stake – A cheesy garlic pretzel served golden brown with a rich garlic dipping sauce.

Expect a setting that feels like you just stepped into a monster-hunting guild, complete with dim lighting, aged wood, and ominous decor.

What to Expect from the Food in Dark Universe

Universal has crafted the menus in Dark Universe to match the eerie, gothic energy of the land. The dark color palette of the food, bold flavors, and themed presentations make it clear that this isn’t your average theme park meal.

While Universal hasn’t shared details on De Lacey’s Cottage yet, it’s likely to offer a more intimate, story-driven dining experience based on the Frankenstein mythos.

Final Thoughts

Epic Universe opens on May 22, 2025, and Dark Universe will be one of the most immersive lands in the park. The food lineup already proves that Universal is leaning into the horror theme with creative, Instagram-worthy dishes that feel straight out of a monster movie.

Whether you’re craving a “blood”-soaked chicken sandwich or a hunter’s feast, the food in Dark Universe is set to be as unforgettable as the land itself. Keep an eye out for more updates as we get closer to the grand opening!

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Meet the Author: Nate Bishop

I’m a die-hard Disney fan with 38 years of visits under my belt, having stepped into Disney World 120+ times. Proud to be a Disney Annual Passholder, a Vacation Club member since ’92, a Castaway Club Member, and a runDisney enthusiast. Oh, and I’ve graduated from the Disney College of Knowledge. Need Disney insights or planning tips? I’m your guy!