As an avid Universal Studios Orlando fan, I always try to find a way to visit the theme parks. On my most recent trip we enjoyed pleasant weather and an overcast sky that kept us cool from the already hot Florida sun. I used to always think eating at theme parks was more of a chore and way to keep my blood sugar up than an actually enjoyable experience; and if you go to the typical spots around any theme park, you’ll find the same sort of “theme park” food that isn’t exactly tasty but will do to keep everyone energized and full. But I’m finding many park-goers are proving this stereotype wrong, and I have now experienced this change myself.

We arrived right after the park wrapped up its Mardi Gras festivities, and while we didn’t get to see any parades, the park kept its many limited-time food stalls up, and we were more than happy they did.

On the Universal Studios side, these food stalls were themed around different countries and regions around the world: Creole/Cajun, Cuban, Greek, Irish, French, Argentinian and more. I ended up heading to the Creole/Cajun line and snagged a bowl of the Cajun mac and cheese, made with a spicy sauce with Andouille sausage. The dish completely made me rethink theme park food, and I found myself wanting a second bowl.

While I didn’t order the slice of king’s cake, I admired how this same food stall stuck to true Mardi Gras traditions. We also ordered the chicken and rice gumbo and found it flavorful and filling.

Of course, we opted for some Harp Lager at the Irish stall, and for my sweet treat, I headed to the permanent creperie spot, Central Park Crepes, on the other side of the park for a classic Nutella and strawberry crepe. I also tried a bite of the smoked brisket crepe with pork, an apple sauce and other fixings.

As I plan to return to the park in the near future, be on the lookout for more of my finds across the parks, as you’ll find, like me, that theme park food doesn’t necessarily have to be overpriced burgers, chicken tenders or cardboard pizzas.

— Aoife O’Riordan, associate editor