As soon as my husband and I stepped into Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras media event on Feb. 1, we knew we were in for something special. The air buzzed with excitement, music pulsed through the streets, and everywhere we turned, the scent of sizzling meats, buttery pastries, and exotic spices filled the air. It wasn’t just a food festival — it was a full-on cultural celebration.
This year’s Mardi Gras at Universal is bigger, bolder, and more delicious than ever. The flavors span the globe, transporting you from the bustling food markets of Puerto Rico to the cozy cafés of France and the spice-laden kitchens of India. And let’s not forget the merch. Because what’s a trip to Mardi Gras without going home decked out in beads, glitter, and festival flair?
Let’s start with the real stars of the event—the food. After much delicious deliberation, I’ve rounded up my top five must-try dishes from this year’s festival.
1. Puerto Rican Pinchos de Lechón – A Skewered Delight!
If there’s one dish that stole my heart (and my taste buds), it’s the Pinchos de Lechón from the Puerto Rico booth. This isn’t just grilled pork…it’s grilled perfection. Each skewer of juicy, charred pork shoulder is coated in a glossy guava BBQ sauce that adds the perfect mix of tangy and sweet.
I’m Puerto Rican and this brought back so many memories for me about enjoying this growing up on the island. So, trust me when I mention that this one was perfect. Try it!
And the best part? The pan sobao bread, a soft, slightly sweet Puerto Rican bread that’s ideal for soaking up all that flavorful sauce. This dish was smoky, tender, and packed with bold island flavors. I had to stop myself from getting another skewer… or five.
2. Hot Maple Lacquered Salmon – Sweet, Smoky, and Oh-So-Satisfying
Next, we made our way to Canada for a dish that felt both fancy and comforting at the same time. The Hot Maple Lacquered Salmon was everything I hoped for — flaky, perfectly grilled, and covered in a rich maple glaze that gave it just the right amount of sweetness.
It was served over a hearty grain salad that added a nice bite to every forkful, making it feel like a well-rounded meal. This dish was an unexpected favorite — I’d gladly eat it year-round!
3. Butter Chicken with Naan – A Warm Hug in Food Form
When I saw Butter Chicken on the menu, I knew we had to try it. This Indian classic did not disappoint. The chicken was fork-tender, swimming in a creamy, spiced tomato-butter sauce that was both comforting and full of bold flavors.
The side of naan bread was pillowy, warm, and perfect for scooping up every bit of that rich, aromatic sauce. It was the kind of dish that made me want to sit back, close my eyes, and just savor the moment.
4. Trapizzini – Italy in a Bite
Italy never lets me down when it comes to food, and the Trapizzini was no exception. This handheld sandwich-meets-pizza creation featured a crispy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside ciabatta bread stuffed with juicy meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and a sprinkle of Parmesan.
Every bite was a flavor explosion — cheesy, saucy, and just the right amount of messy. It’s the kind of street food you dream about long after you’ve finished eating it.
5. Classic Beignets – A Sweet, Powdered Sugar Dream
Let’s be real: it’s not Mardi Gras without beignets. These golden-fried, sugar-dusted pillows of joy transported me straight to a charming café in the heart of the French Quarter.
The crispy outside, soft and airy inside, and the way the powdered sugar dusted my fingers and clothes made the experience more authentic. I could eat these beignets every single day and never get tired of them.
The Merch: Sparkle, Beads, and All the Festival Vibes!
Food wasn’t the only thing that wowed me at Universal’s Mardi Gras…the merch this year is next-level amazing! Whether you’re into collecting themed shirts, funky accessories, or just want to deck yourself out in full Mardi Gras glam, there’s something for everyone.
The must-have items?
· Mardi Gras Spirit Jersey – A bold, oversized jersey with vibrant purple, green, and gold designs that scream festival fun.
· Glow-in-the-Dark Beads – Because regular beads are cool, but glowing beads are even cooler.
· Sequin Masks and Crowns – Go full New Orleans royalty with flashy, feathered, and jeweled headpieces.
· Tervis Tumblers & Collectible Mugs – Perfect for keeping the party going even after the festival is over.
I couldn’t resist grabbing a glittery Mardi Gras cup to sip my favorite festival drinks from — because why not add a little extra sparkle to my life?
Final Thoughts: A Feast for the Senses
From the first bite of smoky pinchos to the last sip from my Mardi Gras souvenir cup, this festival was an unforgettable experience. The food was next level, the music had everyone dancing, and the merch made sure we could take the celebration home with us.
If you’re heading to Universal for Mardi Gras this year, come hungry, bring an extra bag for all the fun merch, and prepare to be swept up in a world of flavors and festivity!
If you go:
Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2025 runs from Feb. 1 to March 30, bringing a global food festival, spectacular parades, live concerts, and dazzling merchandise to the park. For event details, visit the Universal Orlando’s Mardi Gras Dining website.
