Are you ready to hang out with monster hunters (also known as Hounds) at The Burning Blade Tavern in Epic Universe?
I’ve just returned from an unforgettable adventure at Universal’s newest hotspot, and I’m super excited to tell you all about it.
The Burning Blade Tavern isn’t just another theme park eatery! It’s a full-on immersive experience that’ll have you coming back for more!
I even got to chat with a highly respected monster hunter who gave me all the details that I can’t wait to share with you today.
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Key Takeaways
- The Burning Blade Tavern is a themed dining experience inspired by the 1931 film Frankenstein.
- You can enjoy a unique atmosphere filled with monster-hunting lore and storytelling elements.
- The menu features items priced from $11.49 to $18.00, including standout dishes like Burning Cheddar Bites and Darkthorne Mead.
- No reservations are needed, making it a convenient stop for quick bites as you explore the Dark Universe.
- The tavern’s design includes a visually striking windmill that erupts into flames, making the experience even more hauntingly special
What to Expect at Burning Blade Tavern
Located in the heart of Dark Universe, this monster hunter hangout is inspired by the fiery finale of the 1931 Frankenstein film.
The moment you step inside, you’re transported to a world where brave hunters protect humanity from creatures of the night.
No reservations needed here!
All you have to do is just show up during park hours and prepare to be amazed by the trophy-lined walls showcasing vanquished monsters.
I also love that this Epic Universe restaurant has a Mobile Order Food Pickup Window.
So even if you’re in a monstrous rush you can still swing by for some of their frighteningly delicious dishes.
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Atmosphere of this Dark Universe Restaurant
Talk about ambiance!
The tavern features this incredible windmill on top that actually erupts into flames, creating a spectacle you can spot from across the park.
Listen for the ringing bells, it’s your secret signal that the windmill’s blades are about to ignite!
Inside, you’ll find yourself surrounded by fellow monster hunters sharing tales of their exploits while you dine.
I love how it’s both eerie and cozy inside, with an atmosphere that feels incredibly immersive.
It literally feels like you entered a portal to another monstrous world, and the theming absolutely comes alive with Dark Universe vibes.
Although it can get crowded at times, this gives you more space to soak in all the details.
Menu Highlights at Burning Blade Tavern
The food here is seriously next-level, with prices ranging from $11.49 to $18.
- Burning Cheddar Bites: These put other national food chains to shame with its crispy, gooey, and perfectly seasoned bites!
- Hunters Garlic Stake: Not just cleverly named, but packed with flavor. Just have a mint on hand to combat the garlic breath!
- Darkthorne Mead: Possibly one of the best beverages in the entire park with its unique taste that compliments most of the items on the menu.
Every dish tells a story, connecting to the monster-hunting theme in clever ways that’ll give you chills between bites.
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Fun Facts About Burning Blade Tavern at Epic Universe
These legendary fun facts about Burning Blade Tavern will make your visit to Epic Universe even more hauntingly unforgettable!
Did you know that:
- One of the coolest effects are the blades of the windmill bursting into flames
- You can see the glow of the fire flickering through the ceiling boards when your inside
- Check out the garden outside the tavern, it’s a beautiful garden of bones and skulls
- Inside, live performers play members of the Hounds making your dining experience even more interactive and monstrously fun
- Look behind the bar, there is a petrified head! Its Gill-Man from the 1954s Creature from the Black Lagoon on display
- The infamous historic hoax, the Fiji Mermaid, is a spooky Easter egg for fans of classic oddities. Throughout the tavern, you’ll spot more props that serve as hidden monster Easter eggs like the stray fez behind the bar
- There is also an insectoid monster head nicknamed the “Mantis” paying homage to Universal’s 1957 film The Deadly Mantis
The Burning Blade Tavern is stitched with trophies from the Hounds’ monster-hunting adventures all throughout.
One of my favorite touches lurks outside the tavern, a sign that reads, ’Don’t feed the animals…especially werewolves!’
You’ve been warned, ThemeParkHipsters!
Dining Tips and Details
Having visited during the opening month (the tavern officially debuted May 22, 2025), I’ve got some insider tips for you:
- Visit during off-peak hours to avoid the crowds (early morning, post-lunch, and near park closing)
- Listen closely to the servers as they’ll share fascinating monster hunter lore with you
- Snap a pic of the flaming windmill spectacle (it happens periodically)
- Contrast your experience with Das Stakehaus, which tells the monster’s side of the story
- Use mobile ordering (you can only order drinks/cocktails inside, and if you want to order food, you’ll have to order on your phone and pick up your items at the outdoor window)
Remember, this is quick-service dining, so don’t expect a lengthy sit-down experience.
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My Review of the Food at Burning Blade Tavern
Let me be straight with you, I was actually blown away by the quality here.
Theme park food can often disappoint, but Burning Blade Tavern defies expectations in my opinion.
The Burning Cheddar Bites were my personal favorite, with the crispy exterior giving way to molten cheese that’s seasoned to perfection.
The Darkthorne Mead isn’t just Instagram-worthy; it’s genuinely delicious with complex flavors that linger pleasantly.
I had to try the Hunters Garlic Stake and let me tell you, it is an absolute must try dish on the menu at The Burning Blade Tavern.
It is soooo buttery and just enough garlic to keep the vampires away. It is also one of the vegetarian dishes on the menu!
What really sets this place apart is how the food enhances the storytelling. The dishes are super creative and all part of the theming.
Every bite and sip feels like you’re truly part of this monster-hunting world, making it worth every penny.
If you’re visiting Epic Universe, consider this your must-stop food destination. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!
Contributors
About the Author
My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor, and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!
Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.
Connect with me on Instagram!
About the Author
Sarah Jordan is a solo traveler enthusiast, professional travel writer, and proud mama to her rescue dog Coconut.
With a love for destinations across the globe, she made Epcot her first theme park and still treasures her EPCOT World Showcase passport to this day.
After finally following her inner wanderlust, she discovered the freedom and empowerment that solo travel brings.
