One of the best features of the Universal Orlando’s value plus resort hotel Aventura is the rooftop bar, Bar 17 and Bistro. This opens everyday starting at 5pm with food served until 10:30pm. Drinks continue to be served until closing at midnight or later.
The views from on top of the hotel are remarkable. Since I was staying at Aventura, the elevator transportation up to Bar 17 was easy.
I had been told by many (specifically my spouse Maggie and my friend Kimmie) that I needed to try the food at this rooftop bar.
Earlier in day, I had been taken to Steakhouse 71 over at the Contemporary Resort in Walt Disney World for lunch where I got the Steakhouse 71 Stack Burger.
Risking burger overload, I decided to try out the Rooftop Burger at Bar 17.
The Rooftop Burger was a solid beef patty covered in aged cheddar, caramelized mushrooms/onions, lettuce, smoked bacon, and a secret sauce (of course) for $17. This also came with a generous portion of fries.
I had been warned about the fries portion for this entrée. I think my portion may have been smaller than ones served a few months before. Still, the portion size was excellent for the price. The flavor of the fries were good.
Photo taken By Kimmie Caputzal
Now, the burger was magnificent. I was having this burger for late night dinner after lots of rollercoasters. Do not forget, I had arguably the best theme park burger in Orlando area for lunch. The Rooftop Burger was juicy, and it was so juicy that there will need to be a few more napkins used that one would expect.
The toppings complimented the burger patty.
The bacon was crisp but did lack flavor I expected. The cheese was in perfect balance with the burger itself. I would not call this the best burger in the area, but it clearly should be involved in the discussion.
I can tell you that the side of fries here was far better than sides over at Steakhouse 71.
The atmosphere of Bar 17 was enjoyable after a long day of theme park fun. Now, this was a slow night in early October. Yet, the service from Alex(andria) was great. I know I am not the target demographic for this place, but I enjoyed Coke Zero for $3 with unlimited refills during my meal.
For the record, I devoured all the fries, in previous months guests were told they would not be able to do so. The Rooftop Burger was a pleasant surprise at the end of the long theme park day.
Universal Annual Passholder with food discounts get 10% off here also. Feel free to give this “bites” menu a try your next trip to Orlando.
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