The 2022 Mardi Gras season at Universal Orlando began on February 5^th. The return of a full parade and concerts happened delighting many guests. Though there were some hiccups, such as running out of certain food products with an AEW taping combined with the first day of event, things looked like a normal Mardi Gras of years gone by. For people like me, some mystery remained with the actual exact food menu for this event. With menus literally changing within 24 hours of the event starting, the food planners faced some dilemmas.

As someone who prefers to plan his theme park food budget in advance, this created stress. However, at least as of time of writing, I have consumed a large majority of food items offered this year. Please be on the lookout for more detailed food reviews as you plan your trip to Universal Orlando Mardi Gras. Now, let me suggest three food items you should be eating this week or any week of Mardi Gras (through April 24^th)

First, a steampunk looking façade decorates a food tent on the bridge between London waterfront area and Springfield USA area of Universal Studios Florida. This tent bears the description of being a “Fusion” themed tent. Here you find arguably some of the best treats at Mardi Gras. The best item here, in my opinion, shines as the Ube Ice Cream Bubble Waffle.

Menu description reads purple sweet potato ice cream in a matcha green tea bubble waffle topped with toasted coconut, strawberry Pocky Sticks and popping candies. If this sounds a bit scary to you, I understand. However, the flavor of the “Ube-style” ice cream itself makes this treat worth the price point of $8.99 before any discounts.

Next continuing with the sweet side of life, Universal Orlando returns with seasonal macarons. These may be found in various bakery cases. The two most prominent places featuring them are Toothsome Chocolate Emporium and the Tribute Store. The macarons cost $5. The three flavor varieties offered this year are Maple Bourbon(purple), Bananas Foster(yellow), King Cake(green).

Since we should not be eating only sweets, my last suggestion extends savory flavor. The Shrimp Gumbo with Rice provides savory flavor. Menu description for gumbo reads New Orleans style gumbo with gulf shrimp, bacon, andouille sausage, okra, and bell peppers. This combination covers white rice in a bowl. Though some of these flavors are hard to detect, the overall flavor sends taste buds out of this world. The price point helps also. The gumbo costs $5.99 before discounts.

Thanks for reading this week’s Top 3. Let the good time roll! See you next week for three more suggestions at Universal Orlando.