So, Volcano Bay, Universal Orlando's new water park, opens to the public Thursday morning. And you might be asking yourself, where should I stop first once I'm through the front gates? Well, the answer is simple: You head for the bar to snag a round of cocktails. Always head for the bar.
The Dancing Dragons Boat Bar, one of the park's two watering holes, was CL A&E Editor Cathy Salustri and I's unspoken meeting place during the Wednesday media sneak peek of Volcano Bay. No, we didn't hang out there the whole time. But we did find ourselves back at the shady outdoor hangout, where the bartending squad, of Jo, Thonya, Adam and others, acted as spiritual guides throughout our stay.
Luckily for us, the Dancing Dragons crew led us through the menu's list of 12 signature cocktails, which include everything from one-of-a-kind combinations to twists on classics like the margarita and Moscow Mule. And luckily for you, we've put together a roundup of our favorite not-to-be-missed food and drink attractions at the park. Read on.
Guavaruma
A refreshing blend of Mount Gay Rum, Passoã, fresh guava juice and fresh pineapple juice that's definitely the way to begin. Like several of the park's cocktail builds (available no matter which bar you're at on property), you don't realize how potent this thing is while you're sipping. But when it hits ya, you'll know.
Quinoa Edamame Burger
The toothsome crust makes for a patty that's one of the best bites at Volcano Bay — and one of the best veggie burgers I've ever had, which says a lot, considering this is a water park we're talking about. It's supposed to be the land of corn dogs and Dippin' Dots, right? Topped with lettuce and tomato, the hearty burger also highlights roasted shiitake mushrooms, jalapeños, and what you'll think is a magical burger sauce but is actually a super-simple Sriracha mayo. Who knew?
A dreamy medley of three ingredients, the quintessential beach drink calls for Malibu, fresh pineapple juice and blue Curaçao. I tasted notes of cotton candy, so good luck ordering just one.
Blanco Kalarita
For all you tequila fans out there — and, apparently, the Dancing Dragons bartenders, who wouldn't stop raving about this cocktail. The Blanco Kalarita is take on the traditional recipe for a margarita, featuring Corazón Blanco Tequila, fresh lime juice, orange juice, agave and blood orange syrup. It's a tasty option.
Coconut-Crusted Fried Chicken
Yup, there's even fried chicken. And Volcano Bay doesn't skimp on the portions, either. A plate comes with two pieces of crispy fried chicken crusted with coconut, plus crowd-pleasing sides of warm bonito mash, sweet plantains and a light cucumber mango basil slaw.
This article appears in May 25 – Jun 1, 2017.