Universal Dining: Acoustic Brunch at the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando

Theme park fans know that many of Disney’s best dining experiences are at their onsite hotels. Whether it’s California Grill at The Contemporary, Sanaa at Animal Kingdom Lodge, or ‘Ohana at the Poly, guests can enjoy a great meal outside the hustle and bustle of the parks. What’s not as well known is that Universal Orlando also offers some incredible restaurants at their onsite resorts, all within walking distance of the parks. Recently we have covered the Wok Experience and Despicable Me Character Breakfast at the Royal Pacific Resort, and today we’re heading over to the Hard Rock Hotel at Universal Orlando to check out the Acoustic Brunch.

 

The Acoustic Brunch takes place every Sunday from 10:30 am – 2:00 pm. The cost for adults is $39 and includes unlimited Bloody Marys and mimosas. Cost for children ages 10-14 is $17, ages 3-9 is $13, and under 3 is complimentary. It is important to note that – like Disney’s onsite restaurants – you don’t have to be staying at the Hard Rock Hotel to experience the meal, as self-parking and valet are both validated for those dining at the Acoustic Brunch.

Alright, let’s get to the actual meal.  To start off, the relaxed ambiance of this particular brunch is a stark contrast to many of the buffets we are used to in the theme park world. We’ve been to the Acoustic Brunch on several occasions and the musician has always been super talented. The atmosphere is quiet and calm enough to listen to the songs, but you can also have a conversation at the table without feeling overwhelmed.

First up, drinks. Coffee, tea, milk, and juices (along with refills) are complimentary with the Acoustic Brunch, but also included are bottomless mimosas and Bloody Marys. You read that right, included. There are several options for you to customize your Bloody Mary to get it exactly how you want.

The selection of food is absolutely wonderful and literally has something for everyone. Be sure to tell your server of any allergy restrictions, as the Kitchen goes out of their way to accommodate every guest. On one of our trips we had a one year old with us and asked for scrambled eggs made without dairy milk. They said “no problem” and came back out shortly with the order.

Located directly behind the musician is the griddle station. Here you’ll find a selection of mouthwatering dishes including the “Elvis” French toast, chocolate chip pancakes, and Chicken & Waffles. If you have any special requests, just let the griddle station chefs know as everything is made to order.

The omelette station is located directly next to the griddle station, and the chef there will prepare your omelette to your request.

Birchermuesli, oatmeal, and grits are available, along with toppings for each.

FINAL THOUGHTS: I’m a sucker for buffets as – for me – they provide the most bang for the buck (especially if you can eat your weight in bacon), and the Acoustic Brunch at the Hard Rock Hotel has quickly become my favorite buffet experience at Universal or Disney. We are blessed in the theme park world with some incredible buffets such as the offerings at Trail’s End, Boma, and brunch at California Grill, but don’t sleep on the Hard Rock Hotel’s Acoustic Brunch. The atmosphere is fantastic, the food selection is amazing, the drinks are great, and the overall level of service from the chefs to the servers is exceptional.

For reservations call 407-503-DINE (3463) or online at www.OpenTable.com or by CLICKING HERE.