One of the most popular questions I am asked is “Where is the best place to eat at Universal?” Unlike Disney, Universal’s in-park dining selections are fairly limited and if you are in the mood for something a little better than burgers, chicken fingers and fries, it is really convenient to leave the park and head to CityWalk. With so many selections for table service restaurants with prices comparable to in-park counter service restaurants, I highly recommend a table service meal at CityWalk as a much-needed break from the parks. On my last trip, I visited NBC Sports Grill and Brew and it was my absolute favorite meal.
For a bar and grill, this restaurant had a huge variety of pastas, burgers, steaks and comfort food selections. My table enjoyed the Chicken Mac and Cheese, Chicken Pot Pie and the Smokehouse Stack Burger. As much as we each enjoyed our entrees, the star of this meal was the Large Warm Soft Pretzel. This was the biggest, most buttery, delicious soft pretzel I have ever had. Aside from food, you can’t miss the brew! The beer lover in your family will be in heaven with more than 100 beer selections including one beer brewed exclusively for the restaurant.
Service: Next to the pretzel, I think the service was the next best part of the experience. Our server made the meal so enjoyable with quick beverage refills and timing the appetizer and main menu service extremely well. She was fast and very efficient, while also friendly and engaging with our table.
If you are there to enjoy each other’s company, this may not be the place for you. However, if you are trying to catch a game or have a sports-lover in your family, this is the dream. The restaurant boasts 90+ HDTV screens with every sport/match imaginable. In the bar, you can find glass-top foosball tables if you want to have competitive drinks with friends. The theming even carries into the bathrooms with more screens and an athletic locker room feel. You just can’t help but smile in this place!
During my visit, my family and I walked in during prime dinner hours and were able to get a table immediately so reservations are not required. With reasonable prices and just a couple of minutes walk from the entrance of Universal Studios park, I highly recommend dining at NBC Sports Grill and Brew. It’s not only a great meal, but it is an incredibly themed experience you are sure to enjoy.
