Recently, Universal Orlando Resort announced the next original concept in a line of unique venues to come to Universal CityWalk – a delectable dining experience that combines chocolate and savory dishes with a fun atmosphere. Today, Universal is going to let us in on the story behind this new, full service restaurant.
The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium & Savory Feast Kitchen is the next evolution of dining at Universal CityWalk, following a groundbreaking two years of unprecedented growth that includes other original concepts from the Universal team like NBC Sports Grill & Brew, Antojitos Authentic Mexican Food, Vivo Italian Kitchen and Red Oven Pizza Bakery.
Since Universal started this project in 2013, they knew they wanted to do something with chocolate – something that would elevate everyone’s favorite confection to the next level. The Toothsome Chocolate Emporium does just that by combining the incredible storytelling from Universal Orlando’s Creative and Entertainment teams with the high quality service and delectable dishes of our Food & Beverage team.
As they looked for inspiration, the Steampunk era really stood out with its rebellious spirit of creation and industrial influences. After delving deeper into the genre and its design elements, Universal found the structural shapes and rich color palettes to evoke exactly the type of experience that they wanted to create for their guests. It was the perfect fit.
Even from afar, you’ll see the Steampunk influence with working gears and smokestacks. Once you step inside, hosts dressed in alternative fashions will greet you. The sights and sounds of brass gadgetry and manufacturing will immediately surround you.
And of course, you’ll be able to indulge in all of the delectable creations – from the decadent milkshakes to the eclectic savory dishes, there’s plenty to choose from. I tried to think of my favorite menu item to share with you, but it was all so good – We can’t possibly choose just one! You’ll have to discover your favorite later this year.
By the way, you may have noticed we’ve used a different name for the new restaurant than what was originally announced. As part of the creative process, they are always refining the experience we create for Universal guests and how they talk about it. Universal Orlando realized they wanted more focus to the name. And so they landed on making “emporium” more prominent because that word conveys what thry want to create for guests – a place filled with a fun atmosphere and a large variety of food and retail opportunities.
